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HTC follows Samsung’s lead with Google-based One

HTC follows Samsung's lead with Google-based One

Last week, Google announced that it was working with Samsung to produce a version of the flagship Galaxy S IV smartphone running the Android mobile operating system natively. Now, it seems HTC is jumping on the proverbial bandwagon with the announcement that it will launch its own Google-enabled variant of its One device, reports Geek.com.

According to the news source, the new One will run Android 4.2.2, more commonly known as Jelly Bean, natively, which could have serious implications for how many of the device's defining features work. For example, the One's front-facing 2.1 megapixel camera relies on HTC's ImageSense software, while the handset's speakers utilize HTC's BeatsAudio system, both of which could be reworked to run on Google's platform.

If these features prove to work as effectively as they do on HTC's proprietary software, some enthusiasts could be left wondering what makes the One so special after all. If they don't, the decision to offer a device running sub-par software could further hurt HTC's image in the eyes of consumers.

The news source claims that, according to unnamed sources, an official announcement about the new device will be forthcoming at some point during the next two weeks, with a possible release date slated for later in the summer.

Despite the impressive specifications of the HTC One, the company is struggling to make a dent in the increasingly competitive mobile space. According to CNET, many senior executives have already left the company in light of disappointing sales, and some experts believe the manufacturer may see continued departures of high-ranking officials if the HTC One fails to perform as hoped.

Whether the idea of a Google-based One can tempt you or not, there's never been a better time to sell iPhone accessories and handsets and trade in to one of the latest devices on the market.

New ‘Proven’ app brings the job hunt to your smartphone

New 'Proven' app brings the job hunt to your smartphone

As college graduations take place across the U.S., many fresh graduates are getting ready to join the workforce. They have to find an open position first, however, and the job-hunting process is quickly becoming a round-the-clock endeavor. More and more people are turning to mobile devices to aid in their search, and apps like Proven are helping along the way. 

Proven is a new mobile app that works as a job search engine on Android and iOS devices. You can browse through job openings in your area and apply, taking advantage of a feature that stores multiple resumes and personal information that makes submitting an application easy. 

"People are getting used to going online while sitting on a bus or waiting for an airplane. And if you hate your job, it's so easy to pull out your phone and see what else is out there," Cindy Cloud, a manager at the Silicon Valley company Informatica Corp., told The Wall Street Journal. "We think mobile is the next big area for recruiting." 

Being on the cusp of technology is extremely important in some fields, so it's imperative that your phone reflects your aptitude. You can sell cell phones on USell.com and upgrade to a device that shows just how tech-savvy you really are. 

Sony Xperia ZR to feature underwater capabilities

Sony Xperia ZR to feature underwater capabilities

Nearly every phone owner has experienced that one terrifying moment when they fear their device may fall into water and suffer from some debilitating damage. Soon you may be able to say goodbye to that sinking feeling, however, as the new Sony Xperia ZR boasts some impressive water resistance. According to Mashable, the smartphone is fully functional when submerged in up to 5 feet of water, while Phones Review states that it retains its function for up to 30 minutes. 

Sony already has a current smartphone with similar capabilities – the Xperia Z remains in full working condition in up to 3.3 feet of fresh water. Some additional features will set the new Xperia ZR apart, however. It can film HD videos or snap photos while underwater thanks to the IP55 and IP58 levels of water resistance, which is an improvement from its predecessor. The rest of the operating system remains the same, with a 4.6-inch screen, 13-megapixel camera and 2GB of RAM found on the device. 

There are some limitations with the waterproof feature, however. Anything deeper than 5 feet could still result in damage, and it only remains safe in fresh water, the news source reports. Still, the benefits may be significant for those who often finds themselves by the water in the summer. 

So far, Sony has only announced the release of the Xperia ZR in Sweden, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands, but its American debut is expected to be sometime in the coming months. Once the Sony Xperia ZR becomes available in the U.S., it's likely to garner its fair share of attention and eager buyers. If you're ready to take advantage of the special features included on the Sony Xperia ZR and similar models, sell cell phones at Usell.com and invest in a new device. 

Pentagon clears Apple products for secure use

Pentagon clears Apple products for secure use

Data security is of paramount importance for most people who own a mobile device, and that is increased exponentially when phones and tablets are used for matters of national security. The U.S. military recognizes this and takes care to approve only the mobile devices with the most comprehensive protection in place. Now, individuals who use iPhones and iPads to handle their business can breathe a sigh of relief, as Apple products have been given the seal of approval needed to access the Pentagon's networks. 

The move will allow Apple devices that run on the iOS 6 platform, such as the iPhone and iPad, to compete with products from Samsung and BlackBerry, which have already been approved for military sales. Pentagon employees and members of the military now have more freedom to choose which products they use in their professional and personal lives, and the three brands can also compete for government contracts. 

According to Apple Insider, the company's CoreCrypto Kernel Module v3.0 was recently certified by the National Institute of Standards and Technology's Computer Security Division. This benchmark solidified the fact that iPhones and iPads are equipped with better security, making them worthy options for government workers or cautious customers. 

As each of the major brands strives to improve its security measures, customers will be able to sell cell phones and choose a product that works with their needs – all without having to worry about security concerns. While your privacy needs may not be as intense as those of the Pentagon, that shouldn't stop you from looking to trade in your cell phone for a more secure device. You can upgrade to a newer model after you sell your cell phone or sell your iPad at USell.com and receive all of the benefits that come along with improving your mobile device. 

Why do smartphone batteries drain so quickly?

Why do smartphone batteries run down so fast?

If you own a smartphone, you've got more computing power in your pocket than the governments of the world had access to 20 years ago. However, as mobile devices have become increasingly powerful, the average battery life of an iPhone or Android device hasn't kept pace. Heavy data users will likely be familiar with trying to prolong their devices' battery life for as long as possible, but why do smartphone batteries deplete so rapidly and what can you do to make your phone last longer?

The limitations of technology
Virtually every smartphone on the market uses lithium ion batteries. This type of power cell has commonly been used in a variety of electronic devices over the years, from camcorders to laptops. However, although lithium ion batteries are considered to be state of the art when it comes to mobile power solutions, they are severely limited when it comes to heavy use – particularly in today's smartphones.

Technically, the biggest problem with lithium ion batteries isn't the lithium itself, it's the graphite-based anodes that actually store the ions that provide your smartphone with power. According to Time magazine, graphite anodes aren't the ideal way to store ions, and researchers at California Lithium Battery are looking into alternatives, such as silicone.

"There's a lot of research going on, because silicon is the best material for absorbing lithium, and it has the highest potential capacity of any material now," Phillip Roberts, chief executive officer of California Lithium Battery, told the news source.

If silicon-based anodes are successfully integrated into smartphone batteries, users could see power retention increases of up to 100 percent. Roberts claims that silicon-based lithium ion batteries could hit the market in as little as two years' time.

Quick fixes
Although scientists are constantly looking for ways to improve smartphone batteries, what can you do in the meantime? Fortunately, there are a number of apps that can help you take control of your phone's memory management and wring every last drop of power from your battery.

According to CNET, Juice Defender is an essential app for prolonging battery life. With a variety of settings, this handy app lets you turn off automatic Bluetooth and Wi-Fi search functions, both of which can be a serious drain on batteries, as well as a range of other features. Alternatives to Juice Defender include AutoRun Manager and Tasker, which offer similar features and customizable settings.

Of course, if you don't already have a smartphone, why not sell cell phone handsets at USell.com and upgrade to an iPhone or Android device?

Google announces major improvements, new services at I/O 2013

Google announces major improvements, new services at I/O 2013

If you've been thinking about where to sell cell phone handsets and accessories, you might be debating whether to opt for an iOS or an Android device. Both platforms have their pros and cons, but if the announcements made at Google's sixth I/O conference are any indication, the search giant's mobile platform could soon become an even greater force to be reckoned with in the mobile space.

According to CNET, one of the most significant announcements at Google I/O 2013, which is taking place this week at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, California, is the overhaul of Google Maps. Millions of people rely on this service to get where they need to be, and soon, users will be able to take advantage of a range of new features in Maps. For example, Google is placing additional emphasis on personalization of the Maps service, including the ability for users to add customized points of interest to maps, and greater integration with social functionality, such as options to see where users' friends have visited in a particular location.

Another major announcement to come out of I/O 2013 is the impending launch of Google's streaming music service, known as All Access, which is expected to launch May 22. Competing directly with similar services such as Pandora and Spotify, All Access could also pit Google against long-time rival Apple, which has been moving toward the launch of a music streaming service for some time. Users can access a huge library of music directly from their Android device

Google also raised a few eyebrows with the unveiling of an unlocked, Android-native Samsung Galaxy S IV. The device will retail for $649 and no contract limitations will be applied to the handset.

Ready to experience the internet services of tomorrow on the latest Google devices? Then sell your cell phone at USell.com and upgrade to an Android smartphone or tablet.

Must-have apps for students

Must-have apps for students

Whether you're getting ready to don a cap and gown for graduation or gearing up for your freshman year, smartphone apps have revolutionized education. From organizational tools to online learning libraries, today's technology can help you get the most out of your education and optimize your learning experience. After selling your cell phone at USell.com and upgrading to a smartphone, download these apps to take control of your learning:

Dropbox: These days, there's no excuse for leaving a term paper at home or forgetting a crucial document. With Dropbox, you can upload all your important files to a remote server in the cloud, so you'll never be without vital data again. Available for both iOS and Android devices, Dropbox also allows you to synchronize multiple devices, so you don't have to worry about finding a research project on your Mac or leaving a multimedia presentation on your Windows machine.

Evernote: Back in the day, students relied on textbooks and lectures to grasp new concepts. Today, however, technology has opened up an almost limitless source of information for eager students. The downside to this, of course, is that it can be tough to stay on top of everything you need to know in order to succeed in your studies. This is where Evernote comes in. The ultimate organizational tool, Evernote allows you to catalog and file virtually any type of document for research later on. You can bookmark web pages, store snippets of video, create to-do lists and even share calendars across a range of devices. This is just the tip of the iceberg of what Evernote can do, so if you find yourself working on a major project, bring everything together with Evernote.

ReferenceME: If you've ever had to write an academic essay, you know that creating a bibliography and including properly formatted citations can be a little tedious. Fortunately, ReferenceME takes the headache out of adding citations, enabling you to focus on writing the perfect essay. Simply scan the barcode of the textbook you're referencing, and the app will create a properly formatted bibliography and citation list automatically. Best of all, ReferenceME can be configured to create bibliographies that adhere to a wide range of academic styles, including MLA, Harvard, Chicago and Oxford.

If you're thinking "Where can I sell cell phone handsets and accessories?" head to USell.com and upgrade to one of the latest smartphones in the world and take control of your education through these apps.

Blackberry unveils new handset, operating system at Live 2013 event

Blackberry unveils new handset, operating system at Live 2013 event

Blackberry made waves in the tech community earlier this month as consumers and pundits alike speculated about the possible unveiling of the R10 handset. Hints of the new device's specifications were leaked across the web, leading some enthusiasts to believe the R10 would boast a significantly longer battery life and a new design. Earlier today, Blackberry put the rumors to rest with the official announcement of the Q5, the latest handset to join the Blackberry family of mobile devices.

According to Thorsten Heins, chief executive officer of Blackberry, the Q5 will be marketed primarily at emerging markets, and will come in four colors – pink, white, black and red. Heins declined to mention specific pricing plans, but confirmed the budget device would be available through a range of global carriers later this year.

Blackberry enthusiasts in North America might be disappointed by the lack of a dramatic R10 reveal at the Live 2013 event, but the Canadian technology company wasn't content with just one major announcement. Heins also confirmed the impending release of the Blackberry 10.1 mobile operating system, which is available now for Blackberry's high-end handsets like the Z10. The new OS will feature keyboard shortcut functionality, as well as more than 120,000 native applications. Heins also said that regular updates and a "mobile-first" mindset would drive future development of Blackberry 10.1.

Interestingly, a key feature of the new mobile OS is its potential for automobile integration, an aspect of the smartphone market that has failed to gain much traction with other manufacturers. During an on-stage demonstration, Heins showed off how the system can be implemented in high-end cars, highlighting features such as constant connectivity, two-way video calling and a 17-inch curved display.

If you're eager to see what the Blackberry Z10 can do, sell cell phone handsets and accessories at USell.com and take Blackberry's newest mobile OS for a test drive.

The best apps for travel

The best apps for travel

Smartphones have revolutionized virtually every aspect of modern life, but the impact that mobile devices have made on travel is perhaps one of the most profound. Whether you're planning your next international vacation or just itching to get away on a short break, smartphone apps can take the headache out of your trip. Check out USell.com's roundup of the most essential apps for globe-trotting travelers.

Airbnb: No matter where you're going, accommodations are often the most costly part of your trip. If you're hoping to escape your day-to-day routine without breaking the bank, Airbnb is a great way to save money. This app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices, lets you search for alternative accommodations in 192 countries. Rather than offering you deals on the usual hotels and guesthouses, Airbnb connects you to a global marketplace of vetted members with space to rent. This is ideal for travelers heading to big cities such as New York or San Francisco, and could save you hundreds of dollars on your next trip.

TripAdvisor City Guides: Once you've got your accommodations squared away, it's time to figure out what there is to do at your destination. Rather than rely on cumbersome guide books, why not take the world with you on your smartphone with the TripAdvisor app? This handy piece of software is available for the iPhone, iPad and Android devices, and lets you search user reviews on everything from popular tourist attractions to the best restaurants. Don't miss a thing on your next vacation – download the TripAdvisor app and get the lowdown on the must-see sights from people in the know.

TripIt: Let's face it – planning a vacation can sometimes feel like coordinating a military operation. With so many things to keep track of, venturing to exciting destinations around the world can take a toll on even the most organized tourist. To take the headache out of planning your next jaunt, download TripIt. This handy application allows you to manage and change any aspect of your trip's itinerary from a single, easy-to-use interface. Need to change your flight? Not sure what time you're supposed to pick up your rental car? No problem - TripIt's got you covered. TripIt is available for iOS and Android devices.

Don't have a smartphone yet? Then sell your antiquated cell phone at USell.com and upgrade to an iPhone or Android handset today.

Spring cleaning for your Android smartphone

Optimizing your Android smartphone

If you're thinking about selling your cell phone at USell.com, you might already have your eye on one of the latest Android smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S IV or the HTC One. Although these devices feature the latest hardware, you still need to think about how to wring every last drop of power from your handset, especially if you're a power user who needs a lot of data. Fortunately, there are several ways you can keep your phone in top shape and maximize its performance.

Apps
Software applications are the heart of any smartphone, and when it comes to spring cleaning, there are numerous apps you should think about downloading. The first is Auto Memory Manager, a free app that allows you to define how your phone manages running processes and memory allocation. There are three settings – default, mild and aggressive. At the most intense level of memory management, unused application processes will be terminated almost immediately, preserving valuable memory and battery life. These settings can be customized depending on your needs, offering you control over how your phone's processes are handled.

Storage
By default, many apps will be installed to the internal memory of your handset. While this is fine if you only use a few core applications, your system can get bogged down quickly if you have dozens of apps installed. To make room and save precious battery life, try moving some apps to your phone's SD card. Although the storage space available on the card will vary, moving apps off your drive and onto the SD card can be a quick and easy way to free up some memory and improve overall performance.

Settings
Sometimes, you might not even know when your phone's battery is being drained, as apps and services that run in the background can use up memory and cause your battery to run dry. This is especially true of automatic wireless network detection processes and "hidden" data transfer services, such as location detection for GPS and social networks. To optimize your phone and conserve power, delve into the settings on your phone and ensure that the number of processes permitted to run in the background is at a minimum. Checking which apps are sending and receiving data without your knowledge might surprise you, and adjusting your phone's settings in this way can help you protect sensitive information from being compromised.