Google and Samsung catching Apple on in-app revenue generation?

Apple has always had the upper hand when it comes to the monetization of games on its platform. iPhone users tend to spend more on in-app purchases than Android users — part of the reason why it gets favored when it comes to new game releases. The tide may be turning, however, as news from video game analytics and insights company deltaDNA (via VentureBeat) suggests that both Google and Samsung could be catching up.

Google Maps now lets you pick a light or dark scheme when navigating

TL;DR The latest update to Google Maps lets you toggle between a light and dark scheme when navigating. Unfortunately, there is no app-wide dark theme yet. The update also re-arranges the navigation settings screen and adds a few new toggles. With Google integrating dark themes into more and more of its apps, it makes sense for the company to do the same with Google Maps. The latest update to Google’s navigation app now lets you pick a dark scheme, but there is a big caveat.

KingCom Padphone 61 is a 6.1-inch Android ICS phablet for $278

Sure, Huawei managed to eke out an additional inch from the phablet platform with its introduction of the Ascend Mate at CES this January. But even as Huawei is only starting to release its six-incher this month (currently on pre-order at some online retailers), you’d be glad to know that other manufacturers have been adventurous enough to try their luck at a 6.1-inch device, too. And they don’t necessarily have to a major brand like Sony.

Mobo Launcher: Split-screen homescreen launcher for Android

After a while, things can get boring. With variety being the spice of life, switching things up can be fun and refreshing, but just how far can you push the envelope of variety? To make your Android device really your own, Mobo Launcher presents Android users with a variety of options for customization. Developed by Moborobo, Inc., the Mobo Launcher is a powerful new Android launcher that’s not just packed with themes but gives users easy access to their favorite apps and widgets.

Non-Project Fi Nexus phones to get Google’s Wi-Fi Assistant

Google’s Fi wireless service has been around for a while now, and until now, only Project Fi Nexus phones could take advantage of Google’s Wi-Fi Assistant. Wi-Fi Assistant essentially connects your phone to a trusted, stable, and open Wi-Fi network near you. That’s especially handy if you’re in an area where your cell signal or data connection is weak. Project Fi now supports tablets and other data-only devices News The only inconvenience was that you had to have a Fi SIM card, and it was only compatible with the Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, and Nexus 6.

Pebble app store arrives for iOS users, Android version coming soon

Starting as a massively successful Kickstarter campaign, the Pebble is arguably one of the most popular smartwatches available today, but it’s not without it’s shortcomings. In particular, it’s default functionality is rather limited. Up until now, expanding these functions on your Pebble required you  to use third party websites, but the good news is that this is about to change.  As announced alongside the stylish new Pebble Steel at CES 2014, Pebble owners will soon be able to find all of their favorite smartwatch apps and watchfaces in one convenient location, thanks to the new Pebble app store.

Samsung starts Galaxy Note 20 reservations with a $50 instant credit

TL;DR Samsung has opened reservations for the Galaxy Note 20 line. If you reserve now, you’ll get a $50 instant credit toward the smartphone. This might be the best way to get a discount on the phone before it launches. The company has started taking reservations for “the next Galaxy” (read: the Note 20) ahead of Unpacked, and there’s an incentive to sign up early. Reserve between now and August 4 and you’ll get a $50 instant credit toward the smartphone purchase.

Samsung to cut 10 percent of head office staff

Update: Samsung has issued a statement that rules out major workforce cuts at its headquarters, as initially reported in Korea. Instead, Samsung is looking relocated a small portion of its workforce. Samsung did not provide any details about the number of staff that it would be relocating or to where they would be going. Samsung currently employs 320,000 workers worldwide, with around 100,000 of those based in Korea. Approximately 1,000 of those are thought to be managers.

SmartShift Lockscreen: Auto lockscreen personalization according to time or circumstance

The Android home screen not only displays application shortcuts and widgets but also represents the user’s tastes and preferences. In the past few years, manufacturers have also tried to impose their own vision of what a home screen should look and feel like. Some users love them, others hate them, and a select number of users just don’t have anything to say about it. As a user, you may already have decided to inject your personal touch into your Android experience by downloading famous home screen launchers such as GO Launcher Pro, Launcher Pro, or ADX Launcher.

The Pokémon Go update with 100 new creatures could go live this week

Pokémon Go fans have been hearing rumors for weeks that the popular AR app will add 100 new creatures to catch soon. Now, new leaks suggest that big update could happen this week. The game’s developer, Niantic Labs, will also reportedly announce new partnerships with at least two companies in the U.S. this week as well. How to train in Pokemon Go: Everything you need to know Gaming The one thing we know for sure is that Sprint and Niantic plan to make a joint press announcement on Wednesday, December 7 at 11:30 a.