Android Lollipop has been hailed as a revolution, making smartphone interfaces better looking and more functional. There were several changes to the previous version of KitKat. In addition, Google also worked upon a lot of bug fixes while plugging in several helpful features that attaches exceptional power to the OS. The first device to get a taste of the Lollipop was Google’s Nexus devices. Gradually, third party manufacturers like Samsung, Sony, HTC and Asus caught up with the update and users worldwide have consequently got the intuitive experience of unique functions like Sense and TouchWiz.

Android 5.0 Lollipop Review: Material Design

The biggest change with Android Lollipop (5.0) has been the material designing. This version of Android presents flatter                 icons, bold color bars, and simpler shapes. There has been a total revamp of the design language, first time seen with Android OS. In fact, this kind of material designing is nothing new. We had seen Apple pick up on the same line in 2013. With Android Lollypop, everything looks rounded, cleaner and notably flatter.

The ‘techie’ appeal is more consumer-friendly and cuddlier. Even the action buttons have been simplified to represent the basic shapes. A white background replaces the transparency that we saw with Android 4.4 KitKat. Also, the multitasking screen is now presented as a rotating cascade like the Google-Now cards. Even if you had several documents open in one app, you can access them separately from this screen.

Android Lollypop Review: Notifications

The notifications panel has certainly matured much with the Lollypop. Google finally introduced the long awaited lock screen notification that allows you to see the events without having to unlock the device. The lock screen showcases text messages, appointments and email. All it requires is a tap to go straight down to business.

In case you are busy with something else – watching a movie or reading a book, new notifications will appear briefly and choosing to ignore it will get you back to the thing you have been doing.

Android Lollypop Review: Google Now update

Google Now has already been proving to be pretty useful but soon enough, it will be getting increased support through third party applications. A month after the launch of Android 5.0, Google already had more than 30 third party vendors who would be providing information for Google Now.

Android Lollypop Review: User Accounts and Pinning Apps

Phones are no longer serving a single individual. The very capability of smartphones make them a perfect gadget to be used everyone in the family. The same devices will be used by you, your kids, your spouse, your brother, and other close family members. Consequently, Google offers for several user accounts with the Lollypop. Pinning Apps on the other hand will ensure that the second user wouldn’t be able to access things like personal emails, social accounts, and other accounts.

Android Lollypop Review: Smart Lock, Tap, Go

Lock screen security can be easily breached. This raises the need for some extra functions that protects personal information at all times. Smart lock allows you to pair your device with trusted accessories like cars and fitness wearable. Face Unlock too gives a unique perspective to unlocking the phone.

Android Lollypop Review: Project Volta

Project Volta is aimed at improving the battery life of your smartphone. It ensures that the apps connected to the phone gobble up less amount of power.

Android Lollypop Review: Verdict

Minor setbacks aside, Android Lollypop is a game changer in all respects. Improved functionality, better interface, better security and an increased flexibility of customization, makes it the best version that Android has ever made.

The demand for wearable devices is on the rise, and the most popular among them is the smart watch. Several tech companies like Sony, LG, Apple and Motorola have already jumped into the market of smart watch. With so many options to choose from, it might get a little bit difficult for you to make a decision. Fortunately, Android OS powered smart watches have given us some compelling features to consider them as our next gadget. Let us look at some reasons why you should invest your money on an Android smart watch.

1. Voice Recognition Platform: By far, the voice recognition platform of Google has proved to be the best among all reasons that make it a good buy. Google Now has definitely added tons of value to the Android Wear watches. When your wrist is powered by a Android smart watch, getting useful information regarding news, services and directions for any area will turn out to be really easy. The capability to speak to the Android smart watch is vital with the gadget, which makes it possible to carry out basic functions through giving voice instructions. So, the bottom line is to make information more easily accessible.

2. Communication on the Move: Though smartphones too offer this facility, but the need to hold them in your palms negate out in the case of smart watches. It is absolutely easy to sync your Android phone with your Android watch. Once synced properly, you will receive each and every alert and notification on your smart watch. It means that you will never miss any calls as the wrist vibration will keep you informed even when you are in the middle of a noisy traffic. You can also send the calls to voicemail in case you are not in a position to receive them.

3. Association with Other Companies: Nowadays, the Android watch is not just about technology, but aesthetics and looks as well. On one hand where major tech companies like Samsung, LG and HTC are teaming up with Google to come up with better hardware, the hardcore watch making companies like Tag Heuer and Fossil on the other hand are also giving their contribution. This is quite evident from the fact that recently Tag Heuer made an announcement regarding working with Intel and Google for developing Android smart watch.

4. Integration: In order to maximize the capabilities of Android watch, Google is working towards making the device compatible with even the household equipment. For example, the thermostats from Nest can be absolutely integrated with your Android watch, hence turning your device into a remote control for different equipment.

5. Scheduling: This is perhaps the most obvious reason why people wear a wrist watch. But, the efficiency of your wrist watch increases exponentially when it is powered by an Intel processor. With an Android watch tied to your wrist, you do not have to pull out your smartphone from your pocket and check out the schedules of important tasks you have to carry out or the meetings you need to attend. It means no need to toggle between your ordinary wrist watch and smartphone.

Do let us know which feature are you anticipating the most in the Android Watch?

The demand for wearable devices is definitely on the rise these days. People have started to spend their money on these futuristic devices, and this is the reason why more and more tech companies are jumping into the scene. In 2015, most of the major tech companies, such as Apple, Samsung, and Sony have decided to roll out their wearable devices for the consumers. So, let us provide you a peep into the top 5 wearable gadgets of 2015 you should know about.

Apple Watch

Quite undoubtedly, Apple Watch is one of the most anticipated wearable devices of 2015. This smart watch has created a lot of buzz with its recent launch. The watch is available in three different segments – Apple Watch, Apple Watch Edition, and the Apple Sport Watch. With a choice of feature sets like dial shapes, color options, digital crown technology, and in-built notification system, it will appeal to the personalization needs of users.

Pebble Smartwatch

It was during the CES 2015 event when Pebble showcased its 3^rd edition of smart watch. With its 3^rd edition, the tech company would be expecting to accumulate a lot more accomplishment than it has had with the previous versions. The previous editions of Pebble smartwatch were loaded with basic features like sending/receiving emails and messages with a really powerful battery (up to 7days of battery backup). The 3^rd edition will definitely offer something more to the users.

Tag Heuer Smartwatch

The brand ‘Tag Heuer’ needs no introduction in the watch industry. It is associated with quality and sheer luxury. But, now the company has decided to step into the world of tech gadgets. In 2015, you can expect Tag Heuer Smartwatch to hit the market, which would be run by Intel processor. The Swiss watch maker has given an indication that the wearable device will borrow some of its design element from the digital watch range of Tag Heuer.

HTC Gluuv

In case you are looking for something quite different then HTC Gluuv may fit into your needs. It would be the first wearable device from HTC, which will offer flawless integration with HTC One M8. By connecting your HTC smartwatch to M8, it would become possible for you to sync both of them and get regular updates. One of the most striking features of HTC Gluuv is its amazingly powerful camera, of 87.2 MP!

Sony Smart Eyeglass Attach

This device might remind you of the Google Eyeglass. Following the footsteps of Google, Sony is planning to come up with its own version of Smart Eyeglass attach. This device will be loaded with sensor HUB, Bluetooth, wireless LAN, and a powerful processor. In addition, it will also feature an OLED Micro Display accompanied with an optical unit.

With so many options to choose from, the competition between the wearable devices of 2015 is definitely going to get tougher. However, this will certainly prove beneficial for the consumers, as tech companies will have to keep improving their products in order to stay ahead of the competition.

Wearable technology, a relatively new phenomenon to enter the market, has already caused a lot of stir among gadget users. The smart watch market is emerging as an interesting technology disruptor. With the launch of the new Apple watch, corporate life may be well set for a visibly drastic change in future. The innovative smart product is made to be used in conjunction with Apple phones and tablets, and can very well become the harbinger of change in our day-to-day corporate lives. Let’s dive in and see the influence this watch can have on our corporate lives.

The Possible Impact

While corporate life and activities today have a lot to do with smartphones and tablets, the launch of the Apple watch means that people are now more likely to glance at their wrists rather than whip out their smart devices every now and then. According to market research, a staggering 45% of consumers are expected to acquire and use smart watches in the coming years. This powerful piece of technology and its adoption can very well bring about a sea change in corporate life, office policies, productivity and daily routine. Positive changes are likely to improve corporate life and spur creativity and efficiency, while negative changes can have a detrimental overall impact.

Staying Engaged

Mobile phone alerts and notifications have long been considered one of the largest distractions at work, although it might sometimes be necessary for people to receive work-related communication on their smart devices. With the new Apple watch, receiving notifications has just got easier. This has the potential to distract people in office and take up more of their time with activities of a more personal nature. Corporate efficiency can suffer a setback for the same reason. Breaks in concentration during an intense period of work might happen more readily if people are sporting smart watches.

Many are of the opinion that, instead of the new technology, it is the work culture and practices that influence this change. The need for corporate employees is to concentrate on their work for long durations of time without distractions, and the Apple watch might provide them with yet another excuse to take multiple, non-productive breaks. To minimize the occurrence of these, several experts have noted that there needs to be an overhaul of company policies.

Changes to Expect

With the massive potential that the Apple watch has to offer, it can be easy to turn things around and use the device as a positive influence on corporate life. With a plethora of productivity apps and solutions expected to be available shortly, companies can integrate the device into their daily business workflow. There is a need for more stringent security practices and privacy policy to protect sensitive information. A great example of using the Apple watch to aid corporate processes is to use the technology for access control and time attendance instead of clunky key cards. Company updates, important information about events, seminars and training programs can also be made available on the Apple watch, making it a smooth and seamless companion for your corporate life, exuding a positive, conducive influence.

Do write in to us and let us know what other possible ramifications can come out of the Apple Watch.

Recently, one of the most interesting developments in the field of wearable smart technology took place when Apple released their much awaited Apple watch. Excitement has already been sky-high about the impending release of this device, with Apple CEO Tim Cook fueling the fire by saying that this gadget will “change the way you live your life”.

This new, exciting piece of advanced wearable technology coming from the Apple stable has already had Apple enthusiasts waiting, and its release has caused a lot of excitement and fanfare. After teasing the Apple watch for the first time last year, Apple provided us with a detailed preview of the device this month, and has confirmed that the device will be available in stores sometime in April. Developers around the world have already prepared themselves to launch their own apps for the Apple watch platform, and there is already a steadily growing accessory market related to the product.

The Journey of the Apple Watch

The Apple watch was teased last year during the launch of the much-awaited iPhone 6. Eager fans had to wait for quite a while before the second, detailed teaser came this month, along with the launch of the new 12-inch model of the MacBook. The device is scheduled to hit the stores in major countries in the month of April, about six months after Apple provided us with a first look at it.

Competitively priced and coming in various designs, the Apple watch is set to enter an already competitive market currently full of Android platform based devices. The specifications and feature set on offer, along with the value and quality of the Apple brand makes this device an attractive choice for Apple users around the world.

Features and Specifications

For people who are accustomed to wearable technology coming in fairly generic, unimpressive designs, Apple has solved the problem by creating multiple designs for the Apple watch. The three basic varieties available are –

• The basic, entry level Apple watch
• The Apple watch Sport, which comes with a ruggedized body and reinforced glass on top
• The Apple watch Edition, built for those with discerning fashion tastes

There are also choices based on color, packing cases and dial sizes, with a number of cosmetic and functional customization options.

With the UI, Apple has tried to address some of the problems people have when trying to work through icons on a small screen. The new Digital Crown technology uses the dial on the side to navigate the device, zoom in and out and also acts like the home button in Apple devices. The device can also recognize the force and pressure of the touch input and respond accordingly.

Apple has also incorporated a new notification system that enabled the watch to tap or nudge your wrist to alert you about important notifications. Most Apple device apps will be able to sync with the device, send notifications and present you with mini previews of their information on the watch display. The Apple watch is also set to contain a number of health and fitness features, and be perfectly compatible with Apple’s virtual assistant Siri.

Will you be ordering the Apple Watch soon? Write in to us and let us know.

In today’s highly competitive world, the marketing team of any retail company has to put a lot of effort to woo its targeted customers and retain its existing ones. Customers continue being more curious and less patient these days. This means that a slight window of doubt about your product can move them away from your business.

A result-oriented strategy to keep customers glued to your products/services or maintain their loyalty is to employ gamification into your marketing mix. Didn’t ring a bell? Well, gamification denotes engaging your new and existing customers by incorporating the raw concept of games in your marketing strategy. Here, the games should be more in line of rewards and incentives. These incentives would act as a motivating factor for the customers to continue staying engaged with your business. Let’s check out some vital factors that can drive the gamification endeavors of your company’s retail loyalty program.

Social Factor

Most of the viral games are kind of social in nature. It means that people of almost all ages and from all sorts of backgrounds can play those games. So, your aim should be to integrate your business incentive with such social online games.

A classic example is Samsung that blends social and user interaction by rewarding users for participating in Q&A session, watching videos, reviewing products and other such activities.

Time Factor

I believe that the concept of “limited-time offer” delivers results most of the times. It definitely plays with the mind of the customers, and pushes them to go for the bait. So, when you design a gamification program for your customers, then make sure the first incentive or reward come to them really easily. It should be close enough instead of making it very tough, so that the customers find hard to say no to it.

Challenge Factor

Customers get skeptical when something is easily achievable or accessible. For this reason, it is important to include a little bit of a challenge in the gamification of your loyalty program. Keep a big reward at the end, and the reward should be valuable enough, not just in terms of money. At the same time, remind the customer from time to time about how close he or she is to earning an incentive.

Game / Fun Element Factor

Obviously, fun is the biggest reason why people play incentive based games. It is the fun factor that makes an incentive based game popular and successful. For this reason, from time to time, try to come up with surprises for your customers in the form of freebies or limited offers. This will definitely keep them glued to your loyalty program.

Recognition Factor

The incentive you offer should always be in the mind of the users. If they are not able to recognize what they are running after, then sooner or later they will lose interest in your gamification program. So, always remind them about the forthcoming incentive or reward waiting for them to earn, even if it is a small one.

Do write in to us and let us know how you plan to utilize the immense potential of gamification to enhance your business visibility online.

According to the latest statistics by Business Insider, 58% of the mobile retail revenue has been driving the top 500 brands in 2014. In-app purchases account for the rest of the business. Another study by Google indicates that 82% of smart phone users choose to browse retail websites on their phones rather than on their computers. Today, there is a mobile app for simply everything. For businesses, this has implications far deeper than gaining leads and enhancing revenue streams. Here’s a list of top 5 retail apps that every modern business should utilize to their benefit –

Vend POS

Vend POS has been integrated with the iPad and enable businesses to connect with clients and global customers at any given time. Used by businesses all over the globe, Vend POS can be integrated with receipt printers, barcode scanners and cash drawers. Making financial transactions, reporting, and building analytics for your business is made simple on this app. Even without an active internet connection, Vend POS allows a seamless business process. The software has been further integrated with programs like Shopify, Alidrop, Timely, Xero, and Stitchlabs.

PayPal Here

Another innovative app for iPad users, PayPal Here lets you to accept payments and do transactions just by connecting to mobile device and dedicated PayPal dongles. It is a highly trusted transaction platform for many businesses across the globe and further allows the business to send e-receipts over email and text messages. Since it requires customers to check in with their mobile devices, PayPal Here is also a beneficial tool to personalize interactions and guarantees a repeat purchase.

Collect

Collect has been developed to engage businesses in making repeated business out of first time sales. Used by many businesses globally, Collect integrates customer loyalty and reward programs to attract customers to do repeated purchases. Personalized marketing exchanges also enable the businesses to increase foot traffic sales and establish push notifications. Companies can use it as a tool to track every customer’s shopping history and send customized notifications.

RetailNext

RetailNext has long been used as an in-store solution, helping collect massive amount of customer data and actionable insights to engage and convert. The application taps into several data sources including Wi-Fi, POS Systems, and promotional calendars, staffing systems, weather and much more. The app also organizes and converts all such data into reports and graphs that are easy to understand.

Xero

Xero enables your business to stay updated on your financial front even when you are not connected to the internet. The app allows you to approve, create and generate invoices using your mobile device. The application will help you upload receipts and track expenses. The automation features integrated with this app lets you import and categorize transactions on the go, allowing the business to focus on the core business activities rather than spending time on daily balance sheets.

Modern day retailing is all about simplifying the way we buy and sell. Do write in to us and let us know which apps from the above list are a part of your digital marketing strategies.