Monday, March 11, 2013

Samsung teases the Galaxy S 4 with a dark and mysterious image

We are just two days away from the official unveiling of the next generation Galaxy S smartphone – tentatively called the Galaxy S 4 – in New York. But it seems Samsung is having a hard time keeping the phone under wraps until then and has decided to give us a sneak peek.



There is not a whole lot to see here. All we have is a dark and mysterious image that shows one corner of the phone. You will notice that the phone looks quite similar to the Galaxy S III, as we have seen from some of the leaked images before, and curiously, lacks an earpiece.

The conclusion we can draw from this is that the Galaxy S 4 indeed will look almost identical to the current Galaxy S III or that Samsung is messing with us by providing false information, lulling us into thinking that the new phone looks like the old one while they have something completely new to show at the event.

Considering the lengths that the company went through last year to keep the phone's design a secret, the second possibility does not seem all that implausible.

Source


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_teases_the_galaxy_s_4_with_a_dark_and_mysterious_image-news-5677.php

Lenovo CEO reaffirms Chinese interest in BlackBerry buyout

Lenovo CEO reaffirms Chinese interest in BlackBerry buyout
Could Lenovo's plentiful financial resources revive BlackBerry?

Chinese PC manufacturer Lenovo has once again indicated it is interested in a potential BlackBerry deal, sending shares in the Canadian smartphone company soaring on Monday.

Speaking to French newspaper Les Echos, Lenovo CEO Yang Yuanqing admitted that a buyout might be in the cards as the company seeks to gain more traction in the western mobile market.

He said that a deal "could possibly make sense, but first I need to analyze the market and understand what exactly the importance of this company is."

The inflammatory comments come after CFO Wong Wai Ming told Bloomberg in January that Lenovo was "looking at all opportunities," one of which was BlackBerry.

Rescue operation?

When Lenovo first publicly admitted its interest in buying the former mobile kingpin, BlackBerry CEO Thorsten Heins didn't exactly deny the possibility of a a partnership.

Heins, who in the past has not ruled out investment, a buyout or licensing BlackBerry 10 to other manufacturers said: "As always with these topics, we will talk about things when they are ready to be talked about and ready to be announced.

"There are other constituents in the process that need to be involved - if there would be anything."

How willing RIM is to sell-up are accept investment or a takeover bid remains to be seen.

Rather than crying over its fall from grace, the company has been on a PR offensive since the company launched its first handsets running BB10 on January 30, claiming strong early sales, while setting its sights on place in the mobile OS race.

Fair share

Monday's comments boosted the company formerly-known-as-RIM's share price, sending it up 14 per cent on Monday. Shares are up 26 per cent overall in 2013, Bloomberg reports, following a long period in the doldrums.

The next we may hear on the matter of Lenovo's interests is when Heins delivers the company's quarterly results to investors in a conference call on March 28.

That's unless Lenovo continues to continue to speak publicly on the matter.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/lenovo-ceo-reaffirms-chinese-interest-in-blackberry-buyout-1136864

Not exactly prime, Amazon phone release date reportedly delayed

Not exactly prime, Amazon phone release date reportedly delayed
Fabled Amazon Kindle phone isn't very Prime-esque

The long-rumored Amazon smartphone isn't acting at all like the company's speedy Amazon Prime two-day free shipping service, as its release date has reportedly been delayed.

That means the Amazon phone's speculated second quarter release date is likely to be missed, according to DigiTimes, which cites sources in flat panel supply chain.

While the exact reason for the delay isn't clear, the report does say that production at manufacturing partner Foxconn International Holdings "has not been as smooth as expected."

It goes on to indicate that the Seattle-based company's phone is still under an "engineering verification test period due to issues related to its mobile platform."

TechRadar reached out to Amazon for comment and will update this story if the company responds.

Amazon Kindle phone?

Whether or not the Amazon smartphone will run a version of Google's Android operating system like its Kindle Fire tablets is unclear.

However, today's rumor about its delayed release date echos previous reports that the phone's production is being handled by Foxconn subsidiary Ensky Tech.

Ensky Tech is responsible for manufacturing Amazon's e-book readers like the Kindle Paperwhite and tablets like the Kindle Fire HD.

The Foxconn subsidiary is said to be unlikely to start mass production of the Amazon smartphone until June, which means the rumored roadmap has been pushed back by at least three months.

When the Amazon phone's release date does roll around, however, analysts have suggested that it will be able to garner attention with a large screen size between 4 inches and 5 inches and a price as low as USD$150 (£101, AUD$146).


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/not-exactly-prime-amazon-phone-release-date-reportedly-delayed-1136858

Take that, eye scrolling: iPhone 5S said to have fingerprint scanner

Take that, eye scrolling: iPhone 5S said to have fingerprint scanner
Security could be the key to the iPhone 5S

The latest Apple rumors point - literally - to new security features built into the iPhone 5S.

According to the sometimes-questionable China Times, Taiwanese company Chipbond is developing touch display drivers for the next-gen iPhone to support both NFC and fingerprint scanning.

The rumor doesn't come as much of a surprise, especially following a recent Apple patent that would equip future iPhones with a fingerprint reader next to the home button.

Notably, Apple's patent described a liquid crystal security window for scanning fingerprints, which fits with Chipbond's specialty in developing LCD drivers.

iPhone 5S - the S stand for security

Rumors of fingerprint scanners and NFC support in Apple's devices trace back to last July when Apple bought mobile security firm AuthenTec for $356 million (UK£238 million, UA$346 million).

AuthenTec's specialization was in fingerprint scanning technology, a specialty shared by biosecurity firm Microlatch, which Apple has reportedly also been in talks with since last year.

While fingerprint scanning could be used as added security to unlock a device, it's also rumored to be a key part of the next iPhone's NFC support by asking for fingerprint confirmation to make payments more secure.

Apple's actions speak to its interest in using fingerprint scanning and NFC technology in its devices, and if the rumors are true and the chips are already in production, then we may be looking at a key iPhone 5S security feature.

How this special features stacks up to the Galaxy S4's reported eye scrolling tech, we may not know for a few months. But fingerprints vs. eyeballs could make for an interesting dichotomy between the two firms.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/take-that-eye-scrolling-iphone-5s-said-to-have-fingerprint-scanner-1136817

NFC and fingerprint scanner rumored for iPhone 5S

NFC and fingerprint scanner rumored for iPhone 5S
Security could be the key to the iPhone 5S

The latest Apple rumors point to new security features with both a fingerprint sensor and Near-Field Communication reader built into the iPhone 5S.

According to the sometimes questionable China Times, Taiwanese company Chipbond is developing touch display drivers for the new iPhone to support both NFC and fingerprint scanning.

The rumor does not come as much of a surprise, following a recent Apple patent that would equip future iPhones with a fingerprint reader next to the home button.

Notably, Apple's patent described a liquid crystal security window for scanning fingerprints, which fits with Chipbond's specialty in developing LCD drivers.

iPhone 5S, the S stand for security

Rumors of fingerprint scanners and NFC support in Apple's devices trace back to last July when Apple bought mobile security firm AuthenTec for $356 million.

AuthenTec's specialization was in fingerprint scanning technology, a specialty shared by biosecurity firm Microlatch which Apple has reportedly also been in talks with since last year.

While fingerprint scanning could be used as added security to unlock a device, it is also rumored to be a key part of the next iPhone's NFC support by asking for fingerprint confirmation to make payments more secure.

Apple is clearly interested in using fingerprint scanning and NFC technology in its devices, and if the rumors are true and the chips are already in production then we may be looking at a key iPhone 5S security feature.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/nfc-and-fingerprint-scanner-rumored-for-iphone-5s-1136817

AT&T offers refurbished Samsung Galaxy Note II for $0.99

Samsung Galaxy Note II is still one of the most powerful droids and is one of the hot sellers in the market. The second generation phablet currently carries a price tag of $239.99 from Amazon, but a new deal on refurbished devices lets you have it for far less.



If you are planning to lay your hands on the Galaxy Note II and if you feel that the price tag is quite expensive, then AT&T is offering the refurbished Samsung Galaxy Note II for just $0.99. This is one of the best discounts on refurbished products that you can get, so it's certainly worth considering.

As expected, the offer will only be available with a new two year contract. Check out the official listing on the AT&T website for more information on plans and services.

Via


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/at_t_offers_revamped_samsung_galaxy_note_ii_for_099_-news-5676.php

Will Samsung 3D video conversion software pop up in Galaxy S4?

Will Samsung 3D video conversion software pop up in Galaxy S4?
2D to 3D and back again

The Samsung Galaxy S4 may offer a 3D camera, or so it seems from a new trademark filing made by the South Korean firm.

Filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office as trademark number 85866868 (there will be a quiz on that number), the mark is not exactly for a 3D Galaxy S4 lens, but instead a logo for a new 3D camera feature called "2D 3D Movie & Still."

The logo has circular arrows pointing between the words 2D and 3D, indicating that the feature can convert movies and still images between 2D and 3D formats.

According to the trademark, it was filed for under a class of patent covering "[a]pplication software for smart phones; application software for tablet computers; digital cameras; USB flash drives; mobile telephones; portable media players; portable computers; rechargeable batteries; smart phones; tablet computers; wireless headsets; lenses for cameras."

What device will support it?

The trademark's intended use for smartphones, as well as the recent filing date on March 5, has led to speculation that the feature is intended for the Galaxy S4.

The trademark could just as easily apply to the firm's tablets or non-smartphone cameras, so a 3D camera in the Galaxy S4 is far from confirmed.

All the trademark indicates for certain is that Samsung is developing a feature to convert videos and photos from 2D to 3D and vice versa.

The Galaxy S4 is set to debut at Samsung's Unpacked event on March 14, so there's mercifully little time left for speculation. TechRadar will be in New York in 3D, high-def, surround sound, etc., so stay tuned for all the latest.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/will-samsung-3d-video-conversion-software-pop-up-in-galaxy-s4-1136772

Samsung 3D video converting software bound for Galaxy S4?

Samsung 3D video converting software bound for Galaxy S4?
2D to 3D and back again

The Samsung Galaxy S4 may offer a 3D camera, according to a new trademark filing from the Korean firm.

Filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office as trademark number 85866868, the mark is not exactly for a 3D Galaxy S4 lens, but instead a logo for a new 3D camera feature called '2D 3D Movie & Still.'

The logo has circular arrows pointing between the words 2D and 3D, indicating that the feature can convert movies and still images between 2D and 3D formats.

According to the trademark, it was filed for use with "Application software for smart phones; application software for tablet computers; digital cameras; USB flash drives; mobile telephones; portable media players; portable computers; rechargeable batteries; smart phones; tablet computers; wireless headsets; lenses for cameras."

What device will support it?

The trademark's intended use for smartphones, as well as the recent filing date on March 5, has led to speculation that the feature is intended for the Galaxy S4.

The trademark could just as easily apply to the firm's tablets or non-smartphone cameras, so a 3D camera in the Galaxy S4 is far from confirmed.

All the trademark indicates for certain is that Samsung is developing a feature to convert videos and photos from 2D to 3D and vice versa.

The Galaxy S4 is set to debut at Samsung's "Unpacked" event on March 14, so there is little time left for speculation. TechRadar will be there with all of the latest, 3D camera or not.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/samsung-3d-video-converting-software-bound-for-galaxy-s4-1136772

Samsung 3D video converting softward bound for Galaxy S4?

Samsung 3D video converting softward bound for Galaxy S4?
2D to 3D and back again

The Samsung Galaxy S4 may offer a 3D camera, according to a new trademark filing from the Korean firm.

Filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office as trademark number 85866868, the mark is not exactly for a 3D Galaxy S4 lens, but instead a logo for a new 3D camera feature called '2D 3D Movie & Still.'

The logo has circular arrows pointing between the words 2D and 3D, indicating that the feature can convert movies and still images between 2D and 3D formats.

According to the trademark, it was filed for use with "Application software for smart phones; application software for tablet computers; digital cameras; USB flash drives; mobile telephones; portable media players; portable computers; rechargeable batteries; smart phones; tablet computers; wireless headsets; lenses for cameras."

What device will support it?

The trademark's intended use for smartphones, as well as the recent filing date on March 5, has led to speculation that the feature is intended for the Galaxy S4.

The trademark could just as easily apply to the firm's tablets or non-smartphone cameras, so a 3D camera in the Galaxy S4 is far from confirmed.

All the trademark indicates for certain is that Samsung is developing a feature to convert videos and photos from 2D to 3D and vice versa.

The Galaxy S4 is set to debut at Samsung's "Unpacked" event on March 14, so there is little time left for speculation. TechRadar will be there with all of the latest, 3D camera or not.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/samsung-3d-video-converting-softward-bound-for-galaxy-s4-1136772

BlackBerry Z10 pricing and availability for AT&T announced

AT&T has just announced the pricing and the availability of the BlackBerry Z10 smartphone on its network. The handset that is expected to start the BlackBerry fightback is going to hit the shelves of the carrier's stores on March 22.

AT&T starts taking pre-orders tomorrow, March 12. Both regular and corporate customers will be able to pre-order the Z10.

Just as expected, the AT&T users will be able to get the BlackBerry Z10 for $199.99 on a two-year contract (unlike their Canadian friends who have to sign for a three-year agreement).

The BlackBerry Z10 runs on the brand new BlackBerry 10 OS and features a 4.2-inch HD display, an 8MP snapper with 1080p video recording and LTE support. It's powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Plus chipset with a 1.5GHz dual-core Krait processor, Adreno 225 graphics and 2GB or RAM. The Z10 is available in black and white versions.

By the way, BlackBerry already released the first major update for the BlackBerry 10 OS and it brings various stability and performance improvements. You can check all about our encounter with the BlackBerry Z10 here.

In case you've missed the news, BlackBerry is also preparing smartphone with a physical QWERTY keyboard running on the new OS - the BlackBerry Q10, but it won't hit the market before May.

Source


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/blackberry_z10_pricing_and_availability_for_at_t_announced-news-5675.php

Nokia confirms Microsoft hit pause on Windows Phone 7.8 update

Nokia confirms Microsoft hit pause on Windows Phone 7.8 update
Nokia Russia confirms delay for Windows Phone 7.8 update

If you're still waiting for Windows Phone 7.8 to hit your older Nokia Lumia handset, you may need some extra patience while Microsoft pauses its global rollout of the update.

NDTV Gadgets reported Monday that Microsoft has indeed suspended the Windows Phone 7.8 update it started rolling out to older Nokia Lumia handsets at the end of January.

The news comes by way of Nokia Russia's official Twitter account in response to an inquisitive Lumia 800 owner waiting anxiously for their update to hit.

The Windows Phone 7.8 update is largely a cosmetic one, but early supporters of the platform have been eager to download it since Microsoft first started pushing it to Lumia smartphones on January 31.

Live Tile fix

While disappointing, the news is hardly a surprise - Microsoft Vice President of Windows Phone Joe Belfiore confirmed a reportedly "minor issue" with the update's new Live Tiles via Twitter back on March 3, promising a fix would be forthcoming.

Vodafone Germany was actually the first to halt the Windows Phone 7.8 update, announcing the news on the company's message boards back on February 23 without a specific reason for the delay.

In addition to Live Tiles on the Start screen, the 7.8 update introduces Windows Phone 8-style branding and icons for Games, Office and Windows Phone Store, while also doubling the number of theme and accent colors to 20.

Although users of older Nokia Lumia handsets will have to wait just a bit longer, at least they know it's coming: Owners of non-Nokia Windows Phone 7.5 handsets are still waiting to learn if their devices will be eligible for the update in the first place.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/nokia-confirms-microsoft-hit-pause-on-windows-phone-7-8-update-1136751

Early iPhone prototype is fugly, huge, not very phone-like

Early iPhone prototype is fugly, huge, not very phone-like
Call, text, surf the web - and you can sleep on it! (credit: Ars Technica)

Huge, chunky, ugly slabs of grey aren't exactly the design aesthetic we've come to expect from Apple in its line of iDevices, but these photos show how the iPhone started out as just that.

The pictures of this early iPhone prototype come from an ex-Apple employee who shared them with verbose tech blog Ars Technica.

The device shown has more in common with an iPad than an iPhone, with dimensions of 5-inches x 7-inches - and thickness-wise it's closer to a MacBook with a depth of 2-inches to contend with. Not exactly pocket-friendly.

iPhone prototype
Is that an iPhone in your pocket... [credit: Ars Technica]

But it was never designed to be - this early model was intended to allow devs to nail down what would eventually become iOS. And while it may seem big to us, the source pointed out, "At the time, it was really impressive seeing basically a version of OS X running on it."

It came with USB, ethernet and serial ports which were all for the same purpose and probably would never have made it to the finished iPhone, although the source notes that "at that early date, no one knew what [the final device] would be".

iPhone prototype
...or are you just really pleased to see us? [credit: Ars Technica]

We're glad the design has moved on a step or two since then, that's for sure, and we're expecting the iPhone 6 to be a little more refined.

iPhone prototype
Check out the logic board on that [credit: Ars Technica]

Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/early-iphone-prototype-is-fugly-huge-not-very-phone-like-1136705

Samsung teases the Galaxy S IV with another video

Today, Samsung released another teaser for the Galaxy S IV, which continues the story of Jeremy Maxwell, the "secret messenger" of the unpacked event. Check it out:

There's a promise of at least one more clip at the end, which will likely be released before the unpacked event on Thursday - in case you haven't had your fair share of bad acting.

For more on the Galaxy S IV, go here, and be sure to check back with us for the event on March 14th.

Source


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_teases_the_galaxy_s_iv_with_another_video-news-5674.php

Android v BlackBerry smartphones for business

Android v BlackBerry smartphones for business
Fingers on BB or Android?

As bring your own device (BYOD) infiltrates SMBs' IT strategies, Google's Android operating system (OS) is becoming more widely used at work. There are productivity gains in its wide range of apps, so it is fast becoming an option for firms that don't want to spend a fortune on mobile devices.

The low cost of Android smartphones compared with those running other OSs such as BlackBerry's is one attraction, and their lead in the consumer market ensures they are familiar to many users.

But BlackBerry is still most prominent in the workplace as many CEOs are worried about integrating Android into their businesses because of concerns that it is insecure. With 99% of malware created for the OS, it's important that if Android is adopted, a clear internal strategy is in place.

Apps ecosystem

Android can be easily customised to provide some interesting and useful enterprise applications.

"There is a huge ecosystem of productivity applications and software readily available for Android, as well as native support for Java based sites and improved security measures," says Ernest Doku, Product Relations Manager at price comparison firm Uswitch Communications.

"The OS is fast becoming a good bet for those businesses looking for a stronger infrastructure and fewer overheads," he adds.

In addition to the choice of apps, surfing the web is often easier on an Android device than a BlackBerry, and there is often less lag time when using instant messaging apps such as Skype on Android.

But it's difficult to leave behind what is familiar. BlackBerry is still thought of as the business staple, and the Balance software on the new BB10 operating system allows a partition to be created between work and personal applications and data. BB10 provides tools for delivering work apps to mobile devices, solving many of the issues associated with the BYOD trend.

At the moment, Android does not have the equivalent to Balance but, if managed properly, the OS can be partitioned using third party software so that work and consumer apps and information remain separate.

David Emm, Senior Security Researcher at Kaspersky Lab, says: "Android can be attractive because it is so easily customisable and if you have the software in place you can partition it."

He adds: "There is nothing intrinsically insecure about Android OS, it's the open strategy."

Android partitioning

In addition, enterprise users will soon be able to partition Android in the same way as BB10 using Knox software, which Samsung announced at Mobile World Congress in February. The company is hoping to take on BlackBerry and bolster the adoption of its Android devices in business by offering a more secure version of the OS, which separates business and personal information on smartphones.

The Knox software runs a security enhanced version of Android, which has been developed by the National Security Agency (NSA), and users get enterprise-focused tools such as email, browser, contacts, calendars, file sharing, collaboration, CRM and business intelligence applications.

Whether a business decides to use Android, BlackBerry or Apple's iOS, the security measures are crucial. "When you have confidential business data you need to make sure it is secured," says Emm.

A well planned strategy is needed, involving measures such as remote wiping if a phone is lost or stolen, and a code of practice for employees that includes rules on multiple use.

"If you haven't thought about what would happen if a device is lost or stolen you could run into more problems," Emms says.

Effectively it's about management. "You create sandboxing, looking at what is on there if, for example, you lost a device. You can then remote wipe it. That's attractive to companies as they can wipe a phone."

With tightening budgets, BYOD and a business requirement for advanced capabilities, it is likely that many SMBs will look to Android as a mobile OS, especially with the signs from Knox that more secure software is on the way. BlackBerry could struggle to maintain its lead in the enterprise.

Doku says: "As the Android market continues to expand and iOS bleeds into the corporate space from consumer popularity, BlackBerry may have a tough task on its hands remaining relevant in the SMB space."

Once there a security strategy in place, Android can provide benefits to many SMBs.

"Android has the benefit of flexibility but you must have a strategy in place," says Emm.

There is one more twist to the plot, with BlackBerry's recent indications that it is working on a secure workspace for Android and iOS apps on its phones. This could make it a little harder for the business user to decide which of the two they should choose.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/android-v-blackberry-smartphones-for-business-1136674

LG Optimus L5 II hits Brazil, global rollout to follow

LG has just announced the LG Optimus L5 II has started shipping. Brazil will be the first country to get the smartphone with the dual-SIM version debuting first.

Soon after the Brazilian launch, both single and dual-SIM versions of the LG Optimus L5 II will roll out in South and Central America, Europe, Asia, Russia, the Middle East and Africa.

In case you need a refresh, the Optimus L5 II was announced back in February and showcased at the MWC in Barcelona. It features a 4.0-inch WVGA IPS display, a 5MP snapper and is powered by a single-core 1GHz MTK processor. LG supplied the Optimus L5 II with Android 4.1 Jelly Bean for extra smooth user experience.

While there is no official information on the retail price, the Optimus L5 II is supposed to retail for about €180.


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_optimus_l5_ii_hits_brazil_first_global_rollout_to_follow-news-5673.php

Is this the Samsung Galaxy S4?

Is this the Samsung Galaxy S4?
Leaky leaky (credit: 52Samsung)

Said to be the dual-SIM Galaxy S4, pictures of a mysterious Samsung device have been posted over on Chinese forum 52Samsung.

The handset is labelled with the S4's model number GT-I9502 and, while appearing similar to the Galaxy S3 in its design, appears to be packed full of juicy S4-looking features.

Some of the images show the S4's specs, with the 1080 x 1920 display and quad-core processor certainly chiming with previously leaks we've seen.

This time there's nothing to be seen in the way of eye-scrolling features and no way to be sure if this is the 4.99" screen we've been expecting, but the new images do show the handset running Android 4.2.1. with 2GB of RAM and a 13-megapixel camera.

Screen dream

Real or fake? It could all be an expert Photoshop job, or Samsung using a fake case to throw us off the scent like it did in the run-up to the S3 launch. We have to say that the design surprises us a little, given that we were expecting a return to the more squared look of the S2.

Whatever the case, there's not long to wait now to find out, with Samsung's "Unpacked" event happening on March 14. We'll be in New York to give you the first word when it all spills out the box.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/is-this-the-samsung-galaxy-s4-1136650

Galaxy S IV I9502 photos leak, is this the final design?

A bunch of leaked images has surfaced on a Chinese forum, revealing a Samsung Android smartphone with two SIM card slots, a 1080p screen, 2 gigs of RAM, 13 MP camera, an 1.8 GHz clocked processor and Android 4.2.1 on board.


Samsung Galaxy I9502

The smartphone goes by the name of GT-I9502, which suggests it's the dual-SIM version of the Galaxy S IV for China Unicom. If that turns out true this could be the design of Samsung's next flagship device. Also the dotted underlayer of the back panel resembles that of the invite Samsung sent for its upcoming Galaxy S IV announcement, which adds credibility to these leaked images.


Samsung Galaxy I9502

However, given how good Samsung was in keeping the design of its recent flagships, this could also be simply a testing holster for testing purposes. The practice of using generic prototype shells in order to protect the final design was used by Samsung with both the Galaxy S III and the Galaxy Note II. That way when the phone is sent to carriers and other companies the design couldn't be leaked.


Samsung Galaxy I9502

If this turns out to be the Galaxy S IV's final design then Samsung hasn't really changed anything significant about its flagship. On one hand it doesn't seem likely that Samsung is getting tired of it, given that most of its smartphones are now using the glossy plastic nature-inspired design. But on the other hand people seem eager for a change and want something more and Samsung usually listens to the voice of the street.

We're getting closer to the March 14 unveiling of the Galaxy S IV so we don't have to wait that long to find out.

Source (in Chinese) | Via


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/galaxy_s_iv_i9502_photos_leak_is_this_the_final_design-news-5672.php

Samsung Galaxy S IV I9502 photo leaks, is this the final design?

A bunch of leaked images has surfaced on a Chinese forum, revealing a Samsung Android smartphone with two SIM card slots, a 1080p screen, 2 gigs of RAM, 13 MP camera, an 1.8 GHz clocked processor and Android 4.2.1 on board.


Samsung Galaxy I9502

The smartphone goes by the name of GT-I9502, which suggests it's the dual-SIM version of the Galaxy S IV for China Unicom. If that turns out true this could be the design of Samsung's next flagship device.


Samsung Galaxy I9502

However, given how good Samsung was in keeping the design of its recent flagships, this could also be simply a testing holster for testing purposes. The practice of using generic prototype shells in order to protect the final design was used by Samsung with both the Galaxy S III and the Galaxy Note II. That way when the phone is sent to carriers and other companies the design couldn't be leaked.


Samsung Galaxy I9502

If this turns out to be the Galaxy S IV's final design then Samsung hasn't really changed anything significant about its flagship. On one hand it doesn't seem likely that Samsung is getting tired of it, given that most of its smartphones are now using the glossy plastic nature-inspired design. But on the other hand people seem eager for a change and want something more and Samsung usually listens to the voice of the street.

We're getting closer to the March 14 unveiling of the Galaxy S IV so we don't have to wait that long to find out.

Source (in Chinese) | Via


Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/gti9502_leaks_in_the_wild__could_it_be_the_galaxy_s_iv-news-5672.php

LG Optimus L5 II hits Brazil, rest of the world to follow

LG Optimus L5 II hits Brazil, rest of the world to follow
Brown shag pile not included

LG announced its Optimus L5 2 at MWC 2013 as yet another entry-level smartphone from the Korean firm in its bafflingly-named low-to-mid-range line-up.

We knew the UK would be getting the handset at some point between April and June, but LG has now confirmed that it will be coming to South and Central America, Europe, Asia, Russia, the Middle East and Africa too, with some regions getting a dual-SIM model.

The company hasn't confirmed the LG Optimus L5 II's international pricing yet, but we're expecting it to land for around £120 SIM-free ($180/AU$175) or around £10 a month on a contract.

Middle child syndrome

The successor to the LG Optimus L5, the II comes with a 4-inch IPS screen and a battery that LG reckons you'll only need to charge after two full days of use.

It's running Android Jelly Bean but comes with only a single-core 1GHz chip and 512MB of RAM.

When we got our mitts on one at MWC, leading us to brand it "a stylish, well-equipped proposition" for the price, so if you're after a cheap and cheerful Android it's definitely worth a look.

Stay tuned for our full LG Optimus L5 II review coming soon.


Source : http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/lg-optimus-l5-ii-hits-brazil-rest-of-the-world-to-follow-1136642

Online listings hint at upcoming Xperia SP and Xperia L

Pre-order listings for yet to be announced Sony Xperia SP and Xperia L have appeared on a number of sites online. While Amazon and eBuyer have mere placeholders set up for both the devices, LamdaTek and Irish retailer Micro Aid have put up both the phones for pre-order.



LamdaTek has listed the Xperia SP at £312.98 and the Xperia L at £219.18 with the stock being expected by March 19. Micro Aid, meanwhile, lists the phones at €389.79 and €270.46, respectively, with the stocks arriving on March 12.

Interestingly, we know next to nothing about either of the phones, other than their prices and availability, and usually it's the other way around. Xperia Blog believes the Xperia SP has a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro MSM8960T chipset, 4.55-inch 720p display, 8 megapixel camera, 8GB internal memory with microSD card support and an aluminum body.

Meanwhile, the Xperia L is said to have a 4.3-inch, FWVGA display, 1GHz dual-core Snapdragon processor, 8 megapixel camera, 8GB internal memory with microSD card and 1,700mAh battery.

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Source : http://www.gsmarena.com/online_listings_hint_at_upcoming_xperia_sp_and_xperia_l-news-5671.php