Chinese Mobile Networks Can Now Set Their Own Prices
China Mobile is just one of the big mobile names in China and it, along with all other networks, are now allowed to set their own pricing. In a statement from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology it’s now declared that “”All telecom service tariffs will be regulated by the market, and telecommunications companies can independently draw up specific tariff structures, standards and billing methods.” This will hopefully foster the same sort of competition that’s enjoyed throughout Europe and in the US. Obviously, it’s going to be a little while before we see the results of this, but competition should help further the mobile market, especially with 4G LTE having launched in China.
Airtel Offers Data Packages for WhatsApp Users
Customers of the Indian network Airtel can now get access to 200MB of data month for use with WhatsApp. Prices depend on the region, but cost around RS 50, which is very good for peace of mind when using WhatsApp. Airtel customers can find out more by sending a message ‘WhatsApp’ to 121 and it’s available to those on 2G and 3G tariffs.
Google Maps Gets Even Better for UK Residents With New Public Transport Data
We covered this a little earlier in the week, but UK residents have one more reason to love Google Maps. It was always good in the UK, but it’s now been updated on Android as well as the web with 17,000 routes throughout the UK. Northern Ireland is still being worked on, but these new routes work across England, Wales, and Scotland with routes for bus, train, ferry and beyond.
Google’s Chromecast Now Available in South Korea
We’re big fans of the Chromecast here at Android Headlines, it makes life a whole lot easier when trying to watch content on the big screen, it’s affordable and there’s very little extra bulk to get in the way. Now, the Chromecast has made its way to Asia, launching in South Korea for 49,000 Won and it can be bought from Google’s local site.
UK Government Give Samsung’s Knox the Go Ahead for Official Use
Samsung’s Knox suite has been the company’s super-secure app to get people and businesses all over the world to leave BlackBerries and it seems to be working. A security suite that sits atop their build of TouchWiz on Galaxy devices, Knox is there to keep your device and content safe from prying eyes. The UK Government this week certified the software on the Galaxy S5, Galaxy S4, Galaxy S3 and the Galaxy Note 3.
Dixons and Carphone Warehouse Formally Announce UK Merger
Dixons, the group best known for their Currys/PC World mega stores as of late has formally announced a merger with Carphone Warehouse. While the specifics of how much the deal is worth haven’t been released, it’s rumored to be worth £3.7 Billion. Sebestian James, CEO of the Dixons Group had this to say about the merger: ” The ability to take what we have built in electrical retailing and add the profound expertise of Carphone Warehouse in connectivity would make us a leading force in retailing for a connected world. Together we can create a seamless experience for our customers that will enable technology to deliver what it promises – that is, to make their lives better.” It’s said that the deal could result in a new group dubbed the Dixons Carphone Group in which the two separate companies are equal partners. One thing’s for certain though, Phones 4 U exec’s are in for a rough ride over the next couple of years.
Airtel and Vodafone India Announce Carrier Billing for Samsung Apps
Samsung users will now be able to have their purchases from the Samsung App Store feature on their network bill. Samsung has partnered with Vodafone and Airtel to allow purchases from the store to be included in network bills and is available to postpaid and prepaid customers. Samsung had this to say on the matter: “We are excited to partner with India’s major telecom operators for this unique integration. This exclusive tie-up on Samsung App store further showcases our commitment to providing the best service experience to our customers. Given the poor credit card penetration in the country, we are positive that this move will be welcomed by customers. It is another step forward to expand our engagement with the publisher and developer community by enhancing adoption as well as monetization from the store.”