LG Innotek Unveils Button-less Fingerprint Sensor Module

Fingerprint sensors are not exactly a new feature to grace our phones. They have been around for a quite some time, with one of the first commercial Android smartphone to bear it being the Motorola Atrix 4G, way back in 2011, even predating the launch of the first Samsung Galaxy Note.

But one thing unanimous with fingerprint sensors, a talking point that has remained relevant from their start to their current forms, is how they blend in with the design of the phone. In the case of the Motorola Atrix 4G, the fingerprint scanner doubled up as the power button, but the placement of this button scanner gave the phone a very distinguished look in its prime time.

Even with current smartphones, OEMs have to make a decision on where they want to place the fingerprint scanner. Many have opted for placing it on the back of the device, some have opted for clubbing it on the side mounted power button. Samsung preferred to incorporate the fingerprint scanner onto the home button, which has remained a staple on Samsung devices. Some OEMs even went so far to add a home button on the front just to tuck away the fingerprint scanner. With this latest news, these manufacturers may have no more reason to add in a home button anymore.

LG Innotek’s latest innovation is a fingerprint sensor module that is placed beneath the glass. This module removes the requirement of having a raised button on the front of the device to act as the fingerprint sensor. LG achieved this by creating a shallow furrow on the back of the glass and installing the fingerprint sensor in there. This sensor does not directly come into contact with your finger due to the glass layer, and still manages to boast of similar recognition rates.

With the home button no longer a necessary evil for a front fingerprint scanner, OEMs will now be free to experiment with sleeker and more-minimal phone designs. It will also allow manufacturers to opt for waterproofing and scratch resistant solutions that some had to forego in lieu of the fingerprint scanner button. It will also allow more OEMs to jump back onto using the Navigation Bar instead of capacitive buttons.

As mentioned to Korea Times, LG is in talks with some handset manufacturers to commercialize the new module within the year. So, we might see smartphones with this button-less fingerprint tech by the end of 2016.

Google Publishes May’s Android Security Bulletin – Here’s What’s New

You might remember that last year Google promised to be more transparent with patching security vulnerabilities. Google promised to deliver monthly updates fixing any vulnerabilities they discovered that affected Nexus devices. Eventually, several OEMs have gotten on board with delivering monthly security patches, and eventually the scope of the Nexus Security Bulletin was broadened to discover and patch many general Android security issues. To reflect this change in scope, Google has announced that starting this month, they’ve renamed the Nexus Security Bulletin to the Android Security Bulletin. And as promised, they’ve just posted thismonth’s set of security patches.

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What’s New

This month, Google has identified and patched a total of 25 security vulnerabilities. For the severities of the discovered vulnerabilities, 6 were marked as critical, 12 as high, 6 as moderate, and 1 was marked as low. Of these vulnerabilities, 24 out of 25 affected Nexus or Android One devices. By far the most critical security issue patched by Google was an issue affecting mediaserver which allowed for remote code execution. A user who opened an infected media file from any method (by email, web browsing, MMS, etc.) could have triggered code to remotely executive on their device without your knowledge or consent. According to Google, there have been no reports that this vulnerability was exploited in a real-world setting, at least.

For a list of all other security vulnerabilities discovered and patched by Google, you can read the full Android Security Bulletin for the month of May. As you’ll notice, many of the vulnerabilities discovered are quite broad(such as the ones related to NVIDIA’s video drivers or Qualcomm’s Wi-Fi drivers) and apply to more than just Google’s Nexus devices, so it’s imperative that you accept the update as soon as you are able to no matter what device you use.

In addition, Google stresses the security offered by its SafetyNet and VerifyApps implementation. Per Google:

• Exploitation for many issues on Android is made more difficult by enhancements in newer versions of the Android platform. All users are encouraged to update to the latest version of Android where possible.
• The Android Security team actively monitors for abuse with Verify Apps and SafetyNet, which are designed to warn users aboutPotentially Harmful Applications. Verify Apps is enabled by default on devices with Google Mobile Services, and is especially important for users who install applications from outside of Google Play. Device rooting tools are prohibited within Google Play, but Verify Apps warns users when they attempt to install a detected rooting application—no matter where it comes from. Additionally, Verify Apps attempts to identify and block installation of known malicious applications that exploit a privilege escalation vulnerability. If such an application has already been installed, Verify Apps will notify the user and attempt to remove the detected application.
• As appropriate, Google Hangouts and Messenger applications do not automatically pass media to processes such as mediaserver.

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When do I get the Update?

Luckily for Google Nexus device owners, you should start seeing this update very soon on your device. As usual, the update is rolling out to users in waves so you may or may not receive it immediately. There’s always thefactory image route if you would rather not wait. If you’re waiting for a custom ROM to implement these updates, then you’ll have to wait for the updated source to drop into the AOSP within the next 2 days.

For users on devices made by other manufacturers, your wait time will vary.Google’s partners were notified of these security issues identified in this bulletin by April 4, 2016, so OEMs have had plenty of time patching their own custom builds of Android to fix these security holes. You should expect an update to roll out sometime this month, but remember that these updates always reach people in waves and that OEMs like to bundle their own feature updates alongside these patches, which may delay the update. The Nextbit Robin, for instance, pushed out an update on April 27th that patched the security issues mentioned in April’s security bulletin.

PSA: Long Press and Drag Up on Google Keyboard’s Suggestion Bar to Remove Suggestions

The Google Keyboard 5.0 update went live a few days ago, and it brought along a whole host of changes, notably one-handed mode and adjustable keyboard height. Buried in within the major changes were smaller changes all around, such as cursor control and more. So we wouldn’t fault you if you missed out on some of the small stuff.

One amongst the small stuff is the ability to now remove suggestions from coming up again. The gesture is simple and intuitive, involving just a long press on the unneeded suggestion. This will bring up a trash icon, which you can then drop the unneeded suggestion onto.he Google Keyboard 5.0 update went live a few days ago, and it brought along a whole host of changes, notably one-handed mode and adjustable keyboard height. Buried in within the major changes were smaller changes all around, such as cursor control and more. So we wouldn’t fault you if you missed out on some of the small stuff.

One amongst the small stuff is the ability to now remove suggestions from coming up again. The gesture is simple and intuitive, involving just a long press on the unneeded suggestion. This will bring up a trash icon, which you can then drop the unneeded suggestion onto.

Albeit a small change and not groundbreaking or revolutionary in any way, this will help remove those typos that accidentally get added onto your personal dictionary. It can also be used to remove words that you do not use at all, and that come in the way of more frequently used words while gesture typing.

Sony Patents Contact Lens Camera! LG Button-less Fingerprint Sensor!

Sony has patented a contact lens camera with zoom! LG unveils button-less fingerprint sensor module. Finally, the Chinese OEMs are coming west! Those stories and more are talked about by TK as he covers the news from the week ending May 6, 2016 at XDA-Developer.com. Check out this video!

Atom Is Not Dead And We’re Not Leaving Mobile

Late last week we covered stories reporting the possible death of Intel’s Atom lineup and a presumed withdrawal from the mobile market. Since then we’ve had a chance to speak with Intel’s public relations team and they’ve helped clear a few things up. After getting this additional information it seems that Intel’s decisions are not only reasonable but possibly better in a longer-term picture.

The Future of Atom

Contrary to the worst assumptions, Intel reports that it is not dead. Previously named “Cherry Trail” Atom x5 and x7 SoCs will continue to ship and remain under the Atom branding. So devices powered by it, such as the Microsoft Surface 3, Microsoft HoloLens and even Intel’s own recent refresh of the Atom-based Compute Stick will continue. After Cherry Trail though it seems that things will change.

Intel originally stated that they “will continue to work with OEMs to develop new 2-in-1’s based on Apollo Lake and Core M for detachable 2-in-1’s.” When I followed up on Apollo Lake I was told that it “will support entry/value devices and will be branded Pentium and Celeron.” Atom launched at a time when the Core M branding didn’t exist; now there is significant overlap between the two in terms of functionality, power efficiency and cost. And while Broxton was cancelled, I don’t see anything indicating Willow Trail is also cancelled, leaving open the possibility for Atom to continue even beyond Cherry Trail.

Update: Intel has responded and stated that “…the only product discontinued were Broxton for phones and tablets, SoFIA 3GX, SoFIA LTE, and SoFIA LTE2″ They also clarified that Atom branding has not had any decisions made on it, as well as noting that many Pentium and Celeron products are based on Atom design (such as Bay Trail).

Intel and Mobile Data

One of the other prevalent myths was that Intel might be folding up its tent and ceding the mobile market to the likes of Qualcomm, Samsung and Mediatek. To address this Intel pointed to the blog post from Intel CEO Brian Krzanich on April 26th. In there he notes:

“As the world moves to 5G, Intel will lead because of our technological strength to deliver end-to-end 5G systems, from modems to base stations to all the various forms of connectivity that exist today and will exist tomorrow.”

I was confused when I read this because there is no 5G specification — 3GPP is taking steps to have one in place by 2018; some of the active players are already labeling candidate technologies as 5G, such as Samsung. Intel is pushing hard for all things related to the Internet of Things, a concept that suggests almost everything can and eventually will be “wired” in some aspect.

To get the data is one thing, but the data has to be sent back somewhere for analysis and use — and in many cases of growth, that still requires a mobile signal. One only has to look at their own graphic to see how important they place this.

The missing piece to this puzzle is this: SoFIA wasn’t the only modem Intel had. Yes, it was the one integrated with Atom; but beyond that integration Intel has several other models, all which still seem to be alive and well. Any of these could easily still be paired with a processor, now likely with Pentium or Core M on Intel. It could even pair with SoCs from another manufacturer, such as the rumored deal with Apple. And since they’ll want to grow that business they’ll need to support it on the platforms which it could be used on, including Android.

The moves announced by Intel seem like a company looking forward and dropping what isn’t working. Atom marches on with a focus away from the very low end and full integration. Keeping the Atom x5 and x7 allows them to work on products that offer support, like 4K displays, that Intel can best market to. The theory of Intel’s demise in the mobile scene seem to be greatly exaggerated as well. Whether those For those who believe we need more players in the mobile scene, it has to be welcomed news in contrast to the articles originally written last week on the topic.

Anker PowerHouse: Portable Power for More Than Smartphones And Laptops

When most of us think of Anker, the first thought that comes to mind is smartphones. They are one of the more well-known players in aftermarket solutions for charging and batteries. So when Anker announced last month that they were going to release something called the PowerHouse, a 430 watt-hour battery with multiple charging methods as well as discharge methods… that got the attention of many of its customers. So when I recently received my PowerHouse from Amazon, I figured it was time to put it through the paces and see what it could do.

Let’s first start off with the reminder that this is not a power generator. It is though a very large battery. The initial charge took less than 4 hours to get a full charge; charges from a full discharge are estimated between 8 to 10 hours. While it is not available yet, a very important feature will be the option of purchasing solar panels which can fully charge the PowerHouse with 16 hours of sunlight. And if you don’t fully discharge it each day, that makes the charge a likely solution for the camper, so long as they’re not parked under trees. And when looking at the side panel to see what can be charged, it becomes obvious that this opens many possibilities.

There are 3 options for connecting to the PowerHouse:

• A 12V cigarette lighter port (120W max)
• 4 USB ports that support up to 5V max
• A 120V AC plug with max draw of 1.36A (About 160W draw)

Enabling a charger is as simple as pressing the button above each charge option. As power starts to discharge a timer estimating hours remaining at current draw will begin to update. To turn off the discharge, either unplug and/or press the button again. USB also seems to support up to Quick Charge 2.0 but a test with the LG G5 indicated that 3.0 is not supported. Anker even offers a few suggestions on what the PowerHouse can power, but what about things not on the list?

• Office Desktop: I was able to power my PC (HP Prodesk 600 G1 SFF w/i7-4790K), 2 LCD monitors and my office LAN switch.  But turn on my printer (HP Laserjet M401dn) and it was too much for the PowerHouse. My estimated draw would have let me power for several hours, handy for short power outages.
• Home Refrigerator: Obviously people’s results will vary here since the size and power draw of a refrigerator may vary. Anker indicates that a mini fridge can be powered for at least 7 hours – but my full-size refrigerator was under the draw limit as well. It may not last long, but that short time may be enough to help someone find an alternative for their frozen foods if power isn’t restored promptly.
• Living Room: My TV (Sony Bravia KDL-40HX800), cable box and cable modem were all under the draw limit. Perhaps not good in a power outage but might work for parties.
• Lights: Anker notes a camping light will be supported but owners could easily power a floor lamp or string of lights with the PowerHouse. Again, great for power outages and for outdoor use, but by no means a long-term power solution without charging.In the office, I found a few unique solutions as well. The USB ports allowed me to keep power to tablets as I needed to apply OTAs as part of their initial setup – an option that before would have required me to get a long extension cord with a power strip at the end to plug in multiple tablets. The availability of power long enough for road trips also meant I could keep the family iPad Mini plugged in and have power for the 8-hour drives that we occasionally make. This could easily also work to power a person’s CPAP system while camping or on the go, or possibly with a low enough draw support a projector. While the PowerHouse does a lot of good it’s also important to compare to competitors already in the scene – and so I looked up the specifications on a Goal Zero Yeti 400. The Yeti is similar in specifications but the differences are something that Anker should really consider looking to add to the PowerHouse. The Yeti allows for a 300W power draw with a 600W power burst, which could offer larger options such as DJ usage at events or parties. It can also be chained, which the PowerHouse does not appear to support. I am trying to confirm this with Anker and will update if they respond.
  How about price? Currently, Anker has it priced at $499 on Amazon – about $50 more than the Yeti 400 and offers more power. When considering how long the life of such a portable power solution would be it’s easy to see how someone who is outdoors often or is prone to needing portable power of this strength might easily come out on top by buying one. But short of camping and mobile power cases the PowerHouse is more of a “what if” $499 investment. If you are one to be out camping or outdoors very often and can use this to solve a smaller power need it may be the right choice. Those who may use it very little or not may want to give it some consideration before jumping on one.
  All in all, Anker seems to have pulled off a good product here. With perhaps a bit more aggressive pricing and expansion options like chaining multiple PowerHouses together they could address the small concerns that may hold some back from purchasing this. If you’re a reader that likes Anker products and have been considering a solution like this, the PowerHouse may be right up your alley.
  Pros:
  • 434Wh/120,000 mAh capacity
  • Charging solutions both on AC and solar, allowing for extended use such as road trips and camping
  • Easily supports most needs for a product in this category
  • Power time remaining is very handy when it updates
  Cons:
  • Priced slightly higher than competitors like the Goal Zero Yeti 400.
  • Unable to chain multiple PowerHouses together (confirming with Anker)
  • Lower AC max draw compared to competitors like the Yeti 400

Moto X 2016 Specs Detailed Along With Amps Modular Backplates

Earlier on in the day, new leaked renders for the Moto X 2016 and the Droid 2016 left everyone questioning the decision making process behind Lenovo-Motorola’s attempt at a Moto flagship. The devices looked very different, if we were trying to be polite. If you loved how the predecessors of these lineups looked, the renders would have left you sorely disappointed.

In a bit of a turnaround, here’s some good news. The devices pictured as the Moto X 2016, and widely assumed to be color variants, are actually two different devices. And that ugly design choice, that might just have a very good purpose to it as well.

This report originates from VentureBeat and is authored by Evan Blass. The devices pictured above are actually two different phones. The left phone in the white color is codenamed Vertex while the black phone on the right is codenamed Vector Thin. The phones will also sport different hardware on the inside, which will add onto their differentiation.

Starting off with the Vertex, the phone will come with a 5.5″ FHD AMOLED display. On the inside, the device is likely to be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 clocked at 2.4GHz. There will be two RAM and storage combos to choose from, 16GB internal + 2GB RAM, and 32GB internal + 3GB RAM. For the camera, the Vertex is sporting a 16MP sensor with laser autofocus as well as PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus). The phone will be kept juiced up by a good capacity 3500mAh battery, likely to be non removable thanks to the metallic unibody design.

The Vector Thin, on the other hand, is the more “premium” of the duo. The 5.5″ AMOLED panel gets bumped up toQHD resolution, while the SoC gets the flagship treatment with Snapdragon 820 clocked at 2GHz. The phone will have 32GB of internal storage, but will have RAM choices for 3GB or 4GB. The camera on the Vector Thin will be a13MP sensor with laser autofocus and OIS. As its name suggests, the Vector Thin will be pretty thin, reportedly measuring 5.2mm compared to the thin-as-well Vertex which will be 7mm thick. The shaved off dimensions have an effect on the battery capacity as well, dropping down disappointingly to 2600mAh, which makes us wonder how long a 5.5″ QHD device with flagship SoC would last.

An independent report also claims that the Moto X 2016 will have shattershield protection just like on the Moto X Force. There is no mention which of the two models will be getting this shock resistant treatment.

But this is not all there is to the Moto X 2016 story. The pins on the back of the Moto X 2016 devices, which we predicted to be connection areas for some sort of docking mechanism, are actually present for modularity. The 16 connection pins are present for “Amps“, which is Motorola/Lenovo’s take on modules. These pins will allow modular backplates to be snapped onto either handset magnetically. This is claimed to provide a tight and secure connection, while still allowing easier swappability.

There will reportedly be six modules available at launch:

1. A Simple color backplate, which will ship free with both handsets
2. Stereo speakers
3. Extended battery pack
4. Camera grip with flash and optical zoom
5. Pico Projector
6. Rugged cover with wide angle lens attachment

The official modules mentioned above will be sold separately by Moto. There is also mention of 3rd party modules. The modules will also make the device flat, hiding the noticeable camera bump away.

So, when can we expect to hear more about these devices? If the good folks over at Droid-Life are to be believed, the Moto X 2016 duo are set for launch on 9th June 2016 at Lenovo’s Tech World, which is where the first consumer-ready Project Tango device is also set to be revealed.

The Moto X 2016 duo have certainly raised our curiosity, giving us a good example of why we should never judge a book by its cover. The deviations from the classic Motorola design might just be forgiven if Motorola/Lenovo can manage to do modularity better than LG could with the LG G5.

Do remember, we are still in the leak stages. As it happened with the earlier news, things can and will change as new information appears. Stay tuned for more coverage!