Who’s really ahead in innovation? Photo: Killian Bell/Cult of Android

In an effort to prevent rivals from stealing its ideas, Apple patents everything it invents — from the iPhone and the iPad, to app icons and even “magic” tactile gloves. But compared to its biggest competitors, Apple’s patent portfolio from 2015 looks surprisingly bare.

Microsoft, Sony, Google, and LG have all outrank Apple in the patent department this year, while arch rival Samsung has absolutely crushed it.

LG Call for Watch Urbane (and only Watch Urbane). Screenshots: Google Play

LG today rolled out a brand new Android Wear app called Call, which allows smartwatch owners to initiate phone calls from their wrist. It’s a useful addition to any wearable, but it has sparked outrage among the Android Wear community, leading to a torrent of 1-star ratings and bad reviews.

Who would do this? Photo: Sony

Sony makes some pretty great smartphones, but the vast majority of consumers — especially those in the U.S. — just aren’t interested in them. But in a new Xperia Z3 ad, the Japanese company hopes to remind us why we shouldn’t ignore its flagship devices.

Vive, HTC’s VR headset. Photo: HTC

If you’re planning to develop games and apps for HTC’s upcoming Vive virtual reality headset, you could be eligible to get one absolutely free. The Taiwanese company is giving away developers kits to selected software makers, and you can apply for yours right now.

LG’s original Android Wear watch doesn’t have Wi-Fi. Photo: Killian Bell/Cult of Android

Google’s latest Android Wear update finally enables Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing your smartwatch to communicate with your phone even when it’s out of Bluetooth range. But not all Wear watches have Wi-Fi built-in.

Users of the LG G Watch and the Asus ZenWatch are among those who are out of luck.