Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Phones Review

Phones Review

Apple iPad 2 Accessories: Beyzacases Zero Series Case

Posted: 10 May 2011 03:17 PM PDT

If you own an iPad 2 and you want to keep your device protected by a stylish and quality produced case, you can do no better than purchase a Beyzacases Zero Series Case.

Beyzacases are well known for the quality of their mobile accessories and unique designs, and this is no better shown than in their new Zero Series case for the iPad 2.

The Zero Series provides very thin genuine leather cases for a variety of Apple devices, such as the iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, and even MacBook Air.The "Zero" term relates to the thinness of the Zero Series cases, which add no bulk to the carrying of your device. However, do not be put off by the thinness, as the new case will still provide your iPad 2 with protect in the form a soft inner lining, whilst still making the iPad easy to remove.

Please note that the new Zero Series case for the Apple iPad is made from genuine leather and is available in multiple colours – Brown, Tan, Red, White and Black, all with beautiful coloured stitching. The Zero Series case also supports the iPad 2 Sleep function.

Information provided in the article by PadGadget states that shipping for the Zero Series will start on May 31st, for those that just cannot wait you can pre-order yours now for approximately $78 USD. However, please note that Beyzacases are running a pre-order sale, with a 10% discount from now until the end of May – see here.

Please let us know if you like the uniqueness and quality build of the Zero Series case, and also if you will be purchasing one.

Talk or Shout to Charge Mobile Phone

Posted: 10 May 2011 11:02 AM PDT

If you are, sick and tired of being mid way through a conversation on your handset only for the battery to die. Worry no more, as soon the sound of your voice could actually charge the phone's battery.

According to new research findings, it will not be long before mobile phone batteries charge with the sound of the human voice. The research, which was carried out in South Korea by a group of engineers, has reportedly found a way to change sound waves (including those created by the human voice) in to electricity.

There is also an indication by Dr Sang-Woo Kim of Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul, that in the future phone batteries that are equipped with this new technology will also be able to charge themselves from music or background noises even when the device is not in use. This technology could prove to be a god send for devices like the HTC Thunderbolt, which has received some bad reviews regarding battery life since its launch.

In an article by the Telegraph coming to us by way of PCWorld via ITProPortal, Dr Sang-Woo Kim together with his team is presently working on a prototype for this technology, which could possibly convert the sound of about 100 decibels into 50mv of electricity.

Dr Sang-Woo Kim said, “Sound power can be used for various novel applications including cellular phones that can be charged during conversations and sound-insulating walls near highways that generate electricity from the sound of passing vehicles.”

Although the amount of electricity is not enough to fully charge a battery, this is a great achievement and provides a great platform for further improvements. I must say when I first came across this article I had visions of Dom Joly shouting into an large handset – from the 'Trigger Happy' sketches. What do you think of this new technology?

Watch ESPN NBA Sports App for Android: Streaming

Posted: 10 May 2011 09:43 AM PDT

This is one for the Android faithful out there; ESPN has now been brought to the world of the Android smartphone, so you can enjoy your favourite sports whilst on the move.

Are you ready for live ESPN action streamed directly on to your Android device? Well the 'Watch ESPN' app has been released to the market and is available to devices running Android 2.2 and up.

According to an article by the guys at Droid-Life, whilst the Watch ESPN app opens on tablets like the Motorola Xoom the video display is not very good. However, handsets on the other hand seem to be handling the quality of service a bit better.

See tip here – If at first login you choose a service and your denied access, be sure to go "Clear data" on the app and then re-choose a service like FiOS, which definitely works. Please note that a FiOS account is not required, so you can watch streams immediately.

Therefore, why not head on over to Android Market and download this FREE app. Please come back and lets us know what you think of the app – whether good or bad.

iRemoco helicopter: Control via Apple iPhone

Posted: 10 May 2011 08:51 AM PDT

New cool accessories and gadgets are constantly been developed for handsets, to enable us to get more out of our devices. Well I would now like to introduce you to the iRemoco helicopter for iOS Devices.

The iRemoco is a mini helicopter that includes an attachment for your iPhone or iPod Touch. With the use of the dock connector attachment to transmit the signal and an iOS application, you get to have full control of the iRemoco helicopter from your iPhone/iPod. The developers of the iRemoco helicopter are Andrew Ayres and Tom Sisterson have spent 18 months working on this project and finally have it at the mass production stage.

The iRemoco helicopter has a frame made of metal, with the rotor blades made of flexible, durable plastic. It is lightweight and very well designed. The iOS software that accompanies the iRemoco helicopter enables you use the touch screen and even the motion sensor on your iDevice to control the movement of the helicopter.

Unfortunately, the iRemoco is still only a prototype and not available for purchase yet. Please note that it is ready for the market, however the developers need help in raising funds to get the iRemoco into the first round of production. The two developers have formed a business called Ternosis and taken to Kickstarter (a project-funding website) to get iRemoco up and going.

Backers of the cause can pledge $99, which will mean they will get one of these cool gadgets when they start to ship out. If you would like to see the iRemoco helicopter in action why not check out the video over on the iDB, site and then please return to give us your views on this prototype – would you like one?

Apple iPad 2 Accessories: Zero Series, World’s Thinnest Leather Case

Posted: 10 May 2011 07:25 AM PDT

For those iOS faithful with an Apple iPad 2 that require a case that doesn't offer too much bulk to the tablet, but still want a genuine leather protection case, the world's thinnest leather case for the Apple iPad 2 is now available to pre-order.

According to an article over on Daily iPhone Blog, case maker Bayzacases have announced a new series of cases called the "Zero Series," which allow the user to experience "a no-bulk carrying experience with the stylish design of Beyzacases artists."

Apparently the Zero Series is the thinnest genuine leather case ever made in the market and comes in a range of colours and commands a price tag of $54.95; however if you order in the next 21 days you can get the Apple iPad 2 case for $49.95.

Beyzacases also have Zero Series cases available for the iPhone 4, iPod Touch 4th generation and the 11-inch Apple MacBook Air, and they intend to release Zero cases for other brands in the future.

Is The White iPhone 4 A Hero?

Posted: 10 May 2011 07:18 AM PDT

To all mobile users out there, we would like to know of any sticky situation you have found yourself in whereby the use of your handset has been a lifesaver – a real hero!

The idea for this post came from an article done by one of the writers over at IDB, in which one of their readers sent them information regarding the White iPhone 4. Stating that if you go to Apple's website and right click on the white iPhone 4 image on the homepage, then select "image info" or "view image" the name of the image comes up as white_iphone_hero_20110425.jpg.

Unbeknownst to the writer of the article, this was not Apple changing the name of their device or their web team having a laugh, but what is known as a 'hero shot'. In photography the 'hero shot' is the best picture of a series, often chosen to represent the whole series, as per the definition in the Urban Dictionary.

So we would like to know if you have been stuck in any tricky situations with no one to turn too, but you trusty phone. Please let us know how your handset came to your rescue and saved the day. Please note that we would like to hear stories on all handsets not just the White iPhone 4.

HTC Flyer WiFi Only Now Available for Pre-order in UK

Posted: 10 May 2011 06:58 AM PDT

For the Android faithful here in the UK if you are contemplating pre-ordering the WiFi only version of the HTC Flyer tablet when available you may like to know that the Android 2.3 Gingerbread tablet WiFi only model is now available to pre-order.

According to the guys over at Unwired View, the 16GB WiFi only HTC Flyer can now be placed on pre-order over at Expansys with an asking price of some 480 quid, although it is currently unclear just when those that pre-order the Android tablet will actually see it.

The HTC Flyer has previously been placed up for pre-order back in February, but that version was the 3G enabled device, so this is the first time UK WiFi only Android HTC Flyer hopefuls can pre-order the device.

Originally the European HTC Flyer was due release as of yesterday the 9th of May but obviously it didn't happen so the release day can't be that far off one would have thought, so any of our UK readers going to be hitting up Expansys to pre0order the WiFi only HTC Flayer?

Sprint Samsung Google Nexus S 4G Unboxed on Video

Posted: 10 May 2011 06:29 AM PDT

For those that may be sitting on the fence pondering whether to pick up the latest Google device to play nice on Sprint's WiMAX 4G network, namely the Android 2.3 Gingerbread toting Samsung Nexus S 4G, we have a quick unboxing video of the handset for your viewing pleasure below.

The unboxing of the Samsung Nexus S 4G for Sprint video comes our way courtesy of Noah Krativz over at Technobuffalo and delivers almost eight minutes of getting up close and personal with the Android 4G smartphone.

You probably know that the Samsung Nexus S 4G is already available to purchase from Sprint for 199 bucks when signing up for a contract of 2-years length and comes with the latest stock Android OS and is quite similar to the Google Nexus S.

So rather than me rattle on I'll just let you jump on down to hit that play button and check out the unboxing of the Samsung Nexus S 4G smartphone…enjoy.

Rogers Canada Early Upgrade: The Prices

Posted: 10 May 2011 06:17 AM PDT

With have some great news for those in Canada that have handset contracts with Rogers, a new scheme is being rolled out to enable customers to upgrade earlier.

Rogers (a Canadian telecommunications provider) have outlined plans to introduce an early upgrade program that will allow subscribers to upgrade to newer handsets, as early as six months into an existing contract. The customers will need to pay a one off fee that is dependent on the amount of months they have left on their contract, plus a discounted end of contract price for the phone they wish to upgrade too.

Here is a rundown of the extra fees: on contracts for voice or quick messaging devices, the payment is $10 per month remaining. On certain smartphones, tablets and other devices such as hubs and Internet sticks payment is $15 per remaining month and for premium devices like the BlackBerry Torch and iPhone 4 a payment of $20 per month remaining is payable.

We have an example of the deal for your benefit, if a customer with a three-year term wants to upgrade, but is only two years into their plan. Instead of them waiting for 12 months to become eligible to upgrade for $100 to say a Google Nexus S, for example, they can pay a total upgrade price of $280 – which equates to $15 per month multiplied by 12 remaining months ($180) and $100 for the smartphone. Please note that a new three-year plan will be started from the date of purchase. This is compared to a $550 no-term price.

According to the article by staff at Electronista, upgrades have been a difficult on Canadian networks, where the use of three-year contracts are quite common and upgrade periods tend to be longer than those of the U.S. However, there have been some exceptions made for devices such as the iPhone, but still most customers are paying much more to upgrade.

Will you be using this scheme to upgrade early? Please let us know.

Microsoft Skype Acquisition Now Officially Confirmed

Posted: 10 May 2011 05:45 AM PDT

You are probably aware that Microsoft has gone all out to acquire VoIP service provider Skype although up until now it was simply speculation as to whether Microsoft would pull off the purchase, as we reported earlier (here), however it has now been officially confirmed.

According to the guys over on Engadget, Microsoft and Skype have officially announced the Windows Phone 7 company is to acquire Skype for a rather hefty 8.5 billion buck in cold hard cash.

Apparently the official announcement makes "explicit mention" of Windows Phone integration as well as Kinect and Xbox support so probably were key incentive in the deal.

Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO says, “Skype is a phenomenal service that is loved by millions of people around the world. Together we will create the future of real-time communications so people can easily stay connected to family, friends, clients and colleagues anywhere in the world.”

Apparently Skype will become a new business division within Microsoft that will be headed by Skype CEO Tony Bates, who will report directly to Steve Ballmer.

So there you have it, Microsoft is shelling out a huge bundle of bucks to own Skype, do you thing it is a good move for Skype users or not?

WatchESPN App for Android Released Stream Live TV

Posted: 10 May 2011 05:26 AM PDT

For the Android faithful that enjoys streaming live TV to their chosen smartphone the word is the new WatchESPN app for Android has now hit the Android Market and is free to download to your device.

According to the Boy Genius Report, by way of Business Insider, the WatchESNP app for Android enables the user to stream live TV to their Android device over cellular data connections or WiFi.

The WatchESPN app streams live TV from ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3 and ESPNU if you subscribe to partner cable providers along with highlights and video clips from the day's news and sport.

With the WatchESPN app for Android the user gains access to MBA regular season and playoffs, Major League Baseball, College Football and basketball, The Masters, US Open and the Open Championship, all four Grand Slam tennis events, Euro 2012 Soccer, Spanish Premier Division, Barclays Premier League and more.

As stated earlier, the WatchESPN app for Android is available to download to your chosen Android device running Android 2.2 or above for free from the Android Market.

Honeycomb Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 Handled On Video

Posted: 10 May 2011 05:05 AM PDT

Google I/O 2011 begun Yesterday and during the event the latest Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablet out of the Samsung camp was on show for those wishing to touch, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, which my colleague Mark earlier reported the confirmation of a June the 8th release date.

While at Google I/O the guys over at Slash Gear managed to get some playtime with the Samsung galaxy tab 10.1 tablet and recorded the occasion on video, which of course we have for your viewing pleasure below.

The guys say that the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 trumps the Apple iPad 2 when it comes to thinness coming in at just 8.6mm with a weight of 595 grams and sports a 1 GHz dual-core processor, WiFi, Bluetooth and HSPA+ network speeds.

Apparently the tablet shown is running stock Android 3.0 Honeycomb but will launch with TouchWiz UX, so I'll leave it right there as not to spoil any of your viewing enjoyment so all you need to do now is hit that play button and enjoy.

Are any of our readers anticipating snapping up the Samsung Galaxy tab 10.1 as of June the 8th? If so feel free to let us know by dropping us a comment.

Microsoft Buying Skype: New Smartphone Perhaps

Posted: 10 May 2011 04:59 AM PDT

Rumours are circulating that Microsoft are close to buying out Skype. Who knows we may see a new smartphone with Skype integrated features in the future.

Moving on from rumours that Google and Facebook were considering a deal to purchase Skype, we are now hearing the Microsoft are looking to be the likely new owners and are finalising a negotiation that is worth over $7 billion dollars.

It is indicated that there could be an announcement sometime today, this is according to a Wall Street Journal source and coming to us by way of Engadget. Considering the rumoured figure of the deal will be a new record for Microsoft over recent years, it will be interesting to see what Steve Ballmer; Microsoft’s Chief Executive will do with Skype if the deal does go through.

Perhaps we could eventually see a Windows Phone incorporated with integrated Skype features? Which would be a great addition, as it would mean customers would be able to make cheaper phone calls over the Internet from their smartphones, thus avoiding the higher rates incorporated by carriers.

What do you think about the possible purchase of Skype by Microsoft? Would you like to see Skype incorporated into mobile phones? Please let us know.

Android Outguns iPhone in Japanese Market Share

Posted: 10 May 2011 04:36 AM PDT

It would appear that Apple and the iPhone isn't having it all there own way in certain parts of the globe, namely Japan, as apparently Android handsets have surpassed the iconic iOS smartphone in Japan smartphone market share.

According to an article over on Bloomberg, by way of MM Research Institute Ltd, last year Android captured 57% of the Japanese smartphone market share in the last fiscal year slashing Apple's iPhone share. By the end of March Android shipments rose to 4.91 million as compares with sales of 250,000 handsets or 11% of the market a year previous, a year before Android became widely available in Japan.

When it comes to the iPhone in Japan, in the last fiscal year Apple shipped 3.23 million iPhone units accounting for 38% of the Japan smartphone market share, while a year earlier Apple shipped 1.69 million for a 72% share.

However according to the research group Apple apparently remains the most popular smartphone maker in Japan with Sharp, who introduced their first Android handset back in June 2010 is in second place with 24% share while Sony Ericsson's Xperia with 9.8%.

Apple iPad Adobe Photoshop iOS Apps Available

Posted: 10 May 2011 04:07 AM PDT

For the iOS faithful that enjoy a bit of photo manipulation last week Adobe updated their Photoshop so it could work with apps for the Apple iPad and now the word is Adobe has release said apps for download from iTunes.

The guys over at 9to5 Mac discovered the Adobe Photoshop apps, which are Adobe Nav, Adobe Color Lava and Adobe Eazel and are all just for the Apple iPad, so lets see what each of the iOS apps does…

First off is the Adobe Color Lava app that enables the user to mix colours and create custom swatches, is interactive with Photoshop CS5 in real time, tapping on a swatch on your Apple iPad will make the foreground colour in your Photoshop CS5 panel.

With the Adobe Color Lava app the user can make fine adjustments using the hue and saturation sliders along with viewing RGB and HSB values and share swatches by emailing from the Adobe Coloe Lava app. The Adobe Color Lava app can be downloaded from iTunes at a cost of 2.99.

Next we have the Adobe Eazel app for the Apple iPad, with this iOS app the user can get colour blends via a painting tech that offers a new type of interaction between wet and dry paint with a unique UI that allows the user to paint across the whole expanse of the Apple iPad.

Adobe Eazel enables the user to paint with their fingertips and features controls for changing colour, brush size, opacity and others, save paintings to the Apple iPad photos app and shave as a Jpeg via email. The Adobe Eazel app is available from iTunes at a cost of $4.99.

Lastly we have Adobe Nav for the iPad, an app that allows the user to customise the way the Photoshop CS5 toolbar shows up on the iPad display and can save 1 Nav toolbar with up to 16 tools, and also the ability to view, reorder and zoom in on 200 open Photoshop docs on your display.

With the Adobe Nav app the user taps on any open document on their Apple iPad to make said document an active doc in Photoshop CS5. The Adobe Nav iOS app for the iPad is available from iTunes at a cost of $1.99.

We also have courtesy of the guys over at 9to5 Mac three promo videos of all three Adobe Photoshop Apple iPad apps for your viewing pleasure below…enjoy.
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