Most of the focus when it comes to smartphone news is on expensive, flagship phones — the latest features and designs are just more interesting subjects. But mid-range phones show how those features percolate down with time, like the recently announced Blu G9 Pro. Specs include an 8-core MediaTek SoC, 4,000mAh wireless and quick charging battery, 128GB of expandable storage, 4GB of RAM, three rear-facing cameras, and a teardrop-notched full HD screen. Set to be $250 later, the company has dropped the price by $50 to celebrate the launch.
Read MoreBLU launches Android 9 Pie beta program for the Vivo XI+
My, my, color me surprised. Looks like Blu, the notorious "manufacturer" of budget Android phones in the U.S., is keeping to its word. Back in August, the company claimed that it was rethinking its product strategy — you know, the one where it spams the market with a lot of devices — and would be focusing on quality and software support going forward. This new philosophy would start with its latest flagship, the Vivo XI+.
Read More[Deal Alert] The Blu Vivo XI is down to just $170 ($50 off) at Best Buy
In August, budget phone maker Blu admitted that its tendency to release tons of devices wasn't the best thing. It committed to releasing fewer but better devices, and announced its new flagship, the Vivo XI+, for $299.99. Somewhat contrary to the company's new less-is-more outlook, they also released a lower-tier version, the (non-plus) XI. That phone is now $50 off its already low normal price of $219.99 at Best Buy, going for just $169.99.
Read MoreBLU promises to stop pumping out shitty phones five times a year, announces the Vivo XI+
There is perhaps no better analogy to describe BLU phones than, "You get what you pay for." While the company's phones are often great values on paper, updates are non-existent and security problems are not unheard of. BLU is now trying to change that, starting with the launch of its new Vivo XI+ flagship.
Read MoreBlu announces the $50 X Link smartwatch with 2G wireless connectivity
Blu is known for selling inexpensive phones that punch above their weight, but the company's new smartwatch seems like a very odd product. The X Link has a 1.1-inch round display, no apps, and 2G wireless connectivity. So, why would you want that? Well, it's only $50.
Read More5 of our favorite tech sales, discounts, and deals this week
You've spent all week slogging away at work, earning that cheddar. Now the weekend is here, and it's time to relax, unwind, and do your own little part to contribute to the grand machinations of capitalism by putting some of that cash back into circulation. Luckily for you, we've been keeping an eye on some of the best tech deals to surface over the past few days. Here are five of our favorites, lined up and ready to make your money stretch just a little bit further.
Read More[Deal Alert] Refurbished Blu phones from Daily Steals for as little as $25 with our exclusive code
Blu might not be the most famed of Android OEMs, but it does make some serviceable budget devices. If you're looking for a dirt cheap phone — maybe as a second burner handset for taking to festivals or something like that — Daily Steals has got some Blu models for as little as $35 right now. With our $10 coupon code that price can come down to just $25.
Read MoreBlu comes to settlement with FTC over misleading privacy claims
Blu has reached a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission over allegations that it afforded Adups, a Chinese device management firm, inordinate access to personally identifiable user information. The FTC's complaint said that Blu misled its customers when the company claimed it had taken appropriate measures to protect user privacy.
Read MoreThe Best Of AP
Blu announces Vivo XL3 and XL3 Plus, but you shouldn't buy them
Blu is best known for its large variety of budget Android phones - some good, some not so good. Today the company announced two new devices - the Vivo XL3 and Vivo XL3 Plus. But unlike most of Blu's lineup, they aren't a good value at all, unless you buy one of them on sale.
Read MoreBLU announces the VIVO X with a MediaTek P25, quad cameras, and 18:9 display for $299
Unsurprisingly, Blu has announced another new phone. The company's latest flagship, the Vivo X ticks almost all of the buzzwords when it comes to smartphones: octa-core CPU, quad cameras, an 18:9 display, and an attractive price point.
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