Section: Video, Content Netflix seems to be doing everything in it’s power to get as much content as possible available for streaming. While some TV networks have signed on to stream their TV shows, it seems Netflix doesn’t have a chance at getting HBO content. The reason, of course, has to do with money. According to The Hollywood Reporter citing an unnamed source at Time Warner which owns HBO, Netflix would have to charge customers something closer to $20 instead of the current $7.99 for streaming. At that price the company would be able to get a “meaningful amount of HBO content.” The reason is because HBO wants to retain it’s exclusivity, especially when it comes to the channel’s “high-value content.” Basically, it’s shows are expensive to make, so it needs to charge a lot for us to watch them. This doesn’t come as a complete surprise, though it is a bit depressing. The only way to get HBO is by subscribing to it through your cable provider, with no chance to watch the content instantly if you don’t have cable. There is HBO Go, but that requires the same subscription through your cable provider. It would be nice if HBO offered some sort of streaming for those of us who don’t want cable subscriptions. Don’t we deserve the chance to give HBO money to watch Boardwalk Empire? Read [CNet] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Video, Content, Portable Video, Video Providers 
A couple of hours after it announced that the “Add to DVD queue” option will be removed from streaming devices, Netflix users started pouring their anger on the comment section of the blog entry posted on the Netflix blog. Many users were angered by Netflix’s decision to remove this feature because it basically eliminates the option for them to mark content to be shipped as a DVD if it is not available for streaming online. According to Netflix, the decision to remove the option so that they can concentrate on offering Netflix users with titles that are available to watch instantly. The “Add to DVD queue” feature complicates the instant watching experience and ties up resources that are otherwise better used in improving Netflix’s overall streaming functionality. Reading up the comments posted by angered Netflix users, one issue pointed out was the fact that Netflix might actually be trying to gradually stop its DVD subscription service as it raises DVD prices while at the same time removing this option for users to order DVDs. How about you folks? Are you ok with Netflix’s decision to remove the “Add to DVD queue” option? Read [Netflix Blog] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Apple, Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones  Unless you follow technology routinely, chances are you didn’t know about the iPhone on Verizon until late December or early January. If that was the case, you might have gone ahead and purchased a normal feature phone, a pre-owned phone, or a smartphone even though you would much rather purchase an iPhone. Verizon understands your frustration and offers a decent remedy. If you purchased a new smartphone, feature phone or certified pre-owned phone between 11/26/2010, and 01/10/2011 you are eligible to receive up to $200 in a Visa debit card. Essentially, the more expensive your phone cost, the more money you will receive in credit. Now, you will be able to purchase a 16GB iPhone or 32GB iPhone at full retail price for $649.99 and $749.99, respectively. Keep in mind you would have your original device that you could sell to help pay for the new iPhone 4. This promotion will only be allowed for iPhone 4 purchases until February 28. Below is the information as explained by Verizon in its FAQ section: I just purchased a new smartphone during the holiday season, but if I knew that iPhone 4 was going to be available soon I would have waited. What are my options now? Current Verizon customers who purchased and activated new smartphones, feature phones or certified pre-owned phones between 11/26/2010, and 01/10/2011, are eligible to receive up to a $200 Visa debit card when they purchase an iPhone 4 at full retail price by 02/28/2011 and return their existing phone. Note: This offer is only available on consumer accounts with five lines or less, who are purchasing iPhone 4 through Verizon Wireless retail stores, telesales, or through verizonwireless.com.
Via [Verizon Wireless] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Apple, Video, Content, Portable Video, Video Providers Here’s a nice app that will make you love your iPad even more - TiVo iPad app. Basically, this iPad app offers a fun new companion for your TiVo box. The app allows you to search, browse, discover and share what you’re watching. It lets you quickly surface new content, schedule and manage recordings, view guides, investigate actor’s resume, or get recommendations. All of these you can easily do via your iPad’s gesture-based controls.
In other words, TiVo iPad app gives you an innovative way of interacting with your TiVo subscriptions as you sit leisurely on your couch. The TiVo app supports TiVo Premiere and TiVo Premiere XL boxes. So, if you have any of those two TV set-up boxes, you might want to consider getting this iPad app. Other features of the iPad app include - full-screen program guide, one-time recordings, season recordings, instant playback of recorded show via flick gesture, search facility across broadcast TV and TiVo’s providers including Netflix and Amazon Video on Demand, and a facility to explore cast and crew while watching a TiVo show. The TiVo iPad app is available now as a free download from the App Store. Product [iTunes] Read [TiVo Blog] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones LG Ally owners are about to get a nice treat in the shape of Froyo. The long anticipated software update for Ally owners is about to happen, as a leaked Verizon Wireless doc talks about Android 2.2 on the Ally. No word on when the update is set to take place, but since the document exists, I imagine it can’t be that much longer. The update, named VS740ZVD, brings these notable enhancements to complement Android 2.2: Improved security options include remote device wipe, device lock, password complexity, and a minimum password length.
Long press of physical home key allows easy switching between the last eight applications used.
Bluetooth voice dialing displays your verbal instructions and repeats them back to ensure accuracy.
Feel free to let us know in the comments if and when you begin to receive Android 2.2 on your Ally. Via [AndroidCentral] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones The Samsung Vibrant is one of the more popular devices on T-Mobile and it is no surprise Samsung is working on a Vibrant 4G to include a few hardware upgrades, a software upgrade, and 4G connectivity. We have heard a fair amount of rumors, but have not seen images of the Vibrant 4G in-the-wild until today. BGR has received an image of the Samsung Vibrant 4G featuring Android 2.3 and a front facing camera from a source they trust very well. Skeptics of the image claim a front facing camera can easily be added in and Android could be changed around to reflect Gingerbread, making the image merely a Vibrant. BGR stands by the source, but does concede the image could be fake. Another rumor claims the device could be ready to launch as early as February 23, although BGR’s source doesn’t comment on availability or pricing. If the specs turn out to be true, T-Mobile customers will have another powerful 4G option in the Vibrant 4G. Via [BGR] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones The Samsung Vibrant 4G rumor mill is churning out many rumors as we have already seen a leaked image of a possible Samsung Vibrant 4G and now we have a rumored release date. According to the screen shot above, the successor to original T-Mobile Galaxy S device could launch on February 23. If that is the case, we should hear an official announcement from T-Mobile coming in mid-February. Pricing details still remain a mystery, but hopefully pricing rumors are revealed soon enough. In other Vibrant news, Samsung has yet to announce a definite date for Android 2.2. Via [TmoNews] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Business News, Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones If you plan on purchasing and activating a smartphone on Sprint starting January 30, make sure you understand the contract you are signing because Sprint announced today a new premium data charge. On Sprint’s Everything Data plan, a new premium charge of $10 is being added and even if you are currently in a smartphone contract you will see the addition once you activate a new smartphone. Sprint prides itself on its true unlimited data plans but claims it needs the extra surcharge to bolster networks and provide even better data coverage. At this point, I would definitely consider going with a 4G smartphone even though where I live isn’t covered by Sprint’s 4G WiMAX. Sprint charges an extra $10 for 4G service, which is now comparable to its 3G Everything Data plan. The full press release can be read below: Smartphones Drive Wireless Data Explosion Sprint takes step to ensure customers continue to enjoy unlimited data while on the Sprint Network, without overages Smartphone penetration is expected to double during the next four years.1
Market share for Google's Android operating system grew by 23 percent last year alone.2
Mobile data traffic is forecast to double worldwide each year through 2014.3
OVERLAND PARK, Kan.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—Today's ability to do more things on the go – such as watching videos, sharing pictures or checking directions – is not only changing the way we live; it is driving exponential growth of mobile data traffic. "Sprint continues to be the carrier for people who want to do more than just talk with their wireless devices"
Sprint (NYSE: S) is committed to providing its customers a great wireless experience now and in the future. From its packed portfolio of innovative phones and devices to its leadership in introducing 4G services, to its consumer-friendly Everything Data plans, featuring unlimited text, Web and calling to any mobile phone, Sprint offers the best value in wireless. Sprint will increase its postpaid rates by applying a $10 per month Premium Data add-on charge to activations of smartphones beginning Jan. 30. The charge will assist Sprint in offering simple and affordable unlimited plans for its customers while maintaining a wireless network able to meet the growing appetite for a richer mobile experience. Subscribers with smartphones will still receive the best value in wireless, including the Any Mobile, Anytime feature offered nationwide only by Sprint. Sprint also offers a full range of traditional feature phones, including popular eco-friendly or touch-screen handsets that do not require the Premium Data add-on charge but still have a great range of capabilities with voice, text and data access. Existing Sprint smartphone customers are not affected unless they upgrade to or activate another smartphone. "Sprint wants its customers to experience the range of entertainment and productivity possibilities available with today's wireless technology," said Bob H. Johnson, president of Sprint's consumer business. "While some of our competitors impose overage charges and complex plans, Sprint continues to provide a worry-free, unlimited data experience while on the Sprint network. This is responsible, sustainable and reflects our commitment to simplicity and value." "Sprint's decision to apply the Premium Data add-on charge to activations of smartphones going forward recognizes the enhanced user experience that today's smartphones deliver, which, in turn, drives substantially higher data usage and cost," said Roger Entner, analyst and founder of Recon Analytics. "Building, maintaining and expanding wireless data networks isn't free – there are real costs involved. In effect, Sprint has chosen to increase the price of its unlimited Everything Data plans, which is still below that of its major competitors, for the segment of customers – smartphone users – who are using wireless data the most and are driving up costs. Consumers have many choices. They can choose unlimited, worry-free data plans on the Sprint network or they can have tiered, metered plans and overage charges with other wireless carriers." Smartphone customers use, on average, 10 times more data than users of traditional feature phones. Smartphone users have access to more data capabilities, applications and other functionality than traditional feature phones. Examples include access to thousands of applications and games through online marketplaces and full HTML Web browsing with Adobe Flash technology that allows users to browse the Internet on their devices just like they can at home or in the office. Sprint defines smartphones as devices with robust operating systems that deliver a rich wireless experience by bringing the full function of mobile applications and programs to life, including Blackberry, Android, Windows Mobile, Palm, and the Instinct family of devices. The Premium Data add-on charge previously applied to HTC EVO 4G, HTC EVO Shift 4G and Samsung Epic 4G devices. "Sprint continues to be the carrier for people who want to do more than just talk with their wireless devices," said Johnson. "Customer growth on our 3G and 4G networks, exponential increases in the use of mobile data applications, and the growing use of smartphones is proof that consumers are getting the message. "Sprint's unlimited data plans, with or without the $10 charge, continue to beat the offerings of our top national competitors, who cap users' data, charge data overages, and do not offer the unique functionality of Any Mobile, Anytime, which gives subscribers on the Sprint network unlimited calling to any other wireless user in America regardless of carrier."
Via [BusinessWire] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile If you’re on T-Mobile or looking to switch carriers and purchase a smartphone, T-Mobile is running a pretty sweet deal right now for its G2. Between now and January 20, the T-Mobile G2 is available for free on a two year contract. After that, it will presumably go back to its normal price of $50. The T-Mobile G2 is one of the better Android devices on T-Mobile and it is 4G to boot. To recap some of its specs, it comes with a 3.7 inch touch screen, 5MP camera, Android 2.2, and its trademark slider QWERTY keyboard. Be sure to act on this deal fast as it will be gone in merely two days. Via [T-Mobile] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Mobile _Product_image_(1).jpg)
Samsung Korea has officially announced its follow up to the very successful feature phone Samsung Star, this time called well - Samsung Star II. In case you’re not aware, the Samsung Star has sold more than 30 million units making it one of the most successful Samsung feature phones. With the Star II, Samsung has designed a nice feature phone with a personalized user-interface with full-touch screen feature. Additionally, the Samsung Star II lets you integrate your contact list from your phone and your social networking accounts. It also comes with preloaded social networking apps such as Facebook and Twitter as well as instant messaging platforms such as Facebook chat, Yahoo Messenger, Gtalk, and AIM.
Specs-wise, the Samsung Star II boasts of TouchWiz 3.0 user interface, a 3.2MP camera, and 3-inch WQVGA screen. The Samsung Star is scheduled for release starting February in Germany to be followed by other European countries, Middle East, India, South America and CIS. No words yet on whether it will be available in the U.S. and other countries. via [Koreaittimes] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Computers, Mobile Computers, Laptops, Netbooks It looks like Asus is pulling out a surprise product this coming Wednesday as some sites are reporting to have received those Asus invites. The product? Well, it’s neither a smartphone nor a tablet but a new Eee PC netbook. Another interesting information is the fact that said Eee Pc is no longer carying the Seashell branding but rather a new name - Sirocco. Also stated in the invitation is the phase - “making waves,” which could actually mean anything right now. But if you’ll look closely at the background image of the invitation, this Eee Pc Sirocco might probably have a textured surface. Perhaps a premium Eee PC netbook brand. So, what’s your guesses folks? What is Asus up to this coming Wednesday? via [MobileandNotebook] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Business News, Apple In an email to Apple employees, Apple CEO Steve Jobs announced his latest medical leave of absence. He does not cite any specific reason as to why he is taking the leave of absence, but we can only assume it is a serious enough medical condition. Tim Cook will take over in day-to-day operations, as he has done before, but Jobs will remain as CEO and will still be “involved in major strategic decisions.” Hopefully Jobs has a speedy recovery and is able to resume his normal position as soon as possible. The full email message can be read below: Team, At my request, the board of directors has granted me a medical leave of absence so I can focus on my health. I will continue as CEO and be involved in major strategic decisions for the company. I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for all of Apple's day to day operations. I have great confidence that Tim and the rest of the executive management team will do a terrific job executing the exciting plans we have in place for 2011. I love Apple so much and hope to be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, my family and I would deeply appreciate respect for our privacy. Steve
Via [Businesswire] Image Credit: Slashgear Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
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