Tech Right Now

Hulu Plus Coming To iPad, iPhone, PS3, Xbox Live And More

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:30:00 +0000

After weeks of speculation, a premium Hulu service has now become official. Full seasons of shows will become available for Hulu Plus subscribers which will set customers back $10 / month whereas the free service only provides limited number of episodes for TV series.

Also there will be a new portfolio of devices capable of receiving content from the on demand service. Iphone and iPad apps will be available which will allow you to stream shows over Wi-Fi and 3G. This covers mobile devices however many users want to be able to watch their favourite shows on the big screen. Both Sony and Microsoft have that covered with both companies gaming consoles gearing up to receive streams from Hulu. Ps3 users will be able to enjoy Hulu Plus as early as July however Xbox 360 users will have to wait till sometime in “early 2011”. To compensate 360 users, they will be receiving a 'custom experience' exclusive for Xbox Live Gold members which will include “controller-free navigation” thanks to Kinect.

Samsung connected TVs and Blu-Ray players will also get a taste off the Plus experience by utilising Samsung Apps platform. To get you invite to request a preview invitation just go here.

White iPhone 4 Delayed Due To Manufacturing Challenges

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 21:06:00 +0000

The iPhone 4 is officially now on sale with huge queues being reported worldwide and many analysts suggesting this could be a record breaking first day sales for Apple. However those hoping to get their hands on a white iPhone should prepare for disappointment as Apple says that the white model won't be available until sometime in July. The reason behind this is that the device has been “more challenging to manufacture than expected”.

Apple did not clarify what the actual problem was with the manufacturing process however the most likely culprit is that there is a issue with the colourant used. In previous years there had been discolouration issues with Apple's white MacBooks so a similar problem may be occurring here.

The good news is that the black model has not been affected by this particular issue but unfortunately they may be having problems of their own. Nevertheless sales of the iPhone seem extremely strong so if any shortages do occur then we can safely assume that Apple just can't make enough of them.

Toshiba Announces Dual Screen Portable PC/Tablet

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:14:00 +0000

Toshiba has raised the curtains on its latest ultra-mobile PC using a design similar to the one found on the now shelved Microsoft Courier.

The Libretto W100 sports a pair of 7” 1024x600 multi-touch displays with haptic feedback giving a more natural tactile feel. The unique laptop is powered by a Pentium U5400 processor clocked at 1.2Ghz, 62GB SSD and 2GB of ram. As far as connectivity goes, we will find Bluetooth accompanied by 802.11b/g/n.

For an ultra-mobile PC, it has a slightly bulky body, measuring in at 7.95” x 4.84” x 1.2.” However, it is relatively light at only 1.8lbs, which not much more that an iPad and fairly impressive given its specs.

One draw back though is the choice of operating system used. As good as it is, Windows 7 Home Premium does not have the best touch user interface in the industry. However, Toshiba saw fit to implement some custom software to help in this department. “Toshiba Bulletin Board” is a touch friendly, widget based desktop replacement which can be used instead of the standard Windows theme.

Having two screens is the major selling point for the W100. It can be used as a conventional laptop by using the second display as a keyboard, which would fit Windows 7 perfectly. However that wouldn't justify buying the W100 over a normal laptop. The value of buying the W100 will lie in the extra functionality the second screen could potentially provide, such as holding the device like a book. Unfortunately Windows 7 lacks the software to make proper use of the second screen.

With a starting price of $1099, the W100 seems a bit on the expensive side, which may explain why it will be available in August in limited quantities. In the future, we may see ourselves buying one of these if the price falls and software more suited to the hardware, such as Android or even Meego, is installed.

Source Technorati

MWC - Windows Phone 7 Series roundup

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:35:00 +0000

Microsoft has evidently been working their socks off with their new mobile OS. They have completely rebuilt Windows Mobile, getting rid of any indication that Windows Mobile ever existed. Therefore, it makes sense that Microsoft has decided to do a little re-branding by calling this new mobile platform “Windows Phone 7 Series”. So what is there to know? Head on past the break for the full break down.

First of all whole new UI has been built. Gone have the days when WinMo users were confronted with the familiar Start screen, instead replaced with a fully customizable “tiles” system which can be pretty much be whatever you want it to be: Short-cuts, contacts, widgets.

Obvious similarities are present to the Zune HD UI: clean, smooth transitions and excellent usability. We can also see that social networking played a major role when designing the platform as new social networking tools have been integrated, allowing real time access to you social website contacts.

For example, one of the tiles can be assigned to a contact on Facebook which will pull their status updates and update them in real time. Another point to note down is that full multi-touch will be offered with pinch to zoom in the browser and photo apps.

Microsoft will be providing the MarketPlace to purchase the latest apps and we are being assured that by the time the first 7 Series device hits the market in the holiday season, there will be a MarketPlace full to the brim with amazing apps waiting for us.

Microsoft has stated that there will not be any carrier or partner UI customization's and that there will be a single UI across all 7 Series devices regardless of their brand or carrier, meaning no HTC port of Sense UI nor will Samsung port TouchWiz to the platform.

Also to note is that Microsoft has put in place a minimum specification requirement for all 7 Series device's to adhere to which will include specific CPUs and speed, screen aspect ratio, resolution and amount of memory.

A popular addition to the platform is the inclusion of Zune and Xbox LIVE integration. You will more or less have an exact copy of the functions an actual Zune device has, which pretty much renders the Zune obsolete if you plan on a Windows Phone purchase.

Xbox LIVE integration will include access to LIVE games, avatars, and profiles. No games have yet to be announced, but Microsoft is saying that more details will be released at the MIX event next month.

Now for the bad news: Windows Mobile apps will not work on 7 Series. For Windows Mobile developers, this isn't pleasant to hear. For almost every consumer, this was exactly what we needed. We all knew that Microsoft had to basically create a new platform to survive and it meant dropping Windows Mobile. What this means is that now we can finally see innovation hitting 7 Series.

Also, Adobe has confirmed that Flash is not supported on 7 Series initially. However, Adobe also confirms it is working hard to make sure that it does get onto the platform in the near future.

Another pressing issue is the confusing nature of whether multi-tasking is supported or not. A definite answer has not been given but all indications seem to point to no. Joe Belfiore, head of the Windows Phone team, has commented that live tiles will be used to "bring value to the user, even when their apps aren't running.” which seems to indicate that true multitasking isn't supported.

Overall, Windows Phone 7 Series seems to be the platform that Microsoft should have made from the start. With a UI equipped with features to beat the competitors in terms of style and usability. We can only hope that Microsoft keeps on improving and innovating to finally make it a big player in the smartphone segment. Android, iPhone OS and Web OS just got some major competition on their hands and first impressions give the advantage to Microsoft.

MWC - Maemo plus Moblin Equals MeeGo

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:25:00 +0000

One of the biggest announcements so far at MWC has certainly been this one. Nokia is merging Maemo with Intels Moblin OS. This was something no one even saw coming. What this will create is a "software platform that will support multiple hardware architectures across the broadest range of device segments, including pocketable mobile computers, netbooks, tablets, mediaphones, connected TVs and in-vehicle infotainment systems" called Meego. Yes it seems like Nokia and Intel are trying to get this platform into everything they can possibly imagine which is not such a bad idea as both Maemo and Moblin have very good features when mixed together would make an unbelievably amazing platform. It seems like MeeGo will support both x86 and ARM architectures meaning we could find this OS in literally every device if Nokia and Intel play their cards right. We can also be rest assured that the new platform is fully open. Jump the break for the full press release.

Intel and Nokia Merge Software Platforms for Future Computing Devices MeeGo* enables an open ecosystem for rapid development of exciting new user experiences

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS:

• Global leaders Intel Corporation and Nokia merge Moblin and Maemo to create MeeGo*, a Linux-based software platform that will support multiple hardware architectures across the broadest range of device segments, including pocketable mobile computers, netbooks, tablets, mediaphones, connected TVs and in-vehicle infotainment systems.
• MeeGo offers the Qt application development environment, and builds on the Moblin core operating system and reference user experiences. Using Qt, developers can write once to create applications for a variety of devices and platforms, and market them through Nokia's Ovi Store and Intel AppUpSM Center.
• MeeGo will be hosted by the Linux Foundation and governed using the best practices of the open source development model. The first release of MeeGo is expected in the second quarter of 2010 with devices launching later in the year.
• Nokia and Intel expect MeeGo to be adopted widely by global device manufacturers, network operators, semiconductor companies, software vendors and developers.

ESPOO, FINLAND, and SANTA CLARA, CALIF., Feb. 15, 2010 – In a significant development in the convergence of communications and computing, Intel Corporation and Nokia are merging their popular Moblin and Maemo software platforms. This will create a unified Linux-based platform that will run on multiple hardware platforms across a wide range of computing devices, including pocketable mobile computers, netbooks, tablets, mediaphones, connected TVs and in-vehicle infotainment systems. Called MeeGo, the open software platform will accelerate industry innovation and time-to-market for a wealth of new Internet-based applications and services and exciting user experiences. MeeGo-based devices from Nokia and other manufacturers are expected to be launched later this year.

This announcement strengthens the Nokia and Intel relationship, and builds on the companies' broad strategic collaboration announced in June 2009. Intel and Nokia now invite participation in MeeGo from existing Maemo and Moblin global communities and across the communications and computing industries.

"Our vision for seamlessly communicating between computing devices from the home, auto, office or your pocket is taking a big step forward today with the introduction of MeeGo," said Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini. "This is a foundational step in our evolving relationship with Nokia. The merging of these two important assets into an open source platform is critical toward providing a terrific experience across a variety of devices and gaining cross- industry support."

"MeeGo will drive an even wider range of Internet computing and communication experiences for consumers, on new types of mobile devices," said Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, CEO, Nokia. "Through open innovation, MeeGo will create an ecosystem that is second to none, drawing in players from different industries. It will support a range of business models across the value chain, building on the experience and expertise of Nokia, Intel and all those who will join us. Simply put, MeeGo heralds a new era of mobile computing."

MeeGo blends the best of Maemo with the best of Moblin to create an open platform for multiple processor architectures. MeeGo builds on the capabilities of the Moblin core OS and its support for a wide range of device types and reference user experiences, combined with the momentum of Maemo in the mobile industry and the broadly adopted Qt application and UI framework for software developers.

MeeGo also unites the robust worldwide Maemo and Moblin applications ecosystems and open source communities. For developers, MeeGo extends the range of target device segments for their applications. Using Qt for application development means that they can write applications once and easily deploy them on MeeGo and across other platforms, for example, on Symbian.

The Ovi Store will be the channel to market for apps and content for all Nokia devices, including MeeGo and Symbian-based, with Forum Nokia providing developer support across all Nokia device platforms. The Intel AppUpSM Center will be the path to market for Intel-based MeeGo devices from other device manufacturers, with the Intel® AtomTM Developer Program providing support for applications targeting devices in a variety of categories.

The MeeGo software platform, running on high-performance devices, will deliver a range of Internet, computing and communication experiences, with visually rich graphics, multitasking and multimedia capabilities and the best application performance. Since MeeGo runs on multiple device types, people can keep their favorite applications when they change devices, so they are not locked into one kind of device or those from any individual manufacturer.

MeeGo Hosted by the Linux Foundation

The MeeGo software platform will be hosted by the Linux Foundation as a fully open source project, encouraging community participation in line with the best practices of the open source development model. Intel and Nokia invite the respective members of Maemo.org and Moblin.org to join the combined community at MeeGo.com, as well as encouraging wider participation from the communications, computing and related industries. Developers can begin writing applications for MeeGo in Qt immediately. The first release of MeeGo is targeted for the second quarter of this year.

Nokia is back in the game with Symbian^3

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:09:00 +0000

First of all we all knew Symbian^3 was coming. What we didn't know was how it would look like and how it would do it. Well today we just received some answers at MWC. A video preview is out and waiting and hell its definately is worth it. In fusing ideas from WebOS and Android, Symbian is finally looking like a modern day platform. Symbian now has everything we need, multiple desktops with customizable widgets, visual multi-tasking WebOS style, hardware acceleration making transitions look smooth and the basics which were missed out it Symbian 5th edition such as kinetic scrolling. Also multi-touch has found its way onto the platform with the addition off pinch to zoom. Now lets just hope Nokia has improved the browser as this is looking like a very promising platform now. Check the video after the break.

MWC - Sony Ericsson going miniture with the Xperia X10 Mini and X10 Mini pro

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 19:51:00 +0000

Sony Ericsson has just announced the double trouble X10 Minis at MWC. The X10 Mini will be coming to market rocking Android 1.6 but hopefully SE will see the light and have a 2.0/2.1 upgrade ready pronto. SE's custom user interface will be slapped ontop of Android to deal with the miniture screen size of 2.5 inches with QVGA resolution. Main features include a 600Mhz Qualcomm MSM7227 processor with the standard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth expected of from all smartphones. The X10 Mini pro is basically an identical device but with the addition of a full QWERTY landscape sliding keyboard. We can expect to see these devices shipping in Q2 if SE doesnt decide to delay them which we've become accustomed to with the original X10. Full press release and specs after the break.

Get Compact and Clever with Sony Ericsson Xperia™ X10 mini and Xperia™ X10 mini pro
 Sony Ericsson grows its family of Communication Entertainment phones with compact versions of Xperia™ X10 for the first half of 2010
 Xperia™ X10 mini and X10 mini pro define a new user experience - ultra-compact - whilst still offering best-in-class communication entertainment performance
 Smaller than a credit card, smart and unique with Sony Ericsson Timescape™ application and an intuitive 4 corner touch screen user interface
February 14, 2010 - Barcelona – Today sees the announcement of Xperia™ X10 mini and X10 mini pro, compact versions of Xperia™ X10, which will deliver powerful and application packed mobile phones into the industry. By introducing mobile phones that are both compact and clever, Sony Ericsson is challenging the norm and defining a brand new offering that combines high specification features with a version of Sony Ericsson's powerful UX platform specifically designed for smaller devices.

Xperia™ X10 mini and X10 mini pro with slide out QWERTY keyboard offer an open and intuitive communication entertainment experience and build on the human curvature design philosophy debuted by the Sony Ericsson Xperia™ X10. Combining the Android platform with signature applications and a customisable UX platform, communication truly becomes entertainment with these new mobile phones. To enhance the experience, pick and choose from a multitude of applications at Android Market™ and co-create a mobile phone experience that is entirely unique. Users can go one step further and customise the home screen's four corners and widgets to access the most needed applications for limitless possibilities.

The two sister mobile phones incorporate the signature application Sony Ericsson Timescape™ which brings all communication together in one place so users can see at a glance text messages, missed calls, and Facebook™ and Twitter updates, without having to open lots of different applications. The interactive music player also uses the "infinite button" to pull together all music content from the music store and YouTube™ – a smart way to search for new tracks from a favourite artist.

"There has been an enormous buzz around Xperia™ X10 so it is really exciting to be already unveiling compact versions of this powerful proposition." Said Rikko Sakaguchi, EVP and Chief Creation Officer, Sony Ericsson. "With the X10 mini and X10 mini pro we have pushed the boundaries of what is possible with smaller devices and are giving consumers exactly what they want; two high performance mobile phones with a fully customisable user experience platform and a stunning ultra-compact design."
Xperia™ X10 mini and X10 mini pro
Sony Ericsson Timescape™ - brings together all communication in one place
Four corner control – applications, calls, web, the consumer decides. Four customisable icons for ultimate control
5 megapixel camera and video - share creations via the web
Music player links to music stores and YouTube™ - access the world of music
Android platform - with Google™ services and Android Market™
QWERTY keyboard - slide and text for quick and easy messaging (Xperia™ X10 mini pro only)
X10 mini and X10 mini pro supports HSPA 900/2100 and EDGE 850/900/1800/1900, HSPA 850/1900/2100 and EDGE 850/900/1800/1900.

The X10 mini will be available in selected markets from Q2 in the colours Pearl White, Black, Pink, Lime, Red and Silver
The X10 mini pro will be available in selected markets from Q2 in the colours Black and Red.

Sony Ericsson is also introducing the Portable Stereo Speakers MS450, to deliver rich on-the-go sound and the Hi-Fi Headset MH810 with remote with superior audio and remote media and call handling.

Xperia™ X10 mini and X10 mini pro

Camera
5 megapixel camera
Auto focus
Geo tagging
Photo and video light
Sony Ericsson Album application
Video recording

Music
Bluetooth™ stereo (A2DP)
Music player
PlayNow™
TrackID™

Web
Bookmarks
Pan and zoom
WebKit web browser

Communication
Sony Ericsson Timescape™ with...
- Facebook™ status updates, friend's photo, inbox messages and friend requests
- tweets, replies and direct messages from people you follow on Twitter™
- incoming text and picture messages
- missed calls

Messaging
Email
Instant messaging
Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync®
Picture messaging (MMS)
Predictive text input
Text messaging (SMS)

Design
Auto rotate
Full slide out keyboard (X10 mini pro only)
Picture wallpaper
Touchscreen

Entertainment
Infinite button
Quadrapop game
Sony Ericsson FM radio
Video player
Video streaming

Organiser
Calendar
Flight mode
Phone book with dialer
Sony Ericsson Home with widget
Tasks

Location-based services
A-GPS
Google Maps™
Wisepilot™ turn-by-turn navigation* (free trial version)

Connectivity
3.5 mm audio jack
Bluetooth™ technology
Micro USB connector
NeoReader® barcode scanning app
Sony Ericsson Sync
USB mass storage support
USB support
Wi-Fi™
Google™ Services
Android Market™
Gmail™
Google Maps™ with Street View
Google Search Widget
Google Talk™
Google Voice Search™**** The Google Voice Search service is not available in all markets
YouTube™

Screen
16,777,216 colour TFT touchscreen
2.55 inches
240 x 320 pixels (QVGA)
Scratch-resistant

Accessories
In-Box:
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ X10 mini/ Xperia™ X10 mini pro with battery
Micro USB cable for charging, synchronisation and file transfer
Stereo portable handsfree
2GB microSD™ memory card
User documentation
Optional:
Portable Stereo Speakers MS450
Hi-Fi Headset with Remote MH810
Facts
Xperia™ X10 mini:
Size: 83 x 50 x 16 mm
Weight: 88 grams
Phone memory: Up to 128MB
Memory card support: SanDisk microSD™, up to 16 GB
Memory card included: 2GB
Operating system: Google™ Android 1.6
Processor: 600 MHz Qualcomm MSM7227
Talk time GSM/GPRS: Up to 4 hours
Standby time: GSM/GPRS: Up to 285hrs
Talk time UMTS: Up to 3.5 hours
Standby time: UMTS: Up to 360 hrs
Xperia™ X10 mini pro:
Size: 90 x 52 x 17 mm
Weight: 120 grams
Phone memory: Up to 128MB
Memory card support: SanDisk microSD™, up to 16 GB
Memory card included: 2GB
Operating system: Google™ Android 1.6
Processor: 600 MHz Qualcomm MSM7227
Talk time GSM/GPRS: Up to 4 hours
Standby time: GSM/GPRS: Up to 285hrs
Talk time UMTS: Up to 3.5 hours
Standby time: UMTS: Up to 360 hrs
Availability and versions
Networks

UMTS HSPA 900/2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900
UMTS HSPA 850/1900/2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900
Available in selected markets in Q2 2010

Colour
Xperia™ X10 mini:
Black
Pearl White
Lime
Pink
Red
Silver
Xperia™ X10 mini pro:
Black
Red

MWC - Samsung Wave with Bada OS

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 19:29:00 +0000

MWC has now started and to kick things off, Samsung have unleashed the Wave running on their brand spanking new Bada OS. Specs wise this device is up thier with the likes of the Nexus one, featuring a 1Ghz processor, 720p HD encoding and decoding and Samsungs own "super AMOLED" screen sized up at 3.3 inches with a resolution of 800 x 480. Unfortunately it seems that there will be no multi-touch supported on this device which is the only real downside to Samsungs latest. Full press release and specs after the break.

Samsung Delivers Brilliant New Smart Phone Experience
with Launch of Samsung Wave

· Full touch Super AMOLED offers the best ever viewing quality on a mobile
· Social Hub brings all your social networks together in one, unified solution
· TouchWiz 3.0 expands Smartphone usability to the next level

February 14th, 2010, Barcelona, Spain – Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leading mobile phone provider, today announced the launch of the Samsung Wave (Model: S8500). This is the first mobile handset to be released on Samsung's new, open mobile platform, Samsung bada, and the cornerstone of the company's commitment to provide a smartphone for every lifestyle.

The Samsung Wave offers a Super AMOLED 3.3" display that makes the screen truly come alive, a Social Hub to bring you closer to your contacts and connections, and TouchWiz 3.0 for an intuitive and hugely customizable user interface. The Wave's high-speed CPU ensures swift, smooth application experiences and multi-tasking, making the device an always-on mobile multimedia companion. The Samsung Wave has been built to offer users an unrivalled level of performance, customization and choice in how they connect with their world. The stunning full touch mobile will be available globally from April 2010.

"The Samsung Wave truly demonstrates our commitment to deliver rich, connected and innovative smartphone experiences to everyone," said JK Shin, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics. "Samsung Wave sees our platform vision become a reality. For the first time, developers have the freedom to create applications across multiple platforms, for consumption on a huge range of devices. In the Wave, our developer partners can see the ocean of opportunity that is offered by the bada mobile platform and our device technology," he said.

Super AMOLED – Seeing is believing
With the Samsung Wave, seeing really is believing as it features the world's first Super AMOLED display; delivering an unrivalled screen experience on a smartphone. The Super AMOLED offers much brighter, clearer, and less reflective AMOLED OnCell display, featuring a high resolution WVGA (800x480 pixels) screen with mDNIe (mobile Digital Natural Image engine) technology. DNIe technology is proven display technology which incorporated to Samsung's LCD TV and LED TV lineups. With a free viewing angle and super fast response, the Samsung Wave display provides superb image quality for viewing both videos and photos.

Social Hub – my communities at my hand

Social Hub has been designed from the ground up to seamlessly integrate all major portal's email, IM and SNS services directly into the Samsung Wave. With its TouchWiz 3.0 UI, it provides users easy-flow integrated experience of messaging, managing contacts and viewing calendar events. Social Hub is powered by the amazing push technology to deliver email messages, calendar events and SNS updates in real-time.

TouchWiz 3.0 UI – new and improved

The Samsung Wave provides superior levels of choice to all users via its fully customizable menus and home-page. For those who demand access to their social networking sites at all times, the device allows users to change the layout of the home-page to allow instant access to Twitter, Facebook and a host of other social networking services. For those who love music, the device home-page can be turned into an intuitive media player; while for those who take and share a lot of photos, the home page can be customized to feature favourite images. Users will also benefit from Quick Panel, a way of prioritizing and aggregating applications into one screen for instant access.

With its eye-catchingly brilliant screen, Samsung's latest TouchWiz 3.0 user interface gives a tactile, intuitive user experience, and includes iconic new features such as motion UI, Smart Unlock and customizable widget screen.

Speed, performance and beauty

The Samsung Wave benefits from a superb 1GHz processor which offers users the best graphic performance available today. Its speed makes the touch screen user interface incredibly responsive and intuitive and, more importantly, means that the 3D and memory-intensive graphic and video performance is unsurpassed.

The Samsung Wave is also one of the most attractive devices with seamless, streamlined body that has no parting or harsh lines. A beautiful and strong tempered glass display perfectly complements and enhances the vividness of the Super AMOLED display. Furthermore, with anti-smudge technology, those greasy thumb prints are a thing of the past.

Multimedia features and connectivity

Multi-codec support for DivX Xvid, MP4 and WMV, and support for virtual 5.1 surround sound delivery transforms the device into a personal entertainment system and HD video (720p) decoding and recording capabilities make the Samsung Wave an outstanding device for capturing, sharing and viewing video.

For the first time in the world, Samsung Wave is incorporated Bluetooth® 3.0 and WiFi 802.11n standard.

Samsung Apps: unlimited expandability

Samsung's bada platform allows mobile users to simply and easily download an abundance of applications from Samsung Apps, an integrated application store accessible from the device and online. Featuring a wealth of games, navigation, social networking, e-book, health and lifestyle applications, Samsung Apps gives users instant access to a huge choice of mobile experiences.

Samsung established its mobile application ecosystem through the launch of Samsung Mobile Innovator in 2008 and the Samsung Application Seller Site followed by Samsung Application Store as another key element of this offering. Already launched in the UK, France, Italy, Singapore, Germany, Brazil and China, this will be expanded to more than 50 countries all over the world in 2010.

Samsung is exhibiting at Mobile World Congress 2010, at Hall 8, Stand 8b 169.
For more information, please visit http://samsungmwc2010.com
Follow us to get all our news on twitter at www.twitter.com/SamsungMWC

Locus OS concept outed on video

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 22:51:00 +0000

Are you ready to see the future of computing? Well maybe you might want to check Locus OS. Its a concept OS by Barton Smith who has envisioned a future where usability and functionality are one in the same. Just to see what i mean, watch the video down below.

Locus OS Interface from Barton Smith on Vimeo.

Trojans in Mozilla Firefox add ons

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 22:35:00 +0000

Mozilla has recently admitted that two experimental add ons for its Firefox browser was infected with Trojans affecting Windows users. It is estimated that around 5000 users may be affected by the Trojans which were found in Version 4.0 of Sothink Web Video Downloader and all versions of Master Filer. The add ons in question have now been taken offline. Mozilla has advised infected users to eradicate the Trojans with anti-virus software as uninstalling the add ons will not remove the problem. Mac and Linux users have not been affected.

Source Mozilla blog

ARM processors to take 90% of the PC market

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 19:14:00 +0000

ARM CEO, Warren East, is aiming very high it seem for his range of processor technology. He is predicting that 90% of netbooks, which will be the majority of the PC market according to him, will be powered by ARM processors. He may be right about this aswell with the Tegra2 platform looking very promising aswell as its competitor OMAP4 from TI. With Intel and AMD just not able to compete in power efficiency at the moment, it certainly looks like ARM has the advantage as now they have become very able platforms with the ability to playback HD video smoothly. The only disadvantage ARM is facing is the lack of support for Windows. Many users still want to have a Windows user experience as that is what they have become used to and expect on PC's or netbooks. However Microsoft seems to be very reluctant to offer support for the ARM platform which is leaving the gate wide open for Linux based OS's but will users adapt to Linux is another question. Linux has the opportunity to have a head start. Lets hope they make the most of it.

Source SlashGear

OMAP4 teased just before MWC

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:42:00 +0000

The guys over at SlashGear managed to get some hands on time with Texas Instruments latest and greatest processor line due to compete against Snapdragon and Tegra2 in the near future. As we already know, OMAP3 processors are already pretty beastly driving devices like the Motorola Droid. However OMAP4 chipsets can do more than drive one measely smartphone. They have the power to drive no less than three independant displays, one being a pico projector, with each having the ability to be showing different content at the same time. OMAP4 chipsets come loaded with an dual core A9 arm core at its heart with TI specific customizations. Other important things to take note about this chipset is its ability to play and encode 1080p HD video at 30fps aswell as output it via HDMI to a TV while using the two other displays to view other content at the same time. This shows the pure processor power available. So how will this compare to Nvidia's offering you may be wondering. Well TI claim that OMAP4 has “a better video engine than [NVIDIA] do” aswell as more more bandwidth resulting in better multi-tasking capabilities. Most importantly OMAP4 is designed to be a smartphone platform which Tegra2 has still yet expand to. The real showdown will start at MWC.

Source SlashGear

50 Reasons Why Android Is Brilliant at Gaming

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:10:00 +0000

Many Android users worldwide have had to watch in jealousy as their iPhone friends flaunted their gaming prowess like they were better than us. The day may finally have come when Android users can stand up and finally say they can game with the best of them as well.

Public opinion may have considered Android phones inferior in the quality and graphics enjoyed by the iPhone users or even WebOS users, but you would be wrong. The video below shows off 50 brilliant games, some which are graphically very impressive, running on a Motorola Droid with the advantage of physical buttons.

Maybe this will inspire more developers to start pumping out even better games for the platform. With Google also having a presence at the Game Developers Conference 2010 (GDC), things can only keep on getting better for Android. Video after the break.

Apple roundup, iPad is finally here

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:40:00 +0000

So its been a hectic few hours. Apple has finally unleashed its iPad tablet. Heres the things you need to know. First of all its has 9.7 inch capacitive screen with full multi-touch capabilities. Its resolution is 1024 x 768 meaning that everything just looks crisp and clear. Swiping, gesturing, the whole lot. Its powered by a custom Apple A4 processor running at 1GHz which should last for around 10 hours of full use or a month idle. Every iPad will be Wi-Fi n enabled with Bluetooth connectivity however there will also be three models which will utilize 3G. Three storage capacities will be available. 16GB, 32GB and 63GB. Other features include accelerometer, compass and syncing via USB to a Mac or PC.
On the software side, it seems to be running a modified version of the iPhone OS with full compatibility with all current iPhone apps which are upscaled for the higher resolution screen of the iPad. There will also be some exclusive iPad apps which will take advantage of the extra horses running around inside such as new games courtesy of Gamesloft and EA. iWorks will also be available which will address the productivity side of the device.
Another major software feature is the iBook application. Apple will be launching its very own eBook store which means it is going to be competing directly with Amazon and its Kindle. The iBook app will allow users to directly purchase books from the iPad. The cool features of the app is the ability to change font of the writing making it easier to read. Coupled with smooth transition effects, this easily trumps the kindle. However how battery life compares is another matter.
One place where the iPad excels is in the web browser. It is running a customized version of Mobile Safari which has been very well adapted for this screen. Scrolling is very smooth as well as page rendering which is top notch. One thing missing is Flash. It seems again that Apple has deprived its users of Flash content on the web.
The major noticeable feature that is not included in this device is the ability to multi-task. With other devices such as the HP Slate able to do full multi-tasking with Windows 7, its still boggles our minds why Apple has still left this out of both the iPhone and now the iPad. Maybe if we wish enough, an update may change this.Also there are no cameras meaning that there will be no video conferencing from this device.
Lastly the launch date of the device is 60 days away for the Wi-FI only models and 90 days away for the Wi-Fi with 3G models. With pricing very affordable at the lower range of the lineup, just starting at $499 for the 16GB model, i can see this becoming a very popular mainstream device. Full pricing details in the images after the break. A full Apple iPad review to come soon. Keep posted for more details.

Images Engadget

OFFICIAL Availabitly and pricing announced of the iPad

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:32:00 +0000

The Apple iPad will be shipping in 60 days. There will be six different models. Three with 3G and Wi-Fi and three with just Wi-Fi. The base model will be starting at $499 with 16GB of storage. The highest end model will cost $829 which will have 64GB of memory with 3G. There will also be some cool accesories such a dock which has a full QWERTY keyboard as its base making a hybrid desktop like machine. Similar to the hybrid laptop from Lenovo at CES.

OFFCIAL iPad data plan pricing revealed

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:19:00 +0000

Specific iPad models will come with 3G on ATT. I know this is not the carrier you were hoping for but the pricing looks pretty good. For $14.99 you get 250mb of data, for $29.99 you get unlimited data. Also you get free use of ATT wireless hotspots. The best thing about this is that there is no contract. Can cancel anytime you want.

OFFICIAL iPad has its own iBook store and iWorks

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:10:00 +0000

Apple is directly competing with Amazon by launching its own ebook store for the iPad which will allow iPad users to directly download ebooks to their iPad for viewing. The iBook app will allow users to change the font of the writing which is usefull but with incredibly smooth page transitions, will out do its e-ink competitors. Aswell as this, Apple is launching iWork for the iPad which will allow access to a full office suite to pretty much make anything from spreadsheets to presentations. Very throughly done with a excellent gui for easy navigation with lots of options to choose from. This is turning out to be a device to fully replace the Mac.

OFFICIAL Apple iPad specs, Apple A4 proccesor powered tablet

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 18:38:00 +0000

The iPad is a 0.5 inch thick tablet only weighing 1.5 pounds. A 9.7 inch full capacitive display with full multi-touch support. Maybe the most impressive thing is that Apple is pushing its own silicon by using its own 1GHz A4 processor. Also the expected specs like Bluetooth, WiFI n, accelerometer, compass,. The big point is that Apple is claiming 10 hours battery life which is pretty impressive as the iPad will be compatible with all apps in the store right now. Even games as the iPad is able to scale up the image to full screen. It looks pretty sweet.

Source Engadget

OFFICIAL iPad just like a supersized iPhone

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 18:27:00 +0000

Can do everything the iPhone can but better. With an amazing QWERTY keyboard, browsing the web or typing an email is flawless. Unfortunately there is no Flash support but one can still hope. Extremely smooth transitions. iTunes interface looks immaculate. Youtube HD looks pretty amazing aswell. Apple seems to have covered all the beses

Source Image GDGT

OFFICIAL Apple annouce iPad

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 18:12:00 +0000

Apple have finally officially announced their eagerly awaited tablet called iPad. Jus announced at the Apple event in San Francisco. Stay tuned for more details

Source Engadget

Android 2.0 update for HTC Hero delayed

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 22:36:00 +0000

Earlier in the year HTC confirmed that a Android 2.0 update was in the works for a Febuary roll out. However leaked document from a carrier in Ireland has it that it's been delayed till March. This obviously is bad news for all the Hero users out there. The delay is due to developing Sence UI to be compatable with the latest version of Android. With the 2.0 delayed, this must also mean that the 2.1 update has also been pushed back. With all the fragmentation going on with Android, its a wonder anyone can develop anything to work with the platform. There had been rumours that the 2.0 update would be skipped and HTC would directly move on to 2.1 but according to out latest data, this doesnt seem to be the case. For now, it looks liked we're stuck with 1.6.

Source leakdroid

Steve Ballmer actually signs...yes signs a students Macbook

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 21:57:00 +0000

Yes the very same man who pretended to stamp on his employee's iPhone actually signed a students Macbook while on a visit to Trevecca Nazarene University. Video proof below to prove it. Thats not something you everyday now is it.

HTC Diamond3 codenamed the Obsession?

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:50:00 +0000

It seems that the is a Diamond3 on the cards soon. Also known as the HTC Obsession, the spec list looks very attractive with a Qualcomm Snapdrogon processor clocked at 1GHz running the show with a 3.7 inch capacitive AMOLED screen, 5 megapixel camera capable of HD video recording with LED flash, spacious 512MB of RAM and ROM and 4GB of internal storage. In terms of connectivity, we'll have HSDPA and WI-FI. Reports suggest that this will be a multi-touch capable phone. Lets just hope it ships with Windows Mobile 7.

Source wmpoweruser

Firefox 3.6 now live

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:27:00 +0000

Mozilla has given us a much needed update to its Firefox web browser. Lately Firefox has been gaining weight which seem to be slowing the browser down however it seems Mozilla has put Firefox on a diet as speed has been improved by 20% which is a much needed boost. Also html 5 support has been added for developers. Mozilla seems to be going in the right direction. Hopefully by the time we get to Firefox 4, It will be super fast like Chrome and Opera competitors.

Source V3

Google's Nexus one unboxed by cool ninjas

noreply@blogger.com (Kish) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:49:00 +0000

An epic unboxing of the Nexus One. A Google sponsored video has popped up with little animated ninjas slashing their way to a shiny new superphone, the Nexus One. Follow on after the break to see the craziest mini film ever.

Source Youtube
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