What you need to know
- Your Phone could be pre-installed on some future Samsung devices according to a new report.
- Samsung already partners with Microsoft on pre-installing some Microsoft software.
- The Your Phone app has shipped some features exclusively to Samsung phones for testing.
The Your Phone app and other Microsoft apps could be pre-installed on some Samsung devices according to a report from ZDNet. The report claims that Microsoft and Samsung recently updated their partnership agreement and that the updated agreement could lead to some Samsung devices shipping with Microsoft apps pre-installed, including the Your Phone app.
Samsung Unpacked is next week, and it's expected that the Galaxy Note 10 will be unveiled at the event. According to the the report from Mary Jo Foley, Microsoft will be on stage as well at the event. Microsoft will reportedly show off how several Microsoft apps will work on Samsung phones.
Microsoft has worked with Samsung more and more over the last few years. Some Samsung devices already ship with Microsoft productivity apps pre-installed. Additionally, some Your Phone features have been publicly beta-tested exclusively on Samsung devices. When screen mirroring launched, it only worked with select Samsung Galaxy phones.
While an updated deal hasn't been confirmed publicly by Microsoft or Samsung, it wouldn't be surprising to see the two companies continue to pair up. Microsoft has invested quite a few resources into Your Phone and is expanding the team that makes it.
Your Phone allows you to sync text messages, photos, and notifications from your phone to your Windows 10 PC.
Portable (and affordable) power accessories we love
Each and every one of these charging gadgets will keep your favorite gear and gadgets going for longer, and none of them costs more than $30.
VisionTek 8,000 mAh micro-USB power bank ($13 at Dell)
This compact dual-output powerbank can speedily recharge any and all your devices, thanks to a two-amp "fast charge feature," using its micro-USB out port. Its simple design includes an LED indicator, and it costs about as much as a single ticket to the movies.
Panasonic eneloop AA batteries (From $13 at Dell)
Panasonic's rechargeable batteries are among the best available, and just a couple of them will keep your favorite remote, mice or other peripherals powered up when you need them. They're also eco. And the company's affordable charger fits and charges both AA and AAA batteries at the same time.
Belkin Qi Wireless Charging Pad ($30 at Dell)
This unobtrusive Qi wireless charging pad looks good (and kind of like a UFO …) and easily charges all your Qi-compatible device up to 5W. Its LED indicator lights up when you're charging. And it costs just $30.
