See Also : Samsung Galaxy S4 Goes On Sale in Malaysia

Recently, Samsung even announced that they’re about to reach 10 million of the S4 sold globally in less than a month. That’s impressive considering the previous Samsung Galaxy S3 hit those numbers in 54 days, a little shy of 2 months. The Samsung Galaxy S4 is now officially the fastest selling phone in the Samsung line up…. ever.

Samsung Galaxy S4

After the moving launch event that was held in tandem with the major telcos starting with Celcom, then to DiGi, Maxis and U Mobile, ending with a consumer event at Low Yat Plaza on 27 April 2013, Samsung Malaysia just announced a series of nationwide roadshow. During these roadshows, consumers who purchase the device can walk away with some freebies and accessories.

The nationwide roadshow has started since last Thursday, 16 May 2013 and will run until 21 July 2013 at these locations:-

• Suria KLCC, Centre Court, 16 May – 22 May 2013
• Berjaya Megamall, Kuantan, Melor Concourse, 31 May – 2 June 2013
• Plaza Low Yat, Centre Court, 10 June – 16 June 2013
• 1st Avenue, Penang, Main Atrium, 28 June – 30 June 2013
• Plaza Merdeka, Kuching, Level UG2, 5 July – 7 July 2013
• Centre Point Mall, Kota Kinabalu, Level G-U2, 19 July – 21 July 2013

What freebies will you get? Well, if you purchase the Samsung Galaxy S4 (RRP of RM 2,199) at the roadshow, the first 100 customers will get a FREE Samsung Galaxy S4 Flip Cover worth RM 99 each day.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Flip Cover

You can also purchase other Samsung devices like Samsung Galaxy Note 8.8, Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1, Samsung Galaxy Note II or Samsung Galaxy Camera and get these offers:-

• The first ten customers to purchase any of these devices will receive a free Samsung Bluetooth headset worth RM129. 
• The following ten customers to purchase any of these devices will receive a free Samsung car charger worth RM69.

Remember, you can only get these offers at the roadshow locations, not at the telcos or other retailers. So, make sure you check out these locations.

I was there at the Suria KLCC roadshow, and there are demo stations and showcase of the devices and accessories for you to check out. Of course, loads of Samsung staff around to help you with any enquiries you might have. Let me know if you’ve been there, or planning to check out the roadshow at other locations.

For more information, be sure to check out Samsung’s website at http://www.samsung.com/my or visit the Samsung Mobile Malaysia Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/samsungmobilemalaysia

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3. Samsung Galaxy Note First Impression

See Also : HTC One Announced and What The Tech Sites Are Saying

It took over 2 months since the global announcement in February 2013 which happened simultaneously in New York and London. Check out my coverage along with first impressions from other major tech sites here. I have been waiting patiently for the phone to hit the local shores and I was super excited to attend the HTC One launch in Malaysia, that I skipped the Microsoft Surface RT Malaysian launch happening on the same day.

My mugshot at the door of the HTC One Launch

Introducing the HTC One

Models holding the new HTC One

As usual with launch events, there were some demo stations setup with HTC staff members showcasing the beautiful all metal unibody design of the HTC One. In case you missed it, here’s a brief specification of the HTC One:-

• 4.7″ Super LCD3 1080p Full HD display (1920 X 1080)(468 ppi)
• 1.7 GHz quad core Snapdragon 600 processor
• 32/64 GB internal storage (no expandable microSD, FREE 25GB Dropbox cloud storage) + 2 GB RAM
• Powered by latest Android Jelly Bean (with new HTC Sense 5)
• 4 megapixel HTC Ultrapixel camera, 2.1 megapixel front facing camera (1080p Full HD front & rear camera video recording)
• 9.3 mm thin, weighing only 143 grams
• 2,300 mAH non-removable battery
• Connectivity : WiFi, HSPA+ / LTE, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, NFC
• Available in Glacial Silver and Stealth Black

For more information, tech specs and features of the HTC One, please check out the official HTC One SEA Product Page  at http://www.htc.com/sea/smartphones/htc-one/ or HTC Malaysia’s Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/HTCMalaysia

The HTC One with it’s zero gap construction of the all metal unibody of the HTC One Android superphone is a gorgeous phone. It feels so premium and luxurious in my hands. I absolutely love the revised HTC Sense 5 user interface. HTC has indeed done a great job improving the navigation and look of the phone.

The gorgeous HTC One on display

MWC 2013 dubbed the HTC One as the Best Smartphone of the Year

HTC Malaysia took the opportunity during the launch to remind us that the HTC One is named “The Best New Mobile Handset, Device or Tablet” by Mobile World Congress (MWC) for 2013. That’s not it as well, because a number of major tech sites seems to think that this phone is the Best Android Smartphone of the Year as well. Better than the Samsung Galaxy S4.

HTC One touts some great new features with the new superphone, which includes:-

• HTC Sense 5 – The new user interface (skin/theme) powered by Android 4.1 Jelly Bean OS (not the latest Android Jelly Bean 4.2 OS)
• HTC Blink Feed – new home screen with Flipboard-like interface of grids to show you the latest news and updates from major news sites and your social networks (Facebook, Twitter, etc)
• Ultrapixel camera with HTC Zoe  - A new camera lens technology that takes much better pictures in low light conditions and much sharper images. It”s not about the megapixels, but more about the picture quality. HTC Zoe allows you to take pictures and videos and stitch them into a 30 seconds highlight movie clip.
• HTC BoomSound – Instead of speakers at the back of the phone, HTC One has 2 stereo speakers in the front of the device. With beats Audio Technology, the sound quality is crisp, loud and clear.
• HTC Sense TV – The Power On/Off button is also an Infrared Blaster, which means you can pair your phone with your TV (any TV) to let you use your HTC One as a remote control  for your TV. This includes flipping channels and managing reminders, etc for  TV programs (including local Astro channels).
• Zero gap metal unibody design – All metal design with a non-removable battery, with 4G / LTE enabled, gorgeous display with 468 ppi resolution (highest screen resolution in the market today).

Check out this First Look video from  HTC’s official YouTube channel.

Also check out the gallery below for some highlights on these features of the HTC One:-

I can’t tell you how much I love the hardware of the HTC One. To get an opportunity to touch it in person and play around with the new HTC Sense 5 user interface, I absolutely love the device and can’t wait to own one!

Hardware overview of the HTC One

The HTC One feels good in my hands and I am once again impressed with HTC’s build quality n all their smartphones over the years. This is very reminiscent of the old HTC Legend metal body design.

For your pleasure, here’s a gallery of images from HTC Malaysia of the HTC One press images, event pictures as well as some lifestyle pictures:-

Pricing and Availability

During the event, HTC Malaysia informed us that the HTC One will be available with 4 major telcos (Celcom, Maxis, DiGi and U Mobile) and SenQ starting early May 2013. HTC’s authorised retailers will have their stocks ready for outright purchase from mid May 2013.

HTC Malaysia executives and local Telco partners launched the HTC One in Malaysia

And finally, the wait is over. If you’re as excited as me, then you’ll be glad to hear that the HTC One is finally available for sale in Malaysia!

The HTC One is on sale at the Recommended Retail Price (RRP) of RM 2,299 for the 32GB version and RM 2,499 for the 64GB version with authorised HTC dealers and distributors or discounted with local telco plans.

What disappointed me is that the availability of the smartphone happened quite sporadically, where DiGi started their sale in the week of 6 May 2013, followed by Celcom, then Maxis’ plans announced only last week on late Wednesday night of 15 May 2013, along with HTC Malaysia’s dealers and distributors.

DiGi – HTC One plans from RM 1,269

DiGi – HTC One plans HERE

Check out DiGi’s HTC One plans at http://www.digi.com.my/PhonesDevices/HTC_One.do

Celcom – HTC One plans from RM 1,428

Celcom – HTC One plans HERE

Check out Celcom’s HTC One plans at http://www.celcom.com.my/devices/smartphones/android/htc-one.php

Maxis – HTC One plans from RM 1,299

Maxis – HTC One plans HERE

Check out Maxis’ HTC One plans at http://new.maxis.com.my/content/maxis/en/personal/devices/all-phones/htc/htc-one.html?

U Mobile – HTC One plans from RM 1,488

U Mobile – HTC One plans HERE

Check out Maxis’ HTC One plans at http://www.u.com.my/phone-deals/htc-one

I bought the HTC One!!!

As impressed I am with the HTC One smartphone, I have to state my disappointment with HTC Malaysia for the stock and availability of the smartphone here as well as the communication of the availability from the local telcos.

Yes, there is a seriously limited number of stocks for the HTC One here in Malaysia. After multiple enquiries with my telco as well as on LowYat.net forum’s official HTC One thread, I finally rushed over to Maxis KLCC to get my hands on the HTC One early in the morning last Thursday. Shortly later in the afternoon, I was informed that the centre has sold out on their stock!

Apparently, there’s only the Glacial Silver, 32 GB version available in the market today through the operators or dealers. There are very limited number of the Stealth Black version of the same storage. It’s hard to find, so I suggest you call your telco centre or retailer before you make the trip there. Based on my sources, the 64GB version will only be available either next week or end of the month. It’s very uncertain for now. Batches of shipments are slowly rolling in weekly, very slowly.

It seems it”s a general global shortage of the HTC One everywhere in the world. HTC had some issues with their Ultrapixel manufacturer. Good news though, HTC announced that they’re increasing production to meet strong demand of the smartphone.

HTC One packaging ready for unboxing

I am very very happy and excited to play with my HTC One. Are you excited about the availability and getting ONE (pun intended) for yourself? Stay tuned for my next post where I will share with you my unboxing and first impressions of the HTC One!!!

Related posts:

1. BlackBerry Q10 keyboard-touchscreen hybrid Launched in Malaysia (Update: On Sale NOW)
2. Samsung Galaxy S4 goes on sale in Malaysia
3. HTC One S Launched in Malaysia

Richard Branson & Tony Fernandes’ F1 bet (Image Source : RichardsF1.com)

It’s more than 2 years since that bet, and the time is here.

(Image Source : AirAsia Facebook Page)

Richard Branson was supposed to serve on the longer haul London to Kuala Lumpur route, but as you know, AirAsia X has since cancelled that route. So, yesterday, on 12 May 2013, Richard Branson got his legs shaved, put on a full make up with lipstick and false eyelashes and dressed up in a custom made AirAsia X Flight Attendant’s uniform for a flight from Perth, Australia to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

I think this is all really funny and a showcase of both billionaires being such great sports. Both eccentric bosses have always been fun, down-to-earth and known for their awesome sense of humour.

I’ve also been sharing some pictures and videos on Facebook and Twitter. In case you missed them, here’s a collection of my favourite moments.

It started with a shave (Image Source : The Malaysian Insider)

Our man, Branson sat down in his tightey-whiteys for the world’s press to watch, as his legs were being shaved. Note the beer in hand. Hahaha. Yeah – I guess it’s understandable to need a drink in a moment like this!

The only thing that he apparently insisted is not to shave his beard.

He got his face all made up, with red lipstick, blue eyeshadows and false eyelashes, too. Pretty…

The prettiest Flight Attendant ever!!! (Image Source : Airliners.net)

Today we learn Richard Branson will never has a second career as a lady boy in Phuket

— Effi Obefiend (@1Obefiend) May 12, 2013

Full garb in AirAsia red uniform, and fishnet stockings, summore. (Image Source : Daily Mail)

Branson is required to do the full set of duties as per any AirAsia Flight Attendant in the almost 6-hour long flight. This includes doing the Safety Briefing demonstration, along with the other (proper) Flight Attendants. Watch this hilarious video of his clumsy demonstration, thanks to Azran Osman-Rani, CEO of AirAsia X.

Our pretty Flight Attendant has to serve drinks and everything…

Juices from the prettiest Cabin Crew? (Image Source : BBC)

Of course, with Tony sitting right in the front in his VVIP seat…

Richard Branson serving Tony Fernandes with his “kangkang” legs. (Image Source : AirAsia Facebook Page)

Includes spoon feeding, too (Image Source : AirAsia Facebook Page)

For the fun, Richard Branson “accidentally” spilled the tray of drinks on Tony Fernandes.

Richard Branson spills drinks all over Tony Fernandes (Image Source : Jenson Button Fan Facebook Page)

All these, as good a publicity stunt, and billionaires honouring their side bets, was actually a charity flight. According to The Star, they raised over RM 600,000 (AUD$ 200,000) to Starlight Children’s Foundation in Australia, for ill children.

When they landed in LCCT in Kuala Lumpur, they was quite a procession awaiting the 2 tycoons and they ended it with a bit of a Press Conference.

Landed in LCCT (Image Source : AirAsia Facebook Page)

Wash off with champagne (Image Source : Daily Mail)

Strong also, huh, this Tony… (Image Source : Getty Images)

Then, both bosses kissed, made up, and likely started planning their next bet…

Tony and Richard sitting in a tree (Image Source : SG Yahoo News)

Happy bosses (Image Source : Daily Mail)

This news gives me a tingly, fuzzy feeling to see how 2 billionaires can still let loose and have fun. It’s all for fun, and they managed to raise money while at it. Well done!

What do you think? Pretty or not?

(Image Source : ABNXcess)

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See Previous Post : CNET Asia Tech Factor BlackBerry Z10 Review #1

See the first review : (CNET Asia) BlackBerry Z10 : The “Make It or Break It” smartphone from  BlackBerry

In case you don’t know, I am a part of the CNET Asia Tech Factor program, where their readers from around Asia gets to review a gadget for a month on their site. The blogger / writer stand a chance to win that said gadget along with other prizes. I have been chosen to represent Malaysia for this month’s review of the BlackBerry Z10.

Additionally, readers can participate, too. Read, comment and share the article, if you like it. At the end of the month, I am gathering people who are willing to be interviewed on video (by me) about the features and usage of smartphone in your life. It helps if you’re a BlackBerry lover. Better yet, if you’re a BlackBerry Z10 user! For your effort, you’ll get a token gadget courtesy of CNET Asia.

BlackBerry Z10 Review by Winnie Chen #1

Last week, my first review post, I covered the unboxing of the BlackBerry Z10, along with a hardware overview of the phone and my first impression.

CNET Asia Tech Factor – BlackBerry Z10 Review #2

This week’s post, I cover how the phone fares for me at work as a productivity phone. For emails, for contacts and calendar management, note taking and file syncing.

Check out my post : No-nonsense Productivity At Its Best With BlackBerry Z10

As usual, you can help me, if you like  the article, to comment on the page, *LIKE* it with your Facebook login at the page, and share it with everyone you know. Also, if you’re up for being interviewed at the end of the month, drop me a comment here below.

Don’t forget to read this : No-nonsense Productivity At Its Best With BlackBerry Z10

Next week’s post, I will cover the phone as a “Play” phone, with emphasis on the keyboard, app store and browser. See ya then!

SHARE. SHARE. SHARE.

Related posts:

1. CNET Asia Tech Factor BlackBerry Z10 Review #1
2. All Touch Blackberry Z10 Launches in Malaysia
3. Featured on CNet Asia

The event was held at The Bee in Publika and I attended the last session of the day at 7.30pm which was the Online and Bloggers session.

BlackBerry Q10 Launch Event in Malaysia

Giant BlackBerry Q10 mockup

The venue was decorated minimally, but with enough branding elements to showcase the BlackBerry experience, with special attention to showcasing the new BlackBerry 10 OS.

Lots of “10″ lettering around the venue

Showcase of BlackBerry phones over the years

Some old BlackBerry phones that brings me back in time

Even the seating benches were actually BlackBerry keyboard

Introducing the BlackBerry Q10

BlackBerry Q10 in hands

For most BlackBerry lovers, this is the smartphone that they’ve been waiting for from BlackBerry, as it incorporates the best of the much loved BlackBerry hardware keyboard with the gesture friendly touchscreen interface of the new redesigned OS.

Here’s a quick specifications overview of the BlackBerry Q10:-

• 3.1″ AMOLED touchscreen display (720 X 720)(330 ppi) with QWERTY keyboard
• 1.5 GHz dual core processor
• 16 GB internal storage (expandable up to 32 GB microSD) + 2 GB RAM
• Powered by new Blackberry 10 OS
• 8 megapixel auto focus rear camera (1080p HD video recording), 2 megapixel front facing camera (720p video recording)
• 2,100 mAH removable battery (up to 13.5 hours 3G talktime)
• Connectivity : HSPA+/4G LTE, micro HDMI out

For more information and features list, check out BlackBerry Q10 Product Page HERE.

Let’s have a quick look around the hardware of the device.

The highly anticipated keyboard and touchscreen BlackBerry Q10

BlackBerry makes a lot of emphasis that the keyboard on the device has been improved. All keys are the same size and has been optimised for improved typing. It was weird at first,  to get used to hardware keyboard after not owning a BlackBerry for awhile. But it doesn’t take long to remember how much I (and I’m sure a lot of you) loved the BlackBerry keyboard experience.

As you can see, there’s no more optical trackpad above the keys. That’s because the screen is now a touchscreen. You can navigate with different gestures and swipe actions with the new BlackBerry 10 OS.

See Also : CNET Asia : BlackBerry Z10 – The “Make It or Break It” smartphone from BlackBerry

See Also : CNET Asia : No-nonsense Productivity At Its Best With BlackBerry Z10

BlackBerry Q10 – Front and Back hardware

The device fits nicely in my hands, almost the same size as the bigger BlackBerry Bold series. The backing was a nice weave design, which, like the BlackBerry Z10 creates a nice non-slip texture that sits comfortably in my hands.

I have to point out though that it’s not exactly a slim device. Nevertheless, it’s not that bulky to be a deal breaker. It’s hardly noticeable with so many other good points going for this smartphone.

Side profile and ports on BlackBerry Q10

As with the BlackBerry Z10, the sides of the phones are pretty much the same. You have your Power On/Off button in the middle at the top, your volume rocker and function key (for music  play/pause, etc) on the right, the micro USB and micro HDMI out ports on the left and the speaker and groove at the bottom to remove the back for the replaceable battery.

See Previous Post : All Touch BlackBerry Z10  Launches in Malaysia

See Previous Post : BlackBerry Z10 Now On Sale in Malaysia (With Hands On Pictures & Updated Roadshow Info)

BlackBerry Q10 Accessories on display

There were some flip cases and hard back cases on display in a perspex box at the Demo Stations during the event. Unfortunately though, not much information was provided on their availability or pricing.

Pricing and Availability

BlackBerry Q10 Available for Sale on 15 May 2013

The BlackBerry Q10 will be on sale next Wednesday, 15 May 2013 with Celcom and Maxis for a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) of RM 2,388 outright, without any plans. Sometime at the end of May 2013, the BlackBerry Q10 will be available at other authorised BlackBerry dealers and distributors for outright purchase.

BlackBerry Malaysia told us that the Malaysian availability is the FIRST IN ASIA!!!

Yes, we’re the first country in Asia to launch and have the device on sale in the whole of ASIA region. Feels good to be earlier than Indonesia (undoubtedly the biggest BlackBerry market) and the privileged early adopter.

(Image Source : TechnologyGears.com)

There will only be the Black coloured version in the market initially, with the White coloured one coming soon after. Yes, Malaysians will be getting both the Black and White colour device. However, the White version of the device doesn’t come with the weave textured back like the Black version, as confirmed by BlackBerry and seen in image above.

Yes, the pricing of RM 2,388 seems a little pricey, considering the BlackBerry Z10 was only selling for RM 2,188. BlackBerry Malaysia responded that the Q10 has much more premium build quality and material, as well as a more ergonomic design and form factor than the Z10. Errr…. OK.

BlackBerry Q10 Pre-order with Celcom starts TODAY, 8 May 2013

In case you didn’t see my posting on my Facebook Page or Twitter, Celcom has opened the Registration of Interest page to start the Pre-Order process for the BlackBerry Q10 TODAY!!!!

Pre-order BlackBerry Q10 with Celcom starting TODAY!!! Click HERE

Once registered, you’ll get a FREE Bluetooth speaker with your BlackBerry Q10, as well as a RM200 rebate off your monthly bill. Start your Pre-Order of the BlackBerry Q10 with Celcom at http://www.celcom.com.my/bb_q10pre/

UPDATE : Today, on 15 May 2013, the BlackBerry Q10 is officially available for sale with Celcom from RM 1,388 (check out Celcom plan details HERE) or Maxis from RM 1,178 (check out Maxis plan details HERE).

Reviews for the BlackBerry Q10 and Conclusion

Here are some good reads if you’re considering getting yourself a BlackBerry Q10:-

• CNET : BlackBerry Q10 Review : The BlackBerry for keyboard diehards
• CrackBerry.com : Five reasons why the BlackBerry Q10′s battery life will be mid blowing
• TechCrunch : The BlackBerry Q10 is the QWERTY Keyboard Smartphone Comeback Worth Waiting For
• BGR : BlackBerry Q10 Review
• Engadget : BlackBerry Q10 Review
• The Verge : BlackBerry Q10 Review : Revenge of the Keyboard

So, now we wait until I get my hands on a review unit from BlackBerry Malaysia to do my personal user review of the BlackBerry Q10.

Until then, remember to check out the BlackBerry Q10 Product Page for all the features, gallery of pictures and specifications at http://www.blackberry.com.my/smartphones/blackberry-q10-contingency/overview.html?

Me with the BlackBerry Q10

Based on pure first impressions alone, when I got to play around with the device at the demo  station during the launch event, I really like it.

Got some cute (and delicious) BlackBerry shaped macarons

Not because BlackBerry Malaysia gave all attendees some cute BlackBerry Q10 shaped macarons to take home.

There’s really no denying how the hardware QWERTY keyboard has been such a huge selling point for BlackBerry. You sometimes forget that not everyone likes touchscreen keyboards. BlackBerry Q10 brings back what everyone loved about their BlackBerries. This Q10 is gonna satisfy those needs. On top of that, you still have a touchscreen display to make the most of the newly redesigned BlackBerry 10 OS that works very well with gestures and swipes.

Keyboard. Keyboard. Keyboard.

Personally, I think this will more likely be the bigger seller compared to the BlackBerry Z10 all touchscreen smartphone. I also think BlackBerry knows this, too. How else can you explain the higher pricing of this Q10?

Related posts:

1. Blackberry Z10 Now On Sale in Malaysia (with hands on pictures & UPDATED roadshow info)
2. CNET Asia Tech Factor BlackBerry Z10 Review #1
3. HTC One Launched & Goes On Sale in Malaysia

See Previous Post : All Touch BlackBerry Z10 Launches in Malaysia

See Previous Post : BlackBerry Z10 Now On Sale in Malaysia (with hands on pictures & updated roadshow info)

I represent Malaysia (!!!) for this Tech Factor BlackBerry Z10 review and I’ll be posting one post a week for a month on my take on the device. At the end of the program, a “winner” will be selected, where I stand to win the device, as well as some other prizes. That’s not so much the point for me. I’m just really happy to be selected to be featured on CNET ASIA!!!

This is a huge honour for me as a reader of CNET Asia for so many years. If you don’t know, CNET is a major tech site with presence globally. Every time I’m reading reviews on gadgets and researching on latest tech toys to get, I always check CNET”s review. Hubby watches CNET TV programs quite religiously on our Smart TV at home, too. To be selected for a Tech review program is a big deal for me and I’m very very happy of this achievement.

Thanks to BlackBerry Malaysia, I got the review unit from them that I have been using as my primary phone for a little over 2 weeks.

It was a bit of a learning curve to get used to the new BlackBerry 10 OS coming from Android phones all these while. The hardware was nice with a lot of great features like BlackBerry Hub (unified inbox), awesome on screen keyboard (with great predictive texting), improved Camera features (along with Story Maker and Tilt Shift) and so much more.

But I digress.

CNET Asia Tech Factor – Reviewer Profile

Check out the Tech Factor landing page on the BlackBerry Z10 review at http://asia.cnet.com/techfactor/blackberry.htm

My first Post #1 of the 4 part review of the BlackBerry Z10 is up where I cover the unboxing of the phone, along with hardware overview and my first impression of the device.

CHECK OUT MY POST : BlackBerry Z10 – The “Make It or Break It” smartphone from BlackBerry

Winnie & Blackberry Z10

READ IT NOW : BlackBerry Z10 – The “Make It or Break It” smartphone from BlackBerry

If you like it, please remember to *LIKE* the post (with your FB login) and share it with everyone you know.

In the next post next week, I will cover the user interface of the BlackBerry Z10 on BlackBerry Flow, BlackBerry Hub, the Peek gesture as well as work and productivity features of the device. Stay tuned to the CNET Asia Tech Factor page… of just follow me on social media for the announcement when the posts are up.

There will be a video interview portion for this program at the end of my written review, too. Which is why I’m asking around for any working professionals out there willing to be interviewed on video  by me, talking about your smartphone usage, and your thoughts on the new BlackBerry. You don’t have to be a BlackBerry user, just a BlackBerry lover.

Related posts:

1. CNET Asia Tech Factor BlackBerry Z10 Review #2 – A phone for work
2. All Touch Blackberry Z10 Launches in Malaysia
3. Blackberry Z10 Now On Sale in Malaysia (with hands on pictures & UPDATED roadshow info)

Samsung Galaxy S4 launched in Malaysia (Image Source : Samsung Malaysia)

Earlier today, Samsung Mobile Malaysia announced that the much anticipated Samsung Galaxy S4 is on sale in Malaysia!

Samsung Galaxy S4

Samsung Galaxy S4 is the latest flagship Android superphone from Samsung, which was announced last March 2013 in a theatrical Broadway-esque event in New York, USA. As a quick recap, here’s a brief specs overview of the Samsung Galaxy S4:-

• 5″ Full HD Super AMOLED display (1920X1080)(441 ppi)
• 1.6 GHz octa core Exynnos 5 processor <– Malaysian version is non-LTE
• 16/32/64 GB internal storage (expandable microSD slot) + 2 GB RAM
• Powered by latest Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2 OS (with Samsung TouchWiz interface)
• 13 megapixel rear camera, 2 megapixel front facing camera
• 7.9  mm thin, weighing only 130 grams
• 2,600 mAH removable battery
• Connectivity : HSPA+/LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, IR (infrared) Blaster
• Available in Black Mist and White Frost

The highlight of this flagship phone has to be the series of features that was introduced, which includes Dual Camera use, Air View using your fingers, Sound & Shot, Smart Pause, S Translator and more. For more information, do check out the Samsung Galaxy S4 microsite at http://www.samsung.com/my/galaxys4/

Also, follow Samsung Mobile Malaysia on their Facebook Page HERE or their Twitter account HERE

See Previous Post : Samsung Galaxy S4 announced & what the tech sites think

After releasing a Facebook Event invite HERE to the public yesterday, the launch consist of a moving roadshow from early morning of Saturday, 27 April 2013 until the afternoon in the following locations:-

• 9.30 – 10.00 at Blue cube Sunway Pyramid (ICONIC) Celcom Store
• 10.00 – 10.30 at Sunway Pyramid – Digi Store
• 10.45 – 11.00 at 3rd Floor The Gardens, Mid Valley – Maxis Store
• 11.30 – 12.00 at Berjaya Times Square – U Mobile Store
• 12.30 – 14.30 at Low Yat Plaza Main entrance

Woohoo!!! The GALAXY S4 have now officially landed in Malaysia! #s4malaysia twitter.com/SamsungMalaysi…

— Samsung Malaysia (@SamsungMalaysia) April 27, 2013

The launch this year was rather different from the usual Media / Partners Launch event, it’s a moving roadshow at all 4 major telcos (Celcom, DiGi, Maxis and U Mobile) ending at the consumer event at Low Yat Plaza in KL city. Additionally, all telcos also held their own roadshows at various nationwide.

Pricing and Mobile Telco Plans

The Samsung Galaxy S4 is on sale starting 10 am this morning of 27 April 2013, at the Recommended Retail Price (RRP) of RM 2,199 at all 4 telcos as well as authorised Samsung distributor / retailers.

All 4 telcos also announced their respective plans for the Samsung Galaxy S4.

Maxis – S4 Plans from RM 1,249 at RM 78/month

Maxis – Samsung Galaxy S4 Plans HERE

Check out Maxis’ Samsung Galaxy S4 plans at http://new.maxis.com.my/content/maxis/en/personal/devices/all-phones/samsung/samsung-galaxy-s4.html

Celcom – S4 Plans from RM 1,338 at RM 88/month

Celcom – Samsung Galaxy S4 Plans HERE

Check out Celcom’s’ Samsung Galaxy S4 plans at http://www.celcom.com.my/devices/smartphones/android/samsung-galaxy-s4.php

DiGi – S4 Plans from RM 1,199 at RM 148/month

DiGi – Samsung Galaxy S4 Plans HERE

Check out DiGi’s’ Samsung Galaxy S4 plans at http://www.digi.com.my/PhonesDevices/Samsung_GALAXYS4.do

U Mobile – S4 Plans from RM 899 at RM 159/month

U Mobile – Samsung Galaxy S4 Plans HERE

Check out U Mobile’s’ Samsung Galaxy S4 plans at http://www.u.com.my/phone-deals/samsung-galaxy-s4

Are you  excited? Or have you already got your hands on the Samsung Galaxy S4 already this morning?

Related posts:

1. HTC One Launched & Goes On Sale in Malaysia
2. Samsung Galaxy S4 Nationwide Roadshow Happening Now
3. Samsung Galaxy Nexus out in Malaysia today

This week, I give you a longer video of more than 5 minutes to talk about all that’s happened in the last 2 weeks in tech headlines. We have everything you need to know about Facebook Home for Android, with all the features, reviews, and more. Then we go to Samsung Galaxy S4 ads and the newly announced giant phablet – Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 and Galaxy Mega 5.8. We end it with news from Google on the new Google Play Store as well as “Inactive Account Manager” that manages your Google data after you die. Eek.

Here’s the video…

For more info and links on the stories covered in this week’s video, click on these:-

Facebook Home for Android

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Facebook Home (Image Source : Mashable)

Last Thursday, 4 April 2013, Facebook announced the much speculated Facebook Home which is actually an app launcher / skin for Android phones. Alongside this announcement, they also introduced a new hardware partnering with HTC with their first “Facebook Phone” called HTC First.

• Mashable : Facebook Home: Everything You Need to Know
• ReadWrite : Facebook Home: A Facebook Phone & A New Facebook Mobile Experience

 

Check out the Facebook Home Landing Page at http://www.facebook.com/home and perhaps watch the full stream of the announcement HERE.

 

Videos, videos, videos…

There are official video of the launch, demo videos of Facebook Home app, or Facebook Home official ads (incl the latest that features Mark Zuckerberg at the FB HQ and actual product team) and more.

 

Reviews Links

HTC First (Image Source : TechRadar)

Here are some interesting reads on hands on, reviews and more info and details of the Facebook Home and HTC First.

• TechRadar : Hands-on review: Facebook Home review
• Android Authority : The Facebook Home App Review
• SlashGear : Facebook Home Review
• TechCrunch : Facebook Offers Clarification On Home And Privacy Before Full Android Invasion
• TNW : Facebook Home Lands on Google Play for US Users on Select Devices
• Android Authority : Facebook Home suffers poor reviews in Play Store
• SlashGear : Facebook Home and HTC First Hands-on
• TechRadar : Hands-on review: HTC First review
• The Verge : HTC First review: a Facebook phone that’s pure Google at heart
• The Verge : HTC First can revert to stock Android in lieu of Facebook Home (update)
• TNW : Microsoft applauds Facebook’s people-centric Home, but ‘humbly suggests’ you get the real deal
• Techradar : Mod makes it easy to install Facebook Home on almost any Android device
• TechCrunch : Chat Heads Comes To Facebook Messenger For Android, Works Across Apps Even Without Facebook Home

Samsung Galaxy S4 Ads

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Samsung Galaxy Mega series

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Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 (Image Source : Android Authority)

Rumours are true – Samsung has announced the new Samsung Galaxy Mega series. Much larger than the already huge “phablet” of Galaxy Note II. There are 2 devices in the “Mega” series, which includes one in 6.3″ screen and another in 5.8″ screen.

• Android Authority : Galaxy Mega 6.3 and Galaxy Mega 5.8 official: specs, features, release date and pricing

Here’s a high overview of both the Galaxy Mega phones:-

• Samsung Galaxy Mega 6.3 = 6.3″ LCD HD 720p, 1.7 GHz dual core, 8/16 GB storage, 8MP back/1.9MP front, LTE / IR blaster / NFC
• Samsung Galaxy Mega 5.8 = 5.8″ LCD with qHD display, 1.4 GHz dual core, 8 GB storage, 8MP back/ 1.9MP front, IR blaster
• No pricing details. Global launch starting with Europe & Russia.

Google’s refreshed Google Play

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Refreshed Google Play

Google refreshed the Google Play Store (formerly known as “Android Market”) with a new cleaner redesign for both smartphones and tablets. The new design is much simpler, with top navigation to Apps, Games, Books, Movies, etc.

• Android blog : A fresh new look for Google Play

Google’s “Inactive Account Manger”

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Google’s Inactive Account Manager

Google recently introduced a new service under your Google settings called “Inactive Account Manager” that manages your Google digital data after you die. Basically setting the time period that you’ve been inactive / have not logged on to any Google services. You can choose the time period, and then ability to share your data with a Contact Person (emergency point of contact) and/or delete the data.

You will, of course get an SMS and email (sent to your secondary email address) before they share or delete your data.

• Google Public Policy blog : Plan your digital afterlife with Inactive Account Manager
• TechCrunch : Google’s New Inactive Account Manager Gives You Control Over Your Digital Afterlife
• Google’s Inactive Account Manager Landing Page  https://www.google.com/settings/u/0/account/inactive

Question of the Week

This week, we skip the talk on Facebook Home and discuss your digital afterlife…

How did you plan to leave your digital / social media data, after you die?

Sorry once again for the delay in this video. But do *LIKE*, comment, subscribe and share this video. I need the motivation from you guys to continue to do this.

Related posts:

1. Heads Up:TECH 16 – April Fool’s roundup, Google Translate, Gmail and Facebook Home
2. Heads Up:TECH 11 – HTC One, Google Glass, Galaxy Note 8 and more
3. Heads Up:TECH 14 – Samsung Galaxy S4 Launch Kills Google Reader