However the Key2 looks like the Blackberry handsets of old in one obvious respect—the iconic physical keyboard that have always been a standard feature of these handsets. 

Although the handset includes a virtual keyboard, in a world where touch screens and virtual keyboards reign supreme, the Key2’s physical keyboard looks out of place. 

Understanding where TCL’s new BlackBerry fits in the broader smartphone marketplace might be the biggest issue for customers to consider. The device is well-built, comes with a nice design and comes with high-quality operating system and application software. But asking today’s smartphone users to keep continue using the physical keyboard design of yesteryear might prove to be the undoing of this latest BlackBerry model. 

The BlackBerry Key2’s display is about what you’d expect from other Android devices and looks nice when looking at pictures or surfing the Web. But to accommodate the physical keyboard, the screen isn’t as tall as most others. As a result, some videos and apps look oddly truncated on the screen. 

Though, the virtual keyboard works extremely well and nowhere is that more apparent than on the BlackBerry Key2. 

Often, whether I was typing an e-mail or simply sending a text message to someone, I found the BlackBerry Key2’s keyboard to be a pain to use. I never realized how much I rely on the auto-correct function baked into virtual keyboards that forgive my occasional typos. The Key2, on the other hand, forces you to be more accurate. It ultimately slowed my typing speed and made for a less desirable typing experience overall. 

Still, the BlackBerry Key2’s keys are solid and reliable. Even if my typing skills weren’t up to par, the keys didn’t feel cheap. 

Despite its somewhat outdated design, the BlackBerry Key2’s design feels elegant. The BlackBerry Key2 comes with a 4.5-inch display and runs on Android 8.1. The screen is big and bright and the side-mounted power management and volume keys are sturdy and easy to reach. 

That commitment to quality and impressive components is something that makes itself apparent each time you pick up the Key2. The device feels hefty and robust in your hand, its buttons are sturdy putting a reliable mobile phone in busy professionals’ hands. 

The case’s rear panel has what TCL calls a “diamond grip” that makes it easier to hold and less likely to slip off a table. The rough feeling was a welcome addition. 

The BlackBerry Key2 is an effective Android device. The operating system works exceptionally well on the smartphone and flipping between apps is fast and smooth. Although TCL envisions the Key2 as a companion for busy professionals, especially those used to working with BlackBerry’s physical keyboard, its access to millions of apps through the Google Play marketplace makes the Key2 a suitable option for just about anyone who prefers Android handsets. 

TCL has integrated a variety of BlackBerry’s own apps in the device, including DTEK, an all-in-one suite of products that aim at keeping data secure. The app was one that I often found myself using to boost my privacy and see what kind of information other apps could access. It’s arguably one of the most useful privacy suites on the Android platform. 

Call quality on the Key2 is about average. When I tried calling people in noisy rooms, there was some distortion and they had trouble hearing what I was saying. The same was true when I was on speakerphone. But compared to other devices, like the iPhone X or Samsung’s Galaxy S9, call quality is about the same. 

Where the BlackBerry Key2 falls especially short is in its camera quality. 

Although it comes with dual horizontally aligned cameras, the cameras deliver grainy and dark photos that won’t pass muster for anyone hoping to capture high-resolution photos. Even in brightly lit environments, like a backyard on a sunny day, important details were lost. Zooming in on a shot would produce smeared images. 

TCL promises more than 25 hours of battery life in the BlackBerry Key2 during “mixed use.” And in my testing, which includes placing calls, taking pictures, answering emails and surfing the Web, I hit that mark. Although 25 hours won’t top the smartphone market, it’s a solid showing and one that most business users would find sufficient. 

Overall, to appreciate the BlackBerry Key2, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s not a direct competitor to today’s most popular smartphones. The Key2 isn’t as flashy as the Galaxy S9 and doesn’t have the same design appeal as the iPhone X. 

But what it does have—and what I came to appreciate in my time with it—is a commitment to productivity. The Key2 design aims to appeal to those who look at their phones as business tools rather than fashion statements. And it generally succeeds at that. 

The BlackBerry Key2 is far from perfect and its camera and screen might make it a non-starter for many. But for those seeking a well-designed smartphone that at $650 delivers a great value, the Key2 is a sound choice.

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iOS 12 Enhancements Tops List of Likely Announcements at WWDC 2018

When Apple CEO Tim Cook takes the stage for his keynote at the Worldwide Developers Conference June 4, there’s a good chance product reliability will be on his mind. According to several reports, Apple has been working feverishly to improve the stability and reliability of its operating systems after several recent missteps and plans to release major upgrades this year. Meanwhile, Apple is believed to have been investing heavily in augmented reality and mapping technology and seems poised to at least discuss the future of its healthcare efforts with Apple Watch. Although software improvements will dominate the show, hardware might also be on the docket. Read on for some predictions on what Apple will introduce at WWDC 2018.

Users Want a More Reliable iOS 12

Earlier in 2018, several reports surfaced that said Apple had ditched plans to launch several new features in iOS 12. Instead, the company decided to focus its efforts on improving the stability of iOS 12 after frequent user complaints about reliable performance. Now, most reports say Apple will deliver only minor aesthetic tweaks in iOS 12 and instead focus its sales pitch on major improvements under the hood.

Look for a Minor macOS Update

Apple also isn’t planning a big update to macOS, according to reports. Instead, Apple is said to be working on some new security enhancements that will do a better job of safeguarding the company’s computers. There’s also some talk that Apple could launch a universal app feature that would allow developers to create one app that would work on a Mac or iPad. For users, it would mean easier data migration and software upgrades.

Apple Will Add More Health Management Features to watchOS 5

Apple has clearly positioned its Apple Watch as a health device that gives users far more insight into what’s happening in their bodies. In watchOS 5, Apple could enhance health-tracking features and unveil some new tools that can track a person’s heart, blood sugar levels, and much more.

Apple Will Talk About Major Siri Improvements

Apple’s virtual personal assistant Siri is in need of serious improvement.  As rival systems such as Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant continue gain more capabilities, Siri needs a shakeup to keep up. Apple is reportedly working on a variety of improvements to Siri, which needs to do a better job of handling basic tasks such as creating calendar events and integrating with smart home devices. Siri could also get deeper integration with Apple’s many apps, including Messages, and do a better job of understanding user intent.

Apple Keeps Improving Maps

Several reports of late have said that Apple has spent an inordinate amount of time working on the future of Apple Maps. The company is said to have used drones to improve its mapping and is increasing the number of places its indoor mapping feature is working. Still other reports have said the company is working on an alternative to Google’s Street View. Either way, expect Apple Maps to at least try to catch up to Google Maps in its next iteration.

Expect Significant Updates to ARKit

Apple CEO Tim Cook has said that he believes augmented reality has a bright future. And last year, the company unveiled a variety of augmented reality features through its ARKit platform that it hoped developers would integrate into their apps. According to several rumors, Apple is improving ARKit and plans to offer even more augmented reality features to developers.

Look for Important Swift Language Enhancements

Apple’s Swift programming language gets new updates each year and it likely Apple will take about the latest innovations at WWDC. Developers are especially interested in improvements to the language, since it has a direct impact on their apps and the features they can integrate into them. Swift improvements won’t be the most exciting announcement during Apple’s keynote, but for developers they could be the most important.

There’s Persistent Talk About a Powerful New iPad Pro

Reports have been swirling for months that say Apple is working on a new iPad Pro that will deliver far more computing power than any tablet that’s come before it. This new model, which rumors suggest could be known as the iPad Pro X, could come with the same design as Apple’s iPhone X, complete with a notch at the top. It might also be the first Apple tablet to come with an OLED screen and Face ID. There have been multiple reports about a new iPad Pro and could finally make its debut on June 4.

Apple May Share More Details on New Mac Pro

Apple confirmed recently that it’s working on a Mac Pro designed specifically for creative professionals. While the machine won’t launch until 2019, speculation abounds that Apple will provide a preview at WWDC to placate users that have been waiting years for an Mac Pro update. Look for the Mac Pro to come with an all-new design, the latest and greatest components and a price tag that shock companies.

Apple Is Due to Provide Update on AirPower

After Apple unveiled its AirPower wireless charging pad last year, the company promised its launch for 2018. Since then, as the months have ticked by, Apple has remained silent on when AirPower will materialize. Most industry pundits believe that will change at this year’s show and Apple will finally reveal all the pricing and availability details the industry has been waiting on.

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Security Specialists, Network Engineers Top List of ‘Hottest’ IT Jobs

As the enterprise changes, so too will the jobs, according to a newly released study from IDC and Cisco, which examined nearly 2 million IT job postings to find the positions that both have longevity and can offer the best long-term growth opportunities. The study shows that security professionals and network engineers are in high demand and those who are staying ahead of the curve on increasingly important technologies such as the internet of things and machine learning have a leg up. The following slide show sheds light on the IT positions that will be most important in the future and how difficult it is to get those jobs. Check out this guide to the hottest IT jobs for those looking to enter the IT space or are looking for a change in the space.

Security Management Specialist

Those looking for an IT position with the best job prospects should look no further than the security management specialist. According to the study, those positions are considered “very high” in importance and candidates have no difficulty getting a job. Best of all, there’s a high probability of long-term growth, according to IDC and Cisco.

Network Engineer

Network engineer is considered the second-hottest IT job. Their future importance is considered “high,” and it’s not difficult for candidates to get positions. That said, network engineers are the only position in this roundup that have low long-term growth potential.

Cyber Information Security Engineer

Next up are cyber information security engineers. According to the IDC and Cisco study, their long-term growth potential is high and landing a job is not difficult. The companies also believe, based on their survey, that their future importance in the enterprise will be high.

Internet of Things Engineer

Internet of things engineers are also viewed as highly important in the future enterprise and getting a position in the sought-after field isn’t considered difficult. Better yet, IDC and Cisco believe that their long-term growth potential is high.

Business Intelligence Architect

Business intelligence architects have high long-term growth opportunities because business intelligence will be so important in the future enterprise. In fact, business intelligence architects are believed to be of “high importance” looking ahead. But unlike many of the other jobs in this roundup, landing a job as a business intelligence architect is “difficult,” according to the companies.

Software Developer

Software developers have always been among the most sought-after specialties. According to IDC and Cisco, software developers will be very highly sought-after in the coming years and getting a job as a developer won’t be difficult. The companies cautioned, however, that software developers only have “moderate” long-term growth potential.

Machine Learning Designer

Getting into the machine learning business is considered “not difficult,” due in large part to the position’s “high” importance to the future of corporate activities. Best of all, IDC and Cisco revealed that the long-term growth potential of machine learning designers is “very high,” putting it ahead of all other positions in that metric.

Data Engineer

Data engineers are in the second tier of positions, falling within the “medium” importance level for the future of business. However, the long-term growth opportunities for the position are high. Be aware, however, that data engineering positions are highly competitive and getting a position can be “difficult.”

Transformation Consultant

A transformation consultant will be of medium importance to future businesses and getting a position in that career shouldn’t be difficult. But those looking for opportunities in the future should be aware that the position only carries “moderate” chances of long-term growth.

Business Intelligence Analyst

Looking ahead, IDC and Cisco believe that business intelligence analysts will be of middling importance to companies. However, the jobs will not be difficult to get, according to the report, and its long-term growth potential will be high.

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OnePlus 6 Smartphone Comes With High-End Features at Midrange Price

After months of rumors and speculation, Chinese boutique smartphone maker OnePlus has finally unveiled its new high-end handset. Called the OnePlus 6, the device has many of the powerful features corporate customers might expect, including a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor, up to 8GB of RAM, and a large  screen to help them be more productive on the go. Best of all, OnePlus has found a way to deliver these high-end smartphone features for as little as $529, making it significantly cheaper than any of its top competitors. But the OnePlus 6 is also limited in the carrier options users can choose from and with a design reminiscent of the iPhone X, some industry critics have taken issue with its “copycat” look and feel. Read on for more on the OnePlus 6:

It Has a Big Screen With an iPhone X-Like Notch

The OnePlus 6 has a 6.3-inch screen that has a resolution of 2,280 by 1,080 pixels. With an aspect ratio of 19:9, thanks to its widescreen format, users might discover that videos shot in a 16:9 format won’t entirely fill the screen when they’re viewed in landscape mode. The handset’s display is protected by Corning’s Gorilla Glass 5, which should cut down on scratches and cracks.

It Packs Plenty of Processing Power

Like previous OnePlus models, the OnePlus 6 has more than enough processing power from the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor—the same chip built into Samsung’s Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S9+. On the graphics side, the Adreno 630 should allow for users to run just about any app including custom corporate programs.

There’s a Vertically Aligned Dual-Lens Camera

Like so many other smartphones today, OnePlus has bundled a vertically aligned dual-lens camera the OnePlus 6. The main camera has a 16-megapixel sensor that comes with optical image stabilization and the ability to capture 4K video. The device’s secondary camera has a 20-megapixel sensor. Slow-motion capture is also available with the cameras.

Double Up on the RAM

In another bid to deliver as much power as possible in the OnePlus 6, OnePlus is offering 6GB of RAM in the base model. Customers that need additional memory capacity can boost the amount of RAM to 8GB. On the storage side, the handsets come with 64GB to start, but buyers can bump that to 128GB or 256GB if they don’t mind paying a bit extra.

OnePlus Catches Flak for Design

It’d be difficult to discuss the OnePlus 6 without mentioning how similar its design is to Apple’s iPhone X. In fact, many industry critics have taken issue with it, saying that the handset looks like a “copycat.” That’s due in large part to the thin bezels all around the screen and the metal finish on the spine. Although the OnePlus 6 has a notch like the iPhone X, the OnePlus 6  design is thinner. The rear of the OnePlus 6 is a bit different. It has its vertical cameras, flash, and fingerprint sensor centrally located and stacked from top to bottom. Apple’s iPhone X doesn’t come with a fingerprint sensor.

It’s Water Resistant

The OnePlus 6 is designed to withstand the beating mobile workers might subject it to, according to OnePlus. The device comes with “a special type of foam” between the screen and battery cover that prevents water from getting inside. OnePlus has also made the headphone jack and fingerprint sensor waterproof and the buttons around the handset are sealed. OnePlus says the handset will keep working even if users happen to drop the handset in sink full or water or spill a glass of water on it. OnePlus cautioned, however, that the handset won’t survive long deep water such as a pool or a lake.

Android Oreo Is Paired With OxygenOS Interface

The OnePlus 6 runs Android Oreo, but it also has its own proprietary user interface called OxygenOS that users interact on the handset’s screen. OxygenOS allows access to all the standard Google apps such as Gmail and Chrome, of course, but also comes with system optimizations that make it run faster than a standard Android installation. In fact, OxygenOS is as much defined by what’s not running than what is. It’s one of the most streamlined and pared-down operating system skins in the Android ecosystem and many users say it makes them more productive than other options.

It Comes With Two Biometric Options

OnePlus has bundled a physical fingerprint sensor on the back of its device, allowing users to unlock their handsets, access secured data and make mobile payments. There’s also a face scanner in the smartphone that allows for additional biometric support. Be aware, however, that the face scanner is of the 2D variety, which will make it less secure and easier to dupe than the 3D Face ID scanner in the iPhone X.

Major Carrier Limitations

The OnePlus 6 is not a handset that can run on just any carrier network. Corporate users that work with the Verizon or Sprint networks won’t be able to use this model. Instead, OnePlus 6 is only capable of running on AT&T and T-Mobile’s networks among the “big four” carriers. The OnePlus 6 will also run on U.S. Cellular’s network.

Pricing and Availability

The OnePlus 6 deliveries began on May 22. The base model, which has 6GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, will cost customers $529. Those who want to bump the storage to 128GB and RAM to 8GB will pay $579 for the handset. The top model, featuring 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, will cost $629.

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Microsoft Surface Hub 2 Takes Work Team Collaboration to a New Level

Microsoft has corporate collaboration clearly in its sights with its new Surface Hub 2. The device, which Microsoft unveiled on May 15, was redesigned to give companies the option of using or multiple 50.5-inch screens to facilitate employee collaboration. The technology is powered by Windows 10 and comes with a variety of Microsoft business applications, including Microsoft Teams, Whiteboard, and Office 365. With some help from its 4K camera and far-field microphone, the Surface Hub 2 is designed for companies that often hold video conference calls. Microsoft’s Surface Hub 2 is a major step forward in the company’s collaboration efforts.

It’s Designed to Keep Mobile Workforces on

In a blog post announcing the Surface Hub 2, Microsoft said that it’s designed the device for collaboration within mobile workforces. Microsoft noted that within three years, “half of the global workforce will be mobile.” As a result, companies, looking to improve productivity, will need to have systems that enhance collaboration. Microsoft said that companies with collaborative work environments are “five times as likely to be high-performing” as those that do not take a collaborative tack. Surface Hub 2, Microsoft said, addresses all of those concerns and puts companies on a path to enhanced collaboration and productivity.

There Are Single- or Multi-Display Options

The Surface Hub 2 is a touch-enabled screen that measures 50.5 inches. It boasts a 4K resolution and allows for multiple people to touch objects the screen at the same time. Its thin bezels aren’t just for show: they’re designed to demarcate the lines between displays when companies employ a multi-screen Surface Hub 2 array. According to Microsoft, companies can synchronize to four Surface Hub 2 screens together to create a gigantic collaborative display.

Surface Hub 2 Is Chock Full of Microsoft Software

Microsoft’s Surface Hub 2 runs on Windows 10 and offers all of the familiar Windows experiences companies would expect. Each Surface Hub 2 also comes bundled with Microsoft’s collaborative service Teams, as well as Microsoft Whiteboard. Office 365 is also supported in the Surface Hub 2.

Microsoft Is Adding ‘Enhanced’ Collaboration Features

In addition to standard collaborative features, like the ability to see a big display remotely and comment on content in real time, Microsoft said that its Surface Hub 2 has “enhanced collaboration features.” Chief among them is a multi-user sign-in feature that lets multiple employees simultaneously sign in to the Surface Hub 2 to use various applications and to save content to their own cloud accounts.

The Surface Hub 2 Will Have a More Flexible Design

Many companies might opt to place their Surface Hub 2s on the wall and they will have the choice to arrange the display in portrait or landscape modes. They can even transition from one mode to the other on the fly. Microsoft has also partnered with office furniture manufacturer Steelcase to design rolling stands and other mounts that allow employees to move their Surface Hub 2s around the office. Unlike the original Surface Hub, Microsoft said, its second-generation model can be used anywhere in the office.

It Supports 4K Video Conferencing

The company has built high-end video conference features into the Surface Hub 2 to facilitate improved video conferencing for mobile workforces. For instance, the device ships with a 4K camera to capture to deliver sharp video.. There’s also a far-field microphone baked into the machine, so employees can be away from the screen and still communicate with mobile colleagues.

A Fingerprint Sensor Will Control User Access

Considering Surface Hub 2 is designed to be used by a variety of employees at all levels within a company, ensuring the safety and privacy of data is paramount. To address that, Microsoft will bake a physical fingerprint sensor into the Surface Hub 2. Since the Surface Hub 2 is an office tool, multiple employee fingerprints can be input into the device at the same time.

Microsoft Will Begin Beta Tests This YearWill

Microsoft isn’t saying too much about the Surface Hub 2’s availability. The company said that it will begin to test the technology with “select commercial customers” this year and make it generally available some time in 2019.

Microsoft Hasn’t Specified Pricing or Hardware Specifications

Microsoft is keeping some important details about its upcoming Surface Hub 2 close to the vest. For instance, the company didn’t say in its statement on May 15 how much the Surface Hub 2 would cost. Microsoft also didn’t discuss many of the machine’s critical specifications, including processing power, RAM, and graphics performance. It’s unclear whether those hardware specifications are still evolving.

Who Are Likely Buyers of Surface Hub 2

Microsoft is rather broad in its description of the anticipated Surface Hub 2 customers and simply says it would be suitable for companies with teams that want to see improved collaboration. But it’s perhaps important to consider that the current make-up of those who bought its first-generation Surface Hub. According to Microsoft, it has 5,000 Surface Hub customers across 25 markets. Many of them are Fortune 100 companies, suggesting larger enterprises see value in the Surface Hub experience.

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Crypto-Mining Malware Tops Check Point List of Top Cyber-Threats

In its latest Global Threat Index, security firm Check Point highlighted the top 10 malware types affecting companies today. The list, which was compiled after Check Point’s evaluation of 11 million malware signatures, suggests crypto-mining malware remains the most prevalent threat to enterprises followed by malvertising, browser hijackers and botnets.  Check Point also found that enterprises are still not doing enough to patch known vulnerabilities that are being exploited by hackers and cyber-criminal, making unwary companies vulnerable to crypto-mining attacks, ransomware, data breaches and other losses. This eWEEK slide show will discuss the top 10 threats in more detail.

Coinhive Crypto-Mining Malware Tops the List

Coinhive is the most widely deployed targeting companies, according to Check Point’s evaluation. The malware takes control over machines processing power to mine the Monero crypto-currency. In order to do that, however, unsuspecting victims need to visit a malicious webpage to pick up the Coinhive malware infection

Cryptoloot Targets Blockchain Ledgers

Next up is Cryptoloot. Like Coinhive, Cryptoloot is a Crypto-Miner, but doesn’t specifically target Monero when it takes control over computers. Cryptoloot uses a computer’s processing power to create false crypto-currency transactions that are posted to the blockchain ledger for Bitcoin and other crypto-currency types. It also tries to release new currency through the infected machines.

Roughted Infects Websites With Malvertising

Roughted is a malvertising attack that creates a large number of malicious websites infested with adware, exploit kits, and ransomware among other malware, according to Check Point. The malicious files can target computers running any operating system and are capable of bypassing ad-blockers and other protective measures to deliver a malware payload.

Jsecoin Exploits JavaScript

Check Point describes Jsecoin as a JavaScript crypto-currency miner that infects websites. Once Jsecoin infects a web site it enables the transfer of crypto-currency for the payment of goods and services, usually for illegal transactions.

Andromeda Creates Network Backdoors for Cyber-Attacks

Andromeda is what Check Point calls a “modular bot.” The malware is typically used in the corporate world as a hidden backdoor that allows even more malicious software to be installed on an infected machine or network to steal data or plant ransomware. It can also be used to create a variety of botnets, according to Check Point.

Fireball Hijacks Browsers to Spread Malware

Fireball is a browser hijacker that malicious hackers often use as a malware downloader, according to Check Point. It’s a scary malware that can execute malicious code from afar and has been known to steal victims’ user credentials and install additional malware once it’s infected a corporate machine.

XMRig Rising Rapidly as Prevalent Crypto-Miner

XMRig is another crypto-mining hack that uses an infected computer’s CPU resources to mine the crypto-currency Monero. According to Check Point, XMRig was first discovered in May 2017 but is now the seventh-most-prevalent malware that is hitting corporate computers these days.  

Dorkbot IRC Worm Infects Web Sites Through Message Forums

Dorkbot is an IRC (internet relay chat) worm that breaks into a victim’s computer and allows malicious hackers to remotely execute code. Dorkbot is also capable of downloading more malware onto a machine. So far, the malware has mainly been used to steal company data and launch denial-of-service attacks, according to Check Point.

Nivdort Bot Designed to Steal Passwords

Nivdort is a bot that also goes by the name Bayrob. The malware frequently invest corporate computers to steal passwords and alter system settings. In some cases, Nivdort acts as a gateway that allows more malware to be downloaded to a computer. Nivdort typically relies upon spam to target companies.

Necurs Botnet Spreads Ransomware

Necurs is a botnet that targets companies through spam emails to spread ransomware by duping email recipients into clicking on malicious links and files. Necurs is also used to spread banking Trojans, according to Check Point.

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Google Duplex IVR Demonstrates AI Advances, Raises Security Worries

At its annual I/O developers conference on May 8, Google unveiled a new artificial intelligence system called Duplex that the company argues will transform the world’s interaction with interactive voice response and AI-driven bots. Google demonstrated how business users could work with Duplex over phones or smart speakers could do everything from making restaurant reservations to setting up appointments and business meetings all while sounding as if these tasks were being performance by living persons. Google argued in a subsequent blog post on Duplex that the service would be ideal for business users who want to use it for scheduling or providing information to the public. But there are also ethical concerns about Duplex. So before companies consider deploying the service—or accepting calls from it—some questions need to be answered. Read on to learn more.

What Is Duplex and How Does It Work?

Google Duplex is a new artificial intelligence technology that provides an interactive voice interface that sounds eerily life-like. In a blog post about Duplex, Google said that the service offers “natural conversations” that can handle “real world tasks over the phone.” For now, Duplex is focused on completing very specific tasks, such as scheduling. It uses Google Assistant along with a neural network and an AI platform called TensorFlow Extended that all work together to deliver natural language responses.

Duplex Is Integrated With Google Assistant

Google Assistant plays an important role in how Google Duplex works. Users who want to communicate with businesses and services on the Internet simply ask Google Assistant, which runs on their phones or smart home devices, to place a call to a business location or a cloud service to set up an appointment, make a reservation, or perform another function. Google Assistant then handles the call in the background without user input.

Travel, Restaurant, Meeting Reservations Are Top Uses

In a blog post, Google pitched Google Duplex as a way for companies to book appointments and reservations. Google envisions that business would work with Duplex to answer customer calls, respond with reservation options and book reservations. Google says it would reduce human interaction with less-critical tasks and require no training.

Could It Reduce No-Shows?

For doctor’s offices, restaurants, and other locations that need reliable scheduling, Google said that Duplex could be an effective way to reduce no-show by calling customers to remind them about reservations without human interaction. If customers need to cancel or reschedule appointments, Google Duplex could handle the task on the fly without requiring human to step in.

Duplex Can Field Customer’s Repetitive Questions

Google officials also suggested Duplex will also reduce the time employees spend answering customers frequently asked questions that they can’t find or don’t bother to look up online. With Duplex, companies can input information about holiday hours, new sales and special deals and other information. Google added that Duplex is capable of handling a wide-range of languages and works with hearing-impaired callers.

Duplex Is a Work in Progress

In truth, Google Duplex is not fully development and there are still far more questions than answers about how well it will work. But what is clear is that there will be a close tie-in with Google apps and cloud services. After all, Duplex relies on Google Assistant and will only be able to interact with scheduling and reservation systems that can communicate with Google’s platforms. It shouldn’t be any surprise if Google uses Duplex as a way to sell more companies on using its many other cloud apps, including the G Suite apps Gmail, Calendar and Docs, among others.

Duplex Raises Ethical Questions

Google’s announcement raised questions within the media about whether Duplex’s AI-driven voice response is so human-like that people should be informed that they are speaking to a computer, not a person. Duplex didn’t do that in the demonstrations at Google I/O. The same holds true for business employees that don’t realize that are speaking to customers’ Duplex units, rather to customers themselves. Businesses will have to decide if they are comfortable with Duplex’s advanced IVR capabilities.

There Are Significant Privacy Implications

Many privacy advocates argue Google hasn’t thoroughly thought-out the privacy implications with Duplex. If a person is communicating with Duplex and sharing information about themselves, their appointments and other data, can they rely on the privacy and security of that data? What kind of legal or regulatory issues could businesses face if they set up appointments or share information about a customer without properly verifying the identity of callers? Potential pitfalls are numerous.

Google’s Attempt at an Answer

Some Google employees have tried to allay some of the fears about Duplex. They note that the company is working on testing the technology and it’s not fully baked yet. They also note that Duplex isn’t programmed to sounds like a human with the deliberate goal of deceiving people. Although Google has said that Duplex will be limited to only certain features for now, the company has yet to provide detailed answers to the questions about privacy and security questions.

Duplex Needs Time to Mature

For now it looks like Duplex is too immature a technology to be widely deployed by enterprises. Some security and privacy experts say Google Duplex is a half-baked artificial intelligence platform that needs to undergo far more testing before it can become an effective product for enterprises. By deploying Google Duplex, companies are possibly exposing themselves to privacy concerns and angering users who worry they’re being duped by machines. For now it’s best to stay away from Google Duplex until the company can work out the service’s very real problems.

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HP’s Unveils Trio of EliteBook 700 Notebooks With AMD Ryzen CPUs

HP is the world’s most popular PC maker and one of the top choices for companies buying new office computers. It’s targeting the corporate world once again with a new line of notebooks in its EliteBook 700 Series. The machines, which run Windows 10 Pro and are equipped with AMD’s Ryzen CPUs to deliver the power corporate customers require. They also have AMD Radeon Vega graphics processors and with help from HP’s own Fast Charging technology, business travelers should be able to maintain battery life throughout the day. The HP EliteBook 700 Series combines power and security with a lightweight design that should appeal to business professionals whether they are on the road or tied to the office.

EliteBooks 700 Notebooks Designed for Mobile Professionals

HP’s EliteBook series is designed for the traveling professional that wants a rugged but portable notebook. The HP EliteBook 735 weighs just 2.9 pounds and is 0.7 inches thick. The EliteBook 745, which has a slightly larger screen, weighs 3.4 pounds, but is only 0.7 inches, thick. HP’s largest EliteBook, the EliteBook 755, measures 0.72 inches thick and weighs 4.1 pounds.

These EliteBooks Come in Three Screen Sizes

The EliteBook 735 has a 13.3-inch screen while the EliteBook 745 comes with a 14-inch display. The top of the line EliteBook 755 features a 15.6-inch screen. According to HP, all of the options have a “narrow border” and deliver “ultra-bright” visuals so the screens can be used in nearly any light.

These EliteBook Are Designed Around AMD Chips

AMD’s components are all over the EliteBook 700 series. All of the models ship with the AMD Ryzen Pro processor and come with the AMD Radeon Vega graphics units. According to HP, the AMD components will deliver the processing power expected by corporate users. The graphics performance, specifically, will facilitate video conferencing and “graphics-intensive workloads,” according to HP.

They Support Fast Charging

HP doesn’t specifically say in its product specifications how much battery life these EliteBook models will deliver on a single charge. HP did, however, confirm that the machines will have HP Fast Charging support that will boost their battery life to 50 percent after just 30 minutes of charging.

The Notebooks Have Conferencing, Collaboration Features

HP’s EliteBook series machines ship with collaboration features that allow users to quickly get on conference calls. Above the backspace key, the EliteBook has an option to start or stop a call. There’s also a monitor button for engaging in a video conference call. To deliver better-sounding audio, HP has called on Bang & Olufsen for better call performance.

Security Features Enable Recovery From Crashes, Malware

HP has bundled a variety of security features in the EliteBooks. The device has HP Sure Start Gen4 that recovers the BIOS and other firmware in the event of a problem. HP Sure Run will ensure “critical OS processes” keep running even when malware tries to shut them down. A feature called HP Sure Click Gen2 uses hardware-enforced security in the Web browser to sidestep malware and other threats.

They Include Tools for Hardware, Security Management

HP is bundling its Manageability Integration Kit that is designed to help IT support technicians create software installation images as well as manage hardware settings and security policies. It’s all done through Microsoft’s System Center Configuration Manager.

HP Ships These Notebooks Ship With Windows 10 Pro

To highlight their identity as business notebooks, HP is shipping these EliteBooks with Windows 10 Pro instead of Windows 10 Home in its line of new EliteBooks. HP didn’t provide a detailed list of all the applications that it will bundle with these notebooks. But you can assume there will be the usual range of add-on applications whether you want them or not.

They Support WiFi and LTE Cellular Connectivity

The HP EliteBook 700 series comes with WiFi connectivity, of course, but as part of its commitment to mobile workers, HP has said that the computers will support LTE connectivity as an optional feature. So buyers who only need WiFi will be able to save a few dollars on their purchases.

Pricing and Availability

HP will begin shipping its new EliteBook 700 series in May. The company said that the computers will start at $999 for the cheapest model and rise according to the model and options selected. Pricing will be dependent upon the Ryzen chip users pick, how much memory (up to 32GB) they desire, and how much storage (up to 512GB) they’re after.

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Smartphone Shipments Drop 2.9 Percent in 2018 First Quarter IDC Report

During the first quarter of 2018, Samsung retained the top spot in the smartphone market, followed by Apple and Chinese device maker Huawei, according to new data released on May 2 by research company IDC. But arguably the biggest story from the first quarter was the rapid rise of Chinese smartphone makers that continue to put pressure on the market leaders. While mobile device makers such as Apple and Huawei generated sizable profits and posted impressive market share numbers during the period, the global smartphone shipments declined in the first quarter. This slide show will cover of the more significant findings from IDC’s quarterly data.

Why Total Smartphone Shipments Declined in Q1

The global smartphone market had a rough first quarter, data from IDC shows. Overall, smartphone shipments worldwide hit 334.3 million units during the period, a 2.9 percent decline compared to the same period in 2017. IDC attributed the decline to fewer feature phone users converting to smartphones this year compared to 2017.

Samsung Leads the Way

Samsung was the clear leader during the first quarter of 2018. The company shipped 78.2 million units to win a 23.4 percent market share during the period. While market share was up from 23.3 percent last year, total shipments were down from the 80.1 million units it shipped in the first quarter of 2017.

Galaxy S9 Models Helped Boost Samsung’s Shipments

In a broader analysis, IDC reported that Samsung’s performance was bolstered by the new Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ handsets it released late in the quarter. Furthermore, IDC said that Samsung’s budget-friendly Galaxy A and Galaxy J smartphones helped sustain shipment volume in 9emerging markets.

Apple Is a Distant Second

Apple took the second spot during the first quarter, but it didn’t get close to Samsung. Apple’s iPhone shipments during the period topped 52.2 million units, earning the company 15.6 percent market share. During the first quarter, of 2017, Apple shipped 50.8 million units and tallied market share of 14.7 percent.

ICD finds iPhone X Was a ‘Success’ for Apple in Q1

IDC’s data on the iPhone was taken from Apple’s own earnings report, which showed a slight bump in shipments. IDC said that Apple’s iPhone X had “success” in the first quarter and was complemented by “healthy sales of the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus.” IDC added that the iPhone X’s starting price of $999 pushed Apple’s iPhone division average selling price from $655 in the first quarter of 2017 to $728 in the first quarter of 2018.

SmartphoneSHuawei Continues to SoarhipDrop_6

Chinese smartphone maker Huawei is coming on strong. The company’s smartphone shipments jumped 13.8 percent year-over-year from 34.5 million units in the first quarter of 2017 to 39.3 million units in the first quarter of 2018. Huawei’s market share also grew from 10 percent in the first quarter of 2017 to 11.8 percent last quarter.

Huawei Growth Due to Strong Sales in China

Huawei’s success over the period can be attributed to two factors, according to IDC. First, Huawei has done a fine job of establishing itself as one of the leaders in the Chinese market. Second, the company has invested heavily in “upscaling its brand image in international markets,” IDC reported.

Xiaomi Shipments Soar 87.8 Percent

Another Chinese smartphone maker, Xiaomi also saw its shipments soar. The company shipped 28 million units during the period, an 87.8 percent jump compared to the 14.8 million units Xiaomi shipped in the first quarter of 2017. The company’s global market share jumped from 4.3 percent last year to 8.4 percent in the last quarter.

Oppo’s Domestic Smartphone Sales Stumbled

But it wasn’t all good news for Chinese smartphone makers. Domestic smartphone shipments for China’s Oppo actually slowed during the first, according to IDC. The company’s first-quarter shipments totaled an estimated 23.9 million units, earning it 7.1 percent market share during the period. In the first quarter of 2017, Oppo’s smartphone shipments topped 25.8 million units and its market share stood at 7.5 percent.

Everybody Else

All the other smartphone makers including the IDC report, including Sony, LG, and OnePlus, combined to ship 112.7 million units during the period. While that segment captured 33.7 percent market share, shipments were down a whopping 18.5 percent compared to the 138.3 million units shipped during the first quarter of 2017.

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LG G7 ThinQ Challenges Galaxy S9 With High-Powered Components, Design

LG is taking aim at smartphone market leaders with a new high-end smartphone. The device, called the LG G7 ThinQ, was introduced at a May 2 media briefing. The handset is designed to compete with Samsung’s Galaxy S9. Like Samsung’s handset, it comes with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 and features a big screen that leaves no room for a physical home button. LG’s smartphone has a dual-lens camera on the back and runs on Android Oreo. And like many other late-model smartphones, it has artificial intelligence features to make it easier to use. But after LG announced the smartphone, the company left everyone guessing how much it’ll cost and when it will actually ship. Read on to learn more about the LG G7 ThinQ’s features.

LG’s Notch Is a Unique Design

LG has joined the growing number of smartphone vendors going with a notch design. The G7 ThinQ comes with a notch at the top of its screen, which houses the front-facing camera and earpiece. But unlike Apple’s iPhone X, which makes the unsightly black notch apparent at all times, G7 ThinQ owners have the option of changing the notification bar at the top to black. Upon doing so, the notch matches the bar and isn’t so apparent. The device also comes with a metallic chassis and no physical home button on the front, similar to other high-end handsets.

Snapdragon Processor Helps G7 ThinQ Compete in the High End

Since LG wants to compete with market leaders, it’s no surprise the company opted for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 in its upcoming smartphone. G7 ThinQ owners also get a choice of 4GB or 6GB of RAM, which should be sufficient for most resource-intensive apps.

LG Decides on a Midrange Screen

LG made an interesting decision when making the G7 ThinQ’s screen size 6.1 inches, as it bridges the gap between the 5.8-inch Galaxy S9 and 6.2-inch Galaxy S9+. The G7 ThinQ has a 19.5:9 “FullVision Super Bright Display” with a quad-HD resolution of 3,120 by 1,440 pixels. The screen offers 564 pixels per inch, which means it’ll offer one of the best-looking images of any smartphone on the market.

AI Camera Gives G7 ThinQ Users More Capabilities

LG’s G7 ThinQ has dual 16-megapixel cameras on the rear, with one being a super-wide-angle lens and the other a standard angle. The smartphone is one of the first to support Google Lens, which uses artificial intelligence and computer vision inside Google Assistant and Google Photos to give users more information about landmarks. Google Lens can also identify contact information on a business card, provide data about animals and more. For picture-taking, LG’s smartphone has 19 shooting modes that optimize the quality of an image.

Google Is All Over the Phone

LG is firmly entrenched with Google in its G7 ThinQ. In addition to bundling Android Oreo in the smartphone, LG has added a button on the device’s side that will activate virtual personal assistant Google Assistant. A variety of Google apps, including Chrome, Google Play and YouTube, also come bundled with the smartphone.

G7 ThinQ Has a Physical, Not Virtual Fingerprint Sensor

Most smartphone vendors are working feverishly to get a virtual fingerprint sensor to work. But until it does, many Android device makers are offering a physical sensor. Still others offer both a physical sensor and face scanning. For its part, LG has opted for a physical sensor in the LG G7 ThinQ. The sensor sits beneath the rear camera toward the middle of the rear case. In a specification sheet, LG said that its smartphone also comes with face recognition, but it’s unknown at this point how that feature works.

Handset Boasts a Fast-Charging Battery, Thanks to Qualcomm

LG has included a 3,000mAh battery pack in the G7 ThinQ. The battery can be wirelessly charged and is capable of quickly regaining its power with help from Qualcomm’s QuickCharge 3.0 technology. LG hasn’t yet revealed how long its battery will last on a single charge.

G7 ThinQ Passes the Sound Check With Flying Colors

The G7 ThinQ has been outfitted with a Boombox Speaker, which uses a resonance chamber inside the smartphone to double its bass performance and create a quasi-sub-woofer. It is the first handset to have DTS:X sound to create virtual 3D sound and 7.1-channel surround with earphones. A Super Far Field Voice Recognition feature allows Google Assistant to be heard clearly from distances up to 5 meters.

LG Phone Can Survive the Elements

The LG G7 ThinQ is designed to survive a short fall or a bout with the elements. The device’s screen is hardened by Gorilla Glass 5, and the smartphone has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. LG said the handset should be able to handle “harsh environments,” as it meets military MIL-STD 810G requirements.

Some Big Questions Are Left Unanswered

On paper, the LG G7 ThinQ looks to be awfully similar to some of the market’s top competitors, including Samsung’s Galaxy S9 and Apple’s iPhone X. But there are some details LG still hasn’t revealed. While LG said it will be rolling out the G7 ThinQ to South Korea “in the coming days,” it is only saying that it will then make the handset available at some point soon in North America and elsewhere. LG also balked at sharing how much the smartphone will cost and on which carriers it will be available. LG promised to share that information “closer to the time of availability.”

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