Microsoft's $200 iPhone trade-in program goes live

Just in time for the holidays, the company will buy your used iPhone 4S or iPhone 5, in the hopes of getting customers to pick up a Windows Phone.

(Credit: Josh Miller)

Microsoft wants to pay for your old iPhone. After reports earlier this week of Microsoft offering at least $200 in credit for customers' used iPhones, the deal is now official.
The deal is only good for newer-model iPhones -- the 4S and 5, in "gently used" condition -- and is an expansion of an existing promotion that lets customers trade in their iPads for a $200 minimum gift card. That deal runs until October 27.
The new promotion will run at Microsoft stores until November 3, an obvious attempt to lure iPhone users to the Windows Phone camp just before the holidays -- although the credit, in the form of a gift card, will be good for anything in the store.

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Use handwriting to input text on Android with MyScript Stylus

Ready to try out yet another new keyboard on Android? This one supports 54 languages, and all you need is your fingertip or a stylus to write messages and have them converted to text in real-time.

(Credit: Photo by Nicole Cozma)

When MyScript Calculator by Vision Objects landed on the Google Play store, the handwriting recognition was said to be top-notch. Taking their technology a step further, the company released MyScript Notes Mobile, which lets you handwrite words directly onto the screen and have them converted to text.
Their most recent app takes the same handwriting functionality of the Notes Mobile app and lets you use it system-wide on your Android device, replacing the keyboard. You don't have to use a stylus to do the writing, though it might be a bit faster and more precise. Ready to try it on your device? Here's how to get started:

Step 1: Install a copy of the MyScript Stylus Beta from the Google Play Store.
Right now, the app is free. However, it is in beta, and could either remain free or go the same direction as the MyScript Notes Mobile app ($7.94) by adding a price tag. In other words, try it while it has the best price.

(Credit: Screenshot by Nicole Cozma) 

 

Step 2: After the install, tap on the MyScript Stylus icon in your app drawer to go through the enabling process. You'll be prompted to download the language packs of your choosing, and then be given a quick link to your Settings area to enable the keyboard.

The MyScript Stylus keyboard in action.

(Credit: Screenshot by Nicole Cozma) 

 

Step 3: Watch the gesture video. I could list all of the gesture shortcuts this keyboard offers to keep your writing quick and easy, but it's probably a better idea if you watch its 90-second video demonstrating some of them.

MyScript Stylus supports 54 languages (you can see the list here) and is a great alternative to traditional keyboards when one-handed input is needed. Try it out and leave your thoughts in the comments.

(Via AndroidPolice)

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Those cool iOS 7 features? Android does that too

You could say iOS 7 is revolutionary -- in the world of Apple. For several iterations now, Android users have had access to some of iOS 7's most heralded features, leaving some avid fanboys going pfffftttttt.
But maybe you've taken Android's offerings for granted. Maybe you overlooked these now-glorified features. Maybe it took the release of iOS 7 to appreciate just how plentiful your Android phone really is.
So, it's time take a little inventory. At the risk of igniting a flame war, let's look at iOS 7's best features, on Android.

1. Control Center

One of iOS 7's biggest achievements, Control Center, finally lets iPhone owners do things like toggle Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, adjust brightness, and control music playback. There are also shortcuts to the flashlight, clock, calculator, and camera. All it takes is a swipe up from the bottom edge of any screen. Yep, got it: Android users can access their own "control center" with a swipe down from the top of any screen, with access to the aforementioned settings shortcuts, and brightness control. When music's playing, playback controls appear as a static notification.
As for the app shortcuts, 1Tap QuickBar will do the trick. With it, you can place any app icons in your notification shade, plus other shortcuts, like a new text to a favorite contact or even a direct dial. Check out this quick tutorial to get started.

2. AirDrop

Available on the iPhone 5 and later, this tool lets users share things like photos and videos as long as they're close by. Checkmate: Introduced in Android 4.0, Android Beam utilizes NFC and Bluetooth to accomplish the same task. Maps, photos, Web links, and contacts can all be transferred by holding two NFC-enabled phones back to back. Sometimes, the connection is finicky, but in my brief experiences, it's done the job.
Samsung offers its own take on Android Beam called S Beam (video). The data transfer technology works similarly, but instead uses NFC to pair the two devices initially, then transitions to a Wi-Fi Direct connection to complete the transfer. Translation: faster and more reliable.
If neither of these built-in solutions are getting you excited, an app like Bump offers a more user-friendly solution. The only caveat, of course, is that the other needs to have the app installed, too.

3. Camera features

iOS 7 gave the camera a revamp, tweaking the interface and adding preprocess features like cropping and filters. Burst mode was also granted to the iPhone 5 and later, while iPhone 5S users got slo-mo. Android's options: This tit for tat is a little messier, because the Android interface -- especially the camera app -- varies so much from brand to brand. Add the endless variation in hardware and things get really complicated.
So, let's focus on iOS 7's hallmark features: burst mode and slo-mo. Some phones, like the HTC One and the Galaxy S4 already have these features, but let's assume your phone has none.
With over 1,000,000 installations, Fast Burst Camera Lite is an Android favorite, letting you take 30 photos per second on newer devices, and 5-10 photos per second on low-end devices. For slo-mo video, you won't find a reliable app that records in slo-mo, but some apps like AndroVid Video Trimmer, let you convert videos to slow motion after they're shot.

4. Fully featured multitasking

iPhone users could always double-tap the home button to switch apps, but with iOS 7 comes true multitasking, including an app preview and the ability to force-close an app with a swipe. Can do: Fully featured multitasking was always an outstanding Android feature, letting users switch to or force-close apps by long-pressing the home button. Better yet, some Android versions let users get to system controls using the same gesture.

5. Notification Center

Widgets are nowhere to be seen, but iOS 7 makes a marked effort to give users more access to at-a-glance information with improvements to the Notification Center. Now, the pull-down menu features three tabs: Today, All [Notifications], and Missed [events]. It's customizable, easy on the eyes, and conveniently accessed no matter what you're doing. Got it: Android's notification shade covers some of these things, but it really is helpful to have all time-sensitive information in one interface. Enter Google Now. Depending on your Android phone, Google Now can often be accessed with a long-press shortcut. Once prompted, you'll see reminders, scheduled events, traffic information, sports scores, and lots (lots) more. It's highly customizable and far more robust that Notification Center's offerings.
If you're not already using Google Now, give it a go. Read this primer to get started.

6. Audio calls over FaceTime

In a less-touted update, audio-only FaceTime calls were added, letting users call friends and family over 4G or Wi-Fi, without draining wireless minutes. It's a money-saver, especially for those international calls. The only caveat is that the recipient will have to have an iOS device, too. There's an app for that: Though some carriers like T-Mobile offer Wi-Fi calling at no additional charge, subscribers to other carriers will have to get creative. Luckily there's a library of apps to choose from.
Skype, one of the most popular and established VoIP apps is a first choice for many thanks to its ubiquity -- you can often count on friends and family having it (or at least being willing to download it.) Beyond Skype, Tango is an Android favorite, lets you make calls, text, and even video chat for free. Like Skype, the recipient will have to have Tango downloaded (because -- get it? -- it takes two!)

7. Safari gets smarter

The iPhone's stock browser got an impressive overhaul, adding a unified search bar, tab management with previews, private browsing, and even a Do Not Track privacy option. In a less-advertised update, Safari also lets you see which of your Twitter friends shared the page you're currently viewing. Chrome does it: Well, almost. Safari's Twitter integration is pretty darn cool, and not yet available on Android, but Chrome covers just about everything else. So, ditch your Android's stock browser, and let Chrome take over, giving you tab management with page previews, Incognito tabs, a combined search and address bar, and that Do Not Track option.
Beyond that, Chrome also lets you view desktop versions of pages, manage bandwidth, and even sync tabs with your desktop.

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Samsung's teased curved phone may not be what you think

Can't wait to own a phone you can bend? Hold your horses. That technology isn't here quite yet.

Flexible displays like this one from LG are exciting future tech.

(Credit: Nick Hide) 

 

If Samsung's reveal of a forthcoming smartphone with a curved screen sends shivers down your spine and visions of bendable handsets dancing through your head, you may want to rein in your excitement.

While Samsung (and LG and Nokia and Apple) are all experimenting with kinetic displays that move when you bend them, you should prepare yourself for this phone to feature a contoured display instead.
The difference? A screen whose glass topper has been molded in a subtle stationary arc, rather than one you can wiggle.
There's very definitely a precedent for curved displays that give your phone face a slight smile. Samsung's own Galaxy Nexus S had one, and so does the in-development YotaPhone, which uses formed Gorilla Glass 3 as its cover glass material.
Since Samsung already knows how to do shallow screen contours, it's likely that this new device, slated for an October unveiling, will return to the theme of fitting its face to your cheek. In addition to curved displays being more comfortable to hold up to your ear for longer conversation (yes, some of us still do that), the design also serves an aesthetic purpose of standing out among competitors, and encouraging more contours in other parts of the phone. In other words: no more boring box of a phone.

And as for truly flexible displays? They're still a ways off. Creating molded glass is one thing, but manufacturing materials both flexible enough and strong enough to move without breaking is a major feat.
Even the pliable Corning Willow Glass isn't the whole solution, especially since it's meant to go underneath display material (like AMOLED or LCD) and not on top.
The bottom line is this: there are still major hurdles in engineering and materials that the industry needs to clear before we start seeing smartphones that bend when you do.

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Amazon unveils a trio of new Kindle Fire tablets starting at $139, shipping October 18 (hands-on)

Amazon wants to control all your media consumption, and with its new tablets and ambitious software features, it may just succeed. The company has officially unveiled its new line of Kindle Fire tablets for 2013. The three new tablets consists of the redesigned Kindle Fire HD (2013), the Kindle Fire HDX 7, and Kindle Fire HDX 8.9.
Preorders for all three are available now. Look for the Wi-Fi-only version of the HDX 7 to ship on October 18, with the 4G variant coming November 14. The Wi-Fi-only Fire HDX 8.9 ships on November 7 with the 4G version coming December 10. The newly designed 7-inch Kindle Fire HD ships on October 2.
The three tablets -- along with the new Fire OS -- are incredibly ambitious (check below to find out why), but until we spend more than just a few minutes with them, we won't know for sure how well they live up to their potential.


Pricing
As with last year's stable, 2013's Kindle Fires will display full screen ads on the lock screen. Buyers can completely turn off the ads by paying an extra $15.
To make the pricing as clear as possible I've thrown into this handy chart below.

	Amazon Kindle Fire HDX 7	Amazon Kindle Fire HDX 8.9	Amazon Kindle Fire HD 7
Wi-Fi (8GB)	Not available	Not available	$139
Wi-Fi (16GB)	$229	$379	$169
Wi-Fi (32GB)	$269	$429	Not available
Wi-Fi (64GB)	$309	$479	Not available
4G (16GB)	$329	$479	Not available
4G (32GB)	$369	$529	Not available
4G (64GB)	$409	$579	Not available

New design
Each new kindle Fire gets a new design for 2013. Gone is the subtle curvature of last year's models in favor of a much more angular backside that maintains a clear space between the speakers and your coffee table when laid down flat.
At 0.82 pound, the Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 is the lightest large-screen tablet I've yet heard of, and posts an even lighter load than the Sony Xperia Tablet Z's 1.06 pounds.
The power and volume rocker on each are no longer flush with the device and are now much more easily depressible.

That more angular design I spoke of.

(Credit: David Carnoy)

 

Updated specs
The Kindle Fire HDX 7-inch features a 1,920x1,200-pixel-resolution screen (323ppi), whereas the 8.9 gets an even more impressive 2,560x1,600-pixel-resolution screen, with a 339ppi. Amazon also says to expect 100 percent sRGB color accuracy, reduced glare, dynamic image contrast -- which may be a first in a tablet -- and a higher brightness.
Each of the new HDX tablets houses a 2.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 CPU and an Adreno 330 graphics processor. Essentially, this means fast, fast, fast gaming performance, as the 800 is no joke when it comes to frame rates, even on phones. That, coupled with 2GB of RAM, and the Fire HDX might be the most graphically advanced portable device yet when it releases later this year.
Amazon says to expect up to 11 hours of mixed-use battery life and 17 hours when reading. While reading, the CPU goes into a low power state and awaits more stressful tasks before powering on again.

With its updated specs, the Fire HDX should be able to run any of those apps as well or possibly better than any Android tablet.

(Credit: David Carnoy)

 

For my money, you don't get any better than the 2012 Kindle Fire HD tablets when it comes to sound quality, and fortunately, the HDX will inherit this oft-overlooked, but much-appreciated tablet feature.
Each HDX includes a front-facing HD camera, but only the 8.9 gets a rear-facing 8-megapixel camera, with an LED flash.
New Origami-style covers will be available for each tablet; they can be configured to stand the tablets up in portrait or landscape orientations.

Origami in effect, in a cover, on a tablet.

(Credit: David Carnoy)

 

Get your 'Mojito' on
With new hardware also comes new software, and Amazon is keen on stuffing as many new features into its Fire OS 3.0 -- christened, "Mojito" -- as it can.
Amazon has plans to significantly improve the Kindle Fire OS with software optimizations across the board, including Goodreads integration, and better enterprise support, but let's talk about the major updates that are coming.


Mayday!
Accessed from the quick setting menu, the Mayday button is built-in and nearly immediate tech support like we've never seen before. According to Amazon, after tapping the button, a live tech support representative will appear on your screen within 15 seconds. The rep can draw on your screen, take complete control of your tablet, or simply coach you through difficult times. With the tablet, that is.

The service will be available 24-7, 365. Hopefully, Amazon has figured out an effective way of weeding out false calls from those of us simply looking for some extra company on a lonely Saturday night.


Amazon Prime videos, offline!
Amazon Prime videos can now not only be streamed, but also downloaded to your HDX device for viewing when you don't have an Internet connection. You know, like on long trips overseas or when visiting your cousins out in the sticks


X-Ray updates
X-Ray is now available for music. Expect synchronized lyrics that let you follow along with a song, even when offline. Also, X-Ray for Movies and TV now displays the name of the song playing in a given scene.

The 8-megapixel back camera. Curiously, it's only available on the larger 8.9.

(Credit: David Carnoy)

 

Character backstory info will appear as the appropriate actor appears on screen. Bloopers and additional trivia are also new.

Second-screen action
You can kick your video content from your new Kindle Fire to your PlayStation 3 (and later this year, PS4 and Samsung Smart TVs; Amazon made no mention of other devices, however). But, instead of simply mirroring your tablet, the Kindle Fire will be freed up to browse the Web, play a game, or whatever else you desire to do with it -- you can even leave the room with it -- while your video content plays on your TV with X-Ray info.
According to Amazon, the quality of the video will not be dependent on the tablet's processor load or connection.

Clearly thinner than 2012's Fire HD line.

(Credit: David Carnoy)

 

Kicking your content to a larger screen is becoming quite the common feature in tablets, but Amazon appears to take the concept one impressively useful step forward.


Hands-on with the new Fire HDXes
In some ways, the 8.9 HDX is the more impressive device because it feels very light for its size -- and it's thin.
Both the 7- and 8.9-inch HD screens seemed very crisp, with excellent color saturation and good contrast. Most importantly, they seemed fast -- significantly more responsive than previous versions.

When you use the Mayday button, the tech support rep on the other end can coach you through any feature.

(Credit: David Carnoy)

 

Amazon has also updated the UI. There's still the carousel view, but there's also the grid view and the left-hand nav view. It's built on Jelly Bean, so you could say Amazon made it more Android-like. You can also close out apps and see what's running in the background.
The Mayday feature is a key differentiating point. There's also the aforementioned second-screen feature. It's all done through the cloud and is pretty cool.
Amazon says the Silk browser is improved, but I didn't get a chance to test it. Also, battery life is better by an hour. The Origami cases are thin and nice but starting at $60, are fairly pricey.

The HDX 7-inch only comes with a front-facing camera for video messaging.

(Credit: David Carnoy)

 

The entry-level Kindle Fire HD performs the same as the previous Fire HD, but its design is in line with the rest of the devices. No camera, but $139 is a great price.
The backs of the devices do attract fingerprints, as you can see from some of the pictures here. There's also some glare on the screens, though Amazon says they have the same lamination feature (no gap), which is supposed to cut down on the glare.
Overall, I was most impressed by the 8.9 because it so much thinner and lighter. From a design standpoint the 7-inch doesn't seem like a big leap, though I did like the button placement for the volume controls and power button, and it feels pretty good in one hand.


First thoughts
I'm impressed. Well, as much as one can be impressed by a specs and features list of devices he's never touched -- David Carnoy wrote the hands-on portion above.
Amazon appears to be firing -- pun intended -- on all cylinders with its new devices. The prices are low, the specs are high-end, and the feature set is incredibly ambitious, especially Mayday and Second screen.
Could this be Amazon's first big step towards taking over your living room? Maybe. If nothing else, the company has shown that it is at least attempting to move one step closer to creating that near-perfect all-in-one media device most of us seem to want.
Everything listed is no doubt impressive, but the proof will be in how well it's all implemented and working once you get it into your home. The company's devices have a pretty good track record for living up to hype, so I'm willing to give Amazon the benefit of the doubt for now.

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Sony's SmartWatch 2 is revamped, refreshed, yet faces stiff competition (hands-on)

Sony's first SmartWatch didn't quite live up to our expectations. However, with the introduction of the SmartWatch 2, Sony has made plenty of improvements. These include a refreshed water-resistant design, easy setup with NFC technology, and yes a brighter screen so you can actually view it outdoors.
But with Samsung officially jumping into the smartwatch game by unveiling the Galaxy Gear, and a rumored Apple wrist gadget in the works, the Sony Smartwatch 2 will likely enter a pitched sales battle when it hits the market in September. Sony's updated timepiece will also be challenged by plucky wearable tech upstarts like Pebble and Hot Watch. Read on to find out if the Sony Smart Watch 2 has enough to really impress.

Design
Like the steel Samsung Galaxy Gear, Sony decided to go for the luxurious look of metal. The SmartWatch 2 is made of aluminum, unlike the plastic Pebble. This gives it a nice, premium feel that the Pebble lacks. It features a removable 24mm wristband, so you can swap in other standard bands to customize to your liking. A big, round power button is found on the side, much like the power button that you will find on Sony Mobile's 2013 Xperia lineup.

The very identifiable Xperia power button makes an appearance on the watch.

(Credit: Aloysius Low)

 

Like the original SmartWatch, the SmartWatch 2 features a 1.6-inch touch-screen display, but unlike its predecessor’s OLED screen, the SmartWatch 2 uses a transflective LCD panel instead. This should give it good visibility outdoors, something not possible with the first Smartwatch, a massive design oversight for a timepiece.
In terms of screen resolution, the watch has 220x176 pixels, less than the Galaxy Gear's slightly larger but sharper 1.63-inch 320x320-pixel OLED screen.
Physically, the SmartWatch 2 is slightly larger and heavier compared with the original. However, we don't think the difference is noticeable -- at 23.5g, you'll barely feel the 8g difference over the first SmartWatch. The Gear though tips the scales at a much heftier 73.8 grams. Of course the Qualcomm Toq is a monster that dwarfs all smartwatch comers.
Another key improvement in the SmartWatch 2 is its water-resistant properties, meaning it's protected against accidental spills and splashes. Be advised that you can't take it into the shower with you, though we don't see why you need to read e-mail while shampooing your hair. You also can't go swimming with this watch.
Instead of the custom charging port used by the first SmartWatch, the SmartWatch 2 comes with a standard Micro-USB port. This makes it easier to charge the watch, especially now that Micro-USB cables are readily available.

The SmartWatch 2 can be charged with any Micro-USB cable.

(Credit: Aloysius Low)

 

Features
When the Sony Smartwatch first launched it was expensive ($129.99), costing almost as much as a powerful smartphone. The problem was, the gizmo demonstrated poor functionality out of the box.
For example, you needed to install multiple apps yourself to enable basic features such as notifications from calls or messages. Devices running early software also suffered from frequent crashes and spontaneous reboots.
Worst of all, rebooting and subsequent loss of Bluetooth connection between watch and phone resulted in the watch resetting its internal clock. That's right, the watch would default back to displaying "12:00" in blinking lights like an old-school VCR.
To be fair, Sony took steps to shore up the first Smartwatch's issues through software updates. Still, it was a long way from what we'd call an elegant user experience.
The company claims that this watch will be way easier to set up than its predecessor. Specifically, the SmartWatch 2 has built-in near-field communication capability, which lets you pair with compatible handsets via Bluetooth simply by tapping them together.
Also, after a proper phone/watch link occurs, your Android handset will prompt you to download Sony's SmartWatch app. From there you'll be able to select the various apps you'd like to use. Previously you had to pair devices manually, then search for and install everything separately -- a real pain.
Keep in mind you'll only be getting an alarm and timer app (in addition to the watch faces that come preinstalled) unless you add more functionality.

Here's a digital clock face that you can switch to.

(Credit: Aloysius Low)

 

That said, Sony has made the SmartWatch 2 compatible with apps from the first SmartWatch, so it can run apps such as Runtastic, Twitter, and Facebook.
Surprisingly, the new device doesn't use the latest Bluetooth iteration, version 4.0. Instead it runs on Bluetooth 3.0, which does not have the fancy Bluetooth low-energy protocol the 4.0 release offers.
Of course Sony is already claiming a three- to four-day battery life for its high-tech watch, the same it did for its predecessor. As we learned with that device and the Pebble, it's wise to keep a charger handy or plug it in daily or you run the risk of running out of juice. By comparison Samsung claims a 24-hour run time for its Galaxy Gear product.
Lastly, the SmartWatch works with almost any Android handset, but not iOS as well, which the Pebble can tackle. The Galaxy Gear, however, is locked down to operating with the new Samsung Galaxy Note 3, at least for now.

Outlook
Due out sometime this month, the SmartWatch 2 looks set to tap into the growing interest in wearable tech. The trouble is with heavy-hitters like Samsung and maybe even Apple poised to enter this market, this space is about to get very crowded. That's especially true of a product category in which consumers may not even be interested.
Other wild cards like the Pebble with its small but fanatic user base and the uniquely capable Hot Watch, which boasts wild gesture controls could tempt buyers away from Sony as well

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How To Fix Playstore No Connection Problem

It's a very common problem in most android devices the "No Connection" when accessing Playstore. The main reason of this problem is when we installed the Freedom app. This application will add this line to our android's system host file 127.143.153.9 android.clients.google.com mtalk.google.com that prevents us to access playstore. In this tutorial, I will show you how to fix this very common problem :)

Requirements:
1. Your android phone must be rooted.
2. File Browser (In my case, I used Solid Explorer, but you may download this Root Explorer).

Instructions:
1. Open Root Explorer and go to System Root.

 



















2. Open system folder, then open etc folder.

 



















3. Browse the etc folder then look for hosts file.

4. Open the hosts file, then you will see the following lines.
127.0.0.1 localhost
127.143.153.9 android.clients.google.com mtalk.google.com

5. Once you already opened the hosts file, all you need to do is to put comment in this line 127.143.153.9 android.clients.google.com mtalk.google.com. How to put comment? :D Add # before 127.143.153.9. Your hosts file will now look like on below screenshot. Anyway, you may safely remove the line 127.143.153.9 android.clients.google.com mtalk.google.com :)


 
 

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Cherry Mobile Flare S100 ICS (Ice Cream Sandwich) to Jelly Bean Upgrade

I will show you the complete tutorial on how to upgrade your Cherry Mobile Flare (S100) from Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS)  to Jelly Bean (JB).

Do this at your own RISK! (This procedure works 100% on my device).

Requirements: Windows XP 32 bit or Windows 7 (32 or 64 bit) with all tools run as Admin.

Download all the required files:
1. RoadKill’s Disk Image
2. All-in-One-Files (Updated 11/25/2013)
3. Stock Jelly Bean 4.1.2

1. (Backing up your ICS)

1.1 Backup your ICS using Roadkill.
1.1.1 Turn off your Flare, then press Volume down and power button at the same time. once you see the “ENTRY QPST DOWNLOAD”, open roadkill and click on Store Image Tab, select the disk with 3.61GB, click browse and select the location where you want your backup to be saved, and click start. Once finish proceed to next step.

2. (Writing)
2.1. Write your IMEI1, IMEI2, Wi-Fi Mac, and Serial Number (S/N) in a piece of tissue paper.  XD
2.1.1. To do that, turn on your Wi-Fi, and go to Settings > About Phone > Status. If some are missing just dial *#0000# in dial pad.
2.2. Extract all the filesyou downloaded. Make sure you remember the location of the file. 

3. (Jelly Bean Installation)

3.1 Backup NVRam
3.1.1 Run EMMC_DownLoad_V1.2.3.exe ,(Check Download Boot Loader for 1st run)
3.1.2 Turn device ON (make sure USB Debugging is enable)
3.1.3 Connect phone thru microUSB cable (Note: Make sure there are no other USB Modem or phone connected to your computer except for Flare)
3.1.4 Click BackUp_NV.
3.1.5 Wait until back up is successful. 

 










3.2. Download BP Firmware (“ENTRY QPST DOWNLOAD” Mode)
3.2.1. Run EMMC_DownLoad_V1.2.3.exe. Click SELPATH select “BP Firmware” Folder.
3.2.2. Connect phone thru a microUSB cable. Check Device Manager for Com Port #.
3.2.3 Look for "Qualcomm HS-Usb Diagnostics 9006" type the Comport # in EMMC Download Box. Click Download.
3.2.4. Wait until download is successful (Usually it takes 6-12sec). Remove battery. (Do not Close EMMC Download. then proceed to next Step )

3.3. Download AP Firmware (Fastboot Mode) or (Green Screen Mode)
3.3.1. Run QUALFAST2.0.5.exe. Click SELPATH, select AP firmware (“Stock JB Rom” Folder),Check Format Card &Userdata
3.3.2. Press Power button and Volume Up simultaneously. (Fastboot Mode) "Green Screen"
3.3.3. Click OK to start download then connect phone thru a microUSB cable.
3.3.4. Wait until download is successful. Remove battery.
 

3.4. Restore NVRam Backup
3.4.1. Run EMMC_DownLoad_V1.2.3.exe.
3.4.2. Turn device ON. (make sure USB Debugging is enable)
3.4.3. Click Restore_NV. Browse and select bak.qcn file. Connect phone thru microUSB cable.
3.4.4. Wait until qcn restore is successful. (your IMEI 2 is Null &Wifi Mac Address is set to default. you need to write it again)

4. (IMEI 2 & Wi-Fi MAC Address Writing)
 
4.1. IMEI 2 &Wifi Mac address Writing
4.1.1. Turn device ON (make sure USB Debugging is enable)
4.1.2. Locate your modem com port number (Go to Device Manager >Right-click “Tianyu HS-USB Android Modem 9025”> Properties > Advanced Tab > Advanced Port Settings > COM Port # (Ex. 10))
4.1.3. Open Qualcomm_Modem_Tools_V1.1.2.exe and type com port #
4.1.4. Write all your backup code, then click Write button. (In my case I have re-entered my IMEI1, IMEI2, S/N (Serial Number), Wi-Fi MAC)

Note: Every after successful entry of IMEI, the phone automatically restarts.

Restart Device. Wait until it boot perfectly
 
5. Flash the BuglessFlashable via Recovery Stock JB ROM (already rooted) 

5.1. You know already how to do that.

Credits to all sources..!!


Credits to Alkane, Philip, Paul Caliva, Heartles Bdeck, Reymar of S100 And Cherry Mobile.

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How To Root Your Cherry Mobile 2.0

In this tutorial, I will show you an easiest way of rooting your Cherry Mobile 2.0

Requirements:
1. Your Cherry Mobile 2.0 (duh!)
2. Computer/Laptop
3. USB connector
4. Root Explorer
5. Root Master
6. Superuser 3.1.3

Instructions:
1. Download Root Explorer. You may download it at Google Play.

2. Download Root Master.

3. Unpack and install Root Master on your PC.
4. Connect your CM Flare 2.0 on your PC or laptop using the USB connector. Install drivers of your mobile
5. Run RootMaster and press first button on first screen

 













6. After this click the center button on all windows
7. Your mobile is rooted - Reboot your mobile
8. Close the RootMaster
9. Install Root Explorer and delete superuser.apk
10. This release of superuser.apk is not english
11. Delete or replace your superuser.apk in /system/app
12. Unpack Superuser.apk from zip and copy to /system/app folder
13. Reply yes to replace your apk Superuser.apk
14. If you delete superuser.apk reinstall Only superuser from Zip

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Fifteen years on—and we’re just getting started

Google Search is turning 15. Remember what it was like to search in 1998? You’d sit down and boot up your bulky computer, dial up on your squawky modem, type in some keywords, and get 10 blue links to websites that had those words. It seemed like magic (and it was way way faster than card catalogs and microfiche!).

The world has changed so much since then: billions of people have come online, the web has grown exponentially, and now you can ask any question on the powerful little device in your pocket. You can explore the world with the Knowledge Graph, ask questions aloud with voice search, and get info before you even need to ask with Google Now.

But 15 years on, we’re just getting started. We want to help you make more of each day. Here are a few of the latest features you can try out:

Comparisons and filters in the Knowledge Graph

We keep expanding features of the Knowledge Graph so it can answer more questions—even those that don’t have a simple answer. Let’s say you want to get your daughter excited about a visit to the Met. You can pull up your phone and say to Google: “Tell me about Impressionist artists.” You’ll see who the artists are, and you can dive in to learn more about each of them and explore their most famous works. If you want to switch to Abstract artists, you can do that really easily with our new filter tool:

Or let’s say you want to compare two things: How much saturated fat is in butter versus olive oil? Now you can simply tell Google: “Compare butter with olive oil.” Our new comparison tool gives you new insights by letting you compose your own answer:

You can try this for some other things you might be curious about, such as dog breeds (“compare pekingese vs. chihuahua”) or celestial objects (“compare earth vs. neptune”)—and we’ll keep adding more.

Get things done with Google across your devices

Having a “conversation” with Google should also be more natural. Ideally, you wouldn’t need to pull out your phone or tap buttons to use Google. We’re not quite there yet, but you can already do a lot with just your voice. In the next couple of weeks, you’ll be able to download a new version of the Google Search app on iPhone and iPad. With this update, you can get notifications across your devices. So if you tell your Nexus 7, “OK Google. Remind me to buy olive oil at Safeway,” when you walk into the store with your iPhone, you’ll get a reminder. We’ll also show you Google Now notifications so you’re not late to your cooking class.

A simpler, more unified design on mobile devices

You’ll also notice a new look and feel for Google Search and ads on your phones and tablets. It’s cleaner and simpler, optimized for touch, with results clustered on cards so you can focus on the answers you’re looking for.

We’ll keep improving Google Search so it does a little bit more of the hard work for you. This means giving you the best possible answers, making it easy to have a conversation and helping out before you even have to ask. Hopefully, we’ll save you a few minutes of hassle each day. So keep asking Google tougher questions—it keeps us on our toes! After all, we’re just getting started. 

Source : Inside Search

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11 ways to trick Android into using less data

With expensive tiered data plans, it's easy to hit your limit. Follow this guide to cut back on data usage (and avoid overage charges). 

 

(Credit: Josh Miller) 

 

Apps are moving to the cloud. Streaming services like Netflix and Spotify are big. And just about every one of us is addicted to social networking.
There's just one thing standing in the way: your data plan.
With unlimited plans dwindling, most smartphone users are stuck with tiered options that sometimes make data usage more stressful than fun. (Anyone who's been hit with an exorbitant overage charge knows this feeling.)
But if you're on Android, you've got a little more wiggle room, thanks to plenty of data-restricting settings. With the proper configurations, you'll find yourself using data at a much slower rate -- so much so, perhaps, that you could even step down a tier.

Tame hungry apps

Whether you're actively using them or not, apps love to eat up data. They're checking for updates, running ads, and refreshing your user content in the background. The good intentions are there, but most times, the conveniences these practices bring don't outweigh the depleted data reserves. It's time to tame those apps.

Update apps on Wi-Fi only
Head to the Google Play store and tap Menu > Settings > Auto-update apps. Here, be sure that "Auto-update apps over Wi-Fi only" is selected. You also have the option to choose "Do not auto-update apps," but it's less preferable, since you'll have to remember to update apps manually.

(Credit: Screenshot by Sharon Vaknin)

 

Configure in-app data settings
To give you a fluid experience, many apps ping servers in the background to keep their content updated. For instance, Google+ backs up your photos and videos as they're captured, while Mint can be configured to refresh banking data.
These conveniences are great, but they come at a cost, so dive into the app settings and disable the data-sucking options you don't absolutely need.

Restrict background data
Even apps that don't allow you to fine-tune data settings could still be loading background data. In Ice Cream Sandwich and later versions of Android, one way to find out which ones are guilty is to go to Settings > Data Usage, and scroll down to reveal a list of apps with accompanying data usage stats.
Then, tap an app to view its usage data, and take a look at the two numbers next to the pie chart. "Foreground" refers to the data used when you're actively using the app, while "Background" reflects the data used when the app is running in the background.
If you notice an app is using too much background data, scroll down to the bottom and check "Restrict background data." Just note that this setting overrides any conflicting app behavior (like an app that would otherwise update your bank account info every few hours).

Take advantage of preloading and caching

As data constraints become a reality for most smartphone owners, developers are including options that make their apps less demanding. Don't let these options go unnoticed -- they'll save you heaps.
Preload streaming-app content
As we become increasingly frugal about cellular data usage, more apps offer caching (or preloading), letting you download content on Wi-Fi and view it at any later time. Spotify, for example, lets users download playlists. Similarly, YouTube preloads subscriptions and videos on your Watch Later list.

(Credit: Screenshot by Sharon Vaknin) 

 

The majority of apps that offer preloading are the ones that need it most. So use it. Head into the settings menu of any app (especially streaming-media apps), to see if the option is available. Alternatively, you might find that an app allows you to lower streaming quality while on a cellular data connection.

Download files on Wi-Fi only
Unless you absolutely have to, refrain from downloading songs, movies, or large files while using a cellular data connection. It's common sense, but be sure to do any downloading while you're on Wi-Fi.

Cache maps before traveling
With its new offline feature, Google Maps now allows you to cache maps. It takes some time to download them, and does require a chunk of storage space, but once a map is downloaded, you'll be able to view and navigate it without using your data connection. Here's how.

Check sync settings

With automated syncing, Google makes sure your accounts are updated any time a change is made. Unfortunately for your data plan (and battery life) that means your phone is constantly pinging the server to find out if new content needs to be downloaded (or uploaded.) There are a couple ways to temper this.

Fine-tune sync settings
During the initial phone configuration, you probably opted into account syncing. By default, everything is set to sync, including things like photos, the Play Store, and other Google apps. You don't necessarily need all these items syncing -- especially data-heavy ones like photos.
To adjust sync options, head to Settings > Accounts > Google, and select an account. Here, uncheck the boxes next to the items that don't absolutely need to be synced. Repeat the same process for other accounts.
After that, you can manually sync accounts by visiting their respective apps.

Temporarily switch off sync
Going out for the night? Sitting at your desk? Prevent your phone from unnecessarily syncing data by disabling syncing, either from the notification bar, or by going to Settings > Data Usage > Menu > uncheck "Auto-sync data."

Minimize browser data usage

If Web browsing is the data-hogging culprit, it's no surprise. Some Web sites have yet to be optimized for mobile, while others eat into data with bulky advertisements.

(Credit: Screenshot by Sharon Vaknin) 

 

The simple answer to these woes is data compression. With it, a Web page is first compressed in the cloud before being sent to your phone, significantly reducing the download size.
There are some drawbacks, however. First, even though your data is encrypted and anonymized, the browser must still process your activity while it compresses it. Not everyone is comfortable with that.
Secondly, sometimes compression means sacrificing quality, leaving you with slightly altered Web pages.
Even so, the option can be worthwhile for anyone on a tiered plan (or times when you're on a slow connection). Opera, a much-loved browser, is one such app that offers compression. Just head to the Settings menu to enable it. After some use, Opera will tell you just how much data you saved.
Alternatively, Chrome Beta includes a handy new data compression feature, but you'll have to enable it. To do so, head to Settings > Bandwidth Management > Reduce data usage. Going forward, you can revisit that settings window to see how much data you're saving.

Call in for help

If you've given it all you got and you're still breaching your data limits, it's time to call in for help.

Monitor data usage
One of the most useful Android features is the Data Usage tool. With it, you can view your monthly activity, see which apps demand the most megabytes, and configure usage warnings. Find out how to use it with our step-by-step guide.
Alternatively, Onavo Count offers a similar solution, but steps it up by including a widget, letting you keep an eye on real-time data usage at any moment.

Compress all data activity
As an absolute last resort, Onavo Extend takes its Count app a step further by actively compressing almost all incoming data. For instance, e-mails are simplified, Web pages are compressed server-side, and photos are optimized.
Keep this option in your app drawer, should you find yourself running low on data.

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How to manage your Google Now Reminders

Using Google Now's Reminders feature is convenient, but managing a set reminder isn't. Here's what you need to know.

 

(Credit: Jason Cipriani) 

 

Within just a short period of time, Google released two updates that show it really wants people to start using Google Now and its Reminders feature. The first update to Google Keep added the option to set reminders for notes, which tie into Google Now. The second update to Google Now itself adds the ability to set reminders for your favorite artists and TV shows.
Google Now Reminders has a lot of potential, but currently the biggest issue with it is the lack of easily accessible editing. Let's say you set a reminder to get alerted when there's new episodes of a TV show, but later you change your mind. How do you delete the reminder? Or if you set a reminder in Google Now -- not Keep -- and need to change the time or location you need to be alerted, where do you edit the reminder?

(Credit: Screenshot by Jason Cipriani)

• In order to delete or edit a currently set reminder, you'll need to launch Google Now and then scroll to the bottom of your cards. From there, tap on the menu icon and select "Settings" followed by "My Stuff" and finally Reminders.

(Credit: Screenshot by Jason Cipriani)

• After going through the chain of taps, you'll see a list of your currently set reminders, both from Keep and Now. There's no indication of where each reminder originated, but they're both there nonetheless (why Google Now Reminders don't show up in Keep is a mystery). Tapping on an Ongoing reminder will give you the option to delete it, as will selecting a Past reminder. Editing an upcoming reminder simply requires you to tap on it, change the alert options, and save.

The easier method to setting reminders you'd like easy access to edit later on is to use Keep, but that semi-defeats the purpose of using the convenient voice commands of Google Now to set said reminders.

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Use URL Uncover to check if a shortened link is safe

The Web is a scary place where shortened links can take you to the darkest corner of the Internet. 

 

(Credit: Jason Cipriani) 

 

There is no shortage of Web services to help you verify that a shortened link is legit and not something that's going to load you up with malware or steal personal information. But when it comes to online privacy, it's always good to have options. Instead of adding a "+" to the end of a bit.ly link, or using Unshorten.it, give URL Uncover a look the next time you get suspicious.

(Credit: Screenshot by Jason Cipriani) 

 

Addictive Tips recently wrote about URL Uncover, which will let you enter a shortened URL from over 100 different shortening services. After submitting the URL, you'll be given a screenshot of the Web site, the lengthened link, any keywords associated with the page, and most importantly a virtual thumbs-up or -down indicating whether the site is safe (see below). The green thumbs-up is provided by McAfee Site Advisor.

(Credit: Screenshot by Jason Cipriani) 

 

Perhaps the best part about this particular service is that it's mobile-friendly. I've been able to access the site and use the service on a wide range of devices without issue. Sure, it's a pain to take the time to copy and paste a link from a rogue DM or mention on Twitter into a Web site in another app, but the time it can potentially save you is well worth it.

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