FANTASTIC GADGET

BlackBerry Storm 9530 Unlocked GSM + CDMA

2011-07-23T09:16:00.000-07:00

BlackBerry Storm 9530 Unlocked GSM + CDMA Cell Phone with 3.15 MP Camera

BlackBerry Storm 9530 Unlocked First BlackBerry touchscreen phone packed with messaging, document editing, and multimedia features; international GSM Access V Cast, Music and Video services via fast EV-DO data network; GPS-enabled for turn-by-turn directions; use phone as a modem for your laptop 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth stereo music; MicroSD expansion to 16 GB; access to personal email and instant messaging Designed to satisfy the needs of both consumers and business customers, the BlackBerry Storm smartphone offers a revolutionary touchscreen that dramatically enhances the touch interface and enables easy and precise typing.

The world's first clickable touchscreen responds much like a physical keyboard and also supports single-touch, multi-touch and gestures for intuitive and efficient application navigation. If You unlock the GSM part of this phone , then, Whether traveling to Europe or Asia, the Storm provides globetrotters the freedom of reliable global connectivity with Verizon Wireless's reliable, high-speed 3G CDMA network here in the United States and compatibility with GSM networks . It's compatible with the V Cast Music and V CAST Music with Rhapsody services, which enables you to purchase songs through your phone and download them via Verizon Wireless's fast EV-DO data network.

You'll also benefit from the phone's A-GPS receiver, which enables you to access Verizon Wireless's VZ Navigator service for turn-by-turn directions. Other features include a 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth connectivity for hands free devices and stereo music streaming, 1 GB internal memory, MicroSD memory expansion to 16 GB, support for up to 10 personal and corporate email accounts, access to popular instant messaging services, and up to 6 hours of talk time.

Technical Details :

Built-in GPS - A-GPS function - BlackBerry maps - Document editor - Java - Media player MP3/WMA/AAC+ - 3.5 mm audio output jack, Video player MPEG4/3gp/H.264/WMV - Organizer - Calculator - Voice dial - Built-in handsfree - Voice memo
3.15 MP, 2048x1536 pixels, autofocus, video, LED flash
2G Network GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 3G Network HSDPA 2100 - CDMA2000 1x EV-DO
Included in the Box is ONLY: Phone, Battery , Charger, USB cable, Manual

Size (LWH): 4.43 inches, 0.54 inches, 2.45 inches
Weight: 5.44 ounces

BlackBerry Storm 9530 Unlocked GSM + CDMA Cell Phone with 3.15 MP Camera

BlackBerry Torch 9800 Specifications

2011-07-20T04:53:00.000-07:00

BlackBerry Torch 9800 Specifications. Blackberry Torch using the BlackBerry operating system 6, which offers an entry box where users can access the updates from social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, in the same place as their email..

Gadget news from blackberry product is Blackberry Torch 9800. BlackBerry Torch 9800 uses a combination of concept qwerty and touch screen on the newest smart phone. Another excellent feature is the ability to search applications, media content or a contact by typing the word in the function of ‘universal search’. So users a simple way to search. BlackBerry Torch is equipped with five-megapixel camera with flash and built-in GPS for location-based applications. Blackberry Torch using the BlackBerry operating system 6, which offers an entry box where users can access the updates from social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, in the same place as their email.

BlackBerry Torch 9800 Specifications :

* 2G-GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
* 3G-UMTS 850 / 1900 / 2100 / 800
* Dimensions H / W / D – 111 x 62 x 14.6 mm
* Model: BlackBerry Torch
* Network: Quad band GSM / HSDPA
* BlackBerry OS 6
* 3.2-inch color display
* Screen resolution of 480 x 360 pixels
* QWERTY keyboard
* Optical trackpad
* Proximity sensor for auto turn-off
* 5 mega pixel camera with zoom
* Flash Light / Auto focus
* Music player with 3.5 mm headset jack
* Video player with recording
* 512 MB RAM/512 MB Flash / 4 GB Flash
* Up to 4 GB through MicroSD
* Facebook / Twitter MySpace
* YouTube
* Mobile instant messaging
* Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP stereo
* GPRS Class 10 (4 +1 / 3 +2 slots), 32 – 48 kbps
* EDGE-Class 10, 236.8 kbps
* 3G-384kbps
* Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n/3G
* JAVA-Yes, MIDP 2.0
* Social feeds
* BlackBerry maps
* Document editor (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF)
* Media player MP3/WMA/eAAC + / FLAC / OGG player
* Video player MP4/WMV/H.263/H.264
* Organizer
* Voice memo / dial
* Video playback and streaming
* 1300 mAh Lithium battery
* Talk time 5.5 hrs
* Stand by: 17 days
* Weight 161.1 gm

BlackBerry Torch 9800 Specifications

LG Optimus 3D P920

2011-07-14T23:29:00.000-07:00

LG Optimus 3D P920 has multiple connectivity options such are 3G (HSUPA 5.76Mbps), GPRS, EDGE, Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, microUSB v2.0, HTML Web Browser, with this service share your images, videos, songs and data with others...

Recently LG announced worlds first 3D Smartphone that includes dual 5 Mega Pixel camera and large 4.3 inches display. The dual camera of this mobile phone is just simply awesome users can capture full HD 1080p@24fps (2D), 720p@30fps (3D) videos and also high class clarity images, 5 Mega Pixel camera has features like autofocus, LED flash, Stereoscopic photos & videos; geo-tagging and also included video calling camera at front side.

Users can view icons, images, videos quite comfortably in 3D with large 4.3 inches 3D LCD capacitive touchscreen which has 16m colors and 480 x 800 pixels resolution. It display comes LG 3D UI, Accelerometer sensor for UI auto-rotate, Proximity sensor for auto turn-off, Gyro sensor, Touch-sensitive controls features. The design of this device is very eye catchy, it has dimension of 128.8 x 68 x 11.9 mm and 168 gm weight.

Lg Optimus 3D P920 has multiple connectivity options such are 3G (HSUPA 5.76Mbps), GPRS, EDGE, Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, microUSB v2.0, HTML Web Browser, with this service share your images, videos, songs and data with others. Cell phone is also inbuilt with lots of social apps such as Facebook, Twitter, Orkut, Google Search, Gtalk, pecasa, youtube with this apps users can get connected with there family and friends anytime throuch cell phone and also can share there Photos, Videos, Sounds and other data on web.

Operating System of Optimus 3D P920 is Android OS, v2.2 (Froyo), upgradable to v2.3 and included Dual-core 1GHz ARM Cortex-A9 proccessor, PowerVR SGX540 GPU, TI OMAP4430 chipset (CPU) this the advance technology which is used in cell phone now-a-days and it runs device fast when user launch any apps. Device has 8 GB storage, 512 MB RAM internal space and it can increase up to 32GB microSD memory card.

LG Optimus 3D P920 comes with many advanced and impressive features such are HDMI port, Digital compass, MP4/DivX/XviD/H.264/H.263/WMV player, 1080p@24fps (2D), 720@30fps (3D) playback, MP3/WAV/WMA/eAAC+ player, Stereo FM radio with RDS, 3.5mm Jack, Loudspeaker, Document viewer/editor, Organizer, 3D Games, Full Flash 10.1 support, Supports Java applications and software etc.

It has Li-Ion 1500 MAH battery which is capable to give talk time of 4 hours and 100 hours standby time.

LG Optimus 3D P920

Blackberry Playbook vs Xoom Tablet Comparison

2011-07-05T02:05:00.000-07:00

Blackberry Playbook vs Xoom Tablet Comparison. Blackberry Playbook is elegant, that’s the first impression that you are going to get no doubt. Its sleek and stylish design and excellent finish will certainly be getting your attention first up, before you get into the details of other specifications

With the tablet market in India going crazy with the addition of new tablets every day, the latest addition to the tech selves from a renowned manufacturer is Playbook from Blackberry makers RIM and Xoom from Motorola. The main competitor for all the tablet manufacturers is undoubtedly the Apple iPad2, seemingly the competition is getting tougher and tougher for iPad but somehow it has managed to keep its market share on the high so far. Will Blackberry Playbook and Xoom be able to get any closer to beat the iPad in the tablet race or will this prove to be just yet another good try. Let us compare the important features of both these tablets to find out which one has a better chance.

The First Impression (Looks and Size)

Blackberry Playbook is elegant, that’s the first impression that you are going to get no doubt. Its sleek and stylish design and excellent finish will certainly be getting your attention first up, before you get into the details of other specifications. With this sleek and stylish design, playbook weighs only 14 ounce and is much lighter than 1.6 pound Motorola Xoom. Now comes the size, with the weighs compared you can expect Playbook to be extremely compact and that’s exactly what the case is, even with so many tablets around it would be hard to beat its 7-inch pocket fit size, again Motorola Xoom has a screen size of 10.1 inch. Both the tablets feature TFT capacitive touch screens with 16M color with Xoom having a higher resolution 800*1280 compared to 600*1024 pixels of Playbook.

Camera

Blackberry Playbook comes in with a 5mp camera at the back plus a 3MP front camera. To have a 5MP camera in your pocket size tablet is indeed a big delight. It has the ability to capture high resolution images in all environments and record HD 1080p video. Xoom is not behind on this front featuring a 5Mp front camera and a 2MP rear facing camera. It is capable of recording HD 720p video. So Playbook has a slight edge on the camera battle front.

Blackberry Playbook runs a new OS called QNX while Xoom has quickly gained reputation as being the first tablet running on the latest Android 3.0.Both the tablets feature impressive 1ghz dual core processor. Both the devices are available in 16,32 and 64GB versions.

Applications

The availability of apps is something that has always kept Apple ahead of the other tablet manufactures. The only other competitor at the moment as far as apps goes is Google Android. Playbook will definitely not be able to match Motorola Xoom on the apps front with its 3000+ available apps compared to well establish Android apps in Motorola Xoom.

Email Client And Web Browsing

Blackberry Playbook lacks the email clients for yahoo, hotmail and gmail but provides a better browsing experience being equipped with Adobe flash player that is missing in Motorola Xoom.

Even though Blackberry has tried hard to produce a business oriented tablet with decent entertainment features the more iPad like Xoom is ahead with its Android 3.0 OS.

Blackberry Playbook vs Xoom Tablet Comparison

Portable DVD Player Panasonic DVD-LS92 9-Inch Screen

2011-06-27T00:39:00.000-07:00

Panasonic DVD-LS92 9-Inch Screen Portable DVD Player.

The DVD-LS92 comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that gives you a full 11 hours of playback without having to worry about running out of power on long trips. That's long enough to watch up to possibly six DVD movies on a single charge while flying from New York to L.A. and back, so leave the AC adaptor at home and forget about recharging at your hotel.

When you're in the mood for a movie, this versatile player can play back many different types of prerecorded DVDs, including DVD-RAM/-R/-RW and DVD+R/+RW discs. If you want to give your eyes a rest and listen to some tunes instead, our portable DVD player handles lots of the most popular audio formats around, including CDs, MP3s, CD-R/RW discs and WMA files.

The large 9" widescreen display pivots for free-style viewing so you can adjust the position for optimum comfort and image quality. You can also adjust the screen brightness to get the best view of your DVDs in all kinds of light conditions. You get beautiful images while watching movies on a dimly lit airplane, or when you're relaxing in the sun at a resort or other outdoor spot.

Portable DVD Player Panasonic DVD-LS92 9-Inch Screen

Supported Formats :


DVD Playback :	DVD Video
DVD-R/DVD-R DL/DVD-RW :	DVD-Video, MP3 (DVD-R/-RW,) JPEG (DVD-R/-RW)
+R/+R(DL)/+RW 1 Playback:	Video
CD-R/-RW :	CD-DA, Video CD, SVCD, MP3, JPEG
Input/Output
Headphone Out:	Yes
Car DC Adaptor:	Yes
AV Out:	Yes
Additional
Dimensions:	9-9/16" x 1-13/16" x 6-27/32"
Weight:	39.15 oz

3-D silly but EVO 3D smart overall

2011-06-24T22:52:00.000-07:00

There has been a big push for 3-D at movie theaters and on TV sets, so it was only a matter of time before digitally enhanced fisticuffs started popping out of smartphone screens, too.

The 3-D technology is the most boasted-about feature on HTC's new EVO 3D smartphone, which goes on sale Friday. You can watch 3-D movies and play 3-D games without putting on annoying glasses. You can shoot 3-D photos and videos, too.

The inclusion of 3-D is gimmicky and might make you feel nauseous, but it is creative at times and the EVO 3D is a fine smartphone overall. The phone costs $200 with a two-year service plan with Sprint Nextel Corp.

I wear glasses, so I was excited that I didn't need to put on another pair to try out the EVO 3D. The phone creates the appearance of depth using a technique called autostereoscopy. The screen has a layer that guides light so that the light from one pixel goes to the left eye and from the next to the right.

I got right to work watching a 3-D version of "The Green Hornet," which came with the phone. I was wowed by a fight scene where glass seemed to be flying out of the screen. A friend I handed the phone to even flinched when the shards blew past.

I also checked out some animated 3-D clips on YouTube. The scenes that looked best were, not surprisingly, those with people and objects in the foreground and background and with things moving right toward the camera.

Whether I was watching 3-D or 2-D videos, the phone's 4.3-inch touch screen was crisp and colors looked vivid.

That said, my brain wasn't thrilled about processing the 3-D images, so I couldn't stare at the display for long without feeling queasy.

It was also evident that I wouldn't really be able to share the dizzying experience with friends unless I handed them the phone. You need to tilt the EVO 3D in your hands until you find the viewing angle that is optimal for your eyes. That may not be an optimal angle for the person next to or behind you.

You can, however, involve buddies by letting them star in a 3-D movie or in photos that you shoot with the EVO 3D. The phone takes pictures or videos by recording overlapping images when its two 5-megapixel cameras are side by side. The camera lenses are positioned next to each other only when the phone is on its side, so you can only capture things in 3-D in "landscape" mode.

I couldn't manage to take any great shots, however. The images always seemed fuzzily misaligned, even with the inclusion of a feature for adjusting the alignment of the images.

I was more successful with the 3-D video camera, though I couldn't test whether objects really fly off the screen because my colleagues wouldn't hold the camera for me so I could throw things at them (even when I promised to lob only wads of paper at the lens).

I could see how the 3-D mode might come in handy for recording sporting events, especially if you're crazy enough to jump into the fray and fast enough to stay ahead of the action.

If you're not into flowers or people popping out of the screen, you can switch to 2-D mode by pressing a button on the side of the phone.

I also liked that the phone had a button dedicated to the camera, which I always find easier to take photos and videos with than a virtual touch-screen button.

The phone has a front-facing camera, too, for taking self-portraits or video chatting.

Not wanting to lose my lunch all over the phone, I took a break from the 3-D features and checked out the rest of the phone.

The mostly black EVO 3D runs on Gingerbread, which is the latest version of Google's Android meant for smartphones. As I've seen on other Gingerbread-running phones, the software is easy to use and speedy.

The phone uses HTC's Sense software as well, the best part of which is a customizable smarty-pants screen that is visible when the phone is locked. You can set it to show stock quotes, weather, social network updates or other content without unlocking the device.

The phone swiftly opened applications and Web pages and streamed content with ease over Sprint's next-generation, high-speed 4G network.

It was also easy to type on, as it includes the uber-useful Swype keyboard software, which lets you slide your fingers on the virtual keyboard to type. I also liked the inclusion of an FM radio, as it offers a way to listen to tunes without requiring Internet access or the storage of songs on the phone itself.

Aside from the stomach-churning aspect of the 3-D feature, I had only a few complaints:

• I still make plenty of calls on cellphones, so I was disappointed that the EVO 3D's sound quality wasn't very good, with voices sounding muffled.

• The phone's battery life wasn't fabulous. In a day of heavy usage, which included making phone calls, recording and watching 3-D videos and surfing the Web, I got 5.5 hours before needing a recharge.

• I missed having a built-in kickstand, a feature available on the EVO 3D's predecessor, the EVO 4G.

Nonetheless, the EVO 3D has strong software and plenty of other useful features. Although 3-D is touted as this smartphone's coolest feature, it's merely a silly extra that's occasionally useful than a necessity. And beyond that, the phone has a lot more to offer that won't make you feel queasy.

3-D silly but EVO 3D smart overall

BlackBerry 9800 Torch Unlocked Phone

2011-06-01T02:00:00.000-07:00

The Blackberry Torch 9800 features the new Blackberry 6.0 OS for high-efficiency browsing, a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, all the email and messaging functions one expects from a smartphone, a 5MP camera, 3G and the usual user-friendly features and performance one would expect from Blackberry. It has integrated social networking apps, Wi-fi, 3G GSM, Quadband Music and Video playback, OEM, Built-in speakerphone, Stereo FM Radio, Bluetooth v2.1, SureType technology, Tethered modem, Blackberry 6 OS.

BlackBerry 9800 Torch Unlocked Phone with 5 MP Camera, Full QWERTY Keyboard, 4 GB Internal Storage, and Slider Card Slot Up to 32GB - International Version with No Warranty

Technical Details :

This unlocked cell phone is compatible with GSM carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile. Not all carrier features may be supported. It will not work with CDMA carriers like Verizon Wireless, Alltel and Sprint.
Next-generation messaging powerhouse with 3.2-inch touchscreen, slide-down QWERTY keyboard, and BlackBerry 6 OS
Wireless-N Wi-Fi; 5-megapixel camera/camcorder; 4 GB internal memory; microSD expansion; Bluetooth stereo music
Up to 5.8 hours of talk time, up to 432 hours (18 days) of standby time; released in August, 2010
Wifi
5mp camera
Card slot
Qwerty
Smartphone

BlackBerry 9800 Torch Unlocked Phone with 5 MP Camera, Full QWERTY Keyboard, 4 GB Internal Storage, and Slider Card Slot Up to 32GB - International Version with No Warranty

BlackBerry 9800 Torch Unlocked Phone

HP TouchSmart Desktop Computer

2011-05-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

HP TouchSmart 310-1125f Desktop Computer

The modern all-in-one design of the HP TouchSmart 310-1125f PC keeps your world clutter free and with the latest TouchSmart technology and a suite of apps, simply touch the screen to surf the web, watch movies, play music, flip through photos and more. A PC and 20” diagonal widescreen display in a single slim unit, this HP desktop computer has Wireless LAN 802.11b/g/n, wireless keyboard and optical mouse, a built-in webcam and microphone and integrated High Definition Audio with 2.0 sound capabilities.

Touchscreen convenience, easy productivity, fun with music, photos and videos. The HP TouchSmart 310-1125f PC puts your entire PC on top of your desk while concealing antennas, cables and messy peripherals. With this HP desktop PC, you can watch HD movies, video chat with friends and family using the built-in webcam and microphone and surf the Web, wirelessly. Simply touch the screen to create playlists, watch, record and upload videos, view and organize photos, browse the Web and more.

Technical Details :

The latest evolution of HP's TouchSmart software makes it easier to be entertained, get creative, and have fun.
Multi-touch technology lets your fingers move more naturally over the screen as you interact with your content.
Get excellent performance with 4GB DDR3 system memory
The modern all-in-one design keeps your world clutter free: just plug it in and you're ready to go.
Turn your desktop into a personal canvas where you can create, communicate and catalog your digital world.

FEATURES :

Touchscreen Technology
Use multi-touch gestures to navigate your touchscreen
Multicore Processor
Get better performance and work more efficiently
6-in-1 Digital Media Reader
Transfer photos from a digital camera to your desktop PC without using cables
LightScribe Technology
Burn labels directly onto CDs and DVDs
Built-in HP Webcam
Video chat live using your HP TouchSmart 310-1125f PC
Wireless LAN 802.11b/g/n
Connect to a wireless printer and other accessories

HP TouchSmart 310-1125f Desktop Computer

Fold-Up Stand Apple iPad, Galaxy Tab, BlackBerry Play Book

2011-05-19T02:13:00.000-07:00

Arkon Portable Fold-Up Stand for Apple iPad, Galaxy Tab, BlackBerry Play Book.

Arkon's IPM-TAB1 is an exceedingly travel-friendly tablet computer stand designed for use with nearly all new lightweight tablet computers such as the Apple iPad, Galaxy Tab, BlackBerry Play Book and others. A quality user-friendly stand is an essential tablet accessory for enhancing your mobile computing experience. The desktop stand frees up your hands so you can watch movies, read an eBook or recipe, surf the web, conduct a presentation, view photos, read displayed sheet music, or conduct any other activity that would benefit from a foldable easel type of stand.

Details :

Extremely portable and fits in any bag or pocket
Works with Apple iPad with or without a case or sleeve
Non skid material on base keeps the stand secure on flat surfaces
Perfect for Air plane seat trays
Position your device in multiple angles in landscape or portrait view

Arkon Portable Fold-Up Stand for Apple iPad, Galaxy Tab, BlackBerry Play Book

Apple iBook Wireless DVD/CDRW PC G4

2011-05-17T23:18:00.000-07:00

Connect to the Internet with its integrated Ethernet, 56K modem, or surf without wires with the pre-installed Airport card! If you've always wanted the Apple experience but couldn't afford one, this Apple iBook G4 is for you

Apple iBook Wireless DVD/CDRW PC G4

This Apple iBook G4 1.07 GHz notebook is looking for a good home. Pre-installed components include an Apple G4 1.07 GHz processor, 256 MB of RAM, a 30 GB hard drive, and an Airport Wireless card.

The Apple iBook notebook has Mac OS X pre-installed and a CD-ROM drive ready to access media. Watch vivid images on its 12.1-inch TFT LCD and listen to integrated audio with its built-in speakers.

Notebook is in very good condition - may have minor scratches on case or screen Has cosmetic blemishes, examples of which are (but not limited to): Minor scratches on case Minor scratches in the screen Hairline cracks on case or bezel Dead pixels (5 or less) Missing doors (for example, for the PC Card slot) Normal wear signs on keys, buttons and pointing devices May be missing manual, drivers, operating system, carrying cases Missing rubber feet from bottom of notebook Battery is not guaranteed to hold a full charge Battery is not covered under warranty All specific issues will be noted in the ad.

Model : iBook Power PC G4

- Product Features

Apple iBook G4 1.07ghz Wireless DVD/CDRW 100 Day Warranty
Includes Apple's wireless Airport card, 12.1" lcd, 256mb RAM, DVD/CDRW (watch DVD's & burn CD's)
Leopard OS X (operating system) 10.5.8, Microsoft Office 2008 & iLife 2009
Includes genuine Apple power supply.

Apple iBook 1.07ghz Wireless DVD/CDRW

Google Launch Chromebook Laptop

2011-05-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

Google Launch Chromebook Laptop.. The company will offer businesses its Chromebooks, along with technical support, as a hassle-free solution for $28 a month. The laptops, using processors made by Intel, will be available...

Google has launched an audacious attack on Microsoft, announcing laptop computers called Chromebooks that will use its own operating system – rather than Windows – will ship in June.

The machines will be made by Samsung and Acer, two companies that have previously made machines running Microsoft's software.

The laptops will coordinate tightly with Google's "cloud" online services, and have almost no capacity to store information. Instead, the bare-bones operating system is essentially a web browser that steers users to applications like email and spreadsheets directly on the web, rather than storing software such as Outlook or Word directly on PCs.

The move is Google's first directly onto Microsoft's home turf of PC operating systems and the Office suite software – a pair of monopolies that generate around $5bn of profits for the company every quarter. Until now it has largely avoided direct competition with Bill Gates's company on its strongest areas, focusing instead on internet areas such as search and webmail and online document services.

The Chromebooks shift day-to-day functions onto the internet, removing what Google sees as the time-consuming burden of tasks associated with traditional PCs such as installing software and updates, backing up files and running antivirus checks, executives said.

"The complexity of managing your computer is torturing users," Google co-founder Sergey Brin said at the announcement at Google's IO conference in San Francisco. "It's a flawed model fundamentally. Chromebooks are a new model that doesn't put the burden of managing your computer on yourself."

PC sales have grown steadily over the past 15 years, with brief dips during the recession, but there are signs of slowdowns, especially in Europe and the US, among consumers. Businesses are Microsoft's most loyal customers. Google is aiming at such "enterprise" customers, too, with the suggestion that their data will be safer in the cloud than on a PC that could get lost or stolen.

The company will offer businesses its Chromebooks, along with technical support, as a hassle-free solution for $28 a month. The laptops, using processors made by Intel, will be available for order initially in the US on Amazon.com and Best Buy's online store from 15 June.

As with Google's Android mobile operating system, the Chrome operating system (Chrome OS) will be free. The intention is that it will encourage people to spend more time on the internet – where they are more likely to use Google and so see or click on its adverts, because Google is the dominant provider of search adverts, with about 90% of world share.

In another move encouraging people to move their computing off their PCs and onto "the cloud", Google on Tuesday launched an online music locker service in the US letting users store and listen to their songs wherever they are.

The operating system and Chromebook PCs expand on Google's web browser, also called Chrome, that competes against Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Earlier on Wednesday Google announced that there are 160m users of its Chrome browser, launched in September 2008.

Google targets Microsoft with launch of Chromebook laptop

Apple iBook Wireless DVD/CDRW PC G4

2011-05-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

This Apple iBook G4 1.07 GHz notebook is looking for a good home. Pre-installed components include an Apple G4 1.07 GHz processor, 256 MB of RAM, a 30 GB hard drive, and an Airport Wireless card.

The Apple iBook notebook has Mac OS X pre-installed and a CD-ROM drive ready to access media. Watch vivid images on its 12.1-inch TFT LCD and listen to integrated audio with its built-in speakers.

Model : iBook Power PC G4

- Product Features

Apple iBook G4 1.07ghz Wireless DVD/CDRW 100 Day Warranty
Includes Apple's wireless Airport card, 12.1" lcd, 256mb RAM, DVD/CDRW (watch DVD's & burn CD's)
Leopard OS X (operating system) 10.5.8, Microsoft Office 2008 & iLife 2009
Includes genuine Apple power supply.

Apple iBook 1.07ghz Wireless DVD/CDRW

Apple LED Cinema Display 27 Inch

2011-05-05T20:57:00.000-07:00

Apple LED Cinema Display 27-Inch MC007LL/A

The 27-inch Apple LED Cinema Display, featuring a stunning 2560-by-1440 resolution, LED backlighting, and amazing 178-degree viewing angle. It connects to any Mac with a Mini DisplayPort connection. The universal MagSafe connector charges your Mac notebook, and three USB 2.0 ports give you room to expand. There’s also a built-in iSight camera, microphone, and 49-watt speaker system.

Product Features :

27-inch (diagonal) glossy widescreen display
2560-by-1440-pixel resolution
LED backlighting
Three connectors: Mini DisplayPort, MagSafe, USB
Three self-powered USB 2.0 ports

A Review at Amazon by A. Lee :

Having used PCs and Macs for the better part of two decades, I've seen it all. Let me just say this is by far the best display I've had the pleasure of using.

Pros:
It's an IPS screen (versus TN, PVA or MVA) meaning you'll see incredibly good viewing angels and consistent color. PVA screens are great too (avoid TN and MVA) but IPS still has the edge.

It's a glossy screen, meaning there's no sparkly anti-glare coating blurring small fonts and other details. Colors pop, even the tiniest of details are easily visible. I love it.

It has a glass screen (gorilla glass?), so it's very easy to clean and very hard to scratch.

Speakers are among the best for built in speakers, which isn't saying much, but they're easily better than some larger TVs.

Cons:
While I despise murky antiglare coated displays, there's no denying that glare is a problem under certain conditions.

Displayport is the ONLY input. I'm using the Atlona DP400 to run a GTX 580 through this display via DVI with zero problems at full resolution. But keep in mind this is an extra expense.

The stand's height and orientation cannot be adjusted. It's tilt only.

Bottom line:
You'll notice astounding detail with this display. Everything just pops off the screen. I haven't had this much pleasure with a display since the old Trinitron days of the 80's, guide wires and all.

Apple LED Cinema Display 27-Inch MC007LL/A

Scosche Dual USB Car Charger

2011-05-03T05:31:00.000-07:00

With the reVIVE from Scosche you can easily charge most USB powered devices including your iPod, iPhone, Blackberry, Android, cellular phones, MP3 players, PDAs and more. This charger allows for two of your devices to be simultaneously charged while utilizing only one of your cars valuable 12v DC power sockets. The dual port interface uses your existing USB cables to let you plug in and get charged. Each port has been developed to provide 500 mA of power in order for a quick and efficient charge. You will be able to enjoy the convenience of keeping your favorite devices powered while living an on-the-go lifestyle.

Advantages and Applications

The reVIVE brings many advantages to users. It gives you the ability to keep yourself entertained on long drives with a fully charged MP3 player while also being able to keep your cell phone ready for that next business call. You can even keep your GPS device ready and working while reviewing important voice notes off of your phone before your next meeting. Likewise, this dual port USB car charger provides you with a tool to help save space in the precious area surrounding your dash. The compact size of the reVIVE ensures that you can drive safely while keeping your devices fully powered.

Convenient Design

The sleek and compact design allows for the reVIVE to fit in virtually any charging socket. The easy to see blue LED light confirms when the USB charger is properly setup in order to provide a maximum charge to your devices. Having a dark exterior keeps the charger from standing out and helps it compliment most vehicle interiors. Additionally, the reVIVE is constructed of lightweight material making it perfect for carrying along in luggage or your own pocket.

Simple Setup

To activate the reVIVE simply insert the dual USB car charger into any 12v DC power socket. Your USB cables slide securely into the dual charging ports. Briefly look at each electronic device to see that they are properly connected and begin your travel assured that they are efficiently being charged. Removal is just as easy and only requires a gentle pull in order to disconnect the USB charger. The reVIVE uses the power provided by your cars power sockets to enable each USB port a successful and quick way to charge all of your electronic devices.

Don't ever let a lack of power drain you again. The reVIVE can be used to keep your most demanding devices ready to work. When you want to prevent a low battery warning from ruining your important plans, all you need is the Scosche reVIVE.

Scosche Dual USB Car Charger

RIM Announces New BlackBerry Bold

2011-05-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

RIM Announces New BlackBerry Bold... RIM calls the new software BlackBerry 7 OS and says it provides an easier and faster user experience, with an updated Web browser

Research In Motion Ltd. on Monday showed off a new version of one of its high-end BlackBerrys, updating the Bold with a touch screen and fresh software.

T-Mobile USA said it will carry the BlackBerry Bold 9900 later this year.

Research in Motion is under pressure to update its high-end phones as it's losing out to iPhones and phones running Google Inc.'s Android software. Last week, the company cut its earnings and sales forecasts for the current quarter, saying it's selling fewer and cheaper phones than expected. Its stock plummeted. The fall continued Monday, with the shares losing 55 cents, or 1.1 percent, to $48.10.

Like the original Bold, launched in 2008, the 9900 has a keyboard under a 2.8-inch-screen in landscape orientation. It's thinner than before, at just 10.5 millimeters, making it the thinnest BlackBerry yet.

RIM calls the new software BlackBerry 7 OS and says it provides an easier and faster user experience, with an updated Web browser.

The new phone will come in two versions: one for the type of network used by T-Mobile USA and AT&T, and the other for the type used by Sprint Nextel Corp. and Verizon Wireless. T-Mobile USA is the only carrier to announce that it will carry the phone, so far.

RIM demonstrated the phone on the first day of its BlackBerry World conference in Orlando, Fla.

RIM Announces New BlackBerry Bold

Canon ImageCLASS MF4350d Laser All in One Printer

2011-05-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

Laser All-in-One with Duplex Versatility, Energy Star Certified, and cost saving Single Cartrodge System.

Offering the convenient and eco-friendly option of duplex printing, the Energy Star certified MF4350D from Canon's imageCLASS line is a multi-function unit that's ideal for small to medium-sized offices. This compact desktop solution provides all the office functions your business requires, without taking up too much valuable space. It prints, copies, faxes, and scans to create professional quality results that can help increase workgroup productivity, cut costs, and keep your home or office running smoothly.

Give Your Business An Edge

A must for smaller offices that demand professional results, the MF4350D is a smart, cost-effective choice that can give your business an edge. Because it performs the work of four separate machines in a single space-saving unit, it can fit in almost any office, streamline maintenance requirements, and keep day-to-day operations simple and stress-free. You'll never have to worry about keeping track of a variety of user manuals, repair center numbers, or warranties. Everything you need to tackle jobs both big and small is right at your fingertips.

Duplex Versatility

To help enhance everyday operation, the MF4350D offers duplex output capabilities for printing, copying and receiving faxes. You can also choose to copy single-sided pages as double-sided output via the 35-sheet automatic document feeder. These options help you significantly reduce paper consumption, which is great for both the environment and your bottom line.

Smart, Efficient Paper Handling

Business success often rests on the ability to produce quality output fast. That's why the MF4350d boasts print and copy speeds of up to 23 pages-per-minute (ppm) for letter-sized output and delivers quick "first prints" or copy pages in approximately nine seconds. It also helps you cut down on wasted time spent re-filling paper by handling up to 250 pages in a front loading cassette.

Professional Quality Results

The MF4350D device prints sharp monochrome text with resolution up to 1200 x 600 dpi for impressive clarity. Through use of the platen glass or the automatic document feeder (ADF), color scans are captured in 24-bit color at an interpolated resolution of up to 9600 dpi. The MF4350D also transmits documents seamlessly and quickly with Super G3 Fax, reaching speeds of approximately 33.6 Kbps. Additionally, it features eight one-touch speed dial numbers, 100 coded speed dial numbers, 256-page memory capacity, PC Faxing, and two-sided duplex output to provide a robust fax solution in a compact desktop design.

Space-Saving Single Cartridge System

The MF4350D also incorporates the Canon Single Cartridge System, which combines the toner and drum in one easy-to-replace unit. This results in excellent image quality retention, while eliminating the complication of finding space for separate toner and drum consumables.

The MF4350D is backed by a one-year limited warranty.

* Technical Details :

Multifunction monochrome laser printer that scans, faxes, and copies
250-sheet paper tray; 35-sheet ADF; built-in duplexer
High-resolution color scanning up to 9600 dpi
33.6kbps Super G3 faxing for ultra-fast transmissions
Print and copy speeds up to 23 ppm
Print and Copy in Black and White at a Speed of Up to 23 ppm
Printer w/Duplex Versatility, 1 to 2 Sided Printing, Copying, and Receiving Faxes
Single Cartridge System and Efficient Energy Saving Mode
Up to 35-sheet ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) and 250-Sheet Front-Loading Paper Cassette
Up to 9600 dpi Color Scanning, 33.6 Kbps Super G3 Fax, and USB 2.0 Hi-Speed

Canon ImageCLASS MF4350d Laser All in One Printer

Acer AS5742-6475 15.6-Inch Laptop

2011-04-29T22:34:00.000-07:00

The Acer Aspire 5742 notebook PC (model AS5742-6475) offers powerful performance, the latest connectivity technology, and rich media features for a fast, responsive PC experience. Start with a gorgeous 15.6-inch widescreen LCD display with built-in HD webcam and the smart performance of the Intel Core i3 processor, then throw in cool convenience features and the new Microsoft Office Starter 2010 and you have everything you need within reach to power through daily tasks and enjoy your media wherever you are.

Burn through the hottest new digital media, content creation and advanced 3D gaming with the breakthrough performance of the Intel Core i3 processor--with 4-way multitasking processor power to work on four tasks simultaneously.

The notebook's rounded edges and smooth lines bring a slenderized look while the textured mesh black cover brings a rich appearance and prevents fingerprints and scratches. The full size keyboard extends to a dedicated numeric keypad making number key in's quick.

Pinch, flick and swirl your fingers on the Multi-Gesture Touchpad for an intuitive navigation of web pages, photos, and more. A Touchpad Lock Function Key prevents accidental cursor movement from your wrists and fingers while typing.

The 1.3-megapixel HD webcam lets you go face to face in online chats and VOIPs with a 1280 x 1024 resolution, and you can go even bigger by easily connecting to your HDTV via the HDMI port--delivering crisp high-quality visuals and high-fidelity audio through a single cable.

Pre-installed with the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium operating system (64-bit version), you'll be able to easily create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. Windows 7 is the easiest, fastest, and most engaging version of Windows yet. Better ways to find and manage files, like Jump Lists and improved taskbar previews, help you speed through everyday tasks. Windows 7 is designed for faster and more reliable performance, so your PC just works the way you want it to.

You'll also experience new ways to deliver your best work with Office Starter 2010. Complete your PC. Buy full-featured Microsoft Office 2010.

Key Features

* 15.6-inch HD widescreen CineCrystal LED-backlit display with native 720p HD resolution (1366 x 768), high-brightness (200-nit), and 16:9 aspect ratio.

* 2.53 GHz Intel Core i3-380M dual-core processor for a fast, responsive PC experience (3 MB L3 cache). Intel's Hyper-Threading Technology enables each core of your processor to work on two tasks at the same time, delivering the performance you need for smart multitasking.

* 500 GB SATA hard drive (5400 RPM)

* 4 GB of installed DDR3 RAM (1066 MHz)

* Intel HD Graphics (with 128 MB of dedicated system memory) deliver turbo-charged performance and fast throughput and provides support for Microsoft DirectX 10 games.

* 8x SuperMulti DVD±R/RW drive can also write to CD, DVD-RAM, and dual-layer (DL) DVD±R discs--which can hold up to 8.5 GB of data.

* 1.3-megapixel HD webcam lets you go face to face in online chats and VOIPs with 1280 x 1024 resolution, and easily take still pictures and videos that you can share with friends.

* Built-in mono speaker

* Wireless-N Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n) for ultra-fast connectivity to home and business networks.

* Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000)

* Multi-Gesture Touchpad allows you to pinch, flick and swirl your fingers across the touchpad for more natural photo and video viewing as well as intuitive navigation of websites such as Google Earth. It also enables you to scroll, zoom in and out and flip through Web pages, photos, spreadsheets and more.

* 2-in-1 Media Card Reader compatible with Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMediaCard (MMC)

* 3 USB 2.0 ports

* HDMI high-definition audio/video output allows a single cable to transmit uncompressed high-definition video to your digital TV or LCD

* Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit) makes it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. And you can watch shows for free when and where you want with Internet TV on Windows Media Center. Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium.

* Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's the best way to add features to Windows 7, takes as few as ten minutes, requires no software or downloads, and you'll keep your existing programs, files, and settings. Windows will walk you through the simple upgrade process.

* Preloaded with the Microsoft Office Starter 2010 free software offering with selected functionality of Word and Excel for your text and spreadsheet tasks. Plus, if you decide you want the full suite, just purchase a product key to activate an ad-free version that also includes the latest Outlook, PowerPoint, and Publisher programs. Complete your PC. Buy full-featured Microsoft Office 2010.

* Acer Backup Manager Software enables you to set up backup your valuable data or media portfolio with ease, and protect your assets intelligently and quickly.

* 6-cell battery (4400 mAh)

* Weight: 5.74 pounds

* Warranty: One-year parts and labor limited warranty with concurrent International Traveler's Warranty

Acer AS5742-6475 15.6-Inch Laptop Review

Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera

2011-04-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

It's all about the power of contrast. Color that defies convention. Sleek, gentle curves that merge art and technology into a camera designed to inspire. The PowerShot SD1300 IS Digital ELPH camera captures your world as much as it expresses your originality, with bold innovations that include remarkable low light performance. Everything looks right. Hold it, and everything feels right, too.

PowerShot SD1300IS Highlights :

- 28mm wide-angle lens, 4x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer
- Smart AUTO mode intelligently selects from 18 settings
- Shooting Modes
- 12.1-megapixel resolution makes it a breeze to print large size images
- Bright, clear 2.7-inch PureColor System LCD
- Shoot in Low Light mode for dimly-lit situations

Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS 12.1 Megapixel Compact Camera - 5 mm-20 mm - SD1300ISPWRS Digital Cameras.

Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera

Apple MacBook Pro MC700LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop

2011-04-22T23:23:00.000-07:00

Apple MacBook Pro MC700LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop :

Introducing the new 13-inch MacBook Pro. The state-of-the-art dual-core Intel i5 processor delivers up to 2x faster performance (over the previous generation of MacBook Pro). New Thunderbolt technology lets you connect high-performance peripherals and high-resolution displays to a single port, and transfer files at lightning speeds. And with the new built-in FaceTime HD camera, you can make astonishingly crisp HD video calls.

With the revolutionary Thunderbolt technology, you'll be able to achieve bi-directional channels with transfer speeds to peripherals like external hard drives and servers up to an amazing 10 Gbps--while also connecting to a DisplayPort-compatible high-resolution display.

As with previous models, the MacBook Pro features a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminum, creating a thin and light mobile computing workhorse (less than 1 inch thin and just 4.5 pounds) that's also highly durable. And it includes a 13.3-inch, LED-backlit glass display as well as a glass trackpad that doesn't include a button (for larger tracking area) that features Apple's Multi-Touch technology. You'll also get up to 7 hours of battery life while on the go.

This version of the 13.3-inch Apple MacBook Pro (model MC700LL/A) Laptop features a 2.3 GHz Core i5 "Sandy Bridge" dual-core processor, 320 GB hard drive, and 4 GB of installed RAM. Other features include integrated Intel HD Graphics 3000 graphics, ultra-fast Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth connectivity, an SDXC card slot, two USB 2.0 ports, and a FireWire 800 port. It also comes with the Mac OS X Snow Leopard operating system as well as the iLife software suite, which includes the latest versions of iPhoto, iMovie, and GarageBand.

Key Features :
- Revolutionary Thunderbolt Technology
- Next-Generation Dual-Core Intel Processor
- Buttonless Multi-Touch Trackpad

Key Specifications :

- 13.3-inch LED-backlit glossy widescreen display with edge-to-edge, uninterrupted glass (1280 x 800-pixel resolution).

- 2.3 GHz Intel Core i5 dual-core processor ("Sandy Bridge") with 3 MB shared L3 cache for excellent multitasking.

- Intel HD Graphics 3000 with 384 MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory.
- 320 GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 RPM)
- 4 GB installed RAM (1333 MHz DDR3; supports up to 8 GB)
- 8x slot-loading SuperDrive with double-layer DVD support (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
- Built-in FaceTime HD camera for video chatting
- Wi-Fi wireless networking (based on 802.11n specification; 802.11a/b/g compatible)
- Gigabit Ethernet wired networking (10/100/1000)
- Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) for connecting with peripherals such as keyboards, mice and cell phones

- Two USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port
- SDXC card slot
- Thunderbolt port with native Mini DisplayPort output plus support for DVI, VGA, dual-link DVI, and HDMI (requires adapters, sold separately)

- Multi-Touch trackpad for precise cursor control with support for inertial scrolling, pinch, rotate, swipe, three-finger swipe, four-finger swipe, tap, double-tap, and drag capabilities

- Full-size backlit keyboard
- Stereo speakers with subwoofers
- Dimensions: 12.78 x 8.94 x 0.95 inches (WxDxH)
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
- Up to 7 hours of battery life
- Meets Energy Star 5.0 requirements
- Rated EPEAT Gold

Apple MacBook Pro MC700LL/A 13.3-Inch Laptop Review

Apple iPod classic 160 GB (7th Generation)

2011-04-20T04:31:00.000-07:00

The new Apple iPod classic comes with 160 GB of storage in the same compact size, making it the take-everything-everywhere iPod. It's available in quintessential silver or striking black. iPod classic also has plenty of battery life (up to 36 hours of audio playback or 6 hours of video playback), good looks (a sleek, anodized aluminum design), and other great features (Cover Flow and Genius playlists for creating perfect playlists). You can even rent a movie from iTunes and watch it on the go.

Meet a Musical Genius

Say you're listening to a song you really like and want to hear other tracks that go great with it. With a few clicks, the Genius feature finds the songs in your library that go great together and makes a Genius playlist for you. You can listen to the playlist right away, save it for later, or even refresh it and give it another go. Count on Genius to create a mix you wouldn't have thought of yourself.

Hold Everything

iPod classic gives you 160GB of storage capacity, good for up to 40,000 songs, 200 hours of video, 25,000 photos, or any combination. And you get up to 36 hours of battery life, so you can keep on rocking for a long, long time.

With 160GB of space, iPod classic means you can always have your entire music and movie library with you. Carry it from the living room to a party in the backyard. Or take it on a cross-country road trip and never listen to the same song twice.

Click to Enjoy

Finding exactly what you want to watch or listen to is easy. Use the Click Wheel to browse by album art with Cover Flow or navigate your songs and videos by playlist, artist, album, genre, and more. You can also search for specific titles and artists. Want to mix things up? Click Shuffle Songs for a different experience every time.

Watch Movies and TV Shows

The vivid 2.5-inch display makes video come alive. Purchase or rent movies, buy TV shows, and download video podcasts from the iTunes Store, then sync them to your iPod classic to watch anywhere, anytime.

Play iPod Games

Put hours of fun at your fingertips. iPod classic comes with three games--Vortex, iQuiz, and Klondike--and you can purchase games such as Cake Mania from the iTunes Store. All iPod games are designed specifically for the iPod interface.

Share Your Photos

iPod classic uses iTunes to sync the photos you have in iPhoto on a Mac. You can view photo slideshows complete with music and transitions on iPod classic, or play them on a TV using an optional Apple component or composite AV cable

Apple iPod classic 160 GB (7th Generation) Newest Model.

HTC Inspire 4G Android Phone (AT&T)

2011-04-18T02:24:00.000-07:00

HTC Inspire 4G Android Phone (AT&T)

One of the first smartphones to run on AT&T's ultra-fast 4G mobile broadband network, the Android-powered HTC Inspire 4G features a gorgeous, extra-large 4.3-inch Super LCD touchscreen, and a 1 GHz Snapdragon processor to make quick work of all your social networking, image and video uploads, and e-mail replies. With AT&T's 4G network, you'll enjoy mobile broadband speeds up to 4x faster than AT&T's already fast mobile broadband network.

The Inspire 4G also offers the next-generation HTC Sense user interface experience, which includes quicker startup times from hibernation mode as well as a consolidated view of your favorite social networking sites. You also get the AT&T Mobile Hotspot service built right into the smartphone--enabling you to connect additional Wi-Fi-enabled devices to the phone's mobile broadband signal.

Equal parts speed and beauty, the Inspire 4G is constructed from a single piece of aluminum and includes an 8-megapixel camera with dual-LED flash that can also capture video in HD resolution (720p). With an included Blockbuster app, you'll be able to instantly view movies over Wi-Fi and 3G/4G connections and enjoy stunning audio via the integrated speakers with Dolby Mobile + SRS WOW HD surround sound.

Other features include a 4 GB internal memory, supplied 8 GB microSD memory card, Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, DLNA certification for wireless media streaming to other devices, and up to 6 hours of talk time.

Android Operating System

The Inspire 4G runs the latest Android operating system--OS 2.2 (aka, Froyo)--which provides a faster overall Android experience as well as greater multitasking capabilities. You'll be able to receive notifications, listen to music, and even record GPS data without keeping the application open. And it features a plethora of new enhancements, including an improved onscreen QWERTY keyboard, full push corporate e-mail, and support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1 for access to the full Web. It also offers enhanced Exchange support, with Calendar syncing, Global Address Lookup, improved security, auto-discovery, and more.

With integrated Google technology, the Inspire 4G brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by voice, Google Maps with Street View, GTalk instant messaging (with presence capabilities), YouTube, and Picasa. The Inspire 4G also provides easy access to both personal and corporate e-mail, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. And through Android Market, you'll get access to thousands of useful applications, widgets, and fun games to download and install on your phone, with many more apps being added every day.

HTC Sense Mobile Experience

With the next generation of the popular HTC Sense mobile experience, the HTC Inspire 4G automatically delivers your most-wanted information to your screen. It offers even more ways to stay connected--including FriendStream, which delivers Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr updates in a consolidated view. And you'll be able to pinpoint the location of a lost phone on a map, send a command to make the phone sound an alert--even while on "silent" mode--through the htcsense.com web site. If needed, you can also remotely wipe all of the phone's data with a single command in addition to forwarding calls and text messages to a different number.

HTC Inspire 4G Android Phone (AT&T)

Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield Mount

2011-04-18T02:11:00.000-07:00

Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield Mount.

We have combined our heavy duty suction mount system with a mounting plate. The suction is rated to hold 20 pounds. Once it is attached to your windshield, it isn't coming down unless you want it to by pressing on the suction release. The angle of the mounting plate can be adjusted up and down. Your device attaches to the mounting plate with a heavy duty strip which we provide. We also include a dash plate with double sided tape so that the suction can adhere to your dash.

Review on Amazon.com :

(by Bgon) In California, it is illegal to have anything mounted to your windshield. GPS, Radar Detectors, etc. If an Officer feels inclined to, he can actually pull you over and ticket you for a windshield mounted device.

I have an Escort Passport 9500ix. I was using the windshield mount it came with. However, I noticed that it was rubbing up against my windshield when I drove and (I'm sure) in part to the dual 12's in the back. It was evident that continual use of the supplied windshield mount would eventually lead to a damaged windshield.

This dash mount is working great. It holds my radar detector perfectly still away from the windshield, while obeying one of CA's many ridiculous laws. Plus, it elevates the radar detector to the perfect spot in order to detect laser without jeopardizing radar detection.

Radar Detector Car Dash and Windshield Mount

Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera Review

2011-04-18T01:28:00.000-07:00

Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera : It’s small enough to fit in a pocket, but why would you ever want to put it there? Whether out on the town or just hanging with friends, the Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera captures every experience in stunning 1080p HD video. Stay in focus while you’re on the move with integrated image stabilization. Then kick back and watch all the action on your HDTV or share your scene on YouTube with the built-in USB. The Zi8 pocket video camera has all you need to define yourself in high definition.

Product Features :

Take full HD 1080p videos wherever you go
Get sharper videos and less blur thanks to built-in image stabilization
Premiere your videos in the palm of your hand with the vivid 2.5-inch color LCD
No cables to worry about–just swing out the USB arm to upload, share and charge
Get a new perspective–take amazing 5 MP 16:9 widescreen HD still pictures
Share on Facebook and YouTube with ease–built-in software makes editing and uploading simple
Compatible with PC and MAC (Use with Apple iLife Suite of products) operating systems
Compatible with iTunes for syncing with Apple TV, iPhone and iPod Devices
Plenty of room for more–record up to 10 hours of HD video (Record ~20 min per 1 GB at 720p HD at 30 fps) with the expandable SD/SDHC Card slot that can hold up to 32 GB
Capture your friends in their best light with smart face tracking technology
See more details and accurate colors in low light
Make audio awesome–the external microphone jack lets you record in stereo
Be ready for the big screen right out of the box with complementary HDMI cable
Record from a distance or play back on your TV with ease with available remote control
Grab attention and define your style with the ultra-compact design, stunning looks, and a range of colors

Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera Review

Apple Wireless Keyboard Review

2011-04-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

The completely cable-free Apple Wireless Keyboard uses Bluetooth technology to connect with your Mac or iPad. So you're free to move the keyboard just about anywhere within range and wirelessly type away. And it is slim, compact design takes less space.

Review on amazon.com :

(Roger J. Buffington) : I love Apple products, but must run a Windows 7 system for professional reasons. I greatly envied my daughter's Apple keyboard, and a Bing search indicated that the Apple keyboard would work fine with Windows. Well, it does. There are a few Windows specific keys missing, and a few Mac specific keys that don't do much on this keykboard, but really all the keys that almost all Windows users will want are right here. The keyboard installed on my desktop Windows machine in seconds as a Bluetooth device, and works flawlessly. I had no setup issues whatever. None.

The keyboard itself is a beautiful, minimalist device, but nonetheless constitutes a full-sized keyboard, albeit without the numeric pad. Despite the fact that I am a power touch typist, I have never once used the numeric pad on any keyboard, so I appreciate the notion of giving up the numeric pad in exchange for having a smaller device on the desktop. Not everyone will agree, of course. Also missing are the delete key and the printscreen key. I admit that I miss the delete key, but the destructive backspace key is an adequate substitute.

The keyboard seems to be just the right size for my hands (I am not a big guy) and although it is not one of the curved "ergonomic" keyboards, I find myself quite comfortable typing continuously with this keyboard. The keys themselves have a nice solid feel; most typists will like the feel of these keys.

I like the fact that this keyboard uses readily-available AA batteries. It shuts off when not in use, and springs to life instantly upon the touch of a key. Very good design.

Highly recommended for anyone who does not mind eschewing the numeric keypad, the delete key and printscreen. RJB.

Apple Wireless Keyboard Review

Logitech 1080p Webcam Pro C910

2011-04-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

Logitech HD Pro Webcam C910
Say it bigger. Say it better. High definition video up to 1080p, a wide-angle lens and autofocus for picture quality that's simply amazing. Video chat, blog, stream and upload to Facebook in just one click. The term 'webcam' doesn't quite do it justice. Logitech Fluid Crystal Technology gives you smooth, fluid video. Crystal clear images. Rich colors.

Image-Perfect Tuning: World-class optics, lighting compensation and image processing make your videos, video calls and photos more breathtaking.

Auto Everything: Automatic adjustments for brightness, contrast, color saturation, colors, focus and face tracking make high-quality video calling and recording a breeze.

Internet-Ready Camera: Camcorder-quality videos, digital camera-quality stills and studio-level sound make online video sharing and communications faster, easier and more beautiful.

Full HD 1080p video recording and smooth HD 720p video calling with Logitech Fluid CrystalTM Technology; 1-click video uploading to Facebook and YouTube
Fluid HD 720p video calling with Logitech More HD Technology
5 MP HD sensor, precision Carl Zeiss lens, autofocus and intelligent auto light correction for crystal clear video and brilliant 10 MP photos
Dual built-in noise-cancelling mics let friends hear you in rich, clear HD-quality stereo
Works with Logitech VidTM HD, SkypeTM, Yahoo® Messenger, Microsoft LiveTM Messenger

Logitech 1080p Webcam Pro C910

Roku XDS Streaming Player 1080p Review

2011-04-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

Roku is a little box that allows you to instantly stream tons of entertainment on your TV. Watch over 100,000 movies and TV shows from Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, and more. Listen to music on Pandora, or listen to your own iTunes playlists. Even watch major sports, news, or original Internet programming. It's all available whenever you want it. The all-new, top-of-the-line Roku XDS sets a new standard with 1080p streaming video, the latest wireless technology, and Instant Replay. All for under $100. No wonder Roku is the best selling streaming player ever.

* Works with any TV—up to 1080p*. The XDS delivers the biggest and best streaming video experience you can get.

* It's really easy. Be up and running in 5 minutes. Roku works with any TV.

* No PC needed. Roku connects to your high speed Internet connection wirelessly. With the XDS, you get extended-range, dual-band Wireless-N performance.

* No extra monthly bills.Use your existing subscriptions (like Netflix or Hulu Plus), or enjoy free and on-demand content (like Pandora, Flickr, and Amazon Instant Video).

* It's always getting better. Roku is constantly expanding its library of streaming entertainment, so there will always be something new to watch.

Roku XDS Streaming Player 1080p Review

Nokia Launches New Symbian Smartphones

2011-04-17T08:41:00.003-07:00

Nokia Launches New Symbian Smartphones... Nokia said it will use Microsoft Corp.'s Windows Phone software as the main platform for its smartphones in an effort to recover lost share from the iPhone and RIM's Blackberry. But Nokia said it will continue to develop and use the new Symbian software...

Nokia Corp. on Tuesday launched its first smartphones to run on the updated Symbian software with new icons, enhancements and a faster browser.

Nokia said the two models — the E6 and X7 — have longer battery life, better text input and new Ovi Maps applications with improved search and public transport routes.

The Nokia E6, with a standard QWERTY keypad and high resolution touch display, is aimed at corporate customers, while the Nokia X7 is an entertainment-focused handset with a 4-inch (10-centimeter) display made for games.

The world's largest cellphone maker did not price the handsets.

Markets seemed unimpressed by the announcement, which comes as Nokia continues to struggle against stiff competition, especially from Apple Inc. and Research in Motion.

Nokia stock fell more than 1.5 percent to euro6.18 ($8.92) in afternoon trading in Helsinki.

More than 200 million phones, with 150 million more expected on the market, use Symbian technology, seen by some developers as clumsy and dated. At the end of last year, it was surpassed by Android as the world's No. 1 smart phone software.

Nokia said the new, faster Symbian software, known as Symbian Anna, will be available for previously released top models, including the N8, E7, C7 and C6-01 devices "in coming months."

In February, Nokia and Microsoft surprised the industry by announcing they were joining forces to challenge major rivals — Apple's iPhone and Android, Google's software for phones and tablets.

Nokia said it will use Microsoft Corp.'s Windows Phone software as the main platform for its smartphones in an effort to recover lost share from the iPhone and RIM's Blackberry. But Nokia said it will continue to develop and use the new Symbian software.

The company, which claims 1.3 billion daily users of its devices, said it hopes the partnership with Microsoft will lead to capturing the next billion users to join the Internet in developing growth markets.

Nokia, an Espoo-based company, near Helsinki, employs 132,500 people.

Nokia Launches New Symbian Smartphones

BlackBerry PlayBook review

2011-04-17T08:41:00.002-07:00

BlackBerry PlayBook review... The PlayBook supports Flash video playback — something the iPad doesn't do — and HTML5 for rich video content. Thus, you can browse the Web much the way you do on a computer. There are a few annoying quirks: For example, the PlayBook took a long time when scrolling through long documents or Web pages...

You need three things to compete with Apple's iPad tablet computer: A gorgeous, easy-to-use device that people will love, a bustling app store and an attractive price tag.

Nobody has been able to match the iPad thus far. But the PlayBook, the first effort from BlackBerry smartphone maker Research In Motion, has emerged as one of the strongest contenders.

On the surface, the PlayBook looks similar to other iPad competitors: Its slick touch screen measures 7 inches diagonally, smaller than the iPad's but comparable with those of others. It has front and rear cameras for snapping photos and video conferencing and a black rubberized plastic back and sides.

What's different is the software powering the PlayBook. Most non-iPad tablets use Google's Android software; RIM developed its own — a smart decision, yielding a device that is a pleasure to navigate and filled with cool features. Although RIM's software was built from scratch, it has hints of the BlackBerry phone's interface.

When it goes on sale on Tuesday, the cheapest version will cost $499 — the same as the cheapest iPad. It comes with Wi-Fi capabilities and 16 gigabytes of memory. A model with 32 GB will cost $599, and the 64 GB version will go for $699. Sprint plans a version that works over cellular connections this summer, rivaling the iPad's ability to connect on AT&T's network.

Unfortunately, the PlayBook isn't yet much of a competitor on the app front: There are just 3,000 applications currently optimized for the tablet, and during my testing it appeared unable to download App World apps available for BlackBerry smartphones.

By contrast, there are more than 65,000 apps available for the iPad, which can also run iPhone apps (Apple offers more than 350,000 apps total). And while it's unclear exactly how many tablet-specific Apps there are for Android, Android tablets can run any of the more than 150,000 apps in the Android Market.

But the PlayBook aims to catch up, in a way: Later this year, it will be able to run Android apps, too.

In my hands, the PlayBook felt solid and easy to use. There are just a few buttons on the top for adjusting volume and playing or pausing music or videos. There's also a tiny button for turning on the device — so teeny, in fact, that I regretted trimming my nails right before testing.

Finding my way around the PlayBook was delightfully easy and fast because it has a speedy processor.

At the top of the main page sit device settings and alerts for things such as software updates. Across the bottom, you see a scroll of apps that you can swipe through or expand to fill the screen by swiping a finger upward.

In the middle of the screen are small thumbnails of your open apps; you can slide your finger left or right to sort through these and pick or dismiss them with a tap or a flick.

One cool feature: Open apps remain active even when you're looking at them from this view. So if you open the camera and later sort through your open apps, the viewfinder will still be working in the tiny thumbnail of the camera app.

Even though the Blackberry PlayBook is smaller than the iPad, its screen was bright, colors looked rich and images were sharp. I felt immersed watching videos — a combination of the excellent display and simple frame surrounding.

The PlayBook supports Flash video playback — something the iPad doesn't do — and HTML5 for rich video content. Thus, you can browse the Web much the way you do on a computer. There are a few annoying quirks: For example, the PlayBook took a long time when scrolling through long documents or Web pages.

In general, though, the PlayBook's screen was very touch sensitive, and I especially liked how the PlayBook takes advantage of it. Instead of hitting the power button to wake up the device, you can make one long swipe upward with a finger.

When using an application, a long upward swipe will bring you back to the main page that shows the settings and your applications. Make a hard swipe to the left or right to flip through your other open applications. Another neat trick: You can zoom in on Flash videos by spreading two fingers on the screen.

Like so many other tablets, the PlayBook includes cameras for taking photos and videos and for video chatting. On the rear, the PlayBook sports a pretty simple 5-megapixel camera that took decent photos (no flash, though) and videos. The 3-megapixel front camera is probably more suited to video calls. I wasn't able to try it, though, as RIM isn't planning to roll out a video chat app until after the device is available.

Of course, RIM is known for its focus on business users, and the PlayBook can do plenty of work, too. It includes word processing, spreadsheet and slideshow apps and can easily be attached to an HD TV through its Micro HDMI port (for presentations or, if you're like me, streaming online movies to a flat screen). Its onscreen virtual keyboard was surprisingly accurate and took very little time to get used to.

And if you have a BlackBerry phone, a nifty feature called BlackBerry Bridge links the two devices over Bluetooth. When I tested it, it wasn't fully functional. But it promises to let you easily do things on the tablet such as using the BlackBerry Messenger app on your phone and accessing BlackBerry e-mails and calendar. For a business user who feels constrained by the BlackBerry's small screen, this could be a nice complement.

RIM expects the PlayBook to get eight to 10 hours of battery life while multitasking. I got about six hours while surfing the Web, streaming Internet radio, checking e-mails and streaming videos. Maybe this was actually a hint that I should limit my music video habit.

The PlayBook is an impressive tablet — it has to be, considering the iPad's head start. And if RIM can ramp up its app offerings, it will be an even heartier contender.

Source : yahoo.com

BlackBerry PlayBook review

Acer Iconia Tab A100 Review

2011-04-17T08:41:00.001-07:00

Acer Iconia Tab A100 Review : The price of Acer Iconia Tab A100 it’s 483$, and can be bought starting from 20 April. It has a 7 inch display, and a hardware platform based on Tegra 2. The processor it’s a dual core of 1Ghz and, only 512 MB RAM

Acer announced the release of the new Tab, called Iconia A100 on April 20. After the huge success of Ipad, many manufactures are trying to create tabs to compete with the big Apple. However, the market it’s almost owned by Apple, by 70%. In the next lines you will find a review of the Acer Iconia Tab A100, and we will try to tell you if it’s worth buying one.

The Acer Iconia Tab A100, it’s a tablet that run’s on Android 3.0 system, and it’s a low-cost gadget. Acer it’s trying to create a useful pad, at a competitive price. The price of Acer Iconia Tab A100 it’s 483$, and can be bought starting from 20 April. It has a 7 inch display, and a hardware platform based on Tegra 2. The processor it’s a dual core of 1Ghz and, only 512 MB RAM. The storage it’s supplied by a memory card of 8 GB.

The list of facilities also includes Bluetooth module and 803.11n Wifi connectivity. On the front, you can find a 2MP camera, for video conferences, and a 5MP camera with autofocus and Led flash on the back. The memory card can be extended up to 32Gb capacity.

The new tab from Acer can be connected on the PC by a Micro USB interface and also Multimedia, HDMI connector.

Like all the tabs, and smartphones, even the Acer Iconia has an accelerometer, gyroscope, and digital compass. The screen resolution it’s 600 x 1024 pixles.

When I was asked to review the new Acer Iconia Tab A100, I first noticed, the weight. It’s not really the lightest gadget in the world. It has 450 grams, and 470 grams, the 3G version.
Looking forward to see what impact this new tab will have on the market.

Acer Iconia Tab A100 Review

Lenovo IdeaCentre A700 review

2011-04-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

Lenovo IdeaCentre A700 review : On the bottom of the screen you can find a bad with LEDs. It’s used to illuminate the keyboard when you want to work at night with the lights off. The size of the Lenovo IdeaCentre A700 it’s similar to the power supply from gaming laptops...

The market for PC’s All-in-one is low yet. Very few people are thinking to save space on the desk by using this kind of PC. Almost everybody’s looking to buy a monitor, and a desktop PC . The price for all in one pc’s is also much bigger than a common computer.

We will present a review of Lenovo Idea Centre A 700, that will make you understand if it’s worth buying. We are very interested to see what impact this computer from Lenovo will produce.

Under the Lenovo A700’s screen, behind the shiny grilles have been placed two JBL speakers signed. For most users, they can replace a small sound system. On the right side of the pc, you can find an optical drive, and on opposite side, the system connectors. The others are placed on the bottom of the screen. The one from the right are actually touch-sensitive buttons, used to adjust brightness and speaker volume.

On the bottom of the screen you can find a bad with LEDs. It’s used to illuminate the keyboard when you want to work at night with the lights off. The size of the Lenovo IdeaCentre A700 it’s similar to the power supply from gaming laptops . The maximum power it’s 150 W .

Specifications :
Display: 23.1 “, 1920×1080, capacitive touch screen, LED
CPU: Intel Core i5-480M, 2.66 GHz, 3 MB Cache, 2.93 GHzTurbo Boost, HT, 35 W TDP
Chipset: Intel HM55
RAM: 2 x 2 GB DDR3 1333 MHz
Integrated GPU: Intel HD Graphics
Dedicated GPU: ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650, 1GB DDR3
HDD: 1 TB, 3.5 “, 7200 RPM, 32 MB buffer
Optical Drive: DVD RW
Network: LAN, 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth
Connectors: 6 x USB 2.0, Firewire, HDMI in, HDMI out, A / V in,SPDIF
Dimensions: -
Weight: 9.7 kg

Other: Wireless keyboard and mouse, webcam, SD and MScard reader, JBL audio system

Lenovo IdeaCentre A700 review

Toshiba's Energy - Saving E205 Laptop

2011-04-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

Toshiba is one of the first PC makers to use a new Intel (INTC) technology called Wireless Display, or WiDi. It creates a wireless network that pairs the laptop with a Netgear (NTGR) Push2TV receiver that's included with the computer's purchase. This lets users easily display images from the E205 on a big-screen TV. Once the connection is established, it takes just a button push in Intel's Wireless Display software to initiate the transfer.

Toshiba's Energy - Saving E205 Laptop...

For the past couple of years, retail giant Best Buy (BBY) has been putting more of its own stamp on laptops for consumers at its stores. Toshiba's recently introduced E205-S1904 Satellite laptop is one collaborative result. The verdict: It's a $999 laptop with snappy performance and the ability to beam videos to a big-screen TV, but it has too many mechanical flaws for me to recommend it wholeheartedly.

Toshiba designed the E205 as part of Best Buy's "Blue Label" program. The retailer uses the program to influence product design so computing will be easier for consumers, based on what they've said they want. Toshiba seems to have taken the name literally: The laptop's royal blue, molded-plastic case feels cheap, compared to other Toshiba models. Its glossy lid shows too many fingerprints and smudges.

The E205 features a springy keyboard and big touchpad. But a further construction flaw I found was that the left and right mouse buttons are very hard to reach. Even with large hands, I had to stop typing to stretch my thumbs down and apply enough force to click the stiff buttons.

While the laptop's overall appearance wasn't to my liking, there's a lot to be impressed with. The Toshiba laptop takes other, more useful design cues from Best Buy recommendations for Blue Label products. On the left side, there are jacks for a headphone and microphone, as well as a USB input. Designers moved the heat-dissipation vents to that side instead of the bottom, where on many notebooks they end up grilling one's knees. The E205's right side includes a slot-loading DVD player, a conventional USB port, and another USB input that accepts eSata cable, too. There's also an HD multimedia (HDMI) output.

WiDi for image display on TV

Above the keyboard, there's an ambient-light sensor that automatically adjusts the brightness settings on the energy-saving, 14.1-inch, HD-resolution, LED-backlit screen. To the right of the keyboard, there's a touch-control panel to adjust the volume and playback of music and videos. The keyboard is nicely backlit as well, which helps in low-light situations.

There are a couple of caveats. The technology doesn't currently work with copy-protected DVDs. And the laptop's display is disabled during the transfer, so users can't do something else on the laptop—such as deal with e-mail—while watching videos or listening to music.

Overall performance was nimble. The laptop runs on Intel's new Core i5 processor and includes a generous 4 gigabytes of memory, which can be expanded up to 8 GB. The 500-GB hard drive is generous for a laptop in the E205's price range. Battery life is a fairly typical 3.5 hours when running video at normal screen brightness.

some graphics chips unwelcome

Toshiba decided to use the 64-bit version of Microsoft's (MSFT) Windows 7 Home Premium operating system, which processes data in larger chunks than the 32-bit version. The E205 had no problems running multiple programs simultaneously. It worked without a hitch when I played video and listened to music at the same time, using Apple's (AAPL) iTunes software.

Intel's integrated graphics chip always seems to need a few seconds to work out the kinks when playing video, and this system was no different. An odd quirk of the E205 and other WiDi-equipped laptops is that users can't easily add more potent graphics chips from Nvidia (NVDA) or ATI (AMD). That could limit the machine's appeal for video game players. Intel executives say PC makers can create software that would let them add other graphics chips to their machines.

The E205 comes with a trial version of Microsoft Office and Works and Symantec's (SYMC) Norton Internet Security. There's also Best Buy's Software Installer application, which contains a list of programs and Web sites—including Netflix (NFLX), Roxio Creator (SNIC), and The Wall Street Journal (NWS)—that can quickly be installed. It's a neat way to shop for software to personalize your computer without being hobbled by preinstalled clutter you don't want.

The Toshiba E205's design may not work for everyone, but it's a powerful and affordable laptop whose innovation and ease of use packs a wallop.

Toshiba's Energy - Saving E205 Laptop Review

Samsung Galaxy S II Siap Diluncurkan

2011-04-17T01:26:00.000-07:00

Samsung Galaxy S II Siap Diluncurkan : Harganya sendiri belum terungkap. Namun sebuah situs di Inggris sudah memasang banderol sekitar USD 880 atau Rp 7,6 juta. Cukup mahal memang jika harga ini benar...

Jika Anda menggandrungi ponsel berbasis Google Andoid, ada selentingan kabar baik. Samsung, salah satu raksasa vendor asal Korea Selatan yang agresif merilis ponsel Android, mengumumkan akan menghadirkan anggota baru Samsung Galaxy S.

Samsung Galaxy S II terindikasi akan ditingkatkan performa prosesornya, menjadi 1,2 GHz dual core. Semula perubahan ini dinyatakan membuat peluncuran Galaxy S II tertunda, namun Samsung mengkonfirmasi jadwal rilis tidak berubah.

Sejumlah sumber, termasuk halaman Facebook resmi Samsung wilayah Estonia, mengkonfirmasi upgrade prosesor di Galaxy S II dari rencana awal yang 'cuma' 1 GHz dual core. Sedangkan sumber dari media terkemuka, GSMArena, juga menyatakan kebenaran berita tersebut.

Kabarnya, perbaikan prosesor ini membutuhkan waktu sehingga Galaxy S II tidak akan diluncurkan sebelum bulan Juni. Namun Samsung mengklarifikasi bahwa ponsel berbasis Android Gingerbread tersebut tetap dipasarkan sesuai jadwal, yakni mulai akhir April atau awal Mei ini. "Samsung Galaxy S II pertama kali akan meluncur bulan April, sesuai rencana. Handset ini akan berangsur-angsur menghampiri setiap pasar menurut jadwal peluncuran lokal," demikian tertulis di akun Twitter SamsungTomorrow, diberitakan eWeek.

Hanya saja tidak disebut di mana saja Galaxy S II akan meluncur pertama kali, mungkin baru terbatas di beberapa negara. Ponsel cerdas ini bakal jadi handset andalan Samsung melawan kompetitor beratnya, semisal LG Optimus 2X yang juga mengusung prosesor dual core.

Harganya sendiri belum terungkap. Namun sebuah situs di Inggris sudah memasang banderol sekitar USD 880 atau Rp 7,6 juta. Cukup mahal memang jika harga ini benar.

Smartphone ini berukuran sangat langsing, bahkan diklaim tertipis di dunia. Ketebalannya cuma 8,49 milimeter dan berat hanya 4,09 ons.

Sama seperti Google Nexus S yang juga mereka produksi, Galaxy S II diperlengkapi dengan fitur NFC alias Near Field Communication. Fasilitas ini memungkinkan transaksi pembayaran dilakukan via ponsel.

Samsung Galaxy S II Siap Diluncurkan

Google Maps Pecahkan Rekor 50 Juta kali Download

2011-04-17T01:14:00.000-07:00

Google Maps Pecahkan Rekor 50 Juta kali Download : Google telah menyempurnakan GPS turn-by-turn software, Navigasi, dan bahkan menawarkan akses satu-klik dengan fungsi GPS sebagai fitur built-in pada ponsel Android yang lebih baru...

Aplikasi Google Maps memegang rekor baru sebagai aplikasi pertama di Android Market dengan jumlah unduhan hingga 50 juta kali.

Pencapaian ini menjadi sebuah fakta bahwa Google Maps merupakan aplikasi wajib bagi semua perangkat Android.

Selain mesin pencarinya, peta berbasis GPS ini sangat fenomenal. Walaupun demikian.
Google Maps adalah bagian yang hebat dari perangkat lunak ponsel.

Aplikasi Google Maps ini adalah salah satu fitur unggulan ketika Android pertama kali diluncurkan pada 2008.

Apalagi kelebihan aplikasi ini adalah menawarkan fitur navigasi, lokasi dan gambar secara real time, tidak seperti apa iPhone atau perangkat mobile yang ditawarkan.

Sejak itu versi mobile dari Google Maps telah menjadi cara utama bagi pengguna untuk menemukan jalan mereka di sekitar kota, mencari restoran terdekat, atau hanya digunakan sebagai perangkat GPS standar. Demikian diberitakan TG Daily.

Google telah menyempurnakan GPS turn-by-turn software, Navigasi, dan bahkan menawarkan akses satu-klik dengan fungsi GPS sebagai fitur built-in pada ponsel Android yang lebih baru.

Perusahaan asal California ini sendiri berencana untuk terus mengembangkan Google Maps secara canggih dan terhubung dengan berbagai aplikasi lainnya yang dibuat oleh Google.

Google Maps Pecahkan Rekor 50 Juta kali Download

Lenovo Luncurkan Komputer Tablet Bongsor ala Apple

2011-04-17T01:03:00.000-07:00

Lenovo Luncurkan Komputer Tablet Bongsor ala Apple : Kami pikir tablet berukuran 23 inci punya potensi," kata Cai. Ia mengakui, mungkin tablet ini memang tidak terlalu mobile. Namun, kata dia, tablet ini bisa berguna saat digunakan di ruangan-ruangan rumah

Kelebihan utama tablet PC tentu terletak pada desainnya yang ringkas dan mudah dibawa kemanapun. Oleh karena itu, cukup aneh mendengar isu bahwa Lenovo berencana mengeluarkan tablet berukuran 23 inci.

Kini para vendor komputer tak malu-malu lagi mengikuti jejak Apple yang sukses dengan iPad, dengan meluncurkan berbagai komputer tablet versi mereka.

Bahkan tahun ini Lenovo berencana untuk meluncurkan tablet berukuran 'raksasa', yakni komputer tablet dengan layar sebesar 23 inci.

Kabar itu diumumkan langsung oleh William Cai, Senior Specialist Marketing Lenovo saat menghadiri sebuah dialog di ajang Gadget Show Live. "Kami berharap, tablet ini bisa diluncurkan akhir tahun ini," ujar Cai, seperti dikutip situs TechRadar.

Langkah ini tentu saja cukup mengejutkan, karena biasanya konsumen mengutamakan aspek mobilitas dan portabilitas untuk sebuah komputer tablet. Namun, Lenovo sangat optimistis bahwa pasar akan merespon dengan baik.

"Kami pikir tablet berukuran 23 inci punya potensi," kata Cai. Ia mengakui, mungkin tablet ini memang tidak terlalu mobile. Namun, kata dia, tablet ini bisa berguna saat digunakan di ruangan-ruangan rumah.

Apalagi, Cai menjelaskan, tablet ini bisa dipakai menggunakan papan kunci, atau juga sebagai televisi. "Atau Anda juga bisa memasangnya di meja untuk bermain game bersama keluarga," kata Cai.

Tentu saja, Cai mengakui tantangan yang dihadapi dalam mengembangkan tablet 'bongsor' ini.

Misalnya saja, ukuran yang besar, tentu saja akan menyebabkan penggunaan baterai yang boros dan mengupayakan bobot tablet untuk tidak terlalu berat.

Apalagi, harga layar sentuh sebesar itu tentu saja pasti akan membuat tablet itu menjadi sangat mahal.

Lenovo sendiri baru merilis tablet Android LePad di China, akhir Maret lalu. Pertama kali diperkenalkan pada event Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2011 di Las Vegas Januari lalu, LePad memiliki layar berwarna dengan ukuran 10.1 inci dan terhubung ke internet menggunakan layanan 3G atau WiFi.

Lenovo Luncurkan Komputer Tablet Bongsor ala Apple

BenQ R100 Tablet Android Froyo Terbaru

2011-04-16T06:51:00.000-07:00

BenQ R100 Tablet Android Froyo Terbaru... Tablet ini mendukung WiFi dan Bluetooth, memiliki kamera 3MP, dan output HDMI. Sistem Operasi yang digunakan adalah Google Android 2.2 Froyo. AkihabaraNew melaporkan tablet ini memiliki baterai 29.4Whr dan beratnya hanya di bawah 1,6 pon

BenQ mungkin paling dikenal sebagai produsen monitor komputer, tetapi perusahaan ini juga menawarkan netbook dan komputer, dan sekarang BenQ sudah menjual tablet Android 10 inci di Cina. Tablet ini disebut BenQ R100 dan memiliki bandrol harga sekitar $ 470 atau 4 jutaan rupiah.

BenQ R100 memiliki prosesor 833 MHz Samsung S5PC100, 512MB RAM, 8GB kapasitas penyimpanan, dan 1024 x 600 piksel layar touchscreen. Tablet ini mendukung Wi-Fi dan Bluetooth, memiliki kamera 3MP, dan output HDMI. Sistem Operasi yang digunakan adalah Google Android 2.2 Froyo. AkihabaraNew melaporkan tablet ini memiliki baterai 29.4Whr dan beratnya hanya di bawah 1,6 pon.

BenQ R100 Tablet Android Froyo Terbaru

Speaker Dock Keren untuk iPod, iPhone dan iPad

2011-04-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

Speaker Dock Keren untuk iPad, iPhone dan iPod... loudspeaker docking station OnBeat yang bisa digunakan untuk iPad, iPhone dan iPod. Speaker dock ini juga memiliki fitur Phoenix dual full-range transducers penuh dengan equalization DSP yang dioptimalkan komputer untuk soundstage 360 derajat yang detail...

JBL, bagian dari Harman International, telah meluncurkan loudspeaker docking station OnBeat yang bisa digunakan untuk iPad, iPhone dan iPod. OnBeat ini memiliki styling desain JBL Weave dinamis dan memungkinkan Anda untuk memutar layar iPod dan iPhone untuk orientasi potrait atau lanskap untuk tampilan video terbaik. Speaker dock ini juga memiliki fitur Phoenix dual full-range transducers penuh dengan equalization DSP yang dioptimalkan komputer untuk soundstage 360 derajat yang detail.

JBL OnBeat menyertakan output komposit untuk menampilkan konten video di TV. Menawarkan sambungan USB ke perangkat sync dan dikenakan biaya apabila tersambung ke perpustakaan musik iTunes, dan mini-stereo jack 3.5mm auxiliary input yang dapat dihubungkan ke hampir semua perangkat media portabel. IR remote control disertakan bagi Anda untuk menavigasi menu iPod dan iPhone dari jarak hingga 15 meter jauhnya.

Speaker Dock Keren untuk iPod, iPhone dan iPad

Samsung Tic Toc review

2011-04-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

Samsung TicToc review... Fortunately for Samsung, the Tic Toc is actually a pretty handy little MP3 player. Chunkier and more rounded than the iPod Shuffle and Archos Clipper, it’s nonetheless a smart piece of kit. The egg cup-shaped dock is neat and means the Tic Toc doesn’t....

Decent performance, clearly aimed at the young female market.

The budget end of the MP3 player market has become more crowded than a Tube platform at rush hour in recent years. Not content to leave Archos, Apple and co to it, Samsung has rocked up with the Tic Toc, a screen-free music player that’s billed by the Korean tech titan as being, “…for young women who want the latest fashion gadgets.”

Whether the “Hello Kitty” model we reviewed counts as being fashionable is questionable. Tacky paint jobs and garish colours should not be a byword for marketing MP3 players to women. A gadget should stand and fall on its usability and build, everything else is irrelevant, although the early teen users this is aimed at will probably love it.

Fortunately for Samsung, the Tic Toc is actually a pretty handy little MP3 player. Chunkier and more rounded than the iPod Shuffle and Archos Clipper, it’s nonetheless a smart piece of kit. The egg cup-shaped dock is neat and means the Tic Toc doesn’t simply hang out of the side of your PC in unsightly fashion.

It’s also loaded with a set of great playback functions. By shaking the Tic Toc three times, you can skip through different modes to match your mood. There’s normal, which plays back tunes in order, shuffle and then fast and slow modes. The latter pair are the Tic Toc’s real calling card. Shaking it to fast was great when we took it out for a workout and kept us pushing on as we started to flag.

The headphones are surprisingly sharp for an MP3 player which comes in at around £30. Sound is relatively rich and offers decent detail, especially when compared to those bundled with the Tic Toc’s Apple and Archos competitors. The 4GB of storage is more than ample and seeing as it costs about £10 less than the 2GB iPod Shuffle, it’s not a bad option for those after an MP3 player to take down the gym.

While MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg and FLAC are all supported, although Ogg and FLAC lovers will want a more capacious effort than this. The PC software isn't very good though but you get Mac support.

For the young female market the TicToc is clearly aimed at it works well, but otherwise if you’re in the market for a cheap MP3 player, Archos and Apple offer better alternatives.

Samsung TicToc review

Privacy flaw in Skype Android app exposed

2011-04-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

Privacy flaw in Skype Android app exposed... The Contacts table holds similar information, but on friends, family and anyone else in your contact list (that is, more than Skype exposes on other users publicly). Moving further along, looking into the Chats table, we can see your instant messages – and that's just the tip of it. Scary

Skype "working to protect you" from vulnerability.

Skype has acknowledged a dangerous flaw in its Android app which leaves the private data of its users open to be exploided by malicious apps.

While the app itself hasn't been giving the data up to snoopers, the design of the app leaves a database file unencrypted, leaving things like your username and password, email address, address and phone number exposed.

If a user has a malicious app installed on their Android phone then those details can be pilfered and sent back to the shady individual in question.

In a brief blog post, Skype has said it is "working to protect you from this vulnerability."

The flaw was discovered by the super sleuths at AndroidPolice.com who posted the following information :

"The most interesting file one can gain access to is main.db. The accounts table in this database holds information such as account balance, full name, date of birth, city/state/country, home phone, office phones, cell phone, email addresses, your webpage, your bio, and more.

"The Contacts table holds similar information, but on friends, family and anyone else in your contact list (that is, more than Skype exposes on other users publicly). Moving further along, looking into the Chats table, we can see your instant messages – and that's just the tip of it. Scary.

"This means that a rogue developer could modify an existing application…, distribute that application on the Market, and just watch as all that private user information pours in. While the exploit can't steal your credit card info, the data it's harvesting is still clearly very private (chat logs linked back to your real name, address, and phone number)."

Privacy flaw in Skype Android app exposed

White iPhone in stores by end of April

2011-04-14T10:19:00.000-07:00

White iPhone in stores by end of April... With recent reports suggesting that the launch of the next-generation iPhone may be some way off, the release of a white iPhone may be enough to keep the popular product in the headlines, boosting sales at the same time

When we tell you that the long-awaited white iPhone will be in stores by the end of April, you may well ask, Yeah, but April what year?

A report from Bloomberg Businessweek says that according to three unnamed sources who are apparently familiar with Apple’s plans, the white iPhone will be lining up alongside its black counterpart by the end of this month – that’s within the next sixteen days.

AT&T and Verizon Wireless will be distributing the phones to patient customers who for the last 10 months have been hanging on and hanging on (possibly clinging on by this stage).

When Steve Jobs proudly announced the coming of the white iPhone last year, few expected to have to wait this long to see it in stores. Due to a number of manufacturing issues, which included paint peeling when the product became hot, the launch was delayed. It seems that now, however, these problems have been overcome.

With recent reports suggesting that the launch of the next-generation iPhone may be some way off, the release of a white iPhone may be enough to keep the popular product in the headlines, boosting sales at the same time.

But will the addition of merely a new color be enough for Apple to maintain the edge in an increasingly crowded smartphone market? Only time will tell.

And for anyone still doubting the coming of the white iPhone, further evidence pointing to an April launch came in the form of a tweet from Apple’s senior vice president of marketing, Phil Schiller. The March 14 message reads: The white iPhone will be available this spring (and it is a beauty!).

For those keen to get their mitts on a white iPhone, things are looking up – Phil even says which spring.

White iPhone in stores by end of April

iPhone Putih Siap Diluncurkan

2011-04-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

iPhone putih akan tersedia di IT&T Inc dan Verizon Communications Inc pada akhir April ini. Dan sebetulnya CEO Apple Steve Jobs pun pernah akan meluncurkan iPhone putih pada saat peluncuran iPhone 4, Juni tahun lalu. Namun peluncuran itu ditunda karena ada masalah dengan perusahaan manufaktur...

Dua perusahaan Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd (Hong Kong) dan Taiwan Foxconn Technology Group dikabarkan telah mendapat izin merakit iPhone putih.

Kedua perusahaan itu tutup mulut perihal rencana memproduksi iPhone putih. Demikian juga Apple tidak bersedia memberikan keterangan rinci. Namun sebulan lalu Vice Presiden Marketing Senior Phil Schiller melalui posting di Twitter Maret lalu, menyebutkan bahwa iPhone berwarna putih akan tersedia dalam waktu dekat atau musim semi tahun ini.

Bloomberg melaporkan iPhone putih akan tersedia di IT&T Inc dan Verizon Communications Inc pada akhir April ini. Dan sebetulnya CEO Apple Steve Jobs pun pernah akan meluncurkan iPhone putih pada saat peluncuran iPhone 4, Juni tahun lalu. Namun peluncuran itu ditunda karena ada masalah dengan perusahaan manufaktur.

Banyak operator telelekomunikasi telah bersemangat menjual iPhone putih ini. Tahun lalu pun China Mobile Ltd, operator seluler terbesar di dunia, telah membicarakan dengan Apple, untuk mendapatkan hak distribusi bagi handset.

Lebih dari 16 juta iPhone terjual pada kuartal terakhir 2010. Dan terhitung lebih dari sepertiga dari penjualan Apple di tiga bulan.

iPhone Putih Siap Diluncurkan

Intel Launches Chip For Tablet Computers

2011-04-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

Intel launches chip for tablet computers... As for smartphones, Intel says a processor for that market is scheduled for release later this year. Intel, based in Santa Clara, Calif., has not announced specifications for those chips

Intel Corp. has launched a new chip for tablet computers, as the world's most powerful semiconductor company aims to become a contender in the market for mobile chips.

Intel's chips are in 80 percent of laptops and desktop PCs, but it's had less success getting its chips into smaller devices such as cellphones and tablets. Known for pushing the processing speeds of its chips to the limit, energy efficiency has now become critical for Intel as gadgets and their batteries get smaller, testing the limits of engineering in a different way. And with more consumers starting to opt to buy tablets instead of upgrading their PCs, Intel is looking to diversify its revenue sources.

Intel's chips have been maligned as too power-hungry for the smallest of mobile devices, a criticism Intel is hoping its new chips address. Intel is trying to elbow in to a mobile market dominated by lower-power processors from companies such as Qualcomm Inc. and Texas Instruments Inc. Apple Inc. designs its own chip for the iPad.

Intel also faces a challenge in that mobile chips are generally built around a different chip design, from a company called ARM Holdings Inc., than the so-called x86 design that Intel uses. Intel said Monday that more than 35 tablet and "hybrid" computers are being built on its newest chip, which is part of the Atom family of chips.

As for smartphones, Intel says a processor for that market is scheduled for release later this year. Intel, based in Santa Clara, Calif., has not announced specifications for those chips.

Intel has a history of dabbling in, and retreating from, the wireless business, so the company's success in this market is not a foregone conclusion.

It sold its mobile-chip business in 2006, then last year bought the wireless-chip division of Germany's Infineon Technologies AG for $1.4 billion. With that deal, Intel bought its way back in to a booming market, but only got a bit player. The Infineon division, while notching some high-profile wins such as Apple's iPhone, only owned about 5 percent of the total market for processors and other communications chips for mobile phones, according to Gartner Inc.

Analysts are split about Intel's prospects. Some say Intel is too late to the game to score any major market share. Others caution that Intel, with $11.7 billion in net income last year on $43.6 billion in revenue, has plenty of money to pour into making its mobile division a winner.

Intel launches chip for tablet computers

Microsoft : not to jailbreak Windows Phone 7

2011-04-08T23:07:00.000-07:00

Microsoft asks users not to jailbreak Windows Phone 7... Unofficial updates are not supported by Microsoft, which says that “you might not be getting the important device-specific software we would typically deliver in the official update...

Microsoft asks users not to jailbreak Windows Phone 7.. Users have been jailbreaking their Windows Phone 7 devices to get quick access to an official update Microsoft has used its Windows Phone 7 update blog to ask users not to jailbreak their handsets so that they can upgrade to a new operating system that includes copy and paste.

Eric Hautala, General Manager of Customer Experience Engineering, writes that the firm is “not going to be happy until everyone gets their update”. He says, however, that although “we’ve started delivering the March “copy and paste” update to customers of O2 and SFR in Europe…I’ve noticed that some of you are turning to homebrew solutions to update your phone immediately.”

Jailbreaking is the practice of giving an individual user more control over their phone than the manufacturers of the hardware or software intended.

Hautala says that “As an engineer and a gadget lover, I totally understand the impulse to tinker. You want the latest technology and you’re tired of waiting. Believe me, I get it. But my strong advice is: wait.”

Unofficial updates are not supported by Microsoft, which says that “you might not be getting the important device-specific software we would typically deliver in the official update. Or your phone might get misconfigured and not receive future updates. It’s even possible your phone might stop working properly.”

Hautala continues, “Bottom line: unsupported workarounds put you in uncharted territory that may void your phone warranty.”

Users, however, have been keen to point out that they’re only jailbreaking phones because Microsoft has been slow to roll-out the update. Google Android and Apple’s iOS rival operating systems both already offer copy and paste, among other features.

Microsoft asks users not to jailbreak Windows Phone 7

BlackBerry Produksi Ponsel Layar Sentuh

2011-04-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

BlackBerry Produksi Ponsel Layar Sentuh... Sebagai produk layar sentuh pertama, BlackBerry menyediakan tampilan beresolusi tinggi yakni 480X800. RIM merencanakan peluncurkan produk BlackBerry Touch ini pada awal Mei

Sebuah bocoran video yang bersumber dari Research In Motion (RIM) memunculkan gambar model terbaru BlackBerry Touch 6.1, yang dijuluki Monaco.

RIM membenarkan bahwa akan segera meluncurkan produk terbarunya BlackBerry Touch Monaco versi CDMA, dengan layar lebih tinggi. Adapun spesifikasi dari produk tersebut, menunjukkan perangkat lunak mirip dengan BlackBerry Bold Touch.

Terdapat keyboard dengan sistem layar sentuh, dan kemampuan multi rouch untuk memperbesar, baik di web maupun foto. Dalam perangkat baru ini dilengkapi dengan prosesor 1.2GHz, dan grafis 3D. RIM juga menyediakan pembayaran nirkabel jarak pendek NFC.

Sebagai produk layar sentuh pertama, BlackBerry menyediakan tampilan beresolusi tinggi yakni 480X800. RIM merencanakan peluncurkan produk BlackBerry Touch ini pada awal Mei.

BlackBerry Produksi Ponsel Layar Sentuh

iPhone Bantu Pasien Stroke Berbicara

2011-04-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

Aplikasi gratis ini menggunakan suara ucapan alami laki-laki atau perempuan beraksen Amerika atau Inggris. Terdapat ekspresi non verbal seperti tertawa, agar pengguna bisa dengan cepat mengatakan dalam frase umum

Orang yang telah kehilangan kemampuan berbicara akibat serangan stroke, bisa berkomunikasi dengan MyVoice lewat iPhone.

Hasil riset ini dilakukan sekelompok mahasiswa Universitas Toronto, untuk membantu kelainan berbicara akibat stroke, autisme, dan cidera kepala. Merkea membawa aplikasi iOS pada iPhone untuk diujicobakan kepada pasien yang menderita tiga penyakit itu. Hasilnya, para pasien ini bisa bersosialisasi tanpa jeda.

Pengguna atau kerabatnya berwenang menggunakan situs sederhana, untuk menginput dan menyimpan nama keluarga dan teman-teman. Istilah dan jargon yang sering digunakan untuk berkomunikasi, serta frase khusus untuk lingkungan atau situasi umum.

Sebagai contoh para pasien bisa memasukkan nama dokter keluarga dan alamat kantor dokter. MyVoice tersedia gratis di toko aplikasi iTunes selama enam bulan. Selanjutnya akan dikenakan harga US$30 per bulan.

Diharapkan minggu depan, aplikasi MyVoice sudah tersedia untuk perangkat Android.

iPhone Bantu Pasien Stroke Berbicara

Sony adding music to PSP video game gadgets

2011-04-07T23:21:00.000-07:00

Sony adding music to PSP videogame gadgets... Sony charges a $3.99 monthly subscription fee for basic Music Unlimited service, which offers commercial free listening.

Sony revealed that it was adding a streaming music service to PlayStation Portable handheld gaming gadgets next week.

A Music Unlimited service powered by Qriocity will let PSP users with PlayStation Network accounts tap into a library of millions of songs stored on computers in the Internet "cloud" beginning April 14, according to Sony.

PSP devices will need to be connected wirelessly to the Internet at "hotspots" to access tunes, according to the Japanese consumer electronics titan.

The service already streams music to personal computers and an array of Sony devices including newer model Bravia televisions, Blu-ray disk players and PlayStation 3 videogame consoles.

"PSP owners can also enjoy a common and synchronized music experience on their PS3 systems as well as PCs and other network-enabled Sony devices without the need to manage or transfer music files," Sony said in a release.

Sony charges a $3.99 monthly subscription fee for basic Music Unlimited service, which offers commercial free listening.

Sony adding music to PSP videogame gadgets

Apple iOS 4.3.2 to launch within two weeks

2011-04-07T11:55:00.000-07:00

Apple iOS 4.3.2 to launch within two weeks.. Apple’s hugely popular range of portable devices run the company’s propriety iOS operating system with the full array of iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch products set to benefit from any upcoming patch.

Bug fix and security patch expected in iOS 4.3.2.

Following hot on the heels of the latest software update, Apple is to launch iOS version 4.3.2 within the next two weeks, new reports suggest.

With claimed insider sources at Apple confirming the existence and imminent release of iOS 4.3.2 the operating system update is expected to touch down by the end of the month in order to address a number of bugs and security flaws within the current offering.

Whilst it remains unclear exactly what bugs and security issues the mooted iOS release will attend, many iPhone users will no doubt be hoping for a correction to the device’s alarm bug that reared its head once again recently when British clocks moved to BST causing preset alarms to fail to activate.

Apple’s hugely popular range of portable devices run the company’s propriety iOS operating system with the full array of iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch products set to benefit from any upcoming patch.

Apple iOS 4.3.2 to launch within two weeks

Root Android App Shows Coverage Maps

2011-04-07T00:33:00.000-07:00

Root Android App Shows Coverage Maps. However, now that tens of thousands of iPhone users have the app, that's changed. "Ironically, the most common request on the iPhone app is 'can you enable persistent data collection,'" he said. Users want to be able to turn on data collection for a specific period, for example, during their commute

Root Metrics on Wednesday will start offering an Android app that lets users compare coverage of the various mobile operators and contribute to Root's network measurement service. "

Root collects data about wireless network performance, sharing some with consumers and selling more detailed reports to operators. It collects the data in two ways, including hiring people who drive around cities in cars equipped with phones from all the large carriers running Root's data collection software.

In addition, Root lets iPhone and now Android users download software to their phones that collects and sends Root data about network coverage and performance and also shares with users some of the same data.

Root had offered a bare-bones beta app for Android and BlackBerry users more than a year ago, but it didn't have much of a user interface, said Paul Griff, co-founder and CEO of Root.

With the new Android app, like the iPhone app, users can view a map of their location that shows the coverage of their operator, using a color-coded scheme where green is the best coverage and black is the worst. Users also get a basic comparison of coverage of the other operators in their area. Anyone can view the maps on Root's website http://www.rootmetrics.com/.

The apps also let users test the speed of their data connections. On the Android app, that test uses an updated method. On the iPhone client, the app tests data rates by downloading a relatively small 64K bit file to the phone.

"The way people use their phones and what they do with the data network has changed dramatically," Griff explained. "It used to be you'd grab a Google search page or get directions or e-mail." The 64K bit test was designed to mimic the most common use of data on phones.

Now, however, people are downloading movies and music to their phones and uploading photos. Using the small packet size doesn't give a fair measure of the higher-speed data networks, he said.

So the new Android app measures speed over a period of time and by opening multiple concurrent sessions, which is the way that the Android browser works by default, he said. In addition to download speed, the app measures performance by collecting data about whether the connection gets broken, how quickly the session opens and what are the minimum and maximum speeds during the test period.

For now, only the basic download speed data will be displayed to phone users. Root expects to soon update the iPhone client to test data downloads in a similar way.

Also, in the second quarter, Root expects to update the maps to display additional network measurement information. That could help in instances where the map may show excellent coverage while a user is unable to make a call because the network is overloaded. "We are developing and will start introducing in the public maps some new ways of filtering data that will give you a look at congestion and other dimensions of performance," he said.

In both apps, the only time it collects data is when the user interacts with the application. The original beta applications collected data in the background without user involvement. "The feedback was people didn't want anybody collecting anything without overt involvement," Griff said.

However, now that tens of thousands of iPhone users have the app, that's changed. "Ironically, the most common request on the iPhone app is 'can you enable persistent data collection,'" he said. Users want to be able to turn on data collection for a specific period, for example, during their commute. Griff said Root plans to add a feature like that in the future.

Next week, Root expects to release its first full-scale market profile, starting with Seattle. The report, some of which Root will release publicly, will rank carriers by voice and data network performance. The company hopes to release such reports, which it will sell to operators and other interested companies, for more than 130 markets this year.

Targeting operators with such products has kept Root busy enough that it has put off one of the initial goals of the company: offering a service for enterprises. "We will get there," Griff said. "It was the original genesis of the company. But frankly I don't foresee us focusing on that enterprise market in the coming couple of quarters."

Root Android App Shows Coverage Maps

3D TV Plus Skype - Aquos Quattron

2011-04-06T03:08:00.000-07:00

3D TV Plus Skype - Aquos Quattron... Untuk kesempurnaan menonton melalui televisi ini, konsumen tentunya dibekali kacamata khusus tiga dimensi yang memiliki teknologi liquid crystal shutter system, fungsi auto power off serta 3D/2D mode conversion button. Fitur unggulan lain yang dimiliki Aquos Quattron 3D TV adalah Fine Motion Advanced .....

Mengikuti tren LED TV yang semakin menjanjikan, Sharp Indonesia menghadirkan perangkat hiburan berteknologi 3D lewat Aquos Quattron LED TV di awal 2011 ini.

Kendati televisi 3D masih terbilang hiburan premium di Indonesia, Sharp berkomitmen membawa teknologi ini ke lebih banyak masyarakat Tanah Air dengan menambah model LED TV dengan ukuran yang lebih kecil. Jika sebelumnya LED TV hanya tersedia dalam ukuran besar, kini Sharp menghadirkan Aquos Quattron 3D TV mulai dari ukuran 40 inci, 46 inci, 52 inci hingga 60 inci.

"Kami ingin memperluas pasar 3D TV dengan memperkenalkan ukuran televisi yang lebih kecil sehingga lebih terjangkau di kalangan konsumen," demikian pernyataan Herdiana Anita selaku Marketing General Manager Sharp Indonesia saat acara launching Aquos Quattros 3D TV di Hotel Gran Melia, Jakarta, Rabu (6/4/2011).

LED TV terbaru dari Sharp ini memiliki sejumlah fitur andalan seperti teknologi Quad Pixel Plus, di mana Sharp menambahkan warna kuning ke dalam tiga warna dasar merah, hijau dan biru (RGB), sehingga warna yang dihasilkan lebih solid dan kaya.

Sharp juga menanamkan teknologi UV2A (Ultra Violet Vertical Alignment) pada panel televisi yang menghasilkan triliunan warna dibandingkan televisi konvensional yang hanya memiliki jutaan warna.

Untuk kesempurnaan menonton melalui televisi ini, konsumen tentunya dibekali kacamata khusus tiga dimensi yang memiliki teknologi liquid crystal shutter system, fungsi auto power off serta 3D/2D mode conversion button.

Fitur unggulan lain yang dimiliki Aquos Quattron 3D TV adalah Fine Motion Advanced 100/120Hz yang mampu mengurangi gerakan gambar yang kabur (blur). Selain itu, sebagai salah satu komitmen Sharp untuk melestarikan lingkungan, terdapat ECO button pada remote control yang memungkinkan pengurangan konsumsi energi. Karena dengan menekan tombol ini, televisi akan mati dengan sendirinya jika tidak menerima sinyal setelah 20 menit.

Bukan hanya menampilkan teknologi tiga dimensi, Aquos Quattron 3D TV ini juga dilengkapi koneksi DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) Wireless, serta fitur program komunikasi Skype dengan teknologi P2P (peer to peer).

Tertarik dengan produk terbaru Sharp ini? Anda tinggal memilih produk yang sesuai dengan kebutuhan dan budget. Untuk ukuran 40 inci, Sharp mematok harga mulai dari Rp16 juta. Sementara untuk ukuran 46 inci adalah Rp27 juta, 52 inci Rp38 juta dan 60 inci mencapai Rp55 juta. "Mengingat teknologi yang diusung televisi ini, menurut kami harga yang kami tetapkan masih cukup kompetitif," cetus Herdiana.

Didukung teknologi canggih serta harga yang kompetitif, Sharp berharap bisa menjual hingga 1000 unit Aquos Quattron 3D TV setiap bulannya.

Aquos Quattron, TV 3D Plus Skype

Obama To Host Facebook Townhall On Budget

2011-04-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

I am not saying Facebook isn’t important, said one top Democratic online operative. It is very important. And it is great the White House is engaging people on Facebook. I think what people were objecting to is the thesis of the article, which is that email and blogs are dead and social media has to be the focus in 2012 because.....

In yet another nod to the influence of social media, President Obama announced Tuesday that he will host a townhall meeting via Facebook on April 20. The nation's budget outlook will be the primary focus of the meeting.

The announcement, made on the Facebook page of the White House, provides another strong indication of how widely used the medium has become in national politics.

“President Obama will connect with Americans across the country to discuss the tough choices we must all make in order to put our economy on a more responsible fiscal path, while still investing in areas like innovation that will help our economy grow and make America more competitive,” the post reads.

The actual event will take place at Facebook’s headquarters, featuring CEO Mark Zuckerberg and COO Sheryl Sandberg. But it will be live-streamed for all users and questions will be submitted right on the page itself.

While this is an official White House event, it may offer some clues to how Obama's 2012 campaign might be organized. The townhall announcement was made just one day after the president announced his reelection bid. His new media team clearly finds the Facebook forum a comfortable one to traverse. But the extent to which they can rely on social media sites over more traditional campaign outreach tools is not an insignificant question.

On Monday, Politico’s Byron Tau wrote an article describing the “brave new Web world,” confronting Obama -- a world in which email and blogs “have been declared passé.” The piece sparked heavy debate among party operatives, many of whom were critical of the notion that email and blogs were relics of antiquity.

“I’m not saying Facebook isn’t important,” said one top Democratic online operative. “It is very important. And it is great the White House is engaging people on Facebook. I think what people were objecting to is the thesis of the article, which is that email and blogs are dead and social media has to be the focus in 2012 because times are so different."

He also noted that older Web tools will remain important for donations: "Most of the money raised is going to come from email. So to say that email is passé is, I think, terribly misguided,” he said.

Obama To Host Facebook Townhall On Budget

Google one step closer to mobile payments

2011-03-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

The Bloomberg article said Google is planning to pay for "thousands" of installations of near-field communication systems (NFC) around New York City and San Francisco as part of a test. When consumers buy products where one of the systems is installed, they will need only to hold their devices up to the reader to make a purchase, Bloomberg said

Google is partnering with MasterCard and Citigroup to deliver a mobile-payment service to Android smartphones, according to a report.

Citing anonymous sources, The Wall Street Journal reports that Google will allow people with debit and credit cards from the two financial giants to turn on an app and pay for a purchase from their smartphones. At no point would they need to take those cards out of their wallets to make a purchase.

Google plans to launch the program later this year, according to today's article.

The Journal report follows an earlier claim via Bloomberg that Google will deliver a mobile-payment service in the next few months. The Bloomberg article said Google is planning to pay for "thousands" of installations of near-field communication systems (NFC) around New York City and San Francisco as part of a test. When consumers buy products where one of the systems is installed, they will need only to hold their devices up to the reader to make a purchase, Bloomberg said.

Google has yet to unveil a "mobile wallet" that would go along with its NFC service, but a report that surfaced earlier this year claimed the company was working on a platform code-named "Cream" that would deliver the ability to make payments from NFC-enabled Android devices.

The company's NFC plans are very much up in the air for now. According to The Wall Street Journal's sources, Google will look to expand its partnerships with other financial institutions. However, that will only happen if its first test is successful.

Google one step closer to mobile payments

Office Depot launches mobile apps

2011-03-24T04:51:00.000-07:00

“The advanced functionality of Office Depot’s new mobile applications for the iPhone and Android-based phones provide our customers with a best-in-class experience, including the ability to check out and purchase products without being redirected to another site outside of the mobile application.”

iPhone And Android Apps Launch From Office Depot

Office Depot has expanded its mobile offerings and has launched an iPhone and Android app available for free download on iTunes and the Android Market.

The new apps are part of the company’s broader “Office Depot Anywhere” strategy aimed at helping people show via a variety of mobile platforms and m-commerce sites.

The apps allow users to browse and buy products from their mobile phone, read product revies, find a store location, access order history, track shipments, scan a product barcode in store for detailed descriptions, reviews and pricing.

The Office Depot iPhone and Android apps also allows users to “follow” their mobile shopping cart across multiple devices.

“We know our customers are busy and sometimes the only time they have to shop for their office needs is between meetings, in the airport, or from the road,” said Barry Litwin, Vice President of E-Commerce for Office Depot.

Office Depot says it plans to add more mobile platforms in the future, including BlackBerry and Microsoft operating systems, as well as tablet devices.

iPhone And Android Apps

Sony NSX-46GT1 – Google TV

2010-11-17T18:58:00.000-08:00

I got the 46 inch model in my labs for review and all these panels, except for 24 inch model, have LED backlighting. The 24 inch TV is based on standard CCFL technology. The cost ranges from $1,399 for 46 inch product to $599 for 24 inch TV. The pricing is attractive and it is on par with other large HDTVs in the market

Sony NSX-46GT1 is a TV with Google TV and it is the first panel to have this feature. The service is integrated in to the panel itself and you don’t need something like an external set top box for getting the Google TV features. Apart from that, this is a standard edge-lit LCD TV and you won’t find a lot of higher end features here like 120 Hz video processing. Google TV is the main feature here and it lets you search through internet video sources and also your TV sources from antenna, set top or cable from the same search window. You just have to go in, look for the desired show title and then browse through the results from internet, satellite, cable or variety of TV services.

Sony NSX-46GT1 is the first TV ever to incorporate all the sources in to a single search window. This TV has a unique remote and I’ve never seen anything like it before. The clicker looks very similar to a PS3 controller and comes with a full QWERTY keyboard for searching the content. Another unique feature on the clickers is the touch sensitive mouse located on the right side for moving the cursor around. This mouse area is flanked by left, right, down and up buttons which makes the selection easy. I liked the remote, it is pretty slick but also bulkier all others I have had till now. It has a learning curve. This remote is based on RF technology and you don’t have to be in line of sight for controlling the TV.

You can also control other devices AV devices or cable box through the Sony NSX-46GT1. But for full integration, you will have to hook this TV up to dish DVR. This TV is available in four different screen sizes of 32 inches, 40 inches, 46 inches, and 24 inches. I got the 46 inch model in my labs for review and all these panels, except for 24 inch model, have LED backlighting. The 24 inch TV is based on standard CCFL technology. The cost ranges from $1,399 for 46 inch product to $599 for 24 inch TV. The pricing is attractive and it is on par with other large HDTVs in the market.

Sony will be announcing a Blu-ray player called NSG-ZT1 with a price tag of $399. This player too has all these Google TV features and it is for people who own a TV and still want the Google TV goodies. Sony NSX-46GT1 has apps like Twitter, Amazon Video on Demand, Netflix, etc. Sony will be getting more apps soon like Facebook.

Another cool feature on the Sony NSX-46GT1 is its access to the internet. There is a Chrome browser built-in for surfing through the video Websites like PBS.org, ComedyCentral.com, etc. accessing these sites was easier as compared to other Internet based TVs that I’ve previously seen in the market. The only big disappointment is absence of Hulu.com. You cannot search Hulu or play any of its videos.

Spy Keylogger

2010-10-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

You notice nothing, since every key you type gets dutifully reproduced on your screen. Somewhere, however, you’ve got a sneaky person quietly recording everything, just waiting for you to step away for a few minutes so they can retrieve the offending device and play back everything.

I supose you would like to have one of these spy toys for, either finding out what’s going with your computer at work whenever you leave the office or spying on your co-workers( not recomended). In both cases you can count on The Spy Keylogger to do a great job in storing( 2MB of internal memory) all the keystrokes made on tapped computer. It works with most wired keyboards by simple connecting logger between computer and the keyboard. Hence, if you use wireless keyboard your typed data is safe from this silent predator.

These keyloggers act as the “man-in-the-middle,” monitoring each keystroke as it streams down your cable into your computer. You notice nothing, since every key you type gets dutifully reproduced on your screen. Somewhere, however, you’ve got a sneaky person quietly recording everything, just waiting for you to step away for a few minutes so they can retrieve the offending device and play back everything. The logger saves every keystroke into onboard memory. To read the contents, remove the logger and connect it to your own computer and keyboard. Typing in a password into any text-editor begins the memory-dump process.

USB model retails for $59.99 and PS/2 interface model goes for $79.99. Get yours from ThinkGeek.com and have some fun in the spy world. In mean time, check back of your office computer.

Motorola Star Wars R2 - D2 Droid 2

2010-09-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

To celebrate 30 years since the film hit theaters, customers with Android devices running Android 2.1 or higher will soon be able to get the Empire Strikes Back app from Android Market™. The app, only for Verizon Wireless customers, allows Jedi Masters to browse, preview and download Star Wars content related to Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back.....

Motorola’s Droid 2 R2-D2 version will drop on September 30th for $249 after a $100 mail-in-rebate. Included is a dock, plenty of Star Wars branding, R2-D2 sounds and notifications and some sort of binocular application.

If you already own an Android phone, and $249 is a bit too rich for your blood, you’ll soon be able to download a Star Wars application that provides a comparable feature set as the the official handset for $2.99.

MAY THE DROID BE WITH YOU: LIMITED EDITION DROID™ R2-D2™ BY MOTOROLA LANDS ON VERIZON WIRELESS’ NETWORK

DROID™ R2-D2™ by Motorola Brings the Galactic Empire to Customers

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. – Verizon Wireless announced that the highly anticipated limited edition DROID™ R2-D2™ by Motorola will be available online at www.verizonwireless.com and in select Verizon Wireless Communication stores beginning Sept. 30. With a graphic design to look like the iconic Astromech Droid from the Star Wars™ Saga, the DROID™ R2-D2™ by Motorola will be packaged in a custom box resembling carbonite and come with a Star Wars media dock and wired stereo headset.

Exclusive content comes pre-loaded on the special edition smartphone, including:

· R2-D2 notification sounds and ringtones
· Four live wallpapers
· R2-D2 Clock Widget
· “The Best of R2-D2” video with the original Cantina music
· Exclusive Binoculars App

Star Wars Mobile App Available for All Customers with Android 2.1 phones

The Star Wars mobile app will have the following features and content:

· Bounty Hunt Visual ID: Find and capture images around the Star Wars universe to unlock hidden content

· Sound and Photo Gallery

· Live Wallpapers:

o Blast the Probe Droid

o Luke Balancing Yoda

o Navigating the Asteroid Field

o Watch Bespin’s Cloud City

· Trivia Challenge: Answer trivia questions about The Empire Strikes Back

· Widgets

The DROID™ R2-D2™ by Motorola will be available for $249 after a $100 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. Customers will need to subscribe to a Nationwide Talk plan or a Nationwide Talk & Text plan (beginning at $39.99 monthly access) and an Email and Web for Smartphone plan (beginning at $29.99 for unlimited monthly access). Customers will receive the rebate in the form of a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as cash anywhere debit cards are accepted.

For more information on DROID™ R2-D2™ by Motorola, go to www.droiddoes.com/r2d2.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 92 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 79,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

About Motorola

Motorola is known around the world for innovation in communications and is focused on advancing the way the world connects. From broadband communications infrastructure, enterprise mobility and public safety solutions to mobile and wireline digital communication devices that provide compelling experiences, Motorola is leading the next wave of innovations that enable people, enterprises and governments to be more connected and more mobile. Motorola (NYSE: MOT) had sales of US $22 billion in 2009.

For more information, please visit www.motorola.com.

Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver

2010-09-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor

The Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS System combines form and function. This combination running partner and personal trainer is designed for athletes of all levels. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, new courses feature, and robust ANT wireless heart rate monitor for optimal performance. The super-sensitive GPS tracks your every move, even working on tree-covered trails and near tall buildings.

The heart device monitors your heart rate, speed, distance, pace and calories burned so you can train smarter, more effectively. These taskmasters will continually push you to do your personal best. Courses feature lets you download recorded courses and compete against previous workouts Auto Pause pauses and resumes training timer GPS features - GPS with high-Sensitivity SiRFstarIII architecture Wireless communication between system devices via ANT protocol Display Size(WxH) - 1.3 x 0.8 (33 x 20.3 mm) Lap Memory - 1,000 laps Rechargeable internal lithium ion battery - lasts 10 hours (typical use) Waterproof - Submersible in one meter of water for up to 30 mins. Alerts - Time, distance, pace and heart rate Physical Size(WxHxD) - 2.1 x. 7 x 2.7 (53.3 x 17.8 x 68.6 mm) Weight - 2.72 oz. (77 g).

Amazon.com Review : Just when you thought Garmin had cornered the market on powerful, affordable, and effective wrist-mounted GPS devices, here comes the Forerunner 305. The release of this device is a major achievement from a design and technology perspective. This isn't just marketing-speak; the Forerunner 305 is the most accurate, most reliable wrist-mounted performance and GPS tracking tool we've ever tested. Yes, it's that good. While no device this compact can do everything (yet), the 305 pushes the boundaries of what is possible from something strapped around your wrist. The 305 model includes wireless heartrate monitoring and it can also be connected to Garmin's wireless bicycle speed and cadence sensor.

Virus on Nokia phones

2010-09-22T12:41:00.000-07:00

There is no payload, apart from the vastly shortened battery life caused by the constant scanning for Bluetooth-enabled devices. However the anti-virus is important in the phone to protect our phone from viruses. It also can makes our phone more stabile and free from viruses

Nokia is smartphone and has developed their phone very well. It is like a market law that advancement has risk. This smart phone also has a problem call virus. This phone has a virus create by some people hoping for the glory for himself.

The virus danger the phone and make the phone broken and attack the soft program and also can broke the hard system. But there are many anti-viruses that provide to protect our Nokia. It is because the demand from people who use Nokia and do not want to get the viruses.

One of the anti virus is Symbols Caber is a proof-of-concept worm that replicates on Series 60 phones. This worm repeatedly sends itself to the first Bluetooth-enabled device that it can find, regardless of the type of device. For example, even a Bluetooth-enabled printer will be attacked if it is within range. The worm spreads as a .SIS file, which is installed into the APPS directory.

There is no payload, apart from the vastly shortened battery life caused by the constant scanning for Bluetooth-enabled devices. However the anti-virus is important in the phone to protect our phone from viruses. It also can makes our phone more stabile and free from viruses.

Android Looks to Overtake BlackBerry, iPhone

2010-09-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

Android devices will be tops in market share globally, not just in the United States. Nokia's share will continue to erode, as will RIM's and Apple's. Unless Apple can find a way to step up its development rate or provide a broader choice in models, it's likely that the popularity of iPhones will decline fairly quickly

 Google Android Smartphone OS Will Overtake BlackBerry, iPhone OSes.

News Analysis: Android-based devices could outnumber BlackBerry smartphones and iPhones by the end of 2010, and match Symbian sooner than expected.

I suppose that it's just as well that Apple's Steve Jobs is used to being at the bottom in terms of market share, because it's about to happen again. According to Gartner research it will happen by the end of 2010, when the Android mobile OS will have surpassed both Apple's iOS and Research In Motion's BlackBerry operating system to reach second place behind only Symbian. By 2014, according to the report, Android and Symbian will be approximately equal in market share.

Interestingly, this growth to parity with Symbian is happening about two years sooner than Gartner had predicted in 2009. What's happened, of course, is that Android has been adopted by a wide variety of manufacturers this year, and it's selling a lot of those devices at prices far lower than Apple sets for the iPhone. In the United States, where Nokia's presence is relatively low, Android is expected to reach the top spot by the end of 2010.

There are many reasons for the explosive growth of Android phones. In the United States, there are a lot of users who can't use the sole iPhone carrier, AT&T, and a lot who could but don't want to, either because they're happy with whatever company provides their wireless service now or because AT&T's service has gotten a poor reputation due to problems with iPhone service.

Android phones, on the other hand, are available from every carrier in the United States, and they're made by nearly every company that builds smartphones.

This wide range of choices means that you don't have to do things Apple's way if you don't want to. And you don't have to use your smartphone in any particular way because of the number of form factors and interfaces available for Android devices. Giving users a range of choices has always worked well, and it works even better when that range of choices is also less expensive than the alternative.

Apple is trying to combat the market-share erosion caused by Android devices by letting other carriers sell the iPhone. In the United States, it appears that T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless will be getting the iPhone in the near future. However, the chance of Apple actually pulling off an Android upset is remote. The iPhone is too expensive for many buyers who are looking for a phone that's smart enough, but still affordable. Android can offer that, while Apple has been going after the high end of the market and that isn't going to change.

It's the long run that's the most interesting, however. Just as Gartner missed the mark on Android growth last year, it's very likely the predictions are also too conservative this year. The reason lies in the nature of the Symbian market and Nokia's smartphones. Symbian has a large market share due to a preponderance of legacy devices, legacy here being another term for "old." While much of the world has a much lower level of turnover than happens in the United States and Western Europe, old phones are still going to be replaced when they die or when they fail to meet their users' needs. Nokia, with its aging phone population, faces that turnover much sooner than does the Android world.

So what's going to happen is that a portion of those old Nokia phones are going to be replaced with Android devices, while a much smaller portion of Android devices will be replaced with Symbian phones. Nokia's market share will sink while Android's market share grows. I think the crossing point will happen sooner than predicted in 2014 and could happen as soon as the end of 2012.

At that point, Android devices will be tops in market share globally, not just in the United States. Nokia's share will continue to erode, as will RIM's and Apple's. Unless Apple can find a way to step up its development rate or provide a broader choice in models, it's likely that the popularity of iPhones will decline fairly quickly. RIM will have a similar problem with the BlackBerry, but not to the same extent. RIM has a solid business base that the other makers don't and can't get a part of. But that's not going to keep RIM at the top of the heap, either.

There is, of course, a wild card. Microsoft is getting ready to release its new phone and its new Windows Phone 7 operating system. If the Redmond team can get past the clunky interface and vague models showed in earlier versions of Windows Mobile and the ill-fated Kin line, and if the company can sell those phones at a highly competitive price, then you may see Microsoft gaining significant market share. Right now we don't know what will happen, but remember, one reason Windows has such a huge part of the computer operating system market today is because Microsoft let anybody sell Windows, and machines running it were far cheaper than those running the Mac OS.

If Microsoft does the same thing with phones, then it could be a factor that upsets all of those carefully (or not-so-carefully) thought-out predictions. We'll have to see, but I think Android is still going to come out on top.

Apple Approves Google Voice App

2010-09-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

Some enterprising developers, such as Sean Kovacs, built apps such as GV Mobile that take the dialing and other capabilities from Google Voice and make them work on Apple's iPhone.

Apple Approves Google Voice App for iPhone App Store.

Apple accepted third-party Google Voice applications GV Mobile and GV Connect into its iPhone App Store. Google's own Google Voice app should be coming soon to the store.

More than 14 months after shutting the door on the official and third-party applications for Google Voice, Apple has relented, approving GV Mobile for the iPhone.

Google Voice is a phone management application more than 1.4 million people use to route calls to their phones using a special phone number.

The app, which enables free calls in the U.S. and cheap international calls, lets users enjoy automatic voicemail transcription, the ability to listen to live messages as they come in to voicemail and several other tools to make call management easier.

Google submitted a version of its app for the iPhone to Apple's App Store for approval in June 2009. Some enterprising developers, such as Sean Kovacs, built apps such as GV Mobile that take the dialing and other capabilities from Google Voice and make them work on Apple's iPhone.

Google's app was never approved, though Apple said it never actually rejected the app.

The he said, she said touched off such scrutiny among the media that the Federal Communications Commission formally questioned Google, Apple and AT&T. Apple, it turned out, was indeed behind the rejection.

Third-party apps such as VoiceCentral and GV Mobile was originally approved but then removed for competing too closely with features on the iPhone.

Now, Apple has done an about-face, accepting GV Mobile, Kovacs said on his blog Sept. 18.

The app is available for download from the iTunes Webstore here for $2.99. "After a long year and a half of being home sick, GV Mobile makes an epic return to the App Store," Kovacs wrote.

Like Google's version of the app, GV Mobile supports automatic transcription and voicemail playback and most other features. Apple also accepted GV Mobile rival GV Connect, which does what GV Mobile does and also costs $2.99 for purchase here.

The move comes weeks after Apple loosened the reins on its App Store development rules and procedures after enough developers complained about the gauntlet they had to run.

It's a safe bet that Google's own Voice app will be approved by Apple, if not this year, than early 2011.

All People Loves The New iPhone 4

2010-09-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

How is that possible? In part, the trick was squaring off the back. It’s no longer gracefully curved — a design that, if you think about it, created wasted space around the rectangular components. The new iPhone is two glass slabs, front and back, wrapped by a stainless-steel band.....
All People Loves The New iPhone 4. Everyone is drooling over how great the phone is. They are still calling the iPhone best in class, even though it's tethered to everyone's least-favorite carrier.

Here are some relevant excerpts from a variety of reviews, which should give you an idea about what people think:

Walt Mossberg, WSJ:

"Overall, Apple has delivered a big, well-designed update that, in my view, keeps it in the lead in the smartphone wars.

...Just as with its predecessors, I can’t recommend this new iPhone for voice calling for people who experience poor AT&T reception, unless they are willing to carry a second phone on a network that works better for them.

For everyone else, however, I’d say that Apple has built a beautiful smartphone that works well, adds impressive new features and is still, overall, the best device in its class."

Joshua Topolsky, Engadget:

"In our approximation, the iPhone 4 is the best smartphone on the market right now. The combination of gorgeous new hardware, that amazing display, upgraded cameras, and major improvements to the operating system make this an extremely formidable package.

...Of course, in the hyper-accelerated smartphone market where the Next Big Thing seems to always be just around the corner, it's anyone's guess how long they keep that edge."

Ed Baig, USA Today:

"Buyers won't be disappointed. The killer feature is what Apple calls FaceTime video chat. The promise that you and the person you're talking to on a phone can gaze into each other's eyes dates back to when LBJ occupied the White House. No one has really nailed video calling through the years, at least not the way Apple has nailed it here, with certain limitations. FaceTime is as simple as making a regular call. To help to accomplish this neat stunt, iPhone 4 adds a front-facing camera that complements the more traditional, and improved, camera on the back."

Xeni Jardin, BoingBoing:

"The notable features with iPhone 4 — both the device and the iOS4, which came out yesterday in advance of the iPhone itself—are mostly tweaks. But what tweaks they are: Apple's focus on improvement is as much key to the quality of its products as innovation. Still, there's one flaw it can't completely eliminate: the unreliable quality of calls placed over AT&T, which remains the iPhone's only U.S. carrier."

David Pogue, New York Times:

"The first thing you notice is the new shape. Despite a beefier battery (16 percent more likely to last a full day), a faster processor and upgraded everything, the new model is still noticeably thinner and narrower than before. How is that possible? In part, the trick was squaring off the back. It’s no longer gracefully curved — a design that, if you think about it, created wasted space around the rectangular components. The new iPhone is two glass slabs, front and back, wrapped by a stainless-steel band.

The result is beautiful, and since there’s no more plastic, it feels solid and Lexus-like."

Boy Genius, Boy Genius Report:

"Cameras… The 5 megapixel rear facing camera really does prove that megapixels aren’t everything. All of the photos we took with the main camera came out very well, with good color balance and sharpness. The sole LED flash did a decent job, but it’s clear Apple kept the number of diodes to one for aesthetic reasons. Videos taken on the 4 were really nice. On many devices that shoot in 720p you’ll get a lot of lag and a huge loss of quality unless you’re standing perfectly still, but that isn’t the case with this phone. The front facing 1.3 megapixel camera is surprisingly good, especially when you consider that it has to show up on a display with such a high resolution."

How the iPad won over a skeptic

2010-09-16T00:19:00.000-07:00

A lot of manufacturers want a piece of the tablet action, and we'll see quite a few options in stores this holiday season. For instance, Samsung Electronics Inc. has shown off a 7-inch tablet called the Galaxy Tab, and according to The Wall Street Journal, U.S. wireless carriers will sell it subsidized with two-year data service contracts.

At first glance, the iPad looked like a heavy, overgrown iPod Touch. After just a few months of use, however, this iPad skeptic realized that it's so much more — it's one of those devices I've always needed. Those don't come around very often.

Most things get less interesting the more examples you see of them. If you've never seen a computer before, the first one is a revelation, but each successive model gets less and less remarkable.

Apple Inc.'s iPad is the other way around. It looks more impressive in light of what's come before it. I've seen many tablet computers of different stripes since 2002, when Microsoft introduced Windows XP Tablet Edition. The quality has varied, but they've all been failures, even the recent ones. They're a Stonehenge's worth of near-useless slabs.

The iPad finally fulfills the promise of the tablet computer when it came out in April.

It cuts the mouse and keyboard out of the equation, giving us a straight, tactile connection. While the iPad builds on the iPhone, it feels like a bigger achievement. The first iPhone was a great phone, driven by far-thinking new ideas. But other people had made good phones before. Before the iPad, no one had made a good tablet computer. Even Apple failed with its first attempt, the Newton, back in the 90s.

When I first got my hands on an iPad for a review, I played games on it for about a month. My favorite strategy game, "Battle for Wesnoth," was written for the PC, but actually works better on the iPad, thanks to the immediacy of the touch interface. Several other games conspired to suck away my productivity, so it took me a while to realize that the iPad actually fulfills a long-time tablet vision as well: It's like a sheet of paper, electronified. That's what made me plunk down $499 for one of my own once I was done with the borrowed review unit.

I knew I was waiting for a device that could replace printouts, magazines, newspapers and books in my life. At first, I didn't think the iPad was it, because it's too heavy to hold comfortably in one hand. In particular, I need one hand free to steady myself on the New York subway. Better, I thought, to wait for a smaller device, something with a screen that measures 5 to 7 inches diagonally instead of the iPad's 9.7 inches.

I was wrong. The iPad isn't too heavy if I support it on a bag when standing. And the screen is just big and sharp enough to display decently a letter-sized document or a reformatted newspaper page with teasers for a couple of articles.

That means the last defenses that kept dead trees relevant to me have been overcome. I canceled the print subscription for one of my newspapers and went electronic. I've also started stuffing papers I want to have with me through a sheet-fed scanner and moved the resulting files to the iPad as PDFs. It's like ripping CDs to get MP3s; the iPad is like an iPod for paper.

Replacing paper was the rationale of Amazon.com Inc.'s Kindle e-reader, but the multi-purpose iPad beats it at its own game. The Kindle was revolutionary in its way because it could download books wirelessly, but it has been held back by a screen technology that's slow to react to our commands. It can display static page after static page, but scrolling and zooming don't really work, so PDF viewing is impractical.

Amazon launched a new TV spot this week, showing a man struggling to read an iPad poolside in bright sunlight, while a bikini-clad woman next to him is reading a Kindle comfortably. It's true that Kindles are more readable than iPads in bright light. What the ad doesn't mention is that that's the only situation in which you'll be happier with a Kindle. By all means, if you spend your days at the pool or beach, get a $139 Kindle and spend the $360 you'll be saving over the iPad on a lot of sunscreen.

Other reviewers have spread confusion about the selection of books available on the iPad. It's true that Apple's own iBook store has fewer books than Kindle store. That doesn't matter, though: You can buy and read Kindle books on the iPad, along with books from a lot of other retailers, including Barnes & Noble Inc.

What about other competing devices? A lot of manufacturers want a piece of the tablet action, and we'll see quite a few options in stores this holiday season. For instance, Samsung Electronics Inc. has shown off a 7-inch tablet called the Galaxy Tab, and according to The Wall Street Journal, U.S. wireless carriers will sell it subsidized with two-year data service contracts.

From a hardware standpoint, these could be compelling options (though a 7-inch screen is now too small for my taste). Samsung and others can take advantage of the same technological advances that helped Apple improve over previous tablets. They could also remedy some of the annoying omissions of the iPad, such as the lack of built-in USB and memory card ports. They'll have built-in cameras, too.

The crux, though, is the software. Competitors are relying on Android, a free software package from Google Inc. that's done well in smart phones. It's not intended for tablets, though, and Google doesn't promote it as such. Apple managed to move the iPhone's software to the iPad without much trouble, but that transition looks more difficult for Android. It just isn't as slick to begin with. That said, Android has some compelling advantages, including PC-like access to stored files and the ability to run Flash on Web pages.

Next year, we may see better software alternatives. Google has another software package called Chrome OS in the works. It's designed for netbooks coming out later this year, and could be used for tablets as well. But it's heavily Web-oriented, and may not provide a lot of functions when used without an Internet connection. Hewlett-Packard Co. recently bought Palm Inc. and plans to use its excellent webOS smart phone software for a tablet, probably next year.

It took competitors a couple of years to start catching up to the iPhone in a serious way. The gap will probably be shorter for tablet computers, but by getting the iPad right on its first try, Apple has real head start. Maybe I'm trying to justify my purchase here, but I have a strong feeling there isn't a lot to be gained by waiting for the others to catch up.

Intel Launch Core 2 Duo, E8600

2010-09-14T02:49:00.000-07:00

he big surprise is yet to come, as 2008 seems to be the first year when Intel will not ship any Pentium-class processor. The company has successfully transitioned to the Core technology in both low- and high level products.

The new CPU will be based on a 45-nanometer dual core Wolfdale architecture and seems to work at 3.33 GHz (the stock core clock speed). The Wolfdale processor will come with 6MB of L2 cache and will feature a thermal design power of 65 watts, which is quite impressive, given its 3.33GHz core frequency. Moreover, its low thermal envelope will allow enthusiasts to overclock it without problems in order to squeeze some 300-500 MHz using air-based cooling solutions. The Core 2 Duo E8600 will give Intel some maneuver space, as AMD is gearing up for launching its dual- and tri-cores during the second quarter of the year. The B4 silicon revision is promising excellent AMD overclockers.

However, Intel is still keeping its 45-nanometer CPU stash hidden from the eyes of its customers. Although the company has been shipping its 45-nanometer Core 2 Extreme 9650 for some time, there will be little 45-nanometer-based parts to emerge during this quarter.

Only two percent of Intel's consumer-oriented CPUs will be based on the Intel Core 2 Quad 45-nanometer architecture, and only three percent of the chips will belong to the 45-nanometer Core 2 Duo family. The 65-nanometer dual core processor will claim their lion share on the market (about 42 percent of the total shipments), while the 65-nanometer quads will account for only 5 percent of the total shipments.

Moving along, the Dual Core E2000 series will represent 29 percent of Intel's shipments, and the Celeron 400 will only account for 14 percent of total consumer CPU shipments this quarter. The big surprise is yet to come, as 2008 seems to be the first year when Intel will not ship any Pentium-class processor. The company has successfully transitioned to the Core technology in both low- and high level products.

The chip manufacturer seems to have buried the last of the Netbursts, the dual-core Pentium D processor. Intel basically built its reputation on the Pentium brand and terminating the family surely was a tough decision. Pentium D is practically a museum rarity as of 2008, but don't worry, the Core 2 Celeron or the E1000 series give more than the Pentium D could even imagine.

Nokia Appoints new CEO

2010-09-12T23:57:00.000-07:00

As of September 10, 2010, the Nokia Board will consist of the following members: Jorma Ollila (Chairman), Dame Marjorie Scardino (Vice Chairman), Lalita D. Gupte, Bengt Holmström, Dr. Henning Kagermann, Per Karlsson, Isabel Marey-Semper, Risto Siilasmaa, Keijo Suila.

Nokia's Board of Directors has appointed Stephen Elop President and Chief Executive Officer of Nokia as of September 21. Elop currently heads Microsoft's Business Division. Before joining Microsoft, Elop held senior executive positions in a number of US-based public companies, including Juniper Networks, Adobe Systems Inc. and Macromedia Inc. He holds a degree in computer engineering and management from McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, which is his home country.

"The time is right to accelerate the company's renewal; to bring in new executive leadership with different skills and strengths in order to drive company success. The Nokia Board believes that Stephen has the right industry experience and leadership skills to realize the full potential of Nokia. His strong software background and proven record in change management will be valuable assets as we press harder to complete the transformation of the company. We believe that Stephen will be able to drive both innovation and efficient execution of the company strategy in order to deliver increased value to our shareholders," said Jorma Ollila, Chairman of the Nokia Board of Directors.

Elop commented on his new Nokia position: "I am extremely excited to become part of a team dedicated to strengthening Nokia's position as the undisputed leader of the mobile communications industry, with a relentless focus on meeting the needs and expectations of customers. Nokia has a unique global position as well as a great brand upon which we can build. The company has deeply talented and dedicated people, and I am confident that together we can continue to deliver innovative products that meet the needs of consumers. The Nokia slogan clearly states our key mission: Connecting People, which will acquire new dimensions as we build our portfolio of products, solutions and services."

Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo will leave his current position as President and CEO of Nokia on September 20, 2010 and his position on the Nokia Board of Directors with immediate effect. He will continue to chair the Board of Nokia Siemens Networks in a non-executive capacity.

"The whole Board of Directors joins me in thanking Olli-Pekka for his thirty years at Nokia, during which he has been deeply involved in developing the company and its operations. His dedication and contribution throughout the years has been exceptional. The Board wishes him every success in his future pursuits," says Jorma Ollila.

In accordance with the terms and conditions of his service contract, Kallasvuo is entitled to a severance payment consisting of 18 months gross base salary and target incentive which totals approximately 4.6 million euro. He will also receive as compensation the fair market value of the 100 000 restricted Nokia shares granted to him in 2007, which vest on October 1, 2010.

As of September 10, 2010, the Nokia Board will consist of the following members: Jorma Ollila (Chairman), Dame Marjorie Scardino (Vice Chairman), Lalita D. Gupte, Bengt Holmström, Dr. Henning Kagermann, Per Karlsson, Isabel Marey-Semper, Risto Siilasmaa, Keijo Suila.

A press conference will be held today at Nokia's head office in Espoo, Finland, at 13:00 (CET+1). The press conference will be webcast live via: www.nokia.com/press or http://www.nokia.com/press/media_resources/audio/nokia-webcasts.

Lenovo ThinkPad X60 Talented Tablet

2010-09-12T01:23:00.000-07:00

Lenovo ThinkPad X60 Talented Tablet. The X60 boasts three USB 2.0 inputs, so you won't have any trouble attaching a mouse, printer, or other device. It includes headphone and microphone jacks, mini-FireWire for even faster connections to multimedia gadgets, and VGA for hooking up your monitor or other display.

The Good: Extremely portable; Active Rotate feature automatically adjusts screen

The Bad: Lacks an internal CD drive; relatively expensive

The Bottom Line: It's not much to look at, but it is a capable and easy-to-transport tablet doubling as a laptop.

Fab Features

The X60 has a number of impressive features. As with the X41, the X60 has a 12-in. XGA screen. But unlike the earlier version, it also boasts touch-screen capabilities, letting users manipulate the screen using either a stylus or a finger.

Another handy feature: the Active Rotate System. When in tablet mode, the X60 automatically detects any changes in rotation or angle and adjusts the picture from landscape to portrait and back. Turn the screen on its side, and the picture changes accordingly. Other tablet PCs require manual adjustments. This was extremely useful as I took notes during meetings.

Writing on the screen when in tablet mode went off without a hitch. The stylus was comfortable, and the Microsoft (MSFT) Windows Vista Tablet software easily deciphered my chicken-scratch handwriting.

Another pleasant surprise came in the form of long battery life. I put the X60 through what I like to call the Airplane! test. Once the unit was fully charged, I turned on the movie, and when its 87 minutes ended the X60 was still going strong.

In fact, it didn't need to be charged for another hour. On average, the battery life of the X60 was just above three hours. Much of the praise for this long battery life must go to the X60's extended eight-cell battery, which will cost you $50 and adds heft but is well worth the extra price and burden.

Let's Hook Up

At 3.77 lbs. and 10.8 in. x 9.5 in. x 1.1 in., the X60 is the optimal size and weight for a portable unit that also works as a laptop. It is slightly smaller than the Toshiba (TOSBF) Portege and comparable to Lenovo's earlier foray into the tablet PC world, the ThinkPad X41 Tablet.

The X60 boasts three USB 2.0 inputs, so you won't have any trouble attaching a mouse, printer, or other device. It includes headphone and microphone jacks, mini-FireWire for even faster connections to multimedia gadgets, and VGA for hooking up your monitor or other display. Underneath the hood, the X60 has a 1.83GHz Intel (INTC) Core Duo L2500 as well as a 100GB hard drive, ample storage for a portable unit.

To test the portability of the X60 Tablet, I carried it around for a week and a half in New York City—from daily meetings to lunch on the go—with no complaints. Had I not known it was in my backpack I'd guess I was carrying some pads of paper and a book or two.

The Down Side

I did have a few qualms about the X60. I would have liked an internal CD drive, but I was willing to part with it in return for portability.

My biggest gripe is its price. At $2,500, the version I tested lands right between two of its closest competitors—the $3,499 Toshiba Portege R400-S4931, one of the more expensive tablet PCs, and the $1,299 HP Pavilion tx1000.

So is the X60 worth the money? Unlike other tablet PCs that may cost you an arm and a leg, the X60 will give you a long period of productivity at a very high standard. While it may not be pretty, it sure gets the job done.

Apple Removes Nail From Adobe Flash Coffin

2010-09-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

When Apple first pulled the plug on third-party development tools for iOS development (including Flash CS5), there were a lot of negative reactions, especially from cross-platform developers. With that, in addition to continually refusing support for Flash on its mobile devices (which may not have been a bad call afterall), it seemed that Apple really had it out for Adobe.

Yesterday, Apple released a statement highlighting significant changes to their iOS Developer Program license, re-opening the platform to third-party development tools such as Adobe Flash. Additionally, Apple posted their full App Store review guidelines. The move has already been touted as a positive step towards App Store review transparency- which in the past has been criticized for its ostensible inconsistency. But why now? And what does this mean for Flash developers?

The change is undoubtedly in reaction, at least in part, to Android's gaining market share. Android's rise is due, to a certain extent, to the openness of the platform and the Android Market. However, part of what makes the App Store so great is the review process itself, which guarantees to users a certain level of quality and UI consistency. By posting the exact review guidelines to developers, Apple has made a terrific compromise between the two models.

When Apple first pulled the plug on third-party development tools for iOS development (including Flash CS5), there were a lot of negative reactions, especially from cross-platform developers. With that, in addition to continually refusing support for Flash on its mobile devices (which may not have been a bad call afterall), it seemed that Apple really had it out for Adobe.

I don't expect Apple to support Flash directly on its iOS devices- that is unless Adobe makes significant improvements in performance and touch-based input. However, the way things are going, standards-based HTML5 will take over on mobile (and hopefully desktop) and users will be much better off for it. I'll bet there were an awful lot of Flash developers who, with Wired's latest cover story ("The Web Is Dead") were starting to have existential quandaries. But with Apple now loosening the straps on the App Store, Flash may actually survive on mobile as a code-creation platform.

Motorola Droid X (Verizon Wireless) Review

2010-09-09T03:48:00.000-07:00

The Droid X is the latest member to join Verizon's army, and just like the original Droid before it, it's a beast, but in a good way. The smartphone rocks a brilliant 4.3-inch touch screen and offers some great multimedia features, including an 8-megapixel camera with HD video capture, HDMI output, and DLNA support. However, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention that it does lack some features that the similar-looking HTC Evo 4G has, such as a front-facing camera and, of course, 4G support.

Motorola and Verizon aren't afraid to go after the competition, whether it be blatantly calling out a certain phone in TV ads or introducing a pretty killer device right before the launch of another.

The good: The Motorola Droid X boasts a gorgeous 4.3-inch touch screen and great multimedia features like an 8-megapixel camera with HD video capture, HDMI output, and DLNA support. The smartphone can also be used as a mobile hot spot.

The bad: Camera is a bit sluggish. Motoblur software is a lot better but still not quite as refined as HTC Sense. Lacks a front-facing camera.

The bottom line: The Motorola Droid X makes another fine addition to Verizon's Android family, bringing with it a rich multimedia experience and more connectivity features.

Preventing Smart phone Armageddon

2010-09-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

In addition, with cell phones, in some sense the stakes are higher: because bandwidth on wireless networks is at such a premium, if there were as many smart phones enlisted in the ranks of the world's hacker-controlled zombie computers as there are PCs, it would almost certainly affect network performance, making the wireless Web that much more difficult for everyone to access......

If hackers got access to enough smart phones, they could paralyze wireless communications.

In 2009, Scott Totzke, vice president of security at Research in Motion -- maker of the Blackberry smartphone -- told Reuters that his nightmare scenario was a type of attack in which a sufficient number of smart phones in a given area were compromised in a way that they would send so much data through a local cell phone network that normal cell phone service would effectively be knocked out.

Now researchers are working on a way to prevent the kind of malicious access that would allow such an attack. The bad news is it's nowhere near being implemented yet, leaving many smartphones vulnerable to being compromised and exploited.

To understand the attack, which is the cellphone equivalent of what's known as a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, it helps to understand that something like it has happened before -- on 9/11. On that day a phenomenon common to many natural disasters and large-scale emergencies occurred: everyone tried to call out from or into the Manhattan cell phone network at once, overloading the network and making it almost impossible for calls to get through.

In a smartphone DDoS attack, hackers would have to get access to a sufficient number of phones in the same area, and then, all at once, get them to start pushing as much data through the network as possible. When this happens on the Internet, with conventional PCs and routers, it can bring a targeted Web site to its knees, making it impossible for anyone to access it.

Even if an attack of this kind never happens -- fortunately it's unlikely, given its scale and the still limited reach of smartphone viruses, trojan horses and rootkits -- the growing ubiquity of smartphones, along with the sensitive information they carry, makes it likely that exploits for these phones will continue to proliferate. That could be more than just a route to identity theft - rogue software could also slow the cell phone networks in general.

The solution, proposes a pair of researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder, is to devise an effective way to check smartphones for viruses. It sounds simple, but the problem is that smartphones don't have the battery life to be constantly running onboard virus-scanning software. So Bryan Dixon and Shivakant Mishra propose running the virus scans on the PC to which smartphones are so often connected.

In this way, the smartphone could send over hashes of all the files on the phone - hashes are small representations of large files - and the PC could use this information to determine which files have changed since the last time the phone was connected, scanning only those files in order to save time.

The researchers admit that their strategy wouldn't be able to defeat a rootkit (software that gives a malicious hacker total control of the phone and to some extent replaces its operating system), but they argue there are also potentially strategies for determining whether a phone has been compromised in this way. These strategies include, for example, timing how long the phone takes to respond to certain challenges - a rootkit might be able to provide the right answer, but it wouldn't be as quick at doing the calculations as the phone's native OS.

Smartphones are now computers, which means that they are vulnerable to the same kinds of exploits as computers. While Apple and RIM have created walled gardens for their software to minimize the access points for malicious software, the Android market does not - it's basically a ratings and trust-based system. In addition, with cell phones, in some sense the stakes are higher: because bandwidth on wireless networks is at such a premium, if there were as many smart phones enlisted in the ranks of the world's hacker-controlled zombie computers as there are PCs, it would almost certainly affect network performance, making the wireless Web that much more difficult for everyone to access.

Toshiba Recall Signals Larger Trend

2010-09-04T22:33:00.000-07:00

The engineering of the internal components of the laptop are critical to provide adequate airflow for the fan to do its job and expel the heat from the case, but that is increasingly difficult as manufacturers work to make smaller, thinner notebooks cramming even more heat-generating components into a smaller space.

Hot Laptops, Toshiba

Toshiba is the latest laptop vendor to fall victim to overheating technology. The recall of approximately 41,000 laptops resulting from more than 100 reports of melting laptop cases and minor injuries follows similar issues and recalls from other laptop manufacturers, and illustrates the problem with cramming so much processing power into such a small space.

Toshiba is recalling Satellite T135, Satellite T135D and Satellite ProT130 notebook computers because "The notebook computers can overheat at the notebook's plug-in to the AC adapter, posing a burn hazard to consumers."

If this feels déjà vu its because it is a relatively common occurrence these days for laptops. In July Sony issued a recall of more than half a million Vaio laptops. Mike Lucas, senior vice president of Vaio for Sony, said in a statement "In rare instances, these notebook computers may overheat due to a potential malfunction of the internal temperature management system, resulting in deformation of the product's keyboard or external casing, and a potential burn hazard to consumers."

The Sony recall was immediately following an HP recall of laptop batteries in May. HP recalled over 100,000 laptop batteries in all as a result of mounting reports that the batteries were overheating, rupturing, and posing a risk of injury to users.

While quality control during the engineering and manufacturing process at Toshiba, Sony, and HP is apparently lacking, the issue goes beyond the individual manufacturers and exemplifies problems associated with the demands placed on notebook computers.

Heat is a fact of life with computers. A significant chunk of the cost of implementing and maintaining a data center is wrapped up in keeping the room at a tolerable temperature. Try turning off all of the computer equipment in your office or home and see how quickly the temperature drops.

Processors run hot. Batteries produce a significant amount of heat. The engineering of the internal components of the laptop are critical to provide adequate airflow for the fan to do its job and expel the heat from the case, but that is increasingly difficult as manufacturers work to make smaller, thinner notebooks cramming even more heat-generating components into a smaller space.

Thankfully, Intel and AMD have developed new processor technologies that incorporate more functions onto a single chip. Combining the core processing and graphics processing onto one chip instead of two greatly reduces the power consumption and heat output for newer laptops.

mTrip iPhone app uses augmented reality

2010-09-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

Developers are dreaming big about the concept, but it's not necessarily for everyone. It was cool, but when the initial ooh-aah value wore off, I found myself wanting to walk around and look at the world. John Boris, executive vice president for Lonely Planet in the U.S., said the feature can only do so much.

The new iPhone application mTrip is a travel guide and then some: It uses the latest in smart phone technology to make it easier to stay on track in a foreign locale.

But isn't getting lost part of the fun of traveling? For me, yes. For others, maybe not.

So-called "augmented reality" became more widely available about a year ago and takes advantage of a smart phone's GPS and compass features, along with access tohigh-speed wireless networks, to mash up super-local Web content with the world that surrounds you.

It works like this: You turn on the application, hit the augmented reality button and then look through your phone's camera at the Brooklyn Bridge or the Empire State Building. Icons pop up that show you other points of interest, or restaurants within a half mile of your location, whether the restaurant is open, and what reviewers are saying about it.

The feature feels a bit like being in a "Matrix" film, but in a good way. I used the application for New York. Being a local, I was impressed with the restaurant selections and shopping options that popped up when I pointed my camera down Broadway in SoHo, or more off-the-beaten-path locations like my neighborhood, Carroll Gardens in Brooklyn.

The mTrip developers partnered with Sparks, a massive travel guide company, to provide content but also rely on user-generated reviews and suggestions. There's a spot in the app that allows you to send a new place back to mTrip for reviews and additions to its list.

The app also has something called mTrip genius, which works similarly to the genius feature in iTunes. You note whether you want more or fewer parks, religion or monuments, and it designs an itinerary for you.

Overall, I felt the app was a bit busy, offering perhaps so much it could distract the user from the travel at hand, but developer Frederic de Pardieu noted it's not necessary to use every feature offered.

"We give you options," he said. "You do with them what you like."

The first phones with Google's Android operating system, which enables augmented reality, came out in the past year. The iPhone became augmented-reality friendly with the compass that debuted in June 2009 on the iPhone 3GS. Apple also recently joined Google in making it possible for software developers to overlay images on the phone's camera view.

mTrip doesn't specify that you need a newer phone to use this feature. I don't have one and had to spend a while wrangling a newer phone to borrow in order to test the app, so beware before buying that you have the right device to take full advantage.

That said, augmented reality still feels like it hasn't fully arrived. The technology can generally pinpoint location to within 30 feet if the user is outdoors, but inside you're lost. Businesses I saw on the screen weren't actually in front of me, though they were nearby. But I'm not sure I'd have known that if I was using the app in a foreign city. Often tags sometimes just kind of dart around on the screen and it honestly didn't make it easier to FIND the locale, simply noting the locale existed.

Another problem: Using GPS for extended periods sucked up the battery life on both my phone and my borrowed iPhone 4 quicker than usual.

Developers are dreaming big about the concept, but it's not necessarily for everyone. It was cool, but when the initial ooh-aah value wore off, I found myself wanting to walk around and look at the world. John Boris, executive vice president for Lonely Planet in the U.S., said the feature can only do so much.

"Travelers want to be able to fold up their phone and see physically in a virtual world what is around them," he said. "We can help you get to the heart of the place, but we can't carry you around."

Lonely Planet has Compass Guides that use the augmented reality feature with the Google Android, all in international cities.

"It's the continuing evolution of the traveler's toolkit," Boris said. "It's an important component of today and for tomorrow. But, there will be another piece of technology right around the corner."

Acer Aspire TimelineX AS4820T Review

2010-09-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

Is the Acer Timeline X AS4820T worth your money? Yes, it looks good. But, the average performance of the GPU switch is what brings it down. If you want a good looking laptop which you can flaunt in the boardroom and will only use it for basic tasks without the headache of switching between the 2 GPUs, this could be a good pick.

This laptop from Acer's TimelineX Series is the AS4820T. If you have seen the size-zero Vaio X series from Sony, then you will immediately associate the outer body of the Acer with it.

It has got a nice black metal finish which means that there won't be any finger prints. The shiny metal finish continues on the inside with a neatly laid giant touchpad and a tactile keyboard. Although the keys are great to type with, the build quality is not so.

The keys are quite wobbly. But in case of the touchpad, it is one of the best we have ever used smooth and responsive. The touchpad also supports pinch-and-zoom with two fingers. There is an obvious lag when you try to pinch or zoom into your photos, but then that's not what this touchpad is primarily going to be used for.

Clean, glossy lines make up the top with power buttons and almost invisible speakers. All in all, it has a great design. But the best part is that even with a DVD drive, it's extremely light at just 2.1 kg. The screen is a beautiful, bright 14-inch one with backlit LED making Acer 4820TG really good to look at.

It has an Intel Core i5 -430 M 2.26Ghz processor with 4GB of RAM. In addition, it also has a 500GB HDD and an ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 Graphics card. This ensures good video quality when you view your media or even want to play games.

The OS is Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit which is responsive and works without hassles most of the time. But, if you open more than six applications and then try to watch a movie, it will start to freeze.

Like Nvidia's optimus technology, this too, has two graphic processing units (GPUs) which switch between high performance and low to give you optimal performance for computing. What Nvidia Optimus does is switch to a high performance GPU, that is ATI, when it has to run programmes with high graphic content and switch to the Intel GPU for the low menial computational tasks.

But then, you will have to do this manually as it doesn't switch automatically. If you are a new user, you wouldn't even probably know it's there as Acer has not mentioned this anywhere. A dedicated switch would have been better.

Regarding the actual workings of the switch, Acer recommends that you shut down all applications before you switch to GPU. If you switch without shutting down your programmes, the screen freezes. The 2 GPUS are a pain to switch on. They do their job but with a lot of hiccups.

All standard forms of connectivity are present -- USB, HDMI out, Ethernet, standard headphone jack and Wi-Fi. Multimedia is a pleasure to view on this laptop as it supports full HD in 1080p in 16:9. The speakers are pretty good too and enhance the sound via Virtual Surround Sound making it slightly better than the speakers on most laptops.

Is the Acer Timeline X AS4820T worth your money? Yes, it looks good. But, the average performance of the GPU switch is what brings it down. If you want a good looking laptop which you can flaunt in the boardroom and will only use it for basic tasks without the headache of switching between the 2 GPUs, this could be a good pick.

Microphone And Camera in the Next iPod Touch

2010-08-30T22:41:00.000-07:00

The importance of this news is more than believed because of course if we combine the new iPod Touch with a microphone with a VoIP service like Skype or fringe, this is an entertainment gadget communication wherever connection WiFi. And, most importantly, the operators have no power over the iPod touch as to block this capability (it is also recalled that recently it was rumored that the next iPod Touch will have a much bigger screen).

After the appearance of the new iPhone 3GS many expected that Apple will also update iPod Touch but those hopes a little watered down when we found out that unlike the old iPhone 3G users, people who have an iPod touch should pay about 10 dollars to have the OS 3.0 … that was not a good sign by the people from Apple with respect to the device.

Wired But now a source reveals that “well connected” he assured them would be to get a new iPod Touch with a microphone and camera. Factories in China and Apple would be manufacturing the device and is expected to arrive in two or three months.

The truth would be a good move for Apple (especially competing in the segment of the tablets) because we would be talking about an iPod touch would be extremely useful to navigate with ease and know that the iPhone, take photos and enjoy free calls .

Sony Ericsson W890i Review

2010-08-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

Bigger is really better with the Sony Ericsson W890i. Its got a pumped-up camera 3.2MP and is also 7 grams heavier and slightly wider about 2.5mm but disappears when you slip into your pocket.

The Good: Gorgeous brushed silver finish fit for a Terminator. Smooth and improved keypad. 2GB stick included. 3G. Decent sound recorder. Decent earbuds. Solid battery life. MusicDJ app lets you compose original ringtones on-the-go. A paused track holds its place, even after phone shuts down.

The Bad: Phone can’t take calls and won’t display caller ID during mass storage transfer or while connected via USB. The result: beaucoup missed calls! Camera needs a flash (yesterday!). Memory slot can’t be accessed without removing battery cover. No 3.5 mm jack. No wi-fi. Despite a near-perfect keypad, the tiny menu buttons can feel a little cramped. Radio only plays with headphones (i.e., no boombox’d NPR).

The Bottomline: The best improvement to the W890i is that it can swallow a 4GB stick, delivering twice the tuneage of the W880i.

Nokia E66 Slider Review

2010-08-29T21:51:00.000-07:00

Nokia E66 - the latest email-optimized device from the Nokia Eseries product range. Slide-to-open Nokia E66 easily mobilize a broad range of personal or professional messaging needs, including Microsoft Exchange, the world's most widely adopted corporate email solution.

The Nokia E66 is a slim but luxurious GSM slider smartphone running Symbian S60, with Wi-Fi, GPS, 3G and a 3.2MP camera, to name a few of its many features.

The Good: Calls on the phone are loud and clear both directions. Thin form factor and grippy textured back make it enjoyable to hold. Got a decent flash camera that takes sharp pictures and video.Wi-Fi and 3G load fast in the browser.

The Bad: Symbian doesn’t feel very fast. Apps and options are buried deep in menus. Displaysn non-optimized pages in actual size so it’s hard to navigate the screen

The Bottomline: It’s good, but it’s not $500 good, especially without a qwerty.

Toshiba Satellite T215D-S1140RD Review

2010-08-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

The good: Better-than-Netbook performance; solid keyboard; good selection of ports for its size.

The bad: Unimpressive battery life; for a nearly $500, may not offer the CPU horsepower one might expect.

The bottom line: An update to last year's T115, the Toshiba Satellite T215D-S1140RD performs like a slightly larger, faster Netbook with better specs and ports. It's definitely a step up, but it may not be enough computer for those with higher expectations.

Weighing less than four pounds, and measuring just an inch thin, this easy traveler is a cinch to carry. Yet it offers an 11.6" diagonal HD TruBrite® widescreen LED backlit display — well-sized for multitasking, work or play. Plus, it has the horsepower to handle the day’s tasks or evening’s entertainment, along with a great communications package to keep you effective and in touch. The AMD® Athlon II Neo K125 processor offers tremendous multimedia capabilities.

Box Contents - Toshiba T215D-S1140RD Notebook PC, 6-Cell Lithium-Ion Battery, 45W AC Adapter
AMD Athlon II Neo K125 1.7GHz Processor
1MB L2 Cache, 1.6GT/s
2GB DDR3 RAM (8GB max)
250GB (5400 RPM) SATA Hard Drive with Impact Sensor (3D sensor)

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Canon PowerShot SD3500 Review

2010-08-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

The good: Nice design; large touch-screen LCD; Eye-Fi memory card support.

The bad: Slow shooting performance.

The bottom line: The Canon PowerShot SD3500 IS offers up decent photos, touch-screen controls, and an ultrawide-angle lens, but that's pretty much where the excitement ends.

Product Features

3.5-inch LCD with Touch Panel Technology; customization of touch screen icons and touch AF/AE
14.1-megapixel resolution for high-quality prints up to 16.5 x 23.4 inches
24mm ultra wide-angle lens; 5x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer
720p HD movie shooting capability plus HDMI output
Smart AUTO will intelligently selecting from 22 predefined settings; scene modes such as Miniature Effect and Fisheye Effect

Technical Details

Brand Name: Canon
Model: SD3500IS Black
Optical Sensor Resolution: 14.1 MP
Optical zoom: 5 x

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