BlackBerry Expressions - All About BlackBerry Protection With Style

Tablets Are Fun But Won't Replace My Computer Anytime Soon

2011-10-20T03:45:00.009-04:00

When we think of tablets, the first thing to come to mind is the Apple iPad. Some might also think of devices like the BlackBerry Playbook, Samsung Galaxy Tablet, or Motorola Xoom depending on your preferred flavor.

The point is that tablets are insanely popular right now (primarily thanks to Apple). Their portability has revolutionized the way we enjoy music and videos and brought wireless convenience for reading, web browsing, and social networking.

Tablets can do some pretty cool stuff. But the reason I don't own one is simple. They are not practical or productive. They are hype. Period.

If your laptop is down, you could probably manage to write up a blog post or edit a spreadsheet with a tablet (you could probably manage to do this on your BlackBerry as well). But you wouldn't do it easily. Ever try to type accurately and efficiently on a touch screen device? Not gonna happen. Forget about any serious photo or video editing as well.

The bottom line is that tablets are designed for fun and are being sold primarily based on Apple's genius marketing tactics. I certainly mean no insult to anyone who happens to own a tablet. We are all guilty of succumbing to high-pressure marketing tactics that prey on social acceptance factors.

Many speculate that tablets are the future of computing and may someday be the primary computing device of the majority. The notion that a tablet will someday replace the desktop or laptop computer baffles me.

Tablets have been around for years; well before Apple popularized them with the release of the iPad in 2010. They never caught on though. And for good reason. It took innovation in marketing to bring these "almost" computers to the masses. But innovation in marketing will never trump innovation in functionality.

On one end you have your 15 inch laptop with a physical keyboard and ample computing power. On the other end you have high performance smartphones with 4.5 inch displays and dual core processors. Where exactly does the tablet fit in here? It doesn't really.

Ok, maybe I'm being a bit old-fashioned here. I can understand how the tablet can be seen as a "cool" device and is enough for users who don't do much more that check email and casually browse the Web. I'm just not seeing where tablet computing is going.

It seems that eventually the hype will wear off and they'll be a bunch of tablet users out there that suddenly realize that they have a relatively useless device on their hands.

I have to admit that the the recent release of the Amazon Fire tablet had me somewhat intrigued (mainly because of the reasonable price tag). However, after some thought, I just couldn't justify purchasing a tablet knowing that I would inevitably regret it when I realized it couldn't do much more that my smartphone can.

Is it just me? Do I just have a attitude spiteful of change? I don't think so.

Feel free to enlighten me below by leaving a comment.

Wes

Prediction: A Thunderous Wave Will Overcome Your BlackBerry Torch 9800 Series

2011-10-20T02:47:00.000-04:00

Please forgive the overly dramatic title of this post. I just couldn't resist. I'm not implying that a doomsday disaster is forthcoming, I'm just hyping up the the Great Wave protective skin for the BlackBerry Torch 9800/9810. Bear with me here.

The Great Wave was created by artist Katsushika Hokusai (don't even try to pronounce his name) and then cleverly imprinted into this durable skin cover by GelaSkins. The Great Wave skin features a vibrant image of a thrashing Tsunami with a snow-capped volcano in the backround that is digitally-imprinted into premium, silicone vinyl material. The design is reminiscent of Japanese culture and even signed by "Kat" using Japanese calligraphy.

The Great Wave Skin Cover for Torch 9800/9810

Ever used a skin cover on your Torch? Protective skins are a great way to bring a totally new look to your device without voiding your warranty or bringing unwanted bulk. The Great Wave skin has a special adhesive backing that goes on and comes off cleanly. This means it won't leave any sticky residue behind or cause any marring on the Torch's body. The skin is made of durable silicone material that provides years of scratch protection yet is paper-thin to maintain the slim profile of your Torch.

Of course, all buttons and ports are fully accessible through the skin and it won't interfere with the slider functionality of the Torch 9800/9810. You can even use a full-fledged protective case over top if you so choose. GelaSkins also provides a free, matching wallpaper to complete the Great Wave design via your Torch 9800/9810 display.

The Great Wave skin for the BlackBerry Torch 9800 Series is compatible with both the Torch 9800 and 9810. Click-through for more details at the BB Expressions Store and don't forget to leave a comment below to let us know what you think!

Wes

Why Does Apple Sell So Many Frickin' iPhones?

2011-10-12T05:44:00.001-04:00

The latest iPhone has received a less than stellar acceptance from the Apple community due to it's lack of exciting new features. The iPhone 4S features a faster processor, and nifty new voice app called Siri, and the updated iOS 5. Otherwise, it is pretty similar to the previous iPhone model, the iPhone 4, with the same physical dimensions and appearance.

So why in the heck did the iPhone 4S set a new sales record of more than 1 million sold during the pre-order period? It baffles the mind that Apple has such a hold on it's users that they can openly curse Apple for the not giving them a new superstar of a phone and then rush out and buy 'em all up. Guess that goes to show just how powerful hype can be.

Now I'm not looking to get into one of those "mine is better than yours" flaming wars that you see in the forums pretty regularly (well maybe I am), but I just gotta know how much longer this hyped up device is going to hog the headlines.

Anyway, I just had to get this off my chest. Thoughts?

I would also like to extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late, great Steve Jobs. I may give Apple products somewhat negative flack sometimes but no one can deny the impact this man had on modern technology and the way we communicate. I understand that it is probable that the heavy sales of the latest iPhone are a tribute to Mr. Jobs' passing; which is great.

Wes

Got Your War Face On Your BlackBerry Storm 2?

2011-10-10T14:39:00.001-04:00

War 2 Skin for BlackBerry Storm 9520/9550

If you're looking for a truly, and I mean truly, unique skin for your Storm 2 that conveys an eerie, war-like mask of death (do you know you're kinda creepy?) then check out the War 2 skin by DecalGirl.

This blood-colored, skull-themed skin cover for the Storm 2 will bring a vibrant and dramatic look to your device while keeping it protected from scratches in the trenches. All buttons and ports on the Storm 2 are completely accessible and the skin will not interfere with the touch screen functionality.

At only $7.99, the War 2 skin for the BlackBerry Storm 2 (9520/9550) is an economical way to change up the look of your device as well. Click-through for more details and don't forget to leave a comment below with your opinions of the War 2 skin design.

Wes

DecalGirl Carbon Fiber Skin for BlackBerry Playbook

2011-10-08T11:03:00.008-04:00


Carbon Skin for BlackBerry Playbook

Looking for some carbon fiber style on your new BlackBerry Playbook? The Carbon skin cover will bring a simple yet elegant carbon fiber design to your Playbook while keeping it protected from scratches and dings.

The Carbon skin is made of super-thin yet highly-durable silicone vinyl material. The skin will add almost zero bulk to your Playbook to maintain the low-profile while improving comfort and grip. The skin covers the front and back of the Playbook for complete protection and has a unique, channeled adhesive that allows for easy installation and clean removal.

The thin design of the skin also allows for full compatibility with third-party docking accessories and protective cases. Touch screen functions are completely unobstructed and all buttons and ports are accessible via cutouts in the skin. Don't worry about the carbon fiber design fading since the skin is coated with a clear laminate to preserve the resolution.

And... DecalGirl includes a free, matching wallpaper to match the carbon fiber look via your BlackBerry Playbook display. Instructions for downloading the wallpaper are included with the skin.

The Carbon Skin for the BlackBerry PlayBookis available in high-gloss finish for a vibrant and shiny appearance or a matte finish to help prevent excessive glare. Don't forget to get a matching Carbon Fiber skin for your BlackBerry smartphone. Check out the DecalGirl store to browse all Blackberry Skins.

Questions or comments below...

Wes

Ohio State Buckeyes Football Skins for BlackBerry Devices

2011-10-08T09:50:00.009-04:00

Got any BlackBerry usin', Ohio State Buckeyes fans out there? Now you can sport the Scarlet and Gray on your BlackBerry with the Ohio State Buckeyes skins from Skinit.

The Ohio State skins are available for all top BlackBerry models (see list of models below) and feature Skinit's durable, 3M vinyl material for long-lasting scratch and ding protection. The skins allows the full functionality of your BlackBerry with precisely-located cutouts for all buttons and ports.

Ohio State Buckeyes Helmet Skin for Torch 9800/9810

Skinit skins feature an ultra-thin profile that adds nearly zero bulk to your BlackBerry. This means the skins maintain full compatibility with third-party docking stations and you can even use a full-fledged protective case over top for times when you need some extra impact protection.

Ohio State Buckeyes Helmet Skin for Bold 9700/9780

The vibrant, colorful Ohio State image is fully-licensed and features a clear laminate coating to preserve the image resolution. The Ohio State skins cover both the front and back of your BlackBerry for full device protection from scratches. Choose your device below to start displaying your pride for the Ohio State Buckeyes via your BlackBerry smartphone.

Ohio State Skins for BlackBerry by Skinit:

Don't see your BlackBerry model? Visit the Skinit store for the full collection of Ohio State Blackberry Skins.

And since I'm an Ohio resident, I'll conclude with the chant that every Ohio State fan should know... O - H ... (if you don't know how to finish this then you're in the wrong place). Questions and comments below!

Wes

Style Your Style - Cool Cases for the BlackBerry 9670

2011-10-04T14:38:00.010-04:00

The BlackBerry Style 9670 is the latest clamshell creation from RIM and, IMHO, is simply a cool little phone. The compact size, convenient form factor, and great functionality of this device makes me wonder why this BlackBerry wasn't more popular than it turned out to be. Nevertheless, you have a BlackBerry Style and love it, otherwise you wouldn't be reading this article and about to discover some great new cases that will add even more style to your...well...Style.

Mybat cases for the BlackBerry Style 9670 feature hard-shell, polycarbonate construction and a simple, snap-on design. What really makes these cases stand out is the variety of dazzling colors and designs that can add a totally new look (and personality) to your BlackBerry 9670. Check these cases out for an economical and effective way to bring protective style to your 9670.

The Jamaican Fabric case for the BlackBerry Style brings the look of Jamaican culture to your 9670 and features a textured surface for improved comfort and grip:

Jamaican Fabric Case for BlackBerry Style

If you're a "flowery" kinda person then the Spring Flowers Snap-On for the BlackBerry Style 9670 might be your cup of tea:

Spring Flowers Case for BlackBerry Style

Want some color on your 9670? The Titanium Solid case for the 9670 comes in several vibrant colors like Red, Hot Pink, and Blue and features a titanium-like, rubberized finish for a great feel:

Titanium Hot Pink Case for Style 9670

The Phoenix Tail snap-on for the Style is a diamante case featuring a swirling design of pink and silver colors. The diamante styling adds a touch of class as well as improved ergonomics with it's comfortable feel:

Phoenix Tail Diamante Case for Style 9670

Let us not forget that the BlackBerry Style 9670 has a great natural appearance. Maybe you would like to add some extra impact protection to your Style without hiding the native styling of the device. How about the T-Clear case for the 9670:

T-Clear Case for the BlackBerry Style 9670

So watta ya think? If none of these cool cases for the Style 9670 does it for you, take a gander at our complete selection of stylish cases and skins for the BlackBerry Style at the BlackBerry Expressions Store. Let us know what you think!

Wes

Social Feeds for BlackBerry is a Very Handy App Indeed

2011-10-04T03:17:00.004-04:00

I'll be honest, RIM-developed apps like Facebook and Twitter for BlackBerry leave much to be desired with their buggy nature and limited functionality. I don't claim to be an expert in mobile app development but I am an avid BlackBerry user and, therefore, feel qualified to gripe or praise as I see fit.

That said, I am now going to go the other way and commend RIM on the Social Feeds for BlackBerry app that comes bundled with BlackBerry OS 6 and 7 (I use it on my Bold 9650). After reluctantly opening Social Feeds and checking out the features and functionality, I decided that it beats many other free RSS apps on the market (I was using Xprss but dabbled with a few others).

What makes Social Feeds so darn handy is it's ease of use when it comes to adding RSS or social feeds. The app integrated with the Facebook and Twitter apps (yes, I use both of them anyway) seamlessly and automatically unlike other RSS readers that require that you enter an actual url to the feeds. Just go to the "Social Filter" section, select "Options" from the BlackBerry Menu, and put a checkmark by the appropriate social app you wish to integrate with. You can integrate BBM, Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace apps with Social Feeds.

The real power of the Social Feeds app is it's ease of use when adding RSS feeds and the convenient presentation of the feeds. When it comes to adding a RSS feed you have a couple of options. You can go to the website via the BlackBerry browser and while on a page of the site, press the BlackBerry Menu button. An option appears in the menu that reads "subscribe to RSS feed" and you simply click it to add the feed to the Social Feeds app.

Alternatively, you can click the BlackBerry Menu button from within the "RSS Filter" section of the Social Feeds app and select "New RSS Feed". From there you can enter an actual RSS url and the app will search the website for which you want the feed and offer you the option to subscribe if it is valid. You can also simply enter a general url (home page for example) of the site that you wish to find the RSS feed for and the app will search the site for the exact RSS url (this option works in many cases but Social Feeds doesn't always find the exact RSS url).

After you have subscribed to your feeds of interest, browsing the feed info is a breeze. Your feed titles show up in the header and each feed item is separated by time/date. Swipe your thumb right or left on the trackpad (or on the touch screen if applicable) to switch the view to a different RSS feed. Scroll up in down in the same way to see the different topics of the feed. Click on a story of interest and a "teaser" of the article/posting appears along with a "View Full Story" link at the bottom to go to the actual web page for a complete read.

After I discovered the convenient interface of Social Feeds, I find it incredibly easy to catch up on news and such on my BlackBerry and spend a lot of time using the app. I mentioned that I used Xprss before. One thing that Xprss offers that Social Feeds doesn't is category management of feeds. Xprss also offers pre-installed feeds for the most popular RSS feeds (most of which I followed anyway). Nevertheless, Social Feeds is much less redundant and allows me to get more reading done instead of selecting options and navigating endlessly to get where I want to be.

As I mentioned before, Social Feeds is bundled with newer BlackBerry devices running OS 6 or later; meaning that it is already on your BlackBerry if you have these operating system versions installed. If you for some reason removed it from your device (many people do this assuming the app, like many RIM-developed apps, is crap), you can reinstall it using BlackBerry Desktop Manager on your computer. The Social Feeds app is not available for download at BlackBerry App World.

So if you haven't explored the features of the Social Feeds App for BlackBerry, I recommend you take a minute to do so. I think you'll find it be a surprisingly useful and well-developed application for keeping up with current events via your BlackBerry. Already using the Social Feeds app? Leave a comment below and tell us what you think.

Wes

Get Otterbox All Over Your New BlackBerry Bold 9900/9930

2011-10-03T02:58:00.001-04:00

The all-new BlackBerry Bold 9900/9930 (a.k.a. the Bold Touch) sports the revamped BlackBerry 7 operating system with a whole slew of new functions and features. The most notable feature of the new Bold Touch is the addition of touch screen functionality on top of the coveted BlackBerry physical keyboard. You paid a handsome price for your new Bold 9900 Series and a premium protective case should be on top of the list of planned accessories. In come the Otterbox lineup of protective cases for the Bold 9900/9930.

In case you have been living in a cave for the past few years, Otterbox is the one of the most respected case manufacturers in the market today. Their cases stem from intense research into the lives of mobile users and with the Defender, Commuter, or Impact Series cases, there is sure to be a solution that fits your lifestyle.

The Otterbox Defender marks the top of the line in Otterbox's lineup with it's three-layer protective system the protects virtually every part of your Bold Touch. A rigid, inner skeleton snaps together over your Bold 9900/9930 and is then covered by a soft, silicone layer. The layers work together to bring the most effective impact protection available. A premium grade screen protector for the Bold 9900 Series display is also included to complete the three-layer system. The Defender includes a ratcheting belt clip/holster combo that houses the Bold 9900/9930 with the face in for protection while on the hip.

Otterbox Defender for Bold 9900/9930

Then there's the Otterbox Commuter case for the Bold Touch. The Commuter brings elements from both the Defender and Impact Series (mentioned next) cases incorporating multi-layer protection but slimming down the profile a bit. The Commuter uses a soft, silicone layer first and then adds the rigid, smooth outer layer over top. All parts of the Bold 9900/9930 remain protected but the Commuter is scaled down to allow for a much lighter, low-bulk design. Screen protection for the Bold 9900 Series display is also included with the Commuter.

Otterbox Commuter for Bold 9900/9930

Last, but not least, there's the Otterbox Impact case for the Bold Touch. The Impact is a skin-like case design that simply slips over your 9900. The Impact is the slimmest and lightest case design of the bunch and features the lowest cost as well. The case is constructed completely of durable, silicone material and features reinforced points at the corners to protect the Bold Touch from impacts at it's most vulnerable areas. A premium screen protector is included with the Impact Series case as well.

Otterbox Impact Case for Bold 9900/9930

So there you have it. Otterbox has got your new BlackBerry Bold 9900 Series covered. All you have to do is choose a case design that fits your lifestyle to ensure you have adequate protection but maintain the usability and convenience you need. Many users opt for more than one Otterbox design to ensure they have the proper protection for different circumstances. To each their own but of all the cases I have reviewed (and used personally), Otterbox still remains one of my favorites.

For more details, including pricing, see the Otterbox case lineup for the BlackBerry Bold Touch 9900/9930 at the BlackBerry Expressions Store.

Wes

Five Truly Unique Skins for Your BlackBerry Torch 9850/9860

2011-10-03T01:47:00.005-04:00

So you're sporting a new BlackBerry Torch 9850/9860 aye? Even though this new and improved, touchscreen-only BlackBerry (let's just pretend that the Storm Series never happened) features some pretty elegant styling right from the factory, you may be contemplating adding a more personalized look to your device. If you've got interests leaning toward the side of contemporary art, you may find these five skin designs from GelaSkins appealing as they feature truly dazzling and unique images from some of the world's most talented artists. Here we go!

The Swinging DAIM Skin for Blackberry Torch 9850/9860comes from German graffiti artist DAIM and features a spectacular, sculpture-like image of what can only be described as "crashed" metal. With vibrant shades of green embedded in a crumpled scene of metal anarchy, DAIM brings his "spray can" artistic style to your Torch 9850/9860.

Photoshop master Derek Prospero is responsible for the detailed and colorful Motherboard design. The Motherboard skin for Blackberry Torch 9850/9860 will appeal to the computer-oriented BlackBerry users ("geeks" is so overused these days) and features a highly-detailed, electronica image consisting of computer board components exposed in colorful harmony.

Infinite Oz for Blackberry Torch 9850/9860 features a reminiscent farmhouse scene with a seemingly approaching tornado on a dramatic sunset backround. Artist Philip Straub specializes in traditional but imaginative designs bursting with luminous flavor and will bring your Torch 9850/9860 a protective style like no other.

The Soundtrack (To My Life) for Blackberry Torch 9850/9860 features one of GelaSkins most popular skin designs by artist Luke Chueh and is affectionately known simply as "The Soundtrack". Chueh's love for simple animal characters shows with this broken record-toting, head phone-wearing, bear-like image on a hazy gray backdrop.

Neo New York for the Torch 9850/9860 is a creation of artist Camilla d'Errico. Getting her start with comics, Camilla's style evolved to portraits that usually include images of big-eyed girls. Neo New York portrays a bustling city scene in a rainy New York setting with vibrant pink highlights purposely exploited with a seemingly lonely young lady. This skin design will leave much room for interpretation and is sure to be a conversation starter.

So there you have it. No doubt that any of these five protective skin designs for the Torch 9850/9860 will add a look to your device that makes a statement. As with all art, interpretation and meaning will vary. Regardless, you have to give GelaSkins credit where credit is due in offering some of the most unique skin styles available in the market. What do you think? Leave a comment below and share your opinion!

Wes

I Dream of Dolphins - Dolphin Dream Skin for BlackBerry Playbook

2011-10-02T22:37:00.001-04:00

Dolphin Daydream Skin for BB Playbook

If you're a BlackBerry Playbook usin', dolphin lovin' kinda person, DecalGirl has the skin for you. The Dolphin Daydream protective skin for the BlackBerry Playbook features a colorful image of a swimming dolphin that will also bring superb scratch protection to your tablet.

The Dolphin Daydream skin covers the front and back of the BlackBerry Playbook and adds almost zero bulk to the device. All buttons and ports are accessible through precisely-located cutouts in the skin and the premium silicone material will improve comfort and grip while handling your Playbook. The Dolphin Daydream design is digitally-imprinted into the skin material to ensure long-lasting image resolution.

I'm a big fan of protective skins since they bring the best of both worlds - great style and great protective qualities. Should you need to install a full-fledged protective case for a bit more impact protection, the Dolphin Daydream skin is thin enough to allow full compatibility without removing the skin. The skin will also allow the use of hands-free stands and third-party docking accessories that you may use with your Playbook.

Installation is simply a matter of matching the appropriate pieces of the skin to the corresponding section of your Playbook and applying with the special adhesive backing. The skin will not leave any sticky gook behind when it is removed and the unique adhesive allows for easy positioning to ensure an evenly-placed installation.

The Dolphin Daydream skin is also coated with a high-gloss finish to both improve the appearance of the design and preserve the image resolution. The durable skin material will bring years of scratch protection to your Playbook but is easily removable should you decide to change skin designs.

The Dolphin Daydream skin for the BlackBerry Playbook is compatible with all versions of the BlackBerry Playbook including the 16gb, 32gb, and 64gb models. Click-through for more details on this vibrant protective skin design for the Playbook.

Wes

The Red, White, and Blue on Your BlackBerry Playbook With the Stars and Stripes Skin

2011-10-02T21:43:00.001-04:00

Stars and Stripes Skin for BlackBerry Playbook

Show your love for the good ole U.S.A. on your BlackBerry Playbook Tablet with the Stars and Stripes skin cover by GelaSkins. Not only will this skin bring a patriotic design to your Playbook but it will also keep it protected from ugly scratches and dings.

GelaSkins are a great option for adding protection to your BlackBerry Playbook without adding the extra bulk that a full-fledged protective case brings. GelaSkins are made from super-thin, highly-durable silicone material that will provide years of stylish protection and will add almost zero bulk to the Playbook. In fact, most protective cases will fit right over top of the Stars and Stripes skin should you need any extra protection.

The Stars and Stripes skin has cutouts for all the Playbook's buttons and ports to maintain full functionality of the device and won't interfere with the touch screen. And don't worry about voiding your Playbook's factory warranty since GelaSkins are completely removable and won't leave any sticky residue behind. The skin is compatible with all BlackBerry Playbook models (16gb, 32gb, or 64gb).

So if you're looking to add a little "Americana" style to your Playbook while keeping it in pristine condition, click-through the following link for more details on Stars and Stripes for BlackBerry PlayBook by GelaSkins. I should add that GelaSkins includes a free, matching wallpaper (available to download) to complete the Stars and Stripes design via your Playbook display.

Keep in mind that the Stars and Stripes skin is also available for top BlackBerry smartphone models so you can match your handset up with your Playbook!

Wes

Keep Calm and Carry On With Your BlackBerry

2011-10-02T21:03:00.002-04:00

Keep Calm and Carry On Skin for Bold 9700/9780

Not only is GelaSkins offering great advice with the Keep Calm and Carry On skin for BlackBerry, they're also keeping your device safe from scratches and dings for times when you aren't so calm when handling your device. This popular skin design is now available for top BlackBerry models and includes a free, matching wallpaper to complete the Keep Calm design via your BlackBerry display.

The Keep Calm and Carry On skin by GelaSkins is a durable, protective skin that covers all sides of your BlackBerry with a super-thin, silicone material. The Keep Calm design is digitally-imprinted into the skin and coated with a high-gloss laminate to preserve the image resolution. Cutouts for all your BlackBerry buttons and ports are precisely-located to ensure the full functionality of your device.

Keep Calm and Carry On Skin for Torch 9800/9810

So when your feeling a bit stressed or on-edge, you can now take a moment to glance at your BlackBerry for some inspiration to get through the day. The Keep Calm and Carry On skin for BlackBerry is available at the BlackBerry Expressions Store for top BlackBerry devices. Click-through for more details and to buy now.

Wes

Why Hide Your Storm's Natural Beauty - Speck SeeThru for Storm 9500/9530

2011-09-30T14:14:00.002-04:00

If there is one thing the BlackBerry Storm 9500/9530 does have, it's a sleek and stylish design. It would be a shame to conceal the Storm's natural beauty with a case in order to have adequate protection. One might also ask why you would install a cool, colorful protective skin on your BlackBerry Storm only to then hide your new style by covering it with a case. This is when the Speck SeeThru case for the Storm 9500/9530 comes to the rescue.


SeeThru Case for Storm in Clear

The Storm 9500/9530 has a classy and attractive appearance right from the factory. Of course, this doesn't mean that you can't change the natural look of your Storm by adding a protective skin but skins won't help much when it comes to impacts and drops. The Speck SeeThru, as the name implies, is a transparent case that allows your Storm to be fully visible through the case and adds the drop protection you need to keep your Storm safe in less than ideal circumstances.

The SeeThru is a hard shell case that snaps over your Storm 9500/9530 from front to back and includes a belt clip holster for easy transport. The SeeThru is available in Clear for times when you want perfect visibility of your Storm underneath or transparent Red so you can add a bit of translucent color.

SeeThru for Storm in Transparent Red

The SeeThru case provides full access to all the Storm's buttons and ports and won't interfere with the touch screen functions. The polycarbonate construction of the case means superb impact protection and minimal added bulk to the Storm. The holster houses the Storm with either the face-in or face-out so you can keep the Storm's display side protected while in transport or leave it exposed for easy access to notifications.The belt clip is fully ratcheting for adjustable carrying positions.

The Speck SeeThru case for the BlackBerry Storm 9500/9530 is available at the BlackBerry Expressions Store in Red and Clear designs. Click-through for more details on the SeeThru or to buy now. Let your Storm shine through!

Wes

Amazon Kindle Fire Tablet Announced - Simple but Functional Tablet

2011-09-29T03:06:00.010-04:00

Amazon Kindle Fire Tablet

The big news of the week is the official announcement of the anxiously awaited Kindle Fire tablet from Amazon. Of course, the blogging community was quick to label the new Kindle Fire as an iPad killer but after several hands-on reviews of the device from top mobile technology advocates it was obvious that Amazon had other plans.

To be more specific, the Kindle Fire (don't simply call it the Fire) is targeted at potential tablet buyers who don't want to fork up the big cash for the iPad, pricey Android tablets, or even the underrated but quite capable BlackBerry Playbook.

Functionality of the Kindle Fire is up to par with basic tablet standards but does lack most of the bells and whistles found on higher priced tablets, namely the Apple iPad. Amazon has created a device that provides simple and complete access to all of Amazon's online services (i.e., it'll help sell more stuff) .

Amazon has the Kindle Fire priced at a measly $199 and is pushing the Kindle name with it to promote the tablet as a more effective route to Amazon's massive book library, music selection, and movie offerings. Not to mention their very up-to-par App Store as well as the Amazon Store for purchasing pretty much anything else.

The Amazon Kindle Fire runs on a variant of the Android platform but will still require Amazon developed apps to be used on the device. The Kindle Fire has a 7" touch screen display, weighs about 15 ounces, and will not feature Amazon's free 3G service (Wi-Fi only) offered on Kindle eReader-only devices. A capable email client is included but the Kindle Fire will not have a camera.

The extra cost and bigger size of the Kindle Fire still leaves room for the original Kindle eReaders in the market being that they are smaller and designed specifically for reading digital books and priced at roughly half of the Kindle Fire.

The Kindle Fire appears to be a very capable and cost-effective tablet choice for users who keep their interests simple by reading, playing games, and browsing digital media content. The tablet will probably not affect the popularity and ridiculously high sales volume of the iPad but will add some serious competition to other Android tablets as well as the already struggling BlackBerry Playbook.

By the way, the Kindle will be available in the U.S. on November 15, 2011. If you're interested, you can pre-order the Kindle Fire at Amazon. I can honestly say that I am.

Wes

Founder of Doritos Dies at 97 - Will Be Buried With Chips

2011-09-29T01:55:00.002-04:00

On a sad and unrelated note, the founder of the iconic Doritos brand died on September 20 at the age of 97 from natural causes. Arch West has opted for cremation but his remains will be buried and funeral attendees will be encouraged to toss Doritos chips into the grave per the request of his family.

Mr. West introduced Doritos to the Southern California area in 1964 and then nationally in 1966. West was a marketing executive for Frito-Lay and his tasty creation still remains the second-best selling chip for the company behind the Lays potato chip line.

Doritos have been around for as long as I can remember and have always been one of my favorite snacks. It's refreshing to know that Mr. West loved Doritos throughout his life with his daughter stating "I always had them on my shopping list for him, right up to the end". Thank you Mr. West for your contribution to the chip-eating world and rest in peace.

Wes

Source: Reuters

Innocase Active Case for BlackBerry Tour 9630

2011-09-28T14:22:00.001-04:00

Many BlackBerry Tour 9630 users refuse to give in to the newer refresh that is the Bold 9650. Whether it be a fear of change or simply a lack of need since the Tour 9630 remains as one of the most functional BlackBerry devices. Whatever the reason, Tour 9630 users can ensure that their coveted device remains functional for years to come with the Seidio Innocase Active case.

The Innocase Active case, as the name implies, is designed for users who engage in active lifestyles and need a simple yet highly-effective protective solution for their Tour. The Active features a two-layer design - a soft, silicone layer covered by a hard, exterior shell.


Innocase Active for Tour 9630 Back View

The two layers work together to bring superb impact protection to your Tour 9630 while maintaining full functionality. The Active improves comfort and grip with it's exposed silicone sides but allows for easy pocket removal as well with the smooth, outer shell. Push-through technology is incorporated into the case to allow protected access to the Tour's top and side buttons.

At only 2.2 mm thick, the Innocase Active adds very little bulk to your Tour to maintain the low profile. The look and feel of this case is great (I personally use an Active case on my Bold 9650) and the flat black color maintains an "oem" look on your Tour 9630. And... if you should decide to take the leap to the newer Bold 9650 (a.k.a. the Tour 2), the Innocase Active will fit on that device as well since it features the same dimensions and feature placement as the Tour 9630.


Innocase Active for Tour 9630 Front View

The Seidio Innocase Active case for the Tour 9630 is available at the BlackBerry Expressions Store. Click-through for more details on this versatile case for the BlackBerry Tour or to purchase.

Wes

Justin Bieber Love for Your BlackBerry Torch 9800/9810

2011-09-28T13:58:00.001-04:00

Everyone on earth seems to obsessed with Justin Bieber. If you happen to use a BlackBerry Torch 9800/9810, then you can express your love for this young and talented superstar with the Justin Bieber: I Heart JB skin cover.

I Heart JB is brought to you by MusicSkins. These skins are crafted from premium, silicone vinyl material and cover the entire exterior surface of the Torch 9800 or the newer 9810. The JB skin features a photo-quality image of the I Heart JB design and is coated with a high-gloss laminate to preserve the resolution.


I Heart JB Skin for Torch 9800/9810

Installation is simply a matter of matching up the pieces of the skin to the corresponding section of your Torch 9800 or 9810 and applying. The skin has a special adhesive that allows for easy positioning on your Torch and leaves no sticky gook behind after removal.

So if you're looking to show your affection for this lovable, online sensation via your Torch, click-through the following link to get the Justin Bieber skin cover for the BlackBerry Torch 9800/9810.

Wes

A Curve 9300 Series Skin That May Improve Your Golf Game

2011-09-28T13:42:00.001-04:00

The psychology behind your golf swing plays a big part in the success of your game. And I'm not here to tell you that the Golfer protective skin for your BlackBerry Curve 9300/9330 will actually improve it any, but it sure can't hurt to try.

What the Golfer skin for the Curve 3G will do is keep your Curve protected from scratches and dings while your scavenging through the woods looking for your golf ball. And... of course, add some great golf style to your device.


Golfer Skin for Curve 3G

The Golfer skin is brought to you by GelaSkins and features a vibrant, highly-detailed image of a golf ball. The skin covers the front and back of your Curve 9300/9330 and has cutouts for all buttons and ports to maintain full functionality of the device.

The Golfer skin is simple to install on your Curve 3G. Simply match up the pieces of the skin to the appropriate section of your Curve 9300/9930 and apply with the no-mess adhesive backing. The skin is designed to last with the durable, vinyl construction and will not leave any residue behind after removal.

The Golf skin cover for the BlackBerry Curve 3G is designed to fit both the Curve 9300 and 9330 models. Click-through for more details or to purchase from the BlackBerry Expressions Store.

Wes

BlackBerry Curve 8300 Series Skins for Frog Lovers

2011-09-28T13:14:00.001-04:00

If your favorite cold-blooded creature is the frog, then we've got a BlackBerry Curve 8300 Series skin for you. DecalGirl has created the Frog skin lineup for the Curve that feature highly-detailed and colorful images of these lovable amphibians.


DecalGirl Frog for Curve 8300 Series

The DecalGirl frog skins are constructed from durable, silicone vinyl material and cover the front and back of the Curve 8300/8310/8320/8330 for superb scratch protection. The skins add nearly zero bulk to your Curve to allow full compatibility with docking stations and other accessories (including a full-fledged protective case).

The skins allow full access to all Curve buttons and ports. DecalGirl has taken into consideration the movement of the LED indicator on the newer Curve 8330 (the only physical change from earlier Curve 8300 Series models) and offers a modified version of the Frog skins to account for this change.

DecalGirl Peace Out Frog for Curve 8300 Series

The best part is that the Frog skins for the Curve 8300 Series allow you to add froggy style to your device at a great price - only 8 bucks. The skins go on and come off easily and won't leave any sticky residue behind on your Curve. Don't mistake the low price of these skins for questionable quality though as DecalGirl skins are built to last (I personally used a DecalGirl skin on my Storm 2 for several years without issues).

DecalGirl also provides a free, matching wallpaper available for download at the DecalGirl website to complete the frog theme via your Curve 8300 Series display. Click-through the following link for more details on the frog skins for the BlackBerry Curve 8300 Series at the BB Expression Store.

Wes

Nostalgic, Seasonal, Nature Skin Covers for the BlackBerry Bold 9650

2011-09-27T14:27:00.005-04:00

Autumn is upon us and nostalgia fills the air. Time to style your BlackBerry Bold 9650 for the season. GelaSkins offers several skin designs that are ideal for the fall season and will keep your Bold 9650 safe from scratches while rooting around in the pumpkin patch. Here are some great suggestions if your looking to give your Bold 9650 a look reminiscent of Autumn.

First, a bit about GelaSkins protective skins. The skins cover the front, back, top, and sides of your Bold 9650 and have cutouts for all buttons and ports to maintain full functionality of the device. The skin material itself is constructed of durable, silicone vinyl material that protects your device from scratches and adds nearly zero bulk (a full-fledged protective case can be used over top of the skin if needed). GelaSkins also offers a free, matching wallpaper for each skin design to complete the new look via your Bold 9650 display.

The Almond Branches in Bloom skin for the Bold 9650. This vibrant and detailed design by artist, Vincent van Gogh portrays a beautiful image of sprouting almond buds on a sky blue backround. See the following image.

The Rooted in Earth skin design for the Bold 9650 was created by Heather Haynes and portrays (in my eyes at least) the image of a lone tree in a harvested farm field with a hazy, Autumn sky backround.

And then there's the Bold 9650 Starry Night skin, also by artist Vincent van Gogh, that brings an image of a jagged rock formation on a celestial backdrop, reminiscent of late fall/early winter.

Last but not least, we have the Great Wave skin cover for the BlackBerry Bold 9650 by artist Katsushika Hokusai. Great Wave is a dazzling portrayal of a mighty Tsunami wave thrashing freely on a gray, stormy sky backdrop.

We've conveniently tagged these skin designs in the BlackBerry Expressions Store as "Bold 9650 Nature Skins". Click-through the tag link to compare these skins side-by-side.

Autumn has always been my favorite season with the mild weather and beautiful, changing colors. Now you can bring the natural and scenic looks of fall to your Bold 9650 with these unique skin designs by GelaSkins.

Wes

Incipio Feather Case for BlackBerry Curve 8520/8530

2011-09-23T03:02:00.001-04:00

The Incipio Feather case for the BlackBerry Curve 8520/8530 is a slim, sleek snap-on style case that is available in several vibrant colors. The Feather features a super-light, ultra-thin polycarbonate shell to keep weight and bulk to a minimum.

The Feather is a one-piece case design that snaps over your Curve 8520/8530 from the back side. Cutouts for the Curve's top and side buttons allow full access to the exterior functions. The front (face) of the Curve 8520/8530 is completely exposed to allow unobstructed use of the keyboard and display. The polycarbonate shell of the Feather measures less than 1mm thick.

The exterior of the Feather has a smooth, soft-touch coating to improve comfort and grip on your Curve 8500 Series. The silky finish resists lint and slides in and out of pockets easily. The Feather was designed primarily to bring style and comfort to your Curve in a low profile package. Hence, the case will provide adequate scratch protection but possesses minimal shock absorbing qualities.

Incipio's color options for the Feather provide many choices to change up the look of your Curve. The Feather is available in Magenta, Molina Red, Black, Blue, and Purple. Incipio also includes two screen protectors to keep the Curve 8500 Series display scratch-free.

The Incipio Feather for BlackBerry Curve 8520/8530 is ideal for users who want simple, stylish protection without the bulk. Note that the Feather for the Curve 8500 Series is also compatible with the Curve 9300 Series (9300/9330) since these devices feature the same dimensions and feature placement. Click-through the above link for more details on the Feather or to buy at the BlackBerry Expressions Store.

Wes

Hard to Find iFrogz Luxe in Solid Gunmetal for the Bold 9700 Series

2011-09-21T05:12:00.002-04:00

If you follow iFrogz and their super-cool BlackBerry cases, you know that the iFrogz Luxe for the Bold 9700/9780 in solid Gunmetal is no longer being manufactured. Guess what? We still have a few of these unusually popular iFrogz cases (one of the less colorful models) in stock at the BB Expressions Store.

Note that this is the solid color Gunmetal case (see pic above), not the Gunmetal/Black design that eventually replaced it. The solid color of the case offers a more subtle profile and is popular among users who want the innovative functionality of the iFrogz Luxe but don't want the flashy color combinations that the other Luxe cases sport.

The iFrogz Luxe case for the Bold 9700/9780 in Gunmetal is available at the BB Expressions Store. Click-through for more details on the iFrogz Luxe or to buy online.

Wes

Netflix Will Now Be Called Qwikster, Add Video Games, CEO Apologizes

2011-09-19T14:15:00.002-04:00

If you're a Netflix subscriber then you are probably aware of the recent price increase and separation of the DVD service and streaming service. Netflix CEO Reed Hastings has posted a public apology at the Netflix Blog for the way they handled the sudden changes. He also announced that the Netflix DVD service will now be called Qwikster and Netflix will add the long-awaited video game service as well. Customers will receive emails with the details of the latest changes to the Netflix service complete with the formal apology.

Netflix has been under scrutiny (and lost quite a few subscribers) because of the sudden rate hike that came without much warning to customers. The addition of video games for Wii, PS3, and Xbox will definitely be welcomed by the Netflix community and Netflix states that this service will be added in the form of a separate plan.

As for the Qwikster name change, Netflix states that the DVD and streaming service will be completely separate and customers will now see two charges to their credit cards for each service, even though the price (with recent rate hike) will remain the same. There will also be separate websites for the Qwikster and video game services (which is still called Netflix by the way) for access to your queues.

I have to say that the rate hike did come as a surprise to me, personally, but one has to admit that it is still a good deal overall. It will be interesting to see how the new video game service pans out and what pricing structure Netflix applies to it. What do you think? Should Netflix just leave well enough alone or do you think that the new plan structures and added video game service will succeed in keeping Netflix/Qwikster at the top of the pack and bring back the recent Netflix deserters?

Wes

iLuv BlackBerry Bold 9700/9780 Case - The Flexi Clear TPU Slip-On

2011-09-19T00:36:00.001-04:00

The iLuv Flexi-Clear case for the BlackBerry Bold 9700 and 9780 is now available. iLuv has made a name for itself with their colorful case designs for Apple products like the iPhone, so much so that BlackBerry Bold 9700 Series users (who may or may not have been iPhone deserters) wanted a taste of the action as well. So what makes the iLuv Flexi-Clear so special?

iLuv cases are known for their unique styling and simplistic design. The Flexi-Clear for the Bold 9700/9780 is a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) case. This is just a fancy word for a very lightweight, highly-durable, and very flexible cover that is also translucent for see-through protection. The Flexi-Clear sports two vibrant color shades that will add a truly unique look to your Bold 9700 Series.

Features of the Flexi-Clear that stand out are the slip-on design, the thin, low-bulk profile, and the included screen protector for the Bold 9700/9780 display. The TPU material is virtually indestructible and provides a durable "cushion" that absorbs impacts. Cutouts for all Bold 9700 Series buttons and ports are precisely-located to maintain usability. Camera, LED indicator, and speaker are unobstructed as well.

The real reason BlackBerry users love the iLuv Flexi-Clear is for the semi-transparent design that allows you to see your Bold underneath. The translucent design of the case tints your Bold 9700/9780 with a vibrant shade of Blue or Pink that subtly blends with your Bold's natural styling.

The case feels great in your hands; improving comfort and grip with the soft TPU material. The exterior of the case, although it's "grippy", still allows easy access to your Bold 9700/9780 from pockets and won't collect debris like lint. The screen protector is applied with a static adhesive (for gook-free installation) and does a good job of preventing glare on the 9700/9780 screen.

The iLuv Flexi-Clear TPU case for the BlackBerry Bold 9700/9780 is currently available in Blue and Pink colors at the BlackBerry Expressions Store. Click-through the above link for more details on the Flexi-Clear or to buy online.

Wes