Gadgetell

Thanksgiving 2009 Mashup: The games (and game products) we’re most thankful for

NEWS — 2009-11-26T16:31:00+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - As a special, tasty treat for this holiday, here’s a look at the games and game products Gamertell (and Appletell and Gadgetell) writers and editors are most thankful for…
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Gadgetell Roundup: The tech we are thankful for

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-26T16:00:53+00:00

Section: Gadgets / Other

It is hard to argue that there are more important things in life to be thankful for, such as friends, family and your health. But lets face it, despite having those we are still geeks and for better or worse that means we are thankful in our own way for the tech we see and get to use each and every day.

With that here is a little roundup of the tech that we Gadgetell writers have become thankful for. And when you are done reading and/or poking fun at our unsavory love of tech and gadgets feel free to leave a comment letting us know what tech you are thankful for.

First up is our very own associate editor JG Mason:

I am thankful for developers. My iPhone would be a quasi-useless brick without the ability to play cool games, geocache, navigate on sea and land, be my go to calculator, etc.

I am thankful for the convenience of every stupid whim I get, there is usually an app, as trendy as it sounds, for that. Thanks for making our tech so darn compelling.

Moving on, we have Sue Walsh, who seems to have taken a slightly more professional approach:

I am thankful for my Blackberry Tour which keeps me connected and for my computer which allows me to make a living!

Also joining us is the newest member of our team, Andrew Kameka:

I’m thankful for smartphones, specifically my T-Mobile G1. It doesn’t take pictures as well as my Canon or play music as well as my iPod, but it’s an on-the-go replacement for both. Combined with the ability to communicate, connect to the web, and take advantage of thousands of apps, smartphones have made my life so much simpler. I know it sounds cheesy, but the world’s a touch away thanks to this handy device.

Next up, we have Shawn Ingram, who seems to be sharing in the same line of though as I am with his love of netbooks:

Believe it or not, I’m thankful for for netbooks. I rarely leave my dorm without my Eee PC 901. I love the fact that it can do almost all the things I need to do (notes, email, Internet browsing), and how easy it is to change the OS. Also, the small size which makes it so nobody else asks to borrow it for more than five minutes.

Next up is long time Gadgetell contributor, Natesh Sood, who is also giving thanks to a cell phone:

My LG enV 3 cell phone. It is quite an upgrade over my previous phone, which was your basic flip phone. The external keypad is very easy to text T9 style on, and it opens up to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard with a larger screen for fast texting. The battery life is decent, and it takes 3.0 MP pictures, which is definitely tops among competitor phones.

And finally, we have myself. Like I mentioned, Shawn and I seem to have been thinking alike. My item, well items are my Eee PC 1000H and my Sprint branded MiFi. And although I am thankful for, at the same time it should be described as a love hate relationship. I love my Eee PC because I can work from anywhere, and I often do because I get tired of staring at the same four walls in my home office. But at the same time that means my netbook is generally never more than a few feet away, which often leads to me working when I should be relaxing. And as far as the MiFi is concerned, I think that goes without saying, but what can a geek really be more thankful for—connectivity. This device gives me a personal hotspot for up to five other devices where ever I may be.

And with that, the Gadgetell team is going to be taking it a little easy today and spending some time with the other items (family) they are thankful for. Me, I am heading out for a nice long run in an attempt at pre-burning some of those extra calories I plan on taking in later this afternoon.

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Happy Thanksgiving 2009 from Gadgetell

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-26T14:00:55+00:00

Section: Gadgets / Other

We here at Gadgetell just wanted to take a moment and wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving. And of course what that also means is that our coverage will be a little lighter than usual because we are going to be spending some quality time with family and stuffing our faces.

Happy Thanksgiving, and we look forward to rejoining with all of you tomorrow.

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday 2009: $30 netbook from Verizon

Shawn Ingram — 2009-11-26T01:13:01+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Computers, Mobile Computers, Netbooks, Wireless

With all the Black Friday deals this year, a cell phone carrier would probably be the last place on your list of places to visit. Verizon realizes that, and is offering its Back Friday deals from Friday to Monday. Not a bad idea for those who are busy running to other retailers, and also those who need a bit more time to decide on buying anything with a two-year contract.

Included in Verizon’s Black Friday deals is a price drop for the Gateway LT netbook. The netbook usually runs $100 with a two-year contract but will cost only $30 for the weekend. Also included in the deals are $10 smartphones, including both the HTC OZone and BlackBerry Pearl. Not the newest smartphones, but for $10, not a bad option. Not only will one be $10, but a second, identical smartphone, will be free, though will likely require a second contract. Other deals include $30 buy-on-get-one-free feature phones like the Nokia Twist and LG Versa in addition to a $50 mail-in rebate fr the MiFi, knocking it down to $50.

Overall, the deals from Verizon aren’t too bad. They definitely knock the price down for some decent devices. A $30 netbook isn’t bad at all if you plan on getting one with a two-year contract. $50 for a MiFi, even after a mail-in rebate, is a decent deal as well, and probably the most useful out of the bunch for many people. With those exceptions, chances are you can most of the deals any other time of the year, though they might not have the buy-one-get-one-free deals, and they might come from other retailers, which can be an issue for some people.

Read [Electronista]

Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Best Buy to offer $197 laptop on Black Friday

Sue Walsh — 2009-11-26T00:01:53+00:00

Section: Computers, Laptops

Best Buy has announced it will offer a $197 laptop as one of its Black Friday deals. The laptop, an HP G60-507DX, usually retails for $549.99. It features an Intel Celeron 900 processor, 2GB memory, 15-inch screen, a 160GB hard drive and runs Windows 7. It is already being featured in Best Buy’s preview ads and in television commercials. In addition to this new deal, Best Buy said it plans to offer what it dubs “the most competitive Windows 7 netbook deal ever” and special Limited Edition Dell netbooks designed by leading artists from around the world. They will be individually numbered by each artist. Other Best Buy Black Friday deals include the Palm Pre for $79, the Sprint MiFi for free, and 5 Android smartphones for $99 each.

If you’re raring to get one of the $197 laptops, you’d better get their super early! Only 5 will be available at each store and there is a strict limit of one per customer.

Read [Best Buy]

Full Story » | Written by Sue Walsh for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Get 1Password Pro touch free for your iDevice until December 1st

NEWS — 2009-11-25T23:52:31+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - In celebration of Thanksgiving (and likely Black Friday as well), Agile Web Solutions is offering their iPhone app 1Password Pro touch completely free of charge.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

AT&T gives up the details on their “Black Friday through Cyber Monday” sales

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-25T23:31:51+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Not to be left out, it looks like AT&T has plans not only for a Black Friday sale, but a weekend full of sales that was described as “Black Friday through Cyber Monday.” According to the announcement the sales are expected to begin as of 12:01 am EST on Friday November 27 and run through the weekend. Here is what you can expect in terms of the deals;

Friday: Savings Begin.
Incredible deals on some of the most popular touch screen devices go live.

Saturday: 24-Hour Blackberry Sale.
Free Pearl 8110 or Curve 8310; $49 Curve 8320; or $99 Curve 8900. Two-year agreement with a minimum $69.99 plan required.

Sunday: Free Quick Messaging Device Sale.
*Choose from the Solstice, Neon, Magnet, Karma or Propel. Two-year agreement and unlimited messaging or data service required.

Cyber Monday: 1 Cent Sale.
*Purchase for only one penny the Nokia e71x; Sony Cybershot; Curve 8900; Pantech Reveal; or, Samsung Jack. Device offers rotate every three hours. Two-year service agreement required.

Read [AT&T]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

New York Times application now available for select BlackBerry handsets

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-25T22:59:15+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile, Gadgets / Other

The New York Times seems to have been busy with mobile news today, first we saw the $100 off offer on a Samsung Go netbook and now they have unveiled a free mobile app for select BlackBerry handsets.

The newly released app will allow users to browse the New York Times online or cache the content for offline use, which sounds nice for those who may be traveling. The catch here is that the app is only available for a select few BlackBerry handsets including the Storm (original and 2), the Tour and Curve 8900.

Those interested can download the app by pointing their mobile browser to http://nytimes.com/bbapp.

Read [NYT] Via [CrackBerry]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday 2009: More deals on Apple hardware

NEWS — 2009-11-25T22:31:20+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - If Apple’s rumored Black Friday sale isn’t quite good enough for you, know this; there are other options. Best Buy and MacMall’s even beat Apple’s.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Rumor: MiFi coming to Bell on November 30 for $99.95 on contract

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-25T21:34:19+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Broadband Cards, Mobile, Computers, Wireless

Possibly my favorite gadget purchase of the year is the MiFi. And it looks like those in Canada will soon be able to get one of their own by way of Bell. I should point out that this is still in the rumor stage, which means we are still awaiting an official announcement.

However, assuming for a minute that the rumor is indeed true, then the Bell MiFi 2372 will be available beginning on November 30. And price wise it will set any would be purchasers back $249.95 or $99.95 with a three-year agreement.

That said, this MiFi has some similarities to the version found here in the US with Sprint and Verizon in that it will allow up to 5 users to connect to the Wi-Fi hotspot that it creates. But there is one nice difference in this model, it comes with a memory card slot that can support cards up to 16GB in size. Portable Wi-Fi is good, but portable Wi-Fi with built-in storage is even nicer.

Via [BGR]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

DSi LL had a better debut in Japan than the PSPgo

NEWS — 2009-11-25T18:00:32+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - 103,524 DSi LLs were sold in its first two days on the market in Japan. In comparison, only 28,725 PSPgos were sold the day it debuted in Japan.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Get paid $100 to get a BlackBerry or Sidekick mobile phone from Walmart

JG Mason — 2009-11-25T16:12:26+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Quickly becoming the place to buy cellphones on the cheap, Walmart is bringing its low-cost ways to the weary cell phone buyer. One has to wonder about some of the deals on their site offering up to $100 to take home some very decent phones. Have they gone too far?

$100 in your pocket #1: Sidekick Slider from T-Mobile

Walmart will send you a check for $100 after you agree to a two year contract with T-Mobile on their LetsTalk site. Is the Sidekick that bad a phone? Or is it the recent trouble Microsoft ran into with Sidekick owner information?

The phone was launched back in 2007, and only received 3 out of five stars for most reviews. The keyboard isn’t fantastic and it is a bit chunky by today’s standards. It is probably a safe bet that the incident that involved user data being lost is not likely to happen again.

$100 in your pocket #2: BlackBerry Curve 8330 (pink) from Verizon

This BlackBerry, first sold back in 2008 might be an older model, but it is one of the best. Featuring GPS, 2.0 mp camera and of course, the great BlackBerry messaging service. Getting paid to bring this one home is icing on the cake.

While there are other phones that offer you a bounty to order them, there are many that are free as well. Phones like the original BlackBerry Bold, considered to be the best BlackBerry ever by many, Samsung Instinct and lots more. If you are looking for a new mobile phone this holiday season, check out Walmart’s LetsTalk site.

Product Page: [Walmart]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Get three free MP3 downloads from Amazon MP3; offer valid until November 30

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-25T15:36:27+00:00

Section: Audio, Web, Downloads

Everyone loves to get something for free, and for a limited time you can do just that. This deal will score you three free MP3 downloads from Amazon MP3 and is available until the end of November.

Thankfully this offer is also easy to take advantage of, all you need to do is visit Amazon (link below) and follow the three easy steps. Actually the hardest part here is deciding which three tracks you want to download.

Read [Amazon] Via [Twitter @amazonmp3]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday 2009: Old Navy Gobblepalooza goes Rock Band crazy

NEWS — 2009-11-25T15:30:18+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - Old Navy is going Rock Band crazy during Black Friday 2009. Rock Band games will be set up in the store to play. If you buy $20 worth of merchandise, you get Lego Rock Band for the PS3, Xbox 360 or Wii free.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Get $100 off a Samsung Go netbook with NY Times subscription

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-25T14:49:46+00:00

Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Netbooks, Gadgets / Other

The New York Times has recently begun offering a $100 off on the purchase of a new Samsung Go netbook. Of course, the catch here is that you need to become a NYT subscriber in order to get that $100 savings.

Basically, the offer is simple—become a Times Reader 2.0 subscriber and get $100 off on a Samsung Go netbook.
The Times Reader 2.0 subscription will set you back $179.40 for a one-year subscription and then you will get your “Times Reader Coupon” which will entitle you to purchase the Samsung Go by way of J&R for $279.99.

In terms of the netbook, feature wise it has a 10.1-inch display, 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270 processor, 1GB of RAM, a 160GB hard drive and is running Windows XP Home.

All things considered, this is not that bad of a deal, assuming you were already planning on becoming a Times Reader 2.0 subscriber. That said, I would not subscribe just to save the $100 on the netbook. Of course, if this was on a more portable, or more reading focused device such as an ebook reader I may be more enticed.

Read [Times Reader] Via [GottaBeMobile]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Walmart cuts Nintendo DS Lite price by $31

JG Mason — 2009-11-25T13:35:26+00:00

Section: Gaming, Console, Portable

Walmart is showing off their Black Friday deals and chief among them is a major price slash for the Nintendo DS Lite portable game system. The event this Friday takes the price from $129 down to just $98. The sale looks to cover all colors and is for just the console, no bundle here.

Walmart is helping us out by showing us some of Friday’s big savers based on your local store. After entering in your zip code on their website, shoppers are directed to their local advertisement and a map of the store, so you can plan your sprint, weave and spin moves to get you into the sale item line. Remember, this year most Walmarts are staying open to alleviate any lines at the door, the lines will be at product displays, inside.

Read: [Walmart]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Appletell reviews Navigon Traffic Live for iPhone

NEWS — 2009-11-25T13:00:01+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - Navigon’s newest feature for their MobileNavigator North America for iPhone is another first for navigations navigation apps on the App Store: live traffic data.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Amazon announces firmware update for Kindle 2

Sue Walsh — 2009-11-25T02:04:42+00:00

Section: Gadgets / Other, ebooks

Amazon has announced a firmware update is on the way for its popular Kindle 2 e-reader. The update will give the 6-inch e-reader native PDF support and also claims to increase battery life by a whopping 85%, meaning the device will last up to 7 days between charges (even with the wireless service turned on) rather than 4.

“Kindle, already the #1 bestselling, most wished for, and most gifted product on all of Amazon.com, is now even better—with 85 percent more battery life and a built-in PDF reader,” said Ian Freed, Vice President, Amazon Kindle. “These two significant enhancements are available now.”

The company says the update is the product of 6 months of testing and development and will offer the native PDF support of the update to owners of the original Kindle as well. It will be delivered wirelessly, although Amazon has yet to say when.

Kindle has been wildly popular since its release 2 years ago. It’s appearance on the Oprah Winfrey show in October 2008, along with her pronouncement that it was her favorite gadget, led to the device selling out just as the holidays hit. A minor controversy followed when Amazon discontinued it and releases the Kindle 2 in February of this year. It has remained popular but now faces competition from Sony, Barnes and Noble, and other manufacturers, and has versions of its software for the iPhone/iPod Touch, PC, and soon for the BlackBerry.

Read [Amazon]

Full Story » | Written by Sue Walsh for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

TGI Black Friday app hits the App Store

NEWS — 2009-11-25T01:51:45+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - Looking for Black Friday deals? Conviniently, there’s a free iPhone and iPod touch application available in the App Store to help you out.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

AT&T introduces the HP iPAQ Glisten

Shawn Ingram — 2009-11-25T00:41:54+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

It has been a long time since HP released an interesting iPAQ device. Now, with the release of Windows Mobile 6.5, it looks like the iPAQ is back once again with the Glisten. The HP iPAQ Glisten is a smartphone heading to AT&T targeted at business users over everyone else.

The iPAQ Glisten looks to be a good alternative to those who like the BlackBerry-esque form factor, but either require or prefer Windows Mobile 6.5. It has a 2.5” AMOLED touchscreen, along with a QWERTY keyboard and five-way directional pad. In terms of specs it holds 256 SDRAM/512 MB Flash memory, GPS, 3.1 MP camera, 3G and Wi-Fi (complete with a dedicated on/off switch, which could prove very handy). It runs stock Windows Mobile 6.5, along with Flash support in the browser, and built in apps for Facebook and HP’s Snapfish.

The iPAQ Glisten may not be the most exciting Windows Mobile 6.5 phone compared to others recent releases, but it does seem like a decent choice. The combination of a candybar smartphone with a QWERTY keyboard, and a touchscreen makes it fairly interesting, and could put it above popular BlackBerries. There is also a great brand in iPAQ, with it being one of the better PDAs back when those were still around. The only thing holding it back is the $180 price tag after the $50 mail-in rebate. Unless users really need Windows Mobile or a physical keyboard, there’s no reason to pick this up over the 16GB iPhone 3GS. Unless, of course, you hate Apple’s policies for the iPhone and can’t switch the Verizon for a Droid.

Read [AT&T] Read [HP]

Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday DSi bundles with pre-installed games

NEWS — 2009-11-25T00:26:33+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - Black Friday offers more great deals with two different DSi bundle packs that come with differnt built in games depending on the color.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Datel suing Microsoft over lockout of unauthorized memory cards

NEWS — 2009-11-24T23:09:18+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - Datel isn’t taking getting locked out of making Xbox 360 memory cards lying down…
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Verizon announces the Windows Mobile based Samsung Omnia II, available as of December 2

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-24T18:59:01+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Plenty of people nowadays are looking to an iPhone, BlackBerry or something sporting Android for their smartphone needs, but that should not rule Windows Mobile based handsets out.

That said, Verizon Wireless and Samsung have recently announced the upcoming availability of the Omnia II. And in a nice twist on numbers, the Omnia II will be available as of December 2 for $200. Well, more specifically it will set you back $199.99, but that price does come AFTER a $100 mail-in-rebate and along with a two-year commitment.

Feature wise, the Samsung Omnia II is running Windows Mobile 6.5 with Opera 9.5 for browsing and has a 3.7-inch “ultra-briliant” touchscreen display, a virtual QWERTY keyboard and a 5.0-megapixel camera with flash, auto-focus and video recording. Additionally, the Omnia II also offers Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, EV-DO Rev. A, Bluetooth, 8GB of internal storage and has a microSD card slot for additional storage.

Read [Verizon Wireless]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

LG X120 netbook coming to the US by way of AT&T and Radio Shack

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-24T17:37:53+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Broadband Cards, Mobile, Computers, Mobile Computers, Netbooks, Wireless

I first saw the LG X120 netbook back in January of this year during CES, and although it looked to be a decent offering design wise there were a few points that kept me from really being interested. First, it was nothing out of the ordinary in terms of specs, and second it was not available here in the US.

That said, things change with time, and although the specs have remained the same as when I first saw the X120, it is now going to be available here in the US.

So moving on, the fortunate or unfortunate part here, depending on who you ask is that the LG X120 will be tied to AT&T. In other words, it is coming 3G-equipped, and that means it will require an AT&T DataConnect plan.

Anyway, the X120 will be found exclusively at Radio Shack and will set you back $179.99. And as I mentioned, the DataConnect plan is required, which means you will sign a two-year agreement at $60 a month.

Feature wise, the X120 has a 10.1-inch display, 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, 1GB of RAM, a 160GB hard drive and is running Windows XP. The one nice part here is that the X120 also features the SmartOn interface which means you can boot up and connect quickly.

Basically, if you are looking for a subsidized netbook then this appears to be a nice option, but at the same time I have to offer just three words of advise; “Get a MiFi.”

Keep reading to check out the full press release…

LG Netbook Debuts Revolutionary SmartOn Interface That Takes a Shortcut to the Fun Stuff and Puts Users at the Center of Their Social Universe

AT&T’s 3G Mobile Broadband Service to Help People Stay Connected

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 23 /PRNewswire/—LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones) announced today the newest addition to their innovative product line-up with the launch of the LG X120 netbook. The first of its kind from LG, the LG X120 delivers the benefits of netbook functionality and gives users a shortcut to the fun stuff with a unique SmartOn(TM) interface that makes staying connected faster, easier and just seconds away. Available at RadioShack, the LG X120 is the perfect computing companion for social networkers, college students and young professionals on the go.

Weighing only 2.8lbs, the slim and stylish LG X120 provides the computing power of a laptop with the freedom of a mobile device. Equipped with an innovative SmartOn interface that loads in seconds, the LG netbook connects to web and photos, instant messaging and MP3 player with just the touch of a button. Designed with a sleek white matte exterior and fashionable blue trim, the LG X120 delivers 7 hours of battery life and built-in AT&T 3G wireless connectivity. Users can explore the internet, update blogs and download music from just about anywhere, anytime on the nation’s fastest 3G network.

The LG netbook also features 1GB RAM and 160GB hard drive that offers users ultimate storage space for music, photos and gaming while a generous 10.1” screen with crystal clear LED backlighting creates a viewing experience perfect for watching videos and reading e-mails while on the run. A built-in 1.3 megapixel camera and HD stereo speakers provide clear, more precise video chatting and conferencing with friends and colleagues.

“We created the LG X120 to allow consumers to stay connected on their own terms,” said Ehtisham Rabbani, vice president of product strategy and marketing for LG Mobile Phones. “The SmartOn button puts consumers seconds away from the fun stuff such as showing off your vacation photos or picking your fantasy football line-up.”

LG X120 also includes a traditional start up feature booting the complete Windows XP Operating system that allows users to plan a budget or build a basic presentation on professionally based applications. No longer limited to Wi-Fi hotspots, 3G HSDPA provides on-the-go connectivity giving users instant access to all the tools that keep them connected and make them unique.

The LG netbook will be available at select Radio Shack stores nationwide and online at www.RadioShack.com for $179.99 with a 2-year AT&T DataConnect service agreement, a $60 monthly 5GB plan. AT&T DataConnect subscribers also receive access to AT&T Wi-Fi service, which includes more than 20,000 Hot Spots nationwide.

Limited-time offer. Other conditions & restrictions apply. See contract, rate plan brochure and rebate form at store for details. Subscriber must live & have a mailing address within AT&T’s owned wireless network coverage area. Up to $36 activation fee applies. Equipment price & availability may vary by market & may not be available from independent retailers. Early Termination Fee: None if cancelled in the first 30 days, but a restocking fee may apply; thereafter up to $175.

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Appletell reviews the Be.ez LE rush notebook bag

NEWS — 2009-11-24T17:19:12+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - Never heard of Be.ez? they’ve been making bags and notebook protectors for a while now, and they’ve just announced their new line of bags for MacBooks.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Save money with Google Mobile coupons

JG Mason — 2009-11-24T17:09:22+00:00

Section: Web, Web Apps, Websites

Remember coupons? Those little rectangles of paper designed to bring you to one store or to purchase one brand? Their back and their mobile. Thanks to Google, these coupons are now added to their search results and can be shown to clerks to reap the savings.

If a business adds a mobile coupon to their Local Business listing on Google, the coupon will appear in a Google search on the “Places” page. I searched in vain to find a local retailer offering a coupon but it looks like existing offers by local merchants will have to be enabled to go mobile, new offers from here out will be offered mobile as the default. It will take a little for savvy businesses to catch on but when it does, a simple Google search as you head to check out might save you some money.

If you are a business owner and want to learn how to turn your coupons into mobile coupons, click here.

Read [Official Google Mobile Blog]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Creative drops new HD handheld video recorder

JG Mason — 2009-11-24T16:07:41+00:00

Section: Video, HDTV, Portable Video

Creative launched their 3rd generation Vado video camera yesterday, selling at $179. The new version is glossy, better looking and addresses a list of issues that plagued the first two designs. Is it ready to be added to your holiday wish list?

Creative touts their ease of use for the Vado and previous Vado’s featured a HDMI out port along with a wide angle lens. The third generation updates the device with a microphone jack (as complaints about the original audio recording were common), improved video in low/high light recordings, headphone output, motion detection to activate recording based on movement, PC and Mac compatibility and still image capture.

The only thing keeping me from recommending this video camera is memory. The 3rd gen Vado comes with 4GB and no expansion slots. In this day of relatively inexpensive SD cards featuring up to 32GB of space, I am uneasy about being locked into just 4. Even a 4GB SD card gives me the freedom to swap out cards and keep going without stopping to download and clear memory on the device. I see myself on a Caribbean island, wedged between some giant rocks filming whales in the setting sun when a out-of-memory message pops up. Is it just me that worries about these things?

If you can live with 4GB, check out the new Vado, it is a fine looking device.

Press release: [Creative] Product page: [Creative]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Ubuntu based Dell Vostro A90 netbook on sale for $184

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-24T15:06:15+00:00

Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Netbooks

Anyone looking for a deal on a netbook may want to check out one of the latest offerings coming courtesy of Dell. The netbook that is on sale is the Dell Vostro A90 and can be purchased for just $184.

Of course, there are a few points that may cause people to think twice—this particular model is running Ubuntu 8.04 and has a smaller (8.9-inch) display. Otherwise, the features are pretty much the netbook standard. The Vostro A90 sports an 8.9-inch display with a 1024 x 600 resolution, an Intel Atom N270 processor, 1GB of RAM, a 8GB SSD drive, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g and a 4-cell battery.

All things considered, this is certainly not the best, fastest or most powerful netbook available, but for $184 it seems like it would make a nice addition to someones living room. Its always nice to have that extra PC laying around for the kids or guests.

Of course, getting back to that one point—Ubuntu 8.04—personally I would suggest switching this over to the latest version of Ubuntu Netbook Remix or Jolicloud, both of which are available for free and also supported on the A90.

Product [Dell] Via [Liliputing]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

TomTom now accepting GPS trade-ins

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-24T13:34:17+00:00

Section: Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation

Thanks to a new program, those looking to save a few bucks and at the same time recycle their older model GPS will be able to take care of both at the same time. The program comes courtesy of TomTom, who are offering would be purchasers the ability to “Trade-In. Trade-Up. Get Cash Back.”

The program seems simple enough, and according to the website can be completed in just four steps.

1.) Purchase any new TomTom GPS on TomTom.com
2.) Determine the value of your trade-in, using our GPS estimator.
3.) Log in and print a prepaid shipping label and send your old GPS to our trade-in warehouse.
4.) In 7 – 14 days, you will receive a rebate check!

One nice part here is that you can trade-in just about any other brand GPS including those from Alpine, Garmin, Insignia, Magellan, Navigon and more. Of course, as with any offer like this, you may not get as much for your older GPS as you potentially could if you used another source like eBay. That said, sometimes you just want something simple and easy.

Read [Club TomTom]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Apple joins the AT&T vs. Verizon battle

NEWS — 2009-11-24T12:40:32+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - With two new ads involving the iPhone and that same unusually perfect hand, Apple points out some of the things that are impossible on Verizon’s network.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday 2009: Apple announces a special one-day shopping event

NEWS — 2009-11-24T02:41:12+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - According to Apple’s website, this Friday will see some great discounts and deals on the range of Apple products available, including free shipping.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Mimo introduces iMo 7-inch pivot touchscreen

Shawn Ingram — 2009-11-24T01:33:41+00:00

Section: Computers, Hardware

There’s not a lot of people who have, or have use for an entire second monitor for their computers. However, there are some of us who wouldn’t mind having a second, much smaller monitor to put certain applications in. Mimo Monitors has realized this with their line of 7-inch secondary monitors, and today they release a new version, and knock down the prices of the rest of the line.

The new model comes in the form of the iMo Pivot Touch. The Pivot Touch is a 7-inch touchscreen with the pivoting of the iMo Pivot. The functionality is essentially the same, with the added benefit of a touchscreen, and Mac OS X drivers finally included in the box (previous models require a download for the drivers). In addition to the new model, Mimo Monitors is dropping prices on all other models in celebration of Black Friday, with the sale lasting from now until November 30. The sale also includes a free “MIMO care package” which includes a carrying case, iProtector Screen Films, and a stylus for touchscreen models (iMo Pivot Touch, and the 720-S).

Mimo’s 7-inch monitors do seem to have a certain appeal to them, and with the lower prices and the new iMo Pivot Touch, that appeal increases a bit. Having a secondary screen for an email app, Twitter app, video or whatever you want is a nice idea. However, the questions remains whether that idea is worth the $130 for the lowest models (710-S and Pivot) or $200 and $210 for the Pivot Touch and 720-S, respectively. For the same price you could get an LCD screen with a resolution much higher than 800x480, and much larger than 7-inches. Those monitors require a graphics card and their own power rather than being powered only by USB. However, larger doesn’t always mean more desirable for everyone.

Read [PR Newswire] Read [Mimo Monitors]

Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Man marries Love Plus DS game

NEWS — 2009-11-24T01:23:58+00:00

FROM GAMERTELL - On November 22, 2009, a man went to Guam and “married” a copy of his Love Plus DS dating simulation game. Technically, he “married” Nene Anegasaki, one of the characters in the game.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday 2009: Apple one-day shopping event details

NEWS — 2009-11-24T00:19:45+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - Today, we were teased with Apple ‘s Black Friday event (or TGI Friday) with little detail on what exactly is on sale. A new “leaked” image may have given it away.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Black Friday shopping trends

Sue Walsh — 2009-11-23T23:39:24+00:00

Section: Gadgets / Other

Retrevo Gadgetology report has revealed some Black Friday shopping trends. The study surveyed 1100 shoppers about their Black Friday shopping plans. While 40% said they were going to buy electronics on Black Friday, over half said they planned to do so online. Only 18% said they would be going to stores like Best Buy and Radio Shack.

When asked how they did at the Black Friday sales last year, a whopping 72% said they got exactly what they wanted. 48% said they went on to buy other things in addition to those coveted items.

According to the study, the hot electronic item this holiday season is the HDTV. 30% said they are looking to buy one this year, and with sizes beyond 60 inches and below 10, there is sure to be one for every budget. Coming in second are laptops. 22% of the shoppers surveyed said they plan to pick one up, and 14% plan to get a GPS system or Blu-ray player. MP3 players came in last with just 9% saying they plan to buy one. Looks like Smartphones and iPods have won out over them.

Big spenders, not surprisingly, are in the minority this year. Only 22% said they planned to spend more than $1000 on electronics online and just 18% at stores. 25% plan to spend between $500 and $1000 in stores or online, 30% plan to spend between $200 and $500 online and 36% at stores, and 20% plan to spend less than $200 in both places.

What are your Black Friday plans this year? Leave a comment and share them with us!

Read [Retrevo]

Full Story » | Written by Sue Walsh for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Another Jailbreak iPhone worm, BBC panics

NEWS — 2009-11-23T23:10:30+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - A second worm affecting jailbroken iPhones has been discovered—this one specifically targeting users of Dutch bank ING—presumably to steal their log-in information.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

iPod touch with camera coming this spring?

NEWS — 2009-11-23T21:41:12+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - Apple is apparently pretty close to fixing the rumored flaws with an iPod touch camera, and may be ready to launch the updated device in the spring.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Gadgetell Giveaway: Kicker EB51, EB71 headphones

Robert Nelson — 2009-11-23T21:21:20+00:00

Section: Audio, Portable Audio, Features, Contests

As promised in my earlier review post, we have a giveaway for the Gadgetell readers. Up for grabs is one set of Kicker EB51 ear buds and one set of Kicker EB71 ear buds.

Due to the fact that we have two sets, we are going to have two winners.

So, with two sets of ear buds and two winners it only seems logical that we give you two ways to enter.

Leave a comment below.
Post the following message on Twitter.
Contest Alert: I just entered to win a free set of Kicker earbuds on @gadgetell http://tinyurl.com/gtellkicker #gadgetell #kicker

Each person can enter the giveaway two times. In other words, each person can leave one comment and tweet one message.

Finally, this contest will run until 5PM EST on Friday November 27, 2009. Good luck!

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Free GPS comes Android 1.6 devices

JG Mason — 2009-11-23T20:05:45+00:00

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile, Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation

In an early Thanksgiving present, Google has rolled out Google Navigation to Android 1.6 users. Phones such as the T-Mobile G1 and myTouch can all access the free turn-by-turn navigation Google announced with the Motorola Droid. Be jealous no more, or at least, less jealous.

Also included in the release is layers for these phones. Now, users can overlay their maps with transit maps (oh so handy!) as well as info from my maps, Wikipedia and more. Sales of phones still running Android 1.6, like the HTC phones with the Sense UI, will be helped by this addition. Nice move Google.

Users can download the latest version of Google Maps from the Android Market and begin navigating all over the US (the only place it will work) today. The service is in beta and is free.

Note: some Android 2.0 functions will not work on Android 1.6. For example, the “navigate to” voice command will not work on the older Android release.

Read: [Official Google Mobile Blog]

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »

Appletell reviews four apps from SpoonJuice

NEWS — 2009-11-23T19:39:51+00:00

FROM APPLETELL - SpoonJuice has embraced the diversity of iPhone apps within their own offerings, and we review four of them: Nightstand, Fun Booth, The Plateau, and the free Air Balloon.
MORE »

Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »