5 smartphone apps that make your photos look better

Smartphone cameras have replaced regular camera. No vacation or moment is complete without memories in the form of pictures. Sometimes some places are so beautiful that you won't need these apps. 

For every other time, we bring you 5 apps that will make your photos look better than normal:

1. Vintique (iOS and Android)




It is a perfect app if you want to apply vintage effects to your photos. This app is a huge success among young generation. This app applies effect in real time and delivers image that you see in preview. You get more than 100 filters and each one of it is distinct and good.

2. Boomerang (iOS and Android)






This app comes from the team behind Instagram. It helps you create mini videos back and forth loop effect. This app captures 10 photos in a burst, stitches them together and removes any glitches to serve you final video.

No sign up is required and you can also use front camera in this app.






3. Fyuse (iOS and Android)






Concept on which this app runs is very unique. It enables you to capture 3D photos of any subject. It requires you to capture images from different angles and with information  from your phone's accelerometer, gravity and sensors it brings the best 3D effect to your pic.











4. Horizon Camera (iOS and Android)




This app is more on videos than on images. It helps you make videos from horizontal angle at all times, no matter the position of your phone. It auto levels your videos so that they are parallel to the ground. Surprisingly, it offers a slow motion feature also.








5. LiveBlend (iOS Only)
What i like about this app is that it is the only app that gives images double exposure in real time. What i don't like is one has to pay Rs. 60 for it.This app lets you capture double exposure videos in full HD resolution.

Morden Men impress women by overeating: Study

Men dating women at absorbingly stunning locations can only go one step further if accompanied by finger licking food at a fashion restaurant or hotel.

Maybe it's due to evolution of men from the era of cavemen or is it a tactic to impress gone wrong but Cornell University researchers have found that men tend to eat significantly more in the presence of fairer sex.

The study says that this behavior could be motivated by a hardwired male urge to demonstrate prowess. It further revealed that men who dine with women consume 86-93% more food than in exclusive company of men.

The important question is "what do women dining with these men think?"

The study found out that these women felt rushed during the meal and that they were the ones who ate much. Strange though!

What do you think about this study? leave comments..

How govt is cheating common public in the name of Swachh Bharat Cess

This diwali government exploded a huge bomb not only on India Inc. but common public as well. In Budget 2015 finance minister made way for levy of Swachh Bharat Cess (SBC) to the extent of max 2% on all or select services. This clearly meant hike in cost of services.

On November 6, 2015 CBEC issued notifications levying SBC to the extent of 0.5% on taxable services from November 15, 2015. On plain reading, it seems a very concerned government as they levied only 0.5% and not 2% but unfortunately, that's not case. Let's see how: 

These notifications issued by CBEC did not provide any clarity on credit admissibility of SBC (credit admissibility is embedded in a tax chain to set off tax paid on input services against tax paid on output services and only tax charged on final leg is received by government). Based on industry representations, few days later, CBEC clarified through a press release and FAQs that 'credit of SBC would not be available'. This announcement has a huge impact. Negative!

No cenvat credit of SBC means this will have a cascading effect - tax on tax effect. Therefore, the effective tax rate will be higher than 14.5% (14% ST + 0.5% SBC). This will eventually hit P&L or be passed on to consumer. In all likelihood, it will be passed on to consumer. On the other hand, government collects much more revenue than it would have had it allowed credit of SBC.

It seems a very smart move of fooling people and generating higher revenue. So, the concerned reduced levy of 0.5% and not 2% is spoiled by inadmissibility of cenvat credit as the ultimate effect could by 2% or higher. All this would eventually bring hike in services costing and taxes applicable on it. Bad days for consumers!

5 simple ways to increase battery life of your smartphone

Most smartphones today carry high resolution, top notch features, premium camera and lots more. This is often not backed by a good battery life. Given the huge sales number of powerbanks is testimony to bad battery life smartphones carry.

1. Go for paid apps, not free apps
Almost all free apps are ad supported and this kills battery life by 2.5 to 2.1 hours on average, a study conducted revealed. To quote the study - a phone's processor is like its brain - and ads eat up a lot of brain power. Thus, slowing it down.

Not all free apps drain your phone's speed. But if you lots of ads on it, its a cause for concern.

2. Turn off Location tracking
Most smartphone users don't realize that lots of apps use location services and have a massive impact on battery drainage. Therefore, turning off location tracking for apps will certainly help in improving battery life.

3. Partial charging is better than full charging
Instead of letting your battery drain to zero and then charge, keeping the depth of discharge between 30%-80% can increase the number of discharge cycles by three times.

4. Play with brightness 
Have often noticed smartphone users keep brightness to max and largely it is due to ignorance. Smartphone sellers max up the brightness to help sell the phone.

A little tweaking with brightness (reducing it) can help increase battery life.

5. Discover flight mode
The phone's distance to a cellular tower is known to affect standby time as well. So, if you are in area with no network coverage, put phone to flight mode. By doing this, your phone will stop looking for tower and thus, battery life can be conserved.

Hope, the aforementioned tips help you save some battery life. In case you have any more tips to share, please comment. 

Djokovic is the best; Federer still fan's favourite

Novac Djokovic - World No.1 tennis player who hails from Serbia has been awarded as the winner of the ATP World Tour No.1  for the second consecutive year. He will receive the award for the fourth time in total.

Numero uno player has won 3 out 4 grand slam tournaments this year - Aussie Open, Wimbledon and US Open.

Meanwhile, Roger Federer has been awarded with the Stefan Edberg sportsmanship award for the eleventh time. He also won fans' favorite award for the 13th straight year.

The world number one and Fedex will now play in the ATP Worl Tour Finals from November 15.

These places are so beautiful that you don't need instagram

Travel and clicking pics is one soul connection (7 must know things if you are a traveller) that will last the travel lifetime. Thereafter, spending time beautifying them through apps like Instagram is now-a-days necessity - trying to look better than real life.

But if you sneak peak into #nofilter on Instagram, you shall come across some of the breath taking locales in the world. These places are so beautiful that putting a filter to them is insane.

A popular site Busbud has done an analysis of over a million pics posted on Instagram and tagged #nofilter and shortlisted top 5 places in the world which need no filter. Here they are:

1. Bahamas

2. Iceland

3. Finland

4. Croatia

5. Canada

Apart from these - Maldives got the most number of likes on its pics with #nofilter post. Lastly, the analysis also found that some pics under #nofilter carried filters. Cheaters.

7 'must know' travel tips for every traveller

Every traveler has some typical traits - some like to travel light and some would just carry more stuff than some people would relocate with. Also, kind of packing prior to travel depends mostly on the part of world you are going to spend next few days in.

Here are 7 tips that can prove to be useful for every traveler:

1. Roll your clothes while packing them instead of folding them or placing them like elephant in the room. Once you do that, the space saved will be jaw dropping. Rolling pressures out air pockets and stretches out wrinkles. Less space, more clothes.

2. Identity documents are of huge importance esp when traveling abroad. Make sure that all your important documents like passport, tickets, bookings etc are saved electronically and is there on your mail. You never know when technology turns out to be your savior.

 

3. Make best use of apps. There are several apps populating on app store these days which help you to learn new language, translate, convert currency, advise on best locations, food joints etc. Pick your app wisely and it would add so much to your trip.

4. Instead of buying a water bottle at airport, carry an empty bottle because you cannot carry water beyond a point. Fill it up after check in and use it. Do your bit for environment.

5. Delete unwanted tourits from your photos with this simple photoshop trick. Click few pictures of same shot with an interval of 10 seconds. Open photoshop, go to File - Scripts - Statistics. Select 'Median' and check 'Attempt to automatically align source images'.

Browse and select your set of pics and click ok. Photoshop with keep only what is static and remove what changes between pics.

6. Carry medicines. Do not leave home without basic set of medicines or any particular medicine if you are suffering from an disease. You never know when you might need them.

7. Home Work. Our teachers taught us in school the significance of home work. It equally applies here also. It is of utmost significance to do basic home work in relation to the destination you are going to/ For e.g. Weather report, political condition etc.


In case you follow a travel tip to share, do comment.

5 New 'Indian' words find space in Oxford Dictionary - 'Arre Yaar', 'Dhaba' included

In India, the dominant language in Hindi and if Indians are spread all across the world, why should their language stay behind.

Looks like Oxford dictionary has recognized this requirement and decided to incorporate few more new words to its larger than life collection. In total, 240 hindi words now exist in this meaning telling giant.

Lets look at 5 new 'Hindi' words to make a mark in the global arena.

1. 'Arre Yaar'

The oxford dictionary has made way for this Indian desi slang to mean from 'Hey Buddy' to 'You got to be kidding me'. Could 'arre yaar' be the next 'Hey Bro'?

2. Bhel Puri

Bhel Puri is an Indian street food (falls under snacks). It is a mix of fenugreek, onions, tomatoes sprinkled with lemon. The mixture is stirred before serving. Bhel puri has found super love in various markets across globe. May be that is why it made way to oxford dictionary.

3. Papad

Papad is a very unique dish of its kind. It is found in many varieties across India. It also has different names and carry different ingredients across nation. One of the varieties is made with chick pea and tapioca mixed with black flour dipped in dough with peanut oil.

4. Churidar

We move from food to apparels. Churidar is pre-dominantly a women oriented dress commonly known as tight fitting trouser kind. Women complete the dressing by wearing a kameez along with it.

5. Dhaba

It  is astonishing to find this word enter oxford dictionary. I say so because this word has a rags to riches story like a self made businessman. Word 'Dhaba' grew from the villages of punjab where eateries on highways opened 24*7 providing local cuisine. The word then grew in popularity as some restaurants adopted this name. Now, it has found global appeal.


The way Indian desi words are making way into oxford dictionary, i am sure of a day when a separate module for Indian desi words will be launch. In my next blog, will write on some desi words that should also knock Oxford's gate. Would love to hear your suggestions in comments.

Beautiful? Open Mind like a Porn Star? Alibaba has a vacancy for you!

You might have read several job descriptions, you might have been asked for best of degrees but this one is way beyond imagination. Also, there are several ways to attract talent in the world, this one is more abnormal than two women sitting quiet next to each other. ;)

World's biggest e-commerce giant alibaba had a very weird open position for the post of 'programmer encouragement specialist'. This position's JD read as:

- Possessing beauty that exceeds nature

- Being open minded like porn star Sora Aoi (high probability that guys would stop reading this article now and google 'Sora Aoi' :D)

- Flattering and complimenting colleagues

- Waking up programmers for morning meetings

- Exciting your colleagues


This might interest you - 3 things girls like about guys

I am sure you are stunned and shocked to read this and accept the fact that someone actually wrote the aforementioned as JD. While you may see the humor side of it, fact of the matter is that it is totally unacceptable and this would malign the image of a women.

Recommended Read: What is Net neutrality?

Talking to Quartz, Alibaba spokesperson said "The ad was intended to be an attempt at humorous marketing to recruit IT talent. We apologize to anyone affected and we have taken it down'.

Currently, Alibaba is still holding this position open without referring to porn star thing.

Top 10 Bollywood Dialogues We Absolutely Love!

What is Net Neutrality?

The generation we belong to and the era we live in, one thing that is significant almost at par with oxygen is internet. In such times, ban or monetization of what you can read and write on world wide web (www) is not a fair deal.

This is what gives berth to net neutrality. Unfortunately, most of us are not aware of what is happening with internet and why should we care about it.

So, What is Net Neutrality?

Net Neutrality is where the internet service provider (ISP) serves you data plans without getting to choose how you use the data. The deal is that ISP should not, in any manner, be able to control usage of your data plan.

Now, you would think that this how it happens as on date - so what's the fuss about?

The fuss is that ISPs i.e. telecom companies are trying to change this. Anti net neutrality plans are being set up by ISPs to control the usage of consumers fearing that they will slowly loose existence. Already, the have lost messaging to likes of Whatsapp, Hike and Viber.

The next Question is - Is it not illegal?

Good thought! but unfortunately, as on date it is not illegal. The telecom authority in India is being lobbied by telecom companies to allow them to make money by controlling the way consumers use internet.

Any guesses who started this fuss?  Ans- Airtel

It started when Airtel tried to charge higher tariffs for phone calls made through Viber/ Skype etc. This received lot of criticism from public and Airtel had to withdraw this move.

Currently, Indian government and telecom companies are in talks and what will happen remains to be seen. As general public, we should voice our opinion on any and every platform.


In case you still have doubts over what are we trying to say, we try to explain you better in the pic below:

Why Dogs chase Cars?

Some dogs, probably most, like chasing fast moving vehicles. Some dogs are so eager to chase that they wait in line to chase a car passing by, I always wonder what fun Dogs derive by chasing car and that too unsuccessfully.

Then the most common synonym girls like using for guys is 'Dogs' and not so committed guys are often compared to 'gods who chase car even when they know they can't sit in it'.

While men wear a brave smile while being all ears to allegations, let's see why to dogs actually chase cars?

Recommended Read: How a beggar turned Millionaire?

As per a recent study, dogs have a natural tendency of a prey drive - hunting. Hunting here does not mean killing or hurting but participate. It is as good as when dogs chase after a thrown ball or a flown Frisbee.

In most socialized dogs, tendency to chase cars is less as these dogs may play-fight as part of the game of tag, lunging or even snapping playfully with their owners. While naturally dogs don't intend to hurt, they might possess predatory aggression instincts that one should stay beware of.

Top 5 richest cricketers in the World

While cricket is madly loved in countries like India, Australia and West Indies, one thing is for sure that the salaries and money cricketers make is not as much as footballers. Having said that, cricketers are no far behind and they make a fortune for themselves.

We decided to take a look at who's who of money making in cricketing industry and here are top 5 richest cricketers in the world (yes, we did not include retired cricketers):

1. Mahendra Singh Dhoni

In case you are surprised to see this name top the list - You have no clue about cricket. Current Indian ODI captain is favorite of sponsors in India.

Salary - $3.5 Million

Net Worth - $ 65 Million

Main sponsors - Reebok, Pepsi and Sony

2. Virat Kohli

The current Indian ODI vice captain and Test captain is having a good time with sponsors chasing him.

Salary - $3.1 Million

Net Worth - $ 46 Million

Sponsors - Pepsi, Nike, Toyota, Head & Shoulder

Recommended Read: how to make best use of hashtag

3. Shane Watson

Australian all-rounder seems to have made a mark with some gritty and determined performances. 

Salary - $4.0 Million

Net Worth - $ 40 Million

Sponsors - Gunn & Moore, Asics, TAG Heuer

4. Rohit Sharma

The Indian batting sensation is making news for good reasons and that is helping him fetch good deals.

Salary - $2.0 Million

Net Worth - $ 36 Million

Sponsors - MRF

5. Chris Gayle

He travels the world like a freelancer batsman and plays in almost all T-20 leagues. 

Salary - $2.0 Million

Net Worth - $ 30 Million

Sponsors - Pepsi, Royal Challenge

The 4 Best Fashion Hotels In The World

Designer and clothes are often talked together, designer and accessories also go hand in hand. But ever wondered Designer and hotels? Now, you must be thinking - Big Deal!

How about - eating, sleeping and partying with haute couture with Armani, Bulgari and Versace's hospitality ventures.World's best designers knocked the door of hotel industry and what they offer is a luxurious living with the most expensive clothing from their range.

And they call it Fashion Hotel! We bring you 5 best fashion hotels in the world:

1. Armani Hotel, Dubai 
The Armani hotel is located in world's tallest tower - Burj Khalifa and needless to mention that entire interior job has been done by Mr. Armani, himself. This hotel has 8 restaurants offering India, Japanese, Mexican and various other cuisines.

2. Bulgari Hotel, Bali

Bulgari hotel's theme is villa based - 59 villa property. It is part of world's most exotic and eluded places. 1300 sq/m villa with 20m long swimming pool dedicated only to you, the villa makes you feel royal. And, you also get a private butler! Now - perfect king and queen feel.

Recommended Read - 10 most expensive movie ever made

3. Dolce & Gabbana Gold Restaurant, Milan

This restaurant is divided into bistro, coffee room, cocktail bar and a private room on the first floor. The walls make you feel part of renaissance era and if that does not lend you feel, Kim Kardashian is a regular here.

4. Palazzo Versace, Gold Coast

This luxurious hotel offers you the most stunning view of gold coast from your private terrace and you may also choose to have your private marina and discover the pacific ocean.

Recommended Read - top 7 classiest quotes for Robert Downey Jr.!

Top 7 classiest quotes from Robert Downey Jr.!

Classy, witty and it synonyms are the words that bombard your mind when you think of Iron Man a.k.a Robert Downey Jr. Born in Manhattan, he is one of highest paid actors of Hollywood today.

Apart from his incredibly solid acting in movies, he is loved for his one-liners proved time and again in his interviews. Here are his top 7 classiest quotes in pics:

Comment to let us know, which quote you like most or if we missed any of his amazing quote.

Check out how many of his movies fall in top 10 expensive movies of all time

10 Most Expensive Movies Made Ever

Its that time of the decade when producers don't mind spending too much on the actors, sets and location. FX in the movies have a great role to play, which costs few millions. Moviegoers have the tendency to get attracted to films with big budget.

While big budgets don't guarantee success, what they ensure is - tons of publicity! Most of the big budget movies are recent ones. Here are the 10 most expensive movies ever made:

#10 - Pirates of Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest ($222 Million)

This edition of the Pirates became the fastest movie in the history to reach $1 billion worldwide at the box office. It also explained exactly what Davy Jones's locker was, since a lot of us didn't know.

#9 - Man of Steel ($225 Million)

Superman returned to foray in 2006 in the form of 'Superman Returns'. The film got mixed reviews but that did not stop movie from earning more than three times its cost - it made $670 Million worldwide.

#8 - The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian ($225 Million)

This movie made you think, why? why on the earth was so much money wasted? Despite the huge disappointment, this movie made $420 Million. This movie was followed by video games on it and they were as bad.

#7 - The Dark Knight Rises ($230 Million)

Batman series has million of fans globally and the latest part of series was made under a huge budget was not surprising at all. 'Joker' was certainly missed in this part after his rocking performance in second part.

Recommended Read: Story of China's richest women at the age of 25

#6 - Avatar ($240 Million)

This movie saw astounding success and made its director James Cameron a superstar. In case you forgot, this guy directed 'Titanic' also. Avatar was less of acting and more of special effects which made it collected $2.78 Billion

#5 - John Carter ($250 Million).

                      

Sometimes you spend a lot only to get disappointment. This movie was a big flop in US as it managed to make only $73 Million. It's global collection totaled to $211 Million resulting in losses for the producers and distributors.

#4 - Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince ($250 Million)

By the time this movie released, fan following of Harry Potter was on its epitome. The sixth movie in the series managed to take advantage of it and made $930 Million. I know, you also contributed to that big big amount, thanks to good reviews!

#3 - Tangled ($258 Million)

Disney and princesses go back a long way and the latest revelation was 'Tangled' in 2010. While the movie made only $200 Million is US, it made $600 worldwide. It gave Disney wings to invest huge in 'Frozen'.

#2 - Spiderman 3 ($260 Million)

The epic and most loved series of Spiderman saw tremendous love from its fan. The love made producers spend a fortune in giving this movie everything one can offer. Don't be astonished to know that this movie made $890 Million worldwide.

#1 - Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End ($310 Million)

The only movie in the history of movies to be made over a budget that extended beyond $300 Million. Shocking!  Disney went all out with promotions and marketing before the release. How did that help?

With the mixed reviews, if movie made $936 Million worldwide, you know what worked for it!

Recommended Read: How to find your parked car using Google