Microsoft working on Bing app for Android and more

Microsoft working on Bing app for Android and more

In This Issue...


Microsoft working on Bing app for Android

Section: Communications, Smartphones, Mobile, Web, Web Apps, Websites

Microsoft working on Bing app for Android

It looks like Android users may soon have another option to consider in terms of a search app—Bing. The news is coming by way of the recent Bing Search Summit that took place in San Francisco and although nothing was officially announced, it was confirmed to having been worked on. In other words, plans may still change however as of now it looks like Android users will have a Bing app sooner as opposed to later.

With that, I can already imagine the Microsoft haters grumbling. And despite the fact that it would likely not replace Google on my phone for day to day use I am happy to hear this news for two reasons. The first being that competition is generally a good thing. And the second being that I have used the Bing app on an iPhone and its actually really good. If nothing else it serves well as an additional source for information.

Plus as a side note, per Erik Jorgensen, a company motto in regards to mobile is; “Type less. Do more.” Sounds good to me.

Read [CNET]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



Colorware now coloring the iPhone 4

Section: Apple, Communications, Smartphones, Mobile

Colorware now coloring the iPhone 4

Those looking for a uniquely colored iPhone, or perhaps those who want white and cannot wait any longer are in luck. Well, in luck assuming you don’t mind ponying up some extra hard earned cash.

Colorware is now coloring the iPhone 4. And that means you can now have a wide variety of colors applied to your existing (or soon to be purchased) iPhone. Color options include a variety of 21 solid colors, 21 metallic colors and 4 pearl colors. Additionally, you can choose between a gloss or soft touch finish, though those who choose the soft touch finish will not be able to go with any of those four pearl colors. And just in case those previously mentioned colors are not what you were looking for—you can also go custom—for an extra price.

Otherwise, there are paint options for the frame, the back, front button, SIM card tray and even the earbuds. The pricing comes as follows, $250 for the phone and $25 extra for the earbuds. And with that, it looks like its currently about a 3 week turnaround (from when they receive your device) to when it will ship back. Sounds like a long time to be without your phone, but then again it will be one-of-a-kind when it returns. Could be worth waiting for.

Read [Colorware]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »




Sirius XM app gets updated for iOS4, now with background playback & reduced buffering

Section: Apple, Audio, Portable Audio, Communications, Smartphones

Sirius XM app gets updated for iOS4, now with background playback &reduced buffering Sirius XM have recently rolled out the latest update for their Sirius XM Premium Online app for the iPhone and iPod touch. The app has been brought up to version 1.3.3 and perhaps more important then the version number is the new features and support.

This one will be good news for those running iOS 4 as the app is now capable of running in the background. In addition the stream should be better over a cellular connection, which according to the change log comes as “reduced buffering while on cellular.” Either way, less buffering should be welcomed for anyone that may have been having issues.

Other changes and additions in version 1.3.3 include the ability to organize your favorites, some new options in settings and the standards including “bug fixes and stability improvements.”

All in all it appears to be a welcomed update. In the end though, this one still required a subscription fee to actually use it which will set you back anywhere from $10 to $20 depending on the plan you choose. But on the positive side, the app does offer access to over 120 channels of content.

Download [Sirius XM Premium Online (App Store link)]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



iPhone 4: what’s working for me - Gadgetell hands on

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile

ideal case iPhone 4 thin plastic case

Apple continues to get hammered by the mainstream media and Consumer Reports.  Problems with reception and proximity sensors is prompting some to call for a recall.  Coming up on my second week now with the iPhone 4, I thought I’d share the problems and solutions I’ve found.  Here is what is working for me.

Reception

This is a real issue.  Apparently having sweaty hands is not serving me well (because it’s such an asset in other facets of life).  I can replicate this on the dozens of iPhone 4s I’ve held; it’s like I’ve found my super power - sucking cell signal from iPhone 4.

A thin plastic case, the one shown above, seems to work for me.  The case is thin enough that it doesn’t detract from the style of the device yet provides enough separation that I can’t draw out all the cell’s signal (in most cases).  In my home, where I could easily drop to no signal sans case, with case I can’t get below 3 bars.  Apple says the bars don’t mean what you think they mean but I’ve not lost a call with the case.  Not so without one.

For the screen, I’ve installed a ZAGG Invisible Shield protector.  They’ve done the job for me for years at this point and have earned my trust.

Proximity Sensor

Honestly more frustrating than the lost signal for me.  This problem cause my cheek to initiate FaceTime with everyone I talked to.  This seems due to a faulty proximity sensor setting.  Instead of the screen turning off controls when brought to my face, it went active allowing my cheek to select different options, even ending calls.  I suspect a good number of supposedly dropped calls are actually unrealized proximity sensor issues.

Today, this is not an issue for me.  The solution was to reset Network Settings.  Simply go to Settings>Reset>Reset Network Settings.  Yes, you’ll need to reenter some info on WiFi networks and the like but in exchange for solving the cheek-dialing, I’ll take it.

As I said, this issue is a whole lot worse than the signal problem for me.  Having a phone seeming do random things like dial, launch apps, or other while you are on a call is embarrassing and is indicative of a cheap toy.  Shame on Apple.

Recall?

Personally, I doubt we’ll see a recall from Apple.  Heck, at this point I am not sure we’ll see admission of a problem and an apology.  What I do think we’ll see is distribution of a free modified slim bumper to protect the external antenna.  It allows Apple to not return dollars to folks who’ve already purchased bumpers and justify it’s price at the same time.  These small modified slim bumpers will likely appeases the masses and won’t detract from the style of the device.

Got an issue I didn’t address here?  Let us know in the comments.

Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



eBay sued for $3.8 billion

Section: Web, Websites

Ebay sued

Could this be the end for eBay? With suffering traffic and competing sites like Craigslist stealing all of its thunder, eBay received some more bad news. XPRT Ventures LLC, a Connecticut based company, has filed a complaint claiming eBay infringed on multiple patents to make payment systems like Paypal Pay Later and Paypal Buyer Credit. The damages XPRT is demanding are obviously a big problem for eBay.

Let’s just put it in perspective. eBay did a net revenue (not profit) of $2.9 billion last year. And the company is worth $8.73 billion total. eBay better have some good lawyers, or this could get ugly fast.

Read [Reuters] Image courtesy of flickr.

Full Story » | Written by Hunter Clarke for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



T-Mobile to roll out HSPA+ in 19 additional markets on July 21

Section: Business News, Communications, Cellphones, Mobile

T-Mobile Logo

As of now, T-Mobile has introduced HSPA+ 3.5G data speeds to 25 different markets.  You know, the high speed mobile network that has ridiculous theoretical speeds.  Starting July 21, an additional 19 markets will boast HSPA+ 3.5G speeds. 

The follow cities are all expected to receive the T-Mobile Upgrade:

Austin, TX 
Baltimore, MD 
Birmingham, AL 
Cincinnati, OH 
Cleveland, OH 
Columbus, OH 
El Paso, TX 
Ft. Worth, TX 
Hawaii, HI 
Indianapolis, IL 
Jacksonville, FL 
Kansas City, MO 
Louisville, TN 
Milwaukee, WI 
Minneapolis, MN 
Portland, OR 
San Antonio, TX 
Washington, D.C. 
Wichita, KS

In addition, T-Mobile’s new webConnect Rocket 2.0 USB data stick with its unique swivel design is set to launch on the same day.  T-Mobile is also said to be offering a Dell Inspiron Mini 10 netbook which operates on the HSPA+ network, however, it will only launch in the 44 markets that boast the HSPA+ network.  Lastly, T-Mobile plans on finishing the complete roll out to 100 major cities by the end of the year. 

Via [BGR]

Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



T-Mobile to offer the Motorola Charm for free on family plans?

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones

Motorola Charm Family Plan promotion

Last we heard, the Motorola Charm is supposed to be a part of a back-to-school promotion where it will be available for free.  However, Engadget Mobile secured a picture of a T-Mobile promotion where the Motorola Charm will be available for free with a qualifying family plan.  In addition to the Motorola Charm, the Samsung Gravity 3, the Samsung :), and presumably the Samsung Gravity T are also included in this promotion. 

Even though the Charm comes with low-end specs, it’s still an Android smartphone and it’s hard to argue with a price of $0.  No word on how much it would cost otherwise, but the pricing rumor we heard places the Charm at $75.  Since we heard two rumors claiming the Charm will be available for $0, I’m sure at least one of them will pan out.  Hopefully we will hear more official news shortly from T-Mobile. 

Via [Engadget Mobile]

Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



Intel boasts best quarter ever

Section: Computers, Hardware

Intel Best Quarter Ever Intel has taken over the processing world. In fact, I would call it just short of a monopoly. With just about every netbook, desktop computer, and now phone powered by Intel processors, it is no wonder why Intel has had its best quarter ever.

With it’s overall revenue just under $11 billion, the company saw a net income of $2.9 billion. Say what you will about this recession, but Intel sure is not feeling it. The giant is seeing growth that can only be explained as a technological boom.

With so many new launches so far this year, more hype is surrounding what used to be a niche of geeks and computer science majors. Now we are finally seeing the true mainstream adoption of all sorts of gadgets to better improve our work, social interactions, and lives. Of course, the question on everyone’s mind is, can they keep the momentum? A selling frenzy like this can only last for so long before demand drops. But I think Intel will hold on. There seems to be no end to the amount of devices that will be pumped out before the end of this year, which means Intel’s numbers should only look up.

Read [Intel] Via [Mashable]

Full Story » | Written by Hunter Clarke for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



Verizon: Want a 32GB microSD card with that Motorola Droid X?

Section: Communications, Accessories, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones

SanDisk 32GB microSD

In case you have A LOT of media such as music and videos that you want to put on your smartphone, then maybe a 32GB microSD card is right for you.  These microSD cards aren’t very common because of its rather expensive price tag - $150.  But in case you really want a 32GB microSD card to accompany your brand new Motorola Droid X, Verizon is offering the SanDisk 32GB microSD card for $100 with every Motorola Droid X purchase.  The Motorola Droid X comes with 24GB of memory onboard, but it can be expandable all the way to 40GB if you do use the 32GB microSD card.

Via [PhoneScoop]

Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



Velocity Micro announces three new Android eReaders

Section: Gadgets / Other, ebooks, Household, Lifestyle

Velocity Micro Cruz eReader

Velocity Micro announced today the Cruz lineup, which features three different Android eReaders.  One of the main words repeated over and over again in the press release is “affordable” and for good reason.  Prices in the Cruz lineup ranges from $149 to $299.  The Cruz Reader is the standard eReader with a touch screen, multimedia features, and a sleek design.  The Cruz StoryPad is touted for children because of its intuitive user interface, interactive content, and simplistic design.  Rounding out the Cruz lineup is the high-end Cruz Tablet, which is the same as the Cruz Reader, but offers more storage space and a multi-touch screen. 

The 7 inch Cruz Reader will be on sale for $199 and it comes with the features listed below:

  Crystal clear 4:3 ratio, 800x600 full color touch screen display – ideal for viewing ebooks and magazines, plus web pages and movies
  Google Android Operating System
  802.11b/g wifi and full Web browser support
  High res video and high quality audio playback with no proprietary content restrictions
  Built-in Dictionary, Notepad, Calendar, Alarm Clock, Contacts, Games, and other useful apps
  Built in accelerometer, tilt activated
  Enough built in storage for hundreds of books
  USB and SD card slot for upgradable storage, including a 2GB SD card
  Up to 10 hours of use and over 24 hours of standby time, with a replaceable battery
  Access to over 2 Million ebooks via included Borders E-book library portal application
  Access to the Cruz Market™, an open content portal for downloading apps, magazines, and videos from a broad array of content providers.

The Cruz Tablet comes with all of the features as the Cruz Reader, but it sports some additional goodies:

  7" 16:9 ratio, 800x480 capacitive display – great for viewing widescreen video
  802.11n wifi for faster wireless connectivity
  Integrated microphone for voice recording
  4GB of built in storage with an 8GB SD card in the box for additional storage of high res photos, video, and music

Again, the Cruz Tablet costs $299, which is a reasonable price for the added features. 

Lastly, we have the Cruz StoryPad ($149) marketed towards children as it comes in a drop-resistant package, intuitive interface, interactive content, and the features listed below:

  7" 4:3 800x600 full color touch screen display
  Simplistic and intuitive navigation
  High res video and high quality audio playback
  Preinstalled audio book content – reads classic stories as the child follows along
  SD card for additional storage
  Available in pink, blue, and green

The Cruz Reader and Cruz StoryPad will be available starting in August, and the Cruz Tablet will be available in starting on September 1. 

Read [PRWeb]

Check out the full press release below:

Richmond, VA (PRWEB) July 14, 2010
Velocity Micro, the premier builder of premium, high performance desktop computers, notebooks, and peripherals, announces the debut products from a captivating and affordable line-up of Android powered mobile devices. Taking e-readers light-years past e-ink, the Cruz Reader features a sleek design, touch screen display, and tons of multimedia features. The Cruz Tablet offers the same multimedia capabilities as the Cruz Reader with more storage and a multi-touch screen. Perfect for kids, the Cruz StoryPad offers a touch screen, interactive content, and intuitive interface. Best of all, the Cruz line starts at just $149.
"Since 1992, Velocity Micro has been dedicated to building remarkable consumer electronics," said Randy Copeland, President and CEO of Velocity Micro. "With the development of the Cruz line, we were able to take those enthusiast sensibilities and package them for the mainstream consumer to create a product that's not only amazing, but affordable as well."
At under one pound and about a half inch thick, the $199, 7" Cruz Reader goes everywhere you do, making it perfect for students, avid readers, frequent flyers, and techies. Additional features such as video playback and web browsing provide a much richer experience than traditional e-ink readers at a more reasonable price than a tablet.
Key specs and features include:
  Crystal clear 4:3 ratio, 800x600 full color touch screen display – ideal for viewing ebooks and magazines, plus web pages and movies
  Google Android Operating System
  802.11b/g wifi and full Web browser support
  High res video and high quality audio playback with no proprietary content restrictions
  Built-in Dictionary, Notepad, Calendar, Alarm Clock, Contacts, Games, and other useful apps
  Built in accelerometer, tilt activated
  Enough built in storage for hundreds of books
  USB and SD card slot for upgradable storage, including a 2GB SD card
  Up to 10 hours of use and over 24 hours of standby time, with a replaceable battery
  Access to over 2 Million ebooks via included Borders E-book library portal application
  Access to the Cruz Market™, an open content portal for downloading apps, magazines, and videos from a broad array of content providers.
At $299, the Cruz Tablet offers a truly mobile experience at an affordable price, finally giving consumers an Android-based tablet alternative.
Spec and feature upgrades include:
  7" 16:9 ratio, 800x480 capacitive display – great for viewing widescreen video
  802.11n wifi for faster wireless connectivity
  Integrated microphone for voice recording
  4GB of built in storage with an 8GB SD card in the box for additional storage of high res photos, video, and music
Rounding out the Cruz line, the $149 Cruz StoryPad packs tons of multimedia features into a kid friendly, drop resistant package, letting children read, learn, and interact using a simple and intuitive touch interface. Features include:
  7" 4:3 800x600 full color touch screen display
  Simplistic and intuitive navigation
  High res video and high quality audio playback
  Preinstalled audio book content – reads classic stories as the child follows along
  SD card for additional storage
  Available in pink, blue, and green
The Cruz Reader and Cruz StoryPad will be available from most major retailers and direct from Velocity Micro in August with the Cruz Tablet following on September 1st. For more information or to sign up for e-newsletter updates, visit CruzReader.com.
About Velocity Micro, Inc
Velocity Micro, Inc. is the premier high-performance personal computer provider in North America. Founded in 1992, Richmond, Va.-based Velocity Micro custom builds award winning gaming, mobile, multimedia, small business, workstation, visual supercomputers and peripherals. Velocity Micro products are currently available at most consumer electronics retailers nationwide. For more information, please call (800) 303-7866 or visit www.VelocityMicro.com.
Velocity Micro has earned over 60 industry awards, including 11 PC Magazine Editor’s Choice awards. CNET, Maximum PC, Mobile PC, PC World, Computer Gaming World, Computer Shopper, and PC Gamer editors have all chosen Velocity Micro systems as some of the industry’s best-performing, highest-quality, and most reliable PCs.

Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



Rumor: Verizon to end Motorola Droid BOGO offer on July 17

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Verizon Wireless ends BOGO Offer

One popular deal Verizon is offering is the Buy One Get One for free for the Motorola Droid and HTC Droid Eris.  Basically, if you purchased a Motorola Droid, you are eligible to purchase the HTC Droid Eris.  However, according to a Verizon internal document, it seems the BOGO offer is going to end on July 17.  With the Motorola Droid X launching tomorrow, every customer eligible for an upgrade that wants an Android smartphone will probably purchase the Motorola Droid X or wait until Motorola Droid 2.  If they wish to wait a long time, they might even purchase the HTC Droid Incredible.  Maybe we’ll see Verizon launch a similar BOGO deal in the near future? 

Via [Droid-Life]

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Verizon’s summer catalog leaks, features Motorola Droid 2

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Verizon Summer Catalog with Motorola Droid 2

The chatter on the Motorola Droid 2 has been pretty quiet as of late, but that could be due to the impending launch of the Motorola Droid X.  However, a leaked Verizon summer catalog found its way into the hands of BGR and it shows the Motorola Droid 2 as “coming soon.”  It does reveal some specs of the unconfirmed Motorola Droid 2 which makes it a mid-range device on the Verizon network. 

Basically, the Motorola Droid 2 comes with 8GB memory onboard, virtual and slide out QWERTY keyboard, 5MP camera, 3G Mobile hotspot, and a 1GHz Processor.  No word on whether or not it features Android 2.2 out of the box, but the last rumor we heard said the Motorola Droid 2 is tipped for an August 23 release and will launch with Android 2.2.  On the cover of the catalog, the Motorola Droid 2 is pictured along with the Motorola Droid X, BlackBerry Bold 9650, the Palm Pre Plus, and Palm Pre Pixi.  Interestingly enough, there doesn’t seem to be a mention of the Samsung Fascinate (Verizon’s flavor of the Samsung Galaxy S). 

The rest of the catalog can be viewed at BGR

Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



FM Radio will soon be available on the Google Nexus One

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones

Google Nexus One

The Google Nexus One has always had a capability to play FM Radio, but Google said they had no plans to implement the necessary software technology to enable the FM Radio.  In fact, the similar HTC Desire even has a FM Radio app, so there is no doubt the Nexus One could play FM Radio if made to do so.  With that in mind, it looks like people have already begun working on the necessary ROM that will enable the N1 to play FM Radio. 

A user named intersectRaven already created a kernal that can be used in ROMs to make FM Radio a reality.  The problem is, you cannot download and install the kernal into your N1 and expect it to work, you will have to wait until the kernal is implemented in a ROM first.  Basically, a kernal is a necessary component of any ROM, but the user never actually uses or sees the kernal at work, only the ROM developer.  However, a developer by the name of Paul O’Brien is already using intersectRaven’s kernal in his own FM Radio ROM that should be available soon.  His tweet can be seen below:

Cool, FM radio working in my forthcoming Froyo Sense (r23) port for Nexus One thanks to intersectraven’s kernel!

Read [XDA-Developers Forum]

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Motorola Droid X receives an OTA software update

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Motorola Droid X Update

Many bloggers have been given the opportunity to review the Motorola Droid X before launch, including our very own Editor.  In addition, 170 Motorola Droid X’s were shipped early so 170 Verizon customers have the phone as well.  According to Android Central, Verizon has begun to roll out a second software update OTA before the launch on Thursday.  If you have not yet received the update, be patient because roll outs generally take a bit of time.  The update is pretty big - 18MB.  But no one really knows what it fixes or changes, but it is definitely not Android 2.2 (sorry!). 

After you receive the 18MB update, you should be running version 1.13.604.en.US, instead of 1.13.516.  If we hear what exactly the OTA update changes, we’ll keep you posted. 

Via [Android Central]

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Opera Mini Comes Out of Beta With Version 5.1 on Android

Section: Communications, Smartphones, Mobile, Web, Web Browsers

Opera Mini Comes Out of Beta With Version 5.1 on Android I have never really gotten into Opera. I always found it easier to go with Firefox or Chrome on my desktop and the default browser on my Droid. Well that certainly has changed (at least with the Droid) now that Opera Mini 5.1 has officially been stripped of its beta tags and is ready for download on the Android market.

If you have tried any of the previous versions of the beta, you probably uninstalled it pretty quickly like I did. However, this new update adds a bit more functionality that ties the bow on Opera Mini and makes it a very very good browser alternative.

You might be surprised to find that this new rendition of the browser really doesn’t have anything different from the last release. The exception being larger display support, which based on the trend with the Evo and Droid X, is a good thing. But the stability update has really tied the bow on Opera, making it my browser of choice.

Read [Opera] Via [SlashGear]

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Verizon will have enough Droid X devices to meet customer needs

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Motorola Droid X

Yesterday, we reported that it seemed like Motorola was limiting the amount of Droid X smartphones available for purchase on launch day.  However, Verizon spokeswoman, Brenda Raney, put that rumor to rest as she came out with a statement saying Verizon Wireless retail stores will be sufficiently equipped with enough phones.  The full statement is below:

“While we are currently experiencing delays on orders of one of our more popular phones [The HTC Droid Incredible]. We view that as an anomaly driven by a combination of supply and popularity,” she said. “At present, we feel that we have done everything possible to ensure we have inventory to meet customer needs around the Droid X—the proof will be in the execution on July 15.”

This comes as good news for those planning on purchasing a Motorola Droid X in two days, hopefully every customer who wants a phone will be able to purchase one.  Sprint has faced HTC EVO 4G shortages as of late, and everyone knows about the HTC Droid Incredible saga; let’s hope Motorola and Verizon are able to keep supply and demand up for the next highly anticipated Droid smartphone. 

Via [CNN]

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The Expendables movie retro game on Facebook

FROM GAMERTELL - The biggest action movie in the history of ever has an 8-bit extravaganza playable on Facebook, provided you “like” The Expendables movie page…
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Sprint CEO Hesse considers move to LTE; possible T-Mobile USA merger?

Section: Business News, Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Sprint Logo

Sprint, which currently operates its 4G network on WiMAX, may consider a move towards using LTE.  In an interview with Financial Times, CEO of Sprint, Dan Hesse, gave this statement:

"We have the spectrum resources where we could add LTE if we choose to do that, on top of the WiMAX network," he added. "The beauty of having a lot of spectrum is we have a lot of flexibility."

He is receiving bids from telecoms equipment manufacturers who want Sprint’s business in order to deploy LTE technology.  If Sprint does, indeed, move towards using LTE, then the possibility of a T-Mobile USA and Sprint merger once again becomes a reality.  Back in 2008, Deutsche Telekom, the parent company of T-Mobile USA, considered a merger with Sprint, but the two companies were headed on different paths in terms of 3G technology.  However, T-Mobile is scheduled to deploy similar LTE networks in the next few years, meaning both T-Mobile and Sprint will be operating on the same 4G technology in the next two to three years if Sprint chooses to do so. 

Currently, both Sprint and T-Mobile are lagging behind Verizon and AT&T making a move between the former companies almost necessary.  T-Mobile has even been rumored to bite the dust come 2011 unless a merger deal is pulled off.  Hesse even says there is “logic” by merging the two lagging companies but refused to entertain the idea any further.  René Obermann, chief executive of Deutsche Telekom, said no multi-billion Euro deals would take place this year, meaning the merger (if it were to happen) would take place in 2011 or beyond. 

Via [Financial Times]

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Will Apple recall the iPhone 4?

FROM APPLETELL - Apple hasn’t done much to address the iPhone 4 reception issue, but it is a very real problem for the company. We have to wonder, then, whether Apple will issue a recall of the iPhone 4.
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Microsoft offers up Windows 7 SP1 public beta

Section: Computers, Software / Applications

Service Pack 1 for Windows 7 has been released, albeit still in beta. But that said, its available for those willing to take the early plunge. Otherwise you can sit back and wait for the final non-beta version to come in the future. And just so you can get an idea of what you are in for, lots of patches, in fact its 1.2GB worth of patches. Personally, given you will not getting any support with the beta should something go wrong—I would suggest taking the sit back and wait for the official release plan.

Read [Microsoft Technet] Via [Engadget]

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Rumor: Battery problems will delay the Motorola Charm release

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Motorola Charm

Only a short six days ago T-Mobile and Motorola officially confirmed the Motorola Charm, a candybar Android device based upon social networking.  At the time of the press release, Motorola said the Charm would be available this summer, and a previous rumor claimed the Charm would be a part of a back-to-school promotion.  Even though it was slated for a summer release, many believed it would launch sometime in July, however, a current rumor says the release will be pushed back until August 25. 

TmoNews claims to have only heard whispers about such a delay, so take this rumor with a grain of salt.  Apparently the Charm has faced battery life issues which might prompt T-Mobile to sell extended batteries with the Motorola Charm.  Of course, if we hear more news on this issue we will keep you updated.

Via [TmoNews]

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Hyperkin launches non-slip dance mat for DDR

FROM GAMERTELL - Hyperkin is making DDR more fun with its new non-slip durable dance mat…
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Viliv N5 mobile internet device now in-stock & shipping with Dynamism, priced from $649

Section: Computers, Mobile Computers

Viliv N5 mobile internet device now in-stock &shipping with Dynamism, priced from $649

Those who may have been waiting—the Viliv N5 mobile internet device is now available (with same day shipping) by way of online retailer Dynamism.

The clamshell styled N5 comes touting a 4.8 inch WSVGA (1024 x 600) touchscreen display, QWERTY keyboard, 1.3GHz Intel Atom Z520 processor, 1GB of RAM, 32GB SSD and Windows 7 Starter. Other features include GPS, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, a 1.3 megapixel webcam, microSD card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, one USB port and a battery life of up to 6 hours.

As for making the purchase, there are two models available. One with the above mentioned specs for $649 and the second with a built-in 3G (Huawei EM770W) modem for $799. In addition, for what is described as a “launch event special” you will also get a free second battery with purchase.

Product [Viliv]

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Windows Phone 7 will feature Windows Phone Live for free

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Windows Phone 7 Logo Straight from the Windows Steam Blog, it looks like Windows Phone 7 will launch with a service called Windows Phone Live which is meant to organize and collaborate all your important events and data.  It even features a remote wipe option and other tools to find a misplaced or stolen phone. 

Windows Phone Live brings together your Windows Live contacts and calendar information.  Expect OneNote support and complete photo sync, meaning every picture taken will be hosted to your personal web account - this feature should include videos as well.  Office and Zune support will be standard and every user will receive 25GB of SkyDive storage as well.  Third party app developers will be able to take advantage of its push notification system.  In case you misplace or lose your phone, you can access the Find My Phone service, which will allow you to map your phone’s location, ring, lock, and even remote wipe it. 

The nice thing about Windows Phone Live is that it will launch for free on Windows Phone 7 phones.  It will launch later this year with support for five different languages including English, French, Italian, German and Spanish. 

Via [Windows Team Blog]

Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



California submits arguments in videogame violence case

FROM GAMERTELL - The Supreme Court case centers on a proposed California law that would ban the sale or rental of “excessively” violent games to minors…
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Motorola Droid X at Wirefly; get “a really nice deal, as well a little something extra!”

Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile

Motorola Droid X at Wirefly; get a really nice deal, as well a little something extra

We already knew that the Motorola Droid X was going to be available with online retailer Wirefly. And we already knew that it would go on sale as of 12:01 AM PST on July 15th. But now it looks like they are doing a little more teasing. Of course the price is still unknown, but according to Wirefly;

“We're going to offer a really nice deal, as well a little something extra!”

Hmm, something extra. Sounds good. And for those who may have been looking for a nice side-by-side compare of the Motorola Droid X and HTC Droid Incredible, Wirefly has one.

Product [Wirefly]

Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



Put down the iPhone 4 - and pick up MM03 Bluetooth handset

Section: Communications, Accessories, Smartphones, Mobile, Reviews, Features

MM03 Native Union Bluetooth Handset

If you use your iPhone for business calls, you’ve likely been frustrated with iPhone 4’s reception issues.  Native Union’s MM03 Bluetooth Handset is designed to pair with the iPhone so you can avoid touching the phone and keeping reception maximized.  I’ve gotten ahold of a MM03 and spent the past week with it.

The Good:

I found the product concept appealing, as I sit at a desk all day.  For calls that come in on my iPhone, having a Bluetooth handset is pretty handy.  The base of the unit is a shiny and glossy rectangle that the rather plasticy handset seems slightly outclassed by.  The unit looks good sitting on the desk.

The MM03 pairs easily with the iPhone.  It felt more comfortable to answer calls on the MM03 vs the iPhone.  Holding the handset between head and shoulder is far more comfortable than doing it with an iPhone or wearing an handsfree headset for me. 

The MM03 solved the poor reception issue with the iPhone for me.  After experiencing dropped calls just holding the iPhone 4, it was a relief to use the MM03, not worrying how I was holding the phone. 

The Bad

I found sound quality to vary wildly on the MM03.  What my callers heard ranged from great to poor to garbled and I was unable to replicate the issue.  This was frustrating but I reminded myself I was on a cell phone and that’s still a suitable excuse for poor sound. 

I was also hoping to connect the MM03 to the iPad for Skype calls - no luck there.  The company says, “right now, the MM03 is not compatible with the iPad/iPod touch because it will not connect via Bluetooth. This is just a small firmware upgrade that is deactivated on the actual iPad OS, but we have good hope that Apple will open this soon.”  Prospects for the iPod touch is less hopeful.

Product page: [Native Union]


Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »



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