According to a report in the Chinese language Commercial Times, institutional investors in Taiwan have been quoted as saying that China's Foxconn has landed the contract to build the 3G iPhone, and that it will start production in May of 3 million units for the 3G iPhone's June launch. Translated excerpts from the story are available at the DigitTimes website.
The report goes on to state that Foxconn is expecting to build anywhere from 24 to 25 million 3G iPhones during the cellphone's production run. While these are still little more than rumors, Foxconn does happen to be the sole manufacturer of the current iPhone, and many analysts do believe that the 3G iPhone will be launched at Apple's developer's conference (WWDC 2008) in June.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Nokia Offers Up Three New Mid-Range Handsets
Nokia introduced a trio of new phones today. All are quad-band GSM/EDGE and run the Series 40 platform. They each have an FM radio, Bluetooth and slots for microSD cards. All three will be available in the third quarter.
6600 Fold: Similar to the 6555, the 6600 Fold creates a single contour when opened. The front panel features a hidden display that wakes up if you tap the surface of the phone twice. It will then reveal message alerts and other info. Tapping it twice will also put it back to sleep and silence alerts or reject calls. It adds 850/2100 dual-band WCDMA and is compatible with video calling services. It has a 2 megapixel camera and can shoot VGA video. It will cost $430.
6600 Slide: The Slide also includes the double-tapping feature and dual-band WCDMA, but boosts the camera up to 3.2 megapixels and includes a 2 LED flash. It comes preloaded with Nokia Maps, and has a 2.2 inch QVGA display. It will cost $390.
3600 Slide: The 3600 keeps the 3.2 megapixel camera with flash, and adds autofocus for better image capturing. It also adds background noise cancellation--a first for Nokia--but drops the 3G radios altogether. It comes with the Opera Mini browser and also has a TV out jack. It will cost $275.
6600 Fold: Similar to the 6555, the 6600 Fold creates a single contour when opened. The front panel features a hidden display that wakes up if you tap the surface of the phone twice. It will then reveal message alerts and other info. Tapping it twice will also put it back to sleep and silence alerts or reject calls. It adds 850/2100 dual-band WCDMA and is compatible with video calling services. It has a 2 megapixel camera and can shoot VGA video. It will cost $430.
6600 Slide: The Slide also includes the double-tapping feature and dual-band WCDMA, but boosts the camera up to 3.2 megapixels and includes a 2 LED flash. It comes preloaded with Nokia Maps, and has a 2.2 inch QVGA display. It will cost $390.
3600 Slide: The 3600 keeps the 3.2 megapixel camera with flash, and adds autofocus for better image capturing. It also adds background noise cancellation--a first for Nokia--but drops the 3G radios altogether. It comes with the Opera Mini browser and also has a TV out jack. It will cost $275.
FCC Reveals Casio's Boulder
The latest G'zOne phone from Casio is called the Boulder. According to the FCC documents, this ruggedized clamshell will offer EVDO wireless data and Bluetooth. Not much else can be determined at this time, but the G'zOne line of phones is sold by Verizon Wireless.
AT&T Inks Femtocell Deal, Sets Trial for Later This Year
AT&T Mobility has signed a deal with U.K.-based ip.access Ltd., which will provide it with up to 7 million femtocells that AT&T hopes to sell to its customers. The deal is worth a reported $500 million, and could allow AT&T to sell the femotcells for as little as $100 each. Femtocells provide indoor areas, such as homes or businesses, with better cellular signal coverage. They act similar to Wi-Fi hotspots, and transmit calls or data sessions through a user's broadband internet connection, rather than via the operator's network. An AT&T spokesperson said the company will trial the technology later this year.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Apple Buys Microprocessor Company
Apple has purchased PA Semi for a sum of $278 million in cash. PA Semi designs low-power microprocessors that could end up in products such as the iPhone. Apple would not comment on the reason for its purchase, but Intel has been attempting to convince Apple to use its Atom microprocessors in its mobile devices. This purchase will allow Apple to keep chip design for future generations of the iPhone in-house.
Sony Ericsson Announces Tri-Band HSDPA Flip
Today Sony Ericsson announced two new phones. The Z780 and the G502 both have HSDPA for high-speed data and support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync email. They share a bevy of entertainment features, including 2 megapixel cameras with video record, FM radios, stereo Bluetooth, 3D games and other web 2.0 tools. The also have the Access NetFront web browser, pre-loaded Google Maps, and a built-in RSS reader. Both support Memory Stick Micro expanded storage cards and will be available in select markets starting in the second quarter.
Z780: This clamshell is similar to the Z770, but has tri-band 850/1900/2100 HSDPA and quad-band GSM/EDGE radios. It has built-in aGPS to use with the Google Maps application, and can make video calls (if supported by network operator). It is meant for markets outside of Europe, and is compatible with AT&T's 3G network in the U.S.
G502: This is a single-band 2100 MHz HSDPA and tri-band 900/1800/1900 GSM/EDGE bar-style phone. It shares most features with the Z780, but loses the aGPS and video calling.
Z780: This clamshell is similar to the Z770, but has tri-band 850/1900/2100 HSDPA and quad-band GSM/EDGE radios. It has built-in aGPS to use with the Google Maps application, and can make video calls (if supported by network operator). It is meant for markets outside of Europe, and is compatible with AT&T's 3G network in the U.S.
G502: This is a single-band 2100 MHz HSDPA and tri-band 900/1800/1900 GSM/EDGE bar-style phone. It shares most features with the Z780, but loses the aGPS and video calling.
Samsung Head Resigns Amid Tax Scandal
Lee Kun-hee, the leader of Samsung Group for the past 20 years, has given up his post in light of his recent indictment on tax evasion and breach of trust charges. Lee's son, Jae-yong, will also step down. Samsung said it is dissolving its strategic planning office, which didn't offer enough visibility into the inner workings of Korea's largest company. Samsung is going to give its management more autonomy and end a cross-shareholding arrangement that consolidated Lee's power over the entire company. Lee's family, however, will still retain ownership of Samsung Group.
Water to Power Samsung Phones By 2010
Samsung engineers have created a new process that will allow ordinary tap water to provide the electrical power for mobile phones. Water stored in the phone will contact a metal plate. The reaction between the plate and water will create hydrogen gas. The hydrogen gas is then funneled into a fuel cell, where it will further react with oxygen to create electrical power. Because the reactions can generate up to three watts of power, these water-based fuel cells will be powerful enough to be used in devices such as mobile phones. Current versions of the fuel cell can provide power for about 10 hours, and the metal cartridge needs to be replaced about once every five days. Future generations of this technology will not require the cartridges to be changed. Users will be able to fill their phones with water and get power.
Samsung U900 Soul Released on O2 - New Soul from Samsung
Apr 27, 2008 - The latest Samsung mobile phone release has now found a second UK network, the Samsung U900 Soul has now been made available on the O2 network in the UK. This expands the volume of tariffs available to consumers making it a far easier prospect to get the right package when buying the new Samsung Soul.
Originally released on T-Mobile, the Samsung U900 Soul is not only the latest release from the manufacturer but is also the highest specification handset from the Samsung Ultra range.
The Ultra range includes the likes of the U600 and U700 phone models, all of which have a specific Ultra name aswell as their model number, as an example the U600 is aso known as the Ultra Edition 10.9. The numbers relate to the overall thickness of the handset - the new U900 Soul is part of the 12.9 range and so is also known as the Samsung U900 Soul Ultra 12.9 edition.
The Samsung U900 Soul is the ultimate handset from the Ultra Edition range. It blends design and technology, creating a fashionable phone that's also well-featured.
It's a stunning-looking sliderphone, encased in its tough metallic casing the pictures you see online don't really do it justice. It's technologically advanced too. The 5 megapixel camera has features such as face detection, image stabiliser and Wide Dynamic Range. There's also a secondary camera for making 3G video calls.
The icons on the touch-sensitive navigation panel change intuitively according to the functions you're using. This makes it very easy to select items from the phone's menu. For example, when using the 5 megapixel camera, you'll be able to control zoom and brightness from the touch-sensitive panel. There's also a standard slide out keypad.
The Samsung Soul has 3G and HSDPA for high speed downloads and web access. There's a built-in FM radio and an MP3 music player that boasts a digital power amp designed by Bang and Olufsen.
Although the Samsung U900 Soul is only currently available on the T-Mobile and O2 networks there are further plans to rollout the handset onto other operators aswell as the Pay As You Go service and possibly even as a SIM free, unlocked mobile phone.
As the highest specification Samsung phone from the Samsung Ultra range to date the Samsung U900 Soul does not have a great deal of competition from other mobile phones at present, having said that there are plenty more 5.0 megapixel mobile phones on the way so consumers decisions will inevitably become harder over time.
Originally released on T-Mobile, the Samsung U900 Soul is not only the latest release from the manufacturer but is also the highest specification handset from the Samsung Ultra range.
The Ultra range includes the likes of the U600 and U700 phone models, all of which have a specific Ultra name aswell as their model number, as an example the U600 is aso known as the Ultra Edition 10.9. The numbers relate to the overall thickness of the handset - the new U900 Soul is part of the 12.9 range and so is also known as the Samsung U900 Soul Ultra 12.9 edition.
The Samsung U900 Soul is the ultimate handset from the Ultra Edition range. It blends design and technology, creating a fashionable phone that's also well-featured.
It's a stunning-looking sliderphone, encased in its tough metallic casing the pictures you see online don't really do it justice. It's technologically advanced too. The 5 megapixel camera has features such as face detection, image stabiliser and Wide Dynamic Range. There's also a secondary camera for making 3G video calls.
The icons on the touch-sensitive navigation panel change intuitively according to the functions you're using. This makes it very easy to select items from the phone's menu. For example, when using the 5 megapixel camera, you'll be able to control zoom and brightness from the touch-sensitive panel. There's also a standard slide out keypad.
The Samsung Soul has 3G and HSDPA for high speed downloads and web access. There's a built-in FM radio and an MP3 music player that boasts a digital power amp designed by Bang and Olufsen.
Although the Samsung U900 Soul is only currently available on the T-Mobile and O2 networks there are further plans to rollout the handset onto other operators aswell as the Pay As You Go service and possibly even as a SIM free, unlocked mobile phone.
As the highest specification Samsung phone from the Samsung Ultra range to date the Samsung U900 Soul does not have a great deal of competition from other mobile phones at present, having said that there are plenty more 5.0 megapixel mobile phones on the way so consumers decisions will inevitably become harder over time.
Motorola ROKR E8 "new release"
Motorola's ROKR E8 is released today April 28 and retailing at Upnext Wireless stores at $399.99 retail, a device known in the rumor mills as the "morphing phone" due to its unique touch keypad technology. While still photos and video will never be able to show you how truly amazing the localized haptic feedback that the keypad uses really is, you will just have to believe us that it really feels like the glass surface of the phone is being pressed inward. It's all smoke and mirrors, though, but what wonderful smoke and mirrors it is.
Beyond the haptics in the keypad, the E8's cool multi layer keypad icons change the look of the keypad to suit the task at hand. In the video clip below you will clearly be able to see the keypad morph from normal alphanumeric mode to music mode and camera mode. It has all of the plusses of a normal touch screen display, but with a superior look and a great haptic feel.
Other highlights of the device include 2GB of built-in storage, in addition to a microSD card slot, and the new speed scroll wheel that lets users navigate quickly through long lists and menus. The ROKR E8 looks like it might just be the phone to beat at CES this year. It is very impressive.
Beyond the haptics in the keypad, the E8's cool multi layer keypad icons change the look of the keypad to suit the task at hand. In the video clip below you will clearly be able to see the keypad morph from normal alphanumeric mode to music mode and camera mode. It has all of the plusses of a normal touch screen display, but with a superior look and a great haptic feel.
Other highlights of the device include 2GB of built-in storage, in addition to a microSD card slot, and the new speed scroll wheel that lets users navigate quickly through long lists and menus. The ROKR E8 looks like it might just be the phone to beat at CES this year. It is very impressive.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Tag Heuer name their phone Meridiist
After numerous recent rumors, the Tag Heuer luxurious mobile phone is finally officially announced. The oddly named Tag Heuer Meridiist is a high-roller fashionable handset and a perfect match of the Swiss-made Tag Heuer timepieces.
We must admit that its name sounds noble, but it's awfully hard to spell (maybe we should type it wrong intentionally just for the sake of scoring high on the inevitably numerous wrong Google searches, hehe). But we digress.
The Tag Heuer Meridiist mobile phone is made from watch-making stainless steel and has two unscratchable 60.5 carat sapphire crystal displays. The most notable achievement about the Meridiist is probably its battery life - besides 7 hours of talk time it is said to offer almost unmatched standby time of 672 hours (or 28 days). We wonder how it would manage to achieve those numbers.
The Tag Heuer Meridiist is armed with a 2 megapixel camera, a primary 1.9-inch display with QVGA resolution and a secondary OLED one with a resolution of 96 x 76 pixels. The secondary display is rather unusually placed on top of the device and is used for displaying the time (with Swiss precision, you can bet) and your incoming call ID.
The Tag Heuer Meridiist will also be available in several modifications of the back panel - leather, steel, plastic, etc. It's obviously not a feature-packed handset, but instead a piece of luxury - and as such it might just snatch some of the scarce Vertu market.
Now it might be interesting for you to know that the actual manufacturer of the device is a French company called Modelabs. They are also the manufacturer of the Levi's phone, which you might have seen.
We must admit that its name sounds noble, but it's awfully hard to spell (maybe we should type it wrong intentionally just for the sake of scoring high on the inevitably numerous wrong Google searches, hehe). But we digress.
The Tag Heuer Meridiist mobile phone is made from watch-making stainless steel and has two unscratchable 60.5 carat sapphire crystal displays. The most notable achievement about the Meridiist is probably its battery life - besides 7 hours of talk time it is said to offer almost unmatched standby time of 672 hours (or 28 days). We wonder how it would manage to achieve those numbers.
The Tag Heuer Meridiist is armed with a 2 megapixel camera, a primary 1.9-inch display with QVGA resolution and a secondary OLED one with a resolution of 96 x 76 pixels. The secondary display is rather unusually placed on top of the device and is used for displaying the time (with Swiss precision, you can bet) and your incoming call ID.
The Tag Heuer Meridiist will also be available in several modifications of the back panel - leather, steel, plastic, etc. It's obviously not a feature-packed handset, but instead a piece of luxury - and as such it might just snatch some of the scarce Vertu market.
Now it might be interesting for you to know that the actual manufacturer of the device is a French company called Modelabs. They are also the manufacturer of the Levi's phone, which you might have seen.
Motorola Stirs Up Handset Business
Following news of Motorola's plans to split itself into two separate companies, today Motorola reorganized the structure of its internal cell phone units. From now on, hardware and software teams working on the same platform will work side by side in the same unit, rather than separately. Since there was a lot of overlap, Motorola combined its mid- to high-tier phones and multimedia phones into one unit. It also promoted certain executives and gave them more direct control of their units in an attempt to help Motorola develop products more quickly and respond better to customer input.
Samsung's Chairman Indicted on Tax Charges
The Chairman of Samsung, Lee Kun-hee, was indicted on charges of tax evasion and breach of trust. South Korean lawmakers cleared him of a more serious charge of bribery. These charges conclude a four-month investigation into the leader of Korea's biggest corporation. Nine other high-ranking executives at Samsung were also charged.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Verizon XV6900 (HTC Touch) Ships Today
Today Verizon Wireless officially starts offering the XV6900, a device known to most of the rest of the world as the famed HTC Touch. In a press release sent to us today, Verizon confirmed that the XV6900 was to go on sale on the company's website. On top of that, the press release also lists out a fairly complete spec sheet for the device, which appears to show at least one major upgrade from the version of the Touch that is sold by other carriers.
The press release, which is slated to go across the wire later this morning, states that the XV6900 has a 2 megapixel camera with auto-focus. Auto-focus is something that previous version of the Touch have lacked. The specs also state that the XV6900 has 256MB of internal flash storage and 128MB of RAM, which is far better than what was offered by the GSM version of the original Touch. Verizon also appears to be offering an 1880mAh extended battery for its XV6900 that should increase battery life by about 70% when compared to the standard battery, though it is unclear at this time if the extended battery is included in the retail package or is merely an available option.
[Update: There is no auto-focus in the device, the press release was inaccurate. -editor]
In any event, the EV-DO capable XV6900 will be available starting today for US$349.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate when purchased with a new two year agreement. An additional $100 can be saved if a qualifying voice and data plan is linked to the device.
The press release, which is slated to go across the wire later this morning, states that the XV6900 has a 2 megapixel camera with auto-focus. Auto-focus is something that previous version of the Touch have lacked. The specs also state that the XV6900 has 256MB of internal flash storage and 128MB of RAM, which is far better than what was offered by the GSM version of the original Touch. Verizon also appears to be offering an 1880mAh extended battery for its XV6900 that should increase battery life by about 70% when compared to the standard battery, though it is unclear at this time if the extended battery is included in the retail package or is merely an available option.
[Update: There is no auto-focus in the device, the press release was inaccurate. -editor]
In any event, the EV-DO capable XV6900 will be available starting today for US$349.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate when purchased with a new two year agreement. An additional $100 can be saved if a qualifying voice and data plan is linked to the device.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
LG KF510 review: Shinier than Shine
It is quite obvious that sleek looks and youthful appeal are very high on the LG list of priorities recently. Just as we gave you the flamboyant LG KF600, LG KF510 makes us wonder how much sweeter Chocolate can get. Undoubtedly of the same bloodline, the two handsets take a different approach to full touch navigation with InteractPad and Touch Lighting. The rest of the ammo is basically the same. The really sleek metallic finish and bigger 2.2" display (no InteractPad to shrink the screen) are the LG KF510 major assets. The ultra slim slider has the looks and handling to get us exited, so let's get rolling.Touchpad navigation just for the sake of having it runs a serious risk of failure. LG sure did know that and they seem to have a good enough background to step on. Plus, the steady improvements of user interface are a more than welcome effort. Nice and easy handling is notably gaining momentum with LG devices and the KF510 is surely another small step forward.
Apple iPhone 8GB gets a price cut in UK
The highly controversial Apple iPhone is finally getting a more reasonable price of GBP 169 instead of the original GBP 269. O2 UK and Carphone Warehouse who exclusively sell the iPhone in UK will be also giving GBP 100 vouchers to customers who have bought the iPhone in the last 30 days.
The new price cut of GBP 100 (valid as of today) actually makes the European version of the iPhone less expensive than the US counterpart - the price tag pf GBP 169 translates into something roughly around $330, while the US 8GB version still costs $399 before taxes.
The price drop actually makes us wonder whether O2 UK is having problems with selling their legit iPhones. Nevertheless, it's not sure whether this step will tame the black market of unlocked iPhones imported from the USA. After all, to get an O2 iPhone you have to sign a long-term contract with O2.
While the iPhone 8GB gets its numbers slashed, the price of the 16GB iPhone version remains unchanged at GBP 329.
This move from O2 opens doors to even more rumors about the expected announcement of a 3G iPhone in June 2008. The new 3G iPhone is rumored to even boast a 32GB version. We are yet to see about that though.
The new price cut of GBP 100 (valid as of today) actually makes the European version of the iPhone less expensive than the US counterpart - the price tag pf GBP 169 translates into something roughly around $330, while the US 8GB version still costs $399 before taxes.
The price drop actually makes us wonder whether O2 UK is having problems with selling their legit iPhones. Nevertheless, it's not sure whether this step will tame the black market of unlocked iPhones imported from the USA. After all, to get an O2 iPhone you have to sign a long-term contract with O2.
While the iPhone 8GB gets its numbers slashed, the price of the 16GB iPhone version remains unchanged at GBP 329.
This move from O2 opens doors to even more rumors about the expected announcement of a 3G iPhone in June 2008. The new 3G iPhone is rumored to even boast a 32GB version. We are yet to see about that though.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Nokia Taps Into NFC for Latest Phone
Today Nokia announced the 6212 Classic, a bar-style phone that incorporates near-field communications technology for mobile payment services. Users of the 6212 Classic will be able to initiate instant data transfers for information such as web links, audio files, pictures, or contact data simply by tapping the phone against objects with embedded NFC tags. It can also be used as a ticket for travel as well as instant payments if credit card information is stored on the phone. The 6212 is a 3G phone, but will only support European and Asia 3G networks. It also has a 2 megapixel camera, FM radio and a microSD slot that is compatible with cards up to 4GB. It will be available in certain European and Asian markets in the third quarter of the year for $320.
Microsoft Uses Danger to Form New Mobile Team
Microsoft completed its acquisition of Danger today, and said that it will use the company's know-how in client software to power Microsoft's new Premium Mobile Experiences (PMX) division. PMX will be a subgroup of Microsoft's Mobile Communications Business. Danger co-founders Matt Hershenson and Joe Britt will stay with Danger/PMX, which Microsoft will use to target mobile products and services for consumers.
Sony Ericsson C702 review: Allroad Cyber-shot
The Sony Ericsson Cyber-shot family welcomed two new members in February. We already gave you a glimpse of the 5-megapixel C902, and now junior has the stage all to itself in our Sony Ericsson C702 review. The two sharpshooters clearly have different targets. The yummy camera features like Auto Rotate, BestPic and Photo Flash, along with the TV Out, were obviously reserved for the 5MP Cyber-shot C902. Sony Ericsson C702 on the other hand is keen to impress with GPS and splash and dust resistance. Its 3-megapixel camera takes advantage of geotagging, and features face detection, red-eye reduction, autofocus and dual LED.
The C702 also bundles up HSDPA 3.6 Mbps, FM radio with RDS, Media center, Bluetooth v2.0 with A2DP and the respectable 160MB of built-in memory.
The C702 also bundles up HSDPA 3.6 Mbps, FM radio with RDS, Media center, Bluetooth v2.0 with A2DP and the respectable 160MB of built-in memory.
Sony Ericsson W760 review: Walkman meets GPS
Sony Ericsson W760 made a name for being the first Sony Ericson phone to offer an integrated GPS receiver. With a large QVGA display, stereo speakers, Media Center and the 3 megapixel camera on top, the W760 packs a nice punch. It's an exciting slider that may look no-thrills on the outside, but has all the prospects of becoming a bestseller.
Expected in Q2 2008 Sony Ericsson W760 may as well make this summer hotter. It's got nearly all the high-end Walkman stuff. Right from the very first moment we saw it, we were struck by the resemblance to Sony Ericsson W850. Both handsets share pretty much the same size, form factor and market positioning, so we think it's a safe bet the W760 is the true successor of W850, bringing the best of the Walkman range to the current Sony Ericsson lineup.
For starters, the W760 takes advantage of the proprietary Sony Ericsson Media Center enabling users to organize and enjoy all their multimedia files, be it music, video, photos, games or streaming content such as YouTube. The Sony Ericsson Media Center offers ease-of-use and rich functionality unmatched by current feature phones on the market.
The user experience with the Media Center is further enhanced by the built-in accelerometer that enables screen auto rotation, as well as Shake control. Speaking of multimedia, the W760 packs in the latest Walkman 3.0 player and even supports the SensMe mood recognition feature that allows creating playlists based on mood and tempo.
On top of that, you also get the benefit of the integrated GPS receiver - you can use it to geotag your photos, work out with the Tracker fitness application or use turn-by-turn navigation and Points of Interest search.
Sony Ericsson W760 will be available in three different color versions: Rocky Silver, Fancy Red, and Intense Black. We had the grey/silver one for a review. A definite thumbs-up for the 1GB memory card in the retail package, though we've seen Walkmans ship with 2-gig cards.
For starters, the W760 takes advantage of the proprietary Sony Ericsson Media Center enabling users to organize and enjoy all their multimedia files, be it music, video, photos, games or streaming content such as YouTube. The Sony Ericsson Media Center offers ease-of-use and rich functionality unmatched by current feature phones on the market.
The user experience with the Media Center is further enhanced by the built-in accelerometer that enables screen auto rotation, as well as Shake control. Speaking of multimedia, the W760 packs in the latest Walkman 3.0 player and even supports the SensMe mood recognition feature that allows creating playlists based on mood and tempo.
On top of that, you also get the benefit of the integrated GPS receiver - you can use it to geotag your photos, work out with the Tracker fitness application or use turn-by-turn navigation and Points of Interest search.
Sony Ericsson W760 will be available in three different color versions: Rocky Silver, Fancy Red, and Intense Black. We had the grey/silver one for a review. A definite thumbs-up for the 1GB memory card in the retail package, though we've seen Walkmans ship with 2-gig cards.
Samsung F480 review: Touchdown!
To pick up where we left, prepare to meet the next bestseller by Samsung. If you think Samsung F480 is not up to such a challenge you might want to think again. The compact touch-operated handset has every chance of becoming the next best thing since sliced bread. It is extremely pocket-friendly but its own pocket is bulging - so to say - the little fella has it all. Plus, the looks are fantastic, so only one important question remains - is the performance on par with the marvelous specs. Luckily we are just about to answer that question, so sit back and enjoy.
Plantronics Reveals New Discovery 925 Bluetooth Headset
Last week at CTIA 2008 in Las Vegas, Plantronics revealed its latest fashion-oriented Bluetooth earpiece, the Discovery 925. This headset sports a unique VFrame design, which positions the microphone on an extended boom and closer to the mouth. Plantronics' innovative AudioIQ technology also works to reduce background noise, offering a superior audio experience.
The Plantronics Discovery 925 holds a claimed talk time of 5 hours, but also features a convenient matching leather-bound carrying case that stores an additional 5 hours worth of power in its own battery.
The Plantronics Discovery 925 is designed to turn heads, as well, and will be available in three striking colors. Black Onyx is planned to be available in April 2008, priced at $149.99, while the Alchemy Gold and Cerise Pink editions are set to be available in May 2008.
The Plantronics Discovery 925 holds a claimed talk time of 5 hours, but also features a convenient matching leather-bound carrying case that stores an additional 5 hours worth of power in its own battery.
The Plantronics Discovery 925 is designed to turn heads, as well, and will be available in three striking colors. Black Onyx is planned to be available in April 2008, priced at $149.99, while the Alchemy Gold and Cerise Pink editions are set to be available in May 2008.
Nokia Shows 'Tube' iPhone Competitor in Powerpoint Slide
According to an InfoWorld piece, Nokia's VP of Forum Nokia, Tom Libretto, said that the company has been working on a touch-centric device to compete with the iPhone, and that the device has the code name of "Tube." Nokia has not formally announced the device, which was featured today in a slide shown at the Evans Data Developer Relations Conference in California. Nokia also declined to give a time frame as to when the product might be launched.
About the only details available on the as-yet unannounced device are that it will sport a new finger touch based user interface and that it will support Java applications. It does seems likely that the Tube will be the first S60 Touch based device, though S60 Touch does not appear to have been specifically mentioned.
About the only details available on the as-yet unannounced device are that it will sport a new finger touch based user interface and that it will support Java applications. It does seems likely that the Tube will be the first S60 Touch based device, though S60 Touch does not appear to have been specifically mentioned.
At CTIA earlier this month, Bluetooth headset manufacturer Sound ID introduced its newest device, the HD300. Using what the company is calling NoiseNavigation, the HD300 headset should provide automatic reduction of background and wind noise while in use. The headset also has automatic volume control, which is handy when driving, and also offers three listening modes.
This sleek and slim Bluetooth headset weighs a mere 8g (.28oz) and measures 53.5mm x 15.5mm x 7.5mm (2.1" x 0.6" x 0.3"). The HD300's battery should provide up to 6 hours of continuous talk time or 8 days of standby.
The Sound ID HD300 Bluetooth headset should be available in Q3 of this year for US$120.
This sleek and slim Bluetooth headset weighs a mere 8g (.28oz) and measures 53.5mm x 15.5mm x 7.5mm (2.1" x 0.6" x 0.3"). The HD300's battery should provide up to 6 hours of continuous talk time or 8 days of standby.
The Sound ID HD300 Bluetooth headset should be available in Q3 of this year for US$120.
Verizon Introduces New Messaging Plans
Verizon announced new messaging plans meant for those who use the messaging/data features more than the voice features of their cell phones. All three plans provide unlimited text, picture, IM and video messaging, as well as unlimited mobile Web and data. None of the plans requires an accompanying voice plan. The consumer devices messaging plan costs $35 per month and voice minutes will cost $0.40. Mobile email will cost an additional $5 for that plan. The BlackBerry/PDA plans each cost $55 per month, and add unlimited email, and voice minutes at $0.25.
ULP Bluetooth Connects 50 Times Faster than Bluetooth 2.1
CSR demonstrated Ultra Low Power Bluetooth (formerly WiBree) data transfers recently, and showed that the technology can connect and send data up to 50 times faster and consume one-tenth the power of current Bluetooth technology. ULP Bluetooth is complimentary to standard Bluetooth, and uses a separate radio. Rather than stay constantly connected, ULP Bluetooth devices will connect when necessary using just three frequencies (rather than standard Bluetooth's 32), send a burst of simple data at high speeds, and then shut off. Because the device transfers data so quickly and spends more time off than standard Bluetooth, it uses less power. Stand-alone ULP Bluetooth devices will have battery life that is measured in years.
Companies Agree on LTE Licensing Terms
Seven different companies have agreed to make licensing technology developed for Long Term Evolution networks easier to manage. The thought is that by setting some ground rules for licensing intellectual property rights regarding the 3GPP LTE and SAE standards, it will be easier and less costly for the technology to be developed and deployed. The ground rules use the "fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory" principle regarding essential patents, and the companies have agreed to set royalty rates in the single digit of sales price range. The companies are: Alcatel-Lucent, Ericsson, NEC, NextWave Wireless, Nokia, Nokia Siemens Networks and Sony Ericsson. They also hope that this will prevent patent disputes in the future.
Verizon Wireless Changes Smartphone Plans
Today Verizon made some alterations to its PDA and smartphone data plans. Verizon Wireless E-mail and Web for Smartphone will support up to 10 email accounts and unlimited web browsing for $30 per month. To start, it will only be available with the HTC SMT5800, the XV6800 and the Motorola Q9m. Verizon will make more phones compatible with this new plan over the coming months. Verizon is also offering a hosted email product for small or home office users. The service will use Microsoft's Exchange server and allow customers to sync their business email, calendar and contacts information to their smartphones. The basic plan, which costs $8 per month, will support POP3 and IMAP email and will have 25 MB of email storage and Outlook web access. The premium plan costs $15 per month, and offers 100 MB of storage and other features such as ActiveSync, an Outlook PC client and the ability to expand storage for nominal monthly fees.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Opera Mini to Be Available on Android
Today Opera Software announced that it has made a version of its Mini browser available to developers of the forthcoming Android mobile platform. The preview of the mobile browser in in pre-beta form, but Opera expects to roll out a beta version in the near future. Opera Mini should support any handset that is released running the Android platform. Android has yet to be finalized by the Open Handset Alliance and Google.
FCC Approves Nationwide Mobile Alert System
The Federal Communications Commission approved a new, national alert system that would send text messages to Americans during emergencies. The three events that would trigger the text message alerts are a disaster or attack that could injure Americans or threaten their health; natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes or tornadoes; or Amber alerts or child abductions. The messages will be created by a government agency that has yet to be formed. The network operators have to opt into the system once it is created, and will have 10 months to meet the technical requirements of the system. So far AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless all said they would participate. End-users can also choose to opt in or out. Subscribers will not be charged for messages sent through the alert system, which will not be operational until 2010.
T-Mobile Offers to Replace Wing Batteries
Because some batteries in the HTC Wing are prone to overheating, T-Mobile and HTC are taking a preventative step and offering to replace the Dynapack batteries with Celxpert batteries. No reports of fires or injuries as a result of the overheating batteries have been made. Even so, T-Mobile suggests that Wing users contact customer service. It will ship the Celxpert replacement battery at no charge, and will include a pre-paid return label to mail back the Dynapack battery.
from T-Mobile
from T-Mobile
Verizon to Use Spectrum Winnings for LTE
Verizon Wireless said that it will use its 700 MHz spectrum winnings from Auction 73 to deploy its 4G Long Term Evolution network. The winnings increase Verizon's spectrum depth from an average of 52 MHz to 82 MHz. Verizon Wireless plans to launch its LTE network in the 700 MHz spectrum in the 2010 timeframe.
Vodafone CEO Calls for Industry to Choose LTE
In comments made at the CTIA wireless convention in Las Vegas, Vodafone CEO Arun Sarin said the entire wireless industry should standardize on Long Term Evolution technology. He believes the wireless industry would be able to be swifter in delivering a true PC internet experience if it settled on one broadband standard rather than competing technologies. In the U.S., both AT&T and Verizon Wireless have committed to LTE as their 4G network technology. Sprint has chosen WiMax for its 4G technology. T-Mobile and other carries have yet to announce plans for 4G networks.
All AT&T Smartphones to Be 3G-Enabled Within Months
AT&T CEO Ralph de la Vega confirmed that all of AT&T's smartphones, including BlackBerries and the Apple iPhone, will be running on AT&T's 3G network within months.
Amazon Publishes Text-To-Buy Service
Amazon has launched a new service that will allow customers to make purchases via SMS. Buyers will send an SMS search to 'Amazon' with the item they desire. Search terms can include author name, title, ISBN and or artist. Amazon will SMS back a numbered list of search results. If a buyer finds an item they wish to buy, they simply text the number back to Amazon. Amazon will then call the buyer so the buyer can review the purchase details. The service is called TextBuyIt
AT&T's HSPA Network to be Complete in 2008
Hank Kafka, vice president of network architecture for AT&T Mobility, confirmed that the company will have its entire 3G network upgraded to HSPA by the end of this year. AT&T rolled out HSDPA throughout 2007 and began adding HSUPA late in 2007. It had 255 markets running HSDPA by the end of 2007 and will have 350 major metropolitan markets covered by HSPA, enabling download speeds of 7.2Mbps, before the start of 2009.