Tech Fore Front

Switch Between Apps Using Floating ToolBox-Floating App

2017-02-11T05:48:00.000-08:00

ToolBox was originally introduced by Samsung in the Galaxy S5 then with the rest of other Samsung phones that's followed. After trying a Samsung stock system, I grew to find this tool quite handy when switching between apps, something we often do. First, I was a bit skeptical about having a floating icon on screen that could block content but with time realized it's better having it on than not.

ToolBox enables a user easily switch from one app to another without having to move back to app drawer to open the app the usual way. Basically, favorite commonly used apps are selected to be added to ToolBox and by tapping the floating icon while on any screen in any app, a list of the selected Apps is displayed. Tapping on any opens that app.

After having it baked within Samsung Touchwiz system, Android users saw it useful if it was also available for other phones apart from Samsung. So, a universal version of this was built. Well, there are many other versions built that work like it but Floating ToolBox-Floating App is the closest to the original, I could find and recommend.

ToolBox also fades seconds when not being used to prevent any distraction. Remains on screen but toned down. And unlike the original one from Samsung, this one has far many features.
It comes with icon pack support, abilities to add as many apps on the tray as you want -no limit, different animations, ability to change icon or color, lock icon position, stick icons to screen edge among many things.

Whenever I get a new phone or install new system, this is one of the first apps I install. Hopefully, you'll like it too when you give it a try.

Get on Play Store

Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 (Snapdragon) receives the first Unofficial LineageOS ROM

2017-01-09T03:20:00.000-08:00

When Cyanogen Inc. shutdown 31st December, development on Cyanogenmod ROM was expected to die out as well since the closure of Cyanogen Inc. took official Cyanogenmod ROMs with it. However, shortly before Cyanogen Inc. shut down, LineageOS emerged. LineageOS was put in place to continue what Cyanogen Inc. used to do and in a sense pick up where Cyanogenmod left. And interestingly, it's the same Cyanogen Inc. team working on Official LineageOS so we most likely don't expect a huge change from Cyanogenmod to LineageOS.

With that in mind, the development community is busy working on bringing LineageOS to as many devices as possible using the source code provided at lineageos.org, official website for LineageOS. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3, the Qualcomm Snapdragon is the first phone to taste this development.

minz1, Senior Member on XDA Developers took it to XDA to announce the Unofficial LineageOS ROM for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3. The ROM is based on Android 7.1.1 Nougat. All LineageOS ROM are expected to have their core Android version as 7.1.1 Nougat, unless otherwise. He calls it LineageOS 14.1 similar to previous Cyanogenmod 14.1. There is no much of difference from Cyanogenmod 14.1 here apart from a number of LineageOS features being added as provided on LineageOS Website to perhaps distinguish it from Cyanogenmod. If and when the team at LineageOS.org consider this Unofficial build true to their source code in all form, it will be confirmed and announced official.

A lot of development on LineageOS for other phones is expected as announcements have been seen put up on difference device forums on XDA for those devices that are officially being supported and maintained for LineageOS for example the Galaxy S3 (I9300)

Source: XDA Thread

Nokia 6, Latest Android-Powered Nokia Phone by HDM Global

2017-01-08T08:17:00.000-08:00

After Nokia's failed attempt to win the market through Microsoft by making Windows Phones, Nokia took a break from focusing on phones which led Microsoft drop it's brand as well. It hasn't been a smooth ride for Nokia. But obviously the brand was too popular to die out. Nokia decided to license it's brand to any company that would still use and promote the Nokia brand and at least carry the legacy on with hope of Nokia picking it up again in the future. Basically a phone manufacturer would have to get rights from Nokia and whatever they may entail. In that sense the phone would be made by a different company but marketed as a Nokia phone with approval from Nokia.

This is where HMD Global comes in. HMD Global is a Finnish company that secured the exclusive license from Nokia to use the Nokia brand on the phones it's makes. HMD happens to contimue the Nokia story and has been making feature phones that carry the Nokia brand.

On the last day of CES 2017, an annual tech showcase event, HMD Global announced the Nokia 6. Essential, this is a Nokia phone made by HMD Global. Sadly though, this is only a Chinese only version for Chinese market. Obviously, it's the largest smartphone market and possibly a good move to see the reaction towards the phone before it hits the International market.

The Nokia 6 is a mid-range phone while many expected it to be a high-end phone, but build quality appears impressive. The phone is housed in a full aluminum unibody brushed to give a more premium look despite the price tag. It spots a 5.5” 1080p screen that has a curved 2.5D Gorilla Glass sheet on top with a resolution of 1080 pixels by 1920 pixels at 403 pixels per inch. In comparison with known high-end phones, lets say this display falls between the Galaxy S7 with a resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels and a PPI of 577, and the iPhone 7 with a resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels and PPI of 326.

Nokia 6 is powered by the latest but mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 processor with X6 LTE modem designed for excellent battery life and superior graphics performance. It comes with 4GB RAM on board and 64GB of storage expandable to 128GB via microSD Card.

It also spots a 16-megapixel primary camera on the rear with an f2.0 aperture and a 8-megapixel front shooter for selfies with the same aperture. It also comes with a built-in 3000mAh battery.

It's a dual SIM (GSM + CDMA and GSM + CDMA) smartphone that accepts connectivity options include GPS, Bluetooth, 3G and 4G. Sensors on the phone include Compass Magnetometer, Proximity sensor, Accelerometer, Ambient light sensor and Gyroscope.

As far as software goes, the Nokia 6 runs the latest Android 7.0 Nougat, a little disappointing as 7.1 that comes with major security patches would have been expected on this new anticipated phone like this. Also, the Nokia 6 doesn't seem to be using Nokia's own Z Launcher, Nokia's own Android Launcher. It's understandable for the fact that it's made by HMD and not Nokia but we would all love to see Nokia have a little bit more of it's presence and signature features in a Nokia phone than just the branding. Hopefully that will come in the International version if it ever gets released.

Nokia 6 will debut exclusively through JD.com in China in "early 2017" with not exact date mentioned. It will retail for 1,699 CNY or $245.

Quick look at the new BlackBerry 'mercury'

2017-01-05T13:54:00.000-08:00

It has not been an easy road for BlackBerry but it's good to see the company going. In the fast few weeks there has been rumor of an upcoming BlackBerry device with a physical keyboard and yes, it's here. This is however a demo version that has been showcased at CES 2017. The device is still new and has no official name yet. For now, we know it as the BlackBerry Mercury.

Like the previous two BlackBerry phones, the DTEK50 and DTEK60 running Android, this is also build by TCL Communication a company BlackBerry is partnering with to produce the latest BlackBerry phones. Unlike the previous models, this doesn't pick it's design from previous phones built by TCL like the Alcatel Idol 3 but clearly bring BlackBerry's own look and feel. That includes a physical keyboard one of BlackBerry's signature features. Key travel as in many reviews looks impressive.

Apart from the keyboard being used as a trackpad like in the BlackBerry Passport and Priv, a fingerprint scanner is now built within the keyboard spacebar, a unique move.

As earlier mentioned, this BlackBerry running Android, an earlier build that looks to be a test build with a few noticeable bugs. But as usual BlackBerry values security so DTEK security features come built within the software itself.

The new phone is being showcased now but we wait to see the retail version released later in the following weeks.

The new Tecno DroiPad10 Pro II runs on Remix OS out of the box

2016-10-15T12:58:00.002-07:00

If you are from parts of East and West Africa then you must know about Tecno and how large it has grown for the past years. No doubt we can agree this is the fastest growing mobile manufacturer and supplier in the region and the rate at which it has improved it's products has been fast and for the most part impressive. At the beginning it was more like one of these cheap phones from China that run Android until we saw it step out with it's own Android custom user interface, HiOS followed by a wide range of devices of a wide specification list and price ranges. And the wide price range has been a major factor that put Tecno handsets in all places in this region. We now see Tecno provide even better, even more high-end flagships with the latest current hardware and software and now stepping out of the box to provide even something new but diverse with it's new Tecno DroiPad10 Pro II, Remix OS.

The DroiPad10 Pro II runs Jide's custom Android OS called Remix OS. This Tablet PC runs version 2 of this OS, which Android 5.1 Lollipop underneath. Remix OS is the next generation and set the foundation for Android OS built mainly for PC and any device with a large screen like this tablet. Remix OS takes advance of the large display and processing power of these devices to bring a Windows OS-like user interface. This will include a Start Button with it's own Start Menu and a Task Bar that goes along with it. Remix OS brings with it keyboard shortcuts similar to those designated within Windows for PC. It also allows you transfer app icons and put files to the desktop screen like you would on a desktop OS and comes with a sidebar notification panel, again similar to that in Windows 10.

Remix and Phoenix OS, The Android Based Computer Systems

What happens to be the most important feature Remix OS brings and the main reason as to why we're writing about it here is the fact that Remix comes with a free-form floating window feature that allows you run any app within it's own floating window with minimize, maximize and close buttons on that window. Apps can also be resized. This allows for easy and simplified multi-tasking within app for the fact that you can open as many apps and switch from one to another at will.

The free-form floating window feature is nothing new to native desktop operating systems like MacOS, Windows or Linux that we've used from the past but it's impressive to know that an OS natively built for mobile devices can be modified to reach such potential to provide such features that qualify it to be used as one of your desktop operating systems.

Despite the fact that Remix OS is basically Android (Runs Android apps) underneath, it is an impressive thing to see it behaves similar to the powerful systems that were designed for PC and even a pleasing thing to see a manufacturer like Tecno take advantage of that by using this new system in it's latest and tablet PCs yet to come.

With that being said, you have the option to try out Remix OS for PC. Yes, you can easily install it alongside your Windows OS or install it on your flash disk and carry the entire fully functional system around like that, or simply run it within a Windows App that Jide calls the most Advanced Android Emulator: Remix OS Player.

(click images to expand)

++Tecno+DroiPad10+Pro+II++

A Look at Avast's Own Browser: SafeZone Browser

2016-10-11T03:29:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I tried Avast antivirus. It was personally my favorite antivirus until the release of Windows 10 and found no big use for it after. As Windows 10 users (if you are like me), we will admit Windows Defender, that built-in Windows malware protection has proved to be more effective and in a sense you may not really need an extra third-party antivirus software if you continue to update Windows Defender.

For no convincing reason, I decided to give Avast antivirus a try and without my knowledge a new browser icon was created on my desktop after Avast installation. The icon indicates 'Avast SafeZone Browser'.

At first glance you'd think it another feature built into Avast antivirus but this a browser that automatically installs when a user install the latest Avast antivirus and what could perhaps be annoying is installing such additional software without letting the user know.

Avast SafeZone was actually a mere Chrome extension made by Avast that provided a full privacy when a user opened an address to any bank service online.

SafeZone is now full independent browser based on the Chromium Project. So underneath it's right to say it's Chrome Browser but a modified and somewhat light version of Chrome. We've seen similar Chromium based browsers emerge like most of use now are familiar with Opera Browser or Torch Browser and so many others out there... all Chromium based. And because SafeZone is Chromium based, it'll support all Chrome extensions.

click image to enlarge

As it's name suggests and the fact that it's built by the creators of one the best antivirus software around, Avast SafeZone is built on the core foundation of privacy and security. For some reason, running Avast SafeZone makes you feel safe, even when in the deep web you're protected. And it's not just the feeling but the browser itself comes with a few useful features. From a built-in Ad-blocker to block annoying Ads on sites to Video Downloader to let you save video content from streaming sites like YouTube, Webpage filter to prevent access to any unsafe sites, Password manager to safely keep and remember all passwords you enter into any login web form and most importantly Avast Bank Mode: what looks to be the most secure feature to use when doing online banking or transactions.

click image to enlarge

Perhaps the most useful features here are those that aim to bring total security and privacy like Bank Mode. Whenever you use SafeZone to browse the Internet, it automatically opens banking sites in Bank Mode. Bank Mode isolates your session and protects it from those that could log your keystrokes, eavesdrop on your network, and capture any of your passwords or other personal data. This mode also disables Windows built-in screen capture. You can also manually open Bank Mode on any site with a simple click on the designated icon at the top right corner.

If you have been using other browsers like Firefox or Chrome and wish to use SafeZone as default browser, SafeZone will also let you import all your bookmarks and passwords from those browsers so you don't have to begin afresh.

Quick summary of what SafeZone offers:

SafeZone will:

Filter out web pages that have a poor reputation
Block annoying ads
Allow you to download videos directly from video hosting sites so you can enjoy them anytime.
Stop malicious extensions from being added to your browser
Protect you on banking sites by isolating your browser session so that it can’t be tracked

Again, to get SafeZone, you will have to get the latest Avast Antivirus. You can try the free version. It has proven to work fine for me and offers good protection. It becomes more effective if you create a free Avast account. You can leave a comment to let us know what you think about SafeZone.

AAGet_Avast_AntivirusAA

Get Offline Installer

GBWhatsApp v4.91 Is Here! [LATEST]

2016-10-10T16:07:00.001-07:00

For those of us who don't know what GBWhatsApp is, it's one of the most popular WhatsApp mods by Omar (@atnfas_hoak) that allows users to use up to four different WhatsApp accounts on a single phone. This version of WhatsApp is based on the original official WhatsApp app and is far way highly customizable than the official WhatsApp app. If one is to list every single thing you could do with this version of WhatsApp, the list could go on and on endlessly but the key unique features may be:

Ability to theme every element of the app to your liking manually or use the built-in theme store and apply an already built theme.
Allows you create links of any shared media
Ability to share media to it's maximum quality unlike the official WhatsApp app
Brings more privacy options within chat
Allow you view another use's display picture with chat or group chat
Lets you change the look of launcher icon and notification icon
Lets you run up to four WhatsApp accounts on a single phone

(click images to enlarge)

The list can go on and on. And yes, this reminds you of WhatsApp Plus and the events that took place last year where users of other WhatsApp mods like it were banned to eliminate majority of security threatening apps but at least this version already comes with an Anti-ban feature so no need to worry about getting banned.

Also to metion, this particular mod comes in three kinds: GBWhatsApp, GBWhatsApp Plus and GBWhatsApp 3. The three are based on the same WhatsApp version and they are what you install to allow you use up to three WhatsApp accounts. They behave as different WhatsApp apps that run independent WhatsApp accounts. If for some reason you wish to use a forth account, then install the official WhatsApp app alongside these three.

The latest version GBWhatsApp v4.91 is based on the very latest official WhatsApp app and it also brings along some of the new features within WhatsApp Beta. So some of the new features this version of GBWhatsApp brings include:

Ability to send audio clips upto 100mb in size instead of the default WhatsApp capacity of 16mb
Ability to send to multiple chats at once when sharing or forwarding messages
You can now send GIF
Ability to edit pictures before sending
You can now mention any one in a group by beginning the person's name or contact with an @ symbol and that person will be notified similar to what is done on common social platfoms
Ability to slide your finger up and down to zoom in and out while recording video
A new front-facing flash that helps you capture selfies in the dark

The above including a number of bug fixes on some devices using the previous version.
You can download the three GBWhatsApp versions below:

GBWhatsApp

AADownloadAA

GBWhatsApp Plus

AADownloadAA

GBWhatsApp 3

AADownload_AA

Quick Look at the Google Pixel and Pixel XL

2016-10-04T14:41:00.002-07:00

Google officially unveiled the two devices the Google Pixel and Pixel XL. These are the first phones made by Google. From the past we've known Google for partnering with different manufactures like HTC, Samsung, LG, Huawei but from the looks of it, the Search Giant that has heavily invested in Artificial Intelligence is now making it's way into hardware.

One thing to clarify though that Google doesn't mention is that these two devices actually made by HTC. And just like Apple designs the iPhone in California and it's made in China, Google is designing these phones and using HTC to make them. You will however find no HTC branding on these phone like the previous HTC Nexus phones for Google. All that is available is a letter 'G' at the back of the phones to clearly indicate these are phones from Google.

Looking more into design and outward appearance of these phones, we do notice they are mostly covered in an aluminum construction and a little glass at the back covering the camera modules and fingerprint sensor. The design it self doesn't really come out as outstanding and most people have come to point out that it looks a little like the new iPhones.

The phones come in three colors, Quite Black, Very Silver and the limited edition Really Blue (That's exactly how she called the colors. Watch the event)

Talking about the Operating System and the software over all, these phones do run the latest Android version 7.1 Nougat and updates expected within the following weeks. To make updating these phones easier, these phones will automatically download an update in the background and only update the phone next time and phone is restarted and as the phone boots up the user is already into an updated version of the Operating System.

More to that, Google Assistant, that bot within Google Allo is now built into the phone software as a phone assistant, "Your Personal Assistant". Essentially this is bring human-like interaction between user and phone and like Google Now, the Assistant is summoned by using the key phrase "Okay Google" or by simply holding down the home button. Assistant will then launch and like Siri for the iPhone, it will offer assistance using voice recognition and will also take voice command.

Google Pixel devices will also come with Google Duo pre-installed. Duo is Google's own voice chat app reported to be the perfect Android competitor for Apple's Facetime. It is also available on Play Store for the rest of other Android phones.

Both Google Pixel phones spot a 12.3mp rare camera with Optical Image Stabilization with f2.0 aperture and we're not sure if it was mere exaggeration but Google says this is the best camera in any smartphone because of it's superior image processing technology. Apparently, DxO Labs, a software company based in Boulogne-Billancourt, France, that develops image processing software has given the Pixels a mark of 89, the highest a smartphone has received in regards to image processing by images taken using camera. The iPhone 7 scores 86 and so does the Galaxy S6. The Galaxy S7 comes in at 88 by DxOMark. Well, I guess we should wait for hands on review to confirm how good this camera really is and how stacks up against the competition.

The Pixel phones both pack an 8mp front facing camera with f2.4 aperture.

As a bonus Google Pixel phones come with unlimited Google Photo storage. User don't have to worry about running low on storage. Also to note, photos are videos are to be stored in their original resolution without compression meaning if the video was recorded in 4k, it will be saved to Google Photos in 4k resolution.

The devices are also Daydream ready. It so appears that Google has invested a lot into VR content and Pixels are definitely on top of the best you will get VR content to stream on a smartphone.

Also to note, Google has implemented 24/7 customer service support into these phones to the point that you can chat with a customer service agent regarding any issue with the phones or products and also get to do things like sharing screen to let the agent see what it is you're seeing on screen for better assistance.

Other key specifications of the phones include an AMOLED display at 441ppi for the 5.0 inch Pixel and 534ppi for the Pixel XL with Gorilla Glass 4 on top. They are powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 SoC with 4GB RAM each with on-board storage starting from 32GB to 128GB. They both feature USB Type-C with Non-removable 2,770mAh battery for the Pixel and 3,450mAh for the Pixel XL with fast charging support. Sadly they don't come with wireless charging.

The Pixel and Pixel XL will be available from Verizon and unlocked through the Google Store, with pre-orders starting today. They’ll be compatible with all four major U.S. carriers, too, as well as Project Fi. Pricing starts at $649 for the base model Pixel, or you can pay monthly for $27/month.

This Is Where You Can Watch Google's Oct. 4 #madebygoogle Event

2016-10-04T03:41:00.001-07:00

We have waited quite a while for this event and today is the day. There has been a lot of hype along with numerous leaks of the what to expect from this event the most important of which are the new phones from Google, this time '#madebygoogle' as the hashtag has been making rounds. The new phones are to be called Pixel, in two variants, the Google Pixel and Pixel XL. These apparently are said to mark the end of the Nexus line of phones by Google.

click to enlarge image

Google Pixel Devices will be Launched October 4th

It's not just phones we expect Google to launch. We do expect Google to talk about:

Google Home: A device built to be put in homes that lets you have control of whatever you need by merely speaking to it. We've heard such before from the likes of Amozon with the Amazon Echo. Google is jumping in to bring some competition.

More Android Nougut: Android 7.0 has been around for quite a while. Nexus phones received it via OTA Update and the LG V20 was the first phone to ship with it out of the box but it's reported Google is shipping it's latest Pixel phones with Android 7.1 Nougat an update to 7.0 that brings along bug fixes and a new launcher called the Pixel launcher with a new design and round icons.

The LG V20 is one of a kind. Special. Why?

Andromeda: It's has been mostly rumor but yes, we do expect Google to unveil a new Operating System codename Andromeda which is reported to be a combination of Chrome OS and Android OS. Essentially, it's meant to bring the best of the two systems in one specifically for laptops and tablets.

Chromecast Ultra: Chromecast is expected to receive an update and Chromecast Ultra is reported to support 4K and HDR content.

Google WiFi: This will come in form of a new router from Google. Instead of being a hub just for networking and IoT, the rumored Google WiFi will compete with the Eero home networking mesh system.

Those and perhaps more we expect from the event.

The event will stream live on Google's YouTube channel HERE in about 5 hours from now. There is a clock count down widget on this blog for this specific event. Be sure to catch it.

Facebook Introduces Marketplace, a place where you can Buy or Sell items within your local community

2016-10-03T13:19:00.003-07:00

Facebook has introduced it's own service called Marketplace and this is clearly no new service from what we've had from the likes of eBay and OLX which is surprisingly doing good in growing economies like Africa, Facebook is also joining the competition and this is likely a good move by the social media giant.

Many Facebook users have lately gravitated towards creating Sales groups to buy and sell new and used products on the platform and it only makes sense to have such a thing built within the Facebook App to ease such activity.

With Marketplace you will be able to tap a new icon that will be added within the Facebook app and quickly search through available products posted by users within your location and if pleased by something, you will be able to initiate conversation with the owner of that specific item to carry on with the negotiations to buy that item if you wish.

In case you need to sell something, you will simply take a picture of that specific item, new or old, add a description, price and location to it and then post. Plain simple as that. Facebook will then display items basing on the location indicated basically bring items closest to your location on top of the list.

Users will also be able to post both within Marketplace and any Sales group on Facebook at once if they desired.

click on image to enlarge

Also important to note that Facebook doesn't take part in the transaction or charge anything to have products sold on the platform. It also doesn't protect the buyer in case the item sold turns out to be faulty in any way. All negotiations are solely between buyer and seller.

Does it benefit Facebook in any way? Of course it does. With a service many users will be drawn to the platform and the more users spend time on Facebook, the more Facebook gains when pushing it's own adverts to users. At the end of the day, this will profit both Facebook and users.

Marketplace currently available in the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand on the Facebook app for iPhone and Android with plans to extend it to more countries in the next months.

Facebook Launches Messeger Lite

2016-10-03T07:45:00.001-07:00

Aside Facebook Lite, Facebook Inc. has decided to launch Messenger Lite, a stripped down version of the full Facebook Messenger App. These 'Lite' apps are essentially designed to be used by people who have low-end or mid-range phones with low processing power and low ram. This is the same reason Messenger Lite is being launched in countries with struggling economies like Kenya, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, and Venezuela. With time, it's expected to be launched in more places.

David Marcus, head of messaging products at Facebook Inc announced the launch of this app in his Facebook Post.

Hopefully this is a good move. What do you think?

Have you tried Google's Allo? This is what you need to know about it.

2016-09-22T22:42:00.000-07:00

Allo comes after Duo. This were two Apps Google unveiled and spent time talking about at Google I/O 2016. While the rest of us already use Duo, Google's new simple video chat app, Allo is also out for Android and iOS. So, what is Allo?

Simply put, Allo is another chat app from Google only more polished. We've seen others of that kind from Google like Hangouts to Messages but there is something that makes Allo stand out and I'm here to shade light on that.

Like most chat apps like WhatsApp, Allo will need your number on which your account will be tied to. Basically, you need to register with your phone number. When into the App, you'll be greeted by what appears to be the most productive yet fun feature: Google Assistant chat bot. Well, many Android users expected this assistant as more of a standalone app or just an addition onto Google Now Assistant to go head on with the likes of Siri on the iPhone but interesting turn of events, this assistant is baked right within Allo. Google Assistant is simply Google Now app with a human-like nature to it. Google Assistant is always available to chat like any human on the other end within the app would do yet avail you will all the info you need right there within the conversation. You couldn't ask the assistant just about anything and it will quickly provide the most appropriate answer. It can provide information from weather, location, suggestions of places, trending topics, set reminders, anything from Google and yet be available for normal conversation in case you feel bored. It also tells jokes.

Google Assistant can also come in handy if you are chatting with someone else or with group chat. You can summon Assistant by typing @google followed by whatever you need. Assistant will quickly pop in and assist.

For the most part you'd thing Allo is more about Google Assistant but Allo's uniqueness extents far than that.

Like most popular chat apps you can initiate conversation with another Allo user and if they aren't a user, you can send that person an invite that is received to them in form of a text message with a link for them to download and install the app. You can as well create groups. Other features within chat may include:

Shout and Whisper: With this, like you'd type a message, you can hold down the send button that reveals a slider. Sliding up widens the letters to make then appear huge within a conversation which would suggest shouting or trying to draw attention and sliding down makes letters appear small thus whispering.

Smart Reply: During tying assistant will suggest a number of phrases you can use to reply basing on a particular conversation or photo shared. All you need is tap onto the phrase and it's sent. Assistant will then study your pattern to improve on phrase suggestions.

Ink: With Allo before you send a picture you can choose to add text or doodle on it to either put more emphasis on it or simply for the fun bit of it.

Sticker: Allo comes with a few sticker packages to use. You no longer have to rely only on emojis. Some stickers are static and other are animated. You can also add more sticker if you wish. They're available for download.

Incognito Mode: This we've seen in some apps out there and Allo allows you do the same. In this mode, messages are end-to-end encrypted and Google doesn't make a backup of these messages. They are secure and within this private discreet dialog you can set a time when the messages sent will expire and after that time, they'll never be available to anyone.

One thing to note though is that Allo is still in it's early stages and Google promises a lot of improvement on this chat app. It's a fan app yet productive. Be sure to give it a try.

Download APK

What to expect from the upcoming Tecno Phantom 6 and 6 Plus

2016-09-22T17:13:00.002-07:00

From what we know, the Tecno is set to launch it's latest flagships the Tecno Phantom 6 and 6 Plus on 25th this month in Dubai and it doesn't hurt to wonder what this manufacture has to offer in these two devices. From the looks of it, the predecessor might have not been well perceived having many of Tecno users go it's Camon C line ie C8 and C9 in favor of a great camera that was largely advertised, and no doubt many users admitted the Camon C8 for example took better shots. Something to note however, the Tecno Phantom 5 was the very first Tecno phone to feature a fingerprint scanner and a bump in RAM size to 3GB. The Phantom 6 and 6 Plus may be taking specifications to a whole new level.

A lot has been rumored but we tried to get the latest on what to expect of these two phones comes Sunday when they will be launched.

Design
Just like their predecessor, the two phones are expected to take on a mental casing however with a high premium plastic rim made from aluminum-magnesium alloy. Metal housing seems to be the trend with most high-end smartphones today and it makes sense to see Tecno stick with the same.

Display
There is rumor that the Phantom 6 is expected to have an 5.5-inch AMOLED display similar to Samsung flagships with resolution of 1920 by 1080 resolution, and the Phantom 6 Plus with a 6.0-inch LCD IPS display with Full HD of same resolution. In this case judging by the fact that AMOLED displays have proven to be the most loved and appreciated by users for their over saturated colors and sharp content, it's only safe to say the Phantom 6 will have a better display of the two.

Camera
Of late Tecno phones have packed some of the best cameras around especially in their Camon C line that focuses on camera quality. Essentially, their most powerful phones have to take the best camera optics the company can put in a phone.

The Phantom 6 this time round is expected to house a dual-lens camera configuration of 13mp and 5mp modules at the back and an 8mp module on the front with flash as usual. The Phantom Plus on the other hand is expected to have a 21mp Sony sensor as rare camera and 13mp on the front.

Other features
Both phones are said to be powered by a Deca-core Mediatek CPU the first of it's kind in Tecno phones with 3GB RAM in the Phantom 6 and 4GB RAM in the Phantom 6 Plus. Both phones will come with 64GB on-board storage with memory card expansion slots. They are both expected to carry a fingerprint scanner mounted at the back.

From the video, we can also tell they're likely to have USB Type-C instead of the normal micro USB ports we've seen in their previous phones. If indeed this will be true, Mediatek Pump Express technology may be a feature these phones might take on allowing them to have the ability to charger faster compared to all previous phones just like we see in Samsung phones with their Fast Charge technology and Quick Charge technology in the rest of other flagship phones using new Qualcomm Snapdragon SoCs.

Those and many more in detailed we shall see on Sunday 25th September when the two phones are officially unveiled.

Simplenote quickly takes your notes, you will never lose them and you’ll find them anywhere

2016-09-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

There are a number applications one would wish to install their phones first before checking out any other and this is one of them I would recommend to be one of them to install first. Often times we find ourselves in a scenario where we need to take a few quick notes or copy and paste something somewhere for future reference, something we won't be able to lose and Simplenote comes in handy here.

Simplenote is a quick note taking app, and yes there are many quick note taking apps out there from Google's Keep to Evernote to Microsoft's OneNote among others but what may set Simplenote apart?

Well, from simplicity and being a light-weight app Simplenote comes free unlike some note taking apps that may be a little sized with bulky features. Simplenote comes with a very simple user interface with both light and dark themes depending on the user’s preference.

Just like other advanced note taking apps Simplenote comes with auto-sync feature that lets users notes accessible on any device within the same account created. This is by far one of the apps with a quick sync feature. You never have to worry about losing your notes once they’ve been taken and most importantly you can access the same notes using any devices connected like a computer or tablet. And because it’s synchronized data, whatever changes made on notes on any devices, the same will be reflected across all devices that has the app installed within the same account.

Users can also secure the app thereby securing their notes by adding a password. Once the app is opened, the user is then prompted to enter a password to gain access to notes.

Another feature the app provides is to allow users generate a link to a particular note to quickly share their it to the public as read-only text which comes in handy if there is some quick information in text form you wish to share publicly with a group of people.

Simplenote is available on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux and can also be accessed within any web browser.

What notes app are you using and what do you think about Simplenote?

Google Pixel Devices will be Launched October 4th

2016-09-20T14:53:00.003-07:00

It's official. The phones from Google expected replace the Nexus line of phones we've known from way back will be launched 4th October at 9am Pacific Time. Unlike Nexus phones made by different manufacturers 'for Google', these are made by Google and Google emphasizes that in a tweet.

October is coming. #madebygoogle https://t.co/UNMr2cJXhk pic.twitter.com/LzyswaEBjh
— Google (@google) September 20, 2016

However, there is rumor that HTC has a hand in the actual manufacturing of these devices but we know that they will most likely not take on any HTC branding like the Nexus phones did in relation to whichever manufacturer made them.

Event Count Down

The LG V20 is one of a kind. Special. Why?

2016-09-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

It wasn't only the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus that were announced that day. The LG V20 was also unveiled that same day only a few hours earlier. This very phone made history in the Android ecosystem for being the very first smartphone to ship with Android 7.0 Nougat and not just that but the very first phone that's not a Nexus to ship with the newest Android version.

Like, it's predecessor the LG V10, the V20 brings along a second highly customizable always on display screen up top and unlike the V10, the V20 spots two camera sensors at the back, one for wide angle shots and another for high resolution shots. Like latest flagships it comes with a fingerprint sensor. It's equipped with four DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) for high quality audio output the first we've seen in a smartphone. This will undoubtedly deliver great in audio.

Tecno's Camon C9 Plus. What's new?

2016-09-11T07:53:00.001-07:00

Tecno Camon C9 Plus recently released by Tecno Mobile comes after it's Camon C9 that mainly focuses on the front facing camera, that big crisp 13MP sensor with biomentric iris scanning technology, which is actually the same exact sensors on the back of the phone. A flash also on the front. It's definitely one of the best selfie camera in a phone you could pick up around here in Uganda.

You could be curious curious as to why this is the "Plus". What's new? Well, the "Plus" model simply pushes the original C9 RAM to 3GB from 2GB and internal storage space to 32GB from 16GB. This raises it's price to UGX 630,000 from UGX 550,000 of the regular Camon C9 making a price difference of only UGX 80,000.

Is the difference worth picking up the Camon C9 Plus instead of the C9? I'd definitely say yes! A more fluid experience plus more storage space on additions to those special camera features.

WhatsApp Beta now has Stickers and Scribbling just like Snapchat.

2016-09-10T14:45:00.002-07:00

WhatsApp Beta is that WhatsApp version given to WhatsApp users who wish to test new features WhatsApp wants to bring to the official final WhstsApp version that most of us use. Not every feature is guaranteed to make it to the final version but we've seen many end up in the official version.

So basically, Beta testers get to try out the new cool features first, like this one.
Anyone can become a tester or WhatsApp Beta user. All you need is follow this link, sign up to be a tester and you'll be given the WhatsApp Beta App.

Taskbar App brings perfect Freeform Multi-window feature to Android 7.0 Nougat.

2016-09-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

With multi-window feature now built into stock Android Nougat, Taskbar App is taking advantage of that to bring even more and better implemented freeform multi-windows capability to Android. It comes in handy especially if you have a tablet running Android Nougat. You could also use it it on phone.

In this case, Android gets more productive with Android 7.0 Nougat.

A Quick Summary About What's New About the New iPhone

2016-09-08T01:22:00.005-07:00

Apple event that was supposed to debut the new "7" took place hours ago and a lot was said the fact that the event went on for about two hours. As I had promised, I was making quick updates with images on the Facebook Page.

A number of new accessories were unveiled like the new Apple Watch Series 2, a new Watch in collaboration with Nike called the Apple Watch Nike+ intended for sporty people, the first ever wireless from Apple called the EarPods, which are essentially normal Apple earpods without wire code and a double-tap gesture added to them to summon Siri, and the usual EarPods themselves only this time connect to iPhone via lightening port (exactly the port where you charge your iPhone from).

All that being said the focus of the event was the new iPhones as expected and of course everyone is interested to know what is really new about them. We may have a few new things about them and I mention them quickly below:

Two New Phone Models

Earlier there were rumors that suggested three different iPhones to be unveiled but at event it was confirmed there are only two phones and that is the 4.7-inch iPhone 7 and 5.5-inch iPhone 7 Plus all with the usual IPS display technology with Apple's Retina HD Technology supposed to give a sharper and brighter screen but most likely not as sharp as an OLED Panel from the likes of Samsung. Many expected an OLED panel in these two model but well, maybe next yeah.

Design and Color

The previous iPhone 6 generation have those 2 network line at the back, and the new iPhones still have them though pushed to the further top and bottom and slimmed down almost pushed inside the case, they are barely visible. The back of the phones look flat.

The two new models come in five different colors: Rose Gold, Gold, Silver, Black and Jet Black. The Black and Jet Black were highlighted the most in the event.

Home Button

As earlier believed, the home button is no longer a physical button but more of a pressure sensitive non-clickable flat surface that of course looks like a button. It uses the same 3D technology in the previous iPhone screens to determine how much pressure applied on the button and therefore works like a physical button. It's implementation this time round can also used through-out the phone system and third-party app developers will be able to configure it to do any task they wish within their apps

Camera

The iPhone 7 comes with one single bigger camera module at the back with sightly improved optics and an f1.8 aperture that essentially allows in more light into the module for brighter shots in low light conditions. Do take note that the low the number, the bigger the aperture and the more the light allowed to enter into the modules.

The iPhone 7 Plus on the other hand has two camera modules at the back and obviously take better shots than the iPhone 7. The two sensor are meant to give you better and more optical zoom to an image you need to take especially if it's far away yet keep it sharp, vibrant and add a DSLR effect to it to put it in plain focus.

No Headphones Jack

The traditional 3.5mm headphone jack to place old Apple earpods is gone. The new earpods come with a lightening connector and can be connected to the new iPhones via lightening port, same place you charge your iPhone from. Not many desired this approach but to let users of old earpods put them to purpose with the new phones, Apple introduced a lightening port adapter with a 3.5mm port at the end to allow users with 3.5mm earpods connect to the new phones.

Apple also tossed in the new wireless "AirPods" that seamlessly pair with any Apple product be it and iPhone, iPod, iPad or MacBook.

Dust and Water Resistant

Well, we could say the previous iPhone 6s and 6s Plus had this incorporated but now it's official in the new phones. They're officially IP67 certified meaning their dust and water resistant. This simply means you should never worry about them dropping in water or under rain. They are water resistant up to 50 meters deep and that's a bold statement and improvement Apple made.

Better Stereo Speakers

Yes the speaker on the bottom is still one and downward facing but Apple has gone ahead and put another stereo speaker at the top where the earpiece lives. The new iPhones have two stereo speakers now. This is a good upgrade as far as audio is concerned and no doubt the output is expected to be better.

New Processor

The new iPhones use Apple's latest chip called the A10 Fusion. This is a 4-core chip that's believed to be the most powerful in a smartphone. 2 cores for simple tasks and 2 more for heavier tasks. And as far as benchmarks show, this is a true beast of a mobile processor and I wouldn't argue about it's performance. Benchmarks reveal the iPhone 7 processor out performs all previous generation iPhones including the latest iPad Pro that has 4GB of RAM

Storage Space

The new iPhones only come in storage configuration of 32GB, 128GB and the newest and biggest 256GB.

Pricing

The iPhone 7 starts at $649 which is roughly the same price as the last iPhone 6s Plus and the iPhone 7 Plus starts and $769 and will be available next week.

Other accessories like the Apple AirPods cost $169, new lightening EarPods at $29 and Apple Watch Series 2 at $369

What do you think of the new iPhones? Are they a major upgrade or not? Any thing more you need to know or want to leave a suggestion and further explanation? Leave it in the comment section.

[UPDATE 2] Here Is How You Will Watch The Apple iPhone7 Event Online

2016-09-07T15:59:00.000-07:00

Update 2!

Apple is actually streaming the event live on YouTube for everyone who can't stream the live event using previous Apple's recommended options on their official site. Find the live stream on YouTube Here

Update!
CNET will be streaming the event live on YouTube for everyone who can't stream the live event using Apple's recommended options. Find the live stream on YouTube Here

Original Article:

By now you must know that one of the most anticipated events is the launch of the new iPhone 7. A lot of rumors surrounding this device have been circulating all over the web which also included a lot of unrealistic concepts but on Wednesday 7th September (Today) is when the new devices are going to be launched and official specifications announced. Yes, we expect to see two new iPhones, the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.

We will be able to catch this event live on Apple's Events Site and Apple has clarified that live streaming on this site uses Apple’s HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) technology, and HLS requires:

- A Phone, iPad, or iPod touch with Safari on iOS 7.0 or later
- A Mac with Safari 6.0.5 or later on OS X v10.8.5 or later
- PC with Microsoft Edge on Windows 10
- An Apple TV (2nd or 3rd generation) with software 6.2 or later or an Apple TV (4th generation)

We also do expect some channels on YouTube to rebroadcast this event as it streams live to benefit majority of us who normally use Chrome and Firefox browser of YouTube App on other Mobile Platforms like Android for that matter. I will be updating this article to let you know which channel to look out for.

Apple’s iPhone 7 keynote starts at 10AM PT, 1PM ET, 6PM GMT, 7PM CET and 10:30PM IST on September 7. You can check the count down below to know the time left to the event.

Are you watching the event?

What We Expect To See About The New iPhones in a Few Hours

2016-09-07T05:26:00.000-07:00

Apple's iPhone 7 Event is a about to go live in a few hours and so far, after all the rumors we've heard at least we know what it is to expect about the new waited for devices.

1. Two New iPhones
Two Phones are expected to be unveiled, one a 4.7-inch regular iPhone 7 and another 5.5-inch iPhone 7 Plus.

2. Slight Change in Design
The antenna lines in the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus removed and placed at the very top and bottom to give a more flat back.
A pressure sensitive home button using a technology similar to 3D Touch on iPhone screens is expected this time rather than a physical button.

3. Improved Camera
The iPhone 7 is expected to have a large improved camera module compared to the 6s and 6s Plus. The iPhone 7 Plus on the other hand is expected to spot a Dual-Camera configuration for sharper image taken and a DSLR effect added.

4. No Headphone Jack
It's been rather controversial but yes, the new devices are expected not to have a headphone Jack and so will use wireless earphones

5. Bigger Onboard Storage
The phones are expected to carry storage space ranging from 32GB to 256GB. No 16GB variant is expected this time.

6. Better Processor
The phones are expected to carry the latest and most powerful generation of Apple processor chip, the Apple A10 chip.

7. iOS 10
iOS 10 was announced a few months back and Beta builds released and these two new phones are expected to run iOS 10 out of the box.

Other minor improvement expected may be better water resistance (if not water proof) and improved stereo speakers.

From what we've known about Apple, there is always something to see that was expected so we wait for see if they have something mind blowing to wow us with.

The event begins in a few hours. Will you watch? What do you think of the expectations of the two phones?

How To Access Android Storage Files Remotely Using PC

2016-06-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

I have written similar guides as this one on this blog that show how to access files remotely but perhaps not something as this. In this guide I want to show you how you can easily access your full storage files in your phone using your PC for easy file transfer to phone or PC. This guide will eliminate the use of USB Cable for file transfer and you'll have to adopt a much more convenient and quicker way to transfer files wirelessly.

You will need both PC and Phone to be connected to the same wireless network for example the same router. If in any case you do not have a physical router in place, you will resort to using Connectify Hotspot, a Windows app that creates virtual router from your PC. In that sense, after connecting your phone to the created wireless network, it will appear as though both PC and phone are connected to the same network.

The idea is to use the same wireless network to transfer files between the two devices.

You'll also need an Android app called Es File Explorer that will provide the address to put into the address bar of any window on your PC. The address provided will be the address to your mobile phone storage. The view format will be no different from opening up any folder on your PC.

STEPS

1. Connect both PC and Phone to the same network

2. Open Es File Explorer on phone

3. Tap the hamburger menu icon and under Network tab, select Remote Manager

4. Turn on the service

5. Put the address provided exactly as it is in the address bar of the window on your PC

6. Press the Enter button and you should be able to see your phone storage files on your PC

You can then transfer files as you wish.

Remix and Phoenix OS, The Android Based Computer Systems

2016-06-15T04:48:00.000-07:00

Android x86 has always been a project that aimed to bring Android OS to traditional desktop computers and it has been successful for the past few years. But for the most part, it was more of something to try and not a platform you'd really rely on because it brought mere tablet Android OS experience to desktops and as far as we could tell, it has a lot of limitations since that kind of OS is specifically designed for tablet experience that are obviously touch based. Also, the experience wasn't far from and Android phone user's experience. Basically, it wasn't there yet, per say. There was a lot lucking that wouldn't let anyone consider as something worth sticking with.

Thankfully, we've got a group of people that have taken it and stepped it up a notch, rebuilt and redesigned Android x86 to suit the perfect desktop experience. The first group of people are the ones over at Jide who released Remix OS. A one of a kind Android OS based on Android x86 project that has a user experience not far from Windows.

But, as per most users reviews at the time this post is published, there is slow development at Jide on Remix OS and it's still a beta build so many have opted for the newer iteration; Phoenix OS that feels more like a finished product and more appealing to the majority. Slow development doesn't mean there will not be any Remix OS updates however.

Phoenix OS, just like the latest Beta update of Remix OS, let you either install the OS on a flash disk that can be used in any computer it's plugged in or be installed permanently on a hard disk. You can also decide to dual-boot it alongside your current OS for example Windows with no hustle. They both come with an easy to use installer so you don't have to get all geeky installing either on PC.

As earlier said, the experience you'll get from either of these two is a more Windows-like experience. You'll have a start menu, taskbar where any app that is running or one you'd like to pin gets docked, multi-window display and multitasking, recycle bin, file explorer, notification panel and also get to use your keyboard and mouse the way you would on Windows. The only difference here is the fact that this is Android underneath and therefore you'll need Android Apps to run on this OS. Either of these two will be recommended for any PC that tends to run slow on Windows for the fact that they're light systems.

We may argue that Windows will be stronger in performance in comparison with either of these two but realistically, Android has come too far and everyday there is an app published that may help do what Windows can. There is nothing huge you will be losing unless you're hardcore Windows user or some kind of developer.

Take for example, with either Remix or Phoenix you can have media players for both audio and video of all formats (MX Player), file explorer (Es File Explorer), archive creators and extractors, document viewers and word processors (Microsoft Office available on Android), Web Browsers, Photo editors, Games to mention but a few. This may include all advances you may have using Android over Windows. Typical functionality for any regular user unless you want to run a specific application not available on Android.

Currently, I personally recommend Phoenix OS.

It can operate on Intel x86 devices. It can be installed either on a USB key or the hard disk (keeping the original file system untouched).

Recommended computer configuration: recent Intel x86 computers from within the last 5 years and memory being larger than 2G.

How to install:

Download the Phoenix OS (x86) installation program. Run the installation program in Windows selecting USB or hard disk install.

Precautions:

It is recommended to use Intel Atom CPU devices for best compatibility.
When installing to a USB key use a high-performance one with more than 4G capacity. Lower-speed USB key will slow down the system.
While the installation to the hard disk will not touch the existing data, it is always best to make a full backup beforehand.

Download Phoenix OS Installer --1.0.8-RC (Or visit official download page)

However, if you need to give Remix OS a try and compare the two for yourself, head over to the official Remix OS for PC download page.

How To Access Computer Files Wirelessly From Another Computer or Phone (Using Connectify Hotspot)

2016-04-03T09:03:00.000-07:00

I recently shared an application called Connectify Hotspot in an earlier post, an application meant to create a virtual router within a PC to share internet access to other devices. Within the same post I mentioned it's not limited to that functionality but also lets users share files wirelessly. It's within this post that I will explain how it can be used to for the second purpose.
Accessing files remotely in this case works on a concept that if two computers are connected to the same wireless network provided by a local router, one or both of the computers can be configured to have their files accessible remotely from any of the two computers or any other computer connected to the same network. So if two computers are used then a router has to be in place which makes three devices. Also to note, internet access is not required to share files. All that's needed is the wireless connection.

The only tiny difference in this case is that the router being used here is not a physical one but a virtual one created within one of the two computers. This is virtual router that Connectify Hotspot creates. So instead of having three devices in place, all one needs are two computers that will share data and Connectify Hotspot installed either of the two. When Connectify Hotspot is started in either of the two computers, it creates a hotspot onto which another computer or phone connects. Simply implies that the computer from which the hotspot is created also contains the virtual router and at the same time will behave as though it's connected to the same virtual router..

Without the necessary configuration, even if a router is in place and two computers are connected to it, one can't access files from another computer connected to that network.

To be able to access files in another computer, specific drives or folders have to be shared.

How to share drives or folders
Let's take for example one wishes to share a full drive on a network (Local Disk D: For example)

1. Right-Click on Local Disk (D:) and click on 'Properties'

2. A dialog box will open. Click on the 'Sharing' tab

3. Click on 'Advanced Sharing' and another dialog box will open

4. Check 'Share this folder'

5. Click on 'Permissions' and another dialog box should open

6. Click on 'Add' and another dialog box should open

7. Type "Everyone" in the provided box and click OK

8. Highlight 'Everyone' and check 'Full Control'

(Note: You may not check 'Full Control' and choose a few permissions depending on what you want if you don't need another computer or device to have total control over your files when allowed to access them. I will give a general guide to give a general overview)

9. Click 'Apply', 'OK', the same on the next earlier opened dialog box

10. Click on the 'Security' tab on the 'Properties' dialog box

11. Click on 'Edit' then 'Add'

12. Type "Everyone" in the provided box and click OK

13. Highlight 'Everyone' and check 'Full Control'

14. Click 'Apply'

15. Click 'Continue' on any dialog box that may display

16. Click 'OK' and close the 'Properties' dialog box

Now Local Disk (D:) (or any selected Local Disk) can now be seen on a network, it's content modified and shared from a remote computer allowed to access it.
The same procedure can be used to share independent folders to easily access them on a network rather than accessing them through a shared disk.

Note:
On a system disk (usually Local Disk (C:) on many computers), to have files easily shared, the above procedure must be carried out on the Local Disk and independent folders to be shared for example 'Documents', 'Pictures', 'Music', 'Videos', 'Downloads' have to also be shared using that same procedure above. You can access such folders in System Disk (C:)>>Users>>[Account Name]>>[Folders]. You will not be able to access these folders on a network through the system disk if they are not independently shared. This only applies to system disk.

Now the necessary devices have been shared but there are some other few network settings that may need to be changed for easy access.

- Go to Windows start menu (or Search on task bar) and search for "Network and Sharing Center" and click on it to open

- Click on 'Change advanced sharing settings'

- Expand 'Private (current profile)' and enable 'Turn on network discovery' and the rest as shown

- Expand 'Guest or Private' and do the same as shown below

- Expand 'All Networks' and enable the following as shown

(Note: Turn password protection sharing to prevent anyone connected to your network from accessing files anyhowly or Turn it off if you wish to easily access files without login credentials prompt)

- Save changes

At this point, all the configuration is done. To access shared files, Connectify Hotspot should be started on one computer and another should join that network created by Connectify. Once connected to access shared files the user should go to 'Network' section. The user should as well turn on Network Discovery to view connected devices if any prompt displays.

Once the connected device is opened, the connected device should be seen.

The shared drives/folders on the connected computer will be displayed when the connected device is seen (You may need to refresh the window if the shared files don't display instantly)

To access files from phone (Android)

Here we can use a popular app called ES File Explorer (On Play Store)

1. Install ES File Explorer

2. Connect phone to Wi-Fi created by Connectify Hotspot from PC

3. Open ES File Explorer

4. Tap on the humbugger menu on the top left

5. Expand 'Networks' section and tap on 'LAN'

6. Depending on the ES File Explorer layout chosen, there should be a 'scan' option

7. Scan for any connected devices

8. You should see the computer that provides the hotspot (on which shared drives/folders are) and any computer that may be connected to that Wi-Fi hotspot)

9. Open it and you should see the shared content.

Done!

You can then view remotely, open or play remotely, copy/cut to and from, delete or modify as you please, remotely.