Wednesday, 21 May 2014

Spanish moto maker Bultaco jolts back to life with the all-electric Rapitan

One of the most beloved of the long-defunct Euro bike makers, Bultaco, appears to be on the brink of a comeback. And instead of rehashing a classic design filled with modern tech, the reborn concern has decided to skip the retro rage and dive right into fully electric motoring. 

The new bike, a fully modern naked -style machine called the Rapitán, sports 54 ponies from a brushless, air-cooled electric motor and 92 pound-feet of torque, which puts it on a performance par with ebike maker Brammo's popular Empulse. Top speed is pegged at 90 mph with about an 80 mile range. Battery specifics, save for the fact it's of the Lithium-Ion variety, were not detailed in a company press release. The transmission has just one forward gear, an approach becoming more common in electric bikes. 

A Sport version of the bike is said to be in the pipeline as well and photos of that model show it with wirespoke wheels, hidden headlights and a more supermoto stance. It should be an eyeful in motion as the wheels also sport alternating yellow-black sections on the rims. A small LCD panel rides where the fuel filler would be located. Charging for both bikes is controlled onboard.

Other features include storage for a helmet where the gas tank would be, a tubular steel frame a la Ducati, what appears to be belt drive, and decidedly aggressive urban-naked styling – in yellow. The front fork appears to be unconventional, with what resembles a linkage system and single shock similar to BMW's Telelever system. Interestingly, Bultaco says the bike's power system incorporates large capacitors as well as battery storage. Capacitor discharge would give the bike a boost off the line and could be quickly "refueled" by regenerative braking through the back wheel, saving precious battery capacity for extending cruising range.

Bultaco also suggests the rear regenerative brake has a built-in anti-lock braking feature that maximizes energy recapture, a feature still being kicked around by several other bike makers. A large single disc brake slows the front wheel on both models.

The new 'Taco has grown out of work by Spanish firm LGN Tech Design SL, which has experience in racing electric motorcycles and now appears to be caretaker of the storied brand. Bultaco was most famous in the past for their nimble and innovative dirtbikes of the 1960s and 1970s, although they were also involved in road racing and produced capable mass-market road bikes. The doors shut on the factory in 1983, the same year Triumph drew its last breath, but the brand has maintained a solid following to this day.

Unlike the "new" Triumph, which is now a powerful force in the industry with a slate of technically cutting-edge bikes along with some capable tribute-to-the-past machines, there are exactly zero classic styling cues in the new Bultaco save an updated logo and color choice. Clearly, the company has its eye on the future.

The Bultaco press release indicates the bikes could be ready this year with later models featuring an "in-house" propulsion system and more models coming down the road, perhaps as soon as next year.

Welcome back, Bultaco, and thumbs up!

(Images © Bultaco Motorcycles)

____________________________________



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EE Eagle come through

UK network EE has launched a tablet named the Eagle, which costs £200 and comes with a 4G LTE connection. Its announcement comes shortly after the network unveiled the Kestrel smartphone, notable for being its cheapest 4G LTE phone available, proving EE's keen to build up a catalog of competitively priced hardware supplying its high-speed data connection.



Details on the EE Eagle are only just coming through. We know it has an 8-inch screen, which fits in with the current trend, but we're not sure about the resolution. However, we do know it's based on the Huawei MediaPad M1, so we can make some educated guesses. The resolution on the Huawei-branded device is 1280 x 800 pixels, and it's powered by a quad-core, 1.6GHz Kirin chip of the manufacturer's own design.



EE has confirmed to Pocket-Lint the Eagle tablet comes with 16GB of onboard storage memory, and there's a MicroSD card slot to boost this by a further 32GB. A 5-megapixel camera is on the back of the tablet, and if it follows the M1's spec sheet, the front facing camera will have a single megapixel. Sadly, the EE Eagle will be using Android Jelly Bean as its operating system, which puts it well behind the latest devices from other manufacturers.



EE will be hoping the promise of 4G LTE connectivity will see people flock to the Eagle. The tablet will be sold on a contract, or as a Pay As You Go device. The former option has the tablet priced at £50 ($85), on a £15 ($25) per month contract with 2GB of data included, while the latter PAYG option will mean spending £200 ($337) up front.



In the UK, EE's Eagle will be pitted against not only the stars from Amazon, Samsung, and Apple, but also from the likes of Tesco. The supermarket recently confirmed a sequel to the Hudl tablet will be out later in the year, and it'll be interesting to see how it compares to EE's offering.



The EE Eagle will land on May 28.

____________________________________



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Surface Mini: Launch plans cancelled, may not be revealed until 2015 (Updated)

Microsoft's Surface tablets haven't been the biggest hits, but that's not going to stop the company from releasing new variations to try and win over those cautious consumers. Rumors continue to gather about a new series of Surface tablets, all with screen sizes below 8.5 inches. No official announcement has been made yet, so we've collected everything we've heard into a handy roundup.

Updated on 05-21-14 by Andy: The Surface Mini was apparently cancelled just before Microsoft's May 20 event, making way instead for the Surface Pro 3.

Microsoft's 'small' gathering was meant ironically

Microsoft called an event for May 20 in New York, where it was initially believed it would announce the Surface Mini. The invitation said the event would be a "small" gathering concentrating on the Surface, but it looks like Microsoft was being ironic, because the one-and-only star of the show was the 12-inch Surface Pro 3. Was it irony, or does the Surface Mini still not meet Microsoft's standards?

Rumors about the Surface Pro 3 had started to appear prior to the event, and a last-minute report published by ComputerWorld.com, citing anonymous sources, correctly stated Microsoft wouldn't announce the Surface Mini during the event. 

Does this doesn't mean the Surface Mini will never launch? A report published by Bloomberg says Microsoft cancelled plans to reveal the tablet at the last minute, and references to Qualcomm's involvement, along with other Surface Mini promo material, was quickly removed from the event venue. Apparently, the decision to cancel the Mini came from CEO Satya Nadella, and former Nokia CEO Stephen Elop. An analyst told the site the tablet may still launch, but it's unlikely to do so until 2015.

Surface Mini rumors have spread for years

The first Surface Mini reports started appearing even before the first Surface tablets were officially announced, following a leaked document showing the possible spec for a 7-inch tablet. It wasn't until April 2013 that we heard more, when The Wall Street Journal mentioned that "a new lineup of Surface tablets, including a 7-inch version," would go into production by the end of the year. The 7-inch tablet was apparently a response to the popularity of the Nexus 7, the Kindle Fire, and all the many other examples available at the time.

Since then, 7-inch tablets have fallen from grace in favor of models around 8 inches in size, such as the iPad Mini and the LG G Pad. Noted Microsoft watcher Paul Thurrott tweeted soon after The Wall Street Journal article was published that he was told the "next Surface is an 8-inch model, not 7 inches." In September 2013, Mary Jo Foley, writing for ZDNet, said sources had informed her the launch of the Mini range had been delayed until spring 2014. One possible reason: Microsoft wanted to launch the tablets with a Windows 8.1 update, referred to as Spring 2014 GDR.

In light of the May 20 event, it now looks like the Surface Mini has been delayed again, potentially until 2015, during which time it'll need a spec overhaul if it's to have any kind of impact in the future.

New screen size for Surface, and 4G LTE connectivity

Around the same time, analysts at IHS iSuppli said Microsoft was working on a tablet using Windows RT, and fitted with a 7.5-inch touchscreen. The resolution was listed as an unusual 1,400 × 1,050 pixels, with a 4:3 aspect ratio (like an iPad). This is unusual because existing Surface tablets have a 16:9 ratio. Speaking at a Surface press event last October, Microsoft's Panos Panay said the company was working on "Multiple aspect ratios and sizes and awesome things to come from Surface."

The Surface Pro 3 shuns the traditional 16:9 aspect ratio, choosing instead a paper-like 3:2 ratio.

In addition to altering the screen ratio, the Surface Mini may be separated from some of its larger brethren by having 3G and 4G LTE connectivity. This would follow the quiet introduction of a 4G LTE versions of the Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 tablets in March.

Rumors spread in September 2013 suggested the tablet would enter production sometime between January and March 2014. The same rumor attached an approximate $450 price tag to the Mini, making it less than the 16GB iPad Mini Retina with 4G.

Surface Mini could have an 8.5-inch screen

Moving into 2014, in January a tweet from @MSFTnerd's account said the Surface Mini would be announced before Microsoft revealed the third generation of full-size Surface tablets. The Surface 2 models will be a year old at the end of September, so Microsoft has plenty of time to meet this timeframe.

At the end of February, reports quoting sources inside the Taiwanese supply chain began appearing, reiterating much of what we'd heard before, by saying Microsoft was planning a range of new mobile devices with screen sizes below 8.5 inches. Apparently Microsoft may be considering a launch at the Computex trade show scheduled for June.

A new set of possible specifications also popped up. The odd resolution heard in previous rumors was replaced by a more standard 1080p pixel count, and instead of Windows RT, the Mini may run the full version of Windows 8.1, complete with the first major software update installed.

Will it use an Intel, or a Qualcomm chip?

An Intel Bay Trail processor was also mentioned in the report, backing up the claim it'll run the full version of the operating system, but not everyone is convinced. A Bloomberg report at the beginning of May said Microsoft had decided to use a Qualcomm processor inside the Surface Mini and end its partnership with Nvidia. If a Qualcomm chip is present, then the Mini will run Windows RT. Nokia chose a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 chip to power the Lumia 2520 tablet, one of only a few other Windows RT tablets on sale.

An industry source told CNet Microsoft "definitely [has] a new Intel-based Surface," to reveal, but rather than the Mini, it could be a reference to the Surface Pro 3. There is another possibility, that the Intel-based tablet is a Surface Mini Pro running full Windows 8.1, but there has been no evidence to show Microsoft is working on such a device.

Kinect-style gesture controls?

Another difference between the Mini and other Surface tablets could be Kinect-style gesture controls with added face recognition. A report published in China late last year put the idea forward, but didn't go into much detail. All we learned was that the tablet would track hand movements and work better than Samsung's Air Gesture system. Windows supports Kinect, and an updated version was demonstrated during the Build 2014 developer conference, so it's clear Microsoft is keen to spread this feature across multiple devices.

There has certainly been plenty of talk about a mini version of the Surface tablet, making it hard to dismiss all of it as pure speculation. The market is shifting more toward the 8-inch tablet size at the moment too, leaving a large gap in Microsoft's product range. The need to fill it will only become more urgent as 2014 continues.

We'll continue tracking the rumors and gossip surrounding the Surface Mini, and will update this article accordingly when new information emerges.

Article updates:

Updated on 05-20-14 by Andy: Last-minute rumors say the Surface Mini won't launch during Microsoft's May 20 event.

Updated on 05-19-14 by Andy: Added in some new rumors surrounding Microsoft's possible choice of processor for the Surface Mini, plus links to the discussion about the Surface Pro 3, rumored to also appear during the May 20 event.

____________________________________



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2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon revealed

Following the launch of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, the anticipated wagon version (or estate, as it's known in its European home market) has been cast onto the virtual auto-show stage that is the Internet.



The 2015 C-Class Estate shares most of its sheet metal with the rather handsome C-Class sedan, and while not the most eye-arresting design around, it's certainly better looking than most crossovers.



This more-utilitarian C-Class will also feature the same long list of luxury and convenience items as the rest of the C-Class lineup, which includes optional air suspension, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera on U.S.-spec models.



The wagon actually rides on a stretched version of the Mercedes MRA platform that's also used for the long-wheelbase C-Class sold in China. A wide array of power trains is expected for the global market, including four- and six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines and a hybrid.



Hopefully Mercedes will do the right thing and build a C63 AMG wagon as well.



However, it's unclear if any C-Class Estate models will be imported to the U.S. Mercedes hasn't announced any plans to bring it here and, considering how slow station wagon sales are in this crossover-happy country, it wouldn't be surprising if the company opted not to.



That's too bad, really. The C-Class would make an excellent rival for the BMW 3 Series Sport Wagon and Audi A4 Allroad. The potential sales may not be worth it, but surely the bragging rights are?

____________________________________



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Surface Mini: Launch plans cancelled, may not be revealed until 2015 (Updated)

Microsoft's Surface tablets haven't been the biggest hits, but that's not going to stop the company from releasing new variations to try and win over those cautious consumers. Rumors continue to gather about a new series of Surface tablets, all with screen sizes below 8.5 inches. No official announcement has been made yet, so we've collected everything we've heard into a handy roundup.

Updated on 05-21-14 by Andy: The Surface Mini was apparently cancelled just before Microsoft's May 20 event, making way instead for the Surface Pro 3.

Microsoft's 'small' gathering was meant ironically

Microsoft called an event for May 20 in New York, where it was initially believed it would announce the Surface Mini. The invitation said the event would be a "small" gathering concentrating on the Surface, but it looks like Microsoft was being ironic, because the one-and-only star of the show was the 12-inch Surface Pro 3. Was it irony, or does the Surface Mini still not meet Microsoft's standards?

Rumors about the Surface Pro 3 had started to appear prior to the event, and a last-minute report published by ComputerWorld.com, citing anonymous sources, correctly stated Microsoft wouldn't announce the Surface Mini during the event. 

Does this doesn't mean the Surface Mini will never launch? A report published by Bloomberg says Microsoft cancelled plans to reveal the tablet at the last minute, and references to Qualcomm's involvement, along with other Surface Mini promo material, was quickly removed from the event venue. Apparently, the decision to cancel the Mini came from CEO Satya Nadella, and former Nokia CEO Stephen Elop. An analyst told the site the tablet may still launch, but it's unlikely to do so until 2015.

Surface Mini rumors have spread for years

The first Surface Mini reports started appearing even before the first Surface tablets were officially announced, following a leaked document showing the possible spec for a 7-inch tablet. It wasn't until April 2013 that we heard more, when The Wall Street Journal mentioned that "a new lineup of Surface tablets, including a 7-inch version," would go into production by the end of the year. The 7-inch tablet was apparently a response to the popularity of the Nexus 7, the Kindle Fire, and all the many other examples available at the time.

Since then, 7-inch tablets have fallen from grace in favor of models around 8 inches in size, such as the iPad Mini and the LG G Pad. Noted Microsoft watcher Paul Thurrott tweeted soon after The Wall Street Journal article was published that he was told the "next Surface is an 8-inch model, not 7 inches." In September 2013, Mary Jo Foley, writing for ZDNet, said sources had informed her the launch of the Mini range had been delayed until spring 2014. One possible reason: Microsoft wanted to launch the tablets with a Windows 8.1 update, referred to as Spring 2014 GDR.

In light of the May 20 event, it now looks like the Surface Mini has been delayed again, potentially until 2015, during which time it'll need a spec overhaul if it's to have any kind of impact in the future.

New screen size for Surface, and 4G LTE connectivity

Around the same time, analysts at IHS iSuppli said Microsoft was working on a tablet using Windows RT, and fitted with a 7.5-inch touchscreen. The resolution was listed as an unusual 1,400 × 1,050 pixels, with a 4:3 aspect ratio (like an iPad). This is unusual because existing Surface tablets have a 16:9 ratio. Speaking at a Surface press event last October, Microsoft's Panos Panay said the company was working on "Multiple aspect ratios and sizes and awesome things to come from Surface."

The Surface Pro 3 shuns the traditional 16:9 aspect ratio, choosing instead a paper-like 3:2 ratio.

In addition to altering the screen ratio, the Surface Mini may be separated from some of its larger brethren by having 3G and 4G LTE connectivity. This would follow the quiet introduction of a 4G LTE versions of the Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 tablets in March.

Rumors spread in September 2013 suggested the tablet would enter production sometime between January and March 2014. The same rumor attached an approximate $450 price tag to the Mini, making it less than the 16GB iPad Mini Retina with 4G.

Surface Mini could have an 8.5-inch screen

Moving into 2014, in January a tweet from @MSFTnerd's account said the Surface Mini would be announced before Microsoft revealed the third generation of full-size Surface tablets. The Surface 2 models will be a year old at the end of September, so Microsoft has plenty of time to meet this timeframe.

At the end of February, reports quoting sources inside the Taiwanese supply chain began appearing, reiterating much of what we'd heard before, by saying Microsoft was planning a range of new mobile devices with screen sizes below 8.5 inches. Apparently Microsoft may be considering a launch at the Computex trade show scheduled for June.

A new set of possible specifications also popped up. The odd resolution heard in previous rumors was replaced by a more standard 1080p pixel count, and instead of Windows RT, the Mini may run the full version of Windows 8.1, complete with the first major software update installed.

Will it use an Intel, or a Qualcomm chip?

An Intel Bay Trail processor was also mentioned in the report, backing up the claim it'll run the full version of the operating system, but not everyone is convinced. A Bloomberg report at the beginning of May said Microsoft had decided to use a Qualcomm processor inside the Surface Mini and end its partnership with Nvidia. If a Qualcomm chip is present, then the Mini will run Windows RT. Nokia chose a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 chip to power the Lumia 2520 tablet, one of only a few other Windows RT tablets on sale.

An industry source told CNet Microsoft "definitely [has] a new Intel-based Surface," to reveal, but rather than the Mini, it could be a reference to the Surface Pro 3. There is another possibility, that the Intel-based tablet is a Surface Mini Pro running full Windows 8.1, but there has been no evidence to show Microsoft is working on such a device.

Kinect-style gesture controls?

Another difference between the Mini and other Surface tablets could be Kinect-style gesture controls with added face recognition. A report published in China late last year put the idea forward, but didn't go into much detail. All we learned was that the tablet would track hand movements and work better than Samsung's Air Gesture system. Windows supports Kinect, and an updated version was demonstrated during the Build 2014 developer conference, so it's clear Microsoft is keen to spread this feature across multiple devices.

There has certainly been plenty of talk about a mini version of the Surface tablet, making it hard to dismiss all of it as pure speculation. The market is shifting more toward the 8-inch tablet size at the moment too, leaving a large gap in Microsoft's product range. The need to fill it will only become more urgent as 2014 continues.

We'll continue tracking the rumors and gossip surrounding the Surface Mini, and will update this article accordingly when new information emerges.

Article updates:

Updated on 05-20-14 by Andy: Last-minute rumors say the Surface Mini won't launch during Microsoft's May 20 event.

Updated on 05-19-14 by Andy: Added in some new rumors surrounding Microsoft's possible choice of processor for the Surface Mini, plus links to the discussion about the Surface Pro 3, rumored to also appear during the May 20 event.
____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

Spanish moto maker Bultaco jolts back to life with the all-electric Rapitan

One of the most beloved of the long-defunct Euro bike makers, Bultaco, appears to be on the brink of a comeback. And instead of rehashing a classic design filled with modern tech, the reborn concern has decided to skip the retro rage and dive right into fully electric motoring. 

The new bike, a fully modern naked -style machine called the Rapitán, sports 54 ponies from a brushless, air-cooled electric motor and 92 pound-feet of torque, which puts it on a performance par with ebike maker Brammo's popular Empulse. Top speed is pegged at 90 mph with about an 80 mile range. Battery specifics, save for the fact it's of the Lithium-Ion variety, were not detailed in a company press release. The transmission has just one forward gear, an approach becoming more common in electric bikes. 

A Sport version of the bike is said to be in the pipeline as well and photos of that model show it with wirespoke wheels, hidden headlights and a more supermoto stance. It should be an eyeful in motion as the wheels also sport alternating yellow-black sections on the rims. A small LCD panel rides where the fuel filler would be located. Charging for both bikes is controlled onboard.

Other features include storage for a helmet where the gas tank would be, a tubular steel frame a la Ducati, what appears to be belt drive, and decidedly aggressive urban-naked styling – in yellow. The front fork appears to be unconventional, with what resembles a linkage system and single shock similar to BMW's Telelever system. Interestingly, Bultaco says the bike's power system incorporates large capacitors as well as battery storage. Capacitor discharge would give the bike a boost off the line and could be quickly "refueled" by regenerative braking through the back wheel, saving precious battery capacity for extending cruising range.

Bultaco also suggests the rear regenerative brake has a built-in anti-lock braking feature that maximizes energy recapture, a feature still being kicked around by several other bike makers. A large single disc brake slows the front wheel on both models.

The new 'Taco has grown out of work by Spanish firm LGN Tech Design SL, which has experience in racing electric motorcycles and now appears to be caretaker of the storied brand. Bultaco was most famous in the past for their nimble and innovative dirtbikes of the 1960s and 1970s, although they were also involved in road racing and produced capable mass-market road bikes. The doors shut on the factory in 1983, the same year Triumph drew its last breath, but the brand has maintained a solid following to this day.

Unlike the "new" Triumph, which is now a powerful force in the industry with a slate of technically cutting-edge bikes along with some capable tribute-to-the-past machines, there are exactly zero classic styling cues in the new Bultaco save an updated logo and color choice. Clearly, the company has its eye on the future.

The Bultaco press release indicates the bikes could be ready this year with later models featuring an "in-house" propulsion system and more models coming down the road, perhaps as soon as next year.

Welcome back, Bultaco, and thumbs up!

(Images © Bultaco Motorcycles)
____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon revealed

Following the launch of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan, the anticipated wagon version (or estate, as it's known in its European home market) has been cast onto the virtual auto-show stage that is the Internet.

The 2015 C-Class Estate shares most of its sheet metal with the rather handsome C-Class sedan, and while not the most eye-arresting design around, it's certainly better looking than most crossovers.

This more-utilitarian C-Class will also feature the same long list of luxury and convenience items as the rest of the C-Class lineup, which includes optional air suspension, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera on U.S.-spec models.

The wagon actually rides on a stretched version of the Mercedes MRA platform that's also used for the long-wheelbase C-Class sold in China. A wide array of power trains is expected for the global market, including four- and six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines and a hybrid.

Hopefully Mercedes will do the right thing and build a C63 AMG wagon as well.

However, it's unclear if any C-Class Estate models will be imported to the U.S. Mercedes hasn't announced any plans to bring it here and, considering how slow station wagon sales are in this crossover-happy country, it wouldn't be surprising if the company opted not to.

That's too bad, really. The C-Class would make an excellent rival for the BMW 3 Series Sport Wagon and Audi A4 Allroad. The potential sales may not be worth it, but surely the bragging rights are?
____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

EE Eagle come through

UK network EE has launched a tablet named the Eagle, which costs £200 and comes with a 4G LTE connection. Its announcement comes shortly after the network unveiled the Kestrel smartphone, notable for being its cheapest 4G LTE phone available, proving EE's keen to build up a catalog of competitively priced hardware supplying its high-speed data connection.

Details on the EE Eagle are only just coming through. We know it has an 8-inch screen, which fits in with the current trend, but we're not sure about the resolution. However, we do know it's based on the Huawei MediaPad M1, so we can make some educated guesses. The resolution on the Huawei-branded device is 1280 x 800 pixels, and it's powered by a quad-core, 1.6GHz Kirin chip of the manufacturer's own design.

EE has confirmed to Pocket-Lint the Eagle tablet comes with 16GB of onboard storage memory, and there's a MicroSD card slot to boost this by a further 32GB. A 5-megapixel camera is on the back of the tablet, and if it follows the M1's spec sheet, the front facing camera will have a single megapixel. Sadly, the EE Eagle will be using Android Jelly Bean as its operating system, which puts it well behind the latest devices from other manufacturers.

EE will be hoping the promise of 4G LTE connectivity will see people flock to the Eagle. The tablet will be sold on a contract, or as a Pay As You Go device. The former option has the tablet priced at £50 ($85), on a £15 ($25) per month contract with 2GB of data included, while the latter PAYG option will mean spending £200 ($337) up front.

In the UK, EE's Eagle will be pitted against not only the stars from Amazon, Samsung, and Apple, but also from the likes of Tesco. The supermarket recently confirmed a sequel to the Hudl tablet will be out later in the year, and it'll be interesting to see how it compares to EE's offering.

The EE Eagle will land on May 28.
____________________________________

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Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

Saab production stops as NEVS encounters financial trouble

The Saab story really is turning into a sob story.



The quirky Swedish carmaker was cast off during General Motors' bankruptcy crisis, only to collapse under the stewardship of Dutch carmaker Spyker.



The remains of Saab were then purchased by an Asian investor group that created National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), which restarted production at the company's main plant in Trollhattan late last year. All is well, yes?



Nope. NEVS announced that it is reducing its workforce and temporarily stopping production of the 9-3, which was trickling along at just six units per day. Autoblog reports that the production stop will last four weeks.



In a press release, the company said it was experiencing cash-flow problems due to the abdication of shareholder Qingbo Investment Co. Ltd.



National Modern Energy Holdings Ltd., NEVS' main owner, has decided to become the sole financier of the company, but it hasn't been able to come up with cash to cover operations quickly enough.



However, it's not all bad news. NEVS said it has signed a "frame agreement" with a major carmaker to further development of the Phoenix platform – which was supposed to form the basis of Saab's first post-GM models before the company imploded.



NEVS will probably need help from a larger partner to keep development costs in check. It worked pretty well for Subaru and Toyota (see BRZ/FR-S), although Saab's zombified nature and NEVS' ambitious plan to build electric cars may make this case a bit more complicated.



So Saab isn't dead yet, but it's not showing much life either.

____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

Saab production stops as NEVS encounters financial trouble

The Saab story really is turning into a sob story.

The quirky Swedish carmaker was cast off during General Motors' bankruptcy crisis, only to collapse under the stewardship of Dutch carmaker Spyker.

The remains of Saab were then purchased by an Asian investor group that created National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), which restarted production at the company's main plant in Trollhattan late last year. All is well, yes?

Nope. NEVS announced that it is reducing its workforce and temporarily stopping production of the 9-3, which was trickling along at just six units per day. Autoblog reports that the production stop will last four weeks.

In a press release, the company said it was experiencing cash-flow problems due to the abdication of shareholder Qingbo Investment Co. Ltd.

National Modern Energy Holdings Ltd., NEVS' main owner, has decided to become the sole financier of the company, but it hasn't been able to come up with cash to cover operations quickly enough.

However, it's not all bad news. NEVS said it has signed a "frame agreement" with a major carmaker to further development of the Phoenix platform – which was supposed to form the basis of Saab's first post-GM models before the company imploded.

NEVS will probably need help from a larger partner to keep development costs in check. It worked pretty well for Subaru and Toyota (see BRZ/FR-S), although Saab's zombified nature and NEVS' ambitious plan to build electric cars may make this case a bit more complicated.

So Saab isn't dead yet, but it's not showing much life either.
____________________________________

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Oh. Heaven does have a sound. It’s the V8 howl of the Mercedes-AMG GT

Since Mercedes-Benz teased its forthcoming sports car, the AMG GT, earlier this year with images of its supple, red-accented interior, we've been waiting with bated breath for snapshots of the whole thing.



Sadly, today is not that day.



Instead, Mercedes has teased not the car's body, which, according to a Top Gear interview with Gordon Wagener, Mercedes' chief designer, "will be the most beautiful car my team and me have ever designed," but rather its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine howl.







That's not the only mightily boastful statement the German brand is making about its forthcoming Porsche-punching sports car; in the video, as the engine roars, Mercedes runs copy saying, "This is what you get when a company unleashes its creative and engineering forces to combine the absolute best of all it has ever done into a single, monumental, unwavering engineering achievement."











Boy, this had better be a good car, because, if it's not, there are going to be some seriously embarrassed Germans moping around Stuttgart.



Mercedes-AMG has seriously caught our attention, not with its braggadocio but rather with the roar of that mighty V8. We'll be sure to keep up on this story, so be sure to check back soon for more updates.

____________________________________



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Nigerians Artiste dominate The AFRIMMA Awards 2014 Full Nominees Listed

"The long awaited nomination list and voting has been released for AFRIMMA. 

AFRIMMA is a highly anticipated award show celebrating the beauty of African music and artistry.

The award show will take place Saturday, July 26, 2014 in Dallas, Texas at the Eisemann Center.

This award show will honor some of the world's top African celebrity musical artists, producers, dj's, and cultural influencers. The star studded event will attract guests from various cities throughout the United States as well as guests and honorees from various African Countries.

This event will be the biggest award show in Diaspora celebrating Africa and its artists.

African Muzik Magazine & AFRIMMA's primary purpose is to cross boundaries with music. The sound of Africa is diverse, and has garnered an international appeal.

This event serves as an opportunity for us to celebrate the top African Acts and the contributions they have made in relation to the African culture and sound through their music. 

AFRIMMA will be hosted by Africa's #1 Comedian, Basket Mouth and Nollywood / Ghollywood sensation, Juliet Ibrahim
.
Confirmed Guests: 2Face, Diamond Platnumz, Stanley Enow, Davido, Flavour, Kcee, Navio, TooFan, Wyre, Timaya, Les Nubians, Fally Ipupa, Bracket, Iyanya, Miriam Chemmoss,, DJ Arafat , J. Martins and many more.
There will also be live performances by Grammy Award Winner Tpain, Jamaican Reggae super star DeMarco and many more.  

To view the list of nominees and vote for your favorite artists please visit www.afrimma.com."

Best Male (West Africa)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Iyanya (Nigeria)
Sarkodie (Ghana)
Dj Arafat (Ivory Coast)
Davido (Nigeria)
Shatta Wale (Ghana)
Flavour Nabania (Nigeria)

Best Female (West Africa)
Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
Chidimma(Nigeria)
Viviane Chidid (Senegal)
Teeyah (Ivory Coast)
Sessima (Benin)
Efya (Ghana)

Best Male (East Africa)

Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
Ben Pol (Tanzania)
Bebe Cool (Uganda)
Wyre (Kenya)
Navio (Uganda)
Jackie Gosee (Ethiopia)

Best Female (East Africa)
Rema (Uganda)
Aster Aweke (Ethiopia)
Avril (Kenya)
Lady Jaydee (Tanzania)
Victoria Kimani (Kenya)
Irene Ntale (Uganda)

Best Male (Central Africa)
Fally Ipupa (DR Congo)
Stanley Enow (Cameroon)
Ferre Gola (Congo)
Privato "Lill'P" Niyintunze (Burundi)
Anselmo Ralph (Angola)
Sine (Cameroon)

Best Female (Central Africa)
Arielle T (Gabon)
Suzanna Lubrano (Cape Verde)
Gasha (Cameroon)
Lady Ponce ( Cameroon)
Ceuzeny (Cape Verde)
Ary (Angola)

Best Male (Southern Africa)
Aka (South Africa)
Zeus (Botswana)
Donald (South Africa)
Slap Dee (Zambia)
Khuli Chana (South Africa)
Stunner (Zimbabwe)
Tha Dogg (Namibia)

Best Female (Southern Africa)
Lira (South Africa)
Toya De Lazy (South Africa)
Judy (Zambia)
Zahara (South Africa)
Kearoma Rantao (Botswana)
Lizha James (Mozambique)

Best Male (Diaspora)
Lira (South Africa)
Toya De Lazy (South Africa)
Judy (Zambia)
Zahara (South Africa)
Kearoma Rantao (Botswana)
Lizha James (Mozambique)

Best Female (Diaspora)
Miriam Chemmoss (Kenya)
Mayra Andrade (Cape Verde)
Bumi Thomas (Nigeria)
STL (Kenya)
Les Nubians(Cameroun)
Nneka (Nigeria)
Dencia (Cameroon)

Best African Group
Psquare (Nigeria)
Mafikizolo (South Africa)
R2bee's (Ghana)
Bracket (Nigeria)
Radio and Weasel (Uganda)
Toofan (Togo)
Sauti Sol (Kenya)

Best Dancehall Artiste
amini (Ghana)
Wyre (Kenya)
Timaya (Nigeria)
MC Norman (Uganda)
Dr. Jose Chameleon (Uganda)
Shatta Wale (Ghana)

Best Gospel Artiste
Nikki Laoye (Nigeria)
Sonnie Badu (Ghana)
Icha kavons (Congo)
Bahati (Kenya)
Ntokozo Mbambo (South Africa)
Emmy Kosgei (Kenya)
Uche Agu (Nigeria)


Best Dance In A Video
Iyanya – Lekwa Ukwu
Kcee – Limpopo
Guru – Alkayida
Davido – Skelewu
P-Square – Personally


Best Traditional Artiste
Flavour (Nigeria)
Kwabena Kwabena (Ghana)
Bassekou Kouyate (Mali)
Sayicology (South Africa)
Mrisho Topo (Tanzania)
Stanlux (Togo)
Tunakie (Namibia)


Best Newcomer
Stanley Enow (Cameroon)
Nakhane Toure (South Africa)
Joey B (Ghana)
Phyno (Nigeria)
Eddy Kenzo (Uganda)
Sage (Kenya)

Best Video Director
Clarence Peters (Nigeria)
Ogopa DJ's (Kenya)
Patrick Elis (Nigeria)
Klasszik & JKP STUDIO (Angola)
Pharoah Films (Ghana)
Godfather (South Africa)


Best African DJ (USA)
DJ Shinski (Kenya)
DJ Josh (Kenya)
DJ Fully Focus (Kenya)
DJ Amin (Ethiopia)
DJ Dee Money (NG/US)
DJ Ronnie (GH/US)
Dj Ecool (Nigeria)

Best DJ Africa
Dj Jimmy Jatt (Nigeria)
Dj Exclusive (Nigeria)
Dj Joe Mfalme (Kenya)
Dj Cndo (South Africa)
Dj Black (Ghana)
Dj Creme de la Creme (Kenya)
DJ Shiru (Uganda)

Best Video of the Year
Psquare – Personally
Sarkodie – Illuminati
Mafikizolo ft Uhuru – Khona
Diamond Platnumz – Number One
Flavour – Ada Ada
Anselmo Ralph – Unica Mulher

Music Producer of the Year
Shizzi (Nigeria)
Killbeatz (Ghana)
Dj Oskido (South Africa)
Nash Wonder (Uganda)
Sheddy Clever (Tanzania)
Ogopa (Kenya)
Don Jazzy (Nigeria)

Best Rap Act
Sarkodie (Ghana)
AKA (South Africa)
Olamide (Nigeria)
Phyno (Nigeria)
Octopizzo (Kenya)
M.anifest (Ghana)
Zeus (Botswana)

Best Collaboration
2face ft Tpain
Diamondz ft Davido – Number One Remix
Mafikizolo ft Uhuru – Khona
Dr Sid ft Don Jazzy, Phyno, Wizkid – Surulere Remix
Amani ft Radio and Weasel – 'Kiboko Changu' (Kenya/Uganda)
Jmartins ft DJ Arafat – Touching body
R2bess and Wizkid – Slow down

Best Dance Group
CEO Dancers
Unique Silver Dancers
Afro Mask
Imagineto Dance Company
D3 Dancers

Song of the Year
Davido – Skelewu (Nigeria)
Mafikizolo feat Uhuru – Khona (South Africa)
KCee – Limpopo (Nigeria)
P Square – Personally (Nigeria)
Yuri Da Cunha – Atchu Tchu Tcha (Angola)
Fuse ODG feat Wyclef – Antenna Remix (Ghana)
L.A.X feat Wizkid – Caro (Nigeria)
Diamond feat Davido – Number One Remix (Tanzania)

Artiste of the Year
Flavour (Nigeria)
Davido (Nigeria)
Diamond (Tanzania)
Sarkodie (Ghana)
Mafikizolo (South Africa)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Anselmo Ralph – A Dor do Cupido (Angola)
Jaguar (Kenya)

To vote for your favourite in each category, head to AFRIMMA.COM

____________________________________



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Android 4.4 KitKat: Sony’s update for the Xperia Z and Xperia Tablet Z is ready to go (Updated)

Google announced Android 4.4 KitKat in late 2013, and while we know it made its debut on the Nexus 5, its arrival on other smartphones is as always, up in the air. Information has been coming through from various sources since its release, so we've combined all the official announcements, along with any less formal news we've heard, to make sure you know when Android 4.4 KitKat is headed to your device.

Updated on 05-21-2014 by Andy Boxall: Sony has confirmed Android 4.4 is ready for the Xperia Z and several of its spin-off phones, plus the Xperia Tablet Z.

Sony to update modern Xperia hardware

Sony first talked about its plans for Android 4.4 in November last year, and while it was all good news, the wait for any further information has been a long one. Finally, on March 19 2014, Sony published a blog post saying the update for the Xperia Z1, Xperia Z Ultra, and the Xperia Z1 Compact is ready to go.

Sony will add Android 4.4 KitKat to these phones, along with a few new features of its own. These include a new Status Bar and Quick Settings menu, a PS4-style UI with new live wallpaper, plus a wide selection of improvements spread across Sony's stock apps. No exact timeline is given, and the usual warning that these things vary by country and carrier is clearly stated, but it should be on its way soon.

Now its most recent phones have been updated, Sony has turned its attention to the Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia ZR, and the Xperia Tablet Z. According to a blog post, the Android 4.4 KitKat update for these devices is complete, and will be sent out to selected markets from May 21, with a wider release coming in the next few weeks. All the enhancements listed for the Xperia Z1 are included, along with new versions of Sony's Social Camera and Battery Stamina Mode apps, plus compatibility with the Smartband and Lifelog app.

Finally, the Xperia T2 Ultra, Xperia E1, and the Xperia M2 – including the dual-SIM variants – have all been added to Sony's list for a future Android 4.4 update, which is now expected sometime in July.

Samsung's KitKat updates are coming

Initially, Samsung kept quiet about its plans for 4.4 KitKat, having announced update schedules in the past, then been burned by missing self-imposed deadlines. Following early international tests of the new OS – specifically Galaxy Note 3 owners in Poland during January, and Korean Galaxy S4 phones in February – Samsung soon started sending out its Android 4.4 KitKat updates in America.

On February 13 2014, Sprint officially confirmed the arrival of an Android 4.4 update for the Galaxy S4, posting on its support webpage the new software was being released in stages, and a system prompt would appear once it was ready to download. It warned this may not show up for several days.

A week later, Samsung sent out a press release confirming 4.4 KitKat will soon be available for the following devices across all U.S. networks. These are the Galaxy Note 3 and the Galaxy Note 2, the Galaxy S4, S4 Mini, S4 Active and S4 Zoom, plus the Galaxy S3 and S3 Mini. The Galaxy Mega and Galaxy Light are also listed. Moving on to tablets, the Galaxy Note 8.0, Galaxy Tab 3, Galaxy Note 10.1, and finally, the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition will all be updated to version 4.4. Samsung says all carrier variants will get the update. The rollout began on February 18 and will continue for several months. 

AT&T has now confirmed Galaxy Note 3 devices connected to its networks will be receiving Android 4.4 KitKat from March 27. In a short blog post, the network provides an overview of the new features. KitKat will add the new-look user interface, the option to use Hangouts as the SMS app, wireless printing, better GPS performance, and enhanced audio controls. Additionally, the update will add music controls to the lock screen, and a quick access camera button too.

In addition, AT&T began to roll out Android 4.4.2 KitKat updates to Galaxy S4 Active owners last week. However, the carrier stopped delivering the over-the-air update, saying it is working with Samsung to bring some "potential improvements" to the update. There's speculation that some bugs in the firmware update reared their ugly heads, one of them being Wi-Fi connectivity issues. There's no indication as to when AT&T Galaxy S4 Active owners will be able to update to KitKat.

Reports gathered on April 21 that Korean Galaxy Note 3 Neo devices were being updated to Android 4.4, either over-the-air or through Samsung's Kies software. Additionally, the same update for the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition tablet has also been spotted, although in some smaller international markets. Both these point to a wider release in the near future.

Sure enough, a few days later, Verizon confirmed the Android 4.4 KitKat update was ready for the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition tablet. In addition to the latest version of the OS, the Note 10.1 also gains a full-screen viewing mode, a multi-user option, and faster multi-tasking. Several bugs have been fixed, and some performance enhancements have been made to S-Note. Verizon says the update is being pushed out in phases from around April 28.

Verizon also made available Android 4.4.2 KitKat for the Galaxy Note 3. Owners of the handset can download the update through Samsung Kies or the Verizon Software Assistant, with the update not yet available over-the-air.

If you own a Galaxy Note 2, here's some good news. Your Android 4.4.2 KitKat update appears to be ready, and is being sent out to international versions of the device right now. According to reports, French Note 2 phones are first on the list, with other countries to follow afterwards. It's an over-the-air update, so look out for a notification soon. Features are expected to be in-line with the Galaxy Note 3. 

Positive news for owners of slightly older Galaxy smartphones continued at the beginning of May, when Sprint announced it had an Android 4.4 update for the Galaxy S3 ready to be distributed. The support page doesn't provide any detail, saying only that it would be released on May 1.

However, for the international variant of the Galaxy S3 and S3 Mini 3G, they wont be so luck. In a statement sent to ZDNet, Samsung confirmed that KitKat will not make its way to the two handsets. Samsung blames the handsets' hardware limitations, with both devices having 1GB of RAM. KitKat was released for the Galaxy S3, but only for variants with 2GB of RAM.

As for the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Edition, a post on the official Android Google+ page confirmed the new version was sent out on November 26 2013.

LG sends out KitKat to the G Flex

LG already officially announced the G Flex update for Korea, and has now confirmed its arrival in America. In an April 29 press release, LG stated that G Flex phones on AT&T should already be receiving their update, while Sprint phones will start seeing it over the coming week. Those with their flexible phone connected to T-Mobile will have to wait a little longer, but Android 4.4 should arrive around mid-May. Included in the update is LG's new Knock Code feature, along with an overall performance upgrade, and tweaks to the way the phone uses battery power, which should result in longer periods between charges.

As LG is responsible for the Nexus 5, we'd been expecting to hear something official about Android 4.4 KitKat for the LG G2 quite quickly, but we were forced to be patient. On December 15 2013 we got our first piece of official news. LG published a short press release on its blog, saying the Android 4.4 KitKat update for the G2 was, "In progress," in Korea.

T-Mobile USA became the first network to offer an update to Android 4.4 KitKat for the LG G2, confirming on its official update page the rollout would begin on March 3. Owners should expect to find all the KitKat improvements, along with an auto-brightness option, and general user experience improvements.

Sprint also confirmed it has started sending out Android 4.4 KitKat for the LG G2 on March 31. The update contains the new software version, plus a bug fix for Next Radio. The network warns it's a staggered release, and not all phones will receive notification of the new software at the same time.

At the beginning of April, LG pushed another two Android 4.4 KitKat updates live in Korea, this time for the G Pad tablet, and the Vu 3 smartphone/tablet hybrid. Rumors have also emerged LG is working on Android 4.4 for the Optimus G, its 2012 flagship Android phone. The news comes from the same French network where the mostly accurate reports of the first LG software updates originated.

HTC updates continue with the Verizon HTC One Max

HTC talked about getting Android 4.4 on its devices almost immediately after the software was announced.

A tweet sent though the HTC USA Twitter account on November 13 2013 confirmed the update for the Google Play edition of the HTC One was with Google, and that it was responsible for pushing the update. A Google+ post from the official Android account ten days later confirmed the update was being sent out.

Subsequently, HTC also said Android 4.4 would be out for the Developer Edition and SIM-free HTC One before the end of November. It was right on the money too, as on November 29 it sent out another message saying Android 4.4 KitKat was out for unlocked One phones and the HTC One Developer Edition.

The official HTC USA Twitter account has informed us that HTC One smartphones connected to Sprint will be the first to receive an update to Android 4.4 KitKat. The new version began finding its way to Sprint devices on February 1 2014. Additionally, HTC confirmed Android 4.4 had reached the final "certification" stage with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

On February 6, HTC announced the Verizon update was ready to go, and added Sense 5.5 would also be included. Verizon followed this up with documentation detailing all the alterations. Android 4.4.2 and Sense 5.5 will add a new lock screen process, a redesigned music and gallery app, revised and more detailed location services, plus a Do Not Disturb mode. At the moment, the update is only for the HTC One, but the HTC One Max is set to follow soon. Also, Verizon is investigating an Android 4.4 update for the Droid DNA along with the Virgin Mobile Desire 601.

It has taken more than a month, but HTC has finally got the Android update for the Droid DNA ready to go. Announced by the company's executive product manager on Twitter, Android 4.4.2 accompanied by Sense 5.5 will start making its way to the phone on April 24. As always with these updates, it may not reach your phone on the first day, but sit tight, it'll get there eventually.

Verizon announced on April 8 the HTC One Max was the next in-line for an Android 4.4 KitKat update. All the usual KitKat treats are included, along with a variety of other improvements and bug fixes. Verizon's official documentation talks about a "master switch" and three new profiles for location settings, along with a battery usage indicator for each app using them. Other changes include the notification light now indicating missed calls, emails and pending messages. 

In November 2013, HTC UK announced plans to have Android 4.4 and HTC Sense 5.5 for the One smartphone ready for the end of January 2014. In mid-January, it reiterated the point, saying it was working with local networks to make this happen. However, a short time after the update began, HTC halted the rollout on March 3, after some users complained of rapid battery drain following installation of the new software. On March 18, reports gathered that HTC had restarted the update process. A tweaked version of Android 4.4.2 was being sent out to UK and European HTC One phones, with a fix for an unspecified Wi-Fi issue.

Motorola Moto X and Moto G top of its list

Motorola confirmed the Moto X would be getting Android 4.4 via its website dedicated to software updates. The first Moto X's to get a taste were those connected to Verizon, and Motorola started a staggered rollout on November 19 2013. 

On February 19 2014, Motorola added Moto X smartphones connected to US Cellular to the list. According to the official update page, Android 4.4.2, along with some bug fixes, has been approved for release and should be with owners soon.

Motorola has confirmed Moto X phones connected to AT&T should expect a 4.4.2 KitKat update very soon. The new software promises to fix a few software bugs, including those which may have affected battery life, and one which could have caused problems with international roaming. The main new feature is support for photo printing via Google Cloud Print and HP ePrinters. 

Verizon's Droid phones aren't being left out. In December 2013, via a tweet, the network announced it had started updating the Droid Ultra, Droid Mini, and Droid Maxx to Android 4.4 KitKat. It said the new version would be delivered in stages. You can find a few details on the update here.

Meanwhile, Verizon updated the support documents for both the Motorola Droid Razr HD and Razr M with new information about the updates and changes Android 4.4.2 KitKat will bring. The soak test for both devices has finished, so it seems as if the update will go live soon. Some users have reported the update is live via OTA, with David Schuster of Motorola saying the update should be available to all Razr HD users by week's end.

Motorola confirmed in a blog post that U.S. versions of the Moto G would receive Android 4.4 updates from December 19 2013, and not early 2014 as originally promised. It said phones purchased through Amazon and Motorola would be first, while Moto G phones bought from networks will follow soon. In the UK, a post on Motorola's customer support page listed the improvements Android 4.4 KitKat would bring to the Moto G, and confirmed the update was being sent out.

Google, its Nexus hardware, and Glass

Android 4.4 KitKat slightly deviated from the tradition of previous versions, which all debuted on Nexus hardware, by deciding to also hit the Verizon Moto X at around the same time. Google confirmed Android 4.4 KitKat would come to the Nexus 4 smartphone, plus the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 tablet. The Google Editions of the Galaxy S4 and the HTC One also received some chocolatey Android goodness.

As of November 12 2013, the Nexus 7 (both 2012 and 2013 models) and the Nexus 10 started getting the update, and although no official word came through, reports spread on November 20 that it starting to arrive on Nexus 4 smartphones too. Eagle-eyed Nexus fans will notice the Galaxy Nexus isn't included in the list, and sure enough, the two-year old phone won't be getting any more Google love.

Google has always said Android 4.4 KitKat was suitable for a wide variety of different devices, and a post on the private Google Glass forum has indicated Google's smart eyewear is being upgraded from Android 4.0.3 to Android 4.4 very soon. 

Huawei to update flagship Ascend P6

Huawei has confirmed on the Sina Weibo social network it would be skipping Android 4.3, and instead working on having Android 4.4 KitKat ready for the Ascend P6 smartphone. It's hoped the software will be ready by January 2014, but it's not clear when it'll be distributed internationally.

It's important to remember the dates provided by manufacturers are rarely set in stone, and can change. Along with any issues which may turn up as the software is worked on, we shouldn't forget that updates must also pass through the networks for approval, a process which can take several weeks. Even when it gets the green light, distribution is usually staggered to help identify any previously unseen problems, meaning it could take a while to get to your phone.

————

Previous article Updates:

Updated on 05-13-2014 by Williams Pelegrin: Verizon updated the support documents for the Razr HD and Razr M with new information about the KitKat update.

Updated on 05-12-2014 by Williams Pelegrin: Android 4.4.2 KitKat is now available for the Verizon variant of the Galaxy Note 3. However, the international Galaxy S3 and S3 Mini 3G aren't so lucky.

Updated on 05-01-2014 by Andy Boxall: Sprint has announced an Android 4.4 update for all Galaxy S3

____________________________________



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Android 4.4 KitKat: Sony’s update for the Xperia Z and Xperia Tablet Z is ready to go (Updated)

Google announced Android 4.4 KitKat in late 2013, and while we know it made its debut on the Nexus 5, its arrival on other smartphones is as always, up in the air. Information has been coming through from various sources since its release, so we've combined all the official announcements, along with any less formal news we've heard, to make sure you know when Android 4.4 KitKat is headed to your device.

Updated on 05-21-2014 by Andy Boxall: Sony has confirmed Android 4.4 is ready for the Xperia Z and several of its spin-off phones, plus the Xperia Tablet Z.

Sony to update modern Xperia hardware

Sony first talked about its plans for Android 4.4 in November last year, and while it was all good news, the wait for any further information has been a long one. Finally, on March 19 2014, Sony published a blog post saying the update for the Xperia Z1, Xperia Z Ultra, and the Xperia Z1 Compact is ready to go.

Sony will add Android 4.4 KitKat to these phones, along with a few new features of its own. These include a new Status Bar and Quick Settings menu, a PS4-style UI with new live wallpaper, plus a wide selection of improvements spread across Sony's stock apps. No exact timeline is given, and the usual warning that these things vary by country and carrier is clearly stated, but it should be on its way soon.

Now its most recent phones have been updated, Sony has turned its attention to the Xperia Z, Xperia ZL, Xperia ZR, and the Xperia Tablet Z. According to a blog post, the Android 4.4 KitKat update for these devices is complete, and will be sent out to selected markets from May 21, with a wider release coming in the next few weeks. All the enhancements listed for the Xperia Z1 are included, along with new versions of Sony's Social Camera and Battery Stamina Mode apps, plus compatibility with the Smartband and Lifelog app.

Finally, the Xperia T2 Ultra, Xperia E1, and the Xperia M2 – including the dual-SIM variants – have all been added to Sony's list for a future Android 4.4 update, which is now expected sometime in July.

Samsung's KitKat updates are coming

Initially, Samsung kept quiet about its plans for 4.4 KitKat, having announced update schedules in the past, then been burned by missing self-imposed deadlines. Following early international tests of the new OS – specifically Galaxy Note 3 owners in Poland during January, and Korean Galaxy S4 phones in February – Samsung soon started sending out its Android 4.4 KitKat updates in America.

On February 13 2014, Sprint officially confirmed the arrival of an Android 4.4 update for the Galaxy S4, posting on its support webpage the new software was being released in stages, and a system prompt would appear once it was ready to download. It warned this may not show up for several days.

A week later, Samsung sent out a press release confirming 4.4 KitKat will soon be available for the following devices across all U.S. networks. These are the Galaxy Note 3 and the Galaxy Note 2, the Galaxy S4, S4 Mini, S4 Active and S4 Zoom, plus the Galaxy S3 and S3 Mini. The Galaxy Mega and Galaxy Light are also listed. Moving on to tablets, the Galaxy Note 8.0, Galaxy Tab 3, Galaxy Note 10.1, and finally, the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition will all be updated to version 4.4. Samsung says all carrier variants will get the update. The rollout began on February 18 and will continue for several months. 

AT&T has now confirmed Galaxy Note 3 devices connected to its networks will be receiving Android 4.4 KitKat from March 27. In a short blog post, the network provides an overview of the new features. KitKat will add the new-look user interface, the option to use Hangouts as the SMS app, wireless printing, better GPS performance, and enhanced audio controls. Additionally, the update will add music controls to the lock screen, and a quick access camera button too.

In addition, AT&T began to roll out Android 4.4.2 KitKat updates to Galaxy S4 Active owners last week. However, the carrier stopped delivering the over-the-air update, saying it is working with Samsung to bring some "potential improvements" to the update. There's speculation that some bugs in the firmware update reared their ugly heads, one of them being Wi-Fi connectivity issues. There's no indication as to when AT&T Galaxy S4 Active owners will be able to update to KitKat.

Reports gathered on April 21 that Korean Galaxy Note 3 Neo devices were being updated to Android 4.4, either over-the-air or through Samsung's Kies software. Additionally, the same update for the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition tablet has also been spotted, although in some smaller international markets. Both these point to a wider release in the near future.

Sure enough, a few days later, Verizon confirmed the Android 4.4 KitKat update was ready for the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition tablet. In addition to the latest version of the OS, the Note 10.1 also gains a full-screen viewing mode, a multi-user option, and faster multi-tasking. Several bugs have been fixed, and some performance enhancements have been made to S-Note. Verizon says the update is being pushed out in phases from around April 28.

Verizon also made available Android 4.4.2 KitKat for the Galaxy Note 3. Owners of the handset can download the update through Samsung Kies or the Verizon Software Assistant, with the update not yet available over-the-air.

If you own a Galaxy Note 2, here's some good news. Your Android 4.4.2 KitKat update appears to be ready, and is being sent out to international versions of the device right now. According to reports, French Note 2 phones are first on the list, with other countries to follow afterwards. It's an over-the-air update, so look out for a notification soon. Features are expected to be in-line with the Galaxy Note 3. 

Positive news for owners of slightly older Galaxy smartphones continued at the beginning of May, when Sprint announced it had an Android 4.4 update for the Galaxy S3 ready to be distributed. The support page doesn't provide any detail, saying only that it would be released on May 1.

However, for the international variant of the Galaxy S3 and S3 Mini 3G, they wont be so luck. In a statement sent to ZDNet, Samsung confirmed that KitKat will not make its way to the two handsets. Samsung blames the handsets' hardware limitations, with both devices having 1GB of RAM. KitKat was released for the Galaxy S3, but only for variants with 2GB of RAM.

As for the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Edition, a post on the official Android Google+ page confirmed the new version was sent out on November 26 2013.

LG sends out KitKat to the G Flex

LG already officially announced the G Flex update for Korea, and has now confirmed its arrival in America. In an April 29 press release, LG stated that G Flex phones on AT&T should already be receiving their update, while Sprint phones will start seeing it over the coming week. Those with their flexible phone connected to T-Mobile will have to wait a little longer, but Android 4.4 should arrive around mid-May. Included in the update is LG's new Knock Code feature, along with an overall performance upgrade, and tweaks to the way the phone uses battery power, which should result in longer periods between charges.

As LG is responsible for the Nexus 5, we'd been expecting to hear something official about Android 4.4 KitKat for the LG G2 quite quickly, but we were forced to be patient. On December 15 2013 we got our first piece of official news. LG published a short press release on its blog, saying the Android 4.4 KitKat update for the G2 was, "In progress," in Korea.

T-Mobile USA became the first network to offer an update to Android 4.4 KitKat for the LG G2, confirming on its official update page the rollout would begin on March 3. Owners should expect to find all the KitKat improvements, along with an auto-brightness option, and general user experience improvements.

Sprint also confirmed it has started sending out Android 4.4 KitKat for the LG G2 on March 31. The update contains the new software version, plus a bug fix for Next Radio. The network warns it's a staggered release, and not all phones will receive notification of the new software at the same time.

At the beginning of April, LG pushed another two Android 4.4 KitKat updates live in Korea, this time for the G Pad tablet, and the Vu 3 smartphone/tablet hybrid. Rumors have also emerged LG is working on Android 4.4 for the Optimus G, its 2012 flagship Android phone. The news comes from the same French network where the mostly accurate reports of the first LG software updates originated.

HTC updates continue with the Verizon HTC One Max

HTC talked about getting Android 4.4 on its devices almost immediately after the software was announced.

A tweet sent though the HTC USA Twitter account on November 13 2013 confirmed the update for the Google Play edition of the HTC One was with Google, and that it was responsible for pushing the update. A Google+ post from the official Android account ten days later confirmed the update was being sent out.

Subsequently, HTC also said Android 4.4 would be out for the Developer Edition and SIM-free HTC One before the end of November. It was right on the money too, as on November 29 it sent out another message saying Android 4.4 KitKat was out for unlocked One phones and the HTC One Developer Edition.

The official HTC USA Twitter account has informed us that HTC One smartphones connected to Sprint will be the first to receive an update to Android 4.4 KitKat. The new version began finding its way to Sprint devices on February 1 2014. Additionally, HTC confirmed Android 4.4 had reached the final "certification" stage with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

On February 6, HTC announced the Verizon update was ready to go, and added Sense 5.5 would also be included. Verizon followed this up with documentation detailing all the alterations. Android 4.4.2 and Sense 5.5 will add a new lock screen process, a redesigned music and gallery app, revised and more detailed location services, plus a Do Not Disturb mode. At the moment, the update is only for the HTC One, but the HTC One Max is set to follow soon. Also, Verizon is investigating an Android 4.4 update for the Droid DNA along with the Virgin Mobile Desire 601.

It has taken more than a month, but HTC has finally got the Android update for the Droid DNA ready to go. Announced by the company's executive product manager on Twitter, Android 4.4.2 accompanied by Sense 5.5 will start making its way to the phone on April 24. As always with these updates, it may not reach your phone on the first day, but sit tight, it'll get there eventually.

Verizon announced on April 8 the HTC One Max was the next in-line for an Android 4.4 KitKat update. All the usual KitKat treats are included, along with a variety of other improvements and bug fixes. Verizon's official documentation talks about a "master switch" and three new profiles for location settings, along with a battery usage indicator for each app using them. Other changes include the notification light now indicating missed calls, emails and pending messages. 

In November 2013, HTC UK announced plans to have Android 4.4 and HTC Sense 5.5 for the One smartphone ready for the end of January 2014. In mid-January, it reiterated the point, saying it was working with local networks to make this happen. However, a short time after the update began, HTC halted the rollout on March 3, after some users complained of rapid battery drain following installation of the new software. On March 18, reports gathered that HTC had restarted the update process. A tweaked version of Android 4.4.2 was being sent out to UK and European HTC One phones, with a fix for an unspecified Wi-Fi issue.

Motorola Moto X and Moto G top of its list

Motorola confirmed the Moto X would be getting Android 4.4 via its website dedicated to software updates. The first Moto X's to get a taste were those connected to Verizon, and Motorola started a staggered rollout on November 19 2013. 

On February 19 2014, Motorola added Moto X smartphones connected to US Cellular to the list. According to the official update page, Android 4.4.2, along with some bug fixes, has been approved for release and should be with owners soon.

Motorola has confirmed Moto X phones connected to AT&T should expect a 4.4.2 KitKat update very soon. The new software promises to fix a few software bugs, including those which may have affected battery life, and one which could have caused problems with international roaming. The main new feature is support for photo printing via Google Cloud Print and HP ePrinters. 

Verizon's Droid phones aren't being left out. In December 2013, via a tweet, the network announced it had started updating the Droid Ultra, Droid Mini, and Droid Maxx to Android 4.4 KitKat. It said the new version would be delivered in stages. You can find a few details on the update here.

Meanwhile, Verizon updated the support documents for both the Motorola Droid Razr HD and Razr M with new information about the updates and changes Android 4.4.2 KitKat will bring. The soak test for both devices has finished, so it seems as if the update will go live soon. Some users have reported the update is live via OTA, with David Schuster of Motorola saying the update should be available to all Razr HD users by week's end.

Motorola confirmed in a blog post that U.S. versions of the Moto G would receive Android 4.4 updates from December 19 2013, and not early 2014 as originally promised. It said phones purchased through Amazon and Motorola would be first, while Moto G phones bought from networks will follow soon. In the UK, a post on Motorola's customer support page listed the improvements Android 4.4 KitKat would bring to the Moto G, and confirmed the update was being sent out.

Google, its Nexus hardware, and Glass

Android 4.4 KitKat slightly deviated from the tradition of previous versions, which all debuted on Nexus hardware, by deciding to also hit the Verizon Moto X at around the same time. Google confirmed Android 4.4 KitKat would come to the Nexus 4 smartphone, plus the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 tablet. The Google Editions of the Galaxy S4 and the HTC One also received some chocolatey Android goodness.

As of November 12 2013, the Nexus 7 (both 2012 and 2013 models) and the Nexus 10 started getting the update, and although no official word came through, reports spread on November 20 that it starting to arrive on Nexus 4 smartphones too. Eagle-eyed Nexus fans will notice the Galaxy Nexus isn't included in the list, and sure enough, the two-year old phone won't be getting any more Google love.

Google has always said Android 4.4 KitKat was suitable for a wide variety of different devices, and a post on the private Google Glass forum has indicated Google's smart eyewear is being upgraded from Android 4.0.3 to Android 4.4 very soon. 

Huawei to update flagship Ascend P6

Huawei has confirmed on the Sina Weibo social network it would be skipping Android 4.3, and instead working on having Android 4.4 KitKat ready for the Ascend P6 smartphone. It's hoped the software will be ready by January 2014, but it's not clear when it'll be distributed internationally.

It's important to remember the dates provided by manufacturers are rarely set in stone, and can change. Along with any issues which may turn up as the software is worked on, we shouldn't forget that updates must also pass through the networks for approval, a process which can take several weeks. Even when it gets the green light, distribution is usually staggered to help identify any previously unseen problems, meaning it could take a while to get to your phone.

————

Previous article Updates:

Updated on 05-13-2014 by Williams Pelegrin: Verizon updated the support documents for the Razr HD and Razr M with new information about the KitKat update.

Updated on 05-12-2014 by Williams Pelegrin: Android 4.4.2 KitKat is now available for the Verizon variant of the Galaxy Note 3. However, the international Galaxy S3 and S3 Mini 3G aren't so lucky.

Updated on 05-01-2014 by Andy Boxall: Sprint has announced an Android 4.4 update for all Galaxy S3
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Nigerians Artiste dominate The AFRIMMA Awards 2014 Full Nominees Listed

"The long awaited nomination list and voting has been released for AFRIMMA. 

AFRIMMA is a highly anticipated award show celebrating the beauty of African music and artistry.

The award show will take place Saturday, July 26, 2014 in Dallas, Texas at the Eisemann Center.

This award show will honor some of the world's top African celebrity musical artists, producers, dj's, and cultural influencers. The star studded event will attract guests from various cities throughout the United States as well as guests and honorees from various African Countries.

This event will be the biggest award show in Diaspora celebrating Africa and its artists.

African Muzik Magazine & AFRIMMA's primary purpose is to cross boundaries with music. The sound of Africa is diverse, and has garnered an international appeal.

This event serves as an opportunity for us to celebrate the top African Acts and the contributions they have made in relation to the African culture and sound through their music. 

AFRIMMA will be hosted by Africa's #1 Comedian, Basket Mouth and Nollywood / Ghollywood sensation, Juliet Ibrahim
.
Confirmed Guests: 2Face, Diamond Platnumz, Stanley Enow, Davido, Flavour, Kcee, Navio, TooFan, Wyre, Timaya, Les Nubians, Fally Ipupa, Bracket, Iyanya, Miriam Chemmoss,, DJ Arafat , J. Martins and many more.
There will also be live performances by Grammy Award Winner Tpain, Jamaican Reggae super star DeMarco and many more.  

To view the list of nominees and vote for your favorite artists please visit www.afrimma.com."

Best Male (West Africa)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Iyanya (Nigeria)
Sarkodie (Ghana)
Dj Arafat (Ivory Coast)
Davido (Nigeria)
Shatta Wale (Ghana)
Flavour Nabania (Nigeria)

Best Female (West Africa)
Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
Chidimma(Nigeria)
Viviane Chidid (Senegal)
Teeyah (Ivory Coast)
Sessima (Benin)
Efya (Ghana)

Best Male (East Africa)

Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
Ben Pol (Tanzania)
Bebe Cool (Uganda)
Wyre (Kenya)
Navio (Uganda)
Jackie Gosee (Ethiopia)

Best Female (East Africa)
Rema (Uganda)
Aster Aweke (Ethiopia)
Avril (Kenya)
Lady Jaydee (Tanzania)
Victoria Kimani (Kenya)
Irene Ntale (Uganda)

Best Male (Central Africa)
Fally Ipupa (DR Congo)
Stanley Enow (Cameroon)
Ferre Gola (Congo)
Privato "Lill'P" Niyintunze (Burundi)
Anselmo Ralph (Angola)
Sine (Cameroon)

Best Female (Central Africa)
Arielle T (Gabon)
Suzanna Lubrano (Cape Verde)
Gasha (Cameroon)
Lady Ponce ( Cameroon)
Ceuzeny (Cape Verde)
Ary (Angola)

Best Male (Southern Africa)
Aka (South Africa)
Zeus (Botswana)
Donald (South Africa)
Slap Dee (Zambia)
Khuli Chana (South Africa)
Stunner (Zimbabwe)
Tha Dogg (Namibia)

Best Female (Southern Africa)
Lira (South Africa)
Toya De Lazy (South Africa)
Judy (Zambia)
Zahara (South Africa)
Kearoma Rantao (Botswana)
Lizha James (Mozambique)

Best Male (Diaspora)
Lira (South Africa)
Toya De Lazy (South Africa)
Judy (Zambia)
Zahara (South Africa)
Kearoma Rantao (Botswana)
Lizha James (Mozambique)

Best Female (Diaspora)
Miriam Chemmoss (Kenya)
Mayra Andrade (Cape Verde)
Bumi Thomas (Nigeria)
STL (Kenya)
Les Nubians(Cameroun)
Nneka (Nigeria)
Dencia (Cameroon)

Best African Group
Psquare (Nigeria)
Mafikizolo (South Africa)
R2bee's (Ghana)
Bracket (Nigeria)
Radio and Weasel (Uganda)
Toofan (Togo)
Sauti Sol (Kenya)

Best Dancehall Artiste
amini (Ghana)
Wyre (Kenya)
Timaya (Nigeria)
MC Norman (Uganda)
Dr. Jose Chameleon (Uganda)
Shatta Wale (Ghana)

Best Gospel Artiste
Nikki Laoye (Nigeria)
Sonnie Badu (Ghana)
Icha kavons (Congo)
Bahati (Kenya)
Ntokozo Mbambo (South Africa)
Emmy Kosgei (Kenya)
Uche Agu (Nigeria)


Best Dance In A Video
Iyanya – Lekwa Ukwu
Kcee – Limpopo
Guru – Alkayida
Davido – Skelewu
P-Square – Personally


Best Traditional Artiste
Flavour (Nigeria)
Kwabena Kwabena (Ghana)
Bassekou Kouyate (Mali)
Sayicology (South Africa)
Mrisho Topo (Tanzania)
Stanlux (Togo)
Tunakie (Namibia)


Best Newcomer
Stanley Enow (Cameroon)
Nakhane Toure (South Africa)
Joey B (Ghana)
Phyno (Nigeria)
Eddy Kenzo (Uganda)
Sage (Kenya)

Best Video Director
Clarence Peters (Nigeria)
Ogopa DJ's (Kenya)
Patrick Elis (Nigeria)
Klasszik & JKP STUDIO (Angola)
Pharoah Films (Ghana)
Godfather (South Africa)


Best African DJ (USA)
DJ Shinski (Kenya)
DJ Josh (Kenya)
DJ Fully Focus (Kenya)
DJ Amin (Ethiopia)
DJ Dee Money (NG/US)
DJ Ronnie (GH/US)
Dj Ecool (Nigeria)

Best DJ Africa
Dj Jimmy Jatt (Nigeria)
Dj Exclusive (Nigeria)
Dj Joe Mfalme (Kenya)
Dj Cndo (South Africa)
Dj Black (Ghana)
Dj Creme de la Creme (Kenya)
DJ Shiru (Uganda)

Best Video of the Year
Psquare – Personally
Sarkodie – Illuminati
Mafikizolo ft Uhuru – Khona
Diamond Platnumz – Number One
Flavour – Ada Ada
Anselmo Ralph – Unica Mulher

Music Producer of the Year
Shizzi (Nigeria)
Killbeatz (Ghana)
Dj Oskido (South Africa)
Nash Wonder (Uganda)
Sheddy Clever (Tanzania)
Ogopa (Kenya)
Don Jazzy (Nigeria)

Best Rap Act
Sarkodie (Ghana)
AKA (South Africa)
Olamide (Nigeria)
Phyno (Nigeria)
Octopizzo (Kenya)
M.anifest (Ghana)
Zeus (Botswana)

Best Collaboration
2face ft Tpain
Diamondz ft Davido – Number One Remix
Mafikizolo ft Uhuru – Khona
Dr Sid ft Don Jazzy, Phyno, Wizkid – Surulere Remix
Amani ft Radio and Weasel – 'Kiboko Changu' (Kenya/Uganda)
Jmartins ft DJ Arafat – Touching body
R2bess and Wizkid – Slow down

Best Dance Group
CEO Dancers
Unique Silver Dancers
Afro Mask
Imagineto Dance Company
D3 Dancers

Song of the Year
Davido – Skelewu (Nigeria)
Mafikizolo feat Uhuru – Khona (South Africa)
KCee – Limpopo (Nigeria)
P Square – Personally (Nigeria)
Yuri Da Cunha – Atchu Tchu Tcha (Angola)
Fuse ODG feat Wyclef – Antenna Remix (Ghana)
L.A.X feat Wizkid – Caro (Nigeria)
Diamond feat Davido – Number One Remix (Tanzania)

Artiste of the Year
Flavour (Nigeria)
Davido (Nigeria)
Diamond (Tanzania)
Sarkodie (Ghana)
Mafikizolo (South Africa)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Anselmo Ralph – A Dor do Cupido (Angola)
Jaguar (Kenya)

To vote for your favourite in each category, head to AFRIMMA.COM
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Oh. Heaven does have a sound. It’s the V8 howl of the Mercedes-AMG GT

Since Mercedes-Benz teased its forthcoming sports car, the AMG GT, earlier this year with images of its supple, red-accented interior, we've been waiting with bated breath for snapshots of the whole thing.

Sadly, today is not that day.

Instead, Mercedes has teased not the car's body, which, according to a Top Gear interview with Gordon Wagener, Mercedes' chief designer, "will be the most beautiful car my team and me have ever designed," but rather its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine howl.



That's not the only mightily boastful statement the German brand is making about its forthcoming Porsche-punching sports car; in the video, as the engine roars, Mercedes runs copy saying, "This is what you get when a company unleashes its creative and engineering forces to combine the absolute best of all it has ever done into a single, monumental, unwavering engineering achievement."





Boy, this had better be a good car, because, if it's not, there are going to be some seriously embarrassed Germans moping around Stuttgart.

Mercedes-AMG has seriously caught our attention, not with its braggadocio but rather with the roar of that mighty V8. We'll be sure to keep up on this story, so be sure to check back soon for more updates.
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Spotify company finally hits 10 million paid subscriber mark

Flickr/Jon Aslund
Spotify might just be on the verge of success with its paid subscription music streaming service. The Swedish company now has 10 million paid subscribers and 40 million monthly active users in 56 countries.

Spotify has been gaining new paid subscribers steadily over the past few years, proving that users will pay a premium for full access to all of its features. Just a little over a year ago in March 2013, Spotify only had 6 million paid subscribers. That's a pretty big jump in a short amount of time. Spotify's sleek new redesign, student discount promotion, and the addition of new music from the world's most popular artists has helped the music streaming service add more paid subscribers.

Hit artists such as Eminem and Rihanna have helped catapult Spotify into the limelight. Spotify also says that popular songs from new artists are driving growth. Avicii's song "Wake Me Up" is officially the most frequently streamed song in history. Spotify announced that 1.5 billion playlists have been created so far.

"We've had an amazing year, growing from 20 markets to 56 as people from around the world embrace streaming music. Ten million subscribers is an important milestone for both Spotify and the entire music industry," Spotify CEO and Founder Daniel Ek said in a statement. "We're widening our lead in the digital music space and will continue to focus on getting everyone in the world to listen to more music."

Part of Spotify's appeal lies in its easy customizability. As more users discover the benefit of having unlimited access to songs on and offline, music streaming services like Spotify will continue to grow. It hopes to ensure that the majority of its users become paid subscribers by offering ad-free, offline music streaming to those who are willing to pay $10 a month. Once you've finished the trial period with Spotify Premium, it's tough to go over to the more limited free version. Speculation is rife that should Spotify continue to succeed, it may go public sooner rather than later.

Image via Flickr/Jon Aslund

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