The Singapore Gadget Talk Show

I've Moved: ahboon.sg

2011-08-21T11:13:00.000+08:00

It's has been a fruitful 5 years on this blog.

Time has come for me to move to a full domain for many reasons including the fact that China has got a very good firewall team that prevents me from blogging here.

Here is my new blog address, http://ahboon.sg. Hopefully for the many years to come...

Dell XPS 15z: XPS on Diet Again!

2011-05-24T23:27:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] It’s a new Dell XPS. But this time a lot more attention is given, from consumers to the media. Let’s give a warm welcome to Dell XPS 15z.

Starting with a brand new design at 24.68mm to the new generation of Intel Core i5 and i7 to USB 3.0. Adding the usual suspect of HD display and latest mobile graphics in Nvidia GT525m, it’s a whole new package. And oh, like Dell Alienware, if you ask for it, Dell XPS can also be equipped with 3D display.

Impressed or not, prices start from S$1,799. Can’t wait to see it in stores! For now, go past the link below to see the specifications and press release.

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Dell Introduces the Ultra-Powerful XPS 15z –

One of the Thinnest 15” PCs[1]

n Less Mass, More Appeal: the Ultimate Blend of Style and Performance

n Uncompromising Performance with 2^nd Generation Intel® Core^TM i5 & i7 Processors, Optional Full HD Screens and Up to Eight Hours of Battery Life^[i]

n First in a Series of New Thin, Ultra-powerful Laptops from Dell This Year

SINGAPORE, May 24, 2011 – Dell today introduced the XPS 15z laptop, one of the thinnest 15-inch PCs, and the first in a series of new thin and ultra-powerful products from Dell to come this year. With the XPS 15z, everyone from mobile warriors to students and small-business owners now have everything they need to work hard and play hard in one stunning package.

A leading-edge combination of uncompromising power and stunning design, the XPS 15z offers 2^nd-generation Intel Core i5 and Core i7 processors, a 15.6-inch Full HD (1080p) display for superior entertainment and web-browsing experiences, a backlit keyboard with adjustable brightness and up to eight hours of battery life^[ii] – all housed in a luxurious, eye-catching and elegantly crafted case that is less than an inch thick.

The XPS 15z is the first in a series of upcoming thin Inspiron- and XPS-branded products that deliver the ultimate blend of style and performance so you can pursue your personal passions.

“The XPS 15z delivers uncompromising performance in our most beautifully designed laptop yet,” said Deepak Wagh, General Manager, Consumer and Small Business, Dell Singapore. “It delivers all the must-have features -- from next-generation Intel Core i processors for incredible performance to optional full HD screens that are up to 50 percent brighter than standard displays – all in a stunning form factor that makes it one of the thinnest 15-inch PCs.”

“The XPS 15z provides a glimpse into a series of visually stunning and powerful systems coming soon to our consumer and small-to-medium-business product portfolio,” added Wagh. “We’re committed to introducing next-generation products that help people pursue their personal and professional passions.”

Less Mass, More Appeal

A technology package perfect for pumping out spectacular, media-rich office presentations or watching the latest award-winning movies, the XPS 15z includes 2^nd generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, a brilliant 15.6-inch WLED display with a Full HD option that has almost two times the HD resolution of standard HD displays, NVIDIA graphics with 3DTV play capabilities^[iii], built-in WiFi, Bluetooth 3.0, USB 3.0 and a backlit keyboard.

Despite its incredibly slim exterior, the XPS 15z delivers uncompromising performance, including NVIDIA discrete graphics with Optimus technology that automatically switches to power-saving integrated graphics under reduced workloads, helping the battery last longer on coast-to-coast flights and for movie marathons. In addition, it offers ample hard drive storage and a slot-loading DVD +/- RW drive for watching the latest movies or burning music to a disc. And the optional Full HD (1080p) display brings HDTV-type quality to the laptop screen.

Advanced wireless features make XPS 15z your go-to device from the road or the living room. Built-in Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity ensure it’s fast and easy to connect with e-mail, websites, Skype and Facebook from almost anywhere^[iv]. For at-home entertainment, the optional Intel Wireless Display^[v] feature enables videos and photos to be streamed wirelessly from your XPS 15z to an HDMI-equipped TV. And with the exclusive Dell Stage user interface, it’s easy to access personal content such as music, photos and videos.

At first glance, the XPS 15z design, with its clean aluminum design, appears like it floats above the surface, and the polished, brushed finishes with sophisticated accents add to a luxurious appearance.

Priced from SGD$1,799, the XPS 15z, like all XPS computers, is designed and built from the ground up to provide a premium computing experience with the best materials, technology, performance and reliability Dell offers.

Availability:

The XPS 15z is available today in Singapore on www.Dell.com.sg and will be available through Dell’s retail partners by 31 May.

Detailed Information:

n Thin (0.97”/24.68mm) laptop PC with Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium; aluminum and mag-alloy enclosure

n 2nd-generation Intel Core i5 and Core i7 Dual Core processor choices

n Standard HD or optional Full HD (1920x1080) WLED display

n Fast NVIDIA graphics options^[vi]:

o NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 525M with 1GB graphics memory

o NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 525M with 2GB graphics memory

n Includes NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology; NVIDIA 3DTV Play technology

n 4GB up to 8GB DDR3^[vii] 1333Mhz memory^[viii] options

n Fast 7200RPM hard disk storage, up to 750GB^[ix]

n Built-in Slot load DVD +/- RW (reads & writes to CD/DVD)

n Backlit, Chiclet-style keyboard with adjustable brightness

n Optimized touchpad

n Built-in Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6230 802.11 A/G/N and Bluetooth 3.0 wireless connectivity^[x]

n Intel Wireless Display-ready^[xi]

n Up to 8 hours of battery life with 8-cell battery^[xii]

n USB 3.0 (2), USB/eSATA with PowerShare, HDMI 1.4, Mini Display-Port, Gigabit Ethernet and audio connectors

n Built-in 9-in-1 media card reader

n Built-in 1.3MP HD Webcam with dual array digital microphones and stereo speakers

n Dell Stage software for fast access to content like music, videos and photos

n Dimensions: Height: 0.97” (24.68mm) / Width: 15.15” (384.85mm) / Depth 10.25” (260.37mm); Weight: starting at 5.54lbs (2.51 kg)^[xiii]

Key Links:

www.Dell.com/sg/p/xps-15z/pd

www.Dell.com.sg/XPS

About Dell:

Dell (NASDAQ: DELL) listens to its customers and uses that insight to make technology simpler and create innovative solutions that simplify daily activities and help people stay entertained, connected and in touch. Learn more at www.dell.com.sg.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ20 Review: Packs everything in!

2011-05-22T01:51:00.001+08:00

[REVIEW] Panasonic TZ series have always been kept as the “Super-zoom Compact Series”, offering more than 10x Optical zoom is each variant. In 2011, the latest TZ model, TZ20 is no exceptional and added to the mix, is a series of latest trend in compact cameras.

Specification Highlights:

14.1 Megapixels 24-384mm lens
16x Optical Zoom LEICA DC Lens from 24mm Ultra Wide-angle
1920 x 1080 (50i) Full HD Movie in AVCHD Format
Built-in GPS Function for Expanding Fun of Both Photography and Travel
Intuitive Touch-screen Operation with 3.0-inch LCD
3D Photo Shooting Capability
iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode Featuring Intelligent Handheld Night Shot Mode

TZ20 is not the most attractive compact camera but it’s a conventional LUMIX design. Not the thinnest nor the heaviest but it’s not bulky either. But what about the image quality?

Image Quality:

Having own Panasonic FZ28 before, I am familiar with the image quality that the Lumix series and Leica lens can deliver. TZ20 keeps up with the standard and produces very vibrant colours with outdoor shots. I love the object’s depth and sharpness of the images.

Night shots else there is really nothing much to shout about given the small sensor but the same can be said for most compact cameras. And check out the comparison between the TZ20 and iPhone 4, which many uses today instead on a conventional compact.

Link – iPhone 4 camera
Link - TZ20

But as a wise man I know says, pictures speak a thousand words. I had brought the TZ20 out for a ride. Also look out for the photo with the foreign worker, I max out the zoom at 16x, and it is done without tripod. Pictures are taken with Panasonic’s intelligent Auto (iA) mode, since with a compact camera, Auto mode is probably THE mode most of the time.

TZ20 Sample Photos

VIEW SLIDE SHOW

DOWNLOAD ALL

3D mode and GPS:

It’s easy to take a 3D photo; take press the shutter and move the camera to left or right and it’s done. But you will a need a 3D compatible device such as 3D-enabled laptop or TV to view the 3D pictures.

Also in TZ20 is the GPS function where each individual photo is captured with coordinates of geographical location.

Touchscreen and LCD Display

TZ20 features a touchscreen display which appears to be a gimmick but do offers a little extra over buttons operated cameras. Most notably, you can lock in your focus area on-screen via a touch instead of using the 4 way direction pad. After locking in, the camera will focus on that particular area even if you sway the camera. Neat.

In terms of operations, inside the preview mode, you can flip photos with a touch on screen. Besides that, not all menu are accessible via touchscreen. As a result there could be some inconsistency when relying solely on touchscreen. It could be more ideal for users to use the buttons for operations as to be more consistent and natural.

Finally, like other compact cameras, TZ20’s generic LCD is not sharpest especially when high-end mobile phones these days are equipped with better display. Pixels are still visible and brightness level are not too disappointing.

Other things you might want to know:

TZ20 is equipped with a dedicated video recording button. TZ20 offers AVCHD; recording of 1080i videos. And direct HDMI connection to TV.

Wrapping Up…

Clearly, Panasonic tries to pack as much in as possible, leaving out the looks. Yet, 3D photo is probably not going to happen for people without 3D TVs and geo tagging (via GPS) is not essential to many as I would have guessed.

But at the end of the day, a compact camera still needs to produce great images and I think TZ20 does just that. Then it’s a matter of whether you prefers the whole suite of features to justify the price tag.

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[Full Specifications]

Metrics

Dimensions (W x H x D)
104.9 x 57.6 x 33.4 mm / (4.13 x 2.27 x 1.31 in)

Weight
Approx. 197g without Battery and SD Memory Card (0.434 lb) / Approx. 219g with Battery and SD Memory Card (0.482 lb)

Optics

Camera Effective Pixels
14.1 Megapixels

Sensor Size / Total Pixels / Filter
1/2.33-type MOS sensor / 15.1 Total Megapixels / Primary Color Filter

Aperture
F3.3 - 5.9/ Multistage Iris Diagram (F3.3 - 6.3 (W) / F5.9 - 6.3 (T))

Optical Zoom
16x

Focal Length
f=4.3-68.8mm (24-384mm in 35mm equiv.) / (29-464mm in 35mm equiv. in movie recording)

Extra Optical Zoom (EZ)
18.9x (4:3 / 10M), 22.5x (4:3 / 7M), 27.0x (4:3 / 5M), 33.8x (4:3 / under 3M)

Intelligent Zoom
21x

Lens
LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR / 12 elements in 10 groups / (3 Aspherical Lenses / 6 Aspherical surfaces)

2-Speed Zoom
Yes

Optical Image Stabilizer
Power O.I.S. (On / Off / Active mode(only for motion picture) )

Digital Zoom
4x / ( Max. 64.0 x combined with Optical Zoom without Extra Optical Zoom ) / (Max. 135 x combined with Extra Optical Zoom)

Focusing Area
Normal: Wide 50 cm - infinity / Tele 200 cm - infinity / Macro / Intelligent AUTO/ movie recording: Wide 3 cm - infinity / Tele 100cm - infinity

Focus Range Display
Yes

AF Assist Lamp
Yes

Focus
Normal / AF Macro, Zoom Macro, Quick AF, AF Tracking, Touch AF/AE / Continuous AF (only for motion picture)

AF Metering
Face / AF Tracking / 23pt / 1pt / Spot / Touch Area

Shutter Speed
Still: 60 - 1/4000 sec / Starry Sky Mode : 15, 30, 60sec

Shutter Interval
approx. 0.3 sec

Viewfinder
-

Recording

Motion Picture Recording (*2)
[4:3] VGA: 640 x 480 pixels, 30fps (Motion JPEG) / QVGA: 320 x 240 pixels, 30 fps (Motion JPEG) / [HD Movie] 1920x1080 pixels, 50i (GFS: 17Mbps, FSH: 17Mbps / AVCHD) (Sensor output is 50p) / 1280x 720 pixels, 50p(GS: 17Mbps, SH: 17Mbps / AVCHD) / 1280x 720 pixels, 30fps (Quicktime Motion JPEG)

AVCHD with picture quality (Continuous recordable time[motion pictures])
approx. 70 min (GFS, FSH), 85 min (GS, SH)

AVCHD with picture quality (Actual recordable time[motion pictures])
approx. 35 min (GFS, FSH), 40 min (GS, SH)

Motion Deblur
Yes

Face Recognition
Photo

Optical Image Stabilizer
Photo / Movie

Intelligent ISO Control
Photo

Face Detection
Photo / Movie

Intelligent Scene Selector
Photo (Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Handheld Night Shot, Sunset, Macro) / Movie (Portrait, Scenery, Low Light, Macro)

Intelligent Exposure
Photo / Movie

AF Tracking
Photo

Digital Red Eye Correction (Red-Eye Removal)
Photo

Intelligent Resolution Technology
Photo / Movie

File Format
Still Image: JPEG(DCF/Exif2.3) / 3D Image: MPO / Motion picture: AVCHD, QuickTime Motion JPEG

AVCHD / AVCHD Lite REC
PAL

Mode Switch
[Recording] / [Playback]

One-Touch Movie Button
Yes

Mode Dial / Mode Button
Intelligent Auto, P, A, S, M, Custom, 3D Photo, SCN, My SCN 2, My SCN 1

Still Image Scene Mode
Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Panorama Assist, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Handheld Night Shot, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby1, Baby2, / Pet, Sunset, High sensitivity, Flash Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial, Pinhole, Film Grain, High Dynamic (standard/ art/ B&W), Photoframe, Under Water, High Speed Movie

Movie Scene Mode
Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Low Light, Food, Party, Candle Light, Sunset, Beach, Snow, Aerial, Pinhole, Film Grain, Underwater, High Sensitivity, High Dynamic(Standard, Art, B&W) / (Activated by selecting Still Picture Scene Mode then pressing movie button. Still Picture Scene Modes without corresponding Movie Scene Mode is recorded in Normal Mode)

Continuous Shooting Mode
Full-Resolution Image, 10 frames/sec Max. 15images

MOTION JPEG with picture quality set to [HD] (Continuous recordable time[motion pictures])
approx. 85 min

MOTION JPEG with picture quality set to [HD] (Actual recordable time[motion pictures])
approx. 40 min

Exposure
Program AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE, Manual

Exposure Compensation
1/3 EV step, +/-2 EV

Backlight Compensation
Yes (only in Intelligent AUTO mode)

Auto (AE) Bracketing
1/3 ~1EV step, Max +/-1, 3 frames

Light Metering
Intelligent Multiple / Center Weighted / Spot

ISO Sensitivity
Auto / i.ISO / 100 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 / High Sensitivity mode (ISO 1600-6400)

Aspect Ratio
1:1 / 4:3 / 3:2 / 16:9

Still Picture Recording
[1:1] 3232x3232(10.5M) / 2736x2736(7.5M EZ) / 2304x2304(5.5M EZ)/ 1920x1920(3.5M EZ) / 1536x1536(2.5M EZ) / 480x480(0.2M EZ) / [4:3] 4320x3240(14M) / 3648x2736(10M EZ) / 3072x2304(7M EZ)/ 2560X1920(5M EZ) / 2048X1536(3M EZ) / 640x480(0.3M EZ) / [3:2] 4320x2880 (12.5M) / 3648x2432 (9M EZ) / 3072x2048 (6M EZ)/ 2560x1712 (4.5M EZ) / 2048x1360 (2.5M EZ) / 640x424 (0.3M EZ) / [16:9] 4320x2432 (10.5M) / 3648x2056 (7.5M EZ) / 3072x1728 (5.5M EZ)2560x1440(3.5M EZ) / 1920x1080 (2M EZ) / 640x360 (0.2M EZ) /

Image Quality
Fine / Standard (3D mode: MPO Fine / MPO Standard )

White Balance
Auto / Daylight / Cloudy / Shade / Incandescent / White Set / (Selectable at Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Panorama Assist, Sports, Baby, Pet, High Sensitivity, Pinhole, Photo Frame, High Dynamic, High Speed Movie)

Quick Menu
Yes

Color Mode / Color Effect
Standard, Natural, Vivid, Black & White, Sepia, Cool, Warm, Happy

GPS
Yes

Real-time histogram
Yes

Composition Guide line
Yes (2 pattern)

Auto Review
off, 1sec, 2sec, Hold

Easy Zoom / Zoom Resume
- / Yes

Optical Zoom in Motion Picture
Yes

Macro Zoom
Yes

Orientation Detector
Yes

Scene Mode Help Screen
No

Self Timer
2sec / 10sec

Focus Icon Select
Yes (in Face Recognition only)

Playback

Playback Mode
Normal Playback, Slideshow, Filtering Playback（Picture Only, Video Only, 3D, GPS, Travel, Category, Favorites), Calendar Playback

Thumbnails / Zoomed Playback
12,30-thumbnails / Yes

Calendar Display / Dual-Image Playback
Yes / No

Set Favorites / Rotate Image
Yes / No

Playback Still Images with Audio
-

Playback Motion Picture
Yes

Slideshow Mode
All / Picture Only / Video Only / 3D / GPS / Travel / Category / Favorites / BGM Effect (Natural / Slow / Swing / Urban / OFF)

Show Histogram
Yes

Delete Image
Single / Multi / All / All except Favorites

DPOF Print Setting / Set Protection
Yes / Yes

Resize / Trim / Aspect Conv. / Leveling
Yes / Yes / No / No

Copy / Title Edit / Text Stamp
Yes / Yes / Yes

Video Divide
Yes

PictBridge Support
Single / Multi / All / Favorites / DPOF

Setup

OSD language
Japanese, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish

Movie REC Guide
Yes

Wind-Cut in Motion Picture
Yes

Travel Date / World Time
Yes / Yes

Others

LUMIX Image Uploader
Yes

LCD Monitor
7.5cm (3.0") TFT Touch Screen LCD Display (460K dots), AR coat / Field of View : approx. 100% Wide View Angle / AUTO Power LCD mode, Power LCD mode

Touch Panel
Yes

Built-in-Flash
Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off / 0.6 - 5.0m (Wide/ISO Auto), 1.0 - 2.8m (Tele/ISO Auto)

Recording Media
Built-in Memory, SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card, SDXC Memory Card

Built-in-Memory
Approx. 18MB

Microphone / Speaker
Stereo / Yes

Interface
mini HDMI, AV Output (NTSC/PAL), USB2.0 High speed

Viera Link
Yes

HDMI output
Auto Only (Unselectable)

Power
ID-Security Li-ion Battery Pack (3.6V, Minimum: 895mAh) (Included) / AC Adaptor (Input: 110-240V AC) (Optional)

Battery life (approx.)
260 pictures (CIPA Standard)*1

Included Software
PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.1 HD Lite Edition / QuickTime / Adobe Reader / Super LoiLoScope ( trial version)

Standard Accessories
Battery Charger, Battery Pack, AC Cable, AV Cable, Stylus Pen, USB Cable, AC Cable, Hand Strap, CD-ROM

Logitech Wireless Mouse M235: Affordable Option!

2011-05-21T12:59:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] What’s new? A new mouse from Logitech. It is almost not possible to differentiate one mouse from another but Logitech is probably one reputable producer of over a billion mice.

Logitech Wireless Mouse M235 is now on sale for S$32.

Link – Logitech M235 Page

Go past the link for full press release.

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Logitech Introduces Wireless Mouse for Comfortable Surfing Wherever You Use Your Laptop

Logitech Wireless Mouse M235 Features Advanced Optical Tracking, Sleek and Comfortable Design, and 2.4 GHz Wireless Connectivity

SINGAPORE – May 18, 2011— Today Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) introduced the Logitech® Wireless Mouse M235, a sleek mouse that delivers precise clicking and pointing — powered by Logitech® Advanced Optical Tracking — making it easier than ever to surf the Web and navigate on your laptop wherever you use it.

“We’ve learned a lot about people’s preferences while building more than a billion mice, and the Logitech Wireless Mouse M235 benefits from this expertise,” said Prasenjit Sarkar, Regional Director of South Asia, Logitech. “Features such as the plug-and-forget nano-receiver and advanced 2.4 GHz wireless, along with the mouse’s sleek, contoured design, make the M235 a great, reliable choice.”

The Logitech Wireless Mouse M235 will help keep you comfortable, even when you’re on the go. This hand-friendly mouse features a compact, contoured design with soft rubber grips and a smooth scroll wheel, enabling you to effortlessly scroll through documents.

Built with Logitech Advanced Optical tracking, the Logitech Wireless Mouse M235 lets you move beyond tricky finger maneuvers with your laptop touchpad, and enjoy precise pointing, dragging and clicking while surfing your favorite websites and sharing text and links with friends.

Logitech’s Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity delivers a powerful, reliable connection with virtually no delays or dropouts—all through a tiny plug-and-forget nano-receiver that is small enough to stay in your laptop on the go. Plus, you can easily add another compatible mouse or keyboard.

The mouse can go a full year without battery hassles, and an On/Off switch and smart sleep mode help extend battery life. A helpful indicator light helps to eliminate low power surprises.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech Wireless Mouse M235 is available now at S$32.

About Logitech

Logitech is a world leader in products that connect people to the digital experiences they care about. Spanning multiple computing, communication and entertainment platforms, Logitech’s combined hardware and software enable or enhance digital navigation, music and video entertainment, gaming, social networking, audio and video communication over the Internet, video security and home-entertainment control. Founded in 1981, Logitech International is a Swiss public company listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (LOGN) and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (LOGI).

# # #

Logitech, the Logitech logo, and other Logitech marks are registered in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. For more information about Logitech and its products, visit the company’s Web site at www.logitech.com.

Nubox: New Branch at J8!

2011-05-12T00:10:00.002+08:00

[HAPPENING] New Nubox branch at Junction beginning 13th May! Drag your butt out to the branch on Friday, be the first 50 and receive a goodie bag for your effort, free!

Also check out the opening promotion on that day!

Link - Poster 1
Link - Poster 2

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Apple iPad 2: Telco Selling ‘em

2011-05-09T23:40:00.001+08:00

[HAPPENING] It’s like the Telecom companies waited for the perfect moment. In the unprecedented Opposition victory in the General Election, the Telecom companies, in the shape of M1 and Starhub have announced, in an unprecedented move, they are selling iPad 2 bundled with data plans directly to the consumers.

No prices yet but it’s worth speculating how much is the Telecom company’s subsidies. S$200 like most other mobile phones? I think the data plan subscription is probably more important. Unless, you use it everyday, it’s hard to justify spending more than S$20 a month on a sole data plan.

SingTel has not announced any similar yet.

Source – Starhub
Source - M1

Creative Zen Style M100 and M300: A Certain iPod?

2011-05-08T23:10:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] No surprise when Creative Zen M100 and 300 is announced a couple of days back. Well these media players just look like similar to the Apple iPod Nano. Except that the M100 and M300 are much cheaper and comes with MicroSD slot.

But it has to be said that these latest media player from Creative looks really classy and modern, quite one of the best from Creative in a long time. If I would have to get a really small music player now, this is it (subjected to audio quality, but Creative shouldn’t disappoint too much in that area).

The differences between M100 and M300 are Bluetooth and FM Radio, both missing in M100.

Specifications:

Display: 1.45" TFT (262K colours)
Capacity: 4GB, 8GB, 16GB
Bluetooth: Bluetooth 2.1 wireless technology (supports A2DP & AVRCP)
FM Radio function with 32 preset stations
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours (based on128kpbs, 4mins/song, MP3 file)
Supported Audio Formats: MP3, WMA (DRM9),WAV (IMA-ADPCM),
Audible Format 4, Audible AAX
Supported Picture Formats: JPEG
Supported Video Formats: Transcoded SMV (requires respective codec pre-installed on PC)
Built-in microphone for voice recording
Additional feature: Clock display

Pricing (products to be available mid-june):

Creative ZEN Style M100 4GB S$59.00
Creative ZEN Style M100 8GB S$69.00
Creative ZEN Style M300 4GB S$79.00
Creative ZEN Style M300 8GB S$89.00
Creative ZEN Style M300 16GB** S$129.00

Link – Creative Zen M300 Press Release

Samsung GALAXY Pro: New QWERTY Android

2011-05-07T13:10:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] Motorola Charm and Motorola Flipout, probably the only others to be mentioned in the same bracket as the latest Samsung phone, GALAXY Pro.

The first thing to come to mind is the resolution of the screen, not sure if the screen resolution is going to a problem for some apps since Android apps are generally produced for full touch screen phones with a vertical rectangle display.

But that is also the flexibility that Android offers and in turn gives consumers more choices. In this case you get a touchscreen as well as QWERTY keyboard.

Samsung GALAXY Pro is going for S$48 with a 2 year SingTel 3G Flexi Lite AMPed Plan.

Specification:

TFT capacitive touchscreen, 256K colors, 320 x 240 pixels, 2.8 inches
Android OS, v2.2 (Froyo)
800 MHz processor
512 MB storage
3.15 MP, 2048x1536 pixels, autofocus
HSDPA, Wi-Fi b/g/n, Personal Hotspot, Bluetooth
MicroSD card slot
108.6 x 66.7 x 10.7 mm / 103.4g

Link – Onlygizmos.com’s review

Apple iPad 2: Official Commercial

2011-05-06T00:48:00.001+08:00

[HAPPENING] 30 odd seconds commercial for the iPad 2, as usual not shown on our local TV. Well there is no need to for obvious reasons.

Blogging on iPad generation 1, ironic? Probably not.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Epson Stylus Photo R3000: 2011 TIPA Award “Best Expert Photo Printer”

2011-05-03T22:11:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] I have no idea why you would need a A3+ photographic and graphics arts printer, but why not? Then you can print a high quality, A3 size or larger poster of Nicole Seah to place it in your room or show it at the rally. (Nicole Seah is a popular politician in Singapore.)

Here is one recommendation that can do just that, 2011 TIPA Awards winner for “Best Expert Photo Printer”; Epson Stylus Photo R3000.

Epson Stylus Photo R3000 will be available $2,138 (inclusive of GST) from 1st May 2011.

I am hardly a photographic or graphic worker so hit the link below for the press release and check out the latest Epson printer.

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[PRESS RELEASE]

EPSON LAUNCHES ITS MOST ADVANCED, HIGHEST PERFORMING A3+ PHOTO PRINTER EVER

– THE EPSON STYLUS PHOTO R3000

NEWS RELEASE


Epson Stylus Photo R3000 Photographic and Graphic Arts Printer

SINGAPORE: May 03, 2011 – Epson, a world leader in digital imaging and printing solutions has launched its most advanced A3+ capable photographic and graphic arts printer – the Epson Stylus Photo R3000; which has also recently won the prestigious 2011 TIPA Award for “Best Expert Photo Printer”.

In addition to other advanced features including fine art and roll paper media handling and wireless connectivity, this printer uses Epson's advanced UltraChrome K3 Ink with Vivid Magenta ink set which features an expanded colour gamut and a greatly improved range of expression. This is made possible with newly formulated vivid magenta and vivid light magenta inks that offer more dramatic blues and violets as compared to the previous generation Epson UltraChrome K3 ink set. The ink set also has three levels of black ink to produce stunning monochrome prints and dramatically improve gradations in colour photos, with automatic switching between matte and photo black inks depending on the media used.

“The Epson Stylus Photo R3000 is designed to top its class of A3 capable professional photo printers,” said Tan May Lin, General Manager of Epson Singapore. “We are very confident that photographers will be impressed by its advanced features and high performance.”

“We were very impressed by the black and white output of this unit as well, something not common to this class of printers and something many photo enthusiasts desire,” said the panel of judges which gave the Epson Stylus Photo R3000 the 2011 TIPA “Best Expert Photo Printer” Award.

Key Features of the Epson Stylus Photo R3000

Epson Micro Piezo Print Head - The eight-channel, high-precision Epson Micro Piezo print head used by the printer produces a maximum resolution of 5670 x 1440 optimized dpi and variable-sized droplets as small as 2 picoliters and places them with precision and accuracy. For decreased maintenance and increased reliability, the print head also incorporates an ink repellent coating.

Epson UltraChrome K3 ink with Vivid Magenta – The Epson UltraChrome K3 with Vivid Magenta ink set expands on the already-wide colour range of the previous generation UltraChrome K3 ink set by including new vivid magenta and vivid light magenta inks. These new inks create more dramatic looking blue and violet hues while significantly improving the overall colour range the printer is capable of.

Advanced Media Handling - In addition to a main top-loading, high-capacity tray, this printer features a new front-in, front-out media path designed for fine art media up to 1.3 mm thick. It also offers broad media support with cut-sheet media handling, roll paper printing up to 44-inches long, and CD/DVD printing.

Auto-switching Black Inks – Depending on the media used, the Epson Stylus Photo R3000 automatically switches between Photo and Matte black inks to produce the deepest blacks and richest color on glossy, matte or fine art media.

Three-level black ink technology – With three levels of black ink (photo or matt black, light black and light light black), the Epson Stylus Photo R3000 is capable of stunning monochrome prints and faithful tonal gradations in colour photos.

2.5-inch colour LCD monitor – With its built in 2.5-inch colour LCD monitor, the Epson Stylus Photo R3000 allows users to easily control the printer and receive information or instructions.

Unparalleled Connectivity - Featuring, built-in Ethernet, wireless 802.11n and Hi-Speed USB 2.0, the printer provides flexible options for fast connectivity to multiple computers in a home or studio.

Key Specifications

Print technology and resolution	Epson Micro Piezo print head / 5760 x1440 dpi
Print speed	A4 photo: approx 117 sec / A3 photo: approx 195 sec
Paper handling	Automatic sheet feeder (89mm – 329mm) Front art paper path (0.3 – 0.7mm thickness) Front art paper path (0.7 – 1.3 mm thickness) Roll paper (329mm [13-inch] with 2-inch core only) CD/DVD
Ink set	Epson Ultrachrome K3 ink with Vivid Magenta Photo Black, Cyan, Vivid Magenta, Yellow, Light Cyan, Vivid Light Magenta, Light Black, Light Light Black and Matte Black
Supported OS	Windows XP, Vista, and 7 (32 & 64-bit) Mac OSX 10.4.11 or later
Price and availability	$2,138 (inclusive of GST) Available from 1st May 2011

###

For more information, please visit the new Epson Media Centre at

www.epson.com.sg/mediacentre

About Epson

Epson is a global imaging and innovation leader that is dedicated to exceeding the vision of customers worldwide through its compact, energy-saving, high-precision technologies, with a product lineup ranging from printers and 3LCD projectors for business and the home, to electronic and crystal devices.

Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises nearly 80,000 employees in 102 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and the communities in which it operates. For further information, please see: http://global.epson.com/

About Epson South Asia & Southeast Asia

Since 1982, Epson has developed a strong presence across major markets in South and Southeast Asia. Led by the regional headquarters, Epson Singapore Pte Ltd., Epson South Asia and Southeast Asia spans an extensive network of 18 countries and is responsible for delivering and supporting Epson’s cutting-edge consumer and business digital imaging products to the customers of these markets through its comprehensive infrastructure of 427 service outlets, 4 Epson solution centres, 10 manufacturing facilities and 1 R&D centre. http://www.epson.com.sg

About Epson Singapore

Epson is the world's leader in digital imaging solutions. The company’s Singapore operation is also the Regional Headquarters of Seiko Epson Corporation. The company markets and supports Epson printers, scanners, projectors, electronic devices including liquid crystal displays, semiconductors and system devices in South East and South Asia. For more details, please visit www.epson.com.sg

MIO Stadium: First Ever 3D BPL match

2011-05-02T15:56:00.001+08:00

[HAPPENING] I knew it would come one day, and it did. Three consecutive posts related to 3D technology. I have latest 3D TVs from LG, 3D gaming notebooks from Dell Alienware and yesterday, it was the first ever 3D broadcast of a soccer match between Manchester United and Arsenal on MIO Stadium in Singapore. Quite a milestone.

Too bad, I don’t have a 3D TV but anyhow I wasn’t aware of that until I saw it while surfing the channels on MIO. Looks like there aren’t a lot of advertising on this one.

Going forward it will be available on MIO TV, channel 111.

Dell Alienware Series: Updated with 3D and Sandy Bridge!

2011-05-01T13:31:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] As you would have expected, the Alienware series is now updated with the latest line of Intel processors and new graphics such AMD Radeon HD 6970M and NVIDIA GeForce GT 555M. And of course 3D gaming capabilities.

Also new is the 14” series, known as M14x.

The Alienware products are available in Singapore from April 28, 2011 on www.dell.com.sg, and at the Alienware Concept Store in Suntec City Mall with the following pricing;

· Alienware M11x starting from S$1,999

· Alienware M14x starting from S$2,299

· Alienware M17x starting from S$3,699

Hit the link below to see the press release from DELL.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[PRESS RELEASE]

Dell Redefines Mobile Gaming with New Alienware Offerings; bolstering the gaming scene in Singapore

· Enhances award-winning Alienware line-up with new gaming system and fresh upgrades

· Unveils the First Alienware Concept Store in Southeast Asia at Suntec City Mall

· Celebrates fifth anniversary with the Dell family

SINGAPORE, April 28, 2011 – Dell is reinforcing its Alienware brand in the Singapore gaming scene today with the launch the all-new 14-inch M14x laptop and new refreshes to popular M11x and M17x. In addition, the company is also unveiling its first-ever Alienware Concept Store in Southeast Asia in celebration of its fifth anniversary as part of the Dell family.

New Gaming Experiences Built for You

For gamers seeking a mobile HD gaming experience who want a balance of performance and mobility, the new 14-inch M14x offers the best of both worlds. Weighing in at less than 6.5lbs, the M14x features full-voltage second-generation four- and two-core Intel Core i CPUs, discrete graphics and an optical disk drive. Additionally, the M14x offers updated graphics featuring the NVIDIA GeForce GT 555M with up to 3GB of graphics memory.

For the truly mobile gamer, the M11x has long been a favorite, but now it’s even better! New improvements to the popular M11x include second-generation Intel Core i processors with Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, updated graphics featuring the NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M. The latest M11x also features a soft touch finish with a new Nebula Red option.

The new M17x is Alienware’s first 3D capable gaming laptop, offering a realistic, lifelike, mobile gaming experience in a 17-inch display. With its available full HD 120Hz 3D display, the new M17x offers eye-popping stereoscopic viewing for today’s most realistic gaming and mind-blowing 3D Blu-ray movie experiences.

“If you’re a gamer, you’re going to love our new family of laptops, which deliver on the features gamers care most about – uncompromised graphics performance, latency-free wireless HD streaming to HDTVs, and lifelike 3D gaming,” said Deepak Wagh, General Manager, Consumer and Small Business, Dell Singapore. “We are committed to delivering the best gaming systems for enthusiasts everywhere and we take great pride in helping them ‘pwn’, no matter where they are in the world.”

These newly launched laptops represent the most-significant expansion in Alienware’s portfolio in several years. All three platforms offer the latest in gaming technology to deliver the most immersive high-performance gaming experience imaginable.

Connecting Consumers with the Best of Alienware offerings

Designed to give shoppers a chance to experience the best of Alienware and its partners, the first ever Alienware Concept Store in Southeast Asia offers customers a full range of Alienware desktops and laptops, and selection of third party accessories and software.

“Our customers have told us they want more choice, better experience and service when shopping for a new gaming machine,” said Deepak. “We want to bring the entire gaming experience to our consumers, engage directly with them and improve the experience of purchasing. We want to showcase what’s possible with our Alienware offerings.”

Celebrating the fifth anniversary

This month also marks a milestone as Alienware celebrates its five-year anniversary as part of the Dell family. The brand has a rich history of innovation and delivering solutions that delight gamers and performance enthusiasts around the world. Since its acquisition by Dell, Alienware has expanded to provide not just award-winning gaming systems, but the entire immersive gaming experience to a global fan base through major retailers worldwide, its online community portal (www.alienwarearena.com), and collaborations with gaming partners.

As part of the celebrations, Alienware will be hosting a roadshow event at Suntec City Mall on 29 April – 1 May. Consumers can look forward to a weekend of fun-filled activities including:

· The Season One Qualifier Finals of the League of Legends gaming tournament in partnership with Garena

· A charity auction hosted by Class 95 deejays Glenn Ong and Vernetta Lopez. All proceeds collected will be donated to ‘Operation Smile’

· A face-off gaming challenge with popular gaming blogger Sheylara

· Exclusive promotions on all Alienware products

About Dell

Dell Inc. (NASDAQ: DELL) listens to customers and delivers innovative technology and services that give them the power to do more. For more information, visit www.dell.com.sg.

LG’s CINEMA 3D technology and Smart TV: A Computer TV

2011-05-01T01:26:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] LG has just announced their 2011’s television line up and they are very focus on two points; 3D technology and Smart TV.

3D TV continues to be known for bad viewing angles and LG tries to remedy that with it’s Film Patterned Retarder (FPR) technology in LG’s CINEMA 3D TVs which brings about a more comfortable viewing experience. FPR is made to be different from the original 3D Active Shutter technology. But LG continues to make available 3D TVs with the Active Shutter technology and priced them below that of the FPR.

On the Smart TV’s end, we are looking at a computer TV where you to get the following, taken from the press release but I thought sums up just what LG’s Smart TV is about;

“LG will also be launching the LG App Store later this year where users can download lifestyle, entertainment and news applications. The LG Smart TV also comes with a web browser[7] so that consumers can surf the Internet while watching TV, without the use of a notebook. Additionally, LG’s Smart Share function allows users to wirelessly stream content from their PCs and other compatible devices for viewing on their television screen.

LG will be partnering with local content providers to launch premium content for consumers in Q3 this year.”

But what’s more interesting is LG’s Magic Motion Remote Control, which is bundled with some models only. This remote control actually works like Playstation Move! That allows you to point at the TV and select options on the menu and probably surf the net as well. LG didn’t just stop there; there will be a QWERTY keyboard application available on iOS and Android app store.

The recommended retail price is out together with it’s press release. And go to the end of the post (hit the “see rest of the post” link) for more pricing, specifications and promotion on the new LG TVs.

Model	Features	Availability	Suggested Retail Price
LW6500 (47”, 55” and 65”)	· Full HD LED Plus (except 65”) · LG CINEMA 3D · LG Smart TV	May 2011 65” in July 2011	65”: $9.999 55”: $4,999 47”: $3,499
LW5700 (42”, 47” and 55”)	· Full HD LED Plus · LG CINEMA 3D · LG Smart TV	May 2011	55”: $4,599 47”: $3,099 42”: $1,999
LV5500 (42” only)	· Full HD LED · LG Smart TV	May 2011	$1,699
LV3730 (32”, 37”, 42”, 47” and 55”)	· Full HD LED · LG Smart TV	May 2011	55”: $3,999 47”: $2,299 42”: $1,499 37”: $1,399 32”: $999
LV2130 (32”)	· LED model	May 2011	$799
PZ950 (60”)	· Full HD plasma equipped with 3D Active Shutter technology · LG Smart TV	May 2011	$3,999
PZ570 (50”)	· Full HD plasma equipped with 3D Active Shutter technology · LG Smart TV	May 2011	$2,299
PW450 (42” and 50”)	· HD ready plasma equipped with 3D Active Shutter technology	May 2011	50”: $1,899 42”: $1,299
PT250 (42” and 50”)	· HD ready plasma model	May 2011	50”: $1,299 42”: $799
LK450 (32” and 42”)	· Full HD LCD model	May 2011	42”: $1,049 32”: $699
LK330 (32”)	· HD ready LCD model	May 2011	$569

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LG ELECTRONICS UNVEILS NEXT GENERATION TELEVISIONS

FEATURING CINEMA 3D AND LG SMART TV

LG’s 2011 TV Lineup Promises to Transform the Way Consumers are Entertained

SINGAPORE, April 28 2011 -- LG Electronics, a global leader and technology innovator in flat panel displays and audio-video devices, today announced the launch of its 2011 TV range for the Singapore market, delivering cutting edge innovations that promise to transform the way consumers enjoy televisions at home. Featuring LG’s proprietary CINEMA 3D technology and LG Smart TV[1] functions, the new 2011 range will feature 11 series of LED, LCD and Plasma TVs to suit the entertainment needs of every individual, with more to be rolled out throughout the year.

Leading the lineup is the new LG LW6500, a Full HD edge LED CINEMA 3D TV equipped with LG Smart TV. The sleek TV brings 3D enjoyment to a new level with the employment of 3D technology similar to that used in cinemas, thus bringing to consumers greater comfort and convenience while enjoying their favourite 3D titles. With Smart TV, consumers are also able to access content and applications without hassle through a specially designed user interface as well as the new Magic Motion Remote Control[2] that simplifies control with a simple point and click.

“We are proud to be able to set new standards in the market with the launch of LG’s new CINEMA 3D TVs and LG Smart TVs,” said Mr. Arthur Huang, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, LG Electronics Singapore. “These new features will enhance the home entertainment experience for our consumers without compromising on visual quality for both 2D and 3D images. Along with upcoming Blu-ray players and home theatre systems equipped with the latest Smart technologies and advanced features, LG is set to cement its lead in the local market.”

LG CINEMA 3D TV – evolution of 3D for homes

Taking 3D to new heights, the LG CINEMA 3D TV looks set to greatly improve 3D experience for home viewers with crisper images and wider viewing angles that was not previously possible with active shutter technology. The use of Film Patterned Retarder (FPR) technology in LG’s CINEMA 3D TVs brings about a more comfortable viewing experience with a polorised plate on the panel, coupled with the use of polarised glasses by viewers. The technology optimises the separation of images for the left and right eye, and the images are then filtered through the glasses to give viewers a better 3D effect with minimal cross talk.

The new LG CINEMA 3D TV is also able to display brighter and clearer 3D pictures than conventional 3D displays with the inclusion of the new Light Boost technology. This brightness enhancement film maximises lighting from LED backlight to maintain the full brightness and picture quality of the original source. Compared to conventional 3D displays, the Light Boost technology is able to deliver brightness of 150 nits, twice of what conventional 3D TVs can deliver, without increasing power consumption. For the reproduction of smoother 3D images, TruMotion 200Hz[3] is featured on the flagship LG LW6500 series, which results in elimination of image blur and enables consumers to enjoy even the fastest action sequences in 3D. Consumers who are worried about the loss of image quality of high-definition content in 3D need not worry with the new LG CINEMA 3D range, as the new TVs are able to ensure no signal loss in Full HD 3D source with LG’s very own 3D picture enhancement algorithm.

A common challenge faced by consumers using active shutter 3D technology is the inflexible viewing positions and limited viewing angles. With LG’s CINEMA 3D TV, consumers can experience 3D images without restrictions on positions as the viewing angle has been increased to 180^o horizontally. Users may sit, lean or even lie comfortably on their couches to enjoy true-to-life 3D images, and up to 20 viewers are able to enjoy 3D on LG CINEMA 3D TVs[4].

For users who find discomfort in viewing 3D on active shutter models, LG’s CINEMA 3D technology delivers a virtually blur-free and flicker-free 3D picture, which reduces the possibility of dizziness or nausea. Also, LG’s CINEMA 3D TVs are the world’s first 3D TVs to be confirmed to deliver flicker free and crosstalk free images by TÜV and Intertek. The new LG CINEMA 3D TVs also employ the use of affordable, lightweight polarised glasses that weigh only 16 grams, almost half the weight of conventional active shutter glasses. These glasses do not need to be powered by batteries, helping consumers to save in the long run. Additionally, the LG LW6500 (LG 47LW6500) series with CINEMA 3D has been awarded with the CNET Asia Editor’s Choice Awards for delivering “one of the best 3D performances around”[5].

LG Smart TV - “Point, Click, Control, Simply Smarter”

Along with LG CINEMA 3D TVs, LG has also rolled out TVs equipped with LG Smart TV technologies. As consumers are growing to be more connected than ever before, LG Smart TVs brings the best of the Internet straight into televisions, so individuals can have access to a wealth of content with simple controls.

“LG understands that consumers are looking for a simple yet intuitive way to access their favourite content,” commented Mr. Huang. “The LG Smart TV focuses on delivering a simple yet comprehensive entertainment experience for homes, where every family member is able to enjoy and experience their favourite programs or applications with a few simple steps, making their TVs smarter than ever before.”

A simple dashboard is the gateway to the LG Smart TV experience. Users are able to have a quick glance of what is available on the Home Dashboard. Selecting their preferred content is as easy as the wave of the hand with the motion controlled Magic Motion Remote Control[6]. Users can simply point the remote at the screen, move the cursor to the desired option and then click to make their selection. An additional QWERTY keyboard application is available for download on Android smartphones or iPhone for consumers who prefer the convenience of controlling their TVs via their mobile phones.

Building upon the pioneering NetCast Entertainment Access offered last year, LG’s Smart TV platform provides access to endless entertainment options from providers including:

ESPN Star – The latest international sporting news from the most renowned sports portal direct to your TV
YouTube – Instantly streams millions of Web videos directly from the Internet.
CNBC - Leading broadcast news agency providing the latest on stock markets, business information and breaking news headlines
CNET – Low down on the newest consumer electronic products; featuring in-depth product reviews and product guides
UCTV.fm – Bringing an exciting mix of entertainment, celeb gossip and fresh music and great classics straight to your LG Smart TV
STUFF – Gadget reviews, technology news and latest technology trends – all from the leading premier technology publication internationally.
Autocar – The world’s oldest motoring publication providing the latest content for the motor fans
Google Maps^TM – Can’t find a location? Turn to Google Maps to find out exactly where it is
Accedo – Consumers can access Accedo’s leading library of TV apps which covers games, lifestyle, news and even communication service
Picasa^TM – View and edit your favourite photographs easily with Picasa
Facebook – Connect with your friends with the world’s most popular social utility portal
AccuWeather – Know the weather before you step out with AccuWeather, which provides not only local weather information but also international weather forecasts.
vTuner – Stream “live” Internet radio broadcasts from over the world straight from your TV
Viewster – On-demand movie distribution service for subscribers
Twitter – Tweet in 140 characters or less on the LG Home Dashboard to share your thoughts about what you are watching with your friends instantaneously
I-Play – Leading game developer with popular strategy game titles such as Cake Mania, Bubble Town and more for PC, mobile and now for TVs
MLB TV – For the latest in baseball, MLB TV brings every out-of-market game “live” to consumers

LG will also be launching the LG App Store later this year where users can download lifestyle, entertainment and news applications. The LG Smart TV also comes with a web browser[7] so that consumers can surf the Internet while watching TV, without the use of a notebook. Additionally, LG’s Smart Share function allows users to wirelessly stream content from their PCs and other compatible devices for viewing on their television screen.

LG will be partnering with local content providers to launch premium content for consumers in Q3 this year.

In addition to the LG LW6500 series, the following models will be available in Singapore (please refer to Factsheet for more information):

Model	Features	Availability	Suggested Retail Price
LW6500 (47”, 55” and 65”)	· Full HD LED Plus (except 65”) · LG CINEMA 3D · LG Smart TV	May 2011 65” in July 2011	65”: $9.999 55”: $4,999 47”: $3,499
LW5700 (42”, 47” and 55”)	· Full HD LED Plus · LG CINEMA 3D · LG Smart TV	May 2011	55”: $4,599 47”: $3,099 42”: $1,999
LV5500 (42” only)	· Full HD LED · LG Smart TV	May 2011	$1,699
LV3730 (32”, 37”, 42”, 47” and 55”)	· Full HD LED · LG Smart TV	May 2011	55”: $3,999 47”: $2,299 42”: $1,499 37”: $1,399 32”: $999
LV2130 (32”)	· LED model	May 2011	$799
PZ950 (60”)	· Full HD plasma equipped with 3D Active Shutter technology · LG Smart TV	May 2011	$3,999
PZ570 (50”)	· Full HD plasma equipped with 3D Active Shutter technology · LG Smart TV	May 2011	$2,299
PW450 (42” and 50”)	· HD ready plasma equipped with 3D Active Shutter technology	May 2011	50”: $1,899 42”: $1,299
PT250 (42” and 50”)	· HD ready plasma model	May 2011	50”: $1,299 42”: $799
LK450 (32” and 42”)	· Full HD LCD model	May 2011	42”: $1,049 32”: $699
LK330 (32”)	· HD ready LCD model	May 2011	$569

From 28 April 2011 to 29 May 2011, every purchase of a LG CINEMA 3D TV (LW6500 and LW5700) of above 42” will entitle consumers to four pairs of CINEMA 3D glasses, a Magic Motion Remote Control and a WiFi dongle.

For more information, visit:

· Corporate website: www.lg.com

· LG CINEMA 3D TV microsite: http://www.lg.com/sg/cinema3d

· LG Smart TV microsite: www.lg.com/sg/smarttv

· LG Home Entertainment Singapore Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lgsingapore

· Global YouTube page: http://www.whylg3dtv.com

[1] Selected models only

[2] Add-on accessory for selected models only

[3] Available only on 47” and 55” LW6500

[4] Dependent on layout and viewing distances

[5] Excerpt from CNET Asia review of LG 47LW6500 (47-inch LCD), 15 April 2011

[6] Additional accessory for selected LG Smart TV models

[7] Web browser to be available only in Q3 2011

FACTSHEET – LG Electronics Singapore Home Entertainment 2011 TV Lineup

· All information correct as of 28 April 2011

· Specifications and pricing are subjected to change

Model number	Features	Promotion (28 Apr – 20 June 2011)	RRP	General availability in Singapore
LW6500	· Equipped with CINEMA 3D and LG Smart TV · Full HD (1920 x 1080) edge LED Plus · Features 3D Light Boost for brighter 3D visuals (150 nits) · TruMotion 200Hz (47” & 55”); TruMotion 100Hz (65”) · 2D to 3D conversion · 9,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio (55”,47”); 5,000,000:1 dynamic Contrast ration (65”) · DLNA certified, WiFi enabled · Supports USB 2.0 (x2), HDMI (x4) · Awarded CNET Asia’s Editor’s Choice award in April 2011 · Available in 47”, 55” and 65”	· 4 pairs of Cinema 3D glasses · Magic Motion Remote Control · Wireless dongle	65”: $9.999 55”: $4,999 47”: $3,499	1^st week of May 65” variant to be available in July

Model number

Features

Promotion
(28 Apr – 20 June 2011)

RRP

General availability in Singapore

LW5700

· Equipped with CINEMA 3D and LG Smart TV

· Full HD (1920 x 1080) edge LED Plus

· Features 3D Light Boost for brighter 3D visuals (150 nits)

· TruMotion 100Hz

· Infinite 3D Surround sound for deeper

audio field

· 2D to 3D conversion

· 8,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio

· DLNA certified, WiFi enabled

· Supports USB 2.0 (x2), HDMI (x4)

· Available in 42”, 47” and 55”

· 4 pairs of Cinema 3D glasses

· Magic Motion Remote Control

· Wireless dongle

55”: $4,599

47”: $3,099

42”: $1,999

1^st week of May

Model number

Features

Promotion
(28 Apr – 20 June 2011)

RRP

General availability in Singapore

LV5500

· Equipped with LG Smart TV

· Full HD (1920 x 1080) edge LED

· 5,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio

· TruMotion 100Hz

· Infinite 3D Surround sound for deeper

audio field

· Supports USB 2.0 (x2), HDMI (x4)

· Available only in 42”

· Magic Motion Remote Control

· Wireless dongle

$1,699

1^st week of May

LV3730

· Equipped with LG Smart TV

· Full HD (1920 x 1080) edge-LED

· 4,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio

· Infinite 3D Surround sound for deeper

audio field

· Supports USB 2.0 (x1), HDMI (x3)

· Available in 32”, 37”, 42”, 47” and 55”

Promotion applicable only for 42”, 47” and 55” models:

· Magic Motion Remote Control

· OR Wireless dongle

55”: $3,999

47”: $2,299

42”: $1,499

37”: $1,399

32”: $999

1st week of May

Model number

Features

Promotion
(28 Apr – 20 June 2011)

RRP

General availability in Singapore

LV2130

· HD ready (1366 x 768) edge LED

· Supports USB 2.0 (x1), HDMI (x1)

· Available in 32”

N/A

$799

1st week of May

Promotion
(28 Apr – 20 June 2011)

PZ950

· Active shutter 3D TV equipped with LG Smart TV

· Full HD (1920 x 1080)

· Featuring LG’s 600Hz Sub-field Driving feature for smoother pictures and 3D XD Engine ® for accurate colour reproduction

· TruBlack filter for enhanced black levels

· 5,000,000: 1 contrast ratio

· DLNA and WiFi enabled

· Supports USB (x2), HDMI (x2)

· 2D to 3D conversion

· THX 3D and 2D display certification

· Infinite 3D Surround sound for deeper audio field

· Borderless appearance - bezel measuring just 1.18” wide and a depth of less than 2 inches

· Available only in 60”

· 2 pairs of 3D glasses

· Magic Motion Remote Control

· Wireless dongle

$3,999

1^st week of May

Promotion (28 Apr – 20 June 2011)		Promotion (28 Apr – 20 June 2011)
PZ570	· Active shutter 3D TV equipped with LG Smart TV · Full HD (1920 x 1080) · Featuring LG’s 600Hz Sub-field Driving feature for smoother pictures and 3D XD Engine ® for accurate colour reproduction · 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio · DLNA and Wi Fi enabled · DVR feature (digital only) · Infinite 3D Surround sound for deeper · audio field · 2D to 3D conversion · Supports USB (x2), HDMI (x1) · Available only in 50”	· 2 pairs of 3D glasses · Magic Motion Remote Control	$2,299	1st week of May
PW450	· 3D Plasma model on Active Shutter technology · HD ready (1024 x 768) · 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio · Featuring LG’s 600Hz Sub-field Driving feature for smoother pictures and 3D XD Engine ® for accurate colour reproduction · 2D to 3D conversion · Supports USB (x1), HDMI (x1) · Available in 42” and 50”	· 2 pairs of 3D glasses	50”: $1,899 42”: $1,299	1st week of May
Promotion (28 Apr – 20 June 2011)
PT250	· HD ready (1024 x 768) plasma model · Featuring LG’s 600Hz Sub-field Driving feature for smoother pictures · 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio · Supports USB (x1), HDMI (x1) · Available in 42” and 50”	N/A	50”: $1,299 42”: $799	1st week of May
LK450	· Full HD (1920 x 1080) LCD · 100,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio · Supports USB 2.0 (x1), HDMI (x1) · Features Smart Energy Saving Plus (Backlight control and Intelligent Sensor) · Available in 32” and 42”	N/A	42”: $1,049 32”: $699	1^st week of May

Model number

Features

Promotion
(28 Apr – 20 June 2011)

RRP

General availability in Singapore

LK330

· HD-ready (1366 x 768) LCD

· Supports USB (x1), HDMI (x1)

· Available in 32” only

N/A

$569

1^st week of May

Accessories list for 2011 LG TV

Accessories	RRP	General Availability	Accessories	RRP	General Availability
AG-F210 Basic CINEMA 3D glasses (pack of 2)	$20	May 2011	AG-S250 Active shutter 3D glasses	$180	May 2011
AG-F215 CINEMA 3D Glasses Party Pack (pack of 5)	$50	May 2011	AN-WF100 Wi-fi dongle	$80	May 2011
AG-F220 Clip-on CINEMA 3D glasses	$20	May 2011	AN-MR200 Magic Motion Remote Control	$120	May 2011
AG-F270 Limited edition Alain Mikli CINEMA 3D glasses	$400	May 2011	AN-VC300 Video call camera	$300	Q3 2011

Apple iPad 2 and White iPhone 4: Singapore Prices

2011-04-27T23:38:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] Probably the best known gadgets in the world. Now with price drop across all models. And a white iPhone mysteriously appearing tomorrow for the same prices as their brother in black.

iPad 2 WiFi model

16GB - S$668
32GB - S$798
64GB - S$928

iPad 2 WiFi + 3G model

16GB - S$848
32GB - S$978
64GB - S$1,108

Link – imerlion.com
Link – Apple iPad 2 Review from Engadget
Picture Source – www.thefatlossauthority.com

HTC Flyer: Handwriting on Tablet

2011-04-27T22:28:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] Elections are probably the hottest event in Singapore now, but the tablets’ competition is not far behind! On the April 29th, the iPad 2 will be officially on sale in Singapore and in May, comes HTC Flyer, the latest 7” Android tablet from the Taiwanese manufacturers. There are lot’s of difference between HTC Flyer and their recent competitors.

First off, the display; the only other 7” tablet in the market is Samsung Galaxy Tab. Next, HTC Flyer comes with a stylus for writing, but it customize to be used within certain apps such as Evernote for noting taking.

Third, HTC Flyer does not come with the latest line of dual-core processor. You get a single core 1.5GHz processor instead. Slower performance, maybe but specifications aren’t everything. The last major difference comes from the OS. HTC Flyer ships with v2.3 instead of v3.0 like Motorola Xoom or Acer ICONIA Tab.

And oh! HTC Flyer ships with HTC Sense, it’s user interface over the default Android interface. Gotta say, I like HTC Sense (also on other HTC phones) a lot and is looking forward to see it on a larger display.

HTC Flyer will be available through mobile operators and authorized retailers at a suggested retail price of S$1068 from May 2011 onwards.

Specifications:

7” display, 1024 X 600 resolution
1.5 GHz processor
Android Gingerbread with HTC Sense, upgradable to Honeycomb
1GB ram with 32GB of internal storage
MicroSD Slot
WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth, GPS
195.4mm x 122mm x 13.2mm / 420g
HTC Scribe Technology

Link – Techielobang at HTC Flyer Launch Event in Singapore
Link – HTC Sense Page

Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270

2011-04-26T23:44:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] This is probably the most boring gadget to cover, but wait flip the coin around and you see a new perspective. How about a really decent price (consider this brand, Logitech) and standard features you expect from a wireless keyboard? You got a wireless keyboard suitable for almost anyone looking to upgrade!

The Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270 is now available for a suggested retail price of S$32.

Specifications:

2.4GHz Wireless Connectivity (10m distance)
24 months of battery life
Tiny Logitech Unifying receiver

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[PRESS RELEASE]

New Logitech Wireless Keyboard Offers Reliable Wireless Wherever You Use Your Keyboard

Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270 Features Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz Wireless Connectivity, Up to Two Years Battery Life

SINGAPORE — April 26, 2011— Today Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) introduces the Logitech^® Wireless Keyboard K270, a sleek keyboard that delivers Logitech^® Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity and up to 2 years of battery life — giving you the convenience of wireless with the reliability of a cord wherever you use your keyboard.

“The Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270 combines some of our most requested features, with the comfort and familiarity of a full size layout,” said Prasenjit Sarkar, South Asia Director, Logitech. “From our tiny Unifying receiver to the convenient media keys, the Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270 is a great choice.”

With Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, you’ll enjoy virtually no signal loss from up to 10 meters away (wireless range may vary due to environmental and computing conditions.) And to virtually eliminate the hassle of changing batteries, the Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270 delivers up to 24 months of battery life as well as auto-standby, which helps you save energy when you’re not using the keyboard.

The Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270 also features the tiny Logitech Unifying receiver, which is small enough to stay in your laptop. Plus, you can easily add another compatible mouse or keyboard — without the hassle of multiple USB receivers.

The sleek, compact keyboard saves you space without sacrificing comfort thanks to full-size keys and a wide-curved space bar. And Logitech’s newest keyboard offers hot keys that give you instant access to your favorite websites, e-mail, play/pause, volume and more.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270 is now available for a suggested retail price of S$32. To find out more about the Logitech Wireless Keyboard K270, please visit www.logitech.com.sg.

About Logitech

# # #

Sony Ericsson Arc: Sexy Sexy!

2011-04-25T02:33:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] April is like an Android month. Besides the release on the high profile Motorola Xoom and Acer ICONIA TAB A500, there are also HTC Incredible S, HTC Desire S and Sony Ericsson Xperia Play. ALL featuring either Android OS, v2.2 or v2.3.

Sony Ericsson Arc is the latest in the long line. And a very strong contender in the field given it’s 4.2” display which is bigger than all other Android smartphone offering currently in the market. And it’s said to be powered by the Sony Mobile BRAIVA Engine (BRAIVA is Sony’s series of LED or LCD Tvs) with enhanced contrast, richer colours and bright screen even under the sun!

Once again, specifications and technology should be proven via a real check on the handset and probably comparison with you know what else.

All stuff on the Arc is pretty standard as per a top range Android handset. It is obviously it’s eye catching exterior that is sell-factor. In my book at least, Sony Ericsson Arc has gotta be the sexiest phone money can buy now.

Sony Ericsson Arc is currently going for S$448 on SingTel Shop. Meanwhile an agent set with Mobile Square is going for S$800. (link) SE Arc comes with the black and silver version.

Specifications

4.2” LED-backlit LCD, capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors, 480 x 854 pixels
Display powered by Sony Mobile BRAVIA Engine
1GHz Qualcomm MSM8255 processor and Adreno 205 graphics
Android OS, v2.3
8 megapixel Exmor R image sensor, 3264x2448 pixels, autofocus, LED flash
512MB of RAM, 320 MB storage
HSDPA, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA, Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth
MicroSD Storage
HDMI Output
1500mAh battery
125 x 63 x 8.7 mm / 117g

Link – Engadget Sony Ericsson Arc Review
Link – More Sony Ericsson Arc Reviews

Phone x Phone iPhone Corded Dock: Rolling Back Technology

2011-04-24T15:06:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] Didn’t expect to see this gem walking around in Takashimaya. How about making your iPhone desk bound and enjoys the luxury of phone calls with a corded phone?

This gadget from Japan costs S$49 at the Japanese shopping mall and apparently you can also get it at box-rental shops (those kind where you rent a display box within the shop to sell your stuff).

From the product page, I gather it will fit both iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4. So time to make your iPhone even better.

Link – Newlaunches.com report
Link – Product page in Korean

HTC Incredible S and HTC Desire S: Android Rush from HTC!

2011-04-23T12:38:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] The past two months saw HTC officially selling two very similar phones, mainly the specifications. Consumers get more choices or … confusion?

It is not an obvious case of a mid-range phone against a high-end one though it is suppose to be one I guess. Even the price points isn’t enough the separate the two handsets.

HTC Desire S is retailing for S$688 / S$348 with basic 2 year plan and HTC Incredible for S$848 / S$448 with basic 2 year plan , prices quoting from M1.

Perhaps reviews will give you a better idea…

Link – HTC Desire S, Slashgear review
Link – HTC Incredible S, Slashgear review

Specifications:

Desire is installed with Android OS, v2.3 while Incredible features Android OS, v2.2 (Froyo)
Both feature Super LCD capacitive touchscreen with 480 x 800 resolution. Incredible comes with a 4” display compared to Desire’s 3.7”
Desire’s 5 MP, 2592 x 1944 pixels, autofocus, LED flash vs. Incredible’s 8 MP, 3264x2448 pixels, autofocus, dual-LED flash
Desire’s 115 x 59.8 x 11.6 mm / 130g vs. Incredible’s 120 x 64 x 11.7 mm / 135.5g. Nearly identical.
Both support 1.1 GB of ROM internal memory and 768 MB of RAM, with supporting Micro SD cards up to 32 GB.
Both phones use 1 GHz Scorpion processor based on the Qualcomm MSM8255 Snapdragon chipset.
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and HSDPA
FM Radio
Battery, Li-Ion 1450 mAh

Lenovo Ideapad Y460P, Y570, U160 and U260: April-May 2011 Prices

2011-04-22T00:29:00.001+08:00

[GADGET DEAL] Lenovo notebooks is on some good prices from 13 April to 3 May 2011. New versions of Ideapad Y460P, Y570, U160 and U260 notebooks are all included.

The thing is several shops in Funan confirmed that relatively powerful yet economical IdeaPad Y570 is not stock up at the moment. Stocks are expected to be available at the end of the month to next month.

Click the link below to see the full picture.

Link – www.Singapore-Promotions.com poster

Acer ICONIA Tab A500: 5 mins with the Acer Tablet

2011-04-22T00:07:00.001+08:00

[HANDS-ON] Pop by Harvey Norman today and saw the Acer ICONIA Tab A500! Check out my first post on Acer ICONIA Tab for more information and specifications (link).

My overall 5 mins experience is really good, surprisingly good in fact. Even my friend whom was with burped “slick” when he saw this very new product from Acer. I guess the fine build quality, a conventional design and a bright, sharp and wide viewing angle display screen should please most people on the first sight.

It wasn’t heavy too. Especially when I consider the weight of the 1st generation iPad which I pick up almost everyday. But it does feels thicker and rounder. My thought revolve along the line of the Acer ICONIA Tab less like a regular ebook reader than the iPad.

But the highlight for me is Honeycomb, Android 3.0. It is fast, responsive and modern. Makes the Android 2.X versions’ interface look like beta product. It remains to be tested if the words “fast” and “responsive” holds in the long run though.

On a last note, Acer ICONIA Tab looks extremely capable and solid. A definite alternative to iPad base on my 5 minutes with it. But will it sell? A S$799 price tag do put this question in doubt.

Bumper: When I tried to play the game “Super Jump 2”. It just dawns on me that like iPhone and iPad, not all the apps in the Android Marketplace are scaled for the screen size of smartphones (less than or about 4”) and tablets (more than 7”)

Motorola Xoom WiFi: Tablets gather pace!

2011-04-20T12:23:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] Motorola has chosen Singapore as the first country in Southeast Asia to launch the Motorola Xoom WiFi. And this latest gadget from Motorola will feature specifications that are similar to the rest of it’s Android tablets competitors; namely NVIDIA’s Tegra dual core processor and Android 3.0. But for anyone who prefers a native 3G connection on the tablet itself, will be disappointed.

Meanwhile check our post on the Acer ICONIA Tab for a video introducing Android Honeycomb as a OS designed specifically for tablets. (Link)

Honestly, there is very little to choose between the Xoom or ICONIA in terms of specifications. Show me the hands-on experience!

Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi will be available at Challenger, Courts, Newstead, Best Denki, Harvey Norman and Mustafa from April 22, 2011 at a recommended retail price of S$888.00.

Specifications:

NVIDIA’s Tegra 1Ghz dual-core processor
1GB of DDR2 RAM and 32GB of integrated storage
Android 3.0 (Honeycomb)
249.1mm x 167.8mm x 12.9mm
10.1” 1280x800 resolution WXGA panel
WiFi b/g/n
5MP rear-facing camera with dual LED flash/2MP front-facing camera
HDMI Connectivity

Link – Slashgear’s review

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[PRESS RELEASE]

Motorola Mobility Brings Motorola XOOM™ Wi-Fi to Singapore

SINGAPORE – April 20, 2011 – Motorola Mobility today announced that the highly-anticipated Motorola XOOM™ Wi-Fi will launch in Singapore on April 22, 2011. Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi runs on the Android™ 3.0 (Honeycomb) platform designed specifically for tablets. Singapore becomes the first market in Southeast Asia to launch the tablet.

Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi features a 1GHz dual-core processor, 32 GB of memory and 1GB of RAM, front-facing and rear-facing cameras, true multi-tasking functionality, and the latest Google™ Mobile services on a10.1-inch widescreen HD display.

“Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi re-defines what the tablet experience should be,” saidSpiros Nikolakopoulos, vice president and general manager, International Distribution Markets, Motorola Mobility. “Designed from the ground up with the user in mind, it provides more ways to have fun, connect with friends and stay productive while on the go. Whether surfing the Web, watching the latest hit movie as it was intended or video-chatting with friends, Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi will delight customers with its ease of use, speed and vivid graphics, as well as its Motorola Smart Accessories.”

Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi features – a new mobile experience

Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi delivers exceptionally fast performance with its 1 GHz dual-core processor and 1GB of RAM. The tablet showcases the innovations of the Honeycomb user experience – including widgets, true multi-tasking, tabbed browsing, notifications and customization – on a 10.1-inch widescreen HD display with 1280X800 resolution enabling video content that’s richer and clearer than ever before. Support for HDMI enables viewing of videos and movies on larger screens, such as HD televisions. A 5 MP rear-facing camera captures HD video, and a 2 MP front-facing camera enables clear video chats using Google Talk™.

The latest Google Mobile services include Google Maps 5.0™ with 3D interaction and access to more than 150,000 apps from Android Market™. Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi also supports a beta version of Adobe® Flash® Player 10.2 downloadable from Android Market, enabling the delivery of rich Flash-based web content including videos, games and rich Internet applications. The tablet also features a built-in gyroscope, barometer, e-compass, accelerometer and adaptive lighting. It supports up to 10 hours of video playback, and charges in half the time of competitive tablets on the market.

Motorola Smart Accessories

· A Standard Dock for watching video content or listening to music through external speakers as the device charges

· A Speaker HD Dock for sending HD content directly to a TV or clearly listening to music through two built-in speakers without attaching external speakers

· A custom Bluetooth^® wireless keyboard with special Android shortcut keys.

Availability

Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi will be available at Challenger, Courts, Newstead, Best Denki, Harvey Norman and Mustafa from April 22, 2011 at a recommended retail price of S$888.00.

About Motorola Mobility

Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE:MMI) fuses innovative technology with human insights to create experiences that simplify, connect and enrich people's lives. Our portfolio includes converged mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets; wireless accessories; end-to-end video and data delivery; and management solutions, including set-tops and data-access devices. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.

Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY: First Playstation Certified Android Smartphone

2011-04-19T22:11:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] The biggest selling point of Sony Ericsson Xperia Play is it’s ability to play Sony Playstation One’s title. This is the first time Sony Playstation’s titles are played on anywhere else apart from their console.

One of the latest Android phones (with OS version 2.3), but Xperia Play’s gaming ability is unveiled in the era of casual gaming, dominated by the iPhone. Therefore, it’s impressiveness is probably not so positive. More so when the Playstation titles involved are really made like 10 years ago.

But on the other hand, the Playstation fans might just disagree…

Sony Ericsson Xperia Play is going for S$548 with a two year SingTel plan.

Specifications:

1GHz Scorpion processor, Adreno 205 GPU, Qualcomm MSM8255 Snapdragon
119 x 62 x 16mm / 175g
4” LED-backlit LCD, capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors, 480 x 854 pixels
Internal memory 400 MB, 512 MB RAM
MicroSD card slot
HSDPA
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA, Wi-Fi hotspot
5 MP, 2592х1944 pixels, autofocus, LED flash
Android OS, v2.3 (Gingerbread)
SNS integration
Standard battery, Li-Ion 1500 mAh

Link – Engadget’s Xperia Play Review

Windows Phone 7: SingTel Price Cut!

2011-04-18T15:23:00.001+08:00

[HAPPENING] It’s surprising that it took this long. But it happened nevertheless. A price cut for Windows Phone 7’s phones in Singapore.

I am not sure how long since it happened but I was browsing the SingTel online store today when I saw the prices of HTC HD7, LG Optimus 7 and Samsung Omina 7 lowered to the range of S$98 to S$198 with a two year contract.

This range of phones are previously priced at around S$398 and above.

Just like the global trend, the newest phone OS from Microsoft are behind iOS and Android in the popularity contest, and thus lowering the prices is a bid to sell more sets.

Do Windows Phone 7 stands a chance? I am not sure but I am sure it needs to get What’s Apps on it ASAP. And if you haven’t seen it’s interface, time to.

Acer ICONIA TAB A500: First of the MANY

2011-04-17T17:38:00.001+08:00

[NEW GADGET] Not the first Android tablet in Singapore but I think it’s the first “Honeycomb” one, Android 3.0 has arrived! The famous Android tablet in Singapore is the Samsung Galaxy Tab but Acer ICONIA Tab and possibly the future Android tablets will be a different preposition.

Because Acer ICONIA Tab (what a name) is associated two tablet-related buzzword; Honeycomb and dual core processor. Android 3.0, known as Honeycomb, is built for tablets and has a improved modern interface, browser and makes better use of the screen estate.

And then the dual core processor promises to see less lag in the whole Android experience.

Acer ICONIA Tab is on sale for S$799 now. And more tablets set to follow, Apple iPad 2, Blackberry Playbook… wo la la…

Specifications:

dual-core NVIDIA® Tegra™ 2
1GB RAM, 32GB eMMC
NVIDIA® GeForce® GPU with Flash 10.1 support
10.1” WXGA capacitive multi-touch
Android 3.0 “Honeycomb”
HDMI port, 1080p Output
MicroSD Slot
WiFi, Bluetooth
13.3mm thick
5MP rear-facing camera with auto focus plus 2MP front-facing camera

Link – Acer Iconia Tab A500 Page
Link – Poster at www.Singapore-Promotions.com

Update 20 April 2011: The current model doesn’t seem to include 3G sim card slot capability. Just to be clear since it’s not mentioned anywhere in the post.

Update 21 April 2011: Play with the ICONIA Tab A500 for a while at Harvey Norman. The salesman confirm that this version does not come with 3G sim card capability, he said “next version is probable though”. Check out my HANDS-ON post (link)!