Samsung reportedly developing a standalone smartwatch

The first iterations of the Samsung smartwatch required a Samsung smartphone to work. But now it would seem their next model would function on its own without the need of another device. The Wall Street Journal reports Samsung is developing a smartwatch that can take and make calls, take photos, and answer emails without the need of a Samsung Galaxy device. It will come with its own SIM card and will run on Tizen platform.

The Korean tech company is reportedly in talks with telecom carriers in the US, Europe, and South Korea about the device and they hope to debut the device between June and July.

iPhone 5s and Galaxy S5 case designed to protect you from hackers?

Vysk: Putting Privacy Back in Your Hands from Mustache Production on Vimeo.

If you thought you could use an extra layer of security for your iPhone 5s or Samsung Galaxy S5, Vysk has made a case that doubles physical and digital security for your device. Let us list down the features of the Vysk QS1. It has mechanical camera shutters for the front and rear cameras so it won’t pry into the world and yourself. It has a microphone jamming system and an internal processor that encrypts your calls to make them secure. It also features encrypted voicemail, private messaging, and image gallery.

The QS1 is also designed to protect you against malware with the company’s patented Privacy Network. We’re not quite sure how they protect you against malware but that is an interesting proposition. And before we forget, it also has a built-in battery to give you that extra juice you need.  This comes at a pretty price of US$229.99 though. You can pre-order it from their site or through Best Buy later this winter.

Source: Android Central

Samsung adds extra smarts and tougher case for tablets used in schools

Tablets meant for use at school require a bit more protection from kids’ usual antics. That is why Samsung made a classroom ready version of its Galaxy Tab 4 Education. The 10.1-inch tablet has made its debut in the US and it comes with a rugged case to help survive the falls that might happen. The tablet also has access to educational apps, videos, and books through Google Play for Education. The device comes at a premium price though at US$370. And if you want access to Google Play, you will need pay an additional $30.

Source: AnandTech

The Apple Beat: Apple's back in the news, but not for new products

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Apple's been a hot topic of late but not because of any new products or services. Sure, the new MacBook Airs have arrived and now offer even better battery life thanks to newer Intel processors. The biggest Apple news this past week was the company's stock surging to over $600 a share, the new addition of Burberry Wunderkind Angela Arhendts as the new Senior VP for Retail, as well as Apple winning the long-contested patent lawsuit against supplier and arch-rival Samsung.

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