Graphite concept phone based on the DVB-H technology
You’re a television addict and you don’t allow yourself to miss any chance to watch all sorts of shows, from sports, to soap operas and concerts, maybe news and comedy shows. That’s why you’ll most probably fall in love with the Graphite DVB-H Mobile Phone concept below, a device designed by Jonathan Findlay.Jonathan Findlay is a Transport and Product designer who graduated from Coventry University in 2008 with a First Class BA (Hons) with professional enhancement. He has a great experience of working with a number of design studios.
The Graphite has the DVB-H technology integrated, so you can watch live digital TV on the move. We’re talking about a 4-way slider running on Symbian S60 user interface. Notice the superb 3.6-inch AMOLED touchscreen display that adds to the overall beauty of this phone. The TV phone concept features an active mechanical keypad that appears on pressing the screen and a spring loaded cover that guards the battery, memory card and SIM card.
Graphite Mobile comes with a 2.5 megapixel camera with autofocus and Xenon flash, 3 dedicated camera shutter/stereo speakers, 4 USB ports and 5 dedicated 3.5 mm audio ports. In addition, there are also a 0.6 MP video camera and an on / off translucent button.The very good news you’d be happy to hear is that the DVB-H technology based concept phone does look production worthy as all its integrated components are already available in the market. You are more than used to this type of concept devices that are developed by all sorts of designers, from newcomers to those who are in the business for some time, and the odds of turning them into reality are very encouraging. But who knows?
Labels: Other mobile phone brands
Boo! Ghostly game wins top prize in Nokia Mobile Games Innovation Challenge
Nokia revealed that Ghostwire, by A Different Game from Sweden, is the winner of the Mobile Games Innovation Challenge. Ghostwire is a casual collection and adventure game, where players use the unique features of the mobile device to communicate with the world of ghosts. Ghostwire also features an augmented reality-powered mini-game, where players can use the camera on their mobile device to find ghosts. At the Nokia Games Summit awards ceremony, A Different Game was awarded the top prize of 40,000 EUR to further develop their concept.Sweden’s Jadestone and France’s C4M, came in second place with Melokey to win 20,000 EUR. Eclipse Interactive from the United Kingdom claimed third place and 10,000 EUR with Watchers. As well as the prize money, each of the winners will be given pre-production contracts with Nokia Games Publishing. The winning three titles were chosen by a panel of independent industry experts, selected from a final shortlist of ten concepts from around the globe.
The Mobile Games Innovation Challenge, launched in April 2008, is designed to encourage the development of innovative game concepts with the power to positively disrupt the global mobile gaming industry and to help propel mobile gaming with handheld devices into a new and exciting future.
Labels: Nokia
EA Mobile Releases Tetris for Android, bejeweled and Monopoly Coming Next Month
EA Mobile today announced the development of two games for the T-Mobile G1. Tetris is available today and Bejeweled and MONOPOLY Here & Now Edition will become available in November. All three games will be available in the United States for purchase and download directly from www.eamobile.com.Tetris
The global hit Tetris comes to Android! A touch screen lets you spin, flick and move Minos in three challenging modes. Clear lines and rows as fast as you can to rack up a big score in thrilling 40 Lines mode. Race against the clock to earn points in action packed Ultra mode. See how long you can survive as the Minos rain down faster and faster in Marathon mode. Experience dazzling colors and animations, and entertaining music and sound effects as you complete level after level. Take on the challenge of Tetris.
Bejeweled
The Android version of the best gem-swapping puzzle game features touch screen controls that let you line up sparkling diamonds, gleaming sapphires, twinkling rubies and more in both portrait and landscape displays. Play until no more rows or columns of gems are possible in Classic mode. Or players can race against the clock on their mission to fill the progress bar and advance to the next level in Action mode.
MONOPOLY Here & Now Edition
Build a real estate empire! Play MONOPOLY Here & Now Edition on Android, the world-popular board game - now updated with a modern twist. Touch the screen to control the game. Buy and sell properties like Waikiki Beach, Fenway Park, and more. Dynamic animated tokens include a hybrid car, a mobile phone, and a labradoodle. Demonstrate your trading savvy as you buy, sell, and put your competitors out of business. Compete to win all the MONOPOLY cash!
Samsung Epix Smartphone has an integrated optical mouse
After the latest i7110, Samsung and AT&T officially announced the SGH-i907 Epix, a QWERTY keyboard and touchscreen equipped smartphone running Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional operating system. The Epix is based on the SGH-i780 that is available in other parts of the world and features the same optical joystick controller that replaces the directional pad and is found on that device as well as on the i900 Omnia.The Epix is available exlusively to AT&T customers in the US and allows users to choose between several ways to navigate its touchscreen, including the first-ever implementation of optical mouse technology on a phone sold in the US. The optical mouse is placed in the center of the device, between the right and left soft keys, and makes navigation a whole lot quicker and easier by simply sweeping a finger over it. Thus, if you want to make a selection, you just have to click one single time and you will get to the desired location within the phone’s menus. You can also switch the optical mouse to a four-way navigation key for more traditional navigation. If you, on the other hand, prefer to interact directly with the touchscreen, then you either use your finger to navigate or the Epix’s built-in stylus for pinpoint accuracy.
The Epix has a cool silver finish and follows a long line of robust and groundbreaking crossover smartphones from AT&T and Samsung Mobile. In addition, the Epix is a next generation, sleek, stylish and compact handset.
The Samsung SGH-i907 combines impressive features, such as: Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g) to connect with home or campus networks or access more than 17,000 AT&T hot spots nationwide, including at thousands of participating Starbucks locations, a built-in aGPS, which can be used with AT&T Navigator, AT&T Navigator Global Edition and other GPS-based applications for personal and business use, AT&T Video Share, the first-ever service in the US that allows users to share live video over wireless devices while participating in a voice call, Global capabilities to help user to make or receive a phone call in more than 200 countries and check email, browse the Web or perform other data functions in more than 150 countries, including in more than 60 – such as Japan and South Korea – that have developed 3G networks, 2.0 megapixel camera with video capture capabilities and a slim, light form factor.
Moreover, users have the chance to access multiple email accounts with Microsoft Direct Push for corporate users and AT&T Xpress Mail, which includes access to most major personal email accounts. Developed with the business user in mind, “the Epix allows you to never miss a beat at the office, stay in touch with colleagues and family and enjoy entertainment”, said Bill Ogle, Chief Marketing Officer, Samsung Telecommunications America.
The Epix runs on Windows Mobile 6.1, bringing a powerful personal computer experience to a compact device. Therefore, you can use Microsoft Office Outlook Mobile, Internet Explorer Mobile that provides improved quick and easy Web browsing and Office Mobile, which enhances the productivity with the ability to manage Word, Excel and PowerPoint documents. It also feature threaded SMS messaging, Internet connection sharing, mobile banking and Voice Command.The communications tools aren’t everything about this new device, because the Epix is a multimedia and entertainment powerhouse also. You have access to AT&T Mobile Music, an integrated, on-the-go music experience that delivers “your music, your way”, by providing simple access to a robust collection of music content, including access to online subscription music content from Napster Mobile, XM Radio Mobile and more. You can also see thousands of video clips via streaming videos, a feature enabled by the Cellular Video (CV) from AT&T.
In addition, there are the Stereo Bluetooth technology, with stereo headset support, a 2.0 megapixel camera with video-capture capabilities, Windows Media Player 10 Mobile and microSD memory card slot for external storage of up to 32GB of data.
The AT&T BroadbandConnect 3G network is the one backing the Epix and the network’s HSDPA-based technology allows users to perform data functions and conduct a phone call simultaneously. Besides the 3G connectivity, there is a AT&T nationwide EDGE network, which is available in more than 13,000 cities and towns and along some 40,000 miles of major highways.
The Samsung Epix is available through select AT&T retail locations or at AT&T’s official website for $199.99 with a two-year service agreement and after a mail-in rebate.
Labels: Samsung
Mobiado unveils four new luxury cell phones
As if there weren’t already enough Mobiado luxury cell phones on the market, the Canadian manufacturer has announced the release of four new handsets: Professional 105 EM White, Professional 105 EM Red, Professional 105 EM CLB Black and Professional 105 EM CLB Silver.
The first two phones are part of the Professional 105 EM Special Edition series which continues the tradition of the Executive Model series. They are built from exquisite materials like maple burl wood, titanium, sapphire crystals and 24K gold. Burl wood is highly prized by artists because of its unique beauty and rarity. Every 105 EM Special Edition is as different and unique as every rare exotic tree is.
Each pair of wood inserts is CNC machined from the same piece of solid maple burl wood. This is a guarantee to the consistent grain structure on both sides of the phone. The maple burl wood is then inlayed into a nickel plated, brass frame. While the screws are made of titanium, the button of the 105EM Special Edition White are sapphire crystal, hand painted with silver paint, in order to produce front and back surfaces made entirely of sapphire crystals (225 carats).
As far as the Red version is concerned, the wood inserts are also CNC machined from the same piece of solid box burl wood, for the exactly same reason. The box burl wood is then inlayed into a 5 micron thick 24-karat gold plated, brass frame. The screws are gold plated brass and the buttons are sapphire crystals, hand painted with 24-karat gold.
Based on the construction of the Professional 105 ZAF lineup, the entire front and back of the 105EM Special edition phones have been crafted from large pieces of sapphire crystal, providing a modern minimalist look with a wear resistance second only to diamond. These luxury cell phones utilize a unique and hidden sliding battery cover mechanism (patent pending) with the battery cover being made entirely from one piece of sapphire crystal.
The specs of Professional 105EM White and Professional 105EM Red include: quad band GSM/EGSM and dual band WCDMA (850/2100) connectivity, a 2 megapixel camera and video camera, more than 1 GB of internal memory (whatever that means), a 2-inch display with up to 16 million colors, Bluetooth and micro USB connectivity, and a music player that supports AAC, eAAC+ and MP3 audio formats.
Professional 105EM CLB Black and Professional 105EM CLB Silver have the same specs as the other two Mobiado luxury cell phones, but they look a little bit different. And I’m not sure this is a very good thing.
All four devices will be available unlocked, but unfortunately there is no word about the release date and prices. Anyway, don’t expect them to be affordable!
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The first two phones are part of the Professional 105 EM Special Edition series which continues the tradition of the Executive Model series. They are built from exquisite materials like maple burl wood, titanium, sapphire crystals and 24K gold. Burl wood is highly prized by artists because of its unique beauty and rarity. Every 105 EM Special Edition is as different and unique as every rare exotic tree is.Each pair of wood inserts is CNC machined from the same piece of solid maple burl wood. This is a guarantee to the consistent grain structure on both sides of the phone. The maple burl wood is then inlayed into a nickel plated, brass frame. While the screws are made of titanium, the button of the 105EM Special Edition White are sapphire crystal, hand painted with silver paint, in order to produce front and back surfaces made entirely of sapphire crystals (225 carats).
As far as the Red version is concerned, the wood inserts are also CNC machined from the same piece of solid box burl wood, for the exactly same reason. The box burl wood is then inlayed into a 5 micron thick 24-karat gold plated, brass frame. The screws are gold plated brass and the buttons are sapphire crystals, hand painted with 24-karat gold.Based on the construction of the Professional 105 ZAF lineup, the entire front and back of the 105EM Special edition phones have been crafted from large pieces of sapphire crystal, providing a modern minimalist look with a wear resistance second only to diamond. These luxury cell phones utilize a unique and hidden sliding battery cover mechanism (patent pending) with the battery cover being made entirely from one piece of sapphire crystal.
The specs of Professional 105EM White and Professional 105EM Red include: quad band GSM/EGSM and dual band WCDMA (850/2100) connectivity, a 2 megapixel camera and video camera, more than 1 GB of internal memory (whatever that means), a 2-inch display with up to 16 million colors, Bluetooth and micro USB connectivity, and a music player that supports AAC, eAAC+ and MP3 audio formats.
Professional 105EM CLB Black and Professional 105EM CLB Silver have the same specs as the other two Mobiado luxury cell phones, but they look a little bit different. And I’m not sure this is a very good thing.
All four devices will be available unlocked, but unfortunately there is no word about the release date and prices. Anyway, don’t expect them to be affordable!
Labels: mobiado, Other mobile phone brands
Sony Ericsson Hikaru. To be or not to be?
If you’re the “I’ve seen it and I’ve already forgot it” type of guy, then you must have went beyond the Xperia X1 phase, even if the arc-slider smartphone with Windows Mobile 6.1 Operating System is still considered by some a new device, as it was first presented at the 2008 Mobile World Congress. Maybe you’re not, I wouldn’t know, but pay a little bit of attention to what I have to say: Sony Ericsson is getting ready to release a new touchscreen handset that will bring 8 GB of internal memory and an 8 megapixel camera.Sony Ericsson Labs are leaking phones on a daily basis, so according to the SEMC Blog, the handset which was codenamed Hikaru, a common Japanese term used for both males and females, will be the next high-end slider of the Swedish-Japanese manufacturer. Because everyone seems to just love the touchscreens these days. There are lots of devices like the HTC Touch Diamond, LG Vu, BlackBerry Storm the iPhone 3G, or even the recent Nokia Tube, that has just made its official debut.
For the moment, it’s not clear where Hikaru will fit into Sony Ericsson’s range of products. Will it be a Walkman, a Cyber-shot or perhaps a G-series? This is one thing people would really love to find out, but they would also like to know whether the keyboard will be an alphanumeric or a QWERTY one.
While there is yet to be a formal announcement on the matter, it seems that the Sony Ericsson Hikaru will be the company’s official competitor to the iPhone and other similar devices. There are no real details or shots yet, except that it will sport a slider form factor. Hopefully, we’ll hear more about this one soon, so stay tuned and see if Hikaru will be a real handset.
Labels: sony ericsson
iSkoot for Skype launches as First Mobile VoIP Application for Android Smartphones
Skoot today announced that its mobile application, iSkoot for Skype, is launching in the Android Market. iSkoot’s solution supports the Skype Software, offering Android users on any cellular network the ability to make Skype-to-Skype calls on their mobile phone. It is not free though, see the cost listing in detail after the jump.Making a Skype-to-Skype call: Airtime + A little bit of Data
When you call a Skype contact on your mobile phone, it costs the same as making a local call - so depending on your mobile calling plan, normal airtime charges may apply. Once you’re connected to the Skype network, your call works like a regular voice call from your phone. (iSkoot does NOT connect the call using the cellular data channel.) iSkoot also uses a small amount of data to keep the status of your contacts updated.
Making a SkypeOut call: Airtime + Standard SkypeOut Rates + A little bit of Data
When making a SkypeOut call using iSkoot, the same basic costs apply as making a Skype-to-Skype call noted above (which means that normal airtime charges may apply, plus some data to keep contact status information updated). In addition, Skype charges the applicable SkypeOut connection rates to connect the call to a regular telephone line, just as they would if the SkypeOut call originated from your PC.
Receiving a Skype Call: Airtime + Skype Mobile Call Forwarding Rates + A little bit of Data
When you receive an incoming Skype call on your mobile phone, the same basic costs apply as making a Skype-to-Skype call noted above (which means that normal airtime charges may apply, plus some data to keep contact status information updated). In addition, your SkypeOut account will be charged at Skype’s call forwarding rates for mobile numbers.
Using Skype Text Chat: A little bit of Data + Some SMS Messages
When you use Skype text chat on your mobile phone, the service uses your data connection to exchange messages with your chat buddies. In order to notify you immediately when a new chat message is received, iSkoot may send the software on your phone a special SMS message telling it to retrieve the newest message from the server. (Any special chat-related SMS messages won’t clog up your Inbox, either!)
Soft QWERTY Keyboard for Android Available in Q1 2009
If you are needing a soft keyboard for your new T-Mobile G1, Android has released a roadmap which include the soft keyboard feature on Q1 2009. When the Input method framework and Input method engines is complete, you will be able to use the soft keyboad from Android, plus application developers can develop new soft keyboard application for the Android OS.Android Q1 2009 roadmap:
Input method framework (IMF)
This feature will enable support for input methods other than physical keyboards, for example soft keyboards. IMF will also enable application developers to provide IME (see below) applications based on the framework.Input method engines (IME)
IME will support soft keyboards, a dictionary of suggestions, and a suggestion algorithm. The Android platform may contain few reference IMEs, and developers can provide IME applications through the Android Market.
Labels: Gphone
The LG KP500 Gets a Codename: ‘Cookie’
The entry-level candybar LG KP500 has been given a nice little name by the folks at LG. The ‘Cookie’ packs in a lot of features for what appears to be a very affordable handset.Notable Features:
* Quad-band GSM
* GRPS/EDGE
* 3″ touchscreen
* 3MP camera
* Built-in accelerometer
* Bluetooth 2.1
* FM Radio
* Flash-based user interface
At an estimated price point around or below $100 USD before rebates and discounts, the ‘Cookie’ is looking to be a great pick-up for the holiday season… At least that’s what I assume LG is hoping :)
Look for the ‘Cookie’ to make its debut later this month.
Labels: LG
Mobile Event Guide from Sony Ericsson
Yesterday, in London, Sony Ericsson proudly presented its Mobile Event Guide, a free mobile application that allows sport fans to access all the information about a sports program, local travel and tourism information, and that is updated via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The application will be launched for the first time at the Sony Ericsson Championships, the “prestigious season ending women's tennis event,” as the official announcement said.
Speaking of the new service, CVP and Head of Global Communications and PR, Sony Ericsson, Aldo Liguori, said, “Sony Ericsson continually strives for new ways of using its technical innovation to enhance the experience for those attending Sony Ericsson sponsored events. The Mobile Event Guide will enable fans at the Sony Ericsson Championships in Doha to access an easy-to-use, free service offering an indispensable guide to the tournament and city. We look forward to rolling out the application in the future for a variety of spectator events.”
The application runs on the Java platform, and is self-contained, meaning users don't need to keep their data connection on all day long. This is because by using wireless technology, Mobile Event Guide users can choose to receive live feeds and up to minute information. If not, the application will update itself every time users enter the stadium in Doha. Actually, the first time they do so, they will be greeted with a message from Sony Ericsson, inviting them to download the app via Bluetooth.
Speaking of which, most mobile phones with Bluetooth functionalities are compatible with the application, thus users will be able to download the version of Mobile Event Guide suited for their mobiles at the Sony Ericsson kiosks on the stadium.
In all fairness, the application does sound to be useful for sport fans, especially for those that will attend the Sony Ericsson Championships.
Labels: sony ericsson
Vodafone Australia Delivers BlackBerry Storm
Following a long wait and numerous rumors, BlackBerry Storm has finally been made available, and now everybody seems to be eager to get their hands on the much anticipated device. The first two mobile carriers to deliver RIM's Storm are Verizon and Vodafone.Vodafone Australia has recently announced that it's going to offer users the BlackBerry Storm soon. On the carrier’s official website, all those interested can already pre-order the device. Unfortunately, the company does not provide any clues regarding a release date, nor regarding the price for the Storm.
“We are delighted to bring the power of the BlackBerry Storm, purpose built for Vodafone, directly into the hands of consumer and business customers,“ the Global Chief Marketing Officer at Vodafone Group, Frank H Rovekamp, says.
“With its unique clickable touch screen, giving access to all the desirable multi-media features and services such as browsing, music and video, turn by turn satellite navigation, messaging and social networking, and BlackBerry’s mobile heritage and strong business reputation, the BlackBerry Storm is being brought by Vodafone into the consumer world. With Vodafone’s ultra high speed, reliable mobile network and this exclusive and exciting new smartphone, there has never been a better time to be with Vodafone.” Rovekamp further adds.
The main features of BlackBerry Storm are a 3.25-inch TFT touchscreen, light sensing display with 480 x 360 pixels, on-screen keyboard – full QWERTY in landscape mode and SureType QWERTY in portrait mode, built-in GPS, full HTML browser, push email, BlackBerry Enterprise Server, BlackBerry Internet Service, BlackBerry Unite! and BlackBerry Professional Software, DataViz Documents to Go.
The device also packs a 3.2 megapixel camera with auto focus, variable zoom, geotagging and flash, media player with support for many formats, a 3.5mm audio jack, Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP, password protection and screen lock, and 1GB internal memory, expandable via microSD and microSDHC cards up to 16GB.
Labels: Blackberry
T-Mobile USA to offer BlackBerry Pearl 8120 in 3 new colors
T-Mobile offers its popular BlackBerry Pearl 8120 smartphone in three new colors - black emerald, indigo, and frost. The new colors are available nationwide now for US$149.99 with two year service agreement.The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 includes an advanced multimedia experience, which features video recording and playback, a two-megapixel digital camera, stereo Bluetooth support, and an externally accessible microSD/SDHC memory card slot for expandable memory storage.
Labels: Blackberry
T-Mobile to get Motorola MOTOZINE ZN5 on November 3
A little T-Mo love for the weekend. Motorola announced the MOTOZINE ZN5 back in June, and since then it’s been speculation on it coming to T-Mobile in the US. Looks like the speculation can end. T-Mobile will have the MOTOZINE ZN5 come November 3rd. Perhaps this would make a great holiday gift for that special someone? It packs a 5MP camera, so it actually would make a pretty darn good gift for the photog in your family. More specs on the phone are as follows:* 5.0 MP camera with Xenon flash and video capture
* High res landscape screen
* CrystalTalk technology
* ModeShift technology
* 150 MB of available memory, 1 GB microSD card included
* Simplified sharing and editing via Kodak applications
* Stereo Bluetooth connectivity
* WiFi
* Microsoft Windows Media Player 11
* Integrated FM radio
* MegaTones and HiFi ringers
* myFaves capability
* Photo caller ID
* Video capture and playback
* Video messaging
* Voice recorder
As you can see, the MOTOZINE ZN5 is a feature-packed phone. Looks like the goods. Stay tuned for pricing and contract details in the near future.
Labels: Motorola
Philips E100, a low-end music phone
After the introduction of their latest device, the Xenium X600, which was designed to have a long battery life, Philips came up with another music phone, releasing the new E100. As a matter of fact, Philips cell phones aren’t exactly ground breaking other than the fact that many of their handsets tout superior battery life as the main selling point. This means that many of those devices’ features are revolutionary, therefore nor up-to-date. The E100 is a low-end handset in a candybar design and features only the bare basics, so you shouldn’t expect even a VGA camera to come with it.
A budget minded mobile handset that should come with a reasonable price tag, the Philips E100 brings simplicity into the mobile world with its 1.8 inches 65k display, featuring a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, enough for personalizing it with screensavers and wallpapers.
Among this phone’s features are included: an integrated FM radio, GSM / GPRS support, a WAP 2.0 / xHTML browser, a clock, an alarm, a calculator, a calendar, voice memo, T9 and handsfree. As far as the music lovers are concerned, there is an MP3 playback option, the device being able to recognize MP3 / WAV / AAC formats.
You might be disappointed by the fact that the E100 has a whopping 2MB of integrated memory (yes, you’ve read it right, I said megabytes), but you’ve got the possibility of increasing the storage due to the microSD card slot (TransFlash) of up to 2GB (this is one compulsory feature, if you ask me, as the internal memory is so… rudimentary).
The Philips E100 measures 104 x 44 x 13.7 millimeters and weighs 75 grams and it’s expected to be available this month at a price around $60 in selected retail stores. As I’ve said it before, the phone it’s a music dedicated one, so it doesn’t come with a camera. It might not catch your eye whatsoever, unless you’re looking for a simple standard device.
Labels: Philips
Alltel Wireless lets customers move to their own beat with the LG Rhythm
Alltel Wireless and LG announced today that the LG Rhythm is available in Alltel retail stores and online at shopalltel.com. Sleek and stylish, the LG Rhythm offers customers a premium music player with Digital Signal Processing as well as a graphic equalizer professionally tuned by Mr. Mark Levinson. The phone also includes an FM transmitter that easily streams songs to a car stereo or other receiver from up to 10 feet away. The LG Rhythm also comes with a 3.5 mm stereo headset with a microphone that allows users to easily toggle between music and incoming calls.
With 120 MB of internal memory, users can store their favorite songs or video files and conveniently access the files using a designated music hot key and 1-inch circular touchscreen. Other features include a 2-inch main LCD display screen, a 1.3 megapixel camera with zoom and camcorder, Bluetooth 2.0 capabilities, background music mode and a microSD external memory port supporting up to 16 GB.
Alltel Wireless is offering the LG Rhythm in black or white for $119.99 after $50 mail-in-rebate and a two-year service agreement.
Labels: LG
Rumor: new Nokia 7110 slide?
Remember the old Nokia 7110? Yeah, it’s one of Nokia popular phones at the era of monochrome screens and flip top form factors. Keeps on coming out with choices for consumers, apparently Nokia is going to offer the new Nokia N7110 slide to the low and middle-end users.Even though the unannounced phone is not as sophisticated as N-Series or E-Series, but good enough as one of choices for consumers.
Actually, I like its simple design, escpecially the blue surface around its menu and yes/no buttons.The phone will have:
* Triband GSM/EDGE
* QVGA display
* 1.3 megapixels camera
* microSD slot
* FM radio
* Bluetooth
GSMArena predicts the price shouldn’t be higher than EUR 100.
Labels: Nokia
Samsung ACE Can Now be Upgraded to Windows Mobile 6.1
Today Sprint and Samsung announced key enhancements, including GPS to support Sprint Navigation, Windows Mobile 6.1 and the addition of Office Mobile 6.1 for the Samsung ACE. The new software’s downloading instructions are available at http://www.samsungmobileusa.com/i325/upgrade
Other than Windows Mobile 6.1 upgrade, the GPS will be enhanced to provide support applications such as Sprint Navigation. Sprint Navigation provides audio and visual turn-by-turn directions, more than 10 million local listings, and one-click traffic rerouting on compatible phones, similar to an in-vehicle GPS system.
“The software upgrades make the Samsung ACE more powerful and easy-to-use than ever before,” said Bill Ogle, Chief Marketing Officer for Samsung Mobile. “Our customers want to be able to do business whether they are in or out of the office and the ACE’s new features make working while on-the-go even better.”
The Samsung ACE is available in Sprint for $99.99, with a two-year service agreement and a $100 mail-in-rebate.
Labels: Samsung
Fat Samsung Propel Unveiled for AT&T Network
AT&T yesterday announced a new line of quick messaging mobile phones that are equipped with a QWERTY keyboard. Arriving in time for the holiday shopping season, the Pantech Matrix is available today and the Samsung Propel and Pantech Slate will hit stores in late October, followed by the AT&T Quickfire in November. All four new mobile phones feature full QWERTY keypads, allowing everyone from newbie messengers to textaholics to send text, picture, video and instant messages with ease.
The Samsung Propel is a square slider with the best of AT&T’s entertainment offerings such as instant messaging, Mobile Email, AT&T Navigator, CV, AT&T Video Share calling, AT&T Mobile Music and a 1.3 megapixel camera. It will be available for $79.99 after a two-year agreement and mail-in rebate, the Propel will be available in late October in blue, green, red, and white with red.“This new line of mobile phones will be a hit with both the text messaging generation and users who want to more easily use other functions on their phone, from mobile e-mail to typing in a search term on the pre-installed YELLOWPAGES.COM,” said Carlton Hill, vice president of Devices and Product Development for AT&T’s wireless operations. “For a lot of reasons, more buttons are better.”
Labels: Samsung
UK to Get T-Mobile G1 from October 30
T-Mobile today announces the T-Mobile G1 will be available in the UK from 30 October. Exclusive to T-Mobile, the G1 comes with full touch screen functionality plus a QWERTY keyboard for easy online communication, high speed internet with popular Google services already on board, and access to innovative application downloads from the new Android Market. According to the company, there are already 25,000 UK consumers pre-registered their interest in the device.The G1 is available for free on T-Mobile Combi and Flext price plans from £40 a month, including unlimited fast mobile internet browsing powered by T-Mobile’s award-winning network. Combi 35 offers 800 minutes and unlimited texts while Flext 40 gives up to 1,250 minutes or up to 2,500 texts or any mix of the two.
The T-Mobile G1 Features:
* Available in two colours black and white
* GPS and compass
* Rich HTML email client which seamlessly synchs email with POP3 or IMAP services
* 3.5G (HSDPA/HSUPA) and Wi-Fi connectivity
* 3 Mega pixel camera
* MP3 music player
* Pre-installed 2 GB Micro SD memory card (device supports up to an 8 GB card)
* Bluetooth-enabled
* Up to 130 hours standby and up to 5 hours talk time
* Dimensions: 117.7 x 55.7 x 26.5 mm
* Weight: 158g
Sony Ericsson W760a Available on AT&T
Yesterday, AT&T and Sony Ericsson announced the W760a, the first 3G Walkman phone in the US. The device is designed to deliver users the best of on-the-go entertainment and, of course, a unique music experience. W760a also features an accelerometer, thus users will be able to interact more with the device through movements.The accelerometer will allow users to shake or tilt the phone to fast forward to the next song, and also to simulate motion when playing a game. Also, the new Walkman comes with A and B dedicated gaming buttons, for extra control and interactivity while playing games.
"Why use buttons when motion can guide mobile entertainment?" Vice President of Devices and Product Development for AT&T's wireless operations, Carlton Hill, said. "Whether using the W760a to play a bowling game by mimicking the action or simply shaking it to listen to the next song in your playlist, the W760a can follow your lead."
"We're excited to offer a full portfolio of Walkman™ devices at a variety of price points for a broad range of users and are excited about the continued growth of our relationship with AT&T." Sony Ericsson's North America President, Najmi Jarwala, said. "With the availability of the W760a Walkman™ phone, U.S. consumers now have a full range of Walkman™ devices to choose from that fit their budget, their style and meet their desire for mobile phones that provide a robust entertainment experience." he further explained.
The W760a features include full HTML Web Browsing, a 3.2 MP camera, AT&T Navigator, aside from Bluetooth 2.0 and USB 2.0, which the 3G Walkman delivers. Another thing worth mentioning about this phone is that it's designed for worldwide use, being a quad band.
For 129.00USD and a two-year agreement after the mail-in rebate, the phone is available for users in red, black and silver color options. For those that don't like commitment, the phone is sold for 279.99USD contract-free.
Labels: sony ericsson
Samsung D980 Dual-Sim Phone: Available in Russia
Remember the Samsung D980 that we talked about in July and was released in China? The cellphone will also become available in Russia in the upcoming weeks, but so far there is no information about the price. One of the best features on the D980 is the Dual-SIM functionality, which basically means it supports 2 SIM cards at the same time.The upcoming (in Russia) Samsung cellphone has a 2.6-inch touchscreen with 240×320 pixels as the resolution, and includes a stylus so you can easily use the TouchWiz interface. Although it doesn’t support 3G, it is compatible with 900/1800/1900MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE bands.
Additional features on the Samsung D980 include support of microSD memory cards of 2GB, FM radio tuner, bluetooth, and a 5-megapixel camera with flash + autofocus.
Labels: Samsung
Sony Ericsson Rika is Named W705
Sony Ericsson Rika, the new walkman phone which inherit the design of Sony Ericsson G705, is to be named as W705 according to the official phone profile xml document. The slider phone’s specification will be similar to the G705 too with a 240 x 320 display screen, 3.2 megapixel camera, built in WiFi and aGPS. You should see the official announcement soon in October this month.Labels: sony ericsson
LG Prada II Phone Announced, with QWERTY Keyboard
LG and PRADA Group (Prada) today announced that the partnership that created the PRADA Phone by LG will release its second handset before the end of the year. Almost identical to first LG Prada phone, the new telephone has added an ultra-thin keyboard slides from under the handset. The metallic feel makes it a pleasure to touch and type, complimenting the slick design aesthetic. The silver keyboard along with the additional on-screen, call and hang-up buttons gives fresh tactility to the original minimal concept.
Other enhanced features include 3G compatibility with video calling, 7.2Mbps HSDPA, full HTML browser, the 5 mega pixel camera with Schneider-Kreuznach certified lens, and Wi-Fi accessibility.The new Prada mobile will be available with a starting price of 600 Euros though major mobile dealerships in Italy, UK, France, Germany, Spain and Netherlands in the 4Q of 2008.
Labels: LG
4 SIMs Magma Phone Concept
I’m sure everybody has already heard about Dual SIM phones, as they are very fashionable at the moment. The fundamental characteristic of such a device is that it integrates two Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs). When dual-SIM adapters are available, they allow cellphones to contain two SIMs and to switch from one to the other as requires. Some other phones are designed to work with both SIMs, meaning that they are active at the same time.Using two SIM cards in one phone is an option people are willing to consider more and more nowadays, because this way they can have a personal and a business number with one single handset. You save money, of course, but you will also say goodbye to carrying two mobile phones on you all the time, since manufacturers have been coming up with ingenious ways of dealing the situation.
But dual SIM phones will soon become history, because you can already find on the market 3SIM cards. However, how about 4 SIMs? It sounds ridiculous and it makes you laugh, isn’t it, just because this is something extremely rare, if not a never tried before idea.
Have a look to the new Magma Phone Concept, designed by Amit Vagyani. The source of inspiration for the design of this device is one of the most important elements of nature: fire, which depicts heat and enthusiasm. You can easily recognize the fact that this new era we’re facing today is more demanding than previous years, being necessary to introduce an immediate and high end connectivity in the world of communication. Therefore, Magma is the ultimate solution to meet the demands of fast growing businessmen and gives them chance to evolve in a smart way with the power of parallel quadro connectivity with 4 SIM facility. In other words, you can use different numbers for different purposes, so that your private number stays really private.
Magma has an ultra slim design and features a twin option for touchscreen and keypad. Among its specifications there is the possibility of extendable memory, up to 40 GB, a 5 megapixel camera with 8x optical zoom, Bluetooth, infrared, Wi-Fi, twin CDMA and GSM compatibility. Measuring 100 x 49 x 16 millimeters and weighing 60 grams, Magma’s battery lasts up to 12 hours of active talk mode. Quite nice, isn’t it?
It’s a concept, as I’ve told you before, and there is no information on price and availability, but I’d bet all my money on the fact that lots of people are already looking forward for such a device to hit the mass production.
Labels: Other mobile phone brands
Nokia Phone Works With Water
Here’s a concept phone with has Nokia written all over it. I don’t think it’s the phone we’re going to see next week since it proposes quite an interesting idea. As you can see it’s a phone that immediately makes you think it comes with a touchscreen. Indeed it does. The other features aren’t clear right now but we don’t actually need them right now.
Labels: Nokia
HTC T8290 Will Support WiMAX and GSM
Clearly, Taiwanese mobile manufacturer HTC is having an excellent year. After bringing the HTC Diamond to users out there, it moved directly to making the first Google Android phone, the G1 for T-Mobile. Now, recently leaked information has it that HTC is working on a HTC T8290 phone that, apparently, supports not only GSM but also WiMAX.This is now the latest, hottest, and most debated topic regarding mobile phones, and tidbits of information and some pictures of the HTC T8290 have already leaked. The new device is designed to allow even more wireless Internet access, thus complying with the current trend in the mobile industry, imposed by all the phones that are destined to be high-end and that provide, one way or another, broadband Internet access and advanced browsing functionalities.
WiMAX is a telecommunications technology that is designed to provide wireless data transmission in a variety of ways, from point to point links to full mobile Internet access. It allows for broadband speed without the need of cables, which is an essential aspect for mobiles if we come to think of it. Thus, WiMAX is a reliable alternative to cable and DSL connections and, as far as mobile phones go, a great alternative in the absence of 3G.
The HTC T8290 is apparently designed for the Russian WiMAX operator Yota. Since Russia has no 3G coverage, users can benefit from broadband Internet by using this device.The specs for the phone include a 3.8" 800×480 WVGA LCD, 802.11g WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0. Unfortunately, this is all the info available for the time being. Considering that the handset is supposedly almost official, since it has been presented at the WiMAX World Conference in Chicago, all the specs, along with a price and release date, should be made public soon. However, just like in all the cases when we have to deal with rumors and leaked information, we'll just have to wait and see.
Labels: HTC
Google’s Android Could Signal a Tipping Point in Smartphones
If Google’s ambitions for its recently-launched Android smartphone operating system are fully realized, the new OS will represent a tipping point in attitudes towards the whole concept of a smartphone. This tectonic shift will affect consumers, handset manufacturers and, most critically, mobile network operators.According to ABI Research director Kevin Burden, “If Android is to become the ubiquitous mobile phone platform that Google and the Open Handset Alliance hope it will be, it will be because operators and handset OEMs recognize the value to their own business models of using standard platforms, not because wireless subscribers clamor for feature-rich phones, much less an Android-based phone.”
The current smartphone market accounts for only 14% of worldwide handsets. That doesn’t help Google’s aspirations to have a platform used by a wide population to whom they can market their services. Google needs to convince handset manufacturers to replace the real-time operating systems that now power the majority of mobile phones. In the smartphone market of the future, users won’t always be aware of what they’re buying: they will buy simply because they’re in the market for a phone, not specifically a smartphone.
The challenge is to convince operators that having more phones in their lineups and more subscribers using those phones based on standardized operating systems is good for them. Standardization delivers easier manageability at the technical level and greater ease in marketing services to all their subscribers.
“The smartphone market has been moving in this direction for some time now,” Burden continues. “If Android is a success, it may be the tipping point that marks the start of a profound change in the smartphone market.”
Labels: Gphone
AT&T's Samsung Propel, a Phone for Texters
In one of our latest articles, we talked about AT&T lineup of Samsung phones. It seems that, for this fall/winter, the mobile operator relies heavily on Samsung to offer users all the mobility they need, at all prices, from expensive to cheap, depending on the customer.Among the Samsung Omnia, the Eternity and the Mirage, we also mentioned that the so-called Samsung Propel (the name is yet uncertain, and the producer tends to keep changing it) was rumored to come to the largest telephone services provider in the US. Unfortunately, not very much is known about this device, but we'll make sure we’ll keep you up to date with more information as it becomes available. Until then, let us stick to the known facts about the Propel.
The first thing to be noticed is the striking resemblance with SGH-i620, but unlike this one, the Propel is not designed to be a smartphone, but rather a normal phone destined for texters, since it is not powered by Windows Mobile. Still, considering the resemblance, we can speculate on some of its features, since the exterior seems to keep the exact same dimensions.
So, the Propel is expected to be a thin phone at only 95mm x 59mm x 16mm that will greet users with a 2-inch 65k color TFT LCD, QVGA (320 x 240 pixel) resolution display, hopefully. These facts are only suppositions, so they might turn out to be wrong, but one can always hope for the best. As its bigger counterpart, i620, the Propel will offer users a full blown QWERTY keyboard for fast typing, and apparently, it will also boost an integrated GPS that should make AT&T's Navigation run smoothly.
The device is rumored to start selling in the near future, perhaps during the Christmas season, for about $80 with all discounts and a contract. Texters will be able to choose between the red, green and blue colors options that are available for this phone.
Labels: Samsung
BlackBerry Curve 8350i Close to a Sprint Release
The latest Blackberry iDEN smartphone presented by RIM, BlackBerry Curve 8350i, will soon be released in the US by Sprint, the third largest North American mobile carrier. Of course, we already new this, since RIM and Sprint have announced the future arrival of the device about one month ago. But recently, Sprint has come up with a webpage that showcases the Curve 8350i, which means that it won't be long before the smartphone becomes commercially available.Touted by RIM as a "Business Guru," BlackBerry Curve 8350i seems to be the perfect mix between a smartphone and an iDEN device. With the new Curve, users will be able to enjoy advanced Push to Talk capabilities and connect with other iDEN subscribers, via Sprint's Nextel Direct Connect network.
Design-wise, BlackBerry 8350i is not too different from the other smartphones included in the Curve series, the major visual change being represented by the fact that the iDEN smartphone has an all-black case.
Besides the Push to Talk capabilities, BlackBerry Curve 8350i also features: a 320 x 240 pixel TFT display with 65K colors, a full QWERTY keyboard, trackball navigation, built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, DataViz Documents to Go for reading and editing documents, push email, Web browser, Instant Messaging, picture and video messaging, Media Player with lots of formats supported, Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP, a 2 Megapixel camera with flash and video recording, microSD card slot and a 1400 mAh battery.
Note that, in the US, Sprint will be the exclusive carrier for BlackBerry Curve 8350i, so if you're interested in the smartphone, the only way of getting it is by signing a Sprint contract agreement.
The price of Curve 8350i is not known for the moment. However, seeing as how the other iDEN BlackBerry – the old 7100i – is currently being sold for 199 USD with a two-year contract, the new 8350i will probably be offered for around 300 USD.
Labels: Blackberry
Nokia Releases Beta 3 Email Service
The Nokia Email Service has been around for some time. Also, it has been in beta version for a considerable period, but now, as it turns out, we’re one beta closer to alpha. Should you happen to be interested in beta or pre-beta application testing, then this will come as good news to you. Today, Nokia released the Beta 3 version of the Nokia Email Service, bringing new goodies for all.Beta 3 will include at least two features that have suffered significant improvement, meaning, better mailbox management and true synchronization, which translates into that, starting today, you will no longer have to deal with emails that re-appear at random despite the fact that you’re sure you have deleted them. The new version also adds support for multiple email addresses, so users will be able now to alternate personal emails and still have the address they use for newsletters working on their device. Beta 3 also comes with a wider range of device support and more localization options.
Just like before, the beta trial of Nokia Email service is free, so anyone using it won’t have to worry about costs until the trial period comes to an end, when they will be notified by email. So, if you ever wanted to take part in beta-testing, or if you already are a beta-tester, here's your chance to play with Nokia's Email service for free starting today. All you have to do in order to try out Beta 3 is to go online and access email.nokia.com, and then download the latest Beta 3 of Nokia Email Service.
The only question still left pending is for how long Nokia will continue to release betas for the Nokia Email service, since this has already been a long waiting and most users would like to get the first alpha version available as soon as possible – or even sooner than that. Considering that Beta 3 is finally out, it might just be that the waiting ahead is not that long, but whether this is the case or not only time will tell.
Labels: Nokia
Motorola Officially Announces MOTO Q11 Smartphone
With an affordable price and without 3G support, Motorola has put up the MOTO Q11 smartphone on their product list. The slim MOTO Q11 comes with integrated WiFi, is ideal for people who want a high-speed connection for Internet browsing. Just like other Q-series Motorola smartphone, it has a QWERTY keyboard for fast and easy messaging on-the-go and the integrated GPS for navigation support for popular applications like Google Maps. Equipped with Windows Mobile 6.1, the Q11 enables users to personalize their homescreen and synchronize all contacts, calendar items and email, just like being on a computer.MOTO Q11 Specifications:
* Talk Time: Up to approximately 450 minutes;
* Standby Time: Up to approximately 195 hours
* Bands/Modes: Quad-band GPRS/EDGE Class 10
* Camera: 3 megapixel, LED Flash
* Memory: 128MB Flash, 64 MB RAM, optional microSD card up to 32GB
* Weight: 115g
* Dimensions: 117 x 64 x 11.7 mm
* Battery: 1170 mAH
* MicroUSB/USB 1.1, Bluetooth Class 1 v2.1 wireless technology
* Display: 2.4″ 320 x 240 TFT 262K
* GPS, aGPS, WiFi
* Windows Mobile 6.1
MOTO Q 11 is expected to be available in December 2008.
Labels: Motorola
LG Launches LG-KC780 Slim 8 Megapixel Slider Phone, Available in November
Already mentioned in their previous LG KC910 announcement, LG announced today the launch of its LG-KC780, a slim 8 megapixel camera phone with special features that make it ideal for shooting portraits. The LG-KC780 has about the same thickness as Samsung Pixon at around 13.9 mm (it was previously announced as 13.7mm by LG), comes with a 2.4-inch display screen and a slider form factor phone body. A Schneider-Kreuznach certified lens is used with a maximum of 8 megapixel resolution and 1600 ISO.Several of the LG-KC780’s smart technologies focus around the most expressive part of a person, the face. Face Detection automatically finds and focuses on people’s faces to allow photographers to take clearer pictures. Part of this feature relies on LG’s Smile Detection technology, which can recognize the angle of people’s mouths and adjust focus for faces. With Smile Shot enabled the camera automatically triggers the shutter when it determines that the subject is smiling. And with Beauty Mode users can remove spots and imperfections on people’s faces, making sure the faces appear bright and clear in photos. If an image is too bright, however, LG’s SmartLight setting automatically fixes it. A built-in Image Stabilizer ensures that pictures come out clear and sharp, even in shaky situations.
The LG-KC780 also calls their Bluetooth a Smart Bluetooth. The phone’s camera can be used as a webcam for use in online conversations. Unlike USB webcams, the phone’s camera connects to your PC through the Bluetooth connection. In addition, Smart Bluetooth makes it easier to send and read text messages, allowing them to be typed and viewed on the computer.Unlike other 8 megapixel camera phone who are always packed with lots of wireless connectivity options, The LG KC780 should have a lower price as it comes without 3G, built in WiFi and GPS. LG-KC780 will go on sale in November 2008, in Europe, later expanding to CIS and Asia, including India, Thailand, Hong Kong and China. LG expects that the LG-KC780 will build on the leadership the company established with its multimillion selling Viewty and enhance its lineup of 8 megapixel camera phones, along with the recently released an 8 megapixel touch screen multimedia phone, LG Renoir (LG-KC910).
Labels: LG
Motorola VC6096: UMPC with GPS
Motorola has come up with an Ultra Mobile Personal Computercodenamed VC6096 that has a wide range of features, starting with the many connectivity options, and ending with the good extras.The device has transportation services as the main target, and comes with a fixed mount so it stays steady on a vehicle. In terms of connectivity the VC6096 boasts WiFi (802.11a/b/g), 3.5 GSM, HSDPA, WWAN, and bluetooth. Lastly, there is a GPS receiver - SiRF Star III - so the location of the vehicles is always known 24/7.
As for the hardware list, there is a processor running at 624Mhz, 128MB of RAM, 256MB of internal flash memory, a slot for SD memory cards, and 5 hot-keys. The audio department has a microphone and speakers, while the operative system is Windows Mobile 6.1
Motorola VC6096 promises to maximize driver productivity, improve safety and vehicle utilization.
Labels: Motorola
Samsung YP-P2: BMW Edition
Remember the Samsung YP-P2 that was launched on the US about one year ago? I bet you do because it is a slick portable media player. The good news is that BMW will launch an exclusive edition of the device.This promotional strategy can be considered good and bad at the same time: on one hand you’ve got the BMW and PMP lovers that will surely enjoy the product, on the other hand you’ve got the conservative motorcycle riders that talk about the dangers of being on the road and listening to music at the same time. Who wins this war? Probably the first group.
Anyhow, the Samsung YP-P2 BMW Edition doesn’t have a price yet, but expect it to be high. It will include some kind of promo material, like a BMW logo placed on the front/back, a couple of videos, and some backgrounds.
About the player:
It features a touchscreen interface also known as “EmoTureTM UI” and the display settings are normal for a 3-inch screen that provides a 16:9 aspect ratio.
Labels: Samsung
Mozilla to Announce Firefox Mobile Alpha in a Few Weeks
Chief Executive of Mozilla, John Lilly has revealed in an interview that the company is ready to release Firefox Mobile in few weeks time. “We want to make sure that the Web on mobile is more like the Web than what the mobile industry offers today, which is closed, separate networks and not a very good information-getting experience for the user. The first thing is to bring Firefox to mobile devices. We’re working on that, and we’ll see some alphas in a few weeks.” said John Lilly.This is not the first time we heard about Firefox Mobile and its developer might have already been working on the firefox mobile at least one year ago.
Labels: Mobile web