Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones Yesterday, the Motorola Droid X was officially unveiled by Verizon and Motorola at Verizon’s special press event. Ever since, all the talk has been about how great of a phone it is - with its 4.3 inch touch screen, 1GHz processor, pre-loaded apps, 8MP camera, etc. Unfortunately, Verizon said it will not receive Android 2.2 nor Adobe Flash 10.1 until the latter half of the summer. For Android enthusiasts, this comes as a great dismay because everyone in the Android community cannot wait until Android 2.2 is officially pushed out, especially to such a powerful phone. According to a leaked internal picture at Verizon, the Motorola Droid might actually receive the Android 2.2 OTA update before its successor. In fact, the Motorola Droid is slated for a late July update, while the Motorola Droid X is slated for a late August update. Since the Motorola Droid X is set to feature Motoblur, it will take a little bit longer to update the Droid X from Android 2.1 to Android 2.2. However, since the original Motorola Droid does not feature Motoblur, the update can happen sooner rather than later. Of course, we will just have to wait and see whether Verizon comes out with an official statement confirming the matter. Via [Phone Arena] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Audio, Accessories, Car Audio, Video, Accessories, Communications, Accessories, Cellphones, Smartphones While the Droid X news is still hot, Motorola figured they would announce their accessories for the Droid X ahead of launch in case customers want to know what will be out there for the Droid X. On the Motorola Shop site, there are two accessories that will be available presumably when the phone launches on July 15. The accessories include the Car Mount for Droid X and the Multimedia Station for Droid X; prices for both accessories are not yet known. The Car Mount automatically launches the dashboard app on the Droid X when connected, plays music through the car stereo, can access Internet Radio (such as Pandora), and Google Maps Navigation - all while keeping the phone charged. The Multimedia Station is a simple dock for your Droid X and allows you to display videos and photos on an HDTV assuming you have the necessary HDMI wire that isn’t included. In addition, it lets you play music and even display photos as a digital photo frame. The phone will charge while in the dock. None of these accessories are must have by any means, but they will certainly make your Droid X experience a little bit better. Check it out [Motorola Car Mount] and [Motorola Multimedia Station] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Email / IM, Smartphones  If you own an Android phone, chances are you have heard of the Swype - the popular text input software. If you haven’t, it is basically a program that allows you to swipe your finger across a virtual keyboard in order to input the desired text. If I wanted to type the word “Gadgetell” I would have to make sure I swiped across every letter in the word Gadgetell. The software takes into consideration that you would hit other letters unintentionally. While this sounds like a great technology, 90% of Swype is used on Android phones, meaning other smartphones can’t really appreciate it. Some of the big name manufacturers that employ Swype include Motorola, Samsung, and HTC. Just yesterday, it was announced that Swype would be pre-loaded onto the Droid X, but the main question on most people’s minds is whether Swype will ever be used on the iPhone.
One of the Swype engineers has already developed a program for the iPhone “in his spare time.” Just imagine how good of a program he could make if he actually focused on it. It seems the technology is in place and it is definitely possible to develop a program that would run on the iOS, but would Apple allow it? Chief Executive Mike McSherry states: “We would like to be on iPhone. It remains to be seen.”
Some iPhone users even carry an additional phone because typing on a touch screen phone is difficult after a while and they prefer Swype to the conventional method. It has already been proven that Swype is a faster and more accurate way to input text. It will be interesting to see whether Swype creates a fully functional app for the iPhone and whether Apple allows it. Read [Reuters] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones  According to BGR’s insider at Sprint, the HTC EVO 4G will receive a software update to improve performance in three different areas on June 28. Unfortunately for HTC EVO 4G users, the software update will not include the coveted Android 2.2 update. Instead, it includes:
- Improvements to Wi-Fi performance
- Exchange Active Sync improvements which include a fix to issue including new account set up, PIN policy usage, and Exchange Server 2010 Calendar Sync
- Addresses Social Networking Sync issue with Facebook application which can improve battery performance
At least the overall EVO 4G experience will be improved with this software update, even if it is not the official Android 2.2 update. Since the update was not confirmed by Sprint, we will have to wait until June 28 to see if it comes to fruition. Via [BGR] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers According to a leaked internal doc by Bell, the Samsung S8500 Wave will be launching in Canada on July 8. Some of the specs include a 3.3 inch WVGA AMOLED display, 5MP camera, 720p video caputre, 1GHz processor, Samsung’s native Bada OS, and TouchWiz 3.0. For some reason, the price, $299.95, remains the same for a 36 month contract, a 24 month contract, and a 12 month contract. Even contract free, it is still $299.95. As the contract time increases, usually the price decreases so I think the pricing is a little off. Employees at the physical retail stores will be receiving complete information about the Samsung Wave on June 28, so I’m sure the pricing will change by then. The phone seems to be pretty solid just looking at the specs, it should be met with success for Bell in Canada. Via [BGR] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Accessories, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile  So you’ve finally got a hold of the hottest phone: the iPhone 4. All the apps, multi-tasking, and shiny good looks are all yours - but you’re not done yet. Here are some tips on what you’ll need to get that might not have hit you at first. Rest assured, the gadget accessory market is at full steam to get you all the little things we didn’t think about. .
Protect it. If 2 sides of glass don’t make you nervous, I don’t know what will. Word on the street is iPhone 5 will have screens derived from egg shells, so let’s be thankful this is just glass.. Apple can call this glass the toughest thing this side of a diamond, it will still scratch up. So what will you cover it with? 
Our sister site Appletell did a great job of showing off some cases here and here. Personally, I hate cases. They seem a rude insult to the team of engineers who worked for months to make the gadget as small as it is. Thin, in my book, is in.
So, I tend to prefer protectors like those from ZAGG, the Invisible Shield. Using stuff originally designed to protect the leading edge of helicopter blades, these thin, clear sheets of plastic do a bang-up job of keeping scratches at bay. They don’t do anything for drop protection, but it does enough for me. If that’s not enough for you, maybe you need something like this Ballistic Case, shown above. This thing is lined with both inner and outer shock protection layers. Talk about bulky, but if your line of work or level of clumsyness says your phone takes frequent swan dives, then this is your case. Check it out here. Otterbox also makes a winner of a tough case in the Defender for iPhone 4. Back up protection So maybe a ZAGG skin isn’t going to save my phone from a fall, but what about a back up? Can I keep my phone svelte but still not have to shell out major cash for a replacement? Yes, you can via companies like Squaretrade. They will sell you insurance for $99 that covers against “drops, spills and normal use failures for 2 years. There is a $50 deductible. It’s worth some thought. Power We’ve covered cases but not power. What about battery cases that were so prevalent for the iPhone 3G/3GS. Will iPhone’s 4 battery power be enough? Or will the iPhone 4 fit into cases designed for 3G? The answer is not really. The angle of the connector seems to be all wrong. The new iPhone 4 seems to want to be angled butt-in to be able to slide onto the connector. Looks like you’ll need a new Mophie or Engergizer charging case. Holders Uncased, the iPhone 4 is shorter in length across than its predecessors. That means the car holder I have won’t fit the naked iPhone 4 - it slides right on through. Users with cases, probably won’t notice too big a difference. These are some of the thing I’ve run into that I really didn’t give that much thought to before now. What else are you finding that needs changing? Let us know in the comments. Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Web, Websites Only yesterday we reported that it was likely T-Mobile would launch its own version of the Samsung Galaxy S in the form of the Samsung Vibrant. Today, T-Mobile launched a site aptly named T-Mobileclue.com which is a site designed to share big news T-Mobile has planned. Basically, it is a puzzle that will reveal clues as time goes on but so far it is easy to make out an Uncle Sam (Sam), a sun (sun), and a letter ‘g’ giving us the first clue - Samsung. The next line is a Viking minus a King, meaning just ‘Vi’ and the third line hasn’t been completely revealed yet, but TmoNews found out it’s a bee (B), the letter ‘r’, and an ant (ant) meaning “vibrant.” Now that we know the name of the next T-Mobile phone, all we need to do now is wait until the Samsung event next Tuesday to find out official specs, release date, and pricing information. Update: The puzzle has completed itself and it does, in fact, reveal the phrase Samsung Vibrant. The message on the right says to return when the countdown hits zero “for more exciting news.” Read [T-Mobileclue] Via [TmoNews] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile 
Pocket-able used to be a benchmark for cell phones. Today, we are inundated with phones held to “barely pocketable”. Isn’t tech supposed to get smaller and smaller? Are we not supposed to be using tiny phones like Zoolander by now? The latest big entries in the Android market are big. These big phones are pushed to their size by a desire for big screens for video. The HTC EVO and the Motorola Droid X feature screens that are 4.3” (measured diagonally, like a TV) while the new iPhone remains at 3.5”. The result is something, for many, that is uncomfortable to keep in a pocket or hold up to your face. While these phones tout HDMI out ports, the extra size helps with surfing the net as well. Here, these speedy Android phones hope to be seen as an inbetween - not as small as a typical smartphone but not as bulky as say an iPad. It’s a trick they seem to be pulling off. Only, some folks are finding the screen size a major turn off. @sergeim105 “Know the droid x is coming but it just seems way too big. “
@iluvsmallcaps “Motorola Droid X.. I want you, but I don’t know if you’re too big for me :’(”
@algria21 “Ok…that evo screen is way too big. I couldn’t even get my hand around the whole phone. And to think, I almost debated on the Droid x”
@mattbanks “Wow, the Droid X is entirely too big.”
@jsteelephotos “I can’t be the only one who thinks the Droid X is just too big for a phone. I don’t want something I can club seals with in my pocket.” Droid Does clubbing seals? That one’s fantastic. Maybe the large screens will just be a passing fad, either that or we’re headed for phones that are the size of their 1980s counterparts. Ack! Read: [Skattertech] Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Computers, Laptops, Features, Originals  When you have to send your laptop in for repairs it’s never fun. Shipping it alone can be nerve wracking and with good reason. I had to send my 6 week old laptop into Toshiba last week because of a hard drive failure (It happens, even to brand new systems!). Toshiba’s tech support was stellar. I got through right away with no hold time and to a rep that spoke and understood English (doesn’t always happen as anyone who has had to call a tech support or customer service line knows). They sent me a box and prepaid shipping label right away and off it went. I got a notice on Monday that it had been shipped back to me and would be delivered today. Hurray!
Well last night I was dodging raindrops as I made my way home from the CEA Line Show here in New York City when I saw a large box sitting on my steps. I hurried up the walkway and to my horror it was my laptop. Yes, UPS left my laptop sitting on my steps in the rain. Did I mention this is New York City? I had been gone all day so it had probably been sitting there for awhile in first 90 degree heat and then rainshowers. It’s amazing it didn’t get stolen! As I went to pick it up, thunder rumbling and lightning flashing, I noticed a large hole punched into the top. I was livid! Just as I got inside a downpour started so I was lucky I got there when I did. When I opened the package the laptop looked fine. I booted it up and it ran through the Windows 7 setup just fine. What a relief-but then there was a pop up: “Warning! A problem has been detected with the cooling system. Turn off your system immediately and return it for service.” Trying not to lose what’s left of my mind I called Toshiba and got a great tech. He told me to reset the BIOS. I did and the error disappeared and the computer has been functioning normally ever since. Thank goodness! While I was on the phone I told the tech about the delivery and he said Toshiba never allows packages to be delivered without a signature. He took my info and we hung up. I then called UPS who claimed they weren’t required to get a signature but the rep admitted leaving a laptop on someone’s steps isn’t very smart. I don’t know who is responsible for this FAIL (I am leaning toward UPS-they once delivered an expensive cell phone I’d ordered by leaving the package on my garbage can!) but the bottom line is, if you’re expecting an expensive delivery like a laptop, stay home! Full Story » | Written by Sue Walsh for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Business News, Computers, Software / Applications For Microsoft, the reception of Windows 7 couldn’t have been much better. Since it’s relatively brief existence, Windows 7 has sold 150 million licenses meaning 7 copies of Windows 7 sells every second. Talk about a coincidental number for the fastest selling OS in history. Nearly 75% of companies are looking into Windows 7 or are already using the flagship OS of Microsoft. Just as a side note about Windows 7, Microsoft will be pushing the new beta versions of Windows Messenger, Photo Gallery, Movie Maker and Sync starting tomorrow. Overall it has been a successful adventure for Windows 7 thus far, and I’m sure it will continue to be used and licensed. Via [Windows Steam Blog] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, VoIP, Web, Web Apps 
As the World Cup begins to really heat up, Skype decided to offer a special promotion to all the dedicated fans around the world who use Skype. Basically, for a month, Skype users will be able to communicate to one another in any country participating in the World Cup. Some countries will only allow 60 minutes of free talk, 120 minutes of free talk, or unlimited minutes of talking. As a special bonus for American Skype users who are football (soccer) fans, they will be able to make free and unlimited calls to not only landlines, but cell phones as well. After the month is over, normal rates will apply. It seems Skype hopes the promotion will raise awareness about the Skype service as well as promoting some healthy competition between competing countries. Check out the list below for a complete list of countries that contain free minutes. Read [Skype] 60 minutes free calls to landlines in Algeria for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Argentina for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Australia for a month 400 minutes free calls to landlines in Brazil for a month 60 minutes free calls to landlines in Cameroon for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Chile for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Denmark for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in France for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Germany for a month 60 minutes free calls to landlines in Ghana for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Greece for a month 60 minutes free calls to landlines and mobiles in Honduras Unlimited free calls to landlines in Italy for a month 60 minutes free calls to landlines and mobiles in Japan for a month 120 minutes free calls to landlines in Mexico for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in the Netherlands for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in New Zealand for a month 120 minutes free calls to landlines in Nigeria for a month 60 minutes free calls to landlines in Paraguay for a month 60 minutes free calls to landlines in Serbia for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Portugal for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Slovakia for a month 120 minutes free calls to landlines in Slovenia for a month 120 minutes free calls to landlines in South Africa for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in South Korea for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in Spain for a month 120 minutes free calls to landlines in Switzerland for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines in the UK for a month 60 minutes free calls to landlines in Uruguay for a month Unlimited free calls to landlines and mobiles in the USA for a month Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Web, Web Browsers 
In an ongoing browser war, Internet Explorer has long been considered unfit by the likes of Mozilla and Google. But in a new HTML5 speed test of the new IE 9 developer preview by Download Squad, the browser shows promise.  I believe that the video speaks for itself. Microsoft has managed to pack in a hardware accelerator that can not only beat Chrome, but make it look downright sluggish. I’m not going to jump to any conclusions, but with the new redesign, faster core, and more to come, Internet Explorer might become a browser to take Firefox and Chrome head-on. Especially if Steve Jobs gets his way and the web turns to HTML5 as a replacement for flash. Read [Download Squad] Full Story » | Written by Hunter Clarke for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Web, Web Browsers A crash proof Firefox has finally arrived! For those of you who haven’t converted over to the Chrome gods yet, there is something to smile about in the wonderful world of internet browsers. As for me, I’m all about the simplicity when it comes to web browsing. Adobe Flash, Apple Quicktime and Microsoft Silverlight plug-ins will all be seeing crash protection action from Firefox 3.6.4. To be honest, I’ve only come across severe crashing problems when I was typing up long-winded messages on Facebook. Here’s hoping that 3.6.4 will maybe solve that issue as well. Anyways, Here’s a list of some of the other new features to the new crash protection version of Firefox.
It seems like this is a win win situation for Firefox users out there. The new version looks like it will shut down and open up faster than previous versions. Via [Downloadsquad] Full Story » | Written by Tarun Kunwar for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, VoIP  Ooma has introduced what they are calling a free VOIP service. It does require the purchase of the $250 Oomo Telo. You can use your own phone in it or purchase their $50 handset. The service itself is not technically free as you are still required to pay your areas taxes and fees, which they say average about $4 a month. The device is sleek and good looking and it does offer some handy features such as being able to pair your cell phone with it via Bluetooth so you can answer your calls on your home phone. The service includes enhanced 911, voicemail, caller ID and the ability to keep your home phone number-for a $40 fee. Calls within the U.S. are free, while International calls vary from 25 cents a minute (Pakistan) to 1.4 cents a minute (Canada). For $10 a month their Premier service offers a second line, three way calling, Google Voice compatibility, enhanced voicemail, call forwarding, and the aformentioned ability to pair your cell phone with the Ooma device. If you’re not happy with Vonage it might be worth looking into.
Read [Oooma] Full Story » | Written by Sue Walsh for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Audio, Headphones  When it comes to headphones, finding a good pair for less than a hundred or so can be really difficult. Let alone if you have tendencies to lean toward the audiophile side of things, where even then the headphones don’t usually perform all that well. Etymotic is hoping to help out those who want really accurate headphones without going over that $100 price point.
The earphone company has announced it’s newest earphones, the MC series. The series holds the MC-3, which includes three-button control for iOS devices and a microphone, and the MC-5 which is just a standard set of earphones. Etymotic says that the MC series is more accurate to how music sounds when it is produced thanks to it’s ACCU-Chamber Acoustic Control technology, which is extremely complicated to explain. Having listened to the MC-5 at the show, they are surprisingly accurate, and manage to equal out the highs and lows in music with the mid-range of the equalizer. The complete lack of bass booster that most other headphones seem to use is refreshing if you care about music being accurate and balanced the way the musicians wanted it. The MC series runs at $99 for the MC-3, and $79 for the MC-5. At that price, they run up against Apple’s In-Ear Headphones, and Monster Jamz, both of which have heavier bass than the MC series. There are others in the same price category, as well, but not many that will have the same accuracy as the MC series. Of course, headphones without heavy bass aren’t for everyone, which could cause some problems for Etymotic. Read [Etymotic (PDF link)] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
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