Got a lush phone that goes with you everywhere? Looking to snag yourself the new Samsung Galaxy S when it launches on 25^th February? Then you need to get au fait with the best apps around. 2018 has seen some nice updates to old favourites, quirky new launches, and downright useful apps that will bring your phone to life. And seeing as everyone’s talking about the new Samsung device, let’s focus on 9 essential Android apps that will work perfectly on the hottest smartphone of 2018 so far (we’re drooling here)…

Life hacks (Free)

Whether you’re looking for Money Savers, Technology Tricks or Life Tips, this app taps into today’s rising need to simplify our lives. The variety of categories means that there’s usually something for everyone. You might get the odd random suggestion, but on the whole it’s a pretty useful android app to have on-hand.

Replika (Free)

Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant… the list of virtual PAs is growing by the day. So why not get your smartphone set up with an ultra-helpful pal? Bixby Intelligence is an awesome feature on the Samsung Galaxy S8 (it’s worth checking this out when you get your shiny new Samsung) but Replika is brilliant. This AI chatbot is more advanced than many because it gets to know you by asking you questions. Your responses are then saved and sorted by date, so you can build a journal and reflect on life. Poignant stuff.

Amazon Kindle (Free)

It may not be one of the latest additions to the apps on Android, but Amazon Kindle is a prime example (see what we did there?) of an app that’s recently been revamped. It has new themes and a really straightforward interface. Plus, it’s the perfect partner for Samsung Galaxy models – with their large display and crisp, sharp graphics, you’ll be laughing (or crying, depending on what you’re reading). Who needs a Kindle to enjoy Amazon ebooks, just get stuck in on your smartphone and then pick up where you left off on any device.

Rabbit – Watch Together (Free)

There’s something comforting about watching TV with family and friends and Rabbit hones in on this love of sharing. Rabbit plays stuff from YouTube and the internet, so there’s plenty to choose from; then you can start a video on your device and invite mates into a chat room so they can watch the video with you. You’ll be able to see them and talk to them in the same way you would if they were sat on your sofa. Or, if you find that too off-putting, you can simply use the chat function. This app works perfectly with Go Binge and your fabulous large Samsung Galaxy S display.

Fitbit Coach (£6.30 a month)

OK, so there are loads of fitness apps out there that are free, but we thought this one was worth a mention, despite the cost (note that you can access some workouts for free to get a taste of the app before you part with any money).

Fitbit Coach (previously Fitstar) has loads of workouts, walks and runs that cater for all abilities. And there are at least 24 different treadmill workouts, so if you don’t fancy braving the elements you can still use Fitbit Coach as a PT in the gym.

Many of the workouts are videos that you can watch on your phone or TV, but you can select audio options for runs and walks. You also get built-in soundtracks from Fitbit Radio, so now there’s no excuse not to be motivated. Oh, and you don’t need a Fitbit to use this one – just make sure your slinky new Samsung is working out with you.

Gratus (Free)

“You’ve got to accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative”, as Bing Crosby once said. And he’s right. In our fast-paced world it’s easy to forget all the stuff we should be grateful for (like that flash new Samsung Galaxy S…).

Gratus is designed to remind you of all the things you’re grateful for as you build up your own collection which you can check out whenever you need a little boost.

It may all sound a little random, but acknowledging and reminding ourselves of things we’re grateful for can really make you happier. And if you’re not too sad about paying £2.59, you’ll get automatic reminders and notifications. So, if you’re in the worst mood ever and gratitude is not on your radar, you can rely on your phone to keep you grounded.

UVLens (Free)

If you’re fed up of getting sunburnt on a cloudy beach in Bognor, this could be the app for you. We’re all different in terms of how much UV we can take, and sometimes the predicted weather conditions won’t feel like an issue. But UVLens tells you the UV index throughout the day, so there’s no excuse for that lobster look.

Once you’ve told it some details about your skin type it’ll estimate how quickly you’ll burn and how you can avoid damage. Don’t forget to download UVLens before you jet off to sunnier climes, and check out Feel At Home to put an end to your data roaming worries.

Geocaching® (Free)

The treasure-hunting craze that’s sweeping the nation has an official app that you need in your life. If you’re new to the concept, Geocaching is basically a game where you hunt for hidden items, known as ‘caches’ using GPS coordinates. And you can hide your own for others to find.

Whether you’re hunting for hoards on the high street, or searching out stashes in the depths of the New Forest, this app will get the whole family out and about. All you need is a trusty GPS device – so the new Samsung Galaxy S could be your perfect partner. What are you waiting for?

Snapseed (Free)

Today’s smartphones make portable cameras a thing of the past. And tech giants Samsung have taken camera phones to the next level. So, whether you’ve got an S8, or you’re in the running for the newest model in the Galaxy S range, you can be sure of capturing some awesome images.

If you want to take your photos to the next level, make sure you download the Snapseed app. It’s got a unique interface which is based on gestures – so you can control effects and filters with a swipe. With tools like Spot Repair, Brush, Lens Blur and zoom controls, all your photo editing needs are sorted. Perfect for serious and amateur snappers alike, we think this is the best camera app for Android.

So, there we have it – 9 essential Android apps for your Samsung. But don’t just take our word for it, download them now and see what you think.

The post 9 essential Android apps for your new Samsung smartphone appeared first on Hub.

Source: Three Mobile Hub
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Light the candle and turn out the lights, because Wuntu is a big fat ONE today. The app that brings us free coffees, free pizzas, free movies and loads of awesome offers and deals has now been in our lives and spoiling us rotten for 365 glorious days.

So, what better way to celebrate than with free cake? In true Wuntu style you can enjoy a super-yummy, super-sticky slice of cake and a free regular hot drink today (2^nd February). All courtesy of the birthday boy/girl, of course.

And this isn’t just any coffee and cake. Because you get to sample the delights of Patisserie Valerie – the UK’s largest patisserie chain – which offers stunning handmade cakes and speciality drinks to eat in or takeaway. From Strawberry or Black Forest Gateau, to Mixed Berry Mousse and cheesecake – you can choose your favourite slice and pair it with your preferred beverage at these beautiful continental eateries around the UK.

If you haven’t got Wuntu in your life, here’s how to get it (and how to get your hands on those tasty birthday treats):

1. Download the Wuntu app from Google Play or the App Store (if you haven’t got it already)

2. Click on the Patisserie Valerie offer and click ‘Use now’

3. Pop in to your local Patisserie Valerie and show the code to the cashier when you order your slice of cake and regular-sized hot drink (full details of what’s on offer are in the terms and conditions below)

Enjoy!

 

Terms & conditions

1. Offer is only valid on regular hot drinks. Hot drinks included in this offer are as follows: Espresso, Macchiato, Cappuccino, Decaffeinated Cappuccino, Caffe Latte, Decaffeinated Latte, Caffe Mocha, Americano Black, Decaffeinated Americano, Hot Chocolate and our range of teas.

2. Any extras will be charged accordingly.

3. Unique valid code must be shown to a member of staff to redeem.

4. One claim per user, per unique code.

5. Offer is valid to redeem on 2^nd February 2018, only. Any codes shown after the 2^nd February 2018 will not be valid or accepted.

6. This offer is available to redeem in any Patisserie Valerie stores only. You can find your nearest Patisserie Valier location here: https://www.patisserie-valerie.co.uk/cafes.aspx

7. Not valid to redeem online.

8. Offer is valid for one regular hot drink and one individual gateau slice.

9. Tarts, eclairs cupcakes are excluded.

10. Offer is subject to availability and whilst stocks last. An alternative product may be supplied.

11. If you require a gluten free treat, please speak with your server to arrange an alternative. Gluten free alternative products are subject to availability and whilst stocks last.

12. Vegan and dairy-free options are not available.

13. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. No cash value. Unique code cannot be used to purchase any other items.

14. Valid to dine in/take away.

15. Patisserie Valerie reserves the right to refuse/amend this offer in any way deemed appropriate.

The post Celebrate Wuntu’s first birthday today appeared first on Hub.

Source: Three Mobile Hub
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It’s that time of the year again! The Rugby Six Nations 2018 Championship is here, and we’re as excited as it gets. And since we’re feeling good about it, we thought we’d share the love, and give you a few ideas on how to use Three to enjoy the Six Nations as much as possible. Oh, and hopefully save a few quid in the process.

 

Save money at the away games, with Feel At Home

Heading to Italy, France or Ireland for one of the European Rugby 6 nations fixtures? First of all, we’re too jealous for words. But secondly, you can rest easy in the knowledge that you can use your data allowance, and call and text home at no extra cost, with Feel At Home. That way, you won’t have to pay any nasty roaming charges for sending all those bragging Six Nations Selfies to everyone stuck back at home.

 

Stay in touch with your mates for less

The biggest problem with going to a game is trying to keep everyone together – and that’s even before you make it to the venue. Well, worry not – all of our SIM Plans come with unlimited texts, so no matter how many’s in your posse, you’ll be able to round them all up without paying anything extra.

 

Not heading to any Six Nations fixtures? You can still catch them on the go.

Stuck at home for every game? Working through everything? Well, there’s still a bit of hope yet. If you take out one of our Advanced Plans on 4GB or more, you’ll get Go Binge thrown in for free. And why does that soothe the pain of missing out on every one of the Rugby Six Nations 2018 dates, I hear you ask? Well, because with Go Binge, you can use TVPlayer to watch every game on ITV and BBC, on the go (or when you’re hiding in work), at no extra cost and without using up any of your data.

So whether you’re heading to any, all or none of the rugby Six Nations 2018 dates, we’ve got a nice solution for you, to make sure you’re not paying through the nose. Apart from the ticket prices, obviously.

The post Top ways to enjoy the Rugby Six Nations 2018 dates, with Three appeared first on Hub.

Source: Three Mobile Hub
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When it comes to good food, the Italians have it sussed. Creamy Carbonara, rich and beefy Bolognese, mouth-watering Margherita pizza… The list of classic dishes goes on and on.

So, if we’ve whet your appetite and got your taste-buds tingling, you’ll love this week’s delicious deal from Wuntu. You get to savour a scrumptious Italian dish at Bella Italia for just £3, thanks to our exclusive rewards app. That’s a lovingly prepared, authentic Italian meal from one of the UK’s most popular restaurant chains, all for the price of a micro-meal. Grazie Wuntu.

And if you fancy making a night of it, why not take a mate or a date? If they’re with Three and they’ve got the Wuntu app, you can both get the Bella Italia voucher to devour a mouth-watering main for a fraction of the price. If they’re not with us, all they need to do is check out our SIM plans and pop in a Three SIM to be able to make the most of Wuntu. The app is quick and easy to download and use, and there are lovely new deals and freebies every week.  Just go to Wuntu in the App Store or Google Play to get started.

This Bella Italia offer is available from 31st January through to 6th Feb from 12pm each day (excluding Saturday 3rd Feb). So what are you waiting for?

 

Here’s how to get your meal for £3:

1. Swing by your local participating Bella Italia – Don’t forget you won’t be able to get this offer on Saturday (3rd Feb)
(There are some exceptions to the restaurants accepting this offer, so we’ve listed them in the Ts & Cs below.)

2. Choose from the in-house pasta or classic pizzas ranges.

3. When it’s time to ask for the bill, let your server know you have a voucher code to use.

4. Open up your Wuntu app, and select ‘Use Now’ on the Bella Italia offer to get your unique redemption code.

5. Show the voucher code to the server, and they’ll redeem it against your bill.

And that’s all there is to it. Forget the cooking and the washing up – hot foot it to your local participating Bella Italia to dine out in style for just £3. Bueno appetito!

 

Terms & Conditions

1. Code expires 06.02.18 at 23.55. Last food order 30 mins before closing.

2. £3 for any eat-in pasta or classic pizza (this offer is not valid on takeaway/delivery).

3. Offer can be redeemed at participating restaurants after 12pm from 31.01.18 to 06.02.18, excluding Saturday 03.01.18. Subject to availability.

4. 1 voucher per person. Max 2 vouchers per table.

5. Not valid at Airports, Center Parcs, Edinburgh Northbridge, London Argyll Street or London South Kensington on any day. Other site exclusions apply see full T&Cs for details.

6. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer, voucher, set menu, discount card or Tesco Clubcard points or tokens.

7. UK residents only.

8. https://www.bellaItalia.co.uk/privacy-policy gives details of Partner’s privacy policy and how your personal data is collected and processed.

9. For any code queries, contact Three using Help & Support within the app. For all offer queries or related Partner terms and conditions, please contact https://www.bellaItalia.co.uk/contact-us

10. For full T&Cs visit https://threemicrosites.co.uk/rewardstermsandconditions

11. Download of code indicates acceptance of the full Terms and Conditions.

The post Enjoy a Bella Italia meal for just £3. appeared first on Hub.

Source: Three Mobile Hub
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Whether you’re a wannabe Mo Farah or a fair-weather runner, we’ve pulled together the best running apps to make clocking the miles a little easier, and much more enjoyable.

From coaching to nutrition to motivation, we’ve rounded up some cool apps (and some weird wearables in a different article) that will make you want to keep running long after the marathon has come and gone. Check out our picks for the best running apps available on your iPhone or Android, to improve your performance, increase the mileage and even turn running into a game.

The apps to download now…

Zombies, Run! – iPhone, Android (free)

Ever dreamed of being an extra in The Walking Dead? Who hasn’t? Zombies, Run! – aka our current obsession – turns the tedium of training into the most fun of your life. And, most importantly, pushes you to go faster. Every so often, zombies start chasing you and you need to bolt to escape unscathed. Just keep your headphones in to hear your zombie mission. And don’t be surprised when you’ve been running nonstop for 60 minutes… when you could only manage 30 a week ago.
Run an Empire – iPhone (free)

If you like your exercise to come with a side of world domination, you’ll love this gamified running app. It’ll have you racing against friends, conquering local lands (by jogging or running around them), invading new lands and defending your territories. Strategy meets sprinting. Plus, you get to design your own shield, which in our opinion makes it one of the best running apps on its own.

 

 

Charity Miles – iPhone, Android (free)

If you’re struggling with motivation, this is one of the very best running apps for you. With Charity Miles, every mile you run (or walk or cycle) makes a small amount of money for charity. You get to choose from a list of charities, and it’s the best incentive for getting your trainers on.

There are no details like steps, calories burned or speed, but distance is everything. You can basically take part in a fun run whenever you fancy it.

Bugmiles – iPhone, Android (free)

This is one of the most fun and sociable running apps around. With Bugmiles you can belong to a virtual running club. Log your miles and track your progress, and get instant feedback, support and motivation from thousands of fellow runners. The app gives you info on loads of organised events from fun runs and 5ks to marathons – and there’s a lifestyle section with articles and interviews.

On top of all this there’s nutrition advice, tips and tricks for getting the best out of your running, helpful guides to the best running gear, recipes and more. This is a really great app with everything you could possibly need for your running adventures.

Runkeeper – iPhone, Android (free)

This app is one of the most popular amongst runners, with more than 45 million members. It records your pace, distance, exercise time, calories burned and much more.

Crucially for those who have a long-term goal, you can track your workout history and measure your progress. There’s a ‘goal coach’ feature to help you reach your long-term aims and the Runkeeper DJ will provide your perfect playlist. You can be sure to stay on track with personalised routines that take into account life’s demands and adapt to your busy schedule.

MapMyRun – iPhone, Android (free)

As well as covering the usual metrics, this innovative app uses your phone’s GPS to track the course you run. This is great for reviewing and plotting your next route, adding variety to your workout.

Plus, sync the app to your social media platforms and let the world know which terrain you’ve tackled. With a number of useful additional features, such as a heart rate sensor, it’s well worth a look.

Couch to 5K – iPhone, Android (£2.99)

This app is a tried-and-tested favourite that can turn even the most committed couch potato into a runner. We like that it eases you into running with a gentle training programme that will have you capable of doing a 5k in just nine weeks.

TempoRun – iPhone (79p)

Want music on the move? In a nutshell, this is a music app for runners. It will analyse your music and automatically sort your songs by tempo (using a rating between one and 10) so that you can listen to the right tunes for your run.

Why is this useful? Experienced fitness fanatics will know that you don’t tend to run at a steady pace. And with the growing popularity of high-intensity workouts, you can listen to an appropriately-paced track at different points of your run. Get a high-octane, inspiring tune when you’re sprinting and a slow-paced sound when you’re jogging.

This iPhone app doesn’t distinguish between genres of music, but it is able to assess the number of beats in a song. And of course, like the other apps, you can also use this one to track the finer details of your running history, like your pace, time and distance.

Running Trainer – iPhone, Android (free)

If you like the sound of a PT guiding you through your run, then you’ll love this app, which gives you audio instructions and real-time updates. Good across a range of running levels, so you can build up from your 5 or 10k to a 1/2 or full marathon.

Runtastic – iPhone, Android (free)

This app does all the things you’d expect from a running app, but also includes the option to fill out an exercise diary, adding a welcome personal touch. Running apps are sometimes guilty of information overload, so the ability to configure your dashboard so that it only shows the bits and pieces you’re interested in is an added bonus.

Nike+ Running – iPhone, Android (free)

There are a couple of great aspects to what is arguably the best of the best running apps. Firstly, it works on a treadmill. So when you don’t fancy braving the unpredictable British weather, you can head to the gym and still accurately record your pace, time and distance. Secondly, you can load up a ‘power song’ of your choice to kick in when you’re flagging mid-run.

 

Main pic credit: Via Pexels/gratisography.com

The post The best running apps (whether you’re a pro or a rookie) appeared first on Hub.

Source: Three Mobile Hub
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We’re super-connected in the age of the internet; there’s an expectation to answer messages instantly and keep your social media accounts up to date. But what about the way we use the internet to shop and handle money? Can the emails we get be trusted? The online network is rife with untrustworthy and unsecured sites, so it’s important to stay savvy with your personal details, to avoid the potential for phishing.

 

Phishing.

Chances are, if you’ve spent any time online, you’ve heard of Phishing, but what does it mean? Phishing is a term that’s used to describe attempts via fake emails to gain access to your personal information. You might recognise some of our examples.

 

‘Your account has been blocked.’

Ever had that email from ‘PayPal’, telling you that your account has been limited because of unrecognised activity? It looks legit – the logo’s there and the contact details at the bottom seem correct. All you have to do is follow the provided link to sign in, and you’ll get your account reactivated. Easy.

Yet, as soon as you click that link, you’ll be diverted to a scam site, unaffiliated with PayPal, and only interested in collecting your username and password so they have access to your account.

Never click on email links that ask you to enter your details. If you’re concerned, go to the company’s website directly, and find contact details.

 

‘Dear Sir/Madam, we need to verify your details.’

The emails you might get that start with ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ may seem professional, but be careful. These types of correspondence are only addressed to you this way because they don’t know who you are. They’ll ask you to click on a link or reply with some or all of your details – email addresses, passwords, PIN numbers – so that they can gain access to your account, and you might find yourself blocked.

Most legitimate companies will address you by name. They know who you are, because they already have your details, securely stored.

 

Poor grammar or spelling.

Perhaps the most prevalent phishing emails you’ll see are easily identified by their poor use of grammar and terrible spelling. Trusted companies have professional people to check their comms before they’re sent out, so even if the email you’re reading seems otherwise legitimate, be wary of spelling mistakes and bad grammar.

Contact the company directly to let them know, and don’t click on any links you’ve been sent.

 

Top tips to avoid getting scammed.

1. Never give out any passwords to anyone, over the phone, in person, online or via email.

2. Your bank, network provider and many other companies that handle your money will usually ask you to enter select characters of a password or login number. If you’re asked for your full password or login number by one of these companies, it’s almost certainly a phishing scam, and you should contact your bank or network provider immediately.

3. Never click on links in emails or texts that ask you to sign in to your account. Close the email and go directly to the company’s website.

4. Install good virus protection on your personal computer. You can buy trusted anti-virus software from companies like McAfee and Norton, or you can download free software from well-respected places, such as Avast and Kaspersky. Make sure you research the software you choose.

5. Make sure you’re visiting secure websites. You can look for the padlock icon in the address bar to check if a website is secure.

6. Remember, grammar and spelling are important to respectable companies like your internet or network provider and your bank, so if something reads really badly, it’s probably a scam.

7. Your bank, phone provider and money management companies know you. They’ll address you by name.

8. If you’re worried about the security of your personal details, you can find out more on our Fraud and Security page. Keep your details protected, stay safe online, and stay connected.

The post How to recognise phishing scams online. appeared first on Hub.

Source: Three Mobile Hub
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There’s been a great deal of controversy recently about the problems consumers are having with the performance of their iPhone 6 battery. It’s been a hot topic online and in the news, with Government reps and legal eagles getting in on the backlash.

It all began with consumers complaining that the performance of iPhone 6 was poor; which led to Apple confirming that it’s been reducing the performance of older phones (iPhone 6, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and iPhone SE) to keep up with the declining batteries. It was a decision that probably wasn’t taken lightly, with Apple being concerned that the older batteries couldn’t keep pace with the performance of iPhone 6, and may cause it to shut down. But it’s had everyone up in arms.

Among the furore, manufacturers of Android devices – such as Samsung and Motorola – are keen to point out that this isn’t a problem you’ll get on an Android device. But Primate Labs (the company that created Geekbench who analyse software performance) decided to do a check of older Android smartphones by using the same set of data that exposed the iPhone issue. Here’s what John Poole, founder of Primate Labs and the author of the study that confirmed the iPhone battery issue, had to say to MashableUK:

“We focused on Samsung simply because they are the largest handset provider on Android, and we viewed this as a litmus test. We haven’t seen any evidence of this widespread performance-limiting problem that has affected the Apple iPhones. It seems to be that this is a problem that is very unique to Apple.”

How have Apple reacted?

They’re facing lawsuits and outrage but Apple has apologised to customers and the tech giants have been quick to put minds at rest by offering a heavily discounted iPhone 6 battery replacement for users to fix their iPhone issues. You can get your UK battery replacement for iPhone 6, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus and iPhone SE for £25 rather than £79. That’s a saving of more than 30%. Apple have also said that all iPhone 6 and later devices will qualify for replacements, regardless of whether or not they pass diagnostics tests.

What does this mean for you and your iPhone?

The great news for iPhone lovers everywhere is that if you’re worried about your battery and performance, you don’t have to worry about splashing too much cash with a super-low iPhone replacement battery cost. And you certainly don’t need to go to the lengths of changing your phone altogether and upgrading to the latest iPhone X.

So, stick with your well-loved smartphone and bag yourself a bargain battery replacement from Apple to get it running as quickly as it was meant to. We’ll show you how to replace your iPhone 6 battery – don’t worry it’s quick and easy. And, if you were planning to splash some cash on a new phone and fancied trying a new network at the same time, don’t forget that you can go for a SIM Only plan. If you pop in a Three SIM you’ll be on an award-winning network with added benefits for people who love TV, movies, music and data, thanks to Go Binge, which is exclusive to Three. Go Binge lets you stream movies and shows infinitely with Netflix and TVPlayer; and you can stream music to your heart’s content with Deezer, SoundCloud and Apple Music – making Three the perfect partner for your iPhone. All of this, without using up your data allowance.

Plus, with Feel at Home Around the World you can use your iPhone to roam in 71 destinations without paying a penny more for calls, texts and data. With all this on offer, why wouldn’t you want your iPhone on Three?

The post iPhone 6 battery replacement: the lowdown. appeared first on Hub.

Source: Three Mobile Hub
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