Good old Radio Shack just can't seem to keep its hands on internal memos. A little over a week ago, we were treated to a pair of leaked documents, slating an August 7th rollout for the LG Thrill 4G, and now another official looking missive has surfaced, pushing the release date back to August 21st. As per the document, customers will still be able to reserve their own 3D-enabled handset with the purchase of a $50 gift certificate before August 15th. Of course, we could still see this thrilling 4G phone pop up ahead of that date, perhaps from AT&T, but if you've already got a $50 gift certificate in hand, it looks like it's time for another round of the waiting game.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
Engadget's next reader meetup happens in NYC on August 25th!
Oh, hi! How are you? It's been so long! We know, we've been busy, but we're going to be in town soon. Very soon! In less than a month we'll be having a get-together for lots and lots (and lots) of our closest friends -- and yes, you're totally invited. We'll be hosting the event on the evening of August 25th and it takes place at Guastavino's, a top-shelf venue on 59th Street in New York City. It'll be an all-ages gig where you and your friends can try out some of the hottest tech you've read about here, debate with the editors about Windows Phone vs. Android vs. iOS vs. RIM vs. whatever, and maybe go home with one of the many, many great prizes we'll be giving away.
We'll have more posts with more details in the coming weeks as we get closer to the day in question, but if you're a member of the media who would like to attend, an exhibitor who wants to show something off to the fans, or a sponsor who wants to be a part of the insanity, please e-mail us at meetup at engadget dot com. Until then!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
WMPhones HTC Ignite and HTC Prime Surfaces in a Dutch Site
Are you fond of checking out phones that would be coming soon? If that is your thing then you have to know that there have been two HTC Windows Mobile Phones spotted, not in the US, but somewhere across Europe, as found on the Dutch phone website, The Phone House. Both the HTC Ignite and the HTC Prime have been spotted as “Coming Soon”, even having the iPhone 5 on the wait. There may be questions if these would even have Windows Phone 7 Classic, or a Mango update.
For specs, HTC Ignite runs on an 800 MHz processor with 512 MB RAM. There are no updates on internal storage yet, but it could be 4GB or 8GB internal with no slot for expansion. It has a standard 480×800-pixel, 3.7-inch touch screen, and a 5-megapixel camera with autofocus. The HTC Prime is the exact same model of the Ignite, except for the side-sliding full QWERTY keypad. Its camera, just like the Ignite, can also record video in 720p HD quality.
Source: WMPowerUser
Global Smartphones Sales Will Top 420 Million Devices in 2011
Sales of smartphones will exceed 420 million devices in 2011, accounting for nearly 28 percent of the entire global handset market, according to IMS Research, the leading independent provider of market research and consultancy to the global electronics industry. With the introduction of more affordable “entry-level” smartphones, IMS Research predicts that annual sales will surpass one billion devices by the end of 2016, accounting for one of every two mobile handsets sold.
“But despite the higher margins for smartphones, and the seemingly insatiable consumer appetite for converged devices, it is clear that not all OEMS are equally positioned to capitalize on this market trend,” says Josh Builta, analyst in IMS’ Mobile Technologies Group. “For instance, LG, despite being the third largest OEM in the world, has offered a fairly limited smartphone portfolio in recent years, a factor that resulted in the company reaching less than a three percent share of the total smartphone market in 2010.”
Nokia Interactive Rich Reading with the book "100th Day of School"
Nokia has collaborated with Sesame Street to create a new interactive book experience. The first book of it's kind is called 100th Day of School. (See video above). Elmo joins you for story time and listens along with your child as you read the book. Elmo can help your kids engage in the book by asking questions about each page and encouraging your kids to talk about the book. Research has shown that the more kids talk about the book during the reading experience, the better their vocabulary development.
Nuance Expands Self-Service Mobile Developer Program to Australia
Nuance Communications, Inc. today announced that its Nuance Mobile Developer Program is continuing its Asia-Pacific expansion to Australia, with the Dragon Mobile SDK’s language support for Australian English. The Nuance Mobile Developer Program gives mobile developers the power to voice-enable virtually any application for iOS and Android via the self-service website – allowing them to quickly and easily leverage the powerful dictation and voice search capabilities at the core of the successful Dragon Apps, and Nuance’s trusted Vocalizer text-to-speech (TTS).
Launched in the US, EMEA, China and now Australia, the Nuance Mobile Developer Program has signed more than 3,000 developers and has successfully launched dozens of voice-enabled apps globally for iOS and Android – some in just 30 days or less – including Siri, Price Check by Amazon, Ask for iPhone, Merriam-Webster, Dictionary.com, SpeechTrans, Yellow Pages and AirYell from Avantar, iTranslate from Sonico, Taskmind from Catalyst, CapnTrans from Keystone Technology, and many others.
U.S. Cellular Launches the Samsung Character with Touchscreen and QWERTY Keyboard
U.S. Cellular has launched the Samsung Character a stylish touchscreen device with a full sliding QWERTY keyboard to stay connected through texting and picture messaging and social networking. The phone also features three Main Menu screens, a music player with MicroSD card support, Bluetooth, voice recognition software, a 1.3 Megapixel camera and widget support.
Basic features:
2.8" QVGA Touchscreen
Full Slide-out QWERTY Keyboard
1.3 MP Camera
Built-in Browser
easyedge Capable
Voice Recognition Software
Bluetooth v2.1
Three Main Menu Screens
Text and Picture Messaging
Includes:
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Microsoft releases Mango SDK Beta update for developers
Windows Phone developers are getting one step closer to the fresh, fruity tang of Mango's RTM build with a newly released SDK update. The one month-in-the-making "Beta 2 Refresh" tweaks the previously issued Windows Phone SDK 7.1 and is available now for download, packing an improved profiler, the ability to lock application platform APIs, an emulator-based screen cap feature for your apps and a "peek at the Marketplace Test Kit." Microsoft's also thrown devs an extra bonus and will be pushing an OS update, Build 7712, to manually upgraded Mango phones. Sounds sweet, but it's too bad this hot number won't be ready in time for your app-building, beta hands.
[Thanks to everyone who sent this in.]
4G Wholesale Subscribers to Break 100 Million by 2016
In 2016, ABI Research forecasts that there will be 103 million 4G wholesale subscribers – subscribers managed through a MVNO that buys wholesale access from a mobile operator – for mobile operators, an increase from just 3.8 million in 2010. 4G wholesale business will help to further widen the mobile device market, encompassing new and existing mobile devices, as well as play an important role for mobile CE devices.
“The 4G wholesale market will be one of the main catalysts in the mobile wireless market in the future,” says Philip Solis, research director, mobile networks. “These forecasts are conservative, we believe, with mobile consumer electronics vendors’ adoption of this model being one factor that could greatly impact the potential of this market.”
Fujitsu Toshiba announces au IS12T, the world's first Mango phone (hands-on!)
Well, we can't say we didn't see this one coming. Fujitsu Toshiba mobile communications -- now there's a mouthful -- just unveiled the IS12T: Japan's first Windows Phone 7 device, and according to Microsoft prez Yasuyuki Higuchi, the world's first Mango handset. The sexy and IPX5 waterproof (!) 3.7-inch WVGA slate is powered by Qualcomm's MSM8655 CPU of undisclosed clock speed (which we've seen running at 1GHz in the Incredible 2 and Thunderbolt), and goes on sale in "September or beyond" on KDDI's au network. The pink gizmo packs a 13.2 megapixel camera with autofocus and has a plentiful 32GB of flash storage for housing whatever content you'd fancy toting around. The usual Bluetooth (2.1 + EDR) and WiFi (802.11b/g/n) suspects are also onboard. Interest piqued? Peruse the gallery our Engadget Japanese brethren have handily tossed our way.
Update: In addition to pink, it'll reportedly also come in a yellowish / greenish hue, as well as jet black. We're digging for more as we speak!
Fujitsu Toshiba IS12T
Fujitsu Toshiba IS12T hands-on
Get Ahead of the Class with AT&T Campus Guide
AT&T Campus Guide
It’s time to ditch the bulky directories and printed flyers. With AT&T Campus Guide, on-the-go students, faculty, alumni and staff can access campus information right on their smartphones. Community members can check out upcoming events, catch up on university sports scores and read course materials – all without skipping a beat in their busy schedules.
AT&T is the first carrier to offer this type of mobile platform, an affordable, leading-edge technology for higher education institutions. The AT&T Campus Guide app, which users can download for free, works with any service provider and on most major mobile operating systems. AT&T is working with DubMeNow, a pioneer in mobilizing higher education, to bring AT&T Campus Guide to schools all over the country.
Colleges and universities using AT&T Campus Guide can customize the app, adding school colors and banners to make it their own. And with its quick and easy set-up, AT&T Campus Guide is ready to go in a matter of weeks rather than months.
AT&T Campus Guide offers nine different features:
Courses: Students can connect with classmates and professors in real-time using AT&T Campus Guide, viewing grades, assignments, announcements and detailed class information.
Events: Wondering when the next big game is? Not sure when exams start? The events calendar on AT&T Campus Guide provides important dates and times for campus happenings.
Directory: Search and browse contact information and connect with other students and faculty, without paging through a campus phonebook.
Maps: Freshmen, visiting students and alumni will particularly appreciate campus maps and turn-by-turn directions between buildings.
Notifications: Timely notifications announce school cancellations and remind students about overdue library books, tuition payments and more.
News: Find the latest campus news, sports scores and Tweets – all in one place.
Friends: An always up-to-date and backed-up address book of all students’ classmates, friends and campus contacts. Any time students lose or replace their phones, they can just reinstall the AT&T Campus Guide app to their new phones and all of their contacts are restored.
My Card: Students can easily share their customizable contact information to keep in touch with their friends, classmates, potential employers, alumni and advisors..
Info: Looking for more information? Click on Info for miscellaneous details about campus.
“Students gravitate toward schools that have the best resources, the best technology,” said Chris Hill, Vice President, Advanced Mobility Solutions, AT&T Business Solutions. “They’re mobile and they’re looking for colleges and universities that are mobile too. AT&T Campus Guide supports community engagement and communication in a comprehensive and cost-effective manner.”
“More than 600 schools currently license our platform to connect, inform and engage their students and campus communities,” said Manoj Ramnani, CEO of DubMeNow. “With nearly 4,000 U.S. colleges and universities eager to catch up on mobile, the AT&T Campus Guide application gives campus leaders an effective way to draw students’ interest. Our mobile platform, which powers AT&T Campus Guide, offers advanced integration, configuration, management and administration features in a complete solution.”
AT&T will begin pre-selling AT&T Campus Guide on July 29th. Schools that participate in the pilot period (July 29th through September 29th) will receive the application free of charge until October 1st.
AT&T is dedicated to supporting education with products and services that help institutions improve productivity both in and out of the classroom. In addition, AT&T’s University Advantage Program provides tailored contracts and discounts for colleges and universities.
For more information on AT&T Campus Guide, visit: http://go-att.us/CampusGuide.
Samsung Galaxy S Infuse 4G Blazes its way to Rogers
Samsung Galaxy S Infuse 4G
Samsung Mobile Canada today announced the upcoming availability of the Samsung Galaxy S Infuse4G. The Infuse 4G features a massive 4.5″ Super AMOLED Plus screen and access to HSPA+ for download speeds of up to 21 megabits per second, delivering an unparalleled mobile experience.
“Movies, videos and Web surfing are brought to life on the Samsung Galaxy S Infuse 4G’s incredible Super AMOLED Plus screen. With this technology, colours are rich and bright, even while outdoors in sunlight,” said Paul Brannen, vice president of Samsung Mobile Canada. “The stunning screen, 1.2GHz processor, 4G access to the Internet and its sleek design make the Infuse 4G powerful and enjoyable to use.”
Running on the Android 2.3 platform, the device delivers a brilliant display using Samsung’s next-generation Super AMOLED Plus technology which features 50 percent more sub-pixels for better contrast. The result is the best display and picture quality with deeper, richer colour balance making every image more true-to-life than any other leading smartphone.
The premium Android smartphone also includes a rear-facing 8.0 megapixel camera/camcorder with auto-focus and flash that shoots HD video with incredible detail. A 1.3 megapixel front facing camera is perfect for self portraits or video chat.
Key Specifications
Android 2.3 platform
4G: HSPA+ 21 Mbps
8.99 mm thick
UMTS/HSPA, HSPA+ 850/1900/2100
GSM 850/900/1800/1900
CP : 312MHz, AP : 1.2GHz processor
4.5-inch Super AMOLED Plus screen
VOIP with Android application
8 megapixel camera with HD 720p video camera and 1.3 megapixel front facing camera
Virtual QWERTY keyboard Expandable memory up to 32GB with microSD card
Text/Picture and Video Messaging support
Full HTML browser with Adobe Flash 10.1 support
Expandable memory – up to 32GB
Swype text input
QuickOffice
TouchWizUI
The Infuse 4G is now exclusively available nation-wide from Rogers Communications for $149.99 on select three-year terms or $549.99 no term. To learn more about the Samsung Galaxy S Infuse 4G, please visit www.samsung.com.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
New 123people-Apps Enhance Mobile People Search
Mobile Internet is used more widely around the world today. Currently, over six million people worldwide are searching for friends, family members, and business associates on the leading people search engine 123people, using their mobile phone, smartphone, iPad, or PC tablet. In order to meet the growing needs of the mobile market, 123people has completely redesigned its existing smartphone applications.
The free people search engine mobile apps are available online with immediate effect for iPhones and Android phones in five different languages. The online search for telephone numbers, email addresses, social network profiles and more people related information is now more easily available for smartphone users than ever before.
Microsoft signs off on Windows Phone 'Mango' RTM build
We still don't have a launch date any more specific than "this fall," but Microsoft announced a fairly big milestone for Windows Phone 'Mango' today. It's just signed off on the Release to Manufacturing (or RTM) build of the operating system, which now leaves things in the hands of the handset makers and carriers, while Microsoft says that it will turn its focus to the update process. Still unsure what the update has in store? Our extensive preview is just as handy as ever.
InterDigital Files Complaint Against Nokia, Huawei and ZTE With Intl' Trade Commission
InterDigital, Inc. today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiaries InterDigital Communications, LLC, InterDigital Technology Corporation and IPR Licensing, Inc. (collectively, "InterDigital") have filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission ("ITC") against Nokia Corporation and Nokia Inc. (collectively, "Nokia"), Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. and FutureWei Technologies, Inc. d/b/a Huawei Technologies (USA) (collectively, "Huawei") and ZTE Corporation and ZTE (USA) Inc. (collectively, "ZTE" and together with Nokia and Huawei, "Respondents").
The complaint alleges that the Respondents have engaged in unfair trade practices by making for importation into the United States, importing, and selling after importation, certain 3G wireless devices, including WCDMA and cdma2000 mobile phones, USB sticks, mobile hotspots, and tablets, and components of such devices that infringe seven of InterDigital's U.S. patents.
Verizon's Blackberry Bold 9930 unveiled early thanks to website blunder
Oh boy, we don't envy the Verizon web admin who made this particular mis-click. If you go to VZW's sales page for the Blackberry 9650 and click on the "Explore Features" video, you get an unexpected treat: a walkthrough not of the 9650, but of the unreleased Bold 9930. The specs are familiar, like the 1.2GHz processor, 2.8-inch touchscreen and Blackberry 7 OS. But at least we now have it from the horse's mouth that the new Bold Touch is indeed coming to Verizon. We've stuck our own rip of the video after the break, as the original will likely disappear any second -- much like that poor web admin.
[Thanks everyone who sent this in]
Monday, July 25, 2011
A new BlackBerry to be unveiled tomorrow, or so Facebook would have us believe
What's made by Research in Motion and is "shiny, new, and social all over?" No one can say for sure, but according to BlackBerry's Facebook page, we're going to find out tomorrow. Might it be the Torch 2 come calling, newly acquired FCC badges in tow? Perhaps Waterloo's hinting at the Bold Touch, its phone of many flavors. Or, maybe it's something yet unseen that will blind all who perceive it with a corona of social networking awesomeness. Whatever BlackBerry's got in store for us, let's hope it's not just another phone with a Facebook button.
Qualcomm Acquires Gesture Recognition Assets from GestureTek
Qualcomm Incorporated today announced that it has acquired certain assets from GestureTek, a developer of gesture recognition technology. A leader in the gesture recognition field, GestureTek has more than 25 years of experience implementing gesture-based technologies in mobile devices, entertainment facilities, healthcare systems, retail locations, and public and private venues. The acquisition gives Qualcomm ownership of certain intellectual property assets related to gesture recognition, as well as key engineering resources. GestureTek is retaining other assets in continuation of its gesture-controlled public display and digital signage business.
“Applications processors are enabling a range of new ways for consumers to interface with their home entertainment and mobile devices,” said Steve Mollenkopf, executive vice president and group president, Qualcomm. “Our acquisition of key technology and assets from GestureTek will strengthen Qualcomm’s smartphone product portfolio and enable our customers to launch products with new and compelling user experiences.”
Voomote One turns your iPhone into a well organized universal remote
Ok, so the name isn't great, but the Voomote One is actually kinda neat. It's not the first universal remote adapter we've seen for the iPhone and, unlike the Surc IR case, you probably wouldn't want to leave this bulky add-on attached to your handset when not in use. But, the app does have some convenient features, like the ability to create custom layouts that can easily be switched based on the devices in a particular room. So you can setup a living room profile to control your big screen and cable box, and a separate bed room one for your more modest set and a stereo. You can also create command macros that fire up multiple devices with the tap of a single virtual button. The Voomote app is available for free in the app store, but the actual IR-blasting sleeve will set you back $99. Check out the gallery below and head on after the break for some PR.
Show full PR text
Zero1.tv Introduces the Future of Remote Controls, the VooMote
One for iPhone and iPod Touch
This new, sleek designed device transforms your iPhone and iPod touch into a
fully functioning universal remote
Berlin, Germany (July 25, 2011) – Zero1.tv, leading provider of user interfaces
for home entertainment solutions, is proud to announce its latest creation-
VooMote One. This device, when paired with the free app, effortlessly converts
your iPhone and/or iPod touch into an impressively smart universal remote
control, and offers additional features unlike any other on the market.
The VooMote One slides onto your iPhone with ease, while still allowing full
control of the iPhone itself. Once the device is connected and the app loaded, it
instantly transforms your iPhone into a fully functional universal remote for your
TVs, DVD players, stereo systems, consumer electronics and more, ultimately
eliminating the need to have several remotes to control your consumer
electronics.
What sets the VooMote One apart from the rest is its innovative customization
options, and easy setup. With VooMote One you can utilize the "One View"
feature, which allows the user to create personalized and multiple device remote
control layouts. Meaning you can easily lower the volume on the stereo while
pressing play on your favorite DVD in a matter of seconds. By also using the
"One Touch" feature you can create an entire chain of commands with a single
click. So with the press of one button you can turn on your TV, turn on your DVD
player, and hear all of the action on your surround sound speakers.
The VooMote One setup wizard only entails a few quick steps. Once setup is
complete you have the option to further organize your universal remote with the
"Room Control" feature. This groups all of your electronic devices by location,
such as living room, kitchen, etc. Also, the "Teach-In" feature is accessible
should the VooMote One need to "learn" some of your products, by simply
pointing the device at your original remote control.
The VooMote One automatically captures more than 30,000 infrared codes and
thousands of electronic devices. It recognizes 574 TV brands, 995 Top Box/DVR
brands, and 151 audio and CD brands. The VooMote One code library is also
constantly being update to ensure that virtually all IR (infrared) codes are
available.
VooMote One is also especially easy to set up, no PC necessary. All settings can
be adjusted using the software on your iPhone or iPod touch. The app itself also
automatically updates via iTunes to add the most up to date infrared codes.
"With the abundance, and variety of consumer electronics, we wanted to offer
consumers an incredibly simple and convenient means to control all of their
devices with just ONE remote stemming from a device they likely already have in
their pockets, said Alex Gruber, CEO, Zero1.tv. "Unlike our competitors,
VooMote One is the only like-product on the market right now that makes set up
effortless, reduces clutter, and streamlines the control of all of your devices with
your iPhone."
The VooMote One will be available on August 5th for $99 at www.zero1.tv and
www.BestBuy.com. Additional retailers to be announced soon. The VooMote
One app can also be downloaded for free at the iTunes® store.
For more information on Zero1.tv and its latest innovation, VooMote One, please
contact PR representative Kristen Bean at kristenbean@maxborgesagency.com
or 305-576-1171 ext. 123.
About Zero1.tv
Zero1.tv is a Berlin based company focused on user interfaces for home
entertainment solutions. The company's technological patents provide the
practical expertise to improve remote control and user interface experiences
unlike any other. Zero1.tv is the leading platform provider for smartphone-based
control solutions, with a mission to expand the access of multi-media content,
and enhance user experiences. The company recently developed and
manufactured VooMote One, a universal remote control solution for iPhone and
iPod touch
Qualcomm acquires gesture recognition IP from GestureTek, aims for Snapdragon integration
What's superior to a shiny new Snapdragon, blazing all sorts of benchmarking trails in your next tablet and / or smartphone? Why, a Snapdragon with a pinch of IP from GestureTek, of course! Qualcomm has today announced its intentions to acquire "certain assets" from GestureTek, a long-standing developer of gesture recognition technology. We've seen the aforementioned outfit touch the mobile (and not-so-mobile) realm before, but now it looks like it'll be more aggressively touching devices with Qualcomm silicon. It's a strange move, indeed, but it could be one that signals a shift in the way chip makers are looking out for themselves. OEMs have long tried to skin their Android devices in a way that'll breed loyalty to a brand (rather than an OS), but loyalty to a CPU? According to Qually (yeah, what of it?), the buy will give it access to "key engineering resources," and while GestureTek will maintain "other assets in continuation of its gesture-controlled public display and digital signage business," we suspect the consumer-facing aspects will soon have a new master. We're told that the tech will be woven into current and next-gen Snapdragon processors, but only time will tell what sort of seamless wizardry will result. Hope your digits are ready.
Show full PR text
Qualcomm Acquires Gesture Recognition Assets from GestureTek
SAN DIEGO – July 25, 2011 – Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) today announced that it has acquired certain assets from GestureTek, a developer of gesture recognition technology. A leader in the gesture recognition field, GestureTek has more than 25 years of experience implementing gesture-based technologies in mobile devices, entertainment facilities, healthcare systems, retail locations, and public and private venues. The acquisition gives Qualcomm ownership of certain intellectual property assets related to gesture recognition, as well as key engineering resources. GestureTek is retaining other assets in continuation of its gesture-controlled public display and digital signage business.
"Applications processors are enabling a range of new ways for consumers to interface with their home entertainment and mobile devices," said Steve Mollenkopf, executive vice president and group president, Qualcomm. "Our acquisition of key technology and assets from GestureTek will strengthen Qualcomm's smartphone product portfolio and enable our customers to launch products with new and compelling user experiences."
Gesture recognition technology will be integrated into Qualcomm's current and next-generation Snapdragon™ processors, giving OEMs the capability to produce smartphones, tablets and home entertainment devices with user interfaces based on natural human gestures.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Dual Boot Support Via Nook2Android for Nook Color
Since its launch as an E-Reader device Barnes & Noble’s Nook Color has become the ideal tool for modders and hackers around the world, transforming the device into an expensive tablets Android effect. Now the team more on XDA-Developers have made it even easier for you to enjoy both sides of the Color Nook allows dual booting between primary care Nook E-Reader Nook2Android OS and Android.
The software can download and install Nook2Android or buy a microSD card practice so it’s a bargain for owners to enjoy Nook Color sides.The now both support dual-boot again Nook2Android allows users to drag and drop files the variety that are available, including: CyanogenMod with optional Tablet optimization, and elegant MIUI ROM Android. You now have the option of booting the operating system Android corner or when you turn the color of Nook. Without removing the card Nook2Adroid to return to the operating system of values ??Nook. Great!
In The Next Few Weeks Android 3.2 Honycomb Update for Verizon Motorola Xoom
It seems that the owners of the Verizon Motorola Android Xoom will get the 3.2 update honeycomb within the next few weeks, according to a recent tweet of Motorola.
All we know from the tweet is the Verizon Motorola Xoom will start to get honeycomb 3.2 in the coming weeks, and Motorola are likely to distribute the update to the stage as they have done with WiFi only users version.US XOOM Motorola: Android 3.2, the phased deployment of Wi-Fi only. Verizon users can expect to launch in the coming weeks.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Kobo, Swindon Book Co. Ltd. Debut Amazing New Touch Screen eReader in Hong Kong for HK$1,390
Kobo eReader Touch Edition
Kobo announced today that Swindon Book Co. Ltd. in Hong Kong is rolling out the revolutionary new Kobo eReader Touch Edition effective immediately. The Kobo eReader Touch Edition is an advanced touch screen eReader that is setting new standards for size, comfort and functionality, while giving the eReading community a book-like read, only better.
Swindon Book Co. Ltd. is Hong Kong’s premier English language bookstore and has partnered with Kobo to bring eReading to their customers. The Kobo Wireless eReader launched in all nine Swindon retail locations and online in December 2010. The introduction of the new Kobo eReader Touch Edition provides customers with their choice of eReading experience and price level.
“The availability of the Kobo eReader Touch Edition in Swindon Book Company marks the first Chinese locations where consumers can see, try and buy our state-of-the-art device,” said Todd Humphrey, Executive Vice President of Business Development , Kobo. “Like Kobo, Swindon is passionate about reading and helping customers explore and embrace their reading preferences. We’re excited to expand Swindon’s eReading offerings for their customers.”
“Our partnership and the new Kobo eReader Touch Edition enables avid reading customers to engage in eReading on a whole new level,” said Chris Li, Swindon Book Co. Ltd. “Kobo’s new device is sure to attract attention and be a new favorite of the growing Hong Kong eReading community.”
As part of the local launch, Swindon will offer customers an interactive Kobo eReader Touch experience by hosting a Kobo booth in the eBooks and eLearning Resources area at the upcoming Hong Kong Book Fair 2011 (July 20 – 26).
Kobo eReader Touch Edition features include:
– An iconic, striking new design with Pearl 6″ E Ink screen
– Read for up to one month on a single charge
– Slimmer, lighter than the competition and the perfect size to fit in pocket, purse or backpack
– Easy-to-use and the ultimate in comfort with Kobo’s signature quilted back – read for hours without strain
– Infrared touch technology for fast page turns with a simple tap or swipe, long press highlights and look up, zoom and rotate
– A single home button that eliminates clutter so users can focus on reading
– Intuitive browsing – readers can navigate quickly through entire chapters or entire library
– Customizable – seven font styles and 25 font sizes, adjustable margins and line spacing
– Bookmark where you last left off or bookmark several places for reference
– Read across devices and pick up from the last page read with Kobo’s synched bookmark technology
– Read almost any format – supports the most content of any eReader
– Get started reading quickly with 15 free hand-picked book previews of the hottest new books
– Borrow and read eBooks from the local public library
– Out-of-the-box storage for over 1,000 eBooks; up to 30,000 with an expandable SD card
– Earn awards for time spent reading and discover reading stats with Kobo Reading Life
Friday, July 22, 2011
Raku-Raku PHONE Series Reaches 20 Million Unit Sales in Japan
NTT DOCOMO Raku Raku PHONE
NTT DOCOMO INC. announced it reached the milestone of 20 million Raku-Raku PHONE series handsets sold on July 18. The Raku-Raku PHONE series (raku means easy to use) is a lineup of mobile phones designed to be highly user-friendly and suitable for everyone. The series was first introduced in October 1999, with the P601es Raku-Raku PHONE I. DOCOMO has since released a total of 18 models and has seen rapid sales growth in Japan, resulting in the milestone achievement of 20 million units sold as of this month.
While the fundamental features of the Raku-Raku PHONE series have remained the same over the years—three one-touch command buttons; large, easy-to-read characters on displays; and large, easy-to-operate buttons—DOCOMO has added additional features to meet customer needs, such as Deco-mail™, which allows users to decorate mails with pictograms and pictures, and dust and water- proof designs. The latest model, the Raku-Raku PHONE Basic 3, adds a special button that, with a single push, connects users to a dedicated telephone support center. With such improvements, DOCOMO hopes to further increase the user-friendliness and functionality of this popular phone series.
To commemorate this milestone, DOCOMO will add a new color to the Raku-Raku PHONE 7 model series, “mint green.” It will be available in docomo shops in late August.
iOS 5 beta 4 released, we start the next jailbreak timer
Under eight hours. That was the time it took to jailbreak beta 3 of iOS 5, which dropped back on July 11th and was unleashed later that day. Now beta 4 is out and, well, our stopwatches are ticking. A new beta of iTunes has also been included, though looking through the change log there's nothing particularly amazing about this release. Among other minutia, the Twitter app will now prompt you if it's unable to identify your location before you exit it, MobileMe local contacts are deleted instead of being merged, and iCloud file names are now case sensitive. Yes, we can hear you CamelCase lovers cheering.
Interestingly, this is the first version of iOS5 that is said to be able to be applied OTA -- though that particular option comes with the warning that all photos will be deleted should you give it a try. We're guessing that "feature" will not be present in the final release candidate, but we could be wrong. Would certainly make for a fun Easter egg...
Update: We're actually having issues applying this on our many and myriad devices, and we're seeing others reporting the same. We'll keep trying, but let us know how you're getting on in comments.
Update 2: Looks like we got it. We had to go back to 4.3.4 and then we were able to move up to beta 4. Maybe that'll work for you. Maybe you'll be still stuck in the doldrums of beta 3. Either way, you're still okay by our book.
Did Google's Photovine sprout from Piictu?
"Plant a photo, watch it grow." Photovine's tagline is just as catchy as the concept behind its launch -- a mobile app-based picture sharing service that groups images together using common photo-driven themes. These groupings, called vines, let you connect with strangers while sharing photos of everyday items that you wouldn't otherwise have any interest in photographing. You can have a vine focused on Swingline staplers, or magazine covers, or bottle caps. But as clever as this concept may seem, it's difficult to ignore Piictu, which budded several months before the Google app. It's certainly not uncommon for duplicate services to sprout, all based on the same underlying concept. But Photovine doesn't stop there -- the app's design is also remarkably similar to Piictu, down to page layouts and even main category tabs. For Piictu's "Following" tab, Photovine has "Watching." Piictu's "Latest" section is matched with "Fresh," and Photovine didn't even bother searching for a synonym for "Popular," which you'll find in both apps. Jump past the break for a deeper look, along with statements from the makers of both apps.
We reached out to both Google and Piictu to discuss the striking similarities between their apps. Piictu co-founder Jon Slimak said that he only recently discovered Photovine, and initially felt flattered. In fact, it sounds like he still does. He also doesn't have any plans to pursue the issue with Google, explaining "we're confident in our product, and we're not focused on any of this. We're just heads down and finishing next iterations and future iterations." Slimak pointed out that since February his designer has been posting progress on Dribbble, a public platform for creative types to share their latest projects. It's possible that the Google designers got a little... inspiration here.
A Google spokesperson explained that the Photovine team has been working on its app for quite some time, saying "Photovine is a photo-sharing app built by a few folks at Slide, who conceived and started building the product late last year, long before Piictu existed." It's very likely that the original concept was fresh when Slide, a company acquired by Google last summer, began development. But it's equally unlikely that the app's designers had never seen early versions of Piictu, or the final app. Regardless, it doesn't sound like Piictu and Photovine have any interest in duking it out, Apple / Samsung style, so we expect both apps to move forward as planned. Photovine is currently in a "friends and family" testing phase, so our experience is limited to the photos and video that Google has posted. If you can't wait any longer to start sharing entirely random photos with an entirely random group of strangers, then allow us to direct your attention to Piictu. It's apparently good enough for Google, so it might as well be good enough for you, too.
[Thanks, Jason; image credit: @uxboy]
Spotify New Music Streaming Devices Arrives iTunes Store
Spotify announced this morning that the service will launch streaming music in the U.S. today, and while we are waiting for the announcement seems that Spotify application for the iPhone and iPod Touch is now available in U.S. iTunes store.
Spotify application for the iPhone and iPod Touch will enable millions of music tracks flow directly to their devices IOS, and the application has been available in Europe for a while, and came to the U.S. iTunes store . today.
Nokia N9 arrives at FCC, opened up to see where all the MeeGo comes from
That most heavenly hunk of MeeGo, the Nokia N9, has passed through our government's most holy of hallways, delivering full external and internal photos to show us what's happening at every level. If you had any doubt this will be a world phone, tests confirming quadband 2G and pentaband 3G (2100/1900/1700/900/850 MHz) should put those to rest, while 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi spread over 2.4 and 5GHz means it'll be quick to download the goods around the house. Models with 16 and 64GB are shown, though squint all we could we couldn't count the difference on the teardown pics, which you can enjoy for yourself in the gallery below.
Look closely on the internal photos and you'll note the petite SIM tray and a 1,450mAh battery that relies on a wired connector. It is, quite clearly, not meant for easy user accessibility. Appetite still not sated? The full user manual is also there, ready for your download. And just think, a few minutes ago you didn't have any good reading material for this weekend.
Nokia N9 at FCC
Nexus S Comes to AT&T
Google Nexus S
Since launching Nexus S with Samsung, T-Mobile and Sprint customers have enjoyed the pure Google experience, running the latest Android releases and Google mobile apps. Today Google announces Nexus S device optimized for AT&T, available in Best Buy stores this weekend.
Nexus S runs Android 2.3 and features a 4” Super AMOLED screen, a 1 GHz processor for showing 3D graphics, front and rear facing cameras and support for NFC. It also features the latest Google mobile apps, including Google Earth, Google Maps with Navigation, Google Talk with video chat, Google Voice and Voice Actions, as well as access to more than 250,000 apps in Android Market.
Nexus S for AT&T will be available in Best Buy stores starting July 24. For those of you who just can’t wait, it’s on pre-sale today in Best Buy stores.
Nokia's N5 makes Symbian-powered procession through the FCC
There's something bittersweet about watching a Symbian phone march through the FCC knowing that Nokia is slowly thinning the herd. This particular model, the N5, made its requisite Mr. Blurrycam debut last month and now we've got some details about what the glossy white exterior is hiding. You'll find Bluetooth and WiFi radios inside, which isn't surprising, as well as NFC for all the contactless purchasing your Finland-loving heart can handle. On the mobile broadband side of things, there's support for the 850MHz, 1700MHz, and 1900MHz bands, which means it'll work with either T-Mobile or AT&T. Besides price and release date, the big question on our minds is whether or not anyone will buy a Symbian phone knowing the platform is destined for extinction?
Thursday, July 21, 2011
T-Mobile makes HTC Wildfire S official, available August 3rd for $80
True to earlier reports, the HTC Wildfire S finally has a home at T-Mobile. The carrier-phone relationship was formalized today as the magenta-colored mobile provider announced its availability on August 3rd. The device -- code-named Marvel -- will be $80 with two-year commitment and after $50 mail-in rebate. It has all the amenities we expected, including Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), a 3.2-inch HVGA display, 512MB RAM, a Qualcomm MSM7227 600MHz CPU, and a 5 megapixel shooter. You'll be able to get the phone in white or black; the only other differences in the new version appear to be the Swype keyboard and the inclusion of AWS bands. If you desire a handset that'll ease the pain on the thin wallet in your pocket, you have only a week to wait.
Show full PR text
Today, T-Mobile announces the upcoming availability of the new HTC Wildfire S - a stylish and compact Android-powered handset built with simplicity in mind. The HTC Wildfire S, expected to become available on August 3 for $79.99 after a $50 mail-in-rebate with a two-year service agreement and qualifying Classic voice and data plan (plus taxes and fees), comes equipped with the user-friendly HTC Sense experience combined with Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) operating system.
Packaged in a stylish form-factor, including a 3.2-inch capacitive touch screen display, the HTC Wildfire S is perfect for browsing the Web, accessing turn-by-turn navigation, sending and receiving emails, and keeping up with family and friends via Facebook and Twitter. The new low-cost smartphone also offers essential smartphone features such as a 5-megapixel camera and video recorder and a virtual QWERTY keyboard with Swype for easy text input.
The HTC Wildfire S will be available in a white color finish at T-Mobile retails stores nationwide and online at http://www.t-mobile.com. The HTC Wildfire S will also be available in a black color finish exclusively at Walmart, Sam's Club and http://www.t-mobile.com.
AT&T 'confident' T-Mobile deal to close in Q1 2012
AT&T this morning offered up some earnings tidbits, and there's some good news in there for the iPhone-wielding mobile network. In its best-ever second quarter for smartphone sales, the company moved more than 5.6 million of the devices. The Former Mrs. Bell also revealed that it is "confident" that, much to the chagrin of Sprint and others, its planned purchase of T-Mobile is set to be completed by the first quarter of 2012. AT&T will be offering up more financial details in an earnings call later today, including, no doubt, the much-rumored plans for magenta carpeting in its global headquarters.
Update: The company didn't talk too much about its interior decorating plans, but it did insist that it is "look[ing] forward to working with the FCC," and while it still has "work to do, we remain confident that we can satisfy the FCC and DOJ." AT&T also happily pointed out support from governors of 26 states. The acquisition, it added, will offer "enormous efficiencies" and "is the surest and fastest way to address the unique network constraints and spectrum shortages affecting AT&T."
S-MM751RU Computer Speakers by Pioneer
Pioneer has been rocking our socks in the home theater and audio markets home for years. In fact, when I was little my father had a Pioneer stereo that I used to try to use scratching as Run DMC. Pioneer has introduced a new product is a set of computer speakers called S-MM751RU. Things look very cool too.They has a black angular design with red trim.
These satellites can be had for just $ 49 for the torque and the 2.1 system with sub you see in the photo sells for $ 129. The SAT has three conductors of the coil, USB connectivity, metal grilles and integrated controls. Compact, aimed at people who travel. The larger set has a subwoofer.
The sub has a power exceeding 10 W per satellite, 20W subwoofer. Uses Maxx Bass Sound with DSP dynamic bass. The speakers have a driver bit all the volume and other settings. Both the 2.0 and 2.1 systems are available now.
Consumers TRIUMPH over Costly Data Plans with New Smartphone from Virgin Mobile USA and Motorola
Motorola TRIUMPH
Virgin Mobile USA continues to expand its Android smartphone lineup with the introduction today of Motorola TRIUMPH, providing a new top-of-the-line smartphone option with the added flexibility of a no contract plan. The TRIUMPH, Motorola’s first smartphone available exclusively to Virgin Mobile USA customers, is available today at national major retailers and online at www.virginmobileusa.com for $299.99.
“As smartphone ownership continues to accelerate, we are thrilled to offer Virgin Mobile customers this exciting, compelling new handset from a device leader like Motorola,” said Mark Lederman, business line director, Virgin Mobile USA. “The Motorola TRIUMPH is a best in class smartphone and provides users with the freedom to enjoy unlimited data on Virgin Mobile, without overages or a contract.”
Motorola TRIUMPH allows users to rev up their smartphone experience with a superfast 1GHz processor, 4.1″ touchscreen, 5MP camera, front-facing VGA camera, 720p HD camcorder with HDMI output to allow for playback on HDTVs (requires HDMI cable sold separately).
“The prepaid segment is a key opportunity in the wireless industry,” said Jeff Miller, corporate vice president, Motorola Mobility. “With Motorola TRIUMPH, we are excited to offer Virgin Mobile customers a device which provides a powerful Android smartphone experience with no compromises.”
Additional features include:
Up to 32GB of expandable memory to power and store multimedia libraries
Access to corporate email, social media sites, like Facebook and Twitter and a full suite of Google services, like Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps, Google Talk and more
5 megapixel rear-facing camera and front-facing VGA camera for video chat
Android Market for access to more than 200,000 useful applications, widgets and games available for download to customize the experience
Motorola TRIUMPH also is the first handset to come preloaded with the Virgin Mobile Live 2.0 social networking music application used to access the Virgin Mobile branded music stream, hosted by DJ Abbey Braden. The app also provides Android users free access to live music performance videos and “check in” features at special events. All status updates made using the app will also sync with Facebook and Twitter.
As the first new smartphone available on the new Virgin Mobile Beyond Talk plan structure, Motorola TRIUMPH provides the greatest value for an Android plan in the marketplace. These new plans are effective for new customers today:
Beyond Talk Rate/Month
Messaging/
Data
Anytime
Minutes
$35
Unlimited
300
$45
Unlimited
1200
$55
Unlimited
Unlimited
Existing Beyond Talk Virgin Mobile customers as of July 19 can keep their current plan pricing as long as they don’t let their account expire, and they can upgrade to new devices including the Motorola TRIUMPH without incurring additional costs.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Nyko Zoom for Kinect Arrives in Stores August 23
You may remember us talking about the Nyko zoom for Kinecta last month. He broke cover at E3 and promises to make it easier to play your Xbox 360 Kinect in smaller rooms. Kinect zoom is a clip on the lens zoom lens on the system.The system on the user and allows the player to play with about four feet of space. By default, the user needs Kinect about eight feet from the sensors. I can tell you if it is closer than the minimum distance, the probability that things run smoothly are scarce.
We already knew that most of the details about the zoom Kinect this side of the release date. Nyko has announced that the zoom Kinect be launched August 23. The device will sell for $ 29.99 and should make many fans of the Kinect not use it much for the problems of precision in small spaces, very happy.
Tango brings video calling to desktop PCs -- giant baby head not included
Back when we first laid eyes on Tango, the startup was sticking strictly to mobile, serving up free video calls over 3G, 4G, and WiFi to both iOS and Android devices (with front-facing cameras, of course). Now the company's thinking big -- quite literally -- with the announcement that it plans to bring its video calling service to PCs sometime later this summer. As of now, it looks as if this will be a Windows-only affair, and will remain free of charge -- as before, you won't need to register to get your videophone on. We've yet to see Tango at work on the big screen, but from what we gather from the press stills, the desktop edition will bring a bit of the old Apple to your PC. Full PR after the break.
Show full PR text
TANGO ANNOUNCES ITS FREE VIDEO SERVICE ON THE PC
BRINGING THE MOBILE EXPERIENCE TO THE DESKTOP
Leading Video Communications Company Closes $42 Million Series B Financing
FORTUNE BRAINSTORM TECH – ASPEN, Colorado. – July 20, 2011 – Tango, the leader in mobile video communications, today announced that its free video calling service will be available for PCs later this summer.
This is the third major platform launch for the company in nine months and will accelerate its already massive growth. Currently, Tango has 18 million members in 190 countries using the service to connect with their family and friends over 3G, 4G, and Wi-Fi. The first public demo of Tango for the PC will happen at the FORTUNE Brainstorm Tech conference in Aspen, Colorado.
"We have an incredible opportunity ahead of us and we are growing at an unprecedented rate," said Uri Raz, cofounder and CEO of Tango. "There are 1.5 billion PCs in use worldwide and 95 percent of the world's computers run Windows. With this launch, we are well positioned to reach our goal of 100 million customers by this time next year."
People will be able to Tango between Windows PC, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPod touch, iPad, and hundreds of Android phones and tablets. The new PC product is mobile-centric with the same look and feel as Tango on the phone. It's simple to register. There is no log in or password, just type in your mobile number and you are done. Tango will automatically find people you know, and makes inviting friends and family a breeze.
"Introducing a free video communication service for a large number of mobile devices, along with a PC version, in under a year speaks to the dedication of our team of more than 50 engineers in the U.S. and China who continue to deliver products that our users demand," said Eric Setton, cofounder and CTO of Tango. "Our goal is to offer a video communications service that's available on as many devices and platforms as possible, with more to come in the following weeks."
Tango Raises $42 Million Series B Round
Tango is also announcing that it has closed $42 million in its Series B round of funding, which will enable the company to deliver faster on its product roadmap. The investment was led by Draper Fisher Jurvetson, the first investors in Skype, and a venture capital vehicle led by noted investors Len Blavatnik and Alex Zubillaga. These investors have a deep understanding of the communications space and how to build and maintain great consumer brands that appeal to a mass audience internationally. They will help Tango continue its trajectory as the leader in mobile video communications.
"Tango is exceptional not only because it marries a significant technological evolution with real market demand, but also because it is powered by the kind of authentic entrepreneurial drive that is required to succeed as a business," said Alex Zubillaga. "Uri and Eric have built Tango on a real-world vision of what it takes for a start-up to achieve its greatest goals – and the Tango team has the capability to get it done."
Tango has seen explosive growth since its launch on September 30, 2010, adding one million new people to the service every two weeks. Eighteen million people in 190 countries currently use Tango to make free mobile video calls wherever they are. Tango leads the mobile video calling industry, supporting hundreds of phones and tablets today and moving quickly to make the service available on all platforms.
Tango for the PC will be available as a free download later this summer www.tango.me.
Jabra DRIVE Gives Chance to Moms to Stay Connected With Both Hands on the Wheel
Jabra DRIVE
likes having to read an owner’s manual from front to back before setting up a new gadget. Enter the new Jabra DRIVE in-car speakerphone for moms on-the-go: Tear open package. No installation. Get connected. The easiest in-car speakerphone on the market to-date, the Jabra DRIVE oozes with style and hails from the company known for its growing portfolio of hands-free solutions and sound expertise. Both easy-to-use and intuitive, the Jabra DRIVE connects to two mobile devices at a time and requires no setup, allowing drivers and passengers to stay in touch with family and friends while on the road and in compliance with hands-free driving laws.
From running errands and carpooling to commuting to work and taking family road trips, the Jabra DRIVE transmits phone conversations with crystal clarity. The Jabra DRIVE also features A2DP technology, which allows mom to stream music from her smartphone or Bluetooth-enabled Mp3 player, listen to directions from her GPS applications and more. Whether it’s a phone call with dad, the latest hit song or directions to a soccer game, DRIVE transmits clear audio with ease.
“Our broad line of in-car speakerphones offers something for everyone and at every price point. The introduction of the Jabra DRIVE represents an affordable option for all types of uses – specifically, moms looking to keep their hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and ears tuned into family life,” said Anne Raaen Rasmussen, Senior Vice President, Mobile Division, GN Netcom, Inc.
The Jabra DRIVE also features a voice guidance system announces battery status and Bluetooth® connectivity, while large control buttons for volume and on/off make operation a cinch. With 20 hour of talk time and an impressive 30 days of standby time, the Jabra DRIVE is equipped with enough battery life to last through even the longest commute or road trip.
The Jabra DRIVE will be available in late July at Amazon.com or Best Buy and Best Buy Mobile stores and online at BestBuy.com/Mobile.
Key product specifications of the Jabra DRIVE include:
• Crystal clear sound with echo and noise cancellation (DSP)
• Multiuse – connects to 2 Bluetooth devices at the same time
• Stream music, podcasts and GPS directions
• Voice guidance announces battery level and Bluetooth connection status
• Automatic volume adjustment
• Auto-paring to mobile phone
• Dedicated control buttons
• Up to 20 hours of talk time and 30 days of standby time
• Bluetooth 3.0, including eSCO
• Dimensions – L104mm X W56mm X D18mm
• Weight – 3.38 ounces
• Includes a Micro USB cable, in-car charger, clip for visor and quick start manual