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The debate over the flexibility of Apple’s new iPhone 6 models hasn’t quite died down just yet, with Consumer Reports seemingly hoping to become the last word on the subject. Our Monday Morning Report also takes a look at Microsoft’s first New York flagship store only a stone’s throw from a rival, while AT&T gets generous with Mobile Share Value data for your new iPhone or iPad. Read on for all the details!
Consumer Reports: iPhone 6 Bending Accusations Overblown
The folks at Consumer Reports have a somewhat checkered track record when it comes to Apple products, but following last week’s hysteria claiming the latest iPhone 6 models are too easy to bend, it was only natural that the watchdogs would try to find out for themselves if those claims are true or false.
As it turns out, the iPhone 6 Plus falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum, succumbing to bending after having 90 pounds of pressure applied during a “three-point flexural test,” while the case began to separate at 110 pounds. That actually compares favorably to the iPhone 6, which began to deform at only 70 pounds, with the case separating at only 100 pounds, contrary to earlier reports that the larger 5.5-inch model was more susceptible to bending.
To help round out the figures, Consumer Reports also stress tested an HTC One (M8), LG G3, iPhone 5, and Samsung Galaxy Note 3, with the last two taking on a full 150 pounds before the case actually separated — and most of the devices actually kept working, even after having such serious damage applied to them.
Microsoft Confirms Flagship Store Near Apple’s NYC Cube
The Wall Street Journal reported Sunday that Microsoft plans to open the company’s first flagship store in Manhattan, and it’s coming to a familiar location only a few blocks from Apple’s iconic glass cube on Fifth Avenue. According to executives, the store at 677 Fifth Avenue — currently occupied by Fendi — has been five years in the making and is best known for housing brands with an international reputation.
“As our first flagship store, it will serve as the centerpiece of our Microsoft Stores experience,” said David Porter, corporate vice president for Microsoft retail stores. “This is a goal we’ve had since day one — we were only waiting for the right location. And now we have it.”
Porter claims the company plans to make the location “much more than just a Microsoft Store” without elaborating on what that might include beyond “experiential space” to engage with customers. Stores along this trendy stretch of Upper Fifth Avenue are said to fetch rent on average of $2,749 per square foot.
AT&T Doubling Mobile Share Value Plan Data Through Oct. 31
AT&T announced Sunday a new promotion that promises to double the amount of data handed out to larger capacity Mobile Share Value plan customers — but they’ll have to sign up before October 31 in order to take advantage of the deal. Available to new and existing subscribers with 15GB and higher plans, the limited-time offer effectively doubles the base data for the same price, while still including the same domestic unlimited talk and text and unlimited international messaging.
For example, a $130-per-month plan which typically includes 15GB of shared data will now come with 30GB, all the way up to 100GB for the $375-per-month 50GB plan. Although customers are required to sign up for the deal by October 31, the more spacious data plan amounts will continue long after the promotional period ends.
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(Image courtesy of Consumer Reports)
