Section: Communications, Mobile, Computers, Mobile Computers  If you own the Creative ZiiO Android tablet which has bee running Android 2.1 for quite some time now, you can start rejoicing starting March 25 as you will soon be able to upgrade your tablet’s OS to Android 2.2 Froyo via the support.creative.com or through the ZiiO Space portal. This portable is loaded on your ZiiO tablets.
For those who are planning to get the Creative ZiiO 7, you might want to get it now since all units of the said tablet are now running Android 2.2 upon purchase. Or you might want to get the Creative ZiiO 10 instead which will also ship with Android 2.2 starting April 2011. As a review, some of the nicest feature that you’ll enjoy with Android 2.2 on your Creative ZiiO Android tablet include - the ability to install apps on your tablet’s external SD card, improved security, localized language support, text-to-speech and the ability to view pages in both desktop and mobile formats. via [PR Web] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Smartphones, Mobile There’s not stopping Kobo reader app from making its presence felt in all mobile phones. The e-reader app’s latest iteration is by way of Samsung Windows 7 phones. Although you can’t find it yet under the “Samsung Zone” tab, you can get the app by doing the “find more SAMSUNG…” trick or you can just grab the app from the source link below using your Samsung Windows phone. Another thing to note here is that when you first load the app after downloading and installing it on your phone, the app says that it contains Adobe Reader Mobile technology. But when you search for e-books, the app will actually search the Kobo e-bookstore. This lead us to believe that it is indeed the Kobo e-reader app that you are actually using. The app looks nice though. So if you’re looking for an alternative e-book source for your Samsung Windows Phone, you might want to check it out. That is of course if you don’t mind creating a userID and login to your Adobe account though. Seems like a pretty tedious process, but if you’re a Kobo fan, there’s no reason why you won’t love this Samsung Windows phone app. Product [Kobo Windows Phone] Via [Mobility Digest] and [WPCentral] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile Sprint has just announced that starting today, both the Samsung Epic 4G and Samsung Galaxy Tab will now be Sprint ID-enabled. This means that if you are a Sprint customer who own any of these devices or if you are planning to get any of them - you will be able to download an “ID pack” which contains apps,widgets, ringtones, wallpapers, shortcuts and more that can be tailored to your interests, business needs or favorite brands via a single download. If you’re an existing owner of the Samsung Epic 4G and Samsung Galaxy Tab, you will be prompted to accept the OTA software update for Sprint ID and Froyo. Once installed, you can find the Sprint ID icon added to your phone’s app menu. In addition, for Samsung Epic 4G users, the software update will also include the Android 2.2 Froyo which as you all know by now enables Adobe Flash 10.1 support and Bluetooth dialing as well as app installation to your phone’s SD card. The Sprint ID pack include - entertainment, yahoo, MTV Music ID, social networking, ESPN ID, location-based apps, fashion and beauty widgets, health and fitness and household. via [Business Wire] Full Story » | Written by Arnold Zafra for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Mobile, Computers, Mobile Computers Canadian Android fans must have felt a bit left out for the past few weeks. The Xoom is currently available only in the US, while our neighbors to the North are left in the cold. Well, next month Canadians will also have the chance to pass up on the oppurtunity to buy a Xoom. Motorola has announced that it will be launching the Honeycomb tablet in Canada in April, which is only a weeks and a half away at this point. There’s no price point or exact date for the Xoom’s Canadian launch, but one would hope it’s roughly equivalent to the USD$599 American’s will be paying for the device. The one big difference between the US and Canadian launches will be that Candian users will have access to Flash on day one, even if it’s in beta form. If you’re hoping to get your hands on the Xoom with 3G in Canada you’ll have to wait a bit longer. Motorola says the 3G version will arrive in the country at “mid-year,” whatever that means. It probably means somewhere around June, but could realistically be anywhere from May to possibly even August. If you’re lucky the terms won’t be as harsh as they are for Verizon. Two-year plans just don’t seem like the best way to go or tablets. Read [Yahoo Finance] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Smartphones, Mobile Before we’re inundated with news from CTIA this week A&T has announced two new phones that we can expect to see soon. Those phones are the HTC HD7S and LG Thrill 4G. Both are slightly changed versions of phones we’ve seen elsewhere, but are still worth a mention. The LG Thrill 4G is AT&T’s first 3D smartphone. We’ve actually seen the phone before, it’s a rebranded version of the LG Optimus 3D. It has a 4.3-inch screen with glasses-free 3D with dual 5MP cameras around the back for taking 3D images and vide. The video is 1080p in 2D and 720p in 3D. Inside you’ll also find a 1 GHz dual-core CPU, 8GB of internal storage (plus an 8GB microSD card), HDMI output, and DLNA streaming. The Thrill will also have a special market for 3D apps called LG 3D Space (of course you’ll get the Android Market as well). The Thrill will be out in “the coming months,” with no price point yet. The second phone is a version of the HD7 that’s already on T-Mobile. The hardware of the phone seems to be the same, save for the fact that the HD7S has a super LCD display. It’s the same 4.3-inch size running WIndows Phone 7 on a 1 GHz CPU. It will also come loaded with an AT&T U-verse app The app will let “qualifying U-Verse customers” watch and download TV on the phone. Non-U-verse customers can get the same functionality from the app byt subscribing to U-Verse mobile for $9.99 a month. Again no firm price point or release date for the HD7S. Read [MarketWatch] and [AT&T] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile Cricket Wireless has officially launched the latest variant of the LG Optimus, the LG Optimus C. And similar to the other Optimus models, this one is sporting a 3.2 inch HVGA display, 600MHz processor, 3.2 megapixel camera, 3G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3.5mm headphone jack, GPS and is running Android 2.2 Froyo. But perhaps what is a little more exciting is that the Optimus C comes priced contract free at $130 and can be used on the $55 per month unlimited plan from Cricket. Also worth noting, that $130 price tag comes after a $50 mail-in-rebate and along with a $20 instant web discount. Via [Cricket Wireless] Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Email / IM, Smartphones, Mobile  Boom. All of a sudden Google Voice just became a big deal after getting Sprint to come aboard. As of today, Sprint customers can make their number a Google Voice number. Just like that, Sprint customers can choose to ring any number of phones when someone calls their number, they can choose to have transcripted voice mails get texted or emailed or any number of the awesome features Google Voice offers. Sprint numbers can now be made into Google Voice numbers.
Confused? It’s rather simple: Sprint customers can now choose to turn on Google Voice for their voicemail and added features to control their devices. Users Sprint Voicemail will stop (and you’ll lose any voicemails left on the system) once you make the transition. But that is about where any bad news comes into play. After that, it’s all good. Google Voice allows crazy customization cell phone users have only dreamed about until now. You may have heard tech pundits singing the praises but Sprint has made it even easier as now, Sprint users don’t have to use a special app to dial out or jump through hoops to make it all “seamless”. For Sprint users, it just is. Big ups to Sprint for offering something completely different and something we don’t think Verizon and AT&T will follow. Read: [TechCrunch] Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Computers, Desktops, Mobile Computers, Laptops If you are in the market for a new computer and have had you eye on the Dell Streak 5 tablet, then Dell may have an offer for your. The offer is simple, buy any Dell computer for $699.99 or more and get the Android 2.2 equipped Streak 5 for $99.99. And nicely, the version the are offering for $99.99 is unlocked and the computer purchase can be a notebook or desktop system. In short, buy a Dell computer and get a low priced Streak tablet. Those interested can hit the ‘via’ link below to move forward with a purchase. Via [Dell] Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Smartphones, Mobile So far, I am perplexed by the this hot little number from AT&T and HTC. It looks and behaves like a smartphone only it’s member of AT&Ts brigade of Quick Messaging phones. Both inside and outside, this is one fancy non-smartphone. A simple slate design, the phone features a responsive touch screen complete with soft keyboard, an app store and the feel of an Android or iOS style phone. Only, it’s not. It’s just a Java Brew MP phone that’s been skinned to look and feel like any number of HTC’s Android phones. So far, I dig this phone. Its look and feel make me think it’s the latest standard bearer of the Android army. The size feels great in hand and the weight indicates it’s a quality piece. It’s quite attractive. Stay tuned for the full review as I put this little device through its paces complete with comparisons to other quick messaging devices and even smartphones. Product page: [AT&T] Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Mobile AT&T may be purchasing T-Mobile, however it seems that things are going to remain largely the same for current T-Mobile customers. In other words, your current phone, plan and billing are all going to remain the same. And on top of that, there is still no T-Mobile iPhone. In fact, T-Mobile will “remain a separate company and continue to operate independently.” Well, they will remain that way for at least 12 months which is when the regulatory approvals are expected to come. That said, T-Mobile did offer up a nice FAQ for current customers will questions. Via [T-Mobile] Will my service change?
There is no change in your service and we remain committed to ensuring you have the best experience possible experience using your T-Mobile USA products and services.
Will I now be billed by AT&T?
No, your billing remains exactly the same. T-Mobile USA continues to operate as an independent company. As always, you would receive advance notice to any changes to your services.
Why is T-Mobile USA doing this?
Bringing together these two world-class businesses will create significant benefits for customers. The merger will ensure the deployment of a robust 4G LTE network to 95% of the U.S. population, something neither company would achieve on its own. Also, because of our compatible networks and spectrum, the customers of T-Mobile USA and AT&T will experience improved voice and data service almost immediately after the networks are integrated.
Will T-Mobile USA's quality be reduced?
No. In fact, the combination of AT&T and T-Mobile USA will offer an even stronger service to customers. Until the acquisition is closed, we will work hard to maintain our position as the value leader with America's largest 4G network.
If the acquisition closes, will I still be able to use my T-Mobile USA phone?
Yes. Your T-Mobile USA device will operate the same in the future as it does today.
Should I wait to sign-up with T-Mobile USA or upgrade my phone?
No, T-Mobile USA offers the latest wireless devices that are affordable on America's Largest 4G Network and the combination of AT&T and T-Mobile USA will mean even stronger service for our customers. Now is a great time to be a T-Mobile customer.
Is T-Mobile USA getting the iPhone?
T-Mobile USA remains an independent company. The acquisition is expected to be completed in approximately 12 months. We do not offer the iPhone. We offer cutting edge devices like the Samsung Galaxy S 4G and coming soon our new Sidekick 4G.
Will my rate plan change because of the acquisition?
We will honor all contracted plans that are entered into before the change of ownership.
Where can I express my opinion on this?
T-Mobile customers can utilize the company’s online Forums.
Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile 
There have been many reactions to the news that AT&T plans to pick up T-Mobile USA assets. Many tech pundits, like Om Malik, see the carrier combination as a bad thing that will stifle innovation and be a bad thing for consumers. CWA, a union for T-Mobile workers is thrilled for both US and German interests and believes it is a good deal. CWA and ver.di, the largest union in Germany, have partnered to support T-Mobile workers in the U.S., and the global union movement has been a strong supporter of this effort. CWA and ver.di formed a joint union – TU – that represents T-Mobile workers on both sides of the Atlantic. Hundreds of TU members in the U.S. will welcome this news since of all the possible partners, AT&T will mean better employment security and a management record of full neutrality toward union membership and a bargaining voice. For T-Mobile USA workers who want a voice in their workplace, this acquisition can provide a fresh start with T-Mobile management. Some 42,000 ATT mobility employees are union represented.
CWA goes as far to say this buyout is just what President Obama ordered in his State of the Union address when he called for stepping up efforts to bring the U.S. back to global parity as a key stimulus for economic development. While that may be a stretch, it’s clear the union is excited about the changes coming. Malik, in his piece, stresses everyone is losing in this deal. From consumers to handset makers, to Sprint, to network equipment makers, to Google. Malik argues the merger will reduce choice in the marketplace, from which many affected players will come out worse. While Malik makes some valid points, I suspect the net effect is being overblown. T-Mobile just didn’t have the resources in the US to become a major player and from the tone of the arguments made by the union, it looks like the writing was on the wall for T-Mobile to either pull out of the market or find a suitor. Find a suitor is a much better result for T-Mobile and ultimately for T-Mobile customers who won’t see a gap in service. Read: [Business Wire] Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellphones, Cellular Providers, Smartphones The first Windows Phone 7 to launch on Sprint, the HTC Arrive, is now officially available for purchase through Sprint and Amazon. Sprint is currently selling the HTC Arrive for $199 on a two year contract after a $100 mail-in-rebate, but you can purchase the high-end WP7 device through Amazon Wireless for the inexpensive price of $50 on a two year agreement. Unless you have some irrational fear of purchasing cell phones through third party retailers, there really is no advantage in purchasing the HTC Arrive from Sprint, especially when Amazon Wireless is undercutting the carrier by a whopping $150. Check it out [Sprint] and [Amazon] Full Story » | Written by Natesh Sood for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Smartphones, Gadgets / Other, GPS/Navigation 
TeleNav announced their latest app for Verizon Android phones, Navigation by TeleNav. The application is free and delivers the finer GPS navigation feartures like voice navigation, 3D imagery, route options and a 22 million points of interest database. A paid version is also for sale on the Android market, on special until the end of March which includes traffic alerts,lane assist, speed and traffic camera alerts and a special functionality for commuters allowing them to be kept abreast of commute route problems throughout the day. TeleNav powers many of the carriers own branded GPS navigation solutions such as AT&T’s Navigator. Traditionally, carriers charge $9.99 per month for the service but in breaking with tradition, Verizon Android users can take advantage of a new path for TeleNav a free version and the paid traffic updated version. It’s doubtful TeleNav will offer similar plans on other carriers as we suspect they don’t want to compete with their carrier customers. Navigation by TeleNav features the latest advances the company has made in GPS navigation. Even the iPhone has yet to get some of the features in this version such as the route options, allowing drivers to select a route rather than just being offered one. Check out this video:  Read: [TeleNav] Full Story » | Written by JG Mason for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 FROM GAMERTELL - Haven’t caught all of the Gamertell news this week? Here's your chance to catch up on this week’s top 10 articles! BioWare employee accused of manipulating Dragon Age 2 Metacritic scores” It’s never pleasant to see something like this happen. Apparently a BioWare employee has been caught red-handed reviewing the… MORE » Full Story » | Written by NEWS for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Mobile Not long ago there were rumors of a possible merge between T-Mobile and Sprint which didn’t make much sense. Today’s deal make much more sense: AT&T has bought T-Mobile USA from Deutsche Telekom. Unlike the rumored T-Mobile/Sprint merger, AT&T and T-Mobile actually use similar technology, albeit it on different frequencies. The move will see AT&T expanding it’s network much faster than if it decided to invest $39 billion in new cell towers. Not sure how it will help users that want better 3G coverage, though. It also depends on how quickly the deal is approved by government agencies. As part of the purchase, AT&T promises to roll out LTE to reach 95 percent of US customers. The promise is to cover 46.5 million more Americans than originally planned. There is no date mentioned in the release, however. AT&T also claims to pour another $8 billion into it’s infrastructure thanks to the deal. Not sure how much was originally planned, but 48 billion should surely help. Assuming there are no issues with the purchase, it should be interesting to see how AT&T handles the different spectrums it would now be using. It can’t simply dump the current T-Mobile spectrums for at least a few years since people are still using them. Also, T-Mobile for many has been the only choice for GSM phones without going to AT&T. Many T-Mobile customers I know chose the company over AT&T because of AT&T’s lackluster performance. Will this deal do anything to help that? Maybe, but it’s doubtful. Read [BusinessWire] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Cellular Providers, Smartphones, Mobile It looks like the Sprint website has revealed (and later pulled back) some details on the upcoming Nexus S 4G smartphone. Anyway, while we are still waiting on the official announcement to come from Sprint so we can learn the release and pricing information, we now know that the handset will come as a “full integrated Google Voice” handset. And while other Android devices have nice tight Google Voice integration this one seems like it will be taken further as it was noted as being the “first” to be fully integrated. Otherwise, the Nexus S 4G will also be packing Gingerbread and have support for both 4G and 3G speeds. Via [Sprint] and [Engadget] Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Smartphones, Mobile Mr. Blurrycam has returned with a single image of the yet-to-be-photographed HTC Pyramid smartphone sitting alongside the HTC Desire HD. Sadly though, this leak comes only in the form of a single image. And a single image of the back of the handset. Given that, we can only see a few details such as the camera lens, dual LED flash and the sporty looking silver stripe that runs diagonal across the backside. But before anyone gets super disappointed in this leak, we must remind you that CTIA kicks off this week and we should be seeing some more of the Pyramid soon enough. Via [Techblog.gr] and [Engadget] Full Story » | Written by Robert Nelson for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 Section: Communications, Smartphones, Mobile, Computers, Software / Applications Amazon might be gearing up to launch it’s Appstore on Tuesday, March 22. According to a trusted source from Wired the store is set to launch this week, allowing users to buy apps from Amazon’s website and the app itself. The Amazon Appstore will only be available through Amazon.com, as Google doesn’t allow for third-party app stores in the Android Market. But, as mentioned, users won’t have to use the Appstore app to buy from Amazon, they can buy apps right from Amazon’s website. The web store should look like the image above which was taken while the app store was open for a brief period of time this past week. What makes Amazon’s Appstore interesting is that it’s taken the Apple model to Android. Unlike the Android Market, apps aren’t guaranteed to get into the Amazon Appstore. On top of that, apps in the Amazon Appstore can’t really acknowledge the Android Market. Links to other apps must link to the Appstore version of those apps. Presumably it’s to make for a more closed system, and so Amazon get’s the 30 percent off the top of the app sales, rather than giving more money to Google. When the Amazon Appstore launches, whether it be on Tuesday or some other time, it will cause a bit of a problem for some AT&T Android users. Google gives the option to carriers to prevent users from installing third-party apps outside of the Market. AT&T has had no problem taking that feature away. So, AT&T users who want Angry Birds Rio, or just want a more curated app-buying environment might be forced to root their phones for that privilege. Being open certainly is wonderful. Read [Wired] via [Electronista] Full Story » | Written by Shawn Ingram for Gadgetell. | Comment on this Article »
 More Recent Articles | 
No comments:
Post a Comment