Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Hands on: LG Optimus L9 review

Hands on: LG Optimus L9 review

Exclusively for T-Mobile, LG has introduced the LG Optimus L9. A 4G capable phone with a dual-core processor and 1GB of RAM, the Optimus 9 will be the most powerful handset in the L family of smartphones.

No pricing information is available for this new Android 4.0: Ice Cream Sandwich device. Given the increasingly competitive 4G smartphone landscape, cost will surely make or break this new handset when it releases later this fall. We spent some quality time with LG's new smartphone at MobileCon 2012.

LG Optimus L9 review

The LG Optimus L9's dual-core processor runs at 1GHz, and is backed by 1GB of RAM and a 2150mAh battery. On board storage is 4GB. The screen is qHD, measuring 4.5 inches with a resolution of 960×540.

The phone itself is 5.19 by 2.69 inches, and only 0.36 inches thick. It features a compact design with a matte plastic back that's smooth, but not slick. We had no trouble keeping a grip on it as we zoomed across its seven ICS home screens, though at 4.41 ounces, the phone is extremely light.

LG Optimus L9 review

Physically, it resembles the LG Optimus L7. It also features a removable backing for easy battery swapping.

The interface was breezy and responsive, we flipped across multiple apps and widgets without any noticeable slowdown. The LG Optimus L9 isn't just running pure ICS, LG has put its own Optimus 3.0 UX (UX for user experience) over the stock Android OS.

LG Optimus L9 review

Optimus 3.0 UX gives the interface a unique flavor, letting users choose from seven different screen swipe effects. The results are an entertaining flourish on basic home screen navigation.

Also included is LG's QuickMemo app, which lets users jot down notes right over the home screen. These can be saved, exported and viewed gallery style.

Of course, writing with your finger is rather messy. The QuickMemo app is not for anything but the most desperate scribbling of an address or phone number, but will certainly save you from digging in your bag for a pen and paper, if people even carry such things anymore.

On its back, the LG Optimus L9 sports a 5 megapixel camera that also captures 1080p video. The front facing camera is VGA resolution. The phone features Voice Shutter, a picture taking gimmick you'll try at least once. Literally say "cheese" and the shutter will snap a picture.

LG Optimus L9 review

Early Verdict

At just 1GHz, the LG Optimus L9 ran ICS very well. While we were disappointed that there seemed to be no plans to bring Android 4.1: Jelly Bean to the device, LG's Optimus 3.0 UX helped breathe new life into the aging Android OS.

Physically, the phone felt a tad unsubstantial. We like a device with a little bit of weight to it, and the LG Optimus L9 felt as though it could blow away in a breeze. That plastic backing didn't give it a premium feel, either. However, we know some users like a phone that's barely there, and matte finish did feel nice to the touch.

LG Optimus L9 review

T-Mobile customers and those looking to convert should keep an eye on the LG Optimus L9. When it comes out later in the fall it'll be the fastest L series smartphone money can buy, and possibly one of the peppiest handsets on the T-Mobile network. We'll be the judge of that when we give the phone a full review.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/reviews/phones/mobile-phones/lg-optimus-l9-1093900/review

Galaxy S3 beats iPhone 4S at awards show, ASUS picks up five prizes

Samsung scored a win over Apple at an awards show in London this week. It was ASUS, however, which turned out to be the biggest winner, scooping five awards in all.

Samsung’s Galaxy S3 smartphone beat Apple’s iPhone 4S to walk away with the Phone of the Year prize at an annual awards show in London this week. The event, organized by UK-based gadget magazine T3, started in 2007 and has grown in prominence over the years.

It’s the second year in a row that the Korean electronics giant has triumphed over its Cupertino-based rival in this category, with the Galaxy S2 beating the iPhone 4 in 2011. Of course, it would have been more fun to see the S3 up against the iPhone 5, but it was launched too late to be among the contenders. Other handsets nominated in the Phone of the Year category included the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, HTC One X, Sony Xperia S and Nokia Lumia 900.

Despite tech heavyweights Samsung and Apple being nominated in a slew of categories (10 and 9 respectively), they only picked up one award each. Apple won Work Gadget of the Year with the iPhone 4S.

It was ASUS who really stole the show, ending the evening with five awards: Computer of the Year (Zenbook UX31); T3 Design Award (Eee Pad Transformer Prime); Tech Brand of the Year; Tablet of the Year (Nexus 7); and Gadget of the Year (Nexus 7).

Amazon also picked up a couple of prizes, winning the Commuter Gadget of the Year with its Kindle 4 e-reader and Retailer of the Year.

“This year saw more closely contested categories than ever, with our judges deliberating in great depth to decide the eventual winners,” T3 editor Luke Peters said. “The tech industry has never been more exciting and the multitude of winning brands demonstrate how much quality buying choice there is now.”

Votes were cast by T3 readers and a panel of six judges working in the gadget industry.

Other category winners included:

Innovation of the Year: Raspberry Pi

Gaming Gadget of the Year: Sony PS Vita

Gadget Accessory of the Year: Nike Fuelband

App of the Year: Zeebox

TV of the Year: Sony Bravia KDL-55HX853

Digital Camera of the Year: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1

Home Gadget of the Year: Nest Smart Thermostat

Music Gadget of the Year: Bowers & Wilkins P3

[via Metro]


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/galaxy-s3-beats-iphone-4s-at-awards-show-asus-picks-up-five-prizes/

Lenovo shows off new Windows 8 convertible tablets with a Twist

Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11 Tablet Mode

Lenovo has shown off its Windows 8 launch lineup, including the IdeaPad Yoga and several new laptop tablet hybrids like the ThinkPad Twist.

At an event in New York City, Lenovo today revealed launch details for four new tablet and laptop convertibles running Windows 8. First on the list was Lenovo’s screen-bending IdeaPad Yoga 13, but it now has a smaller cousin, the 11-inch IdeaPad Yoga running Windows RT — Microsoft’s more limited version of Windows 8 made to compete with Android and the iPad. Outside of the pair of Yogas, the IdeaTab Lynx was also shown. The Lynx is a dual-core Intel Windows 8 tablet that snaps into a keyboard dock, much like the Asus Transformer tablets. Finally, the ThinkPad Twist is a new convertible tablet (also Windows 8) with a spinning screen.

Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga

Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11 and 13: The Yoga since it was first shown at CES this past January, and was the first Windows 8 device to truly draw our attention. The Yoga is a laptop with a special hinge that allows its screen to fold all the way flat, and then just keep folding, eventually taking four different forms. It can be put into a Tent Mode, Laptop Mode, Tablet mode, and Stand mode. This gives it more range than almost any other computer I can think of without the need to attach or detach peripherals. The new 11-inch brings the same flexibility to Windows RT, meaning it won’t have the classic Windows 7 desktop, but it has a fast Tegra 3 processor, 13 hours of battery life, and cost about $800 when it launches Oct. 26. The Yoga 13 will retail for $1100 and goes on sale Oct. 12. Both will be sold at Best Buy.

Lenovo Thinkpad Twist

Lenovo ThinkPad Twist homescreen

Lenovo ThinkPad Twist: The ThinkPad Twist is a 12.5-inch Windows 8 full Ultrabook, meaning it runs Windows 8 Pro and meets several standards for battery life and overall petiteness. It also boasts some impressive internals. It runs on an Intel Core i7 processor, has a hard drive as large as 500GB (or 128GB solid-state drive), and a 720p HD display. The big gimmick here is that the screen can spin around. While we’re worried about hinge-breakage on this laptop even more the Yoga, the spinning motion accomplished most of the same things as the Yoga’s bending does. You can use this as a full tablet or in “tent” mode or “stand” mode as well. The Twist will be available on Oct. 26 at Best Buy for prices starting at $850.  

Lenovo IdeaTab Lynx keyboard dock

Lenovo IdeaTab Lynx: This is a full Windows 8 tablet with a dual-core Intel Atom processor, but the selling gimmick here is a snap in keyboard, similar to the Transformer tablets by Asus and Lenovo’s own S2110 Android tablet. The keyboard dock just about doubles the battery life, but will likely set you back another $150. Without a keyboard, the Lynx will cost $600.

Pricing for the ThinkPad Tablet 2 was also revealed. It will cost $650.

We spent some time with each of the convertibles and came away impressed, but mostly with the Yoga. While Lenovo’s entire lineup offers solid performance, the Yoga remains one of the coolest Windows 8 laptop/tablet hybrids around. Of course, the elephant in the room here tonight is price. None of these devices comes anywhere close to the $500 price of an iPad, which begs the question: will people pay extra for Windows 8? Lenovo is hoping that offering a keyboard and full PC functionality will convince people to make the jump. We’re not convinced, but we have to say, that Yoga is pretty tempting.


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/lenovo-shows-off-new-windows-8-convertible-tablets/

HTC ditches Samsung components for other suppliers, a la Apple

HTC ditches Samsung components for other suppliers, a la Apple
Won't be seeing a lot of Samsung screens here

HTC is reportedly reducing its dependence on hardware from Samsung Electronics, following Apple's lead.

DigiTimes reported HTC is switching its orders for CMOS image sensors to OmniVision and Sony. The Korea-based manufacturer also lost HTC's orders for AMOLED panels to AU Optronics (AUO), according to industry sources.

HTC won't abandon Samsung completely just yet. The smartphone vendor will still rely on Samsung to produce some of the AMOLED panels it needs.

HTC is concerned if AUO will be able to keep up with demand for the display panels at first.

Apple vs Samsung verdict started the trend

HTC has also purchased Super LCD panels from Sony for its mid-ranged and high-end smartphones since the late half of 2010. So the move doesn't come as a huge leap.

No word yet from HTC on why it dropped some of Samsung's hardware from its smart devices, as it has yet to reply to TechRadar's request for comment.

The move comes after Apple started buying parts from other manufacturers, reportedly because of risk control. The recent court battles between Apple and Samsung probably had something to do with it as well.

Last month, HTC announced its Windows Phone 8X will be the flagship platform for the Windows 8 mobile OS.

Samsung's future

Though the two tech giants stopped buying parts from the Korean supplier, one shouldn't worry too much about Samsung's future.

It just spun off its LCD business, Samsung Display, to form the world's largest display manufacturer.

Samsung has also seen "huge" orders for new flexible OLED displays. The twistable displays are similar to AMOLED panels except they are bendable and nearly indestructible.

Samsung representatives said the displays should release sometime near the end of 2012, but there have been reports of delays. Yield problems have delayed the flexible LEDs until the first half of 2013 at the very earliest.

But there is no telling if we'll get bendy phones that early.

Until then Samsung's future may be a bit wobbly.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/htc-ditches-samsung-components-for-other-suppliers-a-la-apple-1103278

Hands on: HTC One VX review

Hands on: HTC One VX review

Not in the market for the most powerful smartphone out there? Prefer something lighter, more compact, not to mention affordable? Then the HTC One VX would like your attention.

At MobileCon 2012 we were introduced to the HTC One VX. Just like its bigger brother, the HTC One X+, it'll be coming exclusively to AT&T when it releases in the U.S. While it may be the little brother of the new HTC handset lineup, it has serious hardware behind its plastic polycarbonate backing, and thanks to HTC's Sense 4 UI, it holds onto many of the best features found on the original HTC One X.

HTC One VX review

With a 1.2Ghz dual-core Snapdragon processor and 1GB of DDR3 RAM, it falls in among devices like the new Droid Razr M, which packs a surprising amount of horsepower for a so-called mid-range device. While HTC has not yet named its price for the HTC One VX, representatives assured us that affordability is a priority with this new handset.

Holding the HTC One VX, we were struck by the polished yet grippy feel of its white plastic backing. It has a great balanced feel, with enough heft to feel substantial, yet it was light enough to drop in a pocket or purse and forget about. However, its rubbery plastic construction did have us missing the premium aluminum feel of an iPhone 5 or Droid Razr M.

HTC One VX review
One X+ on the left, VX on the right

The HTC One VX weighs in at 4.4 ounces (124.7 grams), making it just slightly lighter than the 4.55 ounce (129 grams) HTC One X+. It may not seem like much, but holding the two phones, we could notice the difference. Since it has a 4.5 inch screen, as opposed to the 4.7 inches of display space on the One X+, this handset's dimensions are a little more reigned in.

It may not be as wide or tall, but the One VX is slightly thicker. However, this comes with one advantage. The phone's plastic backing pops off, revealing a removable battery and microSD card slot. Thanks to this handy feature, you'll be able to replace the 1810mAh battery on the go, and swap in up to 32GB of extra storage. On board storage is already a sizeable 8GB.

HTC One VX review

With the One VX's smaller screen comes a lower resolution. At 960x540 with 245 PPI it starts to show its lower price point, compared with the 1280x720 and 312 PPI on the One X+. Still, this a great corner to cut for customers who aren't as focused on consuming HD video on their mobile device.

For taking photos the VX has a 5 megapixel camera. While this is none too high, it's supported by the any photo snapping features of HTC's Sense 4 UI. It shoots with impressive speed, and can even caputre images at a machine gun rate by holding the shutter button. It's also capable of capturing full HD 1080p video. For video chat there's a front-facing VGA-grade camera.

HTC One VX review

As far as software goes, the HTC One VX had Android 4.0: Ice Cream Sandwich and HTC's own Sense 4 UI running over it. The One VX will be getting an upgrade to Android 4.1: Jelly Bean and Sense 4+. HTC hasn't given an exact date, but we were told customers wouldn't be waiting too long.

They may not be latest versions, but ICS and Sense 4 were a smooth combination on the One VX. Scrolling between the seven home screens was lightning quick. We enjoyed the unlock screen, which boasts a unique HTC take on a now standard ICS feature. To go directly into the app of your choice just drag an icon from the lock screen into the unlocking ring. It's a slick and convenient way to hop right into the camera for a spur of the moment snap or fire off a quick text.

Being an Android ICS device, the One VX has a myriad of apps available to it via the Google Play store. It also has native support for folders, and uses HTC's own Watch 2.0 for streaming media.

HTC One VX review

Watch 2.0 not only lets customers stream and download movies, it also aggregates your different video players. That way you can have different streaming players like YouTube, Daily Motion and Crackle right in one place.

All of HTC's new mobile phones are getting a musical boost from Beats Audio. Thanks to Dr. Dre's premium audio setup, the VX will have separate channels for high fidelity sound, and volume boost when the device plugs into your car stereo or other audio system.

HTC One VX review

Early Verdict

Our hands-on time with the HTC One VX had us feeling very hopeful about this upcoming mid-range device. While we'll reserve final judgment for when have a review unit in hand, there are plenty of reasons to look forward to this new AT&T exclusive Android handset.

First, affordability. While we haven't gotten an exact price on this device, we know it will be budget minded. With a 1.2Ghz processor and 1GB of RAM, it's part of a new breed of surprisingly powerful phones that are priced to move. As an AT&T exclusive device, consumers will probably get a great deal if they buy the One VX with a two-year contract.

HTC One VX review
One X+ on the left, One VX right

While the phone's rubberized casing doesn't provide the "premium" feel some phones have spoiled us with, it was pleasant to hold and felt grippy and hard to drop. It doesn't seem like a device that will need to be tucked into a protective case right away.

Even more than the Beats audio setup, we appreciated the removable battery. An 1810mAh cell isn't huge, and being able to change it out for a fresh one is an option that would make us feel prepared for a long day out.

Ultimately, it'll come down to price with the HTC One VX. We're hoping that it will be priced to compete with Verizon-exclusives like the Droid Razr M, which runs only $50 with two-year contract. Is that asking too much? We'll find out as soon as HTC shines a light on this speedy new handset's price tag.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/reviews/phones/mobile-phones/htc-one-vx-1103262/review

Google releases Android 4.1.2 to the Nexus 7, brings minor updates

Google has silently launched an update to Jelly Bean AOSP bringing Android to version 4.1.2.

The update is currently slowly making its way to the Google Nexus 7 units around the globe, but it shouldn't be long until it reaches the Galaxy Nexus, the Nexus S and the Motorola XOOM.


Image credit: EETimes

As with any software update, the Android 4.1.2 release brings its fair share of bug fixes and promises a boost in performance. However, Google Nexus 7 owners will be happy to know it also enables landscape orientation to both the homescreen and lockscreen.

Other than that, Google doesn't say much about the update, which is 31.3MB in size and sports a JZO54K build number.

Source | Via


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/google_releases_android_412_to_the_nexus_7_brings_minor_updates-news-4923.php

Google Nexus 7 gets Android 4.1.2 with landscape mode

Google Nexus 7 gets Android 4.1.2 with landscape mode
This Jelly Bean update is minor

In the tech industry, things are usually announced well before they're released, but on Tuesday morning it became apparent that that's not always the case.

Google simultaneously announced and released the latest update to Android 4.1: Jelly Bean, bringing the OS to version 4.1.2.

The update is available now for Google's flagship Nexus 7 tablet, and should roll out to eligible devices throughout the day.

The Asus-made Nexus 7 was the first device to run Jelly Bean in early 2012, so it's fitting that it should be the first device to receive the latest update, as well.

Improvements in 4.1.2

The latest Jelly Bean update isn't a major overhaul, but it does bring a few small improvements that Nexus 7 users will want to take advantage of.

As far as features go, the 31.3MB update adds a new landscape mode for the tablet.

What's more, Android 4.1.2 reportedly comes with a number of minor bug fixes and overall stability and performance improvements.

Waiting for Jelly Bean

Google may have updated Jelly Bean on its flagship tablet - the Nexus 7- but other devices, like Samsung's Galaxy S3, are only just now receiving Jelly Bean in the first place.

Plenty of devices haven't received the 4.1 update at all and are still languishing in Ice Cream Sandwich land (which, to be fair, sounds like a delicious place to be).

TechRadar reached out to Google to find out whether any other devices will soon receive the 4.1.2 update.

In the meantime, check out our frequently updated Jelly Bean news hub if you're curious whether Jelly Bean will be heading to your Android device.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/mobile-computing/tablets/google-nexus-7-gets-android-4-1-2-with-landscape-mode-1103237

Taiwan requests Apple blur images of its new radar facility in Maps app

Taiwan requests Apple blur images of its new radar facility in Maps app
Apple under scrutiny again over unblurred images in Maps

Since its inception, there have been a myriad of complaints levied against Apple's new Maps app.

Included in iOS 6 as a replacement for Google's Maps, Apple's version has come under scrutiny for having outdated information, blurry images, and lacking public transportation information.

Apple's Maps has also come under fire for including high-quality images of secure facilities around the globe.

Locations like a Turkish maximum security prison, as well as a military airstrip on the Japanese island of Minamitorishima, and the United States' Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland can be seen clearly in Maps.

Taiwan can now add one of its prized secure military installations to that growing list, and the government isn't very pleased.

Apple's international incident

The Taiwan Defense Ministry reached out to Apple to have the images of its new $1.4 billion (UK£875 million, AU$1.3 billion) early-warning radar facility in Hsinchu blurred out.

Even if just 4 percent of iOS 6 users use Maps, that's clearly too many sets of eyes able to view the vital Taiwanese installation.

In fact, Ministry spokesperson David Lo told the Associated Press, "Apple should follow its rival Google in using only low-resolution satellite pictures."

Google has made a practice of blurring out images of such high-security locations, and has even been known to do so upon request.

The radar station is set to go online later this year, and oddly enough, reports indicate Apple's imagery of the base is a year old.

Even with outdated cartography, Apple just can't seem catch a break when it comes to Maps.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/software/applications/taiwan-requests-apple-blur-images-of-its-new-radar-facility-in-maps-app-1103229

iPhone 5 tips and tricks

iPhone 5 tips and tricks

Just bought an iPhone 5? This guide will help you make the most of your new phone with a myriad of helpful features you may not know your phone has.

The iPhone 5 is here and Apple sold 5 million units in the first three days, so there will undoubtedly be a few of you out there looking for some handy pointers. Below are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most from your new phone.

Copying your old data

iOS 6 iCloud backupIf you’re upgrading from an older iPhone then you can copy across your contacts, apps, data and settings easily.

Simply make an iTunes backup and then copy it to your new iPhone. To do that, connect your USB cable, right click on your device in iTunes, and select Backup. Connect your iPhone 5 and right click on it in iTunes and then select Restore from backup.

If you’re last iPhone was running iOS 5 or iOS 6, you can use iCloud to do this. Just go to Settings > iCloud > Storage & Backup on your device and make sure it’s toggled on. You’ll need a Wi-Fi connection and it will probably take a while, so we would advise just plugging your phone in and using iTunes instead.

For contacts, you can copy them onto your nano-SIM card and stick it into your new iPhone 5, then go to Settings > Mail, Contacts, Calendars > Import SIM Contact. If you don’t have a nano-SIM in your old phone, you can export your contacts. Different phones have different methods. One of the simplest ways, if you are switching from Android, is to save your contacts in Gmail and then set up your Gmail account on your iPhone 5 via Settings > Mail, Contacts, Calendars. You’ll get the option to import them.

Security

iPhone 5 passcodeIt is a good idea to go to Settings > General > Passcode Lock and set one up. That will prevent people from taking a look through your phone. You can also set your auto-lock timer in Settings > General which will both save battery power and increase the security of your phone. If you’re confident you can remember your four-digit PIN, there is also an option to have your phone wipe itself (completely delete all memory) if a PIN is entered incorrectly 10 times in a row. This is a potentially dangerous option for the scatterbrained among us, but could save your data if it’s stolen.

Social media

Facebook and Twitter have been fully integrated into iOS 6. This means you can share any content quickly and easily via the Share button.

Before you do that, you’ll need to set up your accounts. In Settings you’ll find Facebook and Twitter entries that let you input your account details once and then you’ll never have to enter them again. You may want to switch the Contacts toggle in the Facebook menu to “off“ before you do or you’ll end up importing contacts from Facebook into your Address Book.

Tips for Siri

iPhone 5 Tweet from SiriIf you’re new to Siri then you’ll want to play around with it. Press and hold your Home button to activate Siri. When “What can I help you with?” comes up, tap the “i” and you’ll get a list of what Siri can do.

You can teach Siri about people and locations by telling it things like “Jenny is my wife.” You can also dictate messages and emails. In fact, with iOS 6, you can use Siri to post tweets and Facebook updates. You can even launch apps with Siri now.

Tips for Maps

If you aren’t too keen on the new Maps App then check out our alternative iOS 6 map apps roundup. If you want to give it a try then you’ll find it’s easy to use. Touch and hold anywhere on a map to drop a pin. That gives you an exact address and allows you to select Quick Route for turn-by-turn directions, just hit the car icon and then Start.

You can tap “3D” to try out the Flyover mode and tilt and zoom to explore. You can also just tap the compass icon at any time to find North.

Camera tips

iPhone 5 panorama modeYou can access your camera directly from the lock screen on the iPhone 5 by sliding up the camera icon. Simply tap on the screen to decide what you want to focus on. You can also pinch to zoom in the camera app.

You’ll find the new Panorama mode in Options in the Camera app and it allows you to slowly pan around to capture a panorama shot. Just hit done when you’re finished. You can also tap the arrow to change direction.

If you want to take a screenshot of whatever is currently on your screen, press and hold the Power button and then press the Home button. You’ll see a flash to indicate the screenshot was taken.

(Note: We’d love to give you a tip to avoid the infamous purple lens flare issue that’s popped up with the iPhone 5, but there currently isn’t a fix for this. Apple may issue a patch for it in the future, but for now, you need to avoid aiming your iPhone near the sun if you hate the color violet.)

Miscellaneous tips for iPhone 5

iPhone 5 keyboard shortcutsIf you double click the Home button you can scroll over to the right and lock your screen orientation in landscape or portrait. You can also see active apps and touch and hold them to turn them off, access the volume controls, and use Air Play from this menu.

If you don’t want to be disturbed, you can go to Settings and toggle Do Not Disturb on and incoming call, notifications and messages won’t bother you. They’ll still be collected, but your iPhone won’t make a sound or light up.

Go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Shortcuts and you can set up your own personal shortcuts for typing messages. You can also add loads of emoticons to your text messages by going to Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboard and selecting Emoji.

When you are reading a web page in Safari and you want to skip to the top quickly, just tap the status bar.

For more iPhone 5 tips go to Bookmarks in Safari, scroll down and tap iPhone User Guide.

Got any iPhone 5 tips of your own to share? Please post a comment.


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/iphone-5-tips-and-tricks/

Pre-order your Windows Phone 8 as soon as October 21

According to reports, Microsoft and AT&T will be holding pre-order for Windows Phone 8 handsets starting October 21. An official launch is likely to follow in early November.

A source close to Microsoft and AT&T has stated that pre-orders for Windows Phone 8 handsets will be available for pre-0rder on October 21, according to a report from The Verge. AT&T’s pre-order will include the Nokia-made Lumia 920 and the 8X from HTC on the phone side of the spectrum. Representing the Windows 8 tablet offerings, the Samsung Ativ Smart PC and Asus Vivo Tab RT will also be available for pre-order on October 21 and will launch October 26.

Microsoft and AT&T are balking at the reports for the time being. A Microsoft spokesperson has gone as far as to say, “Windows Phone 8 phones will be available to customers later this year.” While her statement almost contains useful information, it would make sense for Microsoft to start pre-orders in anticipation of a holiday season launch. Given that tablets running Windows 8 will be available as soon as October 26, it would seem likely that phones would be hot on their heels in early November. Add to that the fact that Microsoft is rolling out updates to the built-in apps that will launch with all Windows 8 devices, and it’s pretty clear Microsoft is gearing up for a full force launch. AT&T has the exclusive rights to the Nokia Lumia 920, which is set to be the manufacturer’s flagship device. It’s definitely one that Windows Phone 8 fans are going to want to put a hold on before its official release.

For those on other carriers, it appears that Verizon and T-Mobile (see: Lumia 810) will be launching some Windows Phones as well this year. What those phones are and when they’re coming out, we’re not as sure about.


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/windows-phone-8-att-pre-orders/

Windows Phone 7.8-powered Alcatel One Touch View leaks

Alcatel has been using Android to power its smartphones, but it seems it will be moving into Windows Phone territory - not high-end WP8 devices, but an entry-level WP7.8 phone instead.

It will likely be called Alcatel One Touch View and its specs make it a competitor to the Nokia Lumia 610 and the rumored Lumia 510.

According to Hi-Tech Mail.ru, the One touch View will be powered by a Snapdragon MSM7227A chipset with a single 1GHz Scorpion core, 512MB of RAM and Adreno 200 GPU (both Lumias have 256MB RAM, which limits app compatibility).


Alcatel One Touch View

The screen on the Alcatel WP7.8 phone will reportedly be a 4" IPS LCD of WVGA resolution. The phone will have a 5MP main camera (likely shooting VGA video) with LED flash and a VGA front-facing snapper.

Connectivity features include 3G, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The phone has only 4GB of built-in storage (of which 2.9GB will be available to the user) and since this is WP7.8 it's not expandable.

The Alcatel One Touch View is expected to launch by the end of the year with a price set at 8000 rubles or less ($260, €200). The Nokia Lumia 510 is rumored to have a $150 price tag, so the View might find it hard to compete if the pricing rumors pan out.

Source (in Russian)


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/windows_phone_78powered_alcatel_one_touch_view_leaks-news-4922.php

First impressions of the Windows 8 Acer W510 tablet

Acer announces the new W510 tablet PC, complete with a Bluetooth keyboard dock, 10-point capacitive touch for Windows 8, and a carrying case.

Another week, another Acer tablet incorporating Windows 8 to prep for the upcoming launch of the new OS. In this case, the Acer W510 tablet is similar to last week’s Acer W700 in that they both share a dockable capability. For the Acer W510, the 10.1-inch tablet connects to a Bluetooth keyboard and comes with its own suede carrying case for those on the go.

W510 Acer presentation modeLike all other Acer products announced so far, the W510 tablet offers a 10-point capacitive touch, 1366 x 768 resolution display under Gorilla Glass 2. The device is meant to be as convertible as possible — with the Bluetooth keyboard doubling as a presentation stand if you tilt it back 295 degrees. Other specs include an Intel Atom Z2760 processor, 2GB of RAM, an 8-megapixel back-facing camera, 2-megapixel front-facer — both cameras can capture 1080p videos, mind you — micro-HDMI and Micro-SD ports, and a 32GB solid state drive.

For those who take their tablets most places they go, the W510 also has GPS sensors built-in to maximize usage of location-based applications. Combine all the spec with a nice, aluminum body and this looks and feels like a superior gadget for those looking to venture outside of the Apple iPad — and maybe even the upcoming Windows Surface — realm.

Like the Acer W700, the W510 is thin and lightweight, measuring in at 0.35-inch of thickness and 1.27 pounds. It also boasts a battery life of 18 hours when connected to the Bluetooth keyboard dock, and nine hours when used alone. In comparison, the third-generation iPad boasts 10-hours of battery life but there are currently mixed reviews of how the spec has changed post-iOS 6 update.

At a lightly more limited capacity than the W700, the Acer W510 will make a solid choice for those looking for a decent tablet without breaking the bank at the starting price of $500, but that’s without the keyboard dock. With the dock will bump total retail price up to $750 including a 64GB SSD. The device is slated for a November 9th release.


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/first-impressions-of-the-windows-8-acer-w510-tablet/

Samsung hits reverse, creates tiny 3-inch Galaxy Music phone

Samsung announces the Galaxy Music, a tiny 3-inch Android phone with a penchant for tunes.

Samsung, the company best known for its gigantic 5-inch phones, has officially revealed the Galaxy Music, a small, 3-inch budget phone with a focus on music. On paper, the Galaxy Music isn’t likely to impress you, but if audio support is the main thing you look for in a smartphone then it might pique your interest.

It supports a wide variety of audio file formats including MP3, OGG, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, WAV, MID, IMY, FLAC, and WMA. It also boasts a built-in FM radio and, while it comes with just 4GB onboard memory, there is a microSD card slot so you can boost that up to 32GB. There is also a dedicated music button, dual front-facing stereo speakers, and support for Sound Alive and SRS modes.

If you want a dual-SIM phone then you’ll be pleased to hear there is a Galaxy Music Duos variant. There’s no word on the processor, but the display is 3 inches with a disappointing 240×320 pixel resolution. It runs Android 4.0 (ICS), has 512MB of RAM, and a 3-megapixel camera with no flash. There’s no support for LTE, but it does have a 9-lumen WVGA Projector on the top.

You’ll find the usual array of Samsung apps pre-loaded, the Touchwiz interface, and access to the Samsung Music Hub.

It’s not the prettiest phone we’ve ever seen, but it’s certainly different. We’ll keep you posted on availability and pricing.


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/boogie-on-down-with-the-samsung-galaxy-music/

Android 4.2 turns up in Google Analytics data

Android 4.2 turns up in Google Analytics data
It's coming soon, but when? When?

Forget Jelly Bean, all the cool kids are talking about Android 4.2 these days and although not yet announced, it has started showing up in website analytics data.

We're expecting to see Android 4.2 (possibly named Key Lime Pie although it's unlikely) launch in October or November, as an iterative update rather than a major new Android version.

Testing seems to be well underway, as Android Authority has tracked down some visits to its website showing up in Google Analytics as coming from Android 4.2 devices.

These visits go way back to August 2012, presumably around the time that testing on the next version of Android began.

Devices

But that's not all; they managed to confirm which actual handsets were using the Android 4.2 software; the Nexus 7, Galaxy Nexus, Xperia Arc S and even the budget friendly Samsung Galaxy Y - all familiar faces which we would hope will get the update to Android 4.2 once it's announced (apart from the Y, which could be a surprise package).

But two handsets named Occam and Manta also showed up; these are speculated to be Motorola-made Android devices, with the Occam supposedly a smartphone and the Manta an Android tablet.

Whether these turn out to be new RAZR handsets or even Motorola-made Nexus devices remains to be seen, but we'll be keeping an eagle eye out for any official news from Google or Motorola on the matter.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/android-4-2-turns-up-in-google-analytics-data-1103144

Huawei and ZTE respond to security row, suggest investigation should include Western firms

ZTE Logo Neon

Huawei and ZTE respond to accusations they pose a security threat to the US, with ZTE suggesting the investigation needs to be extended.

Last week, Huawei and ZTE were going about their business as usual, but this week, they’re the focal points of a report published by the US House Intelligence Committee, accusing them of being threats against US national security.

The report, which is the result of 12-months of research, concludes that the two Chinese companies cannot be trusted, and could be embedding software capable of spying on US citizens in its telecommunications hardware. The recommendation is to block all US company acquisitions by Huawei and ZTE, and that companies should not use their products.

Now that the report has been released, it’s easy to see why the committee feels this way, as both Huawei and ZTE failed to provide a lot of information, documentation and answers to a variety of questions. Hardly the response of those with nothing to hide. However, there are two sides to every story, and Huawei and ZTE have now responded to the accusations, publishing statements of their own that — naturally — tell a slightly different one to that of the report.

Huawei starts out by saying “The United States is a country ruled by law, where all charges and allegations should be based on solid evidence and facts. The report … failed to provide clear information or evidence to substantiate the legitimacy of the Committee’s concerns.”

The company says it “hoped to ensure the investigation would be fact-based and objective in its review” and that it “cooperated with the Committee in an open and transparent manner,” but “despite our best effort, the Committee appears to have been committed to a predetermined outcome.”

Huawei accuses the Committee of ignoring its proven track record of network security in the United States, and to the “large amount of facts we have provided,” as well as using “many rumors and speculations to prove non-existent accusations.”

It closes with “we will continue to do the best we can to provide our customers with safe, convenient and equal access to information and communications services.”

ZTE makes a recommendation of its own

ZTE has also published a statement on its website. It takes a different approach to Huawei, perhaps because it got off comparatively lightly in the report, by talking about its “vendor-neutral” Trusted Delivery Model; a service where its hardware, software and firmware is examined by an independent US government laboratory. ZTE says it offers this to all its global partners, including 140 governments.

The most interesting part of ZTE’s statement comes later though, beginning with a quote from the company’s director of global public affairs. He says “It’s noteworthy that, after a year-long investigation, the Committee rests its conclusions on a finding that ZTE may not be ‘free of state influence.’ This finding would apply to any company operating in China.”

He continues with “Virtually all of the telecom infrastructure equipment now sold in the US and throughout the world contains components made, in whole or in part, in China.” Here’s the cheeky part: “Particularly given the severity of the Committee’s recommendations, ZTE recommends that the Committee’s investigation be extended to include every company making equipment in China, including the Western vendors. It’s the only way to truly protect US equipment and US national security.”

One could take this section of the statement as being a wry attack on the document’s hypocrisy, or those already wearing tin-foil hats could interpret it as “it doesn’t matter what you do, we’re listening anyway,” presumably followed by a maniacal laugh.

The fallout from the damaging report has already claimed it first victim too, as Cisco has ended a sales partnership with ZTE, after it launched an enquiry into the Chinese company for selling Cisco-branded products in Iran, breaking international trade embargoes.

Who will be next?


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/zte-and-huawei-respond-to-security-row/

LG Optimus Nexus smartphone shows up in photos

LG Optimus Nexus smartphone shows up in photos
Are we about to see the LG Optimus Nexus?

Images claiming to show off the next Nexus device have appeared online, revealing a joint venture between Google and LG.

In the past Google has teamed up with HTC for the initial Google Nexus One, and then switched over to Samsung for the Google Nexus S and the most recent Samsung Galaxy Nexus.

Rumours surrounding the next incarnation of the Nexus range are rife, with suggestions that the search giant is looking at other manufacturers to produce the handset, with LG seemingly heading the pack.

LG Optimus Nexus - LEAK

Disco time

Now images have popped up on Belarusian site Onliner, which apparently show off the LG made handset, complete with a disco-ball effect rear body.

LG Optimus Nexus - LEAK

According to the snaps the phone sports a test version of Android Jelly Bean and the model number E960 - if the naming regime is carried over from the Galaxy Nexus, this handset could be called the LG Optimus Nexus.

Other rumours suggest that the Optimus Nexus will be a modified version of the LG Optimus G, although exact differences between the two handsets are currently unknown.

LG Optimus Nexus - LEAK

Google could announce the LG Optimus Nexus in the next month or so, just in time for the lucrative Christmas market, however we're yet to hear anything official from the big G or its potential Korean partner.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/lg-optimus-nexus-smartphone-shows-up-in-photos-1103091

State of the Web: U.S. condemns Huawei and ZTE for spying on us while spying on us

US government spying

The U.S. government may be hypocritical for condemning spying on Americans by the Chinese government — but hypocrisy is beside the point.

The U.S. House Intelligence Committee caused an international uproar on Monday with the release of a report that condemns two top Chinese mobile device manufacturers, Huawei Technologies and ZTE, for posing threats to U.S. national security.

The report (embedded below), which comes after a year-long investigation, also recommends that the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) block all “acquisitions, takeovers, or mergers involving Huawei Technologies and ZTE,” and that both U.S. government agencies and private U.S. companies should avoid using any devices or components made by the two Chinese technology firms.

The problem, says the report, is that technology produced by these companies may include embedded spyware that is capable of stealing information and transferring it back to the Chinese government. “Based on available classified and unclassified information, Huawei and ZTE cannot be trusted to be free of foreign state influence and thus pose a security threat to the United States and to our systems,” reads the report. The Committee says the companies have failed to provide adequate information to assuage concerns about their facilitation of spying for the Chinese government.

While both companies deny the Committee’s findings, the FBI, the Office of the National Counterintelligence Executive, and independent experts believe threats of spying and cyber-espionage from the Chinese government are real and serious.

“The Chinese government has hackers who work for them as full time employees, and are used to launch attacks on the U.S. and used to steal intellectual property from many different institutions in the U.S.,” Dr. Darren Hayes, chairman of the Computer Information Systems Program at Pace University in New York, told me during a interview. He adds that “China is the worst offender when it comes to cyberattacks and stealing intellectual property. There’s a couple of different things they focus on. Stealing intellectual property is one. And retaliation for certain things that the U.S. has done.”

In short, there is no denying that blocking Huawei, ZTE, and any other companies that could possibly transfer sensitive governmental and private business data to the Chinese government is a good move, assuming the Committee report is accurate — especially considering the reach and importance of our telecommunications systems.

Of course, all of this would be far more commendable if the U.S. government weren’t already using American telecommunications system to spy on its own citizens — at least, that’s the spiteful criticism of the report we heard repeatedly around the Web on Monday. And given the state of things, it’s one I almost fell into making myself. 

While domestic spying has a long history in the U.S., starting in earnest with the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover (PDF), the surveillance activities of the federal government kicked into full gear in October, 2001, when President George W. Bush issued a secret presidential order that allowed the National Security Agency (NSA) to conduct widespread monitoring of U.S. citizens. The spying program was reportedly put in place to protect the U.S. against terrorist attacks, but innocent people like you and I got roped into the mix.

As we learned back in 2005 and 2006, the NSA enlisted the help of AT&T, which transmitted terabytes of citizens’ communications data from room 641A of AT&T headquarters in San Francisco. Since then, the program has only grown bigger, and burrowed deeper into our lives. NSA whistleblower William Binney recently revealed the operation now requires the use of far more rooms.

“I think there’s 10 to 20 of them,” Binney told Wired in March. “That’s not just San Francisco; they have them in the middle of the country and also on the East Coast.”

This expansion is detailed in a massive cache of Department of Justice documents obtained in September by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, which outline the “exponential” growth of warrantless wiretaps, including pen register and trap-and-trace — mechanisms that allow law enforcement to collect hoards of data about our online communications without the need for a probable-cause search warrant.

During the Obama administration, the use of these surveillance mechanisms has become more firmly engrained into our legislation. Last May, President Obama confounded supporters by renewing two provisions of the Patriot Act (Sections 206 and 215), and Section 6001 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorist Prevention Act of 2004, which further strengthened warrentless wiretapping authorities. And last month, a nearly 3-to-1 majority of House Members voted to renew the FISA Amendments Act, despite warnings from dissident Members that the measure violates the Fourth Amendment rights of Americans.

To top it all off, a Congressional inquiry from earlier this year revealed that U.S. law enforcement demanded wireless carriers turn over customer data a staggering 1.3 million times in 2011 alone.

In other words, it’s not only smartphone companies in cahoots with the People’s Republic of China that we have to look over our shoulders for. We are being watched — and the technology that we all rely upon every day is being used against us, by us — and by them. It’s almost enough to make you disconnect altogether. Almost.

Despite the genuinely frightening and infuriating reality of domestic spying programs, it would be foolish to argue that the U.S. government should allow any foreign government to install countless eyes and ears within our borders — a feat that appears to be near the top of the Chinese government’s agenda. Every cybersecurity expert I spoke with over the past few weeks has, without fail, independently pointed a finger at China as a primary source of cybersecurity attacks against American systems — and that was before this House Intelligence Committee report landed in our laps.

Does it feel hypocritical of the U.S. government to take a stand against spying on Americans while simultaneously keeping tabs on every email, text message, or phone call we transmit? Absolutely — but as far as prohibitions on Huawei and ZTE are concerned, feelings of hypocrisy are entirely irrelevant. The likely danger posed by the widespread use of these companies’ devices exists regardless of U.S. domestic surveillance activities, Constitutionally-dubious though they may be.

Bottom line: Threats to U.S. national security are real. And technology is making us more vulnerable. The struggle we face is deciding how to deal with these threats without smothering our Constitutional rights, and how to avoid allowing technology to create more problems than it solves. Finding solutions to these slippery questions is a valid, essential exercise. Like it or not, the U.S. government helped answer the latter riddle on Monday — but clearly, more work lies ahead for us all.

Huawei-ZTE Investigative Report (FINAL)


Source : http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/us-government-spying-huawei-hypocrisy/

ZTE: 'Our equipment is safe and poses no threat to US'

ZTE: 'Our equipment is safe and poses no threat to US'
So just chill out ok

ZTE has confirmed that its devices are safe and that they do not pose a threat to US telecoms, in an attempt to quash the recent negative press surrounding the brand.

We reported yesterday that the US Intelligence Committee said both ZTE and Huawei handsets should be banned from the United States of America, as the Chinese mobile manufacturers posed a threat to national security.

Both firms we quick to rebuff the claim, with Huawei stating the allegations were "baseless suggestions", while ZTE said it "profoundly disagrees" with the report, and now the latter has revealed more information on why it's tech is safe for US consumption.

Recognised by 140 governments, 500 networks

The company states: "ZTE's Equipment is safe and poses no threat to US telecommunications infrastructure".

The Chinese manufacturer has provided evidence of its safety to the US Committee, claiming: "ZTE has presented the Committee with ample facts that demonstrate ZTE is China's most transparent, independent, globally focused, publicly traded telecom company."

Among the range of facts presented to the Committee, ZTE pointed out it was already "recognised as a Trusted Delivery Partner by 140 governments and 500 network carriers" and "has an unbroken history as a commercial telecom technology innovator for three decades."

ZTE has suggested that the US Intelligence Committee should broaden its investigation to all manufacturers who have devices produced in China, as that "is the only way to truly protect US equipment and US national security."


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/zte-our-equipment-is-safe-and-poses-no-threat-to-us-1103074

Samsung Galaxy Music goes official, has a dual-SIM version too

Samsung has just officially announced the Galaxy Music. The smartphone is aimed at music lovers on a tight budged, who want to get an Android-packing device with superb sound quality and advanced music player features.

Running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, the Galaxy Music is built around 3.0-inch QVGA TFT display. Sadly, the processor specs haven't been fully disclosed yet, but we know there's 512MB of RAM and 4GB of storage available. Happily, microSD card slot is available to expand the memory by up to 32GB.

There's a 3MP fixed-focus main camera at the back with no flash. Connectivity is covered by Wi-Fi b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 3.0 and microUSB port.

The little smartphone also features a 9-lumen WVGA projector. Just like with Samsung's other projector-packing smartphone, the Galaxy Beam, the one on the Galaxy Music is placed at the top of the device.


Official photos of the Samsung Galaxy Music

Measuring 110.1 x 59.0 x 12.25mm, the Galaxy Music weighs 106.9 grams. It packs a 1,300mAh battery, but ratings haven't been published yet.

As its name suggests, the Samsung Galaxy Music packs some cool music enhancing features such as dual frontal stereo speakers, Sound Alive, SRS and Smart Volume. There's also a dedicated Music key, which provides a quick access to the music player.

Pricing and availability are still a mystery, but Samsung will also launch a dual-SIM version of the device called Galaxy Music Duos.

Source | Via


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/the_samsung_galaxy_music_is_now_official_has_a_dualsim_version_too-news-4921.php