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Google Glass no longer requires pricey data tethering plans
It’s probably one of the biggest downsides to owning Glass (aside from the exorbitant entry fee) and we mentioned it in our review: if Google Glass ever hopes to hit mainstream success, Google needs to do something about the device’s dependency on costly tethering plans.
Because Google Glass is a companion device (as in, supplemental to your smartphone, not a replacement), the headsets needs to be tethered to your Android device in order to receive updates when outside of WiFi. ‘Course, as many of you already know, tethering plans on <insert any carrier name here> can be extremely pricey, negating any added value of owning a pair of Glass for the everyday-man or soccer mom.
We always assumed that carriers would eventually understand that wearable devices like Google Glass, Samsung Galaxy Gear, or other companion devices don’t necessarily warrant additional tethering fees, as they’re only pulling in mere kbs of extra data. These aren’t laptops or tablets, wearables are in a class all of their own.
Well, rather than wait around for carriers to get on the ball, it seems Google is taking matters into their own hands. Introduced in the latest XE9 software update for Glass was a feature not publicly broadcasted by Google in their release notes: free data tethering. Glass now works in conjunction with the recently updated MyGlass app to completely sidestep your device’s tethering option, pulling data completely through the app itself. No need to enable “Bluetooth tethering” from your device’s settings. Simply download the MyGlass app and you’re ready to go.
Of course, Google’s method of sidestepping carrier tethering rates is sure the ruffle the feathers of a few execs looking to line their pockets. We don’t imagine it’ll be very long before carriers begin blocking the app in the Play Store for use on their network.
More HTC One Max images, release info and other details emerge
We must be getting close to the HTC One Max’s launch. The rumor mill has been going at full speed with leaks and rumors, but lately we have been getting much better looks at the upcoming “phablet”. Today we bring you another look at the HTC One Max, as well as some details we have all be waiting to hear about.
These images come from Chinese social network Weibo. They are nothing we haven’t seen in the past, but bring more proof that some of the features will be present. The fingerprint reader is still present, for example. In addition, we can see the usual HTC charging pins for docking the device.
HTC One Max rumored specs
There is also some bad news, though. The specs are not amazing, though they are still very good. The device is said to sport a 1.7 GHz processor (probably Snapdragon 600), 2 GB of RAM, a 5.9-inch 1080p display and Android 4.3.
HTC is really catching my attention with the battery on this phone, though. That 3,300 mAh beast should have no problem getting you through the day, even with the large display.
HTC One Max price and availability
In addition to the images and specs, we are also hearing about the price and release date. Rumors say the HTC One Max will be ready for release next month with a price of $800. Of course, this would be in Asia. We are not sure when and how much it would cost when/if it comes to the States.
You can go ahead and stay tuned, though! We should be hearing all these details soon. Are any of you buying this device?
[Weibo]
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