Tuesday, 28 April 2015
Tuesday, 23 December 2014
Environmental Pollution
Plastic pollution is defined as the accumulation of the different
types of plastic material on land, as well as in water bodies like
rivers, oceans, canals, lakes, etc. As a commodity, it is used on a
large scale all around the world. Basically, it is a synthetic polymer
that consists of many organic and inorganic compounds, and is mostly
derived from petrochemicals like olefins. Plastic materials are mainly
classified as thermoplastics (polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride) and
thermosetting polymers (polyisoprene). Apart from these, they can also
be classified as biodegradable, engineering, and elastomer plastics.
Although they are extremely useful in many ways, and have been an
important part of the global polymer industry, their production as well
as disposal, pose a great threat to all the life forms on Earth.
Plastic generally degrades in about 500 - 1000 years, though we may never know its actual degradation time, as this material has been in long-term use only since the last century. During its manufacture, many hazardous chemicals are emitted that can lead to dreadful diseases in humans as well as other animals. Ethylene oxide, xylene, and benzene are some of the chemical toxins present in plastic, which can have hazardous effects on the environment. It is not easy to dispose it off, and it can cause permanent harm to living beings. Several additives found in plastic such as phthalates, adipates, and even alkylphenols have been recognized as toxic materials. Vinyl chloride, which is used in the manufacturing of PVC pipes, is classified as a carcinogen.
Causes
As plastic is less expensive, it is overused. When it is disposed off in landfill sites, it does not decompose at a fast rate, and hence pollutes the land or soil in that area.
Most people tend to throw plastic bottles and polythene bags away, even after a single use. This drastically increases its pollution rate on land as well as in the oceans, mainly in the developing and underdeveloped countries.
Plastic bags, plastic bottles, discarded electronic components, toys, etc., clog the water bodies like canals, rivers, and lakes, especially in the urban areas.
Every year, about 100 million tons of plastic are produced all over the world. Out of this, 25 million tons of non-degradable plastic gets accumulated in the environment.
Out of the entire quantity of solid municipal wastes in the US, about 20% consists of plastic and associated harmful polymers. About USD 50 million is the value of the US plastic industry.
Approximately 70000 tons of plastic are dumped in the oceans and seas globally. Discarded fishing nets and other synthetic material are eaten by terrestrial as well as aquatic animals, by mistaking them for jellyfish or food, leading to the bio-accumulation of plastic inside their bodies. This can cause choking in them, ultimately leading to their death. Scores of fish and turtles die every year because of this.
Effects
The rural areas are more prone to this type of pollution and the related effects, as a majority of the people from these areas use plastic on a large scale.
Many stray animals end up eating plastic bags and bottles due to improper disposal systems, and this can cause their death.
During the rainy season, the plastic rubbish that has fallen on the road gets washed away into the nearby water reservoirs, canals, and drains, leading to their choking up and overflowing. Also, the water quality gets spoiled due to the addition of these synthetic materials.
When dumped in landfills, plastic materials interact with water and form hazardous chemicals. If these compounds seep down towards groundwater aquifers, they degrade the water quality, leading to groundwater pollution.
Plastic pollution in marine water bodies leads to innumerable deaths of aquatic animals, and this also affects the aquatic plants to a considerable degree.
Blockage due to plastic accumulation may form shelters for the breeding of mosquitoes and other harmful vectors insects, which might cause numerous diseases in humans.
The quality of drinking water on our planet is deteriorating, as plastic releases some toxic chemicals such as Styrene Trimer, Bisphenol A, and a by-product of Polystyrene. These products are worsening the drinking water situation with every passing day. Bisphenol A is a harmful chemical that damages the reproductive system of animals.
Bio-accumulation of plastic inside animals is one of the most recent effects of plastic pollution. Over many years, the accumulated plastic releases harmful chemicals, and also breaks down into small pieces, causing extreme discomfort to the animals. After their death, the body might decompose, but the plastic fragments may remain as a threat to other animals.
Wind carries and deposits plastic from one place to another, increasing the land litter. It also gets stuck on fences, trees, towers, buildings, etc., and any animal that comes in its vicinity might even get tangled and suffocate to death.
Burning plastic leads to contamination of the atmosphere, due to the release of poisonous chemicals, leading to air pollution. Recycling requires laborers, who are at the risk of developing skin and respiratory problems due to inhalation of toxic chemicals.
Solutions and Preventive Measures
Though commodities made of plastic are handy, it is time to become aware of the harm that plastic causes to life on Earth. Before the picture turns even more ugly, it is better that you take some effective preventive measures to reduce this type of pollution.
To bring a decline in its usage, start using paper or cloth bags for shopping and other purposes as much as possible, and avoid bringing plastic bags at home.
Understand the severity of the problem of plastic pollution, and know the consequences of dumping plastic in water and on land.
Ensure proper disposal of plastic.
Plastic which is disposed off can be recycled and used in many different ways such as for tote bags, wallets, or pouches. There are biodegradable plastic bags available, which can help to a considerable extent.
These changes might be gradual, and even less appealing against the problem; but taking small steps can greatly contribute to the reduction of plastic pollution. It is time for us to take some preventive steps, and ensure a better life for the future generations.
By Amruta Gaikwad
Last Updated: September 29, 2011
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/effects-of-plastic-pollution.html
Plastic generally degrades in about 500 - 1000 years, though we may never know its actual degradation time, as this material has been in long-term use only since the last century. During its manufacture, many hazardous chemicals are emitted that can lead to dreadful diseases in humans as well as other animals. Ethylene oxide, xylene, and benzene are some of the chemical toxins present in plastic, which can have hazardous effects on the environment. It is not easy to dispose it off, and it can cause permanent harm to living beings. Several additives found in plastic such as phthalates, adipates, and even alkylphenols have been recognized as toxic materials. Vinyl chloride, which is used in the manufacturing of PVC pipes, is classified as a carcinogen.
Causes
As plastic is less expensive, it is overused. When it is disposed off in landfill sites, it does not decompose at a fast rate, and hence pollutes the land or soil in that area.
Most people tend to throw plastic bottles and polythene bags away, even after a single use. This drastically increases its pollution rate on land as well as in the oceans, mainly in the developing and underdeveloped countries.
Plastic bags, plastic bottles, discarded electronic components, toys, etc., clog the water bodies like canals, rivers, and lakes, especially in the urban areas.
Every year, about 100 million tons of plastic are produced all over the world. Out of this, 25 million tons of non-degradable plastic gets accumulated in the environment.
Out of the entire quantity of solid municipal wastes in the US, about 20% consists of plastic and associated harmful polymers. About USD 50 million is the value of the US plastic industry.
Approximately 70000 tons of plastic are dumped in the oceans and seas globally. Discarded fishing nets and other synthetic material are eaten by terrestrial as well as aquatic animals, by mistaking them for jellyfish or food, leading to the bio-accumulation of plastic inside their bodies. This can cause choking in them, ultimately leading to their death. Scores of fish and turtles die every year because of this.
Effects
The rural areas are more prone to this type of pollution and the related effects, as a majority of the people from these areas use plastic on a large scale.
Many stray animals end up eating plastic bags and bottles due to improper disposal systems, and this can cause their death.
During the rainy season, the plastic rubbish that has fallen on the road gets washed away into the nearby water reservoirs, canals, and drains, leading to their choking up and overflowing. Also, the water quality gets spoiled due to the addition of these synthetic materials.
When dumped in landfills, plastic materials interact with water and form hazardous chemicals. If these compounds seep down towards groundwater aquifers, they degrade the water quality, leading to groundwater pollution.
Plastic pollution in marine water bodies leads to innumerable deaths of aquatic animals, and this also affects the aquatic plants to a considerable degree.
Blockage due to plastic accumulation may form shelters for the breeding of mosquitoes and other harmful vectors insects, which might cause numerous diseases in humans.
The quality of drinking water on our planet is deteriorating, as plastic releases some toxic chemicals such as Styrene Trimer, Bisphenol A, and a by-product of Polystyrene. These products are worsening the drinking water situation with every passing day. Bisphenol A is a harmful chemical that damages the reproductive system of animals.
Bio-accumulation of plastic inside animals is one of the most recent effects of plastic pollution. Over many years, the accumulated plastic releases harmful chemicals, and also breaks down into small pieces, causing extreme discomfort to the animals. After their death, the body might decompose, but the plastic fragments may remain as a threat to other animals.
Wind carries and deposits plastic from one place to another, increasing the land litter. It also gets stuck on fences, trees, towers, buildings, etc., and any animal that comes in its vicinity might even get tangled and suffocate to death.
Burning plastic leads to contamination of the atmosphere, due to the release of poisonous chemicals, leading to air pollution. Recycling requires laborers, who are at the risk of developing skin and respiratory problems due to inhalation of toxic chemicals.
Solutions and Preventive Measures
Though commodities made of plastic are handy, it is time to become aware of the harm that plastic causes to life on Earth. Before the picture turns even more ugly, it is better that you take some effective preventive measures to reduce this type of pollution.
To bring a decline in its usage, start using paper or cloth bags for shopping and other purposes as much as possible, and avoid bringing plastic bags at home.
Understand the severity of the problem of plastic pollution, and know the consequences of dumping plastic in water and on land.
Ensure proper disposal of plastic.
Plastic which is disposed off can be recycled and used in many different ways such as for tote bags, wallets, or pouches. There are biodegradable plastic bags available, which can help to a considerable extent.
These changes might be gradual, and even less appealing against the problem; but taking small steps can greatly contribute to the reduction of plastic pollution. It is time for us to take some preventive steps, and ensure a better life for the future generations.
By Amruta Gaikwad
Last Updated: September 29, 2011
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/effects-of-plastic-pollution.html
10 Simple Ways to Relieve Stress
1. Meditate
A few minutes of practice per day can help ease anxiety. “Research suggests that daily meditation may alter the brain’s neural pathways, making you more resilient to stress,” says psychologist Robbie Maller Hartman, PhD, a Chicago health and wellness coach.
It's
simple. Sit up straight with both feet on the floor. Close your eyes.
Focus your attention on reciting -- out loud or silently -- a positive
mantra such as “I feel at peace” or “I love myself.” Place one hand on
your belly to sync the mantra with your breaths. Let any distracting
thoughts float by like clouds.
2. Breathe Deeply
Take
a 5-minute break and focus on your breathing. Sit up straight, eyes
closed, with a hand on your belly. Slowly inhale through your nose,
feeling the breath start in your abdomen and work its way to the top of
your head. Reverse the process as you exhale through your mouth.
“Deep breathing counters the effects of stress by slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure,” psychologist Judith Tutin, PhD, says. She's a certified life coach in Rome, GA.
3. Be Present
Slow down.
“Take
5 minutes and focus on only one behavior with awareness,” Tutin says.
Notice how the air feels on your face when you’re walking and how your
feet feel hitting the ground. Enjoy the texture and taste of each bite
of food.
When you spend time in the moment and focus on your senses, you should feel less tense.
4. Reach Out
Your
social network is one of your best tools for handling stress. Talk to
others -- preferably face to face, or at least on the phone. Share
what's going on. You can get a fresh perspective while keeping your
connection strong.
5. Tune In to Your Body
Mentally
scan your body to get a sense of how stress affects it each day. Lie on
your back, or sit with your feet on the floor. Start at your toes and
work your way up to your scalp, noticing how your body feels.“Simply be aware of places you feel tight or loose
without trying to change anything,” Tutin says. For 1 to 2 minutes,
imagine each deep breath flowing to that body part. Repeat this process
as you move your focus up your body, paying close attention to
sensations you feel in each body part.
6. Decompress
Place
a warm heat wrap around your neck and shoulders for 10 minutes. Close
your eyes and relax your face, neck, upper chest, and back
muscles. Remove the wrap, and use a tennis ball or foam roller to massage away tension.
“Place
the ball between your back and the wall. Lean into the ball, and hold
gentle pressure for up to 15 seconds. Then move the ball to another
spot, and apply pressure,” says Cathy Benninger, a nurse practitioner
and assistant professor at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical
Center in Columbus.
7. Laugh Out Loud
A
good belly laugh doesn’t just lighten the load mentally. It lowers
cortisol, your body’s stress hormone, and boosts brain chemicals called
endorphins, which help your mood. Lighten up by tuning in to your
favorite sitcom or video, reading the comics, or chatting with someone
who makes you smile.
8. Crank Up the Tunes
Research
shows that listening to soothing music can lower blood pressure, heart
rate, and anxiety. “Create a playlist of songs or nature sounds (the
ocean, a bubbling brook, birds chirping), and allow your mind to focus
on the different melodies, instruments, or singers in the piece,”
Benninger says. You also can blow off steam by rocking out to more
upbeat tunes -- or singing at the top of your lungs!
9. Get Moving
You don’t have to run in order to get a runner’s high. All forms of exercise, including yoga and walking, can ease depression
and anxiety by helping the brain release feel-good chemicals and by
giving your body a chance to practice dealing with stress. You can go
for a quick walk around the block, take the stairs up and down a few
flights, or do some stretching exercises like head rolls and shoulder shrugs.
10. Be Grateful
Keep a
gratitude journal or several (one by your bed, one in your purse, and
one at work) to help you remember all the things that are good in your
life.
“Being grateful for your blessings cancels out
negative thoughts and worries,” says Joni Emmerling, a wellness coach
in Greenville, NC.
Use these journals to savor good
experiences like a child’s smile, a sunshine-filled day, and good
health. Don’t forget to celebrate accomplishments like mastering a new
task at work or a new hobby.
Retrieve from:http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/blissing-out-10-relaxation-techniques-reduce-stress-spot?page=3
Retrieve from:http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/blissing-out-10-relaxation-techniques-reduce-stress-spot?page=3
Why is Recycling Important?
Before knowing the importance and benefits of recycling and its
relation to a better environmental condition, it is essential to
understand what is recycling. Recycling refers to the process of
collecting used materials which are usually considered as 'waste' and
reprocessing them. In this process these used materials are sorted and
processed to be used as 'raw materials' for the production of new
products. It varies from 'reuse' in the sense that while reuse just
means using old products repeatedly, recycling means using the core
elements of an old product as raw material to manufacture new goods.
Some of the most common items that are recycled are plastic, glass,
paper, batteries, aluminum, etc.
Process of Recycling
The recycling process involves three stages. In the first stage, the old products are collected and processed, where they are sorted, cleaned and made ready for recycling or manufacturing new products. The second stage involves the manufacturing of new products from the raw material obtained by the processing of the old products. Finally, the process ends with the purchasing of recycled goods by the consumers. The more people step forward to buy recycled products, the better the success of the process can be ensured. Buying recycled products will only increase when every individual will develop an awareness of the difference that can be made by utilizing their old household objects as raw materials to produce new goods and help the environment by recycling. Let's now see why is recycling important.
Saves Energy
When new products are manufactured from the raw material obtained from recycled products, it saves a lot of energy which is consumed for production. When new products are manufactured from 'virgin materials', the amount of energy consumed is much higher. Besides, the energy required to acquire and transport the 'virgin' raw materials from their natural sources is also saved. Add to that the energy which is required to clean and protect the environment from the pollutant waste products, especially those which are non-biodegradable (plastic) and fill up the landfill areas.
Saves Environmental Conditions and Reduces Pollution
Recycling helps in preventing global climate change to a great extent. By minimizing the energy spent on industrial production, it also helps in reducing greenhouse gas emission. Some of the major fossil fuels used in most industries include coal, diesel, gasoline, etc. All these emit harmful gases such as methane, sulfur dioxide, carbon-dioxide to the environment. The processing of fresh raw materials also creates toxic materials which pollute the environment. By reducing the energy used, it also minimizes the amount of fuel usage which in turn reduces the amount of harmful pollutants in the environment.
Saves Natural Resources
We know that recycling involves the processing and usage of core elements of an old product for the production of new products. This helps in saving our natural resources to a great extent. For example, once an old newspaper is recycled we do not need to use the resource of another tree to produce new paper products. This way, proper recycling can help us preserve our natural resources for our future generation and maintain the balance in nature.
Economic Benefits
Similar to energy and natural resources, recycling also helps in saving a lot of expense, required for the production of new products from 'virgin' materials. These expenses include the entire production cycle starting from acquiring the raw materials, transferring them from their place of origin to production places, processing and manufacturing costs. It creates employment opportunities for a lot of people, involved in the various stages of the process. This in turn contributes to the economic development of a state or country.
Saves Space for Waste Disposal
Most of the landfill sites are filled up with a lot of waste products that could have been recycled effectively. Some of these waste materials belong to the non-biodegradable category which takes a long time to decompose. Recycling enables proper usage of these waste products and saves space for landfills. The pace with which landfills are getting filled up, soon we might run short of landfills unless we start following recycling at our own home and spread the word to others.
Interesting Recycling Facts
♦ It is said that every person creates around 4.7 pounds of waste every day.
♦ In the United States about 33.4% solid waste is recycled, 12.6% is burned in combustion facilities and about 54% is disposed of at a landfill site.
♦ Recycling an aluminum can preserves enough energy required to run a 100-watt bulb for 20 hours, a computer for 3 hours or a TV for 2 hours. Isn't it an interesting fact?
♦ About 125 recycled aluminum cans save up enough energy required to supply power to one home for 1 day.
♦ Recycled aluminum cans, are ready for reuse in just six weeks!
♦ An amazing fact about glass is that it never wears out and can be recycled forever. A glass bottle takes approximately 1 million years to decompose in a landfill site.
♦ A recycled glass bottle can save enough energy to run a computer for 25 minutes.
♦ Recycled glass containers can save about 9 gallons of fuel.
♦ Another amazing fact - recycled paper produces less air pollution than if it was made from raw materials.
♦ Each ton of recycled mixed paper can conserve energy equivalent to around 185 gallons of gasoline.
Recycling is an important step to undertake for preserving our planet by reducing environmental pollution and conserving energy. Hope this article has given you an insight about its benefits.
By Paramita Ghosh
Last Updated: December 30, 2011
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/why-is-recycling-important.html
Process of Recycling
The recycling process involves three stages. In the first stage, the old products are collected and processed, where they are sorted, cleaned and made ready for recycling or manufacturing new products. The second stage involves the manufacturing of new products from the raw material obtained by the processing of the old products. Finally, the process ends with the purchasing of recycled goods by the consumers. The more people step forward to buy recycled products, the better the success of the process can be ensured. Buying recycled products will only increase when every individual will develop an awareness of the difference that can be made by utilizing their old household objects as raw materials to produce new goods and help the environment by recycling. Let's now see why is recycling important.
Saves Energy
When new products are manufactured from the raw material obtained from recycled products, it saves a lot of energy which is consumed for production. When new products are manufactured from 'virgin materials', the amount of energy consumed is much higher. Besides, the energy required to acquire and transport the 'virgin' raw materials from their natural sources is also saved. Add to that the energy which is required to clean and protect the environment from the pollutant waste products, especially those which are non-biodegradable (plastic) and fill up the landfill areas.
Saves Environmental Conditions and Reduces Pollution
Recycling helps in preventing global climate change to a great extent. By minimizing the energy spent on industrial production, it also helps in reducing greenhouse gas emission. Some of the major fossil fuels used in most industries include coal, diesel, gasoline, etc. All these emit harmful gases such as methane, sulfur dioxide, carbon-dioxide to the environment. The processing of fresh raw materials also creates toxic materials which pollute the environment. By reducing the energy used, it also minimizes the amount of fuel usage which in turn reduces the amount of harmful pollutants in the environment.
Saves Natural Resources
We know that recycling involves the processing and usage of core elements of an old product for the production of new products. This helps in saving our natural resources to a great extent. For example, once an old newspaper is recycled we do not need to use the resource of another tree to produce new paper products. This way, proper recycling can help us preserve our natural resources for our future generation and maintain the balance in nature.
Economic Benefits
Similar to energy and natural resources, recycling also helps in saving a lot of expense, required for the production of new products from 'virgin' materials. These expenses include the entire production cycle starting from acquiring the raw materials, transferring them from their place of origin to production places, processing and manufacturing costs. It creates employment opportunities for a lot of people, involved in the various stages of the process. This in turn contributes to the economic development of a state or country.
Saves Space for Waste Disposal
Most of the landfill sites are filled up with a lot of waste products that could have been recycled effectively. Some of these waste materials belong to the non-biodegradable category which takes a long time to decompose. Recycling enables proper usage of these waste products and saves space for landfills. The pace with which landfills are getting filled up, soon we might run short of landfills unless we start following recycling at our own home and spread the word to others.
Interesting Recycling Facts
♦ It is said that every person creates around 4.7 pounds of waste every day.
♦ In the United States about 33.4% solid waste is recycled, 12.6% is burned in combustion facilities and about 54% is disposed of at a landfill site.
♦ Recycling an aluminum can preserves enough energy required to run a 100-watt bulb for 20 hours, a computer for 3 hours or a TV for 2 hours. Isn't it an interesting fact?
♦ About 125 recycled aluminum cans save up enough energy required to supply power to one home for 1 day.
♦ Recycled aluminum cans, are ready for reuse in just six weeks!
♦ An amazing fact about glass is that it never wears out and can be recycled forever. A glass bottle takes approximately 1 million years to decompose in a landfill site.
♦ A recycled glass bottle can save enough energy to run a computer for 25 minutes.
♦ Recycled glass containers can save about 9 gallons of fuel.
♦ Another amazing fact - recycled paper produces less air pollution than if it was made from raw materials.
♦ Each ton of recycled mixed paper can conserve energy equivalent to around 185 gallons of gasoline.
Recycling is an important step to undertake for preserving our planet by reducing environmental pollution and conserving energy. Hope this article has given you an insight about its benefits.
By Paramita Ghosh
Last Updated: December 30, 2011
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/why-is-recycling-important.html
Samsung Galaxy S6 'Project Zero' release date, features and specs rumours: Metal frame pictures leak
The flagship Samsung Galaxy S5 has been on sale for a while now and
the firm has seen disappointing sales so it's time to look forward to
the Galaxy S6 which is codenamed Project Zero. Here's everything we can
tell you about the Galaxy S6 release date and specs based on rumours and
speculation.
Every major flagship smartphones for 2014 has now launched including the iPhone 6, Google Nexus 6 and Samsung Galaxy Note 4. Many of you will be interested in when Samsung will launch a follow-up smartphone to the Galaxy S5 and you've come to the right place.
Samsung, like other hardware manufacturers has got into a rhythm of launching a new flagship smartphone once per year. Just as the Galaxy Note 4 and iPhone 6 were expected to launch in September and did so, we (along with many others) expect the Galaxy S6 to launch close to MWC.
The Korean tech giant has launched previous Galaxy S phones near to the Barcelona show; in fact, the Galaxy S5 was announced in the Spanish city earlier this year. MWC 2015 is scheduled for 2 March so we fully expect the Galaxy S6 to be unveiled close to this date at an Unpacked event.
There is the odd murmur that Samsung will bring it forward due to disappointing Galaxy S5 sales. If we hear more, we'll let you know.
Screen
It seems perfectly plausible that the Galaxy S6 will use a SuperAMOLED screen, Samsung's favoured display technology. As for size, the trend is for new models to have bigger displays so with the Galaxy S5 at 5.1in, the Galaxy S6 could be as large as 5.5in, matching the LG G3 or somewhere in-between.
Speaking of the LG G3, there are two main contenders for the Galaxy S6 screen resolution: Quad HD (1440 x 2560) matching LG's flagship smartphone or 4K (2160 x 3840). The former seems more likely to us, now that Samsung has introduced it in the Galaxy Note 4 but it's certainly not out of the question. SamMobile touts it will be Quad HD but doesn't know what size.
There are rumours of a flexible or curved display which Samsung has been developing and we've seen on the Galaxy Round. Whether the firm utilises this on the flagship Galaxy S6 is unclear. It's possible but from our point of view, unlikely.
Design and build
The Samsung Galaxy S5 got slammed in reviews (including ours) for its plastic build quality and this is something which should be improved when it comes to the Galaxy S6. Rumours suggest the firm could be using graphene as a material. More likely, however, is that Samsung will continue the metal design used by its Galaxy Alpha in the Galaxy S6.
Software
Samsung is making Tizen products but it's almost certain that the Galaxy S6 will stick with Android. Google has announced Android 5.0 Lollipop so Samsung has plenty of time to get this version pre-installed and we expect a new version of Samsung's TouchWiz interface.
Processor, memory and storage
Under the bonnet we think the Galaxy S6 will be powered by one of Qualcomm's 64-bit processors (Android Lollipop will support 64-bit) which have already been announced and scheduled to arrive inside devices in the first half of 2015 – how convenient. Android L vs Android 4.4 KitKat comparison review: What's the difference?
The Snapdragon 808 and Snapdragon 810 are the two options here and Samsung could launch each in different markets. The former supports up to 1600 x 2560 displays and the latter allows for full 4K.
SamMobile claims the Galaxy S6 will come with its own new Exynos 7420, a 64-bit chip with four Cortex-A53 and four Cortex-A57 cores. However, there will also be a Snapdragon 810 version which is the one we could end up getting in the UK.
On the storage front, the phone is rumoured to come in 32-, 64- and 128 GB models to choose from. Samsung is likely to equip the Galaxy S6 with 3 GB of RAM.
Cameras
There's no word on the Galaxy S6 camera yet but we expect it to either be the same 16Mp resolution with some improvements or an even higher resolution, perhaps 20Mp. SamMobile says the firm is currently deciding between the two but says it is likely the firm will stick with 16Mp with optical image stabilisation like the Note 4.
Front cameras are increasingly important and the Galaxy S6 looks set to get a 5Mp shooter to match the freshly announced Galaxy A3 and Galaxy A5.
By Chris Martin | PC Advisor | 22 December 14
Every major flagship smartphones for 2014 has now launched including the iPhone 6, Google Nexus 6 and Samsung Galaxy Note 4. Many of you will be interested in when Samsung will launch a follow-up smartphone to the Galaxy S5 and you've come to the right place.
Samsung Galaxy S6: Release date
Although there is nothing official from Samsung yet (don't expect anything for a while), there is plenty to say about the release date of the Galaxy S6. For starters it's extremely unlikely to arrive this year.Samsung, like other hardware manufacturers has got into a rhythm of launching a new flagship smartphone once per year. Just as the Galaxy Note 4 and iPhone 6 were expected to launch in September and did so, we (along with many others) expect the Galaxy S6 to launch close to MWC.
The Korean tech giant has launched previous Galaxy S phones near to the Barcelona show; in fact, the Galaxy S5 was announced in the Spanish city earlier this year. MWC 2015 is scheduled for 2 March so we fully expect the Galaxy S6 to be unveiled close to this date at an Unpacked event.
There is the odd murmur that Samsung will bring it forward due to disappointing Galaxy S5 sales. If we hear more, we'll let you know.
Samsung Galaxy S6: Specs
Plenty of whispers are circulating the rumour mill on what specs and features the Samsung Galaxy S6 will offer. Some sound farfetched; others are more likely. Now a detailed leak by SamMobile reveals what Samsung is planning for the Galaxy S6 so read on. The specs revealed by the site are backed up by a screenshot from the AnTuTu benchmark app.Screen
It seems perfectly plausible that the Galaxy S6 will use a SuperAMOLED screen, Samsung's favoured display technology. As for size, the trend is for new models to have bigger displays so with the Galaxy S5 at 5.1in, the Galaxy S6 could be as large as 5.5in, matching the LG G3 or somewhere in-between.
Speaking of the LG G3, there are two main contenders for the Galaxy S6 screen resolution: Quad HD (1440 x 2560) matching LG's flagship smartphone or 4K (2160 x 3840). The former seems more likely to us, now that Samsung has introduced it in the Galaxy Note 4 but it's certainly not out of the question. SamMobile touts it will be Quad HD but doesn't know what size.
There are rumours of a flexible or curved display which Samsung has been developing and we've seen on the Galaxy Round. Whether the firm utilises this on the flagship Galaxy S6 is unclear. It's possible but from our point of view, unlikely.
Design and build
The Samsung Galaxy S5 got slammed in reviews (including ours) for its plastic build quality and this is something which should be improved when it comes to the Galaxy S6. Rumours suggest the firm could be using graphene as a material. More likely, however, is that Samsung will continue the metal design used by its Galaxy Alpha in the Galaxy S6.
Software
Samsung is making Tizen products but it's almost certain that the Galaxy S6 will stick with Android. Google has announced Android 5.0 Lollipop so Samsung has plenty of time to get this version pre-installed and we expect a new version of Samsung's TouchWiz interface.
Processor, memory and storage
Under the bonnet we think the Galaxy S6 will be powered by one of Qualcomm's 64-bit processors (Android Lollipop will support 64-bit) which have already been announced and scheduled to arrive inside devices in the first half of 2015 – how convenient. Android L vs Android 4.4 KitKat comparison review: What's the difference?
The Snapdragon 808 and Snapdragon 810 are the two options here and Samsung could launch each in different markets. The former supports up to 1600 x 2560 displays and the latter allows for full 4K.
SamMobile claims the Galaxy S6 will come with its own new Exynos 7420, a 64-bit chip with four Cortex-A53 and four Cortex-A57 cores. However, there will also be a Snapdragon 810 version which is the one we could end up getting in the UK.
On the storage front, the phone is rumoured to come in 32-, 64- and 128 GB models to choose from. Samsung is likely to equip the Galaxy S6 with 3 GB of RAM.
Cameras
There's no word on the Galaxy S6 camera yet but we expect it to either be the same 16Mp resolution with some improvements or an even higher resolution, perhaps 20Mp. SamMobile says the firm is currently deciding between the two but says it is likely the firm will stick with 16Mp with optical image stabilisation like the Note 4.
Front cameras are increasingly important and the Galaxy S6 looks set to get a 5Mp shooter to match the freshly announced Galaxy A3 and Galaxy A5.
By Chris Martin | PC Advisor | 22 December 14
How to get an Android phone or tablet in or out of safe mode: Use recovery mode for troubleshooting
Android phones
have quickly become a central part of millions of people's daily lives.
So much so, that to being without that pocket digital assistant would
be an unconscionable situation for many of us. While we protect the
exteriors with cases, and use services such as Android Device Manager
to find them when they get lost or stolen, one area that can strike
fear into the heart is that of the device itself becoming corrupted by a
virus,
or simply stopping working due to some software fault. Thankfully
Android phones feature built-in software that can help recover the
system if things go awry.
The recovery mode is something that you won't want to use often, but will be very grateful if it comes to your rescue. Essentially its a part of the system that resides on your phone and handles the wiping and writing of data relating to the operating system. So when you install updates or perform factory resets, these tasks are performed by the recovery mode tools. As you can guess, they're very powerful, and can destroy data quickly, so it's a good idea not to experiment too much when you're using them. But, if you're careful, they can be incredibly useful tools with which to fix your troubled phone.
If you're still under contract with your mobile provider, then it's a good idea to let them investigate a faulty phone before you go wiping various things, but many problems can be solved via the recovery mode, so it's a reasonable option for the DIY types.
For many Android phones the first menu you'll meet is the Fastboot one. This gives you access to a normal boot up sequence, switching into the recovery mode, or a factory reset, the last of which will delete all information and installed apps from the phone. You'll often see a few other options with mysterious names like 'BP Tools', but it's best off leaving those ones alone as they can mess up your handset if you choose the wrong options. For now you will want to choose the recovery mode option. To navigate the menu you'll need to read the instructions written on the screen. For the Moto G the volume down button cycled through the options and the volume up selected the one you wanted.
Once inside the recovery mode there are a few different options available. The first is a simple reboot, which won't affect the system at all, but each of the others are a little more serious. If you've downloaded an update to the operating system on your computer, then you'll be able to load it onto the phone here. The two methods available are from an SD card (if your device has one) or the ADB (which stands for Android Debug Bridge). Both are not for the beginner, as side loading an operating system can have quite catastrophic outcomes if not done correctly. For those who want to proceed down that route you will find several guides available online, but the overly technical nature means we won't be covering them in this guide.
The two remaining options are still destructive, but in a safer way. Wipe data/factory reset is pretty self explanatory, and will remove any data currently on your phone. It doesn't back it up anywhere, so you won't be able to recover anything once you choose to start that process, but if your phone has become unreliable, very laggy, or you fear you might have unwittingly downloaded a virus, this is the thorough wipe that could clear the problem. Wipe cache partition is a little different, in that it will delete the various temporary files that Android uses when installing apps or other system related tasks. It doesn't delete user data, and your apps will remain intact. It's only really something to try if your system is slowing down or developing odd glitches, but you don't want to go straight to the wipe everything command. We're selecting wipe data/factory reset as we want our Moto G back to day it arrived. Again read the instructions on the screen as to which buttons do what. You'll notice on the Moto G that they are different in the recovery mode menu than they are to the Fast boot menu, which could have caused a nasty accident.
Again read the instructions on the screen as to which buttons do what. You'll notice on the Moto G that they are different in the recovery mode menu than they are to the Fast boot menu, which could have caused a nasty accident. The menus are very clear about the dangers of wiping data though, and ask you very clearly whether you really want to proceed.
Your device will now go through its power up sequence and when it has finished you'll be presented with a clean operating system into which you'll need to enter your various account details and being reinstalling your apps.
Hopefully now, any problems you were experiencing will have disappeared. Just don't go downloading any suspicious apps from the app store and you should be fine.
By Martyn Casserly | PC Advisor | 22 December 14
The recovery mode is something that you won't want to use often, but will be very grateful if it comes to your rescue. Essentially its a part of the system that resides on your phone and handles the wiping and writing of data relating to the operating system. So when you install updates or perform factory resets, these tasks are performed by the recovery mode tools. As you can guess, they're very powerful, and can destroy data quickly, so it's a good idea not to experiment too much when you're using them. But, if you're careful, they can be incredibly useful tools with which to fix your troubled phone.
How to fix an android phone with recovery mode: When would I use recovery mode?
If your device is having issues booting up when you turn it on, or displays an error message of some kind, or even gets locked in a boot cycle where it just keeps starting over and over again, the recovery mode could come in quite handy. As it bypasses the normal loading procedure you have the chance to delete any apps that might have corrupted your system, install updates from an SD card or PC, install a custom ROM if that's your kind of thing, or simply wipe the entire phone so you can start again with a clean handset.If you're still under contract with your mobile provider, then it's a good idea to let them investigate a faulty phone before you go wiping various things, but many problems can be solved via the recovery mode, so it's a reasonable option for the DIY types.
How to fix an android phone with recovery mode: Accessing the recovery mode menu
Accessing the recovery mode is reasonably straightforward when you know the right buttons to press, but as these vary from device to device it will require a few minutes on Google, or the manufactures website, to work out which is the combination for you. In all cases you'll need to power off your phone completely before you begin. On our test phone, the Moto G, the process is started by holding down the power button as well as the volume down button for a few seconds. When you release the combination your phone should avoid the normal startup screen, with its graphics and manufacturers logo, and instead display a small list of options. Again the precise nature of the screens will vary slightly depending on your device, but the general principles should remain the same.For many Android phones the first menu you'll meet is the Fastboot one. This gives you access to a normal boot up sequence, switching into the recovery mode, or a factory reset, the last of which will delete all information and installed apps from the phone. You'll often see a few other options with mysterious names like 'BP Tools', but it's best off leaving those ones alone as they can mess up your handset if you choose the wrong options. For now you will want to choose the recovery mode option. To navigate the menu you'll need to read the instructions written on the screen. For the Moto G the volume down button cycled through the options and the volume up selected the one you wanted.
How to fix an android phone with recovery mode: Using the recovery mode menu
We encountered a slight problem after selecting the Recovery mode option, in that the Moto G started to load up a new page but then displayed a prone Android figure with the words No Command underneath. After some searching online we discovered that this is not an uncommon situation, and holding the volume up button for around fifteen seconds then tapping the power button, brought us to the Recovery menu. This kind of thing is to be expected when you use these system level features, as there are no instructions or help sections for these sort of ventures. So be sure to have access to a computer before you begin, and do look up the guidelines for your particular model of phone.Once inside the recovery mode there are a few different options available. The first is a simple reboot, which won't affect the system at all, but each of the others are a little more serious. If you've downloaded an update to the operating system on your computer, then you'll be able to load it onto the phone here. The two methods available are from an SD card (if your device has one) or the ADB (which stands for Android Debug Bridge). Both are not for the beginner, as side loading an operating system can have quite catastrophic outcomes if not done correctly. For those who want to proceed down that route you will find several guides available online, but the overly technical nature means we won't be covering them in this guide.
The two remaining options are still destructive, but in a safer way. Wipe data/factory reset is pretty self explanatory, and will remove any data currently on your phone. It doesn't back it up anywhere, so you won't be able to recover anything once you choose to start that process, but if your phone has become unreliable, very laggy, or you fear you might have unwittingly downloaded a virus, this is the thorough wipe that could clear the problem. Wipe cache partition is a little different, in that it will delete the various temporary files that Android uses when installing apps or other system related tasks. It doesn't delete user data, and your apps will remain intact. It's only really something to try if your system is slowing down or developing odd glitches, but you don't want to go straight to the wipe everything command. We're selecting wipe data/factory reset as we want our Moto G back to day it arrived. Again read the instructions on the screen as to which buttons do what. You'll notice on the Moto G that they are different in the recovery mode menu than they are to the Fast boot menu, which could have caused a nasty accident.
Again read the instructions on the screen as to which buttons do what. You'll notice on the Moto G that they are different in the recovery mode menu than they are to the Fast boot menu, which could have caused a nasty accident. The menus are very clear about the dangers of wiping data though, and ask you very clearly whether you really want to proceed.
How to fix an android phone with recovery mode: Getting your phone back to its factory settings
When you select the wipe data/factory reset option you'll see some writing appear at the bottom on the screen, informing you of the progress. Once this has finished it will say Data wipe complete, and you'll be able to select the Reboot system option.Your device will now go through its power up sequence and when it has finished you'll be presented with a clean operating system into which you'll need to enter your various account details and being reinstalling your apps.
Hopefully now, any problems you were experiencing will have disappeared. Just don't go downloading any suspicious apps from the app store and you should be fine.
By Martyn Casserly | PC Advisor | 22 December 14
Sound of Silence
The Sound of Silence is a song by American music duo Simon & Garfun from their debut studio album, Wednesday Morning, 3 AM (1964). The song was written by Paul Simon over the period of several months between 1963–1964. A studio audition led to the duo signing a record deal with Columbia Records, and the song was recorded in March 1964 at Columbia Studios in New York City.
This is very nice song and the version i had chose to share with you all is from Ania that used to be a sound track in one of the Chinese movie named Unbeatable.
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