iPhone to take another step down, be sold at Wal-Mart
Posted October 13, 2008 at 09:50 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM APPLETELL - Not long after announcing that Best Buy would become the first non-Apple or AT&T store to sell the iPhone, Wal-Mart is next in line to sell the iPhone, according to Boy Genius Report. MORE »
WiMAX-ready laptop by ASUS
Posted October 13, 2008 at 07:22 PM by Cheng Hung
Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops
The ASUS M50Vm-A1WM sports a WiMAX-ready connectivity and a bunch of specs worthy of it being called a desktop replacement model.
For starters, the ASUS M50Vm-A1WM seems to have a very long model number, worthy of being used as my alphanumeric password. It is actually a variant of the ASUS M50Vm.
Aiming to become a desktop replacement model, it features a 15.4-inches WXGA+ screen, Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 2.26 GHz processor, 4GB of RAM, a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GS graphics card with 1024MB of memory, 250GB HDD, 1.3MP webcam with swivel, 4 USB ports, 1 Express Card slot, 1 Firewire port, 1 HDMI video output slot, an 8-in-1 card reader, and a good old 56k modem.
All these nifty features weigh a whopping 6.5 lbs. The ASUS M50Vm-A1WM has a 6-cell battery, but no word on its battery life, though. It’s being sold at Newegg for $1399.99.
Ready for the WinBerry?
Posted October 13, 2008 at 06:05 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM APPLETELL - Given the lack of excitement around any new Windows Mobile devices or versions, is a Microsoft buyout of RIM a cheaper alternative? MORE »
Deal of the Week: Best Buy tossing in Xbox 360 with select HDTVs
Posted October 13, 2008 at 04:30 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Best Buy is looking to bring gamers into the realm of HD by offering bundles that include Xbox 360 Arcade Consoles and HDTV’s made by Panasonic… MORE »
Mio intros Moov 500 series in Europe
Posted October 13, 2008 at 02:53 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation
Recently, Mio announced their new Moov 500 GPS series in Europe, within the 500 series are 8 nice GPSs. Unfortunately, for the time being, these GPSs will only be available in Europe.
Some common features in all of the 500 series are a 4.7-inch touch screen, TeleAtlas maps, and Bluetooth connectivity. The 560 and 580 come with text-to-speech capabilities, live local search using Bluetooth. The 500 and 510 have local search from desktop, the 510 and 580 come with real time traffic updates, and the 580 comes with an FM Transmitter.
Now, moving on to prices, as you can imagine, the GPSs with less features will cost less, so here we go. The Moov 500 Regional sells for 179 Euros, while the Moov 500 Europe sells for 199 Euros. The Moov 510 Regional costs 199 Euros, the Moov 510 Europe sells for 229 Euros. The 560 Regional sells for 199 Euros and the 560 Europe sells for 229 Euros. The 580 Europe sells for 249 Euros and the 580 Europe Plus sells for 279 Euros.
The only difference between the Moov 580 Europe Plus and the regular 580 Europe is that the Plus model comes with maps of 33 Western and Eastern European countries, as opposed to 22 Western countries by the preceding models.
Via [NaviGadget]
ASUS Eee All-In-One touch screen PC available for pre-order
Posted October 13, 2008 at 01:33 PM by Cheng Hung
Section: Computers, Desktops, Hardware
Play.com has the Asus Eee All-in-One Touch Screen desktop PC available for pre-order in the United Kingdom at a bit under $700. The computer should be released on November 20th.
The cool part about the PC is its 15.6-inch touch screen. Any computer that adds another input option is all right in my book.
The desktop uses an Intel Atom processor which should mean this is a light duty machine that does not consume too much electricity. This PC seems to be for casual computing as it only comes with 160GB of hard drive space and 1GB of RAM.
This Asus is running Windows XP Home, has built-in speakers, Wi-Fi, and in a nice surprise, Gigabit Ethernet. If you don’t care for Windows, Asus threw in the Express Gate OS, which boots up in only a few seconds.
I know it is technically a desktop PC and isn’t really meant to be lugged around, but a battery would have been nice so you can move the device around easily.
Product [Play.com]
Microsoft to aid users unable to take advantage of “New Xbox Experience”
Posted October 13, 2008 at 12:21 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Microsoft aims to aid users lacking the memory required to partake in the “New Xbox Experience” with alternate storage solutions… MORE »
Know your Local Authorities: Xbox Live “policeman” Stephen Toulouse
Posted October 13, 2008 at 11:06 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Stephen Toulouse, the lead program manager for policy and enforcement on Xbox Live, is just one of the people responsible for ensuring that Microsoft’s online service is kept in good order for its 12 million subscribers… MORE »
T-Mobile releases BlackBerry’s first flip phone; the Pearl Flip 8220
Posted October 13, 2008 at 10:20 AM by Arnold Zafra
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile
Finally, BlackBerry’s first flip phone, dubbed BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8220, was released exclusively by T-Mobile USA. BlackBerry Pearl users who would opt to upgrade to this new BlackBerry phone might find it similar to the original BlackBerry Pearl. With a new distinguishing feature, of course, that this one is a flip phone. Aside from being a flip phone, the BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8220 also features some great smartphone functionality.
Those who have used a BlackBerry handsets before know that one of the strengths of BlackBerry smartphones is their integration with enterprise email solution.
As for the Flip 8220’s flip design, don’t think that it is just for aesthetic purposes. RIM made sure that the flip design serve a purpose, and that is to protect the phone’s internal screen. The phone also has an external screen which displays calendar reminders, email, text messages and phone call previews.
Other features of the BlackBerry Flip 8220 include video recording and playback functionality, 2MP camera with digital zoom, stereo Bluetooth support, and a memory card slot. It also has Wi-Fi which will be useful for accessing T-Mobile’s Unlimited HotSpot Calling service.
The BlackBerry Flip 8220 is a Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE/Wi-Fi phone. It is available now at all T-Mobile retail stores and authorized dealers for $148.99
Read [Business Wire] Product [T-Mobile]
SlingCatcher released: Bridges your computer and television
Posted October 13, 2008 at 09:02 AM by Heidi Crossman
Section: Video, Accessories, DVD Players/DVRs, Portable Video, Gadgets / Other, Household, Miscellaneous
We have home media equipment that plays DVDs, one that plays Blu-Ray discs, one for electronic files, and maybe you still even own one that plays VHS. Today, you have the chance to add one more machine to your collection. But, the SlingCatcher can do so much for you, you will probably want to make room for it in your life.
Unlike the Slingbox which allows you to view your TV remotely only on a computer, the highly anticipated SlingCatcher by Sling Media lets you view television, video, audio and electronic files from your home on any television—even from afar!
You can take the SlingCatcher to your friends’ houses or on vacation with you and you will always have access to your library of movies, music and pictures. Why lug around a ton of discs and media players when the SlingCatcher can do so much? The thing that excites me the most? No more small screen viewing!
More SlingCatcher capabilities:
Watch your cable or satellite television from another television
Play media from any device attached to your home Slingbox
Access files off any USB drive
View your favorite audio and downloaded or streaming video from your PC
What do you need in order to get started? You’ll need a broadband Internet connection, a home network, and a television. The SlingCatcher is available now for $300 just about anywhere electronics are sold or you can buy direct from Sling Media and get your SlingCatcher and any Slingboxes you want at one time.
It is important to note that you don’t NEED a Slingbox to use a SlingCatcher. Many movies and TV shows are accessible on the Internet and a Slingbox is not needed in order to communicate with your computer. USB drives connect directly to the SlingCatcher. The only time a Slingbox is needed is to connect with your home television and media players.
Sling Media succeeds at providing superb customer service, which is evident on the posts at Sling Community and with their fast response customer requests (I was responded to within four business hours). Proof that Sling Media cares about and listens to their customers: In 2006, a comment was written by a customer who had the idea for a device that would “catch” all the media from his Slingboxes. Two years later, we have the SlingCatcher!
Already, the SlingCatcher has won an Innovations Award from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and a Best of CES from Laptop Magazine.
Firefox Mobile on Windows Mobile screenshots
Posted October 13, 2008 at 08:15 AM by Cheng Hung
Section: Computers, Software / Applications, Web, Web Browsers
Firefox Mobile, also known as Fennec, may become available for public download by the end of the year in the form of an alpha release. Early screenshots of Fennec have surfaced at the::unwired.
The screenshots show how Fennec looks like when running on a Windows Mobile Professional touchscreen smartphone. I must say that those screenshots looks pretty good! According to the developers, Fennec managed to score 88/100 on the Acid3 test, which is rather outstanding for a mobile browser.
It will be interesting to see how well it fares against Opera Mini and how it will handle extensions/add-ons. If anyone is wondering why the tiny Firefox is named “Fennec,” a fennec is a small fox.
Via [the::unwired]
Sony announces USB AC adapter for PS3 accesories
Posted October 13, 2008 at 07:05 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Tired of clogging your USB ports with your SIXAXIS controllers and Bluetooth headsets? Tired of leaving your Playstation 3 on just to charge these accessories because you either lack a computer or just like to waste electricity? Well then, Sony has just the product for you. Sony has announced an… MORE »
YouTube offers full length TV shows
Posted October 12, 2008 at 07:35 PM by Cheng Hung
Section: Web, Online Music/Video, Google
YouTube announced that they will be offering full-length TV shows online. Of course, Google, the proud owner of YouTube, will certainly place advertisements in the upcoming TV shows.
Google said that the advertisements would be slotted just like ads on television with interruptions appearing during, before and after the actual program That’s not so surprising considering that Google Ads contribute quite an amount of Google’s total revenue.
Well, for those who are dying to find out what TV shows will be offered, expect some CBS properties like “Star Trek” and “Dexter” thanks to a CBS-Google agreement that also allows revenue sharing. This is a bit of a strange deal considering the owner of CBS is going after YouTube (via Viacom) in a copyright infringement lawsuit.
Read [The New York Times]
More Nokia touchscreen phones are coming
Posted October 12, 2008 at 03:43 PM by Cheng Hung
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile
Nokia’s first touchscreen phone, Nokia 5800 was a blast for Nokia fanatics. Nokia has recently made another statement pertaining to the production of Nokia touchscreen phones in the future. In a recent event in India, Devinder Kishore, Marketing Director of Nokia revealed, “We will have lot of touchscreen phones coming up, including an N-series device very soon.”.
Well, this proves that Nokia is really up to the challenge to compete with its rivals and it’s evolving fast! With the promising looks of Nokia 5800, we are certainly anxious for the next touchscreen product from Nokia.
Read [Cellpassion]
T-Mobile has already sold 1.5 million pre-ordered G1’s
Posted October 12, 2008 at 02:00 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Web, Google
Who knew that the T-Mobile G1 would be this popular before it even was officially released? Certainly not Google, HTC, and T-Mobile. Their official estimates of how many G1’s to order was really low; so low that they had to order triple the initial amount and those G1’s sold would not arrive until after the official release, which is October 22. Just recently, they announced that they have sold off all 1.5 million units they had available for presale.
Before you start thinking this number includes the retailed G1’s, it does not. Since it hasn’t even been released yet, all 1.5 million G1’s have come strictly from pre-order. People have ordered G1’s based on only what they have read, few of the customers have actually tried one out for themselves. Google and T-Mobile have to hope that the G1 lives up to all the surrounding hype, because if it doesn’t, people will realize that and stick to the iPhone or other smartphones. However, if many people come to like the G1 a lot more than the iPhone, then Apple has a serious competitor.
It will be interesting to see what the general public thinks of the G1 when it becomes officially released on the 22nd.
Verizon to improve cell phone coverage with COLT
Posted October 12, 2008 at 10:54 AM by Natesh Sood
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile
If you pay attention to sports, then you probably know that the NLCS (National League Championship Series) is taking place right now between the Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers. As you can imagine during many popular events such as sporting events, many use their cell phones an awful lot at the same time. This can sometimes cause a cell phone traffic overload and prevent calls and texts from going through, which would definitely be annoying.
In efforts to combat this, Verizon is introducing something near the stadium known as COLT (Cell on Light Truck). This is a fully-functional mobile cell site that adds extra wireless capacity. Such extra measures will prevent from any calls to be dropped, texts not going through, and making surfing the Internet as smooth as possible. In addition, if you plan to use a laptop near the stadium, you will probably notice that you have access to better Broadband Internet.
Ed Chan, executive director of network for Verizon Wireless’ Philadelphia Tri-State Region had this to say about the whole process:
“During special events, traffic on our network can increase significantly. With the activation of this temporary cell site, our network is prepared to handle the expected increase in cell phone and laptop computer use at the stadium complex. We want to ensure that Phillies fans can make that long-awaited call to their friends and families once the ‘Fightins’ win this series.”
It looks like he’s a Phillies’ fan, and wants everyone to be able to call people when and if the Phillies win. Verizon has been trying to improve network capacity ever since they got involved with cell phones and they have invested nearly $45 billion dollars in projects such as this one. Furthermore, since 2000, they have spent around $1.5 billion in the Tri-State area alone.
It’s good that Verizon does things like this, I hope they will do something similar for the ALCS and World Series, and in future sporting events.
Via [PR Newswire]
BOOM! Top Apple news for the week of 10-05-2008
Posted October 12, 2008 at 08:33 AM by NEWS
Section:
Apple news—you crave it, you want it, you love it! Here’s a few of this week’s hottest from Appletell to get you started…
VoIP comes to iPhoneNew MacBooks to have Nvidia NsideAnd the “Brick” is…a manufacturing process?!CNN eagerly laps up fake story; Steve Jobs still not harmedGoogle’s Street View to be included in iPhone firmware 2.2
So Hot Right Now: Top 10 Gadgetell posts for the week of October 05, 2008
Posted October 11, 2008 at 02:45 PM by NEWS
Section:
Haven’t caught all of the Gadgetell news this week? Here’s your chance to catch up on this week’s top 10 articles!
Google Android app: Go green with Ecorio“Ecorio was one of the Android applications shown off at the T-Mobile G1 event. The app tracks “your mobile carbon footprint” and is one of the winners in the Google Android Developer Challenge. …” MORE »Foldable screens: Maybe. Maybe not“We have seen how LCD technology has revolutionized our daily lives, from cellphones to television displays. All of this occurred less than a decade ago, when we made our transition from CRT displays to LCD displays. Recently, researchers from…” MORE »T-Mobile continues G1 pre-sale, but there’s a catch“ Ever since the T-Mobile G1 was officially announced, it was available for pre-sale. At first, we thought T-Mobile had ended the pre-sale due to the popularity of the G1. However, it turned out they were only teasing us as they…” MORE »Gadgetell Guide: Finding a camera to fit your lifestyle“ When it comes to cameras, there is a great big variety to choose from, from camera phones to point and shoot to those fancy SLRs. It seems like every company is trying to sell you on the fact that you need…” MORE »Gimmicky gadgets: iLuv to give away products“The crushing economic pressure here in the USA is feeling its weight around the world and is going to impact us all. Tech companies often feel their products are luxuries and could be the first thing consumers avoid, potentially…” MORE »You’ve heard of beer goggles, now we’ve got Mail Goggles“ You know those late night e-mails you send out pleading for your girlfriend to take you back? Then, you wake up the next morning and remember all the reasons you broke up with her in the first place and think oh…” MORE »Netflix to charge more for Blu-ray discs“I just received an e-mail from Netflix saying that there will be an increase in the subscription fee for unlimited access to Blu-ray movies. The increase is a whopping $1. Assuming they aren’t singling me out, this should…” MORE »TV in holographic 3D: Coming to a living room near you“Just imagine watching Monday Night Football with the players looking like they are running right at you. Talk about experiencing the excitement of the game without actually being there. Or fighting the bad guys in your favorite video game (and you thought the Wii…” MORE »Tiny camera powered by ethernet cable“Power over Ethernet (“PoE”) is nothing new. Usually, PoE is used to power switches and other networking devices. A company called Baumer Ltd. is using PoE to power cameras over Cat6 cable. The “TXG camera” can shoot…” MORE »Best Buy preps new Insignia branded GPSs“ In a few weeks, Best Buy will formally introduce two of their own GPSs with their Insignia brand on them. One of the GPSs will be the 4.3-inch NS-CNV20 and the other will be the 3.5-inch NS-CNV10. These devices…” MORE »
Gadgetell Guide: Cloud Computing Office Suites
Posted October 11, 2008 at 11:00 AM by Shawn Ingram
Section: Computers, Software / Applications, Originals, Web, Web 2.0, Web Apps, Google, Features
The term “cloud computing” has been thrown around a lot recently in regards to many different web apps or Internet services. There are a lot of options out there for doing just about anything with cloud computing.
There are plenty of upsides and downsides to using apps in the “cloud” that is the Internet, with many of them being obvious. Though not a perfect substitute for desktop applications, cloud computing can theoretically replace a number of things normally done by computer software. The first and most obvious use of this is with office suites.
In this guide I’ll show you web apps that you can use to move your office to the cloud.
What do you need?The first thing you need to decide is what exactly you use your office suite for normally. Do you use your office suite for word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, or as a way to just jot down quick notes to yourself?
There are some cloud computing services that specialize in doing only specific aspects of office suites if you only use one of these. There are others, however, that offer the whole range of services that you would normally get if you were a Microsoft Office, iWork, or OpenOffice user.
Specialty services:
Word processing is possibly the most often use of an office suite. There are a number of sites that offer only word processing and/or text editing and that’s it.
gOffice and Edit PadTwo of these gOffice and Edit Pad offer simply a text box. gOffice has some small formatting options which Edit Pad does not. Both have the option to save your files, gOffice allows you to save files as Word documents, and Edit Pad saves as text files. Neither are particularly mind blowing, but they offer a quick option for writing files without having to open a word processor.
A lot of people, mainly students, tend to use office suites to take notes, whether it’s in a class, or in a meeting there are a few ways cloud computing can help with that. There are three very useful applications for note taking: Evernote, Backpack, and Notely. Notely is specifically targeted at college students, but can be used by anyone; Backpack is targeted at small businesses or those involved in a number of projects; and Evernote is essentially for everyone.
All have the ability to take notes, tag them, and search based on tags. Each also has a sharing feature, so you can share your notes with others who might need or want to see them. Being able to jot down quick notes and view them on any computer through a website is really invaluable.
There’s less frustration with having all your notes on your computer back at the office/home/dorm room, or on the laptop with a dead battery and no charger. Backpack and Evernote have other features which can constitute a separate guide.
While having specialized applications can be nice, what you really want is a full blown office suite. You want one that doesn’t require a long boot up time, can be accessed anywhere, and is reliable. There are two major players in this area: Google and Zoho. Both offer similar experiences, with slight differences.
Google DocsChances are you probably already have a Google account from Gmail, iGoogle, or one of its other services. Google also offers what it calls Google Docs, which can do word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Like nearly everything else Google does, Docs runs very fast. It autosaves your files every time you stop typing for a few seconds, and stores them all on its servers. Every file can be shared or emailed to anyone, and any changes made to the documents can be recorded in an RSS feed.
Presentations can be shown over the web to others, with a chatroom beside the slideshow so you an discuss what you are showing. All files can be downloaded onto your computer in a number of formats. The main downfalls of using Google Docs are the lack of formatting options for word processing, the boring options for Presentation, and the fact that it’s just one more thing to keep with Google which is bad if you dislike one company holding all of your information.
Zoho
Zoho Suite, as the other major cloud office suite, also does word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. A big draw of Zoho is how full-featured it is compared to software office suites. It’s especially obvious in Zoho Word which can be formatted as easily as and software word processor. All the options are right there as they would be in Microsoft Word; every option visible as an icon. Their spreadsheet is about on par with Google spreadsheets. Presentation lacks the Internet slideshow viewing of Google presentation. Major downfalls are the lack of Safari support for presentation, and it runs a bit slower than Google Docs.
Thoughts on having your office in the cloud
It might be hard right now to replace your office suite software with the cloud computing alternative. Although, as the technology gets better and more the availability of wireless internet increases through 3G, WiMAX and the like it could be much more of a possibility. For now, they are useful, especially if you don’t plan on using them anywhere without Internet access.
Hot gaming news for the week of 10-05-2008
Posted October 11, 2008 at 09:15 AM by NEWS
Section:
No need to scour the interwebs for hot gaming news, Gamertell‘s already done that for you! Here’s a look at this week’s top stories:
Screw the PS4 rumors: PS3 will keep us busy for yearsSome DSi features will be region lockedDSi? Do not want.Samantha Swift and the Hidden Roses of Athena blossomsRepeat Rumor: Xbox 360 to get external Blu-ray drive
Important Importables: Testing import DS styluses
Posted October 11, 2008 at 07:33 AM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Important Importables looks at and test taps four import, DS styli in order to see which would be most comfortable for gamers. MORE »
Pachter chimes in on “Wii HD” rumors
Posted October 10, 2008 at 09:25 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Wedbush Morgan Securities analyst Michael Pachter has expressed his support for the idea, revealing that he is “absolutely convinced” a “Wii HD” is in the works… MORE »
New Sat Nav software provides audio of historical France attractions
Posted October 10, 2008 at 08:44 PM by Natesh Sood
Section: Audio, Car Audio, Portable Audio, Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation
Normal POIs in GPSs can do only so much, such as letting you know when you come near a place that many find interesting. This new Sat Nav software takes basic POIs to the next level. This software will provide audio whenever you travel near a historically famous place in France, and will last about two minutes.
Developed by RoadTour, the software will work with most GPSs, such as GPSs by Garmin. For 19.95 pounds, or only about $27, you can get a concise historical background on nearly 620 French attractions. Many European countries are rich with culture, so a tourist will definitely benefit from something like this. RoadTour spent over 3 years developing accurate historical information for every piece of audio they have.
RoadTour worked with ZeVisit, a leading French tourist agency, who helped with famous attractions. Yann Le Fichant, CEO of ZeVisit, had this to say about their product:
“At ZeVisit, we strongly believe that audio is the only media that can make you feel strong emotions. What better than making every journey an emotional journey full of stories and imagination as well?”
In addition, Daniel Taylor, RoadTour’s leading inventor, had this to say about their product and ZeVisit:
RoadTour’s inventor, Daniel Taylor found that driving the roads of Europe could be a highly frustrating experience; “Sat Navs are great in getting us from A to B but hopeless at connecting us with the rich heritage of Europe. There are times driving France’s clear motorways, when you might as well be driving through England for all you’re finding out. Our goal with our French partner, Zevisit, is to bring France’s fascinating history, beautiful environment and rich culture to the millions of people who sometimes just drive straight to Provence, barely stopping for fuel on the way.”
Every time the GPS voice starts speaking about a historical place, you can expect to hear about and see pictures of towns, castles, battlefields, and related attractions. Additionally, the audio will play automatically, so the driver or passenger will not have to do anything if they wanted to hear about a historical place. In case you were worrying about the historical audio being distracting when you’re trying to get around France, well you will be happy to know that directional audio will be played over historical audio.
Lastly, here’s an example of something you can expect to hear:
“Alsace became part of Germany in 1871, when a far reaching city planning project was set in motion. The German empire decided to move its political and administrative headquarters to the old city centre of Strasbourg, close to La Place de la Republique...this is truly several cities in one. It is a city that is Catholic, Protestant and Jewish all at once and the three architectural styles co-exist marvellously. According to local, Roger Siffert, Strasbourg is like a very beautiful woman wearing a superb tuxedo but with tennis shoes or boots on her feet...in Alsace, they would say ‘pretty like a punch in the eye’!”
Overall, this seems to be a great product, I only hope that more GPSs will include something like this for tourists.
Sony Ericsson goes spy-tech in “James Bond Quantum of Solace”
Posted October 10, 2008 at 07:23 PM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Video, Communications, Accessories, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile
Talk about ideal product placement gone mad. In the upcoming James Bond Quantum of Solace movie, there are eight different characters sporting six different Ericsson phones. And nope, they don’t even have to tape over the brand name....I’m sure Sony paid plenty to be the featured phone of choice.
The six featured phones somehow also magically include the canceled Ericsson W707. The new character Elvis has that one. Bond himself sports the C902 (in the limited Titanium Silver color of course). The Bond girl uses the W350 in Graphic White color; for anyone wanting to be just like the love of Bond’s life remember Graphic White. As for the rest of the characters, we have M catching calls with the G700 (in Mineral Grey), Matthus using the G700, CIA with the W910, and another new character, Green, pockets the G900.
Anyone wanting to be just like “Bond, James Bond” can nab themselves one of the C902 limited edition Titanium Silver phones too. It comes pre-loaded with all kinds of Bond-spy goodies. You’ve got a spy game, the film’s trailer, and behind-the-scenes interviews. Then, as if that weren’t enough, they throw in some more for the Quantum of Solace fans. There are QoS ringtones, wallpapers, and themes. Expected availability date is sometime at the end of this year for a limited time only.
via [boygeniousreport]
Men, beware! This one’s for the ladies!
Posted October 10, 2008 at 06:20 PM by Heidi Crossman
Section: Gadgets / Other, Lifestyle, Web, Websites
Tech site RedFlagDeals.com opens the door of a female focused website
Walmart is often accurately accused of having everything you need all in one place. If you are a Walmart fan for that reason, and you are of the female gender, you might enjoy browsing the aisles of the Scarlett Lounge. The website is geared toward women—women who love to shop but need just a little more: women who need everything all in one place.
Shopping assistance and product suggestion is front and center on the site. What is so pertinent about a shopping site for Gadgetell’s female readers? It is what’s on the rest of the site.
Shop if you want, but you may be more interested in checking your horoscope or the forums and reading money saving tips and product reviews. For an example of the treasures inside Scarlett Lounge, go by their“Business Class” section, pick “Briefcase,” and be sure to look up “Tech Savvy Chick.” Your travels will land you in the middle of some rather unique electronic accessories to satisfy your tech tastes, in much of the same way as pink camouflage is available for the female hunter.
Site editor, Pegah Aarabi, determines the Business Class section of the website as greatly important for the world of working women and will be updated often. Pegah also states, “Tech Savvy Chick” is just one article, but future product reviews are possible, and sections like the monthly Inspirations column might feature some Tech Savvy Chicks.”
A note to men: Beware! Unless you like vibrant pinks, frilly background art, and an overall feminine touch, you might want to steer clear of this girly gear site and spend your time in its parent site, RedFlagDeals.com. But, if you are feeling brave, browse through some of the electronics showcased on Scarlett Lounge. You might just find the perfect Christmas present for your tech-loving girl!
Check out the site: [Scarlett Lounge]
Access controller developed to allow 1-handed play of PS2, PS3 and PC games
Posted October 10, 2008 at 05:19 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM GAMERTELL - Ben Heck and eDimensional have created a $129.95 dollar, one-handed controller specifically designed with handicapped players in mind. The Access Controller works with PCs, PS2s and PS3s, and has removable control modules so players can customize it. MORE »
Apple cleans up at British Technology Awards
Posted October 10, 2008 at 04:20 PM by NEWS
Section:
FROM APPLETELL - The results of this year’s British Technology Awards are skewed so heavily towards Apple that I have to wonder if Steve Jobs wasn’t a judge. MORE »
Who’s On Crack in tech: 10.10.08 edition
Posted October 10, 2008 at 03:07 PM by JG Mason
Section: Communications, Computers, Software / Applications, Gadgets / Other, Originals, Columns, Who's On Crack, Features
This is where we call out by names the actions and companies that seem odd, out of touch or just plain straight up smokin’ crack. Technology is an odd realm where PR speak doesn’t hold a lot of water if the 1s and 0s don’t line up. This week sees posturing, positioning and flat out insanity. Here is what caught my eye this week:
Ouch! We are all so excited about the Thunder and then we learn there are problems under the hood with the Bold. The Bold was so, well, bold.
Nice qwerty keys, swanky look, but trouble? We heard you guys blaming AT&T for the problems, now we hear the same from Orange in the UK? Uh-oh. Last week I talked about too many launches, too many names—seems I might not be the only one overwhelmed with it all, huh?
Plus there are rumors now that the RIM stock has halved in the past month that someone might pick you up on the cheap. The question quickly becomes: Moto and Microsoft who is doing more dope? Enough to kick in some money to get the dominant position in the US business market? Now that would be interesting
Well that didn’t take long. Just 6 months ago, I was whining about how makers haven’t stepped up and made some luscious touch screen phones. Now they have. In fact, they made too many to count. Samsung and LG are launching new ones every 17 seconds. I can’t keep up, can you? And I love this stuff.
So why is it boring? It is the experience, stupid. Yes, I am hooked on the Apple method like a crack baby to well, crack. Where is the fun, LG? Where is the sizzle, Samsung? Just slapping on a different input method really was not what I was asking for.
I was asking for a revolution and you brought me more of the same. Can’t someone play with the OS and bring up something fun? I want fun and you know the ladies just want to have fun.
That could almost be their slogan if it were not so embarrassing. Our reporting ace, Natesh Sood says 58% of UK businesses are still rocking the XP and only 4% are running Vista. Wow.
Instantly, I get why recent ads have Gates and Seinfeld rapping about shoes and not Vista. Pushing back support for downgrade media makes some sense when you’ve no confidence in your latest and supposedly greatest. “I am a PC until they stop supporting XP,” maybe that could be the slogan?
If you are sitting around the Google Lab saying, “what do people really need?” and you come back with Gmail Beer Goggles Protection, maybe we have an intervention. Consider this your intervention, Google. Really? Seriously? Math?
Oh, you Lab folks! Math is why I changed majors in college. Math is what got us into this bad mortgage mess. Hasn’t the public made it clear we can’t do math when sober? Seriously, my brain function maxes out picking the right Garanimals to dress my kids. Zebra goes with Zebra, right? Now a stopwatch and higher math that has me reaching for my iPod touch calculator. I’ve got enough stress without summoning the mental acuity to beat your math problems.
My absolute favorite for the week is Verizon’s new smartphone university classes. Now sure, the classes are just being held as a test in two stores, but, really, Verizon? Seriously? Are you up to this? OK, I can hear you, “Spill it, JG! Why does this make you think they are on the rock?”
Easy: They passed on the iPhone. Can anyone really take them seriously if they passed on the smartphone that changed smartphones? Can these chaps really know what they are talking about when the let the game changer go by without so much as a, “We need something better, STAT!” kind of attitude? No, they played the wait and see game and still don’t have something in their line up yet.
What I am saying is mighty “Can you hear me now” got schooled on the smartphone by AT&T. The irony is palpable.
Think I am on crack too? Let me know in the comments.
Gadgetell Review: Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2
Posted October 10, 2008 at 02:12 PM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Computers, Software / Applications, Gadgets / Other, Lifestyle, Miscellaneous, Imaging, Accessories, Reviews, Features
My first thoughts:Gadgetell Quick Review: Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 What is it?
Lightroom 2 is a program for Windows and Mac OS X designed to help organize, streamline, and develop your photos. It costs $99 for the upgrade from Lightroom 1 or $299 for first time buyers.
Pros:Easy to use thanks to clean and organized interface. Imports all of your files using your preexisting directory structure. Works with a wide variety of file formats.
Cons:Does not allow pixel editing. Requires another program for that task. Initial use can be frustrating and can cause loss of work.
Does it hit the mark?Yes. Lightroom 2 definitely lived up to all of my expectations. It’s easy to see that this program would be extremely popular with anyone working in the art or ad industry, or someone who does batch work with photos. The program allows for very controlled editing and is remarkably easy to use.
Installation was a breeze. Pop the disk in and just let it go. It only took about 2 minutes to complete on my computer. As soon as it finished installing, it asked if I would like to open the program and began to import all of my files over into the catalog quickly and cleanly.
Using Lightroom 2:I really liked the fact that Lightroom is organized on so many levels. You see your shots in a regular “panel” across the screen. You also see the “tree” drop down menu off to the right, listing all of your folders and sub-folders. Then, what I find really great, they have a filmstrip of thumbnails across the bottom of the screen that you can also quickly scroll through for easy access to a shot you’re searching for.
HP and MySpace team up: Better get rid of those risque shots on your site
Posted October 10, 2008 at 01:00 PM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Computers, Networking, Software / Applications, Imaging, Accessories, Peripherals, Displays, Printers / Scanners, Web, Downloads, Web 2.0, Web Apps, Web Browsers, Websites, Online Music/Video
HP and MySpace just announced that they’ve teamed up and the partnership will now be providing the ability to print on all user profiles on MySpace. Now, true, you could do this yourself before by going through steps of your own and saving things yourself and sending them to alternate programs to then print. But now, it’s just oh so much more simple.
Beginning in November, MySpace users will see a HP-branded button that says “Click to Print” all over the place, not just their photo album. It will be in their blog, comments, even the mail sections.
Plans are to extend this even further by selling personalized merchandise. The merchandise will have users’ photos on it. No details have been provided at this time as to exactly what kind of merchandise, but, expect the usual mugs, t-shirts, calendars, that sort of thing.
I can see this being a huge boon for the multitude of band sites on MySpace, and I’m sure they are loving this move. I’m wondering though, can someone just click on a site, and decide to buy a mug with someone’s photo on that they don’t even know? That would be kind of creepy. I mean, imagine, someone can hit your page, print out your photo, stick it on a mug with the words “my guy” or “my girl” or something. Ummm....ewwww. And you know some freak out there will do just that.
The new feature is set to kick in just in time for the holidays here in the US, as well as Canada, Australia and Western Europe. Get ready to start pressing “Click to Print” and again, you better get ready of any of those risque shots before they end up on someone’s t-shirt.
Via [yahootech]
BlackBerry Bold removed from sale for quality issues
Posted October 10, 2008 at 11:22 AM by Jodie Andrefski
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile
Orange had to suspend their sale of the Blackberry Bold, listing their reason as “software issues” in an internal memo to employees. It seems that AT&T wasn’t the only company having issues with this one. At least they chose to hold off and try to sort things out instead of rushing a release date.
In the meantime, RIM is attempting fix the situation. This came as a result of issues starting in the UK, where the Bold was pulled off the shelves. As a result, shipments in the US have been repeatedly delayed and it now looks like we know why.
From an internal Orange statement regarding the Bold:
“Following reports of software issues with the BlackBerry Bold handset across a variety of mobile operators, Orange has decided to act in the interest of its customers by suspending shipments of the device in the UK. We are currently awaiting feed back from RIM as to when an industry wide fix for these issues will be in place, and expect this suspension to be an interim measure. We apologize for any inconvenience this issue may cause you. BlackBerry/RIM are doing everything they can to resolve this issue and will be completing full testing and validation to ensure future handsets do not have any quality issues. This may take a couple of weeks so it’s up to us to do what’s best for our customers.”
Let’s hope they do or there just may be lots of unhappy Bold customers out there.
Via [mobiletechaddicts]
Hey Microsoft, Times Square is a PC too!
Posted October 10, 2008 at 10:45 AM by Doug Berger
Section: Computers, Software / Applications
We were strolling through New York’s Times Square last night, and captured a priceless Windows moment via camera phone. Apparently Times Square is a PC.
Update: We just got word of something that makes it even better. Directly in front of that Mr. Peanut ad was a HUGE Microsoft Windows ”I’m a PC” ad!
[Thanks, Jon]
Swimming upstream: 7 reasons the Google Android phone will fail
Posted October 10, 2008 at 09:55 AM by JG Mason
Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile, Originals, Web, Google
A couple of weeks have passed since the T-Mobile/Google event and my uneasy silence hasn’t dissipated. Sure, I am impressed that beloved Google is involved, the apps are cool and don’t even get me started about compass mode in maps. Very cool stuff. But it doesn’t matter. Here are the top 7 reasons Android will fail.
Android will become a default, but not a desired item. As more and more phones use the open source OS because that is the cool thing to do in today’s market, they will be many choices of devices with Android. More choice dilutes the brand and dilutes the experience.
2. The ghost of PalmWe’ve seen this from Palm. Go to Handango and look at all the apps. Apps alone don’t make an ecosystem. Passionate users do.
3. U-G-L-Y, you ain’t got no alibi.The G1 is not the ambassador Android needs. With all the images of the Google phone swimming around, the best HTC can do is a 3 year old looking model that is clunky, brickish (before Apple made bricks cool) and just meh. If the launch date were not so close, the conspiracy theorist in my would have thought they showed that phone only to surprise us at launch with the real one.
4. Will you upgrade to the G2?With so many choices coming on the Android platform, the upgrade path for consumers gets muddled. Instead of being bugged by each product refresh, every Android phone is a possible upgrade. Soon consumers will get tired/confused of the stream of new models and turn off. Anyone care to guess how many of those iPhone 3G owners also owned a first gen?
5. Too many choices?I was reading yesterday on how Apple was being too heavy handed on keeping out apps that duplicate the core functionality of the iPhone. Apps like email and browser are summarily tossed out. Folks were grumbling about this to no end. But, there is some logic to this (bring it on, haters) and here it is: keeping the core functionality under control means each user will have a similar experience. That means you can say, “the iPhone’s Safari browser works well.” Maybe not all love it, and there are some limitations, but the experience is consistent and becomes a feature.
The alternative would be “the G1 with Firefox is great” or “the G1 with Chrome lite is great” or “the G1 with IE Mini is great.” Each one slicing the experience up and making the user potentially confused.
6. BrandingWhile phone junkies like you and I might know who HTC is, does anyone else? Is HTC going to run plucky ads espousing the G1’s virtues? Or will it come from T-Mobile, just like every other phone they sling. One of the changes with the Apple offering is they controlled the marketing, phones from a company that isn’t the carrier you hate. It is a significant difference we shouldn’t lose sight of.
7. Google itselfA while back, I asked the question if Google was going to play favorites with its mobile OS and guide features to Android that it won’t offer for the iPhone. Seems they are not according to some new bits of news in the latest SDK build. Things like street view are apparently coming to the iPhone (though no mention of compass mode, where your phone orients its map to your direction and spins as you spin around).
Money is the