Charter Communications Back to School Promotional Deals

Life is not seamless for students. After all, they have to ensure that they keep a balanced schedule regardless of the number of activities they have to get done. Students have homework, school projects, research and the famous social media to contend with. All these activities are time-consuming and require resources. Many parents and college students find it difficult to juggle these items and secure the resources they need to be effective in school. However, despite these challenges, Charter can and has made a difference in the lives of parents and students. How has have they been able to assist parents and students this year?

 

Charter has recently implemented a back to school promotional deal. This deal saves students money and provides timely service that will be needed throughout the upcoming school year. These services include Internet, phone and TV.

 

 

Charter Back to School Promotions

 

There will be several promotional offers presented by Charter for this deal. Parents and students will be offered various choices that are in alignment with their budgets and current situation. The main offer for this Charter campaign is the Charter Spectrum TV Select $29.99/mo + Charter Spectrum Internet^TM $29.99/mo with HBO for 12 mos when bundled*. While this is the principal package offered in the back to school promotion, there will be several packages to choose from. These packages include:

 

 

 Triple Plays – Charter Spectrum

 

• Charter Spectrum^TM TV Select with HBO + Charter Spectrum^TM Internet + Charter Spectrum^TM Voice $89.97/mo for 12 mos.

 

• Charter Spectrum^TM TV Silver + Charter Spectrum^TM Internet + Charter Spectrum^TM Voice – $99.97/mo for 12 mos.

 

• Charter Spectrum TV Gold + Charter SpectrumTM Internet + Charter SpectrumTM Voice $119.97/mo for 12 mos.

 

 

 Double Plays – Charter Spectrum

 

• Charter Spectrum™ TV Select with HBO + Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $59.98 for 12 mos when bundled

 

• Charter Spectrum™ TV Silver + Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $69.98 for 12 mos when bundled

 

• Charter Spectrum™ TV Gold + Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $89.98 for 12 mos when bundled

 

 

 Single Plays – Charter Spectrum

 

• Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $29.99.mo for 12 mos

 

• Charter Spectrum™ TV Select with HBO – $39.99/mo for 12 mos

 

 

Eligibility for Charter’s Back to School Promotion

 

Not everyone who’s a subscriber to Charter will be eligible for this promotion. However, those who are prospective customers of Charter will be eligible for this deal. This offer is only for a limited time so prospects should ensure that they subscribe after July 23 but no later than September 30.

 

 

Why this Promo is a good deal

 

This promotion is a great opportunity for parents to save during the back to school period. Acquiring all three services – Internet, TV and phone – can be very costly. However, with Charter’s bundled, Triple Play Charter Spectrum, parents can feel confident that their child will be able to meet deadlines with regards to research papers, projects and others. With a stable Internet connection, students can browse the web without worrying about interruptions or dropped connections. In addition, college students tend to find it difficult sourcing enough funds to cover their monthly expenses. With a deal such as Charter’s they’ll be able to obtain the necessary services needed to complete coursework and projects.

 

College students are also avid users of social media networks. With their Internet connection, they’re able to communicate with their families who may be several miles away. Students have access to phone service and they’re constantly kept up-to-date with what’s happening in the media. College students are also in for entertainment. With Charter Spectrum, there’s the inclusion of a premium channel- HBO. This channel features original content, guides, popular movies and TV shows etc.

 

With this back to school promo, not only will college students and parents save big, but they’ll be kept entertained with exceptional services at their disposal.

 

 

 

Disclaimers

 

Triple Plays- Charter Spectrum

Charter Spectrum™ TV Select with HBO + Charter Spectrum™ Internet + Charter Spectrum™ Voice- $29.99/mo each for 12 mos when bundled

Bundle price is $89.97/mo. Yr 1 & $109.97/mo. Yr 2; standard rates apply after 2 years. Qualifying bundle includes Charter TV Select, Charter Internet Plus, and Charter Phone Unlimited. TV equipment required & is extra. HBO included for 1 Yr. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; Phone taxes, fees, & surcharges are included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

Charter Spectrum™ TV Select with HBO + Charter Spectrum™ Internet + Charter Spectrum™ Voice – $89.97/mo for 12 mos

Bundle price is $89.97/mo. Yr 1 & $109.97/mo. Yr 2; standard rates apply after 2 years. Qualifying bundle includes Charter TV Select, Charter Internet Plus, and Charter Phone Unlimited. TV equipment required & is extra. HBO included for 1 Yr. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; Phone taxes, fees, & surcharges are included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

Charter Spectrum™ TV Silver + Charter Spectrum™ Internet + Charter Spectrum™ Voice – $99.97/mo for 12 mos

Bundle price is $99.97/mo. Yr 1 & $129.97/mo. Yr 2; standard rates apply after 2 years. Qualifying bundle includes Charter TV Silver, Charter Internet Plus, and Charter Phone Unlimited. TV equipment required & is extra. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; Phone taxes, fees, & surcharges are included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

Charter Spectrum™ TV Gold + Charter Spectrum™ Internet + Charter Spectrum™ Voice – $119.97/mo for 12 mos

Bundle price is $119.97/mo. Yr 1 & $149.97/mo. Yr 2; standard rates apply after 2 years. Qualifying bundle includes Charter TV Silver, Charter Internet Plus, and Charter Phone Unlimited. TV equipment required & is extra. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; Phone taxes, fees, & surcharges are included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

 

Double Plays- Charter Spectrum

Charter Spectrum™ TV Select with HBO + Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $59.98 for 12 mos when bundled

Bundle price is $59.98/mo. Yr 1 & $89.98/mo. Yr 2; standard rates apply after 2 years. Qualifying bundle includes Charter TV Select and Charter Internet Plus. TV equipment required & is extra. HBO included for 1 Yr. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

Charter Spectrum™ TV Silver + Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $69.98 for 12 mos when bundled

Bundle price is $69.98/mo. Yr 1 & $109.98/mo. Yr 2; standard rates apply after 2 years. Qualifying bundle includes Charter TV Silver and Charter Internet Plus. TV equipment required & is extra. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

Charter Spectrum™ TV Gold + Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $89.98 for 12 mos when bundled

Bundle price is $89.98/mo. Yr 1 & $129.98/mo. Yr 2; standard rates apply after 2 years. Qualifying bundle includes Charter TV Gold and Charter Internet Plus. TV equipment required & is extra. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

 

Single Plays- Charter Spectrum

Charter Spectrum™ Internet – $29.99.mo for 12 mos

Promotion price is $29.99/mo. Yr 1 & $54.99/mo. Yr 2; Standard rates apply after 1 year. Charter Internet modem is required & included in price; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

Charter Spectrum™ TV Select with HBO – $39.99/mo for 12 mos

Promotion price is $39.99/mo. Yr 1 & $59.99/mo. Yr 2; Standard rates apply after 1 year. HBO included for 1 Yr.  TV equipment required & is extra; other equipment, install, taxes, fees & surcharges may apply. Available to limited areas only.

 

 

Charter Communications Back to School Promotional Deals

Advanced TV, High Speed Internet... My kinda thing

Charter Spectrum - Advanced Cable TV, Fast Internet & Phone - Charter Spectrum is suite of services that... http://t.co/GIbXFSt5YL

— Allan Goltz (@AllanGoltz) March 24, 2014

Nokia X Phones: Specs and Features

The Finnish technology firm Nokia, whose devices and services arm is owned by Microsoft, released three new Android phones – the Nokia X, X+ and XL – on February 24. This debut of Android devices is indeed tremendous since Nokia formerly manufactured only Windows-based phones.  The X series are colorful devices and are worth looking into. Here’s what the new Nokia X, X+ and XL have to offer.

 

Hardware and Design

Nokia devices typically display exceptional build quality and cutting edge design. The recently released Nokia X series of smartphones is no exception. Available in 6 colors, these Nokia’s monobody architecture is very attractive and sleek. The Nokia X and X+, which possess 4-inch displays, are almost identical in form and features. However, the 5-inch Nokia XL offers several capabilities that are not available on the two other Nokia X series phones.

 

Nokia X

 

Nokia X

Even though the Nokia X operates on an Android platform, it’s not the typical Android operating system (OS) that you’re accustomed to. Though the device’s OS is based on Android open source software, it still resembles a Windows phone with more modification options. The 4-inch device features a dual-core 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor, 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage space and a 1500mAh battery. The body of the Nokia X is moderately thick and is made from polycarbonate material. It carries a headphone jack, a 3-megapixel rear-facing camera, and a microSD card slot that’s expandable up to 32GB. The user interface is sleek and the cost of the device is low.

 

Nokia X+

Much like the Nokia X, the Nokia X+ is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor and offers a 4-inch display. It has a maximum talk time (3G) of 10.5h and a display resolution of WVGA (800 X 480). With the main camera at 3 megapixels and the resolution at 2048 x 1536 pixels, the Nokia X+ takes pretty decent web quality shots. While 4GB of RAM seems easily exhaustible, an expandable memory (MicroSD) with the capacity to store a maximum of 32GB of information can be used to boost internal storage. The device has Internet browsing capabilities and supports HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) and Opera. For accessing social networking sites seamlessly, you can conveniently use social apps such as Twitter, Facebook and even communicate with friends through Viber, WeChat and Skype. Use the X+ as a Wi-Fi hotspot and connect up to 8 devices with its Wi-Fi capabilities.

 

Nokia XL

The Nokia XL is widely recognized as the ‘daddy’ of the bunch because it packs more power than the other two models. It too, comes with a 1GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor and 4GB of internal storage capacity. However, its 768MB of RAM is an upgrade over that possessed by both the X and X+ models. It also comes with a more powerful 5-megapixel rear-facing camera, as well as a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. This is ideal for capturing significant moments and for making video calls. Since the smart device was designed with a microSD slot, the user can opt for more memory by using one. This device can also be used with two different carriers since it was designed with dual-SIM capabilities.

 

The Nokia XL uses the Nokia X software platform 1.0.1 which, though not as appealing and clear as the Android KitKat or iOS platform, is highly compatible with a wide range of apps. However, despite being based on an Android platform, the Nokia XL will not use Google Play store as a source for obtaining apps. Instead, the XL smartphone will use Nokia’s own app store. If users want an app that is not available in this store, they can always use third party stores to obtain all their choice applications.

 

Nokia XL

 

While the appeal of the Nokia XL lies in the operating system, an open source Android platform, the device remains unrecognizable with Google affiliates. This is evident in the manner in which the device obtains its apps. Even though the device was developed on the Android platform, Nokia opted to use Microsoft’s services instead of Google’s cloud technology. While you can benefit from Microsoft’s services, you’ll also be restricted in the number of apps you are able to download. This is due to the fact that Windows app store is not as broad as Google Play Store.

 

Similarities Between the X series and Windows Phone

 

The following are some of the ways in which the Nokia X series devices are similar to the Windows Phone.

 

• The home screen of the X series is made up of tiles


• Tiles can be customized or moved around by simply holding and dragging a specific one


• Users can increase the size of each tile


• Home app tiles dance around as an app tile is being moved


• Provides Here Maps and Here Drive instead of Google Maps


• Uses Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage platform

 

With Nokia manufacturing devices for both Android (Google) and Windows (Microsoft) phones, the smartphone market might see more advanced devices that are able to provide a greater outlook for the industry.

Nokia X Phones: Specs and Features

Charter Brings You More with the ‘More’ Campaign

Customers are always craving more. Charter strives to satisfy these cravings by making it possible for its valued customers to have the best possible experiences when using its services. If this includes going the extra mile or putting additional services in place, Charter is willing to take that step. Instead of merely matching what other providers offer, the appropriately named ‘More’ campaign has been introduced to customers. Since more is ultimately better, Charter gives you more entertainment options (TV), more speed (Internet) and more opportunities to catch up and say hello (phone).

 

‘More’ Entertainment

If you are one of those movie fanatics who are constantly glued to the TV screen, you should choose Charter for entertainment.

 

• More high definition (HD) programming

Charter offers its subscribers over 125 channels – including many that transmit high definition programming. Customers who want an elevated viewing experience can opt to watch more HD programming that provide clearer, sharper pictures. This resolution offered by Charter is approximately 6 times sharper than the standard definition that many TV service subscribers are accustomed to.

 

 

• More On Demand programming options

Charter has a vast On Demand library loaded with the latest movies and episodes of the most popular TV shows, which can be accessed whenever subscribers wish to do so. With over 10,000 On Demand titles, 1,500 of which are available in HD and 3D, you can watch whatever you want, whenever you want. Instead of having your favorite episodes pass you by, you can catch up with back-to-back episodes On Demand.

 

• More ways to watch movies and shows

Not only do you have the option of viewing On Demand titles, but you can also view in demand movies and TV shows conveniently recorded on your DVR. With Charter, you can tap into up to 780 hours of storage space while accessing this feature on up to 4 TVs within your home. There’s no need to compromise since you can record approximately 8 shows concurrently. If you’re pressed for time just as your favorite movie is about to air, simply record it on your DVR and watch whenever you are able to do so. Manipulate TV programming by playing, pausing and rewinding televised content in every room.

 

Charter also makes it possible for its customers to make more of their entertainment mobile. You can download and install the Charter app on a variety of mobile devices. This’ll allow you to view content on smartphones and tablets while also using them to manage your DVR so that you never miss a show.

 

‘More’ Catching Up

If you talk a lot, you can use Charter phone service to regularly catch up with friends and family. You can also use it to reconnect with people you may not have spoken to in years.

 

 

 

• More value

-Talk for as long as you like without having to deal with dropped calls

-Save money by avoiding all the additional fees that some other phone companies normally charge

-Stay connected with friends and family with unlimited local and long distance calling

-Call friends and family living in Canada, the US, the Virgin Islands, Guam and even Puerto Rico

 

• More calling features

Monitor your landline while you are away from home with the Phone Online Manager. With this feature, you can listen to and delete voicemail messages online, access recent contacts on outgoing calls, add a new contact number, or enable and disable phone features with just a couple of mouse clicks.

 

Charter phone service puts a number of impressive features such as call waiting, call screening and caller ID in your hands. You can also use popular calling features to route calls to other numbers when you are busy or customize your ring tones so that you know exactly who is calling when your phone starts ringing

 

‘More’ Internet Speed

Charter’s Internet service offers more speed in comparison to DSL options. Get up to 30 Mbps, which is significantly faster than DSL, to stream videos, download audio and videos files, and play online games at the same time, without sacrificing convenience.

 

• More time saved

Instead of waiting hours to download a movie, you can save time with Charter’s ‘More’ Internet speed by accessing faster downloads and content streaming. Download more than ten songs in less than a minute and around 50 photos in less than 30 seconds. This compares very favorably with the download times that you’d enjoy with the other Internet service providers who are out there.

 

Instead of buying expensive virus protection software to protect your computer, you can rely on the comprehensive coverage provided by the Charter Security Suite. This top of the line antiviral package detects and combats viruses, spam and other malicious content or programs automatically.

 

Saving Money with Charter

In order to save more with Charter, customers can opt to subscribe for a triple play package. With this bundle, customers put all their eggs in one basket. This includes combining phone, TV and Internet services. This package is convenient since instead of paying three separate bills for all services, customers are only required to pay one. Another package customers can benefit from is a double play. This allows customers to combine Internet service with phone service, phone and TV service, TV and Internet services and vice versa. This ultimately saves subscribers money.

Charter Brings You More with the ‘More’ Campaign

A Look at the Nokia Lumia 1020

While all Nokia Lumia models are desirable, the Nokia Lumia 1020 is one of the more popular ones. This device illustrates more fully the existing features and software of earlier models such as the Lumia 520, 521, 925 and others.

The Amazing Spectacle: The Lumia’s Camera

With all the amazing features on the Lumia 1020 that are worth discussing, the first to tackle is the camera. For those who enjoy the lifestyle of a photographer and have to take a photo of every attractive site they come across or anything that stirs interest, the Nokia Lumia camera will cover all that. With a 41 megapixel camera sensor, the Lumia 1020 takes pictures in high resolution, supports HD video and provides rich recording and video features.

Additionally, the camera supports ZEISS optics with a flash operating range of 4.0 m and a Xenon flash camera type. Other features of the camera include:

• 6-lens optics


• Digital camera add-ons


• Cinemagraphic and Panoramic lens


• Landscape orientation, geo tagging and full screen view finder


• JPEG Camera format


• PureView

The camera supports many different photography apps including Nokia camera, creative studio, Cinemagraph, Nokia Storyteller and others. The secondary camera provides a resolution of 1280* 960 pixels and supports features such as video recording, video calling etc.

With this advanced camera you can take photos like a pro, capture images like never before and reinvent zooming all from a phone.

Design and Build

Available in black, white and yellow, the Nokia Lumia 1020 model resembles its predecessor, the Nokia Lumia 920. It has a 4.5 inch screen with various buttons performing different functions on the side, including shutting down, volume and a button which is used to manipulate the phone’s camera feature.

The speakers and ports are located in the same place. With regards to the Lumia 920, there are some similarities between the two, but the 1020 is slightly thinner and is easily distinguished by its camera on the back. It is quite comfortable to hold and provides a firm grip as a result of its polycarbonate body. The device is 130.4 mm in height, 71.4 mm in width, 10.4 mm thick and a weight of 158 g.

The Lumia 1020 has a matte finish and a coating that is able to combat fingerprints and dirt. It is well rounded and smooth with a flat top and a bottom that is great for positioning the phone on a flat surface. Due to its oval shaped camera, the device will show a slight rising when laid flat on its bottom.

With the phones design however, one needs to be careful as to how it is held since the matte is seen as too smooth and will easily slip from the fingers if a firm grip is not taken. The color contrast makes it pop right in front of your eyes.

There are not many customization features allowed on the Lumia 1020. The most can be done on your part is to change the tile colors on your front screen, the theme, the background color and download different apps to personalize tiles such as using pictures instead.

Performance and Hardware

Like all Nokia Lumia lines, the 1020 runs on the Windows 8 operating system. With normal activities performed on the device on a daily basis such as texting, calling, gaming and even browsing the web, the device is anticipated to last around 12 to 13 hours.

 

The Lumia is accompanied by 32GB of storage. It is capable of being used as a mobile hotspot and it has a 4.0 Bluetooth connectivity feature. Additional hardware and performance of the Lumia include:

• Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor


• Dual-core 1.5 GHz processor


• 2 GB RAM


• Free cloud storage: 7GB


• Micro SIM card type


• NFC: Very secure for sharing, pairing, tagging and payments

The device is fully touch screen and only requires a tap to respond to your commands. It is fully interactive and easy to navigate throughout.

Software and Applications

The different applications and software downloadable on the device allow for management of personal and business information. The app store provides productivity applications including alarm clock, reminders, family room, kid’s corner, to-do-list, a wallet etc.

For business apps, there is adobe reader for using PDF files and eBooks, SkyDrive for storing important information in a secure location, notes and Office applications.  For more applications and software, you can opt to use the Windows store to download nearly any app available in the store.

In addition to providing productivity apps, the Lumia 1020 provides apps for GPS and navigational purposes. This includes locating desired destinations, guidance for routing public transportation, guidance with Here Drive+, Here Maps and Here Transit apps.

A Look at the Nokia Lumia 1020

Charter and Oregon Health Network: A Partnership to Create Health Advancements and Job Opportunities

As the Charter chariot continues to move, their partnership with Oregon Health Network, an Ochin, Inc. Organization, has made vast improvements and advancements in the health industry. With the completion of what is seen as the broadband fiber optic network, which became feasible as a result of help from the Federal Communications Commission Rural Health Care Pilot Program. This partnership has undoubtedly changed the way things are done with regards to video telemedicine, Internet speed of broadband access, and even the viewership of high definition television offered to the public in a particular area.

 

If you are a customer residing in Southern Oregon and Crescent City, Calif, you will indeed reap the many benefits that are made available to you through this partnership.

 

What this Partnership has Accomplished for Customers

 

As the ultimate division of an 87-mile road commencing from Grants Pass in Oregon to Crescent City, Calif. comprising of a circuit of 720GB, the implementation of a complete fiber optic network will accomplish the following:

 

• The completion of this fiber optic network has the ability to provide service for thousands of individuals across numerous cities.

 

• With the fiber optic network implementation, there then comes the provision of high-speed Internet access along with phone and high definition television service. This will not only be available to households, but also to businesses.

 

• Advancements have also been made in Telemedicine. This simply means that medical information will be exchanged in a timely manner from one location to another by way of electronic communication devices. This is used to make the necessary improvements in providing adequate health care for patients in need of it. Since the fiber optic network is able to transfer more data at a greater speed, information will be transmitted via wireless tools, electronic mail, smart phones and even two-way video.

 

• The completed fiber optic network has also ended a redundant loop in the fiber optic network linking Southern Oregon and northern California. This implementation has established a more stable and reliable connection within the area.

 

• Whether or not the health industry wants to keep up, they will be coerced to. With a speedy connection, these health facilities will keep up-to-date with current information, technologies and issues afflicting patients. In effect, advanced health care will be made available to these individuals.

 

• Job opportunities are provided for everyone

 

Two Greater Accomplishments for Everyone

Job Opportunities

As a bigger picture, this partnership between Charter and Oregon Health Network, an Ochin, Inc. Organization will provide job opportunities for the general public. With the fiber optic network completed, there is the possibility that there will be more jobs available. Entrepreneurs can use this avenue or development to create a business or even expand on their investments through outsourcing. In outsourcing their businesses, companies can create offshore sites to employ people where employment is well needed in countries such as India and the Caribbean.

 

 

 

Call centers handling heavy data applications will provide opportunities for people. When companies expand their operations or create new ones, people will have various opportunities. The establishment of these businesses will not only see customer representatives but also individuals working within Human Resource, IT, QA and others.

 

The creation of new jobs and expansion of companies will in effect boost the economy of that particular country in which job opportunities were created. With fiber optic behind telecommunications, things will get better.

 

Health Care Advancements

As indicated before, the completion of the fiber optic network will make advancements within the health care industry. With this completion comes the improvements of telemedicine. This means that patients can actually stay at their hometown hospital or medial facility and be adequately cared for and treated, instead of being taken to a larger medical facility out of their hometown for treatment. This provision also benefits families since they do not have to take time off from work to see their families in other cities. In fact, more than a quarter of those patients who have undergone treatment were able to stay within their hometown medical facility. To a great extent, this saves families, reduces transportation costs and even their insurance policies.

 

 

Telemedicine is now more effective and easily done. In any situation where a consultation is needed, a mobile videoconferencing cart is placed at the bedside of the patient whenever the doctor from the local health facility makes any calls for inquiries. Through technologies such as telemedicine machine, a computer, an audio-video connection, the physician on the other end can carry out their examinations, read CT scans or X-rays and other tasks that are needed to be done. All these were made possible with the collaboration of Charter and Oregon Health Network. Without Charters expertise, equipment and use of fiber optic network to create a stable and secure connection for the health facility in the Oregon and Calif area, this health advancement would not be a success.

 

All these opportunities and advancements in health via telemedicine are well appreciated by patients and their families. As a result of this partnership, the chief executive officer of OCHIN, Abigail Sears, was able to declare that they were able to live up to their mission in providing advanced technology to communities thanks to Charter.

 

 

 

 

 

Sources

http://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2011/11/health_care_delivery_headline.html

http://www.oregonhealthnet.org/content/press-room-archives

http://www.bloomberg.com/article/2014-01-22/aTNczD6GGZZQ.html

Charter and Oregon Health Network: A Partnership to Create Health Advancements and Job Opportunities

Google Nexus 8 Soon to be Released

Scheduled for takeoff in April, the Google Nexus 8 inch tablet will soon hit the streets. Since its predecessor, the Nexus 7, was the creation of a partnership between Google and ASUS, it is highly anticipated that this partnership will continue for the Nexus 8. However, this is unconfirmed and might include other candidates such as HTC and LG. According to a report from Digitimes’ sources, the initial shipment launch for the 8-inch device will amount to around 2 million units.

 

Anticipated Features of the Nexus 8 inch Tablet

 

It is highly anticipated that the Nexus 8 will be released with an 8 inch screen since that is the standard Google has maintained with its Nexus tablets. We saw the Google Nexus 5 with 5” and the Nexus 7 with its accompanying 7”. Anything less developed by Google would indeed be shocking and something unforeseen to the majority. There is not much information given on the Nexus 8 since Google did not say much but rumor has it that the device will have the 8 inch LCD screen display which will include a pixel resolution of 1200 x 1920.

 

The Nexus 8 will operate under the Android 4.4 Kitkat Operating System. This operating system is ideal since it provides a more refined design. It has been optimized for better performance along with several new features.

 

Some additional features expected to appear on the tablet include:

 

• Adreno 320 graphics chip


• 8 GB Variant


• quad core Snapdragon 600 or 800 CPU (clocked at 1.7 GHz)

 

Will Google Proceed with a Front- Facing Camera?

Many users of the Nexus 7 tablet have the option of using a front- facing camera. However, this time around, there have been questions and speculations as to whether or not Google will proceed with a front camera or they’ll completely remove it.

 

The Battle for Dominance – Nexus 8 vs. Nexus 7

Since the release of the Nexus 7, the sales of the device fell short of what Google initially anticipated. However, this does not mean that Google has lost hope for the 7 inch tablet since they are making changes and will add several new features to its successor, the Nexus 8. The release of the Nexus 8 is highly anticipated and is expected to offset the deficiencies of its predecessor and make up for what the 7 inch tablet lacks.

 

 

 

The 7 inch Nexus tablet bears a Qualcomm Snapdragon of 1.5GHz while the soon to be released 8 inch tablet is expected to see a quad core Snapdragon clocked at 1.7 GHz. This simply means that several minor changes will be made to the processor of the device to enhance and improve the tablets performance. Not only will the quad core be different, but there is the possibility that the RAM, along with other features will be increased.

 

While the hardware will see some changes, the software will too. The Google Nexus 7 currently operates on the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean operating system platform while the Nexus 8 is expected to run on the latest Android version, the Android 4.4 KitKat. This change will provide a smoother and more interactive OS, menu and display.

 

Why All the Fuss?

Since the 7 inch Nexus tablet did not attain its intended reaction, it is expected that the Nexus 8 will take a different turn and exemplify more fully its predecessor. In no way it is implied that the Nexus 7 is not a great device with exceptional features. However, people were actually looking for more with its release. Since there have been major complaints with regards to the 7 inch tablet’s woeful camera, absence of SD slot and short battery life, these are not expected with the release of the Nexus 8 to take place in April.

 

Google Nexus 8 Soon to be Released

Pebble Steel Adds Classy Touch to Wearable Tech

Wearable tech is all the rage these days. Electronics companies are churning out fashion accessory-like gadgets that can fulfill virtually all of your heart’s technological desires at an unprecedented rate. There are glasses that double as computers, wristbands that moonlight as fitness monitors, and watches that allow you to control a wide range of other personal electronics with a simple tap or swipe. Yep, the lines that traditionally connected the form of a device with the function(s) that it’s capable of performing are truly being reshaped in a revolutionary way. Admittedly, the infancy of many of these devices has not been marked by captivating beauty. In fact, many of the wearable tech gadgets on the market today fall far outside the “looker” category. There are, of course, some quite notable exceptions. The recently released Pebble Steel smart watch is one such. This impressive accessory will definitely add a complementary touch of class to your wardrobe.

 

What’s so new and different about this Pebble?

 

The Pebble Steel is definitely not the first smart watch to roll off a production line. In fact, it isn’t even the first such Pebble device to hit the market. However, it’s arguably the classiest looking gadget of its kind that’s been made available for purchase so far (at the very least, it’s a very solid contender for the coveted title of “Best Looking Smart Watch”). Yep, aesthetics are also very important as well. Unlike its predecessor, which came with a plastic case and rubber band, the Steel offers you the flexibility to dress it up a little. You can order yours in either brushed stainless steel or black matte. However, that’s not all. Each of these good-looking watches ships with both metal and leather straps. This gives you the chance to totally change the look of your smart timepiece from one day to the next. The leather strap is perfect for more casual, sportier occasions. Meanwhile, the metal alternative is ideal for those formal engagements. The power to choose is all yours.            

 

3 reasons why it’s not just another pretty face

Despite the ravishing looks it happens to possess, I know that it’s highly unlikely that you’ll be shelling out a couple hundred bucks for that alone. If you’re a potential buyer, you’ll definitely be very interested in all the other features and capabilities that this smart watch brings to the table. Here’s a look at some of them:

 

• It’s compatible with various smartphones

Some of us get hundreds of notifications channeled to our smartphones daily. Many of these are very important and must be viewed immediately. On the other hand, there are others that aren’t really worth the hassle associated with repeatedly pulling out our phones to check them. Bluetooth 4.0 support allows the Pebble Steel to smoothly interface (communicate) with your smartphone. This’ll make it possible for you to read a preview of all the new messages that are sent to the phone by simply glancing down at the watch’s face. You’ll also be able to conveniently catch up on what you might’ve missed while otherwise engaged without needing to touch your phone. The Steel packs enough storage capacity to allow you to scroll through a listing of the last 50 notifications that were sent to your device.  

 

• It’s compatible with many useful apps

Apps are the lifeblood of modern smart devices such as the Pebble Steel. These software gems infuse such gadgets with the capabilities required to perform all the useful functions that we’ve grown to appreciate so much. This chic smart watch allows you to tap into a whole new universe of apps that can make life much more enjoyable and productive. The majority of these apps can be accessed through the new Pebble app store, which houses scores of mobile software options that you can easily and conveniently download and use. ESPN and Foursquare are among the popular apps that you can currently get through this freshly introduced virtual store. However, it’s also possible to get your hands on a host of other less well-known, but equally useful ones. The Steel also supports many of the other apps that are compatible with your Android and Apple mobile devices.     

 

      

 

• It keeps going and going

Long battery life is a coveted characteristic of any electronic gadget. Theoretically, you’ll be able to get more done the longer that your device is able to stay up and running. In this regard, the Pebble Steel compares very favorably with many of its competitors within the smart watch arena. You’ll be very pleased to know that each charge you give to your Steel rewards you with between five and seven days of up time. This capacity makes this classy device an excellent option for people who’re always on the go and extremely busy.

 

The Final Word

The Pebble Steel is not much different from its predecessor, the Pebble, in terms of the hardware that it has under the hood. However, its increased aesthetic appeal is a characteristic that those with more discerning tastes will definitely appreciate. In the latter regard, it’s certainly a big upgrade.      

 

Pebble Steel Adds Classy Touch to Wearable Tech

There’s Loads for Charter Customers to Watch with Mobile Apps

Watching your favorite TV shows is so much easier with Charter. You don’t have to be tied to your television anymore to enjoy all of the engrossing programming that appeals to you. You, your partner, or the kids can watch it on a smartphone or tablet while traveling in the car to an exciting vacation adventure. Or, you can take it all in while (pensively) waiting for the imminent arrival of an experience that’s decidedly less pleasant – like getting a tooth extracted at the dentist. Charter makes it all possible by channeling its extensive programming options through apps that you can install on the various mobile devices that you’ve got with you throughout the day. No matter what else you’ve got to do, you no longer have to sacrifice even a minute of that can’t miss program. Here’s a sampling of the various categories of channels that you’ll be able to watch while on the go:

 

• News

The news is always happening – whether it’s on the local, national, or international scene. The 24-hour news cycle and the fast-paced nature of the globalized world in which we live demands that we keep up with all the happenings taking place around us. Charter satisfies this need by making stations such as CNN, the self-proclaimed “Worldwide Leader in News” available to you via your various mobile devices. You’ll be kept informed of all that’s going on with up-to-the-minute headlines on the latest situations developing around the globe. You can always expect to see original stories that are complemented by live video when you tune in to news channels on your smartphone or tablet.

 

• Family

Many parents will tell you that mobile devices are among the most effective parenting aids that have come along in recent times. They allow you to focus your energies on other matters while the kids quietly amuse themselves. They can play games, surf the Internet, and engage in a host of other attention-grabbing activities with the various mobile devices that you put into their hands. However, there are very few things that they can do with these gadgets that’ll give you more peace of mind than watching their favorite TV shows. Disney Channel and Disney XD are among the stations that serve up significant volumes of captivating, kid-friendly programming that your young ones can spend hour upon hour enjoying. A beloved favorite like Phineas and Ferb, which chronicles the exciting adventures of stepbrothers Phineas Flynn and Ferb Fletcher, is sure to keep your kids royally entertained throughout the lengthiest and most grueling of journeys. For slightly more mature audiences, the martial arts-themed Kickin’ It is among the shows that can be streamed.                 

 

• Movies

There are very few activities that help time to pass faster than watching a good movie. You definitely won’t be short of such options when you subscribe to Charter, and download and install the various mobile movie channel apps that they put at your disposal. HBO is among the premium movie stations from which you’ll be able to enjoy award-winning programming when you sign up. Hit movie after hit movie is showcased on the channel. These include some of Hollywood’s most acclaimed blockbusters. You’ll also be able to watch the latest episodes from some of the most riveting shows on television. Additionally, you can also place the powerful entertainment engine that is Cinemax at your fingertips when you install the MAX GO app. You’ll instantly gain access to hundreds of hours of box office-busting cinematic hits, independent film gems, and groundbreaking original series.        

 

• Sports

Avid sports fans are a dime a dozen throughout the United States. If you proudly number yourself among this fanatical lot, you’ll know that there are few things more irritating than missing out on the airing of that critical game that your favorite team’s going to play. It’s only natural for your annoyance levels to rise even further when it hits you that all of this is happening due to travel or work commitments. However, with Charter mobile apps installed on your device, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to watch many of the most exciting series, games, and plays unfolding all across the sporting world – despite the fact that you might be miles away from your TV. ESPN’s WatchESPN app allows you to unlock pulsating live coverage of action from many of the top North American professional sporting leagues – including the NFL, NBA, and MLB. NBC Sports Network is also among the channels that sport-loving Charter subscribers can turn to when out and about. You can feast your eyes on hundreds of live sporting events – including scores of high profile games from the English Premier League – when you tap into the NBC Sports Live Extra app.        

 

What else do you need to know?

It’s worth noting that some of the apps available are not compatible with all mobile devices. These limited compatibility issues typically revolve around the type of operating system that your device is running – whether Android or iOS. There are also programming access restrictions that apply, depending on what the package that you’ve signed up for allows you to watch.  

 

There are numerous mobile apps that Charter subscribers can use to view a wide range of thrilling programming on their various mobile devices. CNN, ESPN, HBO, and Disney Channel are among the stations that can be channeled to you while you’re on the go.   

 

 

There’s Loads for Charter Customers to Watch with Mobile Apps

Coming Attraction: Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Lite

The Samsung Galaxy line of smartphones, tablets, and phablets has captured the imaginations of millions of users throughout the country since making its debut in the American consumer electronics arena back in 2009. Each new gadget that rolls off the Galaxy production line is typically greeted with great excitement by the many people who prize the fine form and functionality that we’ve come to expect from these high-tech gadgets. Recently, word hit the street that another highly desirable tablet is about to make its way down Samsung’s seemingly endless conveyor belt. The Galaxy Tab 3 Lite is its name. There’s little doubt that it will also generate a significant amount of buzz (and lengthy pre-order lists) before it eventually makes its arrival on this side of the Atlantic.

 

The Galaxy Tab 3 7.0’s (almost) identical twin brother

The recently announced Galaxy Tab 3 Lite is very similar in form and features to the Galaxy Tab 3 7.0, which was released in July of last year. However, there are a few minor differences between both of these fetching gadgets that are worth noting. The technical specifications boasted by both suggest that the Tab 3 Lite version is thinner than its predecessor by a microscopic 0.2 millimeters (mm). Nonetheless, it tips the scale at a slightly heavier weight, stands just a bit taller than the Tab 3 7.0, and also takes up a tad more horizontal space. Initial reports also suggest that the soon-to-be-released gadget will feature a less powerful rear camera, and a battery that’s able to store away just a little less “juice”. There are, however, noticeable software upgrades that will make the taking of those all-important selfies much easier. (The Smile Shot feature is the software upgrade to which all self-portrait fanatics should direct their sincerest gratitude.) Some industry insiders are suggesting that the various hardware revisions highlighted above will push the new mobile device down towards a “budget” price point. However, there is yet no concrete indication that the Tab 3 Lite will carry a lighter price tag than its predecessor.

 

Much more than just a pretty face

At the end of the day, looks only count for so much when a mobile device is the object that sits squarely in the gaze of the beholder. (The Tab 3 Lite has the same visual appeal that’s characteristic of virtually all other devices in the Samsung Galaxy line.) The device’s ability to perform a variety of personal and productivity tasks is what the average user values most highly. The fact that the Tab 3 Lite boasts many of the same hardware specs that its predecessor does suggests that it’ll also be able to satisfy the day-to-day needs of its users. Here’s a look at a few of its key features:

 

• 1.2 GHz dual-core processor

This type of processor is common in mobile devices that are designed with the budget conscious shopper in mind. It strikes a very good balance between performance and price.   

 

• 1 GB RAM

1 GB of random access memory capacity will allow your Galaxy Tab 3 Lite to comfortably handle all of the everyday computing tasks that you’ll use it to perform. However, more memory-intensive tasks such as gaming may cause it to run a bit sluggishly on occasion.   

 

• 8 GB of internal storage

8 GB of built-in memory isn’t sufficient to store that many apps, movies, songs, etc. Thankfully, there’s an available microSD card slot that allows you to expand this storage capacity by up to 32 GB.

 

 

• Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) operating system

The Android 4.2 operating system is one of the latest to hit the market. It features a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy for you to utilize the various functions that the Tab 3 Lite brings to the table.  

 

• Pre-installed apps

Applications are the lifeblood of any mobile device. Without them, it’s just another piece of (possibly pricey) hardware. The Galaxy Tab 3 Lite comes preloaded with a host of useful apps. These include Chrome, Gmail, YouTube, Samsung Hub, ChatON, Dropbox, and Polaris Office, a suite of useful mobile productivity tools for the professional who’s always on the move.  

 

• Wi-Fi & Bluetooth connectivity

The Galaxy Tab 3 Lite gives you the ability to connect to Wi-Fi networks anywhere throughout the United States. This makes accessing the Internet (and all the various important resources located there) as easy as 1-2-3. Additional Bluetooth connectivity allows you to exchange photos and other such small files with friends and family members who are close by.

 

Galaxy Tab 3 Lite to enter crowded market

The Tab 3 Lite is slated to face some stiff competition for the affections of American mobile device lovers when it eventually arrives. There are currently numerous highly rated 7-inch tablets on the market that sit at or near the price point at which the new Galaxy device is expected to enter the fray. However, the type of features it boasts suggests that it’ll be more than able to hold its own. In addition, there’s no way that one can overlook the power of the Samsung brand and the accompanying “Galaxy” label

Coming Attraction: Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Lite

5 Good Things about the ARCHOS GamePad 2

Electronics manufacturers are churning out tablets and portable gaming consoles at an unprecedented pace these days. At the rate they’re rolling off production lines, it sometimes feels as if blinking is the surest way to miss the release of the “next big thing” in either of these popular gadgetry categories. What’s much less common is a device that combines the functionality of both of these in demand devices into one compact and convenient package. The ARCHOS GamePad 2 is one such gadget. It adequately caters to the unique needs of gamers by providing a visually immersive and intuitive gaming experience. On the other hand, it also covers the needs of non-gamers by putting all the features and capabilities of a full-fledged tablet at the fingertips of users who are not gaming enthusiasts.

         

Not really bigger…but definitely better

As you might’ve assumed from its name, the ARCHOS GamePad 2 is actually a second generation gaming tablet. Its predecessor, the ARCHOS GamePad, was released in December 2012. Unsurprisingly, many of the hardware components have remained the same. (It’s not unusual for manufacturers to reuse much of the hardware featured in first generation gadgets in subsequent versions of the device.) Much of the software featured thereon has also been held over from the previous model. However, there are many marked differences between the two. The newer version of this Android-based device boasts a wider range of features and capabilities than its forerunner. These enhancements will translate into a much better user experience for the majority of folks who purchase this upgraded gaming tablet. Here’s a look at five of the features that you’ll really appreciate:      

 

• Powerful processor 

It’s easy to appreciate the importance of a powerful processor. The processor is like an engine that allows your device to get through all the processing tasks that you ask it to perform. The ARCHOS GamePad 2 comes equipped with a more powerful engine than its predecessor. The quad-core processor that comes standard with the device features two more cores (mini processors) than the dual-core version that was used in the original GamePad. In theory, this will allow the device to more efficiently handle gameplay and other processor-intensive tasks by distributing the workload across a greater number of mini processors than was possible before. This latest version of the gadget also makes more random access memory (RAM) available to you. This will make the opening of your favorite applications (apps) much smoother and more seamless.     

 

• Impressive battery life

The longevity of its battery is one of the most important factors to consider when you’re in the market for any mobile device – whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or portable gaming console. There are very few mobile devices that are consistently used in environments where a charging source is readily available. As a result, the fact that the GamePad 2 can do more on a single charge than its predecessor is very attractive.  

 

 

• Expandable memory

The memory capacity of a gaming tablet such as the ARCHOS GamePad 2 directly impacts the number of apps, games, and the volume of content that can be stored on it. The latest version of the gadget comes with a built-in storage capacity of either 8 or 16 GB. (The earlier model came equipped with only the lesser storage option.) This is sufficient to archive a fair volume of apps, games, etc. However, the existence of a micro SD memory card slot makes it possible for you to boost the storage resources of the device significantly. Up to 64 GB of additional space can be placed at your disposal with the purchase and easy insertion of a compatible memory card.     

 

• Highly responsive operating system

Operating systems are the brains behind the vast majority of mobile devices that are in use today. They coordinate the operation of all hardware and software components so that these gadgets can function as effectively as possible. The GamePad 2 features one of the most popular operating systems currently available – Android 4.2. (The original device was supported by the older Android 4.1.) This upgrade translates into a raft of enhanced features that significantly improve the usability of the gadget. The enhancements that you’ll be able to enjoy include more user-friendly interfaces and upgraded messaging features. The vast capabilities of the latest versions of a wide range of Google-supported entertainment and social media apps can also be more easily accessed from the more intuitive Android 4.2 interface.    

 

• Effective game mapping too

Many of the most popular modern games were designed to be played on the various touch screen devices that millions of Americans now own. As a result, they are not able to support the traditional controller-oriented gaming experience that so many avid gamers crave. The GamePad 2 features a unique piece of software – the ARCHOS Game Mapping Tool – that makes many of these games compatible with the handheld controls possessed by this device.  

 

A Good Gaming Tablet

The ARCHOS GamePad 2 is a mobile device that marries the features and functionality of a handheld gaming console with those of a tablet. It offers a powerful processor, large and highly responsive 7-inch touch screen display, impressive battery life, and a very effective game mapping tool. These features (and the others it possesses) allow the GamePad 2 to cater to the needs of a wide variety of unique users.

5 Good Things about the ARCHOS GamePad 2