T-Mobile G2 gets an early unboxing

T-Mobile's official street date for the G2 is Wednesday next week, but we knew some pre-orderers would be getting the phone early, and it looks like we've already got an unboxing to show for it. Rugged, free-spirited tipster Silverwolfe did the honors, and even managed to size the phone up against the original G2 while he was at it. Check out a few shots below, or hit up the source link for the full gallery.

Via : engadget

Nokia N8 vs. iPhone 4

What's the first thing you should do when you get the N8? Considering it packs the biggest image sensor embedded in a phone yet, Carl Zeiss optics, and an eight-digit pixel count, it seemed obvious to us that the answer was to take it on a picture- and video-taking stroll around London. On our way out we saw our iPhone 4 looking all sad and lonely, so we went ahead and brought it along as well. Below you shall find one gallery of pure, unadulterated N8 sample shots, another interspersed with the iPhone's results for comparison's sake, and a final one with side-by-side 100 percent crops from each image taker. Once you've digested all of those, we suggest hopping past the break and tucking into some tasty video comparisons for dessert.

Naturally, all the images are entirely unretouched (but for our masterly watermarking) and the iPhone 4's HDR hocus pocus has been left off. We've also provided a zip file containing all the full-res imagery shot with the N8 in a link below.

A quick note is also merited about the N8's resolution. The sensor's display ratio is 4:3, which means that full 12 megapixel shots are only available in those dimensions. The camera software, however, defaults to shooting 9 megapixel snaps at the increasingly popular 16:9 ratio -- this is done simply by cropping away the "excess" bars at the top and bottom of the image, meaning that the 9 megapixel images are giving us identical performance as the 12 megapixel ones, they're just chopped down (from 4000 x 3000 to 4000 x 2248) for the sake of convenience. Now, on with the show!

Read More @ engadget

NOKIA X6 ON ORANGE LESS THAN £25 A MONTH

The Nokia X6 is for all you music lovers out there. While the iPhone of course has the pedigree of coming from the same family as the iPod, the music experience has become diluted thanks to Apple’s shifting focus to apps and other smartphone operations. The Nokia X6 on the other hand is a music phone for music purists. And its a whole lot cheaper than the iPhone as well.

First of all let me highlight the non-music highlights of the Nokia X6. With a nicely slim design, big capacitive touchscreen and a camera that takes considerably above-average photos, it is certainly a decent, if unspectacular all-round smartphone.

But all of this is unimportant, as if you decide to go for the Nokia X6, it will be because of its music capabilities. The first thing that hints at the X6′s focus is the 16GB of internal storage packed into it.

Filling up all of this space is a real pleasure, as Nokia have built a programme that rivals iTunes for usability and in fact has some extra features that make it an even better platform for transferring music.

As well as the usual USB linking between device and PC, you can also transfer music over bluetooth. This is a real lifesaver if you are on the move and don’t want to be constantly trailing a USB cable after you. Downloading music is also extremely easy and the whole process just feels very intuitive and fluid.

As for actually playing your haul of music, the X6 packs a good multimedia player. It is simple yet very effective, with the usual set of navigation options making browsing through your collection very easy. Again bluetooth support is good, as it is a matter of a couple of presses of the touchscreen and your bluetooth headphones will be paired and ready to play music.

Though extras such as the camera could have easily just be thrown in as an afterthought, given the focus on music playback, Nokia have instead added a very impressive and significantly above-average camera. Shooting in 5 Megapixels and with high-quality shots, especially closeups, the X6 more than competes on the standard cameraphone front as well.

The cherry on the top of the Nokia X6 is that you can get the whole package for just £22.50 a month on Orange. With Orange Wednesdays and Magic Numbers as added little extras to enjoy, you more than get value for money.

Via : wirelesstechnews

Unlimited Music Downloads with Nokia 5230

T-Mobile’s big Christmas push is beginning now – yes – on the first of October. But their impressive package on the Nokia 5230 and you’ll forgive them for shouting about this one early.

One can throw around a term like ‘unlimited’ and there’s generally a catch, something in the small print to be wary of – especially if the word ‘music’ follows on….

Something like ‘when you top up £10′ or ‘for November only’. But this time there really are no strings.

So ‘unlimited music’ from the Nokia Ovi Store for a year. Unlimited downloads from their catalogue of 10 million tracks. Unlimited in the sense that it won’t cost you another penny after you put up £99.99 for the PAYG handset, and you can download every one of those 10 million. Unlimited in that you can forgo eating, sleeping, moving and working for the sake of clicking track after album to complete your encyclopedia of music.

More @ geeks.co.uk

Nokia E7 turned the most heads

Nokia has carried out a poll to find out which phone was most popular at Nokia World – and the Nokia E7 was the runaway winner.

The smartphone, which is due to be released in early 2011, received 70 per cent of the vote.

Its nearest rival is the Nokia C7 on 13.5 per cent, with its sister the Nokia C6-01 following on 10.5 per cent.

The Nokia C3 Touch and Type brings up the rear with just six per cent of the vote.

Nokia says the E7 is expected to retail at €495 (£414) pre-tax and subsidies. It packs a four-inch touchscreen, slide-out full QWERTY keyboard, Ovi Maps and Ovi Store pre-loaded, Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync for accessing and editing work documents, access to work email inboxes and personal email and Nokia’s ClearBlack Display technology.

The Nokia C7 and C6 are expected to go on sale from October onwards – just in time to make it on to our Christmas gifts list.

The Nokia C7 will cost €335 (£280) and the Nokia C6 will set you back €260 (£217), both prices are excluding tax and subsidies.

The former is a slim touchscreen with an eight-megapixel camera, 3.5-inch touchscreen and social networking integrated, including global social networking, such as China’s Renren, as well as Facebook and Twitter.

Via : mobileshop

Motorola ES400S earns its keep on Sprint in October

You may not remember the Motorola ES400 announced back in June; it's the first device to run Microsoft's Windows Embedded Handheld platform, after all -- an offshoot of WinMo 6.5.3 -- and doesn't have a whole lot of relevance to the average consumer. Well, let this be your refresher: Sprint has revealed that it intends to launch its own version of the phone, the ES400S, through a variety of Sprint sales channels next month, marking the first time an enterprise-oriented Moto has been branded and offered directly by a carrier.

It meets a variety of standards for ruggedness and includes a 3-inch VGA display, full QWERTY keyboard, 3.2 megapixel camera (which actually performs the barcode scanning duties, not a traditional laser scanner), 802.11a / b / g, GPS, and both CDMA with EV-DO Rev. A and GSM / HSPA for international use.

You get a 1540mAh battery in the box, but a whopping 3080mAh unit is available separately if you plan on enterprisin' away from a charger for days on end. "Qualified" businesses will be able to get in on the ES400S starting sometime before the end of October for $499.99, while average Joes will have the option of paying $549.99 on a new two-year deal. Follow the break for the press release.

Via : engadget

Taser shotgun firm shoots itself in foot

Controversy continues to dog a non-lethal weapon called the Taser shotgun.

The "X12" Taser shotgun is made by Taser International of Scottsdale, Arizona and fires a battery-packed 12-bore shell with forward-facing barbs that deliver a debilitating electric shock.

In August last year, New Scientist revealed research that showed an early version of the weapon was both difficult to aim accurately, putting victims' eyes at risk, and sometimes delivered a shock for more than five minutes, rather than 20 seconds.

Such issues were part of the reason that the Taser shotgun went into a programme of testing in the labs of the UK Home Office's Scientific Development Branch (HOSDB).

The weapon is still being tested at the HOSDB lab and has not been approved for use by UK police forces.

Yet it emerged in July that the weapon had been fired by police attempting to subdue a killer named Raoul Moat in an armed standoff in Northumbria, in the north of England.

It turned out that Pro-Tect Systems of Daventry, Northamptonshire, a company set up in 2000 to import US-made Taser stunguns of all types into the UK, had supplied the unapproved Taser shotgun to the Northumbria police.

Yesterday, the UK Home Office issued a statement revoking Pro-Tect's licence to sell any Taser weapons. "Pro-Tect breached its licence by supplying X12 Tasers direct to police that were only available for supply to the Home Office Science and Development Branch," the Home Office says. Its licence expires on 30 September.

It may seem harsh, but the breach of Pro-Tect's licence - issued under the UK Firearms Act - is described by Sky News as "very, very serious indeed".

The Home Office says Pro-Tect may seek a judicial review of its decision. A Pro-Tect spokesman said: "For legal reasons we are not issuing any comment on this."

The Taser shotgun is already in use in a number of US police departments. This account by Taser International describes one example of its use in 2009.

Via : newscientist

Canada: Acer Liquid E is now also available from Fido

The Acer Liquid E is basically the original Acer Liquid with Android 2.1 thrown in for good measure, as opposed to the original’s ancient 1.6 version of the mobile OS.

The Acer Liquid E has been available on Rogers in Canada for some time now, but today Fido also started selling it. If you are or intend to become a Fido customer, the Liquid E can be yours for $30 with a new 3-year contract or $375 without a contract.

This is Fido’s first Android smartphone, but there’s a good chance that others will start joining it pretty soon. After all, the smartphone revolution is in full swing, and not even Canadian carriers can afford to ignore it.

Via : unwiredview

Fido releases first Android: Acer Liquid E

Fido has released another smartphone and their first Android-powered device, the Acer Liquid e. This can be yours for $30 on a 3-year contract or $375 no contract.

From now on you can expect more smartphones (and more Android devices) to trickle down from Rogers lineup to Fido. The reason is more handset competition from the mid-level carriers and that customers are demanding devices that can do more than talk and text. Bell’s Virgin Mobile started to bring on smartphones when they hopped on to HSPA back on February 2nd. TELUS’ Koodo Mobile has also started to release smartphones over the past few months. The entry level devices will be left for Solo Mobile and Chatr.

As for the specs of the Fido Liquid e: comes with a 3.5-inch display, 768MHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, 5 megapixel camera with video capabilities, WiFi, full HTML browser, GPS, Bluetooth, 3.5mm headset jack, holds up to 32GB. Overall dimensions are 116×54×12.75mm with a weight of 135 grams.

Via : mobilesyrup.com

Source : Fido

HP Envy 15 and Envy 14 with Radiance display no longer available through HP,

Well, this is depressing. Earlier today we were tipped off on disappearance of the Envy 15 on HP's site, and according to the company it'll no longer be available through HP. Obviously, you can still snatch up the 15.6-inch version of HP's magnesium alloy rig through other e-tailers, but there's no telling how long they'll be in stock. The vanishing of the Envy 15 happens to make a lot of sense with the introduction of the Envy 14, but there's also something fishy going on with that one. The machine, which we do love so, doesn't have an option to be configured with HP's brighter Radiance panel any longer. HP wouldn't comment on future plans, but did confirm that the Radiance panel is no longer available on the 14. We'll be keeping an ear to the ground for further updates, but it's on you to bring the tissues next time.

Though it's little consolation for nature-loving outdoor laptop enthusiasts, there is a silver lining in this cloud -- the Envy 14's now showing a new set of powerful CPU options, up to and including that 2.66GHz Core i5-580M we've been lusting after for months.

Buy @ HP Envy

Nokia N8 shipments begin, usher in Symbian^3 era

Nokia's N8 is now shipping to those of you who pre-ordered. It may not be the device that'll make you leave your beloved BlackBerry, iPhone, or Android phone but Nokia's N8 with its significantly enhanced Symbian^3 OS is without a doubt the best you can do if you're one of the millions of Symbian users looking for a smartphone upgrade. Having said that, fans of cameraphones on any platform might be swayed by the N8's 12 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss lens, xenon flash, extra large image sensor, and HDMI out. Nokia says that availability will vary by country and operator and should be everywhere within the coming weeks.

Via : engadget

Nokia N8 first unboxing

Nokia said Q3, Nokia has delivered Q3. Just. The long-awaited first shipments of the Finnish market leader's N8 handset are today finally going out, and we've gotten our hands on one of the very first retail units out there. Gaze upon the gallery below to see what you'll be getting inside the box alongside your multimedia powerhouse, and do make full use of our comments section too -- we want to hear any questions you may have about the N8 and will try to answer them in full, both here and in our full review, which is naturally coming up soon!

Via : engadget

Denon introduces AirApple Play CD receiver in Japan

Apple will succeed where other failed lamentably in Japan several years ago, and lord I whished I could remember the name of the technology used 6 years ago on Sony, Sharp, Kenwood, Pioneer and Denon Compact Hi-Fi that was actually doing pretty much the same as Apple AirPlay but failed to catch-on.

Anyway, Denon has for us today in Japan a new Compact CD player the RCD-N7, your average Compact Hi-Fi with Radio and CD player but coming with Wi-Fi, DLNA ver1.5, iPod & iPhone 4 Dock and Apple AirPlay support.

Less Sexy but still pretty much useful, our RCD-N7 comes with Windows Media Player 11 support as well as being capable to handle the following media type MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV (linear PCM), WMA Lossless and FLAC.

Also compatible with Denon iPod Touch and iPhone “Remote App” the RCD-N7 and also features a “VTuner” for Internet Radio.

Via : en.akihabaranews.com

Jabra Go 660 Bluetooth headset 'solution' pairs an Extreme with a USB adapter

Jabra certainly loves to trumpet the noise cancellation abilities of its Bluetooth headsets, and while our own experiences haven't quite lived up to the hype,

we always look forward to the company's latest name for its noise cancellation tech. Disappointing, then, that the new Jabra Go 660 "headset solution" (with its Extreme ear jewelry) is said to be the company's "first Bluetooth headset with Noise Blackout Extreme.

" That's despite the Stone shipping with tech that went by the same name this time last year. Hopefully that system has been improved since then and will now actually live up to its name, putting background noise in a headlock and rendering it completely unconscious.

In addition to the headset you get a USB Bluetooth adapter for a computer so that you can quickly go from VOIP to voicemail. The Go 660 is available now for $110, including the adapter -- which of course you won't need if your system is already down with the Bluetooth.

Via : engadget.com
Buy @ Jabra

R2-D2 Droid 2 gets official at $249

The Droid 2 came into this world with the expectation of becoming the next best Droid to hit the market. After the original Droid’s success the Droid 2, surely faced some big shoes to fill. While it has not created the buzz the original created, for obvious reasons, the Droid 2 seemingly has had a successful launch. But what about the R2-D2 version that we have heard about since the days of rumor, well my young Jedi’s the time has come to make your D2 an R2-D2!

Verizon has officially announced the launch of their new R2-D2 branded Droid 2. The device is priced at $249 with the signing of a new two year contract, and a $100 mail in rebate. There is no indication of the off contract or retail price of the R2-D2 and it is rumored that the option will not be available. However, guesstimates put the retail price of the unit at around $650 according to Droid-Life. The Droid 2 R2-D2 will be made available on September 30th, some Verizon stores will be opening at midnight the 29th expecting hordes of young Jedi’s that have been waiting this day. The price of the new device will get you a new contract as well as a cool looking device and if that wasn’t sweet enough, a perfect companion for R2-D2 a Star-Wars themed docking station. The handset will also come equipped with a slew of different Star-Wars themed, live wall papers, sounds, widgets, photos, and even a binocular app. Details from the press release;

* R2-D2 notification sounds and ringtones
* Four live wallpapers
* R2-D2 Clock Widget
* “The Best of R2-D2” video with the original Cantina music
* Exclusive Binoculars App

While the rumor of the new R2-D2 Droid 2 running a 1.2 GHz processor is not noted or even mentioned, it will surely show face in the near future. Also with the new Star-Wars themed phone comes some goodies to all Verizon customers that run Android 2.1 or higher. The new Empire Strikes Back app will be made available for 2.99 and will test your knowledge of the series. Along with the following goodies,

* Bounty Hunt Visual ID: Find and capture images around the Star Wars universe to unlock hidden content
* Sound and Photo Gallery
* Live Wallpapers: Blast the Probe Droid, Luke Balancing Yoda, Navigating the Asteroid Field, Watch Bespin’s Cloud City
* Trivia Challenge: Answer trivia questions about the Empire Strikes Back
* Widgets

Via : blog.wirelessground.com

Verizon’s Motorola Droid 2 R2-D2 limited edition officially arrives

If the original Droid 2 is too boring for you, Verizon has you covered with the Motorola Droid R2-D2 limited edition, which has just been officially announced.

Available at Verizon starting September 30 (this Thursday), the Droid 2 R2-D2 will cost $249 after a $100 mail-in rebate (new 2-year contract agreement required).

Featuring a cover painted to remind us of the R2-D2 Droid from Star Wars, the smartphone is offered with a Star Wars media dock and wired stereo headset, and is packaged “in a custom box resembling carbonite.” It also features exclusive content: R2-D2 ringtones and notification sounds, an R2-D2 Clock Widget, live wallpapers, a Binoculars App, and “The Best of R2-D2” video.

Via : unwiredview

Sony Ericsson’s LiveView Accessory Gives You a Quick Look at Your Phone

Accessories for devices these days are usually run-of-the-mill. Aside from a few cool ones from Samsung – such as the keyboard dock for the Galaxy Tab and the USB-HDMI out for their Galaxy S devices – they are always pretty much the same. Sony Ericsson’s come up with a cool one for their Xperia phones, however, called LiveView. This isn’t the official marketing term, but I like to call it a “bundle of joy the size of a pocket watch.” Too corny for you yet? I know, it’s early and I haven’t had my McDonald’s roasted coffee.

Anywho, LiveView is a small LCD screen that – at a glance – shows you a count of notifications on your device from different sources such as email, Twitter, Facebook, calendar reminders, missed calls, and more. It even allows you to control your device’s music. Take a look at the video above to get the full gist of things.

It communicates with your device using Bluetooth and it’s said that the battery will last four days on a full charge – not too bad. They list official support for all of their Xperia devices, of course, but profess that it works with many other brands with Android 2.0+ so a long list of those of us without Sony Ericsson phones don’t get left out. I hope this wasn’t the exciting announcement Ericsson’s CEO was talking about last week. I still want my PSP Phone. Nevertheless, this is still pretty cool. Anyone looking to snatch one up?

Via : phandroid.com

BlackBerry’s PlayBook Tablet

BlackBerry’s PlayBook Tablet – The maker of BlackBerry, Research in Motion (RIM), has revealed at a developer conference on Monday its newest gadget which is the PlayBook, a tablet computer. It will be released in 2011.

Currently, the tablet market has been dominated by Apple (AAPL, Fortune 500) and its famous iPad, however, the other tech companies are still trying to cash in as well.

The co-chief executive of RIM, Mike Lazaridis, said at the BlackBerry Developer conference in San Francisco that every successful professional has a great PlayBook. He did not name the price.

The PlayBook tablet features a 7-inch screen, Flash-capable video and a front and rear high-definition camera. It is thin with a measurement of 9.7 millimeters and it weighs 0.9 pounds. Furthermore, it includes a 1GHz dual-core processor and 1 GB of RAM. It is compatible with HDMI video output and Bluetooth, as well as microHDMI and microUSB.

As of now, the PlayBook can connect to the Internet only via Wi-Fi. However, RIM said it plans to offer 3G and 4G models sometime in the future. Despite of this, Lazaridis still said the company’s goal was to offer an uncompromised Web experience.

Although the tablet won’t use RIM’s newly launched BlackBerry 6 operating system, it has been built around a new platform from QNX Software Systems that has been acquired by the company earlier this year.

Via : keenobservers.com

Blackberry PlayBook: the latest competitor for iPad

esearch in Motion (RIM), the makers of the Blackberry, have revealed details – and images – of the PlayBook, the machine they hope will prove to be an iPad killer. The tablet device won’t go on general sale until early in 2011, however.

The new handheld machine was revealed at at RIM's annual Blackberry developer’s conference in San Francisco yesterday with some pomp. Despite its name, RIM president Mike Lazaridis claimed the PlayBook was the "world's first professional tablet".

He said: "RIM set out to engineer the best professional-grade tablet in the industry with cutting-edge hardware features and one of the world's most robust and flexible operating systems.

"The BlackBerry PlayBook solidly hits the mark with industry leading power, true multitasking, uncompromised web browsing and high performance multimedia."

The PlayBook is the third entry into the market dominated by Apple since it launched the iPad in April this year. At the beginning of this month, Samsung launched its own offering, the Galaxy Tab.

The spec for the PlayBook contains no great surprises: it is pretty much as rumours and leaks had painted it. The seven-inch screen is 2.7 inches smaller than the iPad’s and the same size as the Galaxy Tab's.

The PlayBook is significantly lighter than the iPad at 400g to Apple's 680g – 730g, and just 20g heavier than the Galaxy Tab. It is also expected to be slightly cheaper than Apple’s machine.

PLAYBOOK, THE SPECS:

7in touchscreen

• BlackBerry Tablet OS built on architecture by recently-acquired QNX

• 1 GHz dual-core processor

• 1 GB RAM

• HD video playback

• HDMI video outputJuly 7 2008:

• Bluetooth 2.1

• MicroHDMI and microUSB ports

• Support for Adobe Flash Player 10.1

• Dimensions: 5.1″x7.6″x0.4″

• Weight: 400g

• Able to connect to BlackBerry Enterprise Servers

• Pairing with BlackBerry handsets

• Ability to connect to 3G network on existing BlackBerry data plan


Via : thefirstpost.co.uk

BlackBerry announces PlayBook tablet

BlackPad sounded a bit too much like the name of a children’s book pirate for us. But PlayBook just sounds like a children’s book. And that’s the name BlackBerry has bestowed on its new 7in tablet, due to launch early in 2011.

BlackBerrys have always had quite good names – Curve, Pearl, Bold, Storm, Torch – so we’re not sure where the kindergarten-themed PlayBook fits into that lot. Luckily, that’s where our complaints end. RIM’s new tablet looks ace in every other way.

Designed as a sibling device to a BB smartphone, it runs a new tablet-specific version of BlackBerry OS, and hardware includes a 1GHz dual-core chip, 1GB RAM and a stunning 7in HD multi-touch screen.

There are also a pair of cameras (5MP on the back, 3MP on the front) that will support video calling and – more excitingly – full HD (1080p) video capture. There’s also HDMI out for piping those vids (or other video stored locally) to a bigger screen.

It’s Wi-Fi only, but can also connect via Bluetooth 2.1 and RIM says it will have a 3G version in future. BlackBerry says the PlayBook is designed to always sync with your (BlackBerry) smartphone, so you can choose which one to take with you at any time without worrying about where your data is.

Best of all, it looks stunning at just 10mm thin and weighs only 400g. Plus the new OS looks pretty cool. We’ll be banging on RIM’s door for a sample asap and bringing you more news as we get it.

Via : stuff.tv

BlackBerry PlayBook to challenge Apple iPad

BlackBerry makers RIM chose its BB DevCon in San Francisco to introduce its brand spankin’ new tablet, the BlackBerry PlayBook. It’s been announced for an early 2011 launch in North America, with the rest of the world looking to get their mits on BB’s slate by March the same year.

The new tablet drops BlackBerry’s OS altogether – running instead on a newly developed BlackBerry Tablet OS SDK, which will be shipped out to app developers in the next few weeks.

It packs a 7in screen (similar to the Samsung Galaxy Tab’s 7in stunner) and is powered by a 1GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM and unlike Apple’s ‘Pad, the ability to multi-task and run Flash 10.1.

We’ve scored the specs – so everything you need to know about BlackBerry’s little tablet is below:

* The 7in LCD has a WSVGA resolution of 1024×600, is a capacitive touchscreen with full multi-touch support
* BlackBerry Tablet OS
* 1GHz dual-core processor
* 1GB RAM
* Dual HD cams (3MP front-facing, 5MP rear) and supports full 1080p video recording
* It can handle 1080p video playback in H.264, MPEG, DivX and WMV
* HDMI output
* Wi-fi is N-flavoured
* Bluetooth 2.1
* Webkit browser
* Measures 130mm x 193mm x 10mm
* And RIM plans to launch both 4G and 3G speeds at the same time

Via : stuffmideast.com

Binatone launched Android 1.6 OS Tablet in India at price of Rs. 9,000

Binatone, leading UK telecommunication honcho is all set to enter Indian digital market with the launch of tablet named Home SurfTouch, powered by Android 1.6 operating system. Binatone is renowned name in UK for telephonic device manufacturing. Binatone manufactures cellphone devices, satellite phones, GPS devices, telephone devices and Internet devices.

The Executive Vice President Binatone India, Sat Murthi, strongly conveyed that Home SurfTouch device has been “Indianized” as they have kept in mind the common Indian youth computing needs and price sensitivity factor. He also confirmed that Binatone is going to invest Rs. 50 crores in coming 12 months to introduce Binatone’s manufactured devices.

According to Mr. Murthi, Binatone’s Home SurfTouch is designed to offer power saver, enhanced audio output and other special indianized features. Moreover, he also optimistically commented that Binatone will also launch other devices focusing rural markets in India, which are looking for power-friendly, affordable and quality product.

Meanwhile, Home SurfTouch tablet will be powered by Android 1.6 OS, and will be integrated with WiFi, 128MB RAM and ARM 11‘s 667 MHz processor. Home SurfTouch tablet will be one of the slimmest tablet in the world, which makes it handy and comfortable to operate.

On, Home SurfTouch tablet, users will be able to browse Internet, play videos and audio files, download simple games, and access applications supported by long battery life. The most attractive thing about Home SurfTouch tablet is its price tag of Rs. 9,000, which totally defeat its competitors.

In India, Apple’s iPad Touch is available to purchase in Indian markets, whereas, Olive India and Notion India are going to launch Android based tablet in the price range of Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 30,000. Though, Olive India’s tablet will be operated by Android 2.2 Froyo! Nevertheless, at the price tag of Rs. 9,000, Home SurfTouch seems to be most exciting buy.

Via : ic-technews.com

Binatone Launches Android Tablet in India

Binatone, a UK based manufacturer of landline phones and GPS devices, has announced the launch of its Android based tablet in India.

The tablet, known as the Home Surf Touch Tablet, comes loaded with Android 1.6 and is quite a sleek looker. It boasts of an 8-inch resistive screen and supports Wi-Fi, 2 GB onboard storage and has 128 MB of RAM.

The tablet is powered by an ARM 11 667 MHz processor. While the specs might not be top-of-the-line, you get a decent tablet for the price - especially when you compare the speculated price of the iPad and the Galaxy Tab (which are expected to cost way beyond the Rs. 20k mark) whenever they are launched in India.

Binatone plans to invest Rs. 50 crores in the next 12 months in technology, product development and marketing. A company spokesperson added that Binatone products are 'Indianized' with special features like 'Audio boost', 'Power saver' and 'Binatone Zone', which all have been carefully market researched and implemented to address the specific Indian needs

The Binatone Tablet has been priced at Rs. 8,995 which seems a great price for an Android based tablet. Hopefully, we'd be reviewing one of these soon!

Via : techtree

VAIO Refreshes Line for Winter Season

It’s not just new winter coats you’re seeing this fall hit store shelves. Today, the Sony VAIO® division has released a variety of updated models in preparation of this holiday season. Available today on SonyStyle.com, this fall’s update reveals not only new CPU options but a few other enhancements.

Over the last 6 months, the VAIO E series have been continuing to impress with the launch of a variety of color options, screen sizes and colorized accessories. Last week you saw the VAIO E Series deliver with the return of the extremely popular and requested purple model option. Formally called “Passion Purple, we’ve already seen a lot of props from our fans on Facebook. Once again the VAIO EB/EA/EC series made its mark in our latest round of announcements by providing new CPU options.

Now the pre-built and customized models include the just released Intel® CPUs , the Ci5-580 and Ci5-460M,for those looking for more performance, and also a new Pentium™ processor for those looking for an even more affordable option. Another new addition is the option of 1GB graphics card for EA and EB (EC already had it), which is something we’ve heard several requests for.

Additionally the EB/EC models also have added full HD display options for the first time. Oh and if you didn’t already draw a giant heart in your binder with “VAIO E series” inside, the Sony Style team is offering a free full HD upgrade on all brand new customized EB & EC laptops (while supplies last and offer ends on 10/9/10).

More @ blog.discover.sonystyle.com

Here Comes the Microsoft Kin Knockoff

Do you remember Microsoft’s Kin phone? It is dead just six weeks after launch, and now we have a knockoff for it. It’s a Kin One clone, and it’s called Haina G22 or X5-01.

This Kin One knockoff is a squircle-shaped slider that literally fits in the palm of your hand, just like the original.

It’s got the crappy specs- a tinyish 2.2 inches QVGA display, dual SIM dual standby, FM radio, Bluetooth, micro-USB port, 3.5mm audio jack, a 1.3-megapixel main camera with flash and a 0.3-megapixel front camera.

It’s powered by a 108Mhz MT6253 chip and supports GSM only. With its 1050mAh battery, we think it has an acceptable battery life.

Via : micgadget.com

Acer Aspire TimelineX series updated with new processor options

It really does feel like it was just yesterday that Acer released its new TimelineX series, but believe it or not, it's processor upgrade time for the thin and light lappie line. The 11.6-inch Aspire TimelineX 1830T will now be available with ultra-low voltage Core i3, i5 and i7 CPU options, though Acer's pushing the $900 Core i7 680UM-powered version (the 1830T-68U118) rather hard.

If you're looking for that sort of power in a 3.1-pound chassis, it's not all that bad of a deal, especially considering the similarly spec'd Lenovo IdeaPad U160 costs north of $1,000. We are a bit skeptical of Acer's eight hour battery life claim on that one, however.

The other TimelineX machines -- the 13.3-inch 3820T, 14-inch 4820T and the 15.6-inch 5820T -- are also being injected with more standard voltage Core i3 and i5 processor options, and those will start around the $700 mark. All the new models should be available at retailers soon, and those dying for some more configuration details should hit the break for the full press release.

Via : engadget

Hewlett Packard Introduced HP Envy 17 3D

Hewlett Packard has introduced its latest 3D laptop, which is named as HP Envy 17 3D. This HP Envy 17 3D is the first 17-inch notebook PC that supports 1080p 3D and Blu-ray. This latest laptop is having a 3D-capable full HD Ultra Bright View display.

HP Envy 17 3DHewlett Packard Introduced HP Envy 17 3D Laptop is having the features like Blu-ray optical drive, Beats Audio with a Triple Bass Reflex subwoofer, 3D active shutter glasses, Intel’s Core i7 processor, ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5850 dedicated graphics and its ATI Eyefinity technology for multiple external display support up to 2TB of storage capacity.

To get this HP Envy 17 3D laptop, you have to wait till next year. There is no information about the price details.

Via : connectstat

Nokia eyeing Windows Phone 7 as third OS strategy?

With both Nokia fans and analysts crying out for the Finnish company to ditch Symbian, we’ve usually heard Android put forward as the obvious choice for its replacement. However, according to VentureBeat‘s “trusted source”, we should actually be looking to Microsoft instead. They’ve heard that Nokia is “likely to use Windows Phone 7 as an additional platform,” along with that the company’s board has given new CEO Stephen Elop broad-ranging powers to change previously set-in-stone OS decisions.

VentureBeat also suggests that new Nokia CTO Rich Green is currently working on due-diligence to assess the potential for the company’s software assets to merge with Microsoft’s, though they also say that merger talks themselves are yet to take place. Meanwhile an announcement in less than two weeks time is predicted, where AT&T will supposedly confirm it will be offering the Nokia N8.

Frankly this still doesn’t ring quite true, with Nokia’s previous arguments against Android – that it would be putting control of their handsets’ OS into the hands of someone else – also making sense for Windows Phone 7. Still, if WP7 was indeed a separate branch of Nokia’s hardware efforts, not replacing either Symbian or MeeGo, then it could potential provide a bridging solution between now and the arrival of Symbian^4 handsets onto the market.

Update: Nokia has been in touch to reiterate that their platform strategy hasn’t changed. ”Our platforms are Series 40, Symbian and MeeGo” the company told us; “that stance was reinforced strongly by our management during Nokia World, and we currently have no plans to use other operating systems.”

Via : slashgear

Nokia E7 next generation phone with incoming touchscreen and qwerty keyboard

What can have so special the Nokia E7? Well the Nokia E7 model has an awesome design. Looks like the Nokia E7 is the future of the upcoming Nokia models. Nokia unveiled in London during the Nokia World 2010 new models including a touchscreen smartphone with qwerty keyboard, the Nokia E7. As you can see from the picture the Nokia E7 has a screen very very comfortable 4 inches.

The screen is touchscreen, but to meet the needs of less accustomed to the systems touch Nokia has equipped this device qwerty keyboard. The keyboard is hidden below the screen and can be slid out of the need as happens for example in the Nokia N97. The Nokia E7 is obviously equipped with GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth and a high performance camera with 8 megapixels. The camera is also equipped with autofocus and flash.

The Symbian operating system is installed 3.The Nokia E7 will cost about 670 $. Nokia E7, the ultimate in business smartphones. With Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync on board the card, the Nokia E7 provides safe and direct access to real-time corporate e-mail mailboxes and other personal applications. Equipped with a touch screen 4 “(102 mm) improved for greater visibility abroad with Nokia technology, ClearBlack and a full keyboard, the Nokia E7 conquest to business users because of its shape and size perfect for working on documents , review worksheets or read and edit slides.

The estimated price is EUR 495, excluding taxes and subsidies. Nokia C7 is a stylish smartphone developed for social networks. Lets get live updates from social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, and keep the accounts of Yahoo or Gmail directly on the screen. Nokia C7 The screen incorporates a 3.5 “(89 mm) and a stunning combination of stainless steel and glass bordered by soft edges. We have not estimated the price.

Via : easternews.net

Sony To Launch Google TV On October 12th

We have been hearing more and more about Google TV recently, now Sony has announced that they will launch the worlds first Internet television on October the 12th.

Sony has sent out invites to a special event they are holding in New York on October the 12th 2010, and they are claiming it is the launch of the worlds first Internet TV
.

Sony obviously intends to start selling their new Google TV enabled TVs fairly soon, probably before Christmas. It will be interesting to see what they come up with and how Google TV is integrated into their range of televisions.

We can expect to see many more manufacturers following suit and launching Google TV enabled televisions over the next 12 month, we suspect Google TV is going to be very popular.

Via : geeky-gadgets.com

Sonos wireless iPod dock pumps tunes around the house

Sonos’ WD100 wireless iPod dock makes it possible to play music, and audio from any app, on your home theater.

Adding yet another accessory to its streaming music system, Sonos announced the WD100 wireless iPod Dock on Thursday at CEDIA 2010. The slim white dock charges the iPod Touch
just like any other, but also pipes music from it – and even the audio from apps like Pandora – to any Sonos-equipped room in the house.

Just as with other Sonos sources, you can select the iPod with a wireless controller like the CR200, or even another iPod acting as a remote in the other room. The system allows you to browse the contents of its music library remotely, or just select “play now” to hear whatever audio it’s playing, whether that’s Internet radio or live baseball broadcasts. You do, however, have to select those sources manually on the iPod itself.

According to Sonos, the WD100 is compatible with all iPod touch models, the iPod classic, the third-, fourth- and fifth-generation iPod nano, and all iPhones. It will go on sale at the end of October for $119.

Via : digitaltrends

Sony sets date for Google TV unveil

Sony has set the 12 October for the day that it will official unveil its Google TV plans the company has confirmed.

Invites for a New York based event went out to journalists late on Friday night:

"Please join us as Sony introduces the World's First Internet Television" reads the invite.

Although Sony has already shown off the 'World's First Internet Television" tucked away at its stand at IFA in Berlin, the BRAVIA television has yet to get a more formal launch.

Sir Howard Stringer confirmed at the time that Sony would be launching the television in the States before the year was out.

Of course Samsung, LG, Panasonic, Philips and Toshiba will all be scratching their head as to how their Internet ready televisions aren't already just that. Ah the joys of marketing.

Google has yet to confirm an official date for the launch for its new TV set top box however always said that it would officially launch the service in the US in time for the Holidays with a global rollout expected in 2011.

The 12 October ties in with previous Google TV launch date rumours that suggested it would be in the first half of October, maybe even as late as the 17 October.

Pocket-lint will be bringing you all the news as it happens on the big day.

Via : pocket-lint

T-Mobile G2 Pre-Orders Start Today

T-Mobile is beginning to open up pre-orders today for the new T-Mobile G2. The website below shows a pre-order date of September 24 through October 4 followed by a release date of October 6.

This is good news for two reasons. First reason is that it is now available to pre-order, which will certainly keep some people happier. The second reason is that the release date was thought to be October 16 which has now been announced as 10 days earlier.

The pre-orders look to be exclusive to current T-Mobile customers at this point with no indication of when they will be opened up to new customers.

The device its self is an Android 2.2 phone that runs an 800MHz Qualcomm MSM 7230 CPU. It has 4GB of ROM and 512MB RAM. The screen measures 3.7 inches and is in a WVGA format showing 480 x 800 pixels. The screen is capacitive touch.

Via : gadgetvenue

T-Mobile G2 Pre-orders Now Available for Existing Customers

The moment is near: If you want a phone that echoes the glory of the first Android smartphone ever, the T-Mobile G1, you can now pre-order the T-Mobile G2 and receive it by October 6.

This offer is available only to existing T-Mobile customers, who will be getting their G2 early only if they order it before October 4.

The cost of the device is $250 before a $50 mail-in rebate with the standard two-year contract. Remember, though, the G2 will also be available in Best Buy stores on October 6 for $199 after a $50 instant rebate and a two-year contract. We guess the question you have to ask yourself is: Do you feel like parting (at least for a while) with an extra 50 bucks to get this phone a couple of days earlier?

T-Mobile G2 will be based on Android (Android) 2.2 and it will support HSPA+, the first T-Mobile to do so. It also has a full QWERTY keyboard, a 3.7-inch screen, an 800 MHz Snapdragon CPU, and a 5-megapixel camera with a LED flash and autofocus, capable of recording HD (720p) videos.

Via : mashable.com

T-Mobile G2 goes up for pre-order

T-Mobile USA customers hoping to retire their beloved G1 and pick up the carrier’s latest Android smartphone can finally flex their credit cards today, with the news that – as expected – the T-Mobile G2 has gone up for pre-order. Priced at $199.99 (after a $50 mail-in rebate and assuming a new two-year agreement, of course) and currently only available to existing subscribers, the G2 is expected to drop into customer’s hands by October 6th

Coincidentally – or not – that’s also the same day that the Android smartphone will go up for sale generally. We’re hearing that T-Mobile is actually targeting the end of September for their initial deliveries – though you’ll have to get your pre-order in fast – so in fact you might have a week of earlier access than your non-subscriber friends.

Of course, you could also wait until the G2 lands at Best Buy, which won’t get you the smartphone early but should save you the hassle of sending off a mail-in rebate. Wherever you buy it from, the G2 runs Android 2.2 on Qualcomm’s new 800MHz Snapdragon processor, has a 5-megapixel camera, WiFi and GPS, along with HSPA+ connectivity and a QWERTY keyboard.

Via : slashgear

T-Mobile G2 Pre-Orders For Existing Customers Opens Today

American readers who are on T-Mobile can now make their pre-orders for the upcoming G2 starting today. The order can be made via T-Mobile’s G2 website and shall be open for orders until October 4. As you already know, the official launch of the device is expected starting October 6. As it goes without saying, this is only for existing T-Mobile customers. If you are not, you can check out our earlier article about Best Buy having already opened up their stores for G2 pre-orders.

T-Mobile G2 is an Android 2.2 device that comes with a 3.7-inches S-TFT WVGA display and has a unique hinge-style slider form factor. The phone is powered by a 800MHz Snapdragon processor and will be equipped with a 4GB internal memory, 8GB microSD card, 5-megapixel camera and 720p HD video recording capability.

Via : gorumors.com

Archos 32 Internet Tablet review

With there now being five (oh yes, five!) Archos Android Internet Tablets on the market, it's understandably hard to keep 'em all straight, but in our minds the 32 is easy to separate from the rest – it, along with the 28, is more of an Android PMP than anything else. With 3.2 inches of resistive touchscreen, the 32 packs the specs of a typical media player: 8GB of storage, media player software with support for loads of audio and video formats, and a VGA camera. But unlike most, it runs Android 2.1 (2.2 will be a firmware update, we're told), which adds quite a bit more functionality in terms of applications and web browsing. And it's also got an accelerometer for playing games. At $150, it seems like a pretty good deal, especially when you consider that it's cheaper than an iPod Touch or even a Zune HD (depending on where you're shopping), but there are a few issues that may hold you back from forking over the cash. You'll want to check out our full review after the break to find out just what those are.

When powered off, the Archos 32 looks like the company's typical music player – it's primarily crafted of black plastic, though the back is made of some sort of brushed metal. However for weighing just 2.5 ounces we're fairly impressed with the build quality of the .3-inch thick "tablet." The little thing felt right at home in our pocket at the gym and didn't protrude much when we put it in our jeans pocket. There's no carrying case included, so we'd strongly suggest nabbing a small pouch for protecting it against bumps and bruises in a bag.

The front of the device is mostly glossy screen, although below the display are six touch-sensitive buttons that actually happen to be more responsive to finger taps than we expected. However, they're not backlit so seeing them in the dark is a struggle. The left edge holds the 32's power button and volume rocker, while the bottom is home to micro-USB and 3.5mm headphone jacks. There's a small mic on the bottom as well, but the device is missing a speaker. It's a fairly odd omission considering most of the other Archos PMPs have had it in the past. Your run-of-the-mill plastic earbuds are included in the box – they're loud, but outrageously uncomfortable in comparison to our Shures.

Via : engadget,
Buy @ Archos

Android-based AlessiTab home tablet

Eager to get your hands on that Stefana Giovannoni-designed AlessiTab home tablet first announced back in April? Then it looks like you'll have to wait a bit longer, and shell out a bit more cash than first expected. According to Design Boom, the device is now set to roll out in Italy sometime in November (instead of this month), and it will run €399, or about $535 (a full hundred euros than previously expected). Otherwise, the Android 2.1-based tablet looks to be the same as we've seen before, including a 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen, a DVB-T digital TV tuner, built-in WiFi, and a webcam for video calls. Notably absent, however, is access to the Android Market, but Alessi promises it'll provide a selection of its own apps specifically designed for the home environment.

Via : SlashGear, Design Boom, engadget

EVO 4G update removes framerate cap

You hoped, you opined, you might have even prayed -- and as it turns out, you win. As many of you have suspected, the latest firmware update to Sprint / HTC's EVO 4G does, in fact, let us break past the former 30 frames per second barrier. You know, the one HTC said couldn't be crossed with software updates alone. At least, it did for our handheld, as you can see above. Good news for everyone bothered by this (now seemingly) artificial limit -- now back to your regularly-scheduled WiMAX enjoyment.

Via : engadget

Updates On iPhone 4 Accessories

Every week or so, Apple and third party companies release a batch of new accessories to go along with your iPhone 4. Take a look at this week’s update concerning latest products for your Apple smartphone;

BodyGuardz;

Nope, it ain’t for your protection, this product is for preventing your iPhone 4 from getting those scratches. You can go for a screen protection program by buying BodyGuardz Dry Screen protector; it’ll cost you $15. Or you can go for the full body protection package for $35.

Griffin;

Griffin Technology developed a nice cuddly iPhone 4 cases that your kids will love to mess up with. Don’t worry, it was made this way and despite of all the chewy and drooly interaction, the Griffin Case still protects your iPhone from getting any scratches or stains.

Uncommon

Though a little pricey at $35, the Uncommon iPhone 4 Deflector Case is a great tool for art enthusiasts. Admit it, sometimes you do wish that you had a special iPhone 4 case with an image of your choice. Through Uncommon, you can either upload an image or take one to them, through a USB. The vendors will be happy to print is out for you on a special sublimation.

For every company’s mishaps in the industry, there’s always a doorway opened up for new possibilities. If you look at the iPhone 4 antenna debacle from a bigger perspective, you’ll notice that it also opened employment opportunities. 3rd party companies that never existed, started developing iPhone 4 cases. It is a continuous cycle of action and reaction that balances the market in one way or another.

Via : toptechreviews.net

Sony Ericsson says it has 'no plans' for any new Symbian

Symbian has taken some pretty hard hits as of late, and it's just been dealt another big one -- Sony Ericsson has confirmed earlier talk that it is indeed abandoning the operating system. As Sony Ericsson spokesperson Aldo Liguori bluntly puts it, "we have no plans for the time being to develop any new products to the Symbian Foundation standard or operating system." That doesn't completely close the door on Symbian, of course, and Liguori also said that Sony Ericsson still remains a member of the Symbian Foundation. Those future meetings should certainly be interesting, no?

Via : engadget

RIM to launch its new BlackBerry tablet next week

Research in Motion (RIM) is all set to launch its new BlackBerry tablet next week at the company’s developer conference which is scheduled to begin this Monday at San Francisco, as stated by a report in The Wall Street Journal.

RIM has already trademarked “SurfBook” and “BlackPad” and it is most likely that the newly launched tablet will have one of these names.

Last month, Apple Daily a Chinese paper stated that RIM had selected Quanta a Taiwanese notebook manufacturer to produce a minimum of 2 million tablets in this year.

This launch will take place just weeks following the debut of Galaxy Tab, Samsung’s 7” tablet. BlackBerry’s new tablet will be unique. It will be different from its peers. The new BlackBerry tablet will support Wi-Fi, 3G connectivity, and Bluetooth.

Via : blackfridaydeals2010.in

RIM Plans to Sell 2.5 Million Black Pad Tablets in Q4 2010

RIM(Research In Motion) is expected to announce their tablet device(BlackPad) at their 2010 BlackBerry Developer Conference next week. Analysts are speaking out on this possible new venture and if it’s a good move. Analyst Jeffrey Fidacaro of Susquehanna Research said that RIM is building 2.5 million “BlackPads” for Q4 and but it won’t be rivaling the Apple iPad or Samsung Tab for the consumer market, but shifting towards the enterprise market.

Today eWEEK reports that Susquehanna Research analyst Jeffrey Fidacaro has learned from a source that RIM is building 2.5 million tablets for the last quarter of 2010 and that the company plans to target enterprise customers, not consumers. A Q4 launch would give the device a head start on Cisco’s Cius, which isn’t due until early 2011.

Via : techpinger.com

Apple MacBook Air 11.6″ edition

Despite Apple’s claims that it would not be launching a netbook device, rumor has it that the company will be releasing a new MacBook Air – with a mere 11.6″ screen size.

Designed to replace the existing model, firm details of the up-coming ultra-portable notebook are thin on the ground – but if true, would mark one of the smallest notebooks Apple has ever made.

It’s true that it wouldn’t precisely class as a ‘netbook’ per se – the processor, memory, hard drive, and graphics capabilities of the MacBook Air far outclass anything that appears in that particular category, making the Air more of an ultra-portable – and an 11.6″ model an ultra-ultra-portable.

Due for release towards the end of this year, industry rumour mill DigiTimes suggests that the Cupertino-based company will be looking to ship around half a million units by the end of the year – although doesn’t indicate if that’s a world-wide figure or just for US markets.

The rumored device will have a processor upgrade to Intel’s latest 2010 editions of the Core range – most likely a Core i3 consumer ultra-low voltage processor – and an LED backlight display, both of which should contribute to a lengthened battery life compared to its chunkier predecessor – despite the boost in performance that the new processor will provide.

There’s no clue yet as to whether the hardware refresh – which is long overdue, with the MacBook Air’s specifications seeming a little long in the tooth for the high price premium you’ll pay – will address some of the major concerns of the original: it would be nice, though unlikely, to see a user-replaceable battery in the new, smaller model, and additional USB ports to replace the solitary port on the original would also be very welcome – especially given the device’s lack of internal optical drive.

Another feature which vexed buyers in its absence from the original MacBook Air was a wired Ethernet port: while wireless connectivity was integrated, many users who found themselves at a desk for any length of time preferred, for reasons of security and speed, to use a wired connection – which required an extra-cost dongle and the use of the sole USB port on the device.

Apple is, as usual, keeping tight-lipped about its plans – or lack thereof – but if it’s looking to get the new device out in time for the holiday season rush as DigiTimes suggests, it’s going to have to hurry up and launch.

Via : geekwithlaptop

11.6-Inch MacBook Air Rumors: Apple's Remaking the 12-Inch PowerBook Everyone Wants

Ever since Apple discontinued its 12-inch PowerBook notebook PC in favor of larger widescreen units, many a computer fan has pleaded for its return. Now rumors are again popping up about a smaller MacBook Air revision ... it may be the machine everyone wants.

We've heard inklings of this rumor before--Apple was going to revamp the Air with a smaller screen to really sweep-up in the super-portable business laptop market--but this time there're some very definite sounding statements being made. According to fairly reliable rumor-source Digitimes, Apple's main notebook-maker partner Quanta has landed an order for 400,000 to 500,000 new machines sporting an 11.6-inch display, with delivery scheduled before the end of this year. The screen would be LED-lit, and based on earlier rumors the low-power Intel Core-i series chips would be nestled inside.

We tend to believe Apple could be considering a radical revamp of the Air--it hasn't upgraded the machine's specs in line with all the other Macs it offers, and though the Air was the first Mac to sport the aluminum unibody chassis, it hasn't had a style tweak since then. It even retains the old-style trackpad, with one large button.

A smaller Air also makes excellent market sense: It would be lighter, and thus even more impressive to users than the already-astonishing size and weight of the current Air, bringing all sorts of portability benefits. It's also taking a stab at one of the benefits of netbooks (their size) without compromising on a "full" computing experience. If a smaller, lighter, more powerful Air were sold at the same price--or even slightly lower, which may be possible given the change in components--then it could sell in big numbers into the enterprise market. Business folks who prize portability, and who'd love a bit of Apple chic would snap at it.

Plus, it would almost mark the return of the 12-inch PowerBook that Mac fans have yearned for for years.

Via : fastcompany.com

Nokia N8 promises to bring high definition portable entertainment to the Middle East

The Nokia N8, the first in Nokia’s new family of faster, more intuitive Symbian smartphones, is set to bring consumers in the region a true social computing experience that combines great usability with a personalizable and fast user interface.

“We expect big things from the Nokia N8. Powered by the all new Symbian platform, which brings significant enhancements in speed and ease of use, it is tightly integrated with enhanced Ovi services and apps, and reinforces Nokia’s vision of a mobile industry that is increasingly being defined by socially connected, location-based devices and experiences,” said Henri Mattila, Solution Marketing Manager – Nokia Middle East and Africa.

Be the first in Lebanon to own the new Nokia N8
As of Monday 27th September, the new Nokia N8, Nokia’s latest smartphone, will be available for preordering in Lebanon. Lebanese consumers can be the first to own the new Nokia N8 by pre-booking their device in select mobile phone outlets in Lebanon

Connect. Create. Entertain.
The Nokia N8 introduces a 12 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, Xenon flash and a large sensor that rivals those found in compact digital cameras. Additionally, the Nokia N8 offers the ability to make HD-quality videos and edit them with an intuitive built-in editing suite. Doubling as a portable entertainment center, people can enjoy HD-quality video with Dolby Digital Plus surround sound by plugging into their home theatre system. The Nokia N8 enables access to Web TV services that deliver programs, news and entertainment from channels like CNN, E! Entertainment, Paramount and National Geographic. Additional local Web TV content is also available from the Ovi Store.

Social networking is second nature to the Nokia N8. People can update their status, share location and photos, and view live feeds from Facebook and Twitter in a single app directly on the home screen. Calendar events from social networks can also be transferred to the device calendar.

The Nokia N8 comes with free global Ovi Maps walk and drive navigation, guiding people to places and points of interest in more than 70 countries worldwide.

Symbian^3 in action
Powering the Nokia N8 is Symbian ^ 3, the latest edition of the world’s most used smartphone software, which introduces several major advances, including support for gestures such as multi touch, flick scrolling and pinch-zoom. The Nokia N8 also offers multiple, personalizeable homescreens which can be loaded with apps and widgets. The new 2D and 3D graphics architecture in the platform takes full advantage of the Nokia N8’s hardware acceletration to deliver a faster and more responsive user interface. Symbian ^ 3 also raises the bar in performance by delivering greater memory management allowing more applications to run parallel for a faster multi-tasking experience.

Craftmanship and materials
Special attention has been paid to the craftsmanship and materials of Nokia N8, bringining a new iconic footprint for the Nokia Nseries – integrity of design, softer edges as well as the vibrant new colors.

“The starting point for the design of the Nokia N8 was high quality of materials and the feel of the surfaces in your hand,” says Mikko Aarras, the lead designer for the Nokia N8. “We wanted it to show the craftmanship that has gone into designing the device. For example, we wanted to have rounded edges and emphasize the details by diamond cutting. These are simple ways to bring out the qualities of the material.”

Via : iloubnan.info

Smartphone shootout: Nokia N8 versus Apple iPhone 4

Nokia Oyj recently unveiled the top-of-the-line flagship N8 smartphone. The N8 is being billed as the latest 'iPhone killer,' as it boasts of a revamped Symbian 3 operating system and comes with a 12-megapixel camera with high-definition video recording, a touch screen display and high-speed Internet access. But the billion dollar question is – can the N8 beat the iPhone 4?

About the N8

The N8 is perhaps the best smartphone Nokia has launched since N95, which was launched in 2006.

The N8 is sleek and smart-looking. It has a block form factor, measures 113.5 x 59 x 12.9 mm, weighs 135g and has an anodized aluminum case. But looks are not the only strength of the N8.

The N8 also boasts of powerful specifications such as 3.5-inch capacitive multi-touch AMOLED display (640x360 pixels resolution), accelerometer sensor, proximity sensor, ambient light sensor, HD quality video recording and playback capabilities, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3G, A-GPS, Ovi Maps (navigable 3-D maps), Digital Compass, on-screen full Qwerty virtual keyboard, Adobe Flash Lite-enabled HTM Web browser, dedicated camera and volume keys, high-speed USB 2.0 (micro USB connector) and FM Radio.

The N8 also features key applications such as calendar, contacts, music player, messaging, mail, chat, photos, Ovi Store, Office document editors, and video & photo editor.

And, if you're in the mood for some entertainment, the N8 can be your best companion – it can play HD quality videos, features Dolby Digital Plus Surround Sound and its HDMI port allows it to plug into a home entertainment system.

In addition, the N8 comes with WebTV, an on-demand service that helps deliver local and global TV favorites from channels like CNN, E! Entertainment, paramount and National Geographic right to the home screen, and boasts of built-in premium guides from Lonely Planet and Via Michelin for tips on travel, restaurants, weather and hotels.

And, if you're feel that you've been away from your friends and family for too long, don't fret. The N8 promises to enrich your social networking experience as it comes with a seamless and fully integrated social networking feature that allows you to get live updates from Facebook, Twitter and the like pushed right to your homescreen with feeds visible at a single glance. Calender events from the social networking sites can also be transferred to the device.

The key selling points of the N8, however, are its powerful camera features that rivals those found in compact digital cameras and the new Symbian 3 OS.

The N8 boasts of a 12-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optic lens, autofocus, digital zoom and Xenon flash. The camera also has face and smile detection features and is capable of recording 720p HD videos that can be edited with an intuitive built-in editing suite. In addition, the N8 also has a secondary VGA camera for video calls. In other words, the N8 could be said to be the world's best camera phone to date. The only other camera phones that could possibly come close to matching the N8's camera features are Sony Ericsson's Xperia X10, HTC's Evo 4G and Droid Incredible, and Motorola's Droid X, which feature 8-megapixel camera and Sony Ericsson's Satio, which boasts of a 12-megapixel camera.

The N8's other claim to fame is possibly the fact that it's the first smartphone to run on the revamped Symbian 3 OS.

The new Symbian 3 OS, Nokia claims, is "faster, easier to use, more efficient and more developer friendly." The company claims the latest Symbian OS modernizes the long-serving mobile OS with multi-touch, multiple home screens (up to 3 customizable home screens) with widgets, themes, shortcuts, icons and menu and a unified contacts feature that support simultaneous updating of social networks. An updated WebKit browser, an easier to use Ovi Store and overall simplified settings also help improve the user interface.

And, last but not the least, the N8's battery life is also impressive. It offers 12 hours of talk-time in GSM with a standby time of 16.25 days. Nokia claims the music playback time in offline mode is 50 hours.

Via : hken.ibtimes.com

Dubai At Night Through The Eyes Of The Nokia N8

I was recently invited to the pre-launch of the Nokia N8 in the Middle East, which took place in Dubai, and while it was my first time handling the N8 and I came away pretty impressed, one thing I wanted to do was be able to test the camera. We were in Dubai, Nokia was launching a 12MP cameraphone, and they didn’t think it’d be smart to give us each an N8 to take photos, you know, to convince us of how cool their phone is! They only had 4 or 5 N8s for us to test, hooked to an alarm-triggered table, inside the conference walls, with awkward lights around them. Not cool. Especially when you think that with Xenon flash and the largest sensor for a cameraphone, the N8 is basically made for night photography.

Lucky for me though, I was able to snatch one prototype from a Nokian (insert evil laugh) and get loose around Dubai for a few minutes before having to hand it back reluctantly, not forgetting, obviously, to bluetooth the images I took over to my N97 Mini.

You can see the results below, with Burj Khalifa (the tallest man-made structure in the world), the Dubai Marina Walk, and the area around the Dubai Media One Hotel. Now keep in mind, this is a prototype, it wasn’t running firmware PR1.0, and apparently I was using the wide-angle 9MP resolution not the 12MP one. I was also tinkering with the settings every 3 seconds, using Night Mode sometimes, changing the ISO settings, turning the Flash on and off, using Sports Mode for the 3rd & 4th photo from inside the bus… Basically, I was playing and I’m not a pro-photographer. So the quality of the results will vary. Note: click on the thumbnails for the full-resolution image.

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