News

BlackBerry's Messenger app was submitted to Apple two weeks ago, according to a Tweet from a developer who worked on the app. It is unknown why the approval process is taking so long since the current approval time for the App Store is 4 to 5 days. Perhaps that is why the Senior Strategic Account Manager at BlackBerry, Alex Kinsella, felt the need to send a tweet.

The popular messaging platform was promised to land on both iOS and Android devices "before the end of this summer," by CEO Thorsten Heins in June. At least iOS users now know that it's not BlackBerry's fault for missing their own deadline.

More images of the iPhone 5S have leaked before Apple is expected to announce the rumored device on Tuesday. This time the alleged photos feature the iPhone 5S packaging. If you look closely at the box, you will notice the redesigned home button and new iOS icons. The iPhone 5S pictured on the package also features the same color-matched wallpapers seen in previous iPhone 5C leaks.

Both the iPhone 5S and iPhone 5C are expected to make their official world debut on September 10. Apple sent out press invites to the event on Tuesday. The invites include the tagline: "This should brighten everyone's day," and feature pictures of colored dots that resemble the redesigned iOS 7 icons. Some tech blogs have speculated that the random grey dots on the invites also hint at the iPhone's new home button with fingerprint sensor.

The Wall Street Journal reports rumors are once again surfacing that Apple is considering plans to introduce iPhones with screens between 4.8 and 6 inches, a significant increase from the current standard of 4 inches. These “phablets” would be a cross between a phone and the larger sized tablets already on the market.

While this is not something Apple is planning to announce this coming Tuesday, insiders are saying it is being considered as the company seeks new opportunities for expansion. The size increase would be the first since the iPhone was introduced in 2007.

PayPal has immersed itself deeper into the mobile payment world by completely redesigning its iOS and Android apps. The company has also sweetened the deal by offering $100 worth of in-store deals to those who choose its app over other mobile payment options.

PayPal's iOS app will begin offering the ability to order ahead at local restaurants and cafes, and will allow independent merchants to offer a line of credit to PayPal users with the new "BillMeLater" option. The app also now features a way to search for local businesses who accept PayPal payments, and a "Pay at Table" tab for viewing and paying your bill at participating restaurants.

Apple is known for having high quality cameras in its flagship smartphone. Now Sony has announced an accessory that could boost iPhone photography even further, the smartphone attachable lens camera. This new concept was leaked several times earlier this year, with photos previewing the devices ahead of Sony's official announcement.

Now the details have been revealed, and two models of lens camera are available for pre-order ahead of shipping on September 28. These all-in-one lens and sensor units clip to any smartphone running the PlayMemories Mobile app, which is currently available for iOS and Android. The smartphone pairs via Wi-Fi to the lens camera, and acts as the camera display and controls.