Nintendo Switch: new ways to play

It’s taken the world by storm! Read on to know more about this awesome device!

Nintendo launched a new game console taking everything to a whole new level: the Nintendo Switch™.  

Players get to enjoy their games by being able to “switch” the new hybrid console in 3 ways. So far the addiction is real!!

Get to play in 3 ways

The game console itself is a 6.2-inch LCD touch screen. Its display is 1080p, depending on which mode is used.

How to play the Tabletop mode? Open the stand at the back then place the console on any tabletop. Use the Joy-Con™ to control the game. Don’t forget to attach it on the strap or grip provided!

Switching to TV mode? Just slide the console to the Nintendo Switch dock. Then use the USB Type-C to connect it to the TV (need an extra connector? We got you covered!). Then take your pick with the strap or grip.

 

Handheld mode’s your choice? Slide the Joy-Con™ to the side of the device. And you’re good to go! Pretty neat right?

Sold out welcome for the Nintendo Switch

Nintendo announced that a whopping 2.74 million consoles were sold just last March. This number went above official and unofficial projections.

 

Nonetheless there is still a high demand present. And just to keep up, some consoles were even shipped through air, though that was still not enough.  

 

GameStop even said that the Nintendo Switch is not getting sold out in a day or so… but JUST HOURS. They expect for this kind of demand will be evident for quite some time.

 

Still searching for yours? Some tips we found is ALWAYS to check availability or any announcements from the stores. And if you need to line up to get the game, wear your most comfortable shoes and arrive at least an hour before the store opens.

 

The good reviews may have had its fair share of making the demand for the consoles this high!

One review says that there’s already so much that can be done even with the initial small game list. Another states that its touch screen is also easy to use and quite an upgrade when compared to previous Nintendo consoles. Another plus is just how HD the screen is (we’ll show you how to KEEP it that way below).

CNET finds it a pro that you can share screenshots of your game directly to Facebook and Twitter! And if you previously bought Amiibos, you’re in luck! You can use them in the Switch.

This unbox review also showed the fun you can have with the Nintendo Switch— showing the the different games you could play with it.

 

Though one very hard to ignore con is that the console itself is quite expensive at $299 USD. (Not to mention its accessories).

What can we expect to happen?

Fans of the Zelda game line were in for a treat since there was a voice pack update that was just released. You can now listen to the game in one language then use another language for the subtitles simultaneously.

Blaster Master Zero will also be getting an update making new downloadable characters available and access to an even a harder mode of gameplay.

The game Yooka-Laylee is also making it’s way to Switch. And is reported the console will get a better version of the game.

There has also been a list of games that will be added to the console this 2017. Some of the games are: Ultra Street Fighter II: The Final Challengers, Sonic Mania, NBA 2K18 and Super Mario Odyssey.

There’s also a rumor that Pokemon might also be added to the list of the games! The tech giant posted about the Pokemon Stars in their official pages. Although there’s a possibility that this will also be specially released in the 3DS.

Another perk that we may find in the Nintendo Switch soon is the Rainway App. It’s a downloadable app that will let gamers play PC games in portable devices—which can include the Nintendo Switch. Though no confirmation yet if this will be available in the eShop.

 

We’ve got great news for you…

By popular demand, Tech Armor now has a glass screen protector for the device!!! We’ve created the perfect screen protector by using our signature Ballistic Glass.

This will make sure that even from the heavy daily wear and tear, you never have to worry about cracks on the screen. And we’ve made it HD clear so it won’t affect the crisp graphics when using it in tabletop or handheld mode.

Nothing but the best protector for one of the most awesome consoles right? 😉

We’ve got MORE great news for you!

In addition to our signature glass, we’ve added some accessories to help keep your Nintendo Switch charged and ready. Our SMART 3-Port Wall Charger allows you to charge your switch without fear of overvoltage using our SMART I.D AND still have room to charge two more devices/accessories (like the Joy-Con Grip). Looking to keep your young gamers entertained on the road? Our Type C Car Charger is an excellent way to make sure your Nintendo Switch stays charged and ready (did we mention the extra USB port for your phone??). Finally, our Type C to USB-A cable provides a superior connection between all charging devices. Grab this as a spare when you’re out and about or just to have around the house.

 

So you can keep on playing and we’ll always be protecting!

Always be in the loop with the latest! Check out Tech Armor’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+ for all the updates you’d want to know about! We’d love for you to be part of the TA Nation too!

 

Sources:

http://www.nintendo.com/switch/

http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/04/nintendo_switch_smashes_target_with_2_74_million_hardware_sales_in_march

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BoLYDDj0kRo

http://www.valuewalk.com/2017/05/nintendo-switch-even-shipped-via-air-quickly-meet-high-demand/

http://bgr.com/2017/05/01/nintendo-switch-sold-out-shipping/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidthier/2017/04/27/gamestop-nintendo-switch-selling-out-in-hours-not-days/#68cbcad7e525

https://www.polygon.com/2017/2/22/14701878/where-to-buy-the-nintendo-switch

http://hothardware.com/reviews/nintendo-switch-review-buying-advice-tips-maximum-fun?page=5

https://techcrunch.com/2017/03/06/why-nintendo-switch-is-amazing-now-despite-a-small-launch-game-lineup/

http://www.trustedreviews.com/nintendo-switch-review

http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/review/games-consoles/nintendo-switch-review-3652907/?p=2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIwU5haWs4k

https://www.cnet.com/products/nintendo-switch/review/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyH_9vaTvLg

http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/review/games-consoles/nintendo-switch-review-3652907/

https://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-update-out-now/1100-6449711/

https://www.gamespot.com/articles/free-update-for-nintendo-switchs-blaster-master-ze/1100-6449741/

http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/05/yooka-laylee_could_be_much_improved_by_the_time_the_switch_version_arrives

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-04-13-nintendo-switch-games-list-2017-release-dates

http://www.pokemon.co.jp/info/2017/04/170428_p05.html?i006=news

https://www.forbes.com/sites/insertcoin/2017/05/02/nintendo-is-starting-to-tease-pokemon-stars-but-for-switch-or-3ds/#fb4d0db51c01

https://rainway.io/

http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/04/rainway_app_promises_60fps_streaming_of_pc_games_to_consoles_like_the_nintendo_switch

Apple Event 2017: Surprises in Store

The latest news, rumors, reports on the Apple’s Spring event this year.

There have been rumors that Apple will have a Spring Event this March. If recent years are any indication, we should expect an announcement soon. And as always lots of speculation of what to expect has exploded on the internet! From the new line of iPads to the new version of the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus we’ve all got them covered here!

Let’s do a recap of what we have come up with so far:

 

When and where will it be held?

Rumors surfaced that it will take place in early March. Venue for the event may take place in the Bay Area such as the Infinite Loop Town Hall in Cupertino, Yerba Buena Center in downtown San Francisco or even in the new Apple Campus 2 (if completed in time).

Update: However, recent rumors suggest the launch will happen March 20 or as far as April 4. The latter date will possibly coincide with the opening of Apple Park, the company’s new headquarters.

What will Apple announce?

New iPad Pro 2 lineup

In the upcoming event, Mac Otakara predicts that 4 new models of iPad Pro will be announced. The sizes are 12.9, 10.5, 9.7 and 7.9 inches.

The 12.9 and 9.7 inches will be an updated version while the 10.5 and 7.9 inches are new additions to the line. The 7.9-inch iPad will feature a Smart Connector and may possibly replace the iPad mini.

Most talked about though, is the new 10.5-inch model. This tablet may have the same display as the 9.7-inch since it will have a smaller bezel. Some rumors indicate this model may have an edge-to-edge display screen with no Home button! The expected screen resolution for this is 2,224 x 1,668 pixels.

An A9 processor will reportedly be used for the 9.7-inch model while the 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch models will have the A10X processor. There are also plans Apple will standardize the features for all the tablets like having quad microphones.

There’ve been talks that a possible upgrade for the line is shifting from LCD panels with LED backlight to OLED displays. Rumor has it that it’s Apple’s way of testing the waters for the iPhone 8. This type of display has also been rumored for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S8.

All models will be launched during the event but shipping for the 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch models could still be in May or June.

Update: There’s also a speculation that the new devices may be available the same day they’re announced.

Rumored prices for the second-gen 9.7-inch iPad Pro can start at $499 while the 10.5-inch at $599; estimated prices for the rest are still unknown.

So far the only response from Apple are the recently released new iPad Pro Ads showing they can be the next PCs.

Higher-capacity iPhone SE

Apple will add to the iPhone SE line as well with a 128GB storage option to the existing 16GB and 64GB. Estimated price for the new phone is around $559.13-$621.25 (USD).

iPhone 7 and 7 Plus in color Red?

An iPhone 7 and 7 Plus in Red may finally be on its way to the shelves this year! This could be Apple’s way of gaining more sales before any refresh will be made.

 

How Tech Armor plans to protect these devices

Right now, we’re fairly confident our existing Ballistic Glass, HD Clear Film and Prime Glass screen protectors for the 12.9” and 9.7” iPad Pro will be compatible with the new models, but we can’t be 100% until the event. We are currently developing potential solutions for the 10.5” and 7.9” models and we will protect these devices with our HD Clear and Ballistic Glass screen protectors as soon as they’re launched. Our Prime Glass screens will be released shortly after. Since Prime Glass is more costly to manufacture, we MUST be 110% certain on the installed fit before we proceed.

So far that’s a rundown of the talks about the Apple Spring Event this 2017. Stay tuned as we update this article for any development. And of course how you can protect these next set of devices with Tech Armor! 😉

Sources:

http://www.macotakara.jp/blog/rumor/entry-31938.html

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2017/02/24/apple-news-headlines-iphone-new-leak-touchid-macbook-pro/#430531761738

http://mashable.com/2017/02/21/march-ipad-event-rumor/#pQDPV1JgeEqr

https://www.macrumors.com/2017/02/20/ipad-pro-march-event-128gb-iphone-se/

http://fortune.com/2017/02/23/tech-breakthroughs-apple-iphone-anniversary/

http://www.imore.com/apple-march-2017-event–

http://appleinsider.com/articles/17/02/20/rumor-apple-to-launch-ipad-pro-2-red-iphone-7-128gb-iphone-se-at-march-event

http://www.mirror.co.uk/tech/apple-march-event-red-iphone-9879171

https://www.forbes.com/sites/brookecrothers/2017/02/26/apple-readies-new-2017-ipad-pro-low-cost-ipad-but-release-date-not-certain/#2dbfc2d6939f

http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-will-reportedly-release-4-ipads-in-2017-2017-2

https://9to5mac.com/2017/02/23/ipad-pro-refresh-2017-delayed/

http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20170223PD209.html–

https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLHFlHpPjgk72fOylAAJRhV0jBrHwK0nn3&v=INs_bnk4yJQ

https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-slams-pcs-ipad-pro-ad-campaign/

http://appleinsider.com/articles/17/02/17/apple-launches-new-series-of-ipad-pro-ads-as-anticipated-hardware-refresh-looms

http://www.trustedreviews.com/news/apple-ipad-pro-2-news-rumours-price-release-date-specs-uk-2017

https://appadvice.com/post/2017-ipad-pro/740441

https://www.macrumors.com/2017/02/27/10-inch-ipad-2224×1668-resolution/

https://9to5mac.com/2017/02/27/apple-spring-event-iphone-ipad-mac/

Update Sources:

http://www.macworld.co.uk/feature/apple/what-expect-at-apple-spring-2017-event-apple-march-event-2017-date-rumours-april-3599868/

https://9to5mac.com/2017/03/07/ipad-event-date-rumor/

https://www.theapplepost.com/rumoured-ipad-media-event-on-4th-april/

https://www.appleworld.today/blog/2017/3/7/rumor-apple-ipad-event-to-be-held-on-april-4-2017-at-apple-park

http://www.trustedreviews.com/news/apple-ipad-pro-spring-event-april-4

 

Tis the season for gifts, so we’ve teamed up with our friends at iMore to offer you the chance to WIN a free iPhone 7 and Tech Armor Protection Bundle! For the next 10 days, you can ENTER HERE for your shot at winning a brand new iPhone 7 in Matte Black including a Prime Glass Screen Protector, ShockFlex Case (Black), and mFi-certified Lightning Cable.

ENTER TO WIN A FREE IPHONE 7 TODAY!

6 Ways to WIN!

You have better things to do this holiday season than fill complicated forms or take long surveys, so we’ve made entering our contest a breeze! In addition to joining our email list, we’ve included several more options that will add entries for you like following our Twitter page our checking us out on Instagram! BONUS ALERT: A purchase of any Tech Armor product adds FIVE bonus entries for you!

The Prizes

Only ONE lucky winner will receive the prize pack including:

(1) iPhone 7 in Matte Black

• The newest flagship phone from Apple, the iPhone 7 dramatically improves the most important aspects of the iPhone experience with an advanced new camera system, immersive stereo speakers, the brightest, most colorful display and the best performance and battery life ever in an iPhone. Did we mention splash and water resistance?!

(1) Tech Armor Prime Glass Screen Protector

• Made with Accessory Glass 2 by Corning®, Tech Armor PRIME represents the next evolution of glass screen protection and offers a completely new approach at the molecular level to produce a more durable barrier against scratching and breakage caused by day-to-day use.

(1) Tech Armor ShockFlex Case (Black)

• The Tech Armor ShockFlex case blends the rigid strength of a polycarbonate frame with the flexibility and shock absorption of a soft TPU exterior. Like crumple zones on a car, the ribbed, thermoplastic edging is designed to contract and absorb impact before it reaches your device.

(1) Tech Armor mFi-certified Lightning Cable

• The Tech Armor Apple mFi-Certified Premium Lightning Cables connect, charge, or sync your smartphone or tablet with top quality, dual-shielded technology and a durable, braided nylon jacket.

The Rules

There are many ways to enter, each with varying point values, so check out the widget at the bottom of the entry page. Complete all of the tasks for maximum entries, but keep in mind that all winning entries are verified and if the task was not completed or cannot be verified, a new winner will be chosen. This free giveaway is open until 11:59pm on December 17th, and the winner will be announced shortly after the close date.

All About PC/TPU

As you browse around Tech Armor’s website you might notice the term “PC/TPU” in some of our detailed product descriptions. But what, exactly, does PC/TPU mean? Let’s begin with the PC part.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate describes a group of thermoplastic polymers that contain carbonates. Since this isn’t Chemistry class, we won’t go into too much detail about what this means chemically speaking. Basically, polycarbonates are strong, durable materials that are easy to work with. They can be easily molded, or thermoformed. Polycarbonate is moldable during the manufacture process but the end result of the thermoforming procedure is a durable, long-lasting product. A phone case, for example, that is made of polycarbonate is going to provide very lightweight but extremely durable protection for your phone.

Some benefits of polycarbonate include:

• It is highly durable, impact-resistant, and won’t crack or fracture
• It is heat resistant and therefore easy to mold, making it ideal for a variety of applications
• It is easily recyclable which means it’s also good for the environment

Thermoplastic Polyurethane

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is used in a variety of manufacturing applications due to its elasticity and transparency as well as its natural resistance to abrasions and ability to repel grease and oil. Thermoplastic polyurethanes are exceptionally versatile. They are used in the construction and medical industries, and in all manner of gadgetry and tech products. A phone case made from TPU will withstand the little scrapes and scratches that can result from everyday use due to TPU’s innate abrasion resistance. That same TPU phone case will also be smudge proof, or fingerprint resistant, due to the material’s natural resistance to grease and oil.

Some benefits of Thermoplastic Polyurethane include:

• It is highly abrasion resistant, which protects it from scratches and scrapes
• Its exceptional elasticity allows it to be easily molded for a variety of applications
• It is transparent, making it an ideal material for clear phone cases and other see through products
• It is oil and grease resistant, which keeps grubby prints from sticking to products made from TPU     

Tech Armor uses PC/TPU in a variety of products to bring you some of the most durable, lightweight, long-lasting, scratch and smudge resistant products on the market. Our PC/TPU phone cases are affordable, durable, and feather light.

The rumors have been flying around for weeks now, but one thing we know for certain: Apple will announce a new iPhone (rumored to be the 6s) next week on September 9^th.

Here’s everything we’ve heard so far:

Release:
Tech Radar reports that recent leaks from two major German carriers state the 6s will go on sale on September 18, however an earlier leaked Vodafone email claimed that it will be later in the month on September 25. Either way, it seems likely that the newest Apple flagship phone will likely be available before October.

Features:

Size
Far from the leap between iPhone 5 and 6, the iPhone 6s is rumored to be almost identical in size with a reported 0.2mm increase in thickness to accommodate a more robust battery, Force Touch technology and upgrades for Touch ID. Even with the increase, we’re happy to report that existing Active Series and FlexProtect case lines from Tech Armor will still provide complete protection for the new model as well.

Force Touch
While 9to5Mac speculates Force Touch will be called something else when it’s announced on the iPhone, many sites agree that it will be a part of the new device. Already in use on the track pad on the latest MacBook Pro models along with the Apple Watch, Force Touch technology expands on screen response to determine the difference between a tap and a press. This will open up a host of new UX applications on the latest device as well as further drive home the need for a quality screen protector to withstand the increased pressure. Tech Armor Ballistic Glass and HD Clear screen protectors (available in conjunction with the new model release) offer superior protection while retaining maximum clarity and force touch sensitivity.

Camera
In the wake of the “selfie” trend, Apple looks to be bolstering its front-facing camera from the existing 1.2 MP up to 5 MP according to Digital Trends who also predict an upgraded rear camera with the potential for 4K video.

Pricing
All sources seem to indicate a similar price structure to last year’s launch of the iPhone 6 as Apple will likely keep the 16GB model in this next upgrade.

Resale
Why pay full price for the new Apple model?? There are several channels available today for you to resell your existing phone and drastically offset the cost of the new one. Here are a couple recent sources of information:

http://www.macrumors.com/2015/09/02/iphone-6-trade-in-options-2015/
http://www.gottabemobile.com/2015/08/31/how-to-sell-iphone-6-for-most-money/

Important Note Regarding Resale:
The single largest factor that will limit your buyback is the condition of the screen and (secondarily) the body of the phone. Arming your device with a Tech Armor screen protector and case is the easiest way to make sure you’re getting the most value for your phone when the time comes to switch.

At Tech Armor we’re ready to rock as soon as Apple makes the big announcement, so stay tuned for a big announcement of our own when the new device hits shelves including how you can register to win a new iPhone 6s or 6s Plus!

If you’re like most of the country, your technology is incredibly important to you. And it should be – today’s mobile devices allow us to work, play, and interact with each other in ways never thought possible just a few decades ago. If you use any kind of smart device, you’re already aware of just how important it is to keep it safe. Taking the initiative to arm your technology is a smart move, and one you won’t’ regret.

Just what do we mean by ‘arming’ your technology? Essentially, we’re talking about taking steps to protect it fully – place some armor on it that will help it stand up to whatever your day can throw at it. By combining things like ballistic glass and protective cases for active people, you’ll be giving your phone or tablet protection whether you’re rock climbing, running a marathon, or just accidentally let your 4 year old get ahold of your phone.

But just why is it so important to take steps to arm your technology? There are a few obvious reasons for it.

• Your investment is often something you rely on daily, and when it becomes damaged it’s easy to end up struggling to get through your day – this is especially true if you use your phone or tablet for work. By protecting it, you’ll ensure that you don’t end up without the ability to work properly.

• Did you know that a screen replacement alone can cost as much as $300, even with a warranty in place? By arming your tech, you’ll be preventing future high costs from coming at you. The minor investment of protection can save you time, energy and money down the road.

• You’ll also protect your investment so you can get a solid return on it later. Phone and tablet resales are a big part of how many offset the costs of their next device purchase. The more damaged your device, the harder it is to get a good price during the resale. By arming your technology you’ll be ensuring that you get top dollar when the time comes to sell.

It doesn’t take much to protect your phone or tablet, and with a couple of small purchases you’ll give yourself peace of mind and give your phone protection. Check out our selection of items today to find out which ones are best for your devices.

Today’s mobile devices are important to anyone who has one. After all, your tablet or smartphone serves as a portable computer and can quickly and easily let you get connected to the internet, talk to others, play games, work, and more. From work to play to communication to selfies, mobile devices are an integral part of our lives.

However, they’re also expensive. And as time marches forwards, it’s easy for your device to quickly become obsolete and outdated. As a result, most people will only have their device for a year or two before choosing to upgrade to a new item.

Doing so is often made a bit more affordable by trading in your existing item or by reselling it on the open market. Many service providers, for example, offer nearly the full value for your device if it’s in good condition. You can also trade in items at electronics store, sell them online, and more. This resell can often help you reduce the cost of your new device.

But there’s a catch. To get the most for your device when you resell it, you will have to keep it in the best shape possible or you won’t get the full value possible. Just a few scratches on the screen is enough to drag down your resale price. As a result, it’s important that you spend a bit on protection for your mobile devices.

There are two primary things worth investing in:

• Screen protection – Don’t settle for the flimsy, thin screen protectors. Instead, invest in high quality ballistic glass that will actually keep your screen safe from impacts, scratches, smudges, and more. It’s an easy way to keep your screen pristine.

• Cases – A case handles everything your screen protector won’t. While the screen protector is keeping the face of your device safe, the case keeps the brains and body protected.

Buying both of these is important. Only buying one doesn’t completely do the job, and will leave part of your phone vulnerable. If you’re planning on reselling your device in the future, you’ll need the right protection. Check out our selection of products and you’ll find easy, affordable ways to maximize your device’s resale value.

These days it’s easy to take our tech devices for granted. We rely on them so frequently that they’ve become a part of our lives that we can’t imagine living without. But that level of constant use and the fact that we take them for granted means that it’s easy to overlook important things that we should be using along with them.

A perfect example of this is battery backup. Were you aware that about 85% of the people who use mobile devices today don’t carry any kind of backup for their batteries? That’s a huge number of the population, and it also means that only 15% of us are ready when we suddenly run out of battery power.

You’ve probably already experienced this problem for yourself, and being left with just a few bars on your battery power indicator can lead to serious stress. Potential issues associated with losing power include:

• • No phone at all for those who use their mobile phone exclusively with no land line
• • No way to contact work or complete your work if your mobile device plays a role in your job
• • No way to contact help if an emergency arises
• • Potential loss of data due to a sudden shut down
• • Commuters can lose GPS functionality and other tools that help get them through their day
• • And more

 

All in all, losing power is a major problem. It’s also something that can happen easily. Today’s apps are designed to prolong life as much as possible, but they can still lead to serious power drains in some cases. You might lose power before you know it, leaving you with little options.

A charger for a car is a good idea for most, but going even further with a portable powerbank is an even better idea. Our powerbanks allow you to get a full charge quickly and start using your device again no matter where you are. Even if you have no access to a car’s power outlet or a wall charger, you’ll be able to charge up fast. Check out our full range of powerbanks to see this affordable solution to a growing problem for yourself.