Gadget News Boxs: May 2012

Sony Xperia go: Elegant and powerful

Smartphones are getting faster, more noble and therefore more expensive. This in turn means that some treat it like a raw egg, so it also nothing gets. Active athletes such as surfers and downhill bikers, however, that a problem, because there may just be that the cell phone abbekommt some water or dirt. Where others fail, the new Xperia go but remain robust and offer the full smartphone experience.

The concept is not new, because in the last year we introduced the Sony Ericsson Xperia active before that looked somewhat clunky and unwieldy. The new Xperia go is waterproof and dustproof to IP67 and can operate it with wet fingers - a point where many others fail already. In contrast to the older but it works Xperia active as fancy as the other members of the new Xperia series.

On the technical side it is on a 3.5-inch display with reality only 480 x 320 pixels, a 5 megapixel camera that can also be recorded with the 720p video, and a 1 GHz dual-core processor. Internal 8 GB are already installed memory, alternatively, this can be expanded via microSD card up to 32GB. The battery has a capacity of 1,305 mAh, the phone weighs 110 grams and as the operating system continues to be Android 2.3 Gingerbread is used. But: One update to Android 4.0 is promised.

source: sony

But no more patch for Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning

Actually, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning a successful single-player RPG, unfortunately, the sales are limited. Even if the game has a few bugs and ansich an extensive game experience offers a patch for all platforms was planned. For this there will unfortunately no longer, as the development studio is in big problems.

By unfavorable conditions, to which Ian Frazier probably should not go into detail, the development of the patch was pushed further and further. Finally, it gave the green light, at least for a patch of the PC version. But recently, it also came in the form of the cancellation to the insolvency of the developer studio "Studio 38" and the associated team of "Big Huge Games."

Were planned in addition to other small bug fixes, two new lower difficulty levels and new camera options. Even though the team would have liked to enjoy the passionate community with at least one large patch came the bust them before, and now Ian Frazier sees it as very improbable that the above patch can be completed, "should not take a miracle" what one should not speculate more.

In his forum post is lead designer Ian Frazier adopted by all the Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning fans and thanks again for your support.

Source: Forum Amalur.com

Apple vs. Samsung: failed peace talks

For some time, the two smartphone makers Samsung and Apple at war because of patent infringement in court. The criticism of Apple is always the same here: Samsung is said to be the design of Apple's iDevices like the iPhone and iPad have copied, for example, the Galaxy Tab 10.1. But both competitors have chosen to settle out of court and met recently at a hearing. The aim was to find a peaceful solution, while more favorable.

The two CEOs Tim Cook and Choi Gee-Sung, who met last Monday and Tuesday in San Francisco to the patent dispute over the design of products to find and settle out of court settlement. At the same time Apple was accused of failing to pay royalties for a patented wireless technology. The conversation was moderated by a judge and was beaten a total of seventeen hours - to no avail.

Both sides had apparently too different viewpoints and goals to come to a common denominator. Tim Cook even declared some time ago that he would prefer to settle out of court. On 27 June should go to the patent dispute in the next round and then could be presented first results.

Source: MacRumors

Lenovo's IdeaCentre A720 now available

Lenovo makes this year its muscles in the industry, announced recently in comparison to last year sales growth of around 54 percent. A matching is now the recently presented at CES All-In-One PC IdeaCentre A720 with a touch of a special kind

The IdeaCentre A720 is a 27 inch high all-in-one PC with a multi-touch screen. This recognizes touches to up to ten locations simultaneously. This will show you new ways to completely Lenovo desktop PCs. The silver case with black screen is reminiscent of the equally sized competitors from Apple, the iMac. Under the hood is an Intel Core i7-3610QM, based on the Ivy Bridge technology. Furthermore, 8 GB of DDR3 RAM and a 1TB hard drive on board

The only upgrade is in the TV tuner can be made. Lenovo offers this for around $ 100 more on an integrated TV tuner, for $ 250 more for an additional even with a 64 GB SSD images. Thus, the A720 is not only suitable as a desktop PC, but also as a multimedia center for slightly smaller rooms.

Lenovo had planned the A720 priced at around 1,300 U.S. dollars to be set. This may be the manufacturer and shall comply with nowhere near the price to $ 1,849. Whether a free update is included on the upcoming Windows 8, the manufacturer was not.

Source: The Verge

Toshiba shows AT300 Tablet PC with Tegra 3

The Japanese electronics giant Toshiba notebook is already represented in almost every segment and aims it still further from the tablet market. Here it is now expecting the announcement after a lavishly-equipped tablet PC with nVidia's newest system-on-a-chip, the Tegra third

The new tablet is named AT300 is equipped with a Tegra 3 quad-core processor, which is backed by a 1 GB of RAM. The multi-touch screen is 10.1 inches tall and covered with scratch-resistant Gorilla glass. The entire device is 8.8 millimeters and be very thin with 590 grams yet to a true lightweight among the tablets. The new iPad from Apple weighs in WiFi + Cellular release about 70 grams more.

In addition, the AT300 is equipped with a 5-megapixel camera and a webcam. The internal memory is 16 GB in size and may use a SD card slot can be extended to another 32 GB. The grand finale, there's the running time: With Android 4.0 will loose the AT300 offers 10 hours of operation.

The Toshiba AT300 has been announced for summer 2012. Toshiba does not name a price yet.

Source: Engadget

Untethered Jailbreak 5.1.1 released for IOS

Long did the jailbreak community to wait for a jailbreak the latest IOS version 5.1.1 and now it's finally happened: The Chronic Dev Team and the iPhone Dev Team have released the tool Greenpois0n Absinthe version 2.0 and with a surprise bulging compatibility list and the fact that he is untethered and the iDevice no computer needed to reboot.

Absinthe Greenpois0n 2.0 supports all currently available iDevices except the so-called iPad 2.4 - an iPad 2 with a 32 nm-made A5 processor. This is offered in parallel iPad iPad next to the current third generation and to a score of up to 20% longer battery life. After the jailbreak is Cydia Store available, which allows you to install non-Apple approved tweaks and tools.

Before a jailbreak iDevice should be played with a fresh version of the IOS 5.1.1. The jailbreak itself is done with one click, for which the device must be connected to the computer. The connection may be interrupted during the jailbreak, under any circumstances, otherwise there is danger to the iDevice Bricken.

Absinthe Greenpois0n 2.0 is available now on the official website and can be done with Windows, and Mac OS X.

Source: Greenpois0n

Facebook with its own camera app for iOS

Are photo-apps for Apple's iOS is now a dime a dozen. And despite the recent shopping trip, at the ado Instragram Facebook for a billion dollars in the basket ended up surprised, despite the social network of buying a personal photo app, which is available from the App Store. However, there are still a lot to be observed here.

The app even shows indeed strong, but is equipped with some outstanding features. Thus, the Facebook photos of friends searched, new shot and edited and uploaded directly. Among other things, the user some filters are available, such as the sepia filter. Facebook friends can be accurately marked on the images and, if necessary, the image can not be resized.

Sections must first be made in compliance, because it seems that it is these complex functions on all major smartphones to provide. So far this is only the IOS of the iPhone to get compatible and only in the U.S. App Store.

When the camera to Facebook app in the App Store is German, was not announced yet. Even an iPad version should be planned.

Source: Engadget

Samsung Chromebox XE300 already available and unpacked

Initially, 2012 was shown at CES in Las Vegas Chromebox from Samsung. The Chromebox is a nettop with Google's own operating system for desktops, the Chrome OS. However, it was the hype that Google and Samsung are expected, remained rather small and the Chrome OS devices were more in the background. Now Samsung before coming to the developer conference Google I / O had to present the Chromebox. However, this was acquirable already a few hours ago and was delivered by mistake even to the first customers.

The online shop of Tiger Direct for a short time had inadvertently offered the Chromebox and process orders, which were then confirmed. To make the complete breakdown, the first units were delivered to customers, although the Samsung delivered specifically to the developers conference, said. The Chromebox, however, was already taken out of the range and for the time being no further orders are possible. First unboxing videos are already available.

The XE300 is Chromebox it in two different models. One comes with an Intel Celeron 1.9GHz twice with B840 and Intel HD 3000 Graphics. The larger version comes with an Intel Core i5 processor. Both systems come with 4 GB of RAM and a 16 GB SSD. Who does not have enough space that can store more data on Google's servers in the cloud. To use the Chromebox may have a permanent Internet connection is required.

Furthermore, the Chromebox comes with six USB 2.0 ports, two audio ports, a DVI-I, and two DiplayPort ports. For the internet connection can the Gigabit Ethernet port or Wi-Fi module with 802.11 b / g / n support is used.

For about $ 330 to the Samsung Chromebox XE300 be available. The sale will begin after the developer conference, Google I / O. What are the anticipated consequences of Tiger Direct because of the earlier sale must, however, is still unclear.

Source: Engadget

Galaxy grade 10.1: change to higher chip set?

Again, it is now three months since we were the first time, the Galaxy Score 1.10 hold in our hands, but a launch is still not in sight. Instead, it turned out now through various benchmark results that Samsung apparently playing with the idea to build in a much more potent SoC. At that time they wanted to make any solid information, but it is believed that originally a faster 1.4 GHz dual-core Exynos was used 4210th This has now changed presumably against the Exynos 4412 - Quad-Core, which is also found in the new Galaxy III.

Since the results in ES 2.0 Base Mark Taiji but still significantly higher than that of the Galaxy S III is believed that in addition a new graphics core has been integrated. The smartphone uses its SoC currently in Mali 400MP GPU benchmark results allow us to imagine, however, that it could be explained by the first field test of Mali GPU-604T, which up to five times should be stronger.

Even if the biggest chip on the market of Apple ARM A5X currently Samsung so it should be possible to outdo them, at least in terms of graphics power and efficiency. In addition, the so-called S-Pen can now be stored directly in the housing should, so as not to lose.
Source: Nordic Hardware

Rumors about iPhone 5 with 3.9-inch display

Apple is currently testing several prototypes and iPhone 9to5mac.com claims to have heard from an independent source, that some of these iPhones are equipped with a brand new display. Was the first really big change of the display of the original iPhone when changing it to the fourth generation of the retina display 640x960. The screen always measured 3.5 inches diagonally and had a 3:2 format. All this will change with the new iPhone. Two prototypes with a larger display to listen to the name iPhone 5.1 (code name N41AP) and 5.2 (code name N42AP). These smartphones are currently located in the hands of employees, but not in a final package.

The new screen will measure a diagonal of 3.95 inches and have a resolution of 640x1136 pixels. The display will thereby be increased in height only and remain the usual 1.95 inches wide. The new resolution would have the new iPhone almost a 16:9 format and could therefore represent movies and videos in this format better in full screen. The rumors also include changes in the new IOS software 6: The new screen can display with the extra pixels more information. Perhaps more could be represented as icons in the current iPhone. The prototypes were also equipped with a dock connector smaller than before and the normal home button. What exactly is tuned to the rumors, time will tell as always, the future and Apple Keynote.

Source: 9to5mac.com

NHL 13: EA promises many new features

Hockey games enjoy games and off the American market, more and more popular - so in this country. Now the publisher EA and the EA Sports sublabel own words, according to the major features of EA Sports NHL has announced 13th Exact gameplay features, improved AI and more individual freedom for the player from 13 to September 2012 to ensure good sales.

EA Sports has also announced a number of features and presented, in part, remind them of what has been recently confirmed for the next FIFA title, but see for yourself

The new True skating performance will revolutionize the skating NHL 13th For the first time the movement in an NHL game from EA will be based on real physics. To visualize this more realistic context appropriately over 1000 new animations have been introduced into the game. Explosive sprints, realistic speed limits and the individual athletes on the ice as well as the already known skill stick will make navigating in NHL 13 on a modern and realistic level.Explosive sprints, realistic speed limits and the individual athletes on the ice as well as the already known skill stick will make navigating in NHL 13 on a modern and realistic level.

Behind the headline 'EA Sports hockey IQ "is a new and innovative, according to EA and AI system. While the field players have been paid only to their immediate environment and the goalkeeper only to the player with the puck, they are now focused attention to all the athletes on the ice. This is smarter faster, and (again, again emphasizing the EA often called keywords) realistic decisions, the computer-controlled players perform.

This is smarter faster, and (again, again emphasizing the EA often called keywords) realistic decisions, the computer-controlled players perform.

Also for multiplayer games NHL 13 has some new features on board, so as Connected with GM a new fantasy league integrated into the game that allows the interaction with friends. This new mode is based on the Be a GM mode is one of the most popular so far off-line modes of the series. Own leagues with 30 teams played in this mode, with and against friends. This is the game mode for the casual player, yet easily accessible game enough depth for core gamers included. The tasks of the players include, among others, the training and management of your team. A mobile phone makes it even take control of your team on the road.

A mobile phone makes it even take control of your team on the road.

Moments NHL Live is aimed primarily to die-hard hockey fans, this feature allows you to reenact some of the most exciting moments of the sport. Initially the game with the most exciting moments of the NHL season 2011/2012 will be delivered, other scenarios are provided in the course of the season 2012/2013.

Initially the game with the most exciting moments of the NHL season 2011/2012 will be delivered, other scenarios are provided in the course of the season 2012/2013.

For fans and collectors, EA also one that is now mandatory, Special Edition. The NHL Stanley Cup 13 Collector's Edition includes in addition to the main game including an exclusive Stanley Cup box embossed with the image, three Ultimate Team pack with five randomly selected cards of the Western and Eastern Conference champions. Furthermore, GT-CCM boost included for the Be a Pro and EA Sports Hockey League can be used. The conclusion is a Gold Jumbo Hockey Ultimate Team Pack with 22 randomly selected cards, including an exclusive Wayne Gretzky hockey card as well as Ultimate Team Legend of three other rare cards. Anyone who receives this special edition pre-ordered one-time 10% discount on purchases at NHL Official Store.

Source: EA

Windows 8 will be released in October

Windows 8 - Work on the operating system will be completed in the summer, according to insiders. The market launch both devices with Intel, and come with ARM chips in the sale.

In October, the new version of Windows with the new Metro surface in the final version on the market. Bloomberg reports that according to relevant information from insiders who are familiar with the matter.

At the launch both devices with chips from Intel, are offered as well as ARM. This is Microsoft's promise of what the new Windows will now support both standards. The selection of devices with ARM processor will be small, however. The aim is to start less than five ARM devices come to market, in addition to more than 40 models with Intel chips. This is due to very strict quality controls carried out by the software giant in the ARM devices.

With a launch in October aimed at Microsoft on the profitable Christmas season. "If they miss the September-October time frame, they can no longer deliver in 2012" according to a Gartner analyst on Bloomberg. Microsoft wants to create with the new Windows, which will also allow the convenient use of tablets, a new competitor to Apple's iPad.

iPhone 5 probably has a larger display and new design

iPhone 5 The rumors again quite strong, especially with regard to a new iPhone. As you will now have learned from several sources, the new iPhone 5, because if it might be called that, come with a larger screen and therefore a new design. Since 2007, the design has the iPhone changed only minimally, but this should now be different. A completely new concept is expected. Even the late, former CEO Steve Jobs is still actively have worked with it.

Above all, however, increase the display to 4 inches. Products offered by the competition but even with up to 5.3 inches. Whether the housing also increases or stays the same, can be estimated only. At least in terms of area a 4 inch screen would fit in the current case. Sure is also not yet know who designed the display. LG Display, Sharp and Japan display here is the question. Production start is scheduled for June this year, but the planning began even before the release of the iPhone 4S. If these rumors prove true, that would be only an intermediate 4S was to bridge the time wisely.

The iPhone 5 may, according to the information presented in October 2012. First pictures and technical details but we will probably get even at the upcoming WWDC in June to see or learn.

Source: maclife.de

Samsung Galaxy S3 - Over 9 million pre-orders

In addition to Apple's annual update of the iPhone was probably usually expect no other smartphone for as long as the Galaxy S III of the Korean manufacturer Samsung. In eleven days it does, then it appears in this country and the number of pre-orders even exceeds the expectations of Samsung.

While there are no official figures yet from Samsung, however, told the news agency "Reuters" that the new top smartphone from Samsung about nine million copies pre-ordered. Alone with its predecessor, the Galaxy II, Samsung managed about two million copies within two months of the man or woman to bring. Apple announced the other hand, after 24 hours pre-ordered about a million units and over a weekend more than four million units sold.

So far, no end in sight, because so far, the U.S. remains excluded from publication because it is still unclear whether there will appear an LTE version with dual-core processor instead of the regular Galaxy III. Thus, may soon be gathered strong pre-orders in the U.S..

source: Engadget

Second looks at the Samsung Galaxy W i8150 - After the price drop

The Samsung Galaxy W i8150 was released in the Philippines in November 2011. It was a very interesting offering, but its Php16,000 price bumped head to head with LG's Optimus Black, which had a larger display, and priced below it was Sony Ericsson's Neo V. We noticed that the price of the Galaxy W has dropped to Php11,400 with an official Samsung warranty from one of the retailers who we use for price checks. This now places its price in parity with the similarly spec'ed Xperia Neo V.

Samsung Galaxy W i8150 quick specifications

Android 2.3. No official upgrade to Android 4.0 but value pack released with some ICS features.
3.7-inch WVGA (480 x 800) display
1.7 GB of user available storage expandable via MicroSD card slot
512 MB of RAM
1.4 GHz single core processor
Adreno 205 graphics
Qualcomm MSM8255 chipset
5 MP primary camera with a LED flash
VGA secondary camera
720p video capture
HSDPA 14.4 Mbps connectivity
1500 mAh battery

Hardware wise it is superior to the now similarly priced Xperia Neo V. It has more internal storage (1.7 GB v. 320 MB), and faster processor, and a slightly better camera. The case is 1.5 mm slimmer than the Neo V. Overall I prefer the way the Galaxy W rests in my hand and like its matte finnish over the glossy finnish of the Xperia Neo V.

The main advantage of the Xperia Neo V is that Sony released the official upgrade to Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich. The Galaxy W will not get upgraded to Ice Cream Sandwich, but Samsung has released a value pack, bringing some Ice Cream Sandwich features to Android.

Some user have reported their Neo V's running a bit slower with Ice Cream Sandwich on board with some apps and some WiFi issues. A slowdown is to be expected given that Ice Cream Sandwich requires a bit more in terms of resource than Gingerbread.

With the Neo V at Php11,500 and the Galaxy W at Php11,400, its a though choice. Better hardware or running the latest operating system.

HTC Sense is now Senseless

I have long been a fan of HTC's Sense interface. It modernized the Windows Mobile interface and brought useful additional functionality, through proprietary widgets and apps to enhancing the Android experience. But HTC has gone to far with its Sense user interface in the new HTC One X.

But yesterday I found out the latest version of HTC Sense limits reduces a basic functionality of Android 4.0. In order to accommodate its Sense interfaced it lobotomized the Android 4.0 operating system. Basically, instead of allowing full multi-tasking, only selected apps can run in the background. Even the web browser has to reload the last web page when brought used again even if you are running very few apps. You really have to watch theses videos to see how bad it is.

The Android experience is a fragmented one. With lower end devices, the experience is not always fluid. But when you buy HTC's latest device with its quad core processor and a gig of RAM, you should not expect pauses when switching between apps.

In response to the issue HTC responded to The Verge saying:

HTC is aware of some questions in the enthusiast community about how the HTC One X handles multitasking and memory management for background apps. We value the community's input and are always looking for ways to enhance customers' experience with our devices. That said, right now multitasking is operating normally according to our custom memory management specifications which balance core ICS features with a consistent HTC Sense experience.

HTC responds nonchalantly, as if it is only a small group of enthusiast will notice the issue. The enthusiast community will just replace the stock software with a custom ROM, and be done with it. This really affects the mainstream consumer more. How much this will affect Android Market apps remains to be seen. Still, this is a very unwelcome fragmentation of the Android platform.

A reader at The Verge, LTRaziel, commented:

So having to reload every app every single time is “normal” to them? What’s the point of having multi-tasking then?

I really cannot put it any better.

Adililyo commenting at Android Central wrote:

open maps, search for a place, get a text, switch to messaging to answer, switch back to maps, all your search results are gone and the app reloads.

another example, open email app, start to write lengthy reply to email, switch to calculator to figure out some numbers for said email response, switch back to email, YOUR ENTIRE MESSAGE IS GONE and the app reloads.

Mobilesyrup poignantly wrote:

More to the point, HTC changed the way that Android manages memory without informing the consumer

HTC should explain if how there new memory management is designed to work and not be satisfied with a saying "multitasking is operating normally according to our custom memory management specifications which balance core ICS features with a consistent HTC Sense experience".

From left to right. A HTC HD2 (Windows Mobile with HTC Sense), HTC Desire HD (Android 2.3 with HTC Sense), HTC Sensation XE (Android 4.0 with HTC Sense) and Samsung Galaxy Nexus (Android 4.0 vanilla). The Ice Cream Sandwich updated Sensation XE does seem to flush background programs faster than the Desire HD on Gingerbread. But nothing as drastic as demonstrated in the video above.

I am not a big advocate of Google taking control and limiting what manufacturers can do with their devices, but there have to be minimum standards. Buy a third party user interface should add to the functionality of the Android operating system, or if badly done be more clumsy, but should not disable or reduce basic Android functionality.

In the end, if HTC wanted to keep keep the Sense experience, how much would another 512 MB of RAM cost a manufacturer.

HTC One X breaks Android multi-tasking

One of the key features of Android is multi-tasking. ICS has improved that by placing a dedicated multi-tasking button and improving on the multi-tasking interface.

Unfortunately, HTC seems to have broken Android multi-tasking with the One X. HTC has implemented very aggressive memory management that once you switch to a different application, the previous application you are using is deleted from memory. The only apps that remain active in the background are HTC built in apps.

This is similar to the approach Apple's iOS and Windows Phone 7 takes with multi-taking. Only a few apps are allowed to multi-task in the background.

Android normally manages multi-tasking by allowing apps stay in memory. Apps idling in the background stored in the memory does not consume battery life. When there is too much running in the background, it flushest out the oldest apps from the memory leaving the more recent apps running. This allows the user to switch between previous launched applications without reloading them every time.

With the HTC One X is kills most apps when a new one is launched. This means when you go back to an old app, it has to launch it again. This process of killing apps and having to launch them from scratch consumes more battery life.

wrsdunkie posted two videos on YouTube which shows that HTC One X multi-tasking is pretty much non-existent.

As you can see in the video, previously loaded apps have to reload their data when the user goes back to them. I am a bit surprised this was not caught by the reviews.

HTC has responded that this is the way that multi-tasking is supposed to work on the HTC One X. So basically, it is not broken, it is a feature. I am wondering whether this is a HTC One X issue or a Sense issue, and if full Android multi-tasking is implemented on the HTC One S and the One V.

As a counterpoint, this may not be a bad thing. Once I left the Sentinel III game running in the background on my Android phone and only realized it when I was surprised to see the battery life meter on my phone drop drastically.

What it your take on this issue. Is limited multi-taking better than full multi-tasking?

Roccat Kone XTD, Lua Tri-Button und Power-Grid-App auf E3 und im Computex Juni

In June this year again starts the E3 in Los Angeles and Computex in Taiwan. Roccat is also like every year at the start and before this time is the true highlights. The quite some time now on the market, Kone [+] receives an update in the form of Kone XTD, should surpass everything. A 8200 dpi laser sensor and an improved software here represent only a small part of the whole dar. Roccat promises a timely publication date in early October 2012.

Brand new at Roccat but Lua is the Tri-button gaming mouse. This V-shaped mouse is suitable for both left-and right-handed and is in possession of a freely adjustable 2000 dpi sensor. The Lua will be available, even from the beginning of August. For more information, we will probably find the latest at E3 and Computex.

The special thing is well, but in March announced Smartphone App from Roccat this functionality it should be possible to directly touch screen on the mobile device or PC to control games. At the trade fairs is probably the first time tests can perform yourself, the app is currently in beta. After this publication does Roccat free to download.

Source: roccat.org

FIFA 13: EA announces first details

Fans of sports games in general, football fans in particular and all others who monitor the market for computer and video games are now used to it that every year a new FIFA game on the shelves. Now EA has commented on some features of the next part of the series. In particular, the artificial intelligence is to be further improved, thus ensuring even more authentic game situations.

The improvements to the artificial intelligence to affect a whole series of play areas. Starting with the better use of space in preparation of moves will also improve the analysis of the opponent. The pure fixation on the ball is replaced by the analysis of the entire player, allowing to run routes from players who are not in possession of the ball will be considered, which should lead to more realistic and better responses. Possible pass receiver should also move better, and thereby enable new attacking options.

The dribble is also elaborated further, EA talks about the "most complete and intuitive" dribble series. The soccer superstar Lionel Messi served as inspiration for the developers of the new "Complete Dribbling". Precise movements and full 360 ° freedom of movement to allow more creative, faster and therefore more realistic battles.

The ball control is developed, the times in which each player controls on the practice field the ball perfectly with FIFA 13 will be over. The pressure applied defensive pressure, the speed of the ball and the direction from which comes the ball will be in the future for the reception of the ball and therefore also the beginning of the control of the ball by a player is crucial.

The free kicks are to be improved in FIFA 13: During the offensive team will receive more deception and pass options to the defending team can make its free wall and place it on the field. The career mode is changed according to the wishes of fans and well developed. The online service EA SPORTS Football Club will also be changed and improved with many new features. With more than 500 officially licensed clubs, new game modes and many other improvements will FIFA 13 in the fall of 2012 for the PC, PlayStation 3 (with support for Move), the PlayStation Vita, the PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, all IOS devices , the Xbox 360 (with support for Kinect) and Nintnendo Wii.

Source: EA

Ergonomics Update for MMO Mouse Razer Naga now available

Razer's first Naga mouse appeared in 2009. Specifically for MMO games they scored with 12 configurable keys thumb. Previous tests prove absolutely that the Naga has a right to exist. Now, the manufacturer provides a greater ergonomics update.

By the manufacturer, there is now a matte coating in addition to three new sides to the width of the mouse or to individualize for each. A replacement should this not be a problem and quickly go on the stage. But that should not be anything. Also, the surface lived to an update in the form of a different button layout. Better accessibility was probably the main reason for this change. Thus, the mouse is now, for long gameplay, more comfortable in the hand, which is especially for MMO games have become an important criterion.

Whether Razer has changed other things, was currently not being disclosed. Was confirmed, however, that the interior steady for 2009-spec model. A 3,500 DPI laser sensor 3.5G and 1 ms response time set is standard, as well as a tracking speed of 200 IPS. Gamers should be as full again get their money and have fun playing in the digital world.

Source: razer.com

Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Carbon - Lenovo ThinkPad's the Ultrabook

Lenovo has unveiled several new ThinkPad laptops with the new Intel Ivy Bridge chips. The most interesting of the new offerings it the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Ultrabook. With a carbon fiber lid, and a magnesium allow case, Lenovo has brought ThinkPad grade manufacture to the Ultrabooks.

While I love Apple's MacBook Air, and have happily used one for near two years now, the all aluminum case which makes it look so attractive to many has been the biggest issue for me. It scratches easily, can get awfully cold when used in a cold environment which is uncomfortable to my wrists and, as another blogger found out, the lid can get misaligned in case of small accidents.

Still, a whole bevy of Ultrabook designs follows the all aluminum trend. The Dell XPS 13 Ultrabook with its magnesium palm rests and track pad corrects a flaw in the typical MacBook Air/Ultrabook design. Now we have the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Ultrabook, which looks like it might be the best designed Ultrabook to date.

Instead of the universal aluminum lid you get a carbon fiber lid. Carbon fiber is also use for the roll cage. The rest of the case is made from magnesium alloy. The whole chassis is coated in a fingerprint-resistant matte soft-touch rubber coating. Inside it a carbon fiber roll cage keeping the whole thing together. The end result, this 14-inch laptop is just 0.75-inches thick and weighs in at just three pound. Basically, it weighs as much as a 13.3-inch MacBook Air.

Actually, I am guessing that it wont be much bigger the a 13.3-inch MacBook Air given the thin bezel around the display.

The display is a high resolution 1600 x 900 pixels, and it had a backlit keyboard. For ports you get USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports, a Mini Display Port socket, a 3.5mm headphone jack, an SD card slot and a fingerprint reader. It will come with a selection of Intel Ivy Bridge processors.

The package sounds almost perfect, although I don't have details on the battery and the battery life, and I am guessing this will be a fairly expensive laptop. Still, it is number one on my want list. Expect to see the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon hitting shelves in two or three months.

NVIDIA highlights Tegra's graphics prowess with the Sonic 4: Episode II launch

NVIDIA's Tegra 3 quad core chipset has been having to take a lot of punches lately. Samsung Exynos 4 Quad and even Qualcomm's dual core S4 have been beating it in benchmarks. But if there is something NVIDIA knows a lot about, it is graphics, and graphics is not all about frame rates.

Sonic 4: Episode II on NVIDIA for Android Tegra devices officially launches today, and the company is using the launch to showcase the graphics prowess of its Tegra platform NVIDIA has published two sets of pictures to compare the newly released Sonic 4: Episode II game on Tegra and non Tegra devices.


Click on image to enlarge

Click on image to enlarge

Will this kind of graphics capability be enough to make you pick an HTC One X over the soon to be released Samsung Galaxy S III or a ASUS Transformer Prime over an Apple iPad? If you are a gamer at heart, I think it just might.

Photos from NVIDIA

Smart Communications offers the Apple iPhone 4 (8 GB) on pre-paid

Smart Communications is offering the Apple iPhone 4 on a pre-paid kit for Php29,000. This new version has its internal storage cut in half to just 8 GB.

We are not all excited about this offering. You can get the Smart Apple iPhone 4S for Php4,200 more, at Php33,200. For the additional 4.2K you get double the internal storage, twice the processing speed and the mediocre 5 MP camera on the iPhone 4 gets upgraded to the excellent 8 MP camera on the iPhone 4S. Another key advantage of the iPhone 4S as a camera phone is that it allows you to capture 1080p video, while the iPhone 4 only does 720p video. You also get a faster HSDPA radio, the iPhone 4 coming with a 7.2 Mbps unit, while the iPhone 4S has a faster 14.4 Mbps radio.

Basically, for a Php4,200 difference in price, we really would rather spend a bit more and get the iPhone 4S.

Looking around the market, you can get the HTC One X, unlocked, for as low as Php27,600. This gives you a large 4.7-inch 720p display, a quad core processor, 32 GB of internal storage, an excellent 8MP camera (1080P video) and fast 21.1 Mbps HSDPA connectivity.

For Php23,200 you can get 2011's Smartphone of the Year, the Samsung Galaxy S II which gives you a larger 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display, double the internal storage, user expandable storage, more twice the processing power, a much better camera, 1080p video, fast 21.1 Mbps HSDPA connectivity, and a user replaceable battery.

Basically, as nice a phone as the iPhone 4 is, well it really should be priced at less than 20K for the hardware it offers.

Alacatel Blaze OT 985N

Alcatel has launched a new dual sim Android smartphone in the Philippines, the Alacatel Blaze OT 985N.

Quick specifications:

Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3.5-inch HVGA (320 x 480) display
150 MB internal storage user expandable via MicroSD card to up to 32GB
256 MB of RAM
650 MHz ARM 11 single core processor
3D graphics accelerator
Media Tek chipset
5 MP primary camera with a LED flash
VGA secondary camera
HVGA video capture
HSDPA 7.2 Mbps connectivity
1300 mAh battery
Php7,999

The phones specifications are nearly identical similar to Alcatel's Blaze OT 918N. The Blaze 918N is available at 2K less, at Php5,999. So what do you get for additional 2K?

The Blaze 985N has a larger 3.5 inch display, a higher mega pixel primary camera and a front facing camera. A 3.5 inch display is a much more functional size than the 3.2 inch display on the Blaze 918N. The larger display makes the virtual keyboard easier to use and will make using apps and web browsing a better experience. If spending another 2K is okay with you, the Blaze 985N will give you a more rewarding user experience as against its 3.2 inch sibling.

Smart now offering 8 GB models of Apple's iPhone 4 and 3GS on postpaid plans

Smart Communications is offering an 8 GB model of the Apple iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS, both of which are free at Data Plan 2000. The offer is not too tempting since at Data Plan 2000 you can get the a iPhone 4S with 16 GB of internal storage, a much better camera and a faster dual core processor.

The iPhone 4 (8 GB) and iPhone 3GS (8 GB) would be more interesting to those looking for a lower monthly plan.

Data Plan 2000 (150 minutes of calls and 200 SMS to all networks, per month, and unlimited data access)

iPhone 4S (16 GB) - Php2,500 cash out
iPhone 4 (8 GB) - Free
iPhone 3GS (8 GB) - Free

Data Plan 1500 (60 minutes of calls and 120 SMS to all networks, per month, and unlimited data access)

iPhone 4S (16 GB) - Php12,500 cash out
iPhone 4 (8 GB) - Php8,000 cash out
iPhone 3GS (8 GB) - Php2,000 cash out

Data Plan 999

iPhone 4S (16 GB) - Not available. Available instead at iPhone Plan 999, for Php23,976 payable over 24 months.
iPhone 4 (8 GB) - Php20,000 cash out
iPhone 3GS (8 GB) - Php5,000 cash out

Okay, here is the confusing part. This is the first time we hear about a Unlimited Data Plan 999 so we do not know what that plan includes.

iPhone Plan 999 includes 100 minutes of calls and 40 SMS to all networks, and also comes with 250 MB of data, per month.

We will try to clarify this matter.

Smartphones in 2012 focus on power and efficiency

Each year brings the advent of new mobile phone technology. In January 2010 we saw the arrival of the Google Nexus One and 1 GHz processors, which is actual still enough processing power for smartphones. That year also saw WGVA displays (480 x 800) and Apple's "retina" resolution (640 x 960). The next year saw dual core processors, but except for those into gaming, this only marginally improves smartphone experience. The most notable improvement of smartphones in 2011 was the camera, with the Sony Xperia Arc, Samsung Galaxy S II and the Apple iPhone 4S being equipped with excellent camera's. This is nothing really new in the smartphone world, Nokia having released a series of phones with excellent camera's, the most recent being the Nokia N8, and Samsung Pixon released in 2008 having been a very competent camera phone. Still in the Android and iOS world, before 2011 camera's were mediocre.

Predictably 2012 brings us more power with the dual core Qualcomm Kraits getting more performance per core than any other previous platform and the quad core Tegra 3 and Exynos chipsets. What all there have in common is the integration of power saving technology together with larger batteries. 2012 also brings us larger displays. While we did see the 4.65-inch Google Galaxy Nexus, around 0.25-inches is occupied by the on screen buttons. The HTC One X and Samsung Galaxy S III combine larger 4.7 and 4.8 inch displays with dedicated buttons, effectively being another step larger then the Galaxy Nexus.

While the larger displays are the most apparent evolution this year, what is more amazing is that it is being done while improving battery life.

From 65 to 45 to 28. The HTC One S Qualcomm S4 chipset uses the 28 nanometer process.
In 2014 we expect to see chipsets built on the 20 nanometer process.

Comparing the best smartphones (so far) of 2012, with the best of 2011 yields some interesting results.

Screen size and battery

2012 models:

Galaxy S III: 4.8-inch (720p) Super AMOLED and 2100 mAh battery
HTC One X: 4.7-inch (720p) IPS2 LCD and 1800 mAh battery
HTC One S: 4.3-inch (qHD) Super AMOLED and 1650 mAh battery

2011 models:

Galaxy Nexus: 4.65-inches (720p) Super AMOLEDand 1750 mAh battery
Galaxy S II: 4.3-inches (WVGA) Super AMOLED and 1650 mAh battery
iPhone 4S: 3.5-inches (640 x 960) IPS LCD and 1432 mAh battery

Battery life test results from GSM Arena (Source 1 and source 2)

Talk time

Samsung Galaxy S III - 10:20

HTC One X - 9:57

HTC One S - 9:42

Samsung Galaxy S II - 8:35

Samsung Galaxy Nexus - 8:23

Apple iPhone 4S - 7:41

Web browsing

Apple iPhone 4S - 6:56

Samsung Galaxy S III - 5:17

Samsung Galaxy S II - 4:24

HTC One X - 4:18

HTC One S - 4:03

Samsung Galaxy Nexus - 3:01

Video playback

Samsung Galaxy S III - 10:1

HTC One S: 9:28

Apple iPhone 4S: 9:24

Samsung Galaxy S II : 8:00

Samsung Galaxy Nexus: 6:02
HTC One X - 5:45

We have highlighted the 2012 models in bold. If you look at it, from the 2011 models only the Apple iPhone 4S fares well in this comparison. While it place last in terms of talk time, it did well in web browsing and video playback tests, but this is really because of the small 3.5-inch display.

The Samsung Galaxy S II faired well in the web browsing test, but this can be attributed to it having the lowest resolution of any phone in the comparison.

Basically, the new power saving technology does wonder for talk time. Super AMOLED displays and the new chipsets also save a lot of power on video playback (the LCD display of the One X is the reason why it placed last here).

For web browsing, Super AMOLED displays are not the most power efficient. Still the Exynos Quad powered Galaxy S III beats the HTC One X by a fair margin. Looking at the three competing power saving technologies the Exynos Quad does seem to do best.

Chipset technology used

iPhone 4S, Galaxy S II, Galaxy Nexus - 45 nanometer process

One X (Nvidia Tegra 3) - 40 nanometer process, companion core

Galaxy S III (Samsung Exynos Quad) - 32 nanometer process, voltage scaling

One S (Qualcomm S4) - 28 nanometer process, voltage scaling

SMS use in the Philippines declined significantly in 2011

Phone Arena reported on the decline of SMS use because of the greater use of communications via Internet either via social networks and instant messengers, and one example cited was the Philippines.

The trend toward sending out fewer texts has been seen in other reports dealing with other countries. Cell phone users in the Philippines, which is one of the top texting countries, averaged 400 texts a month last year which was down from the average of 660 monthly texts sent in 2010. That report was released by independent mobile analyst Chetan Sharma who said the increasing use of Internet messaging services like Skype, iMessage and Google Voice was the reason for the declining use of text messaging in the country.

The decline in the number of text messages each Filipino sends every month is significant, I do not see SMS being replaced for communications when a quick reply is desired. While half of my contacts are listed in as contacts can be reached through Facebook, GTalk or Viber, few of them are actually on data plans so messages sent to them will not reach most of them for several hours until they log on to the Internet at a WiFi hot spot.

While the SMS cash cow may be shrinking, local carriers are making up for at least some of the losses in data plans.

Exynos Quad versus Tegra 3: Power efficiency

The Samsung Galaxy S III's quad core processor promises plenty of power. At the same time, the new Exynos chipset is built on Samsung's new 32 nanometer (nm) process and features dynamic voltage scaling.

The 32 nm should result in 20% power savings from older chipsets using a 45 nm process. Dynamic voltage scaling means that the quac core processor slows down and reduces power consumed when full power is not needed. Of course behind all this you have a large 2100 mAh battery.

Did Samsung deliver on its promise. GSM Arena has put the Galaxy S III through it battery life test, and studying the results is interesting.

The HTC One X has a Tegra 3 chipset, a quad core processor with a slow fifth companion core. In tasks requiring which do not require a lot of processing power the fifth core takes over and the powerful quad core processor goes to sleep.

Talk time:

Galaxy S III: 10 hours and 20 minutes
One X : 9 hours and 57 minutes

We are pretty sure that for making GSM voice calls, the One X uses the single 500 MHz core. Given that the Galaxy S III has a much larger battery 2100 mAh battery than the One X's 1800 mAh battery, it would seem that the Tegra 3 beats the Exyos Quad in terms of power efficiency in voice calls.

Web browsing:

Galaxy S III: 5 hours and 17 minutes
One X: 4 hours and 18 minutes

The Galaxy S III has a Super AMOLED display, which saves a lot of power when displaying black images, but usually consumes a lot of power in web browsing tests since most web pages are white. Both phones have similar size displays (the Galaxy S III being fractionally larger), so we would expect that HTC One X to do better in this test.

This is where you see the advantage of dynamic voltage scaling. The Galaxy S III would not need the full power of its quad core processor to do web browsing, so in this test it would be running them at less than full speed.

The 500 MHz fifth core of the Tegra 3 on the One X won't be enough to do this task, so it switches to the quad core running at full speed. Basically, it is a low power or full power option, and despite the One X's LCD being more power efficient in this test, the processor consumes so much juice, that it negates this advantage.

If you look at other Super AMOLED equipped phones in this test, you will appreciate how much power voltage scaling on the quad core Exynos saves.

Galaxy S III: 5 hours and 17 minutes
Galaxy Note: 3 hours and 35 minutes
Galaxy Nexus: 3 hours and 1 minute

Video playback:

Galaxy S III : 10 hours and 1 minute
One X : 5 hours and 45 minutes

Super AMOLED displays are efficient in video playback, so basically the result here is expected after looking at the web browsing tests.

Battery life benchmarks from GSM Arena: Source 1 and source 2.

Samsung Galaxy S III: Exynos 4 Quad delivers on its promise of efficiency

Samsung promised that the new Galaxy S III would have twice the power and 20% less battery consumption than the previous Galaxy S II. GSM Arena has put the Galaxy S III through the paces, and it looks like Samsung kept it promise.

Talk time:

Galaxy S III : 10 hours and 20 minutes
Galaxy S II : 8 hours and 35 minutes

Web browsing:

Galaxy S III : 5 hours and 17 minutes
Galaxy S II : 4 hours and 24 minutes

Video playback:

Galaxy S III : 10 hours and 1 minute
Galaxy S II : 8 hours

When the Apple iPad's retina display is not so magical

When Apple released the new iPad and its 1536 x 2048 pixel resolution display we did notice that while it had double the graphics power and RAM of the iPad 2 and its 768 x 1024, it had to push out four times as many pixels. In other words, in terms of graphics power, the iPad 2 has more spare resources than the new third generation iPad. Both have the same processing power.

Gameloft's N.O.V.A. 3 displays why this could be a problem. CNET reports that "Apple iPad 2 users ended up with a better-looking version of Gameloft's latest first-person shooter than those running the game on third-generation iPad hardware."

In order to accommodate the high resolution graphics Gameloft disabled some of the graphical effects in the iPad 3 version including the depth-of-field effect that selectively blurs parts of the screen, as lighting and particle effects.

N.O.V.A. 3 on a iPad 2. Photo credit NeoGaf Forums

N.O.V.A. 3 on a iPad 3. Photo credit NeoGaf Forums

You will see similar issues when web browsing. The iPad 3 will display clear text beside not so clear pictures. Web site designers can update the pictures on their website so it looks better on full HD and higher resolution screens. This comes with a trade-off, bigger files and longer download times.

Basically, ultra high resolution screens are cool, but for the iPad 3 it does seem like it needs a new generation of graphics processor and faster (and not data capped) Internet to take full advantage of it.

The Nexus after the Galaxy

Trying to predict what the next version of the iPhone will be like is a pure guessing game, so I won't bother. There are two things which look pretty certain for the next iPhone. It's processor will be built from the new 32 nanometer process, or we might even see it shrunk to a smaller die size making the chipset more power efficient. It will have LTE, hopefully a on chip solution like that on the Qualcomm S4 and not a separate chip like the new iPad (unofficially the iPad 3).

The Google Nexus phone is a more predictable animal. The first Google Nexus phone, the HTC manufactured Nexus One was a hardware tour de force. But since than the Google Nexus phone has served as a baseline of what ideally are the minimum specifications of Android phone which will serve a user well for the Next two years as well as introducing new "standard" features.

The Google Nexus S is a good example of this. It was basically a Samsung Galaxy S with a flash for the camera. If you bought one in 2011, you are now running ICS and it should keep you happy enough so that you can skip the Galaxy Nexus and wait for the next Nexus phone. So what will the next Nexus phone come with.

Display size (4.5 to 4.8 inches). The Nexus phone started with a 3.7 inch display in 2010, than moved to 4 inch display and the latest version has a 4.65 in display. I think this is about as big as it gets. We might see it grow to 4.7 or 4.8 inches, but that is about it. I would not be surprise it it shrank to 4.5 inches to make it an overall handier package either. So I am expecting a 4.5 to 4.8 inch for the next Nexus phone and for all succeeding models after that.

Display resolution (720p - 720 x 1280 pixels). With the Galaxy Nexus, the Google Neuxs phone has moved from WVGA displays to a 720p HD display. It does not make sense to have a higher resolution display on a 4.5 to 4.8 inch screen. This display already produces 300 pixels or more per inch, and people some to concede that the human eye cannot distinguish more pixels than that.

Display type (AMOLED or IPS2). So far, all the Google Nexus phones have used AMOLED or Super AMOLED displays, with a variant of the Nexus S being offered with a standard LCD display.

We have already seen Samsung Super AMOLED Plus displays on 4.3 to 4.5 inch WVGA (480 x 800) displays and on a 7.7-inch 720p HD display. It looks like a matter of time before we see a 4+ inch Super AMOLED Plus display on a phone. Maybe the next Nexus phone may feature this display.

While there is nothing wrong with 720p Super AMOLED displays, pundits question it being a true HD display. I think this is something Google would like to avoid in their next release. If Samsung cannot come up with a Super AMOLED Plus display at a reasonable cost for this phone, there are alternatives.

IPS LCD displays have improved. The new IPS display on the HTC One X has much more vibrant colors than the older unit on the iPhone and iPhone 4S, which cuts down on the advantage of the Super AMOLED display. This is a viable alternative to a Super AMOLED display.

In terms of power consumption Super AMOLED displays use less power when rendering black, but more power when rendering white backgrounds. This is why Super AMOLED equipped phones do not do so well on web browsing battery life tests.

I think this one is a toss up.

Soft keys (Yes). Not many manufacturers have followed the Galaxy Nexus design of soft keys, which include the biggest Android phone manufacturers. Still I think the next Nexus phone will continue to use soft keys mainly because Android tablets use soft keys and and Android 4.0 is intended to help unify tablet and smartphone app development.

RAM (1 GB). LG has a phone with 2 GB of RAM, while most top end Android phone still use 1 GB. I do not see Google moving to more than 1 GB this year as in general Google Nexus phones are not designed to have the highest specifications in the market, but basically to set a baseline for what specifications would be enough to run the next version of Android for 2013 and 2014.

Storage (32 GB). MicroSD card support for Android phones is on the way out. It was not present in the Google Nexus S and the Google Galaxy Nexus, and it is no coming back. The Nexus S and Galaxy Nexus both came with 16 GB of storage, so the next Google Nexus phone will have at least 16 GB of storage. The Sony Xperia S and the HTC One X now offer 32 GB as the minimum storage, for the non-carrier specific models at least, and it would seem as apps will not be made to support a 720p resolution rather than a WVGA resolution, more space would be needed more and more. In the end it comes down to cost. I expect the next Google Nexus phone to come with 32 GB of internal storage, unless the cost of flash storage will significantly increase the price of the phone.

Chipset (Qualcomm S4). Unless Nvidia, Samsung or Texas instruments can get a system on chip LTE modem on their chipset soon, it looks like MSM8960 Qualcomm's S4 (Snapdragon) is the clear choice. It allows Google to build LTE phones and non-LTE phones with the same chipset. The dual core Kraits on the Qualcomm S4 does well against Nvidia's and Samsung quad core solutions, lagging behind only in graphics because of the Adreno 225 graphics. But Adreno 225 is just a stop gap solution, and the Adreno 320 graphics on the a MSM8960 chipset, called the MSM8960 Pro should be ready in time to make it unto the next Nexus phone.

Camera (8 MP). Google Nexus phones have come with 5 MP cameras, and that was a big issue with the Galaxy Nexus. While the 5 MP on the Galaxy Nexus is a pretty good shooter, an 8 MP unit will save Google a lot of grief.

Battery (2000+ mAh). Several phones with batteries exceeding 2000 mAh have already appeared in the market, and battery size is a strong marketing tool. I would expect at least a 2000 mAh unit on the next Nexus phone.

Predicted specifications:

4.65-inch Super AMOLED Plus or IPS2 LCD display (720 x 1280 pixel resolution)
1 GB of RAM
32 GB of internal storage, not expandable
1.5 to 1.7 GHz dual core Krait processor (28 nanometer)
Qualcomm MSM 8960 Pro chpset
Adreno 320 graphics
8 MP primary camera
1.3 to 2 MP secondary camera
1080p video
HSDPA+ 21.1 Mbps with LTE models for selected countries
2000 mAh battery

Update on Smart's Alway On Plans and Globe volume data plans

Smart has reduced the pricing of its Alway On volume data plans with separate packages for mobile broadband and prepaid.

Always On for mobile broadband (Modems and tablets)

Always on for prepaid sims (smartphones and tablets)

One example of the lower rates is the 1 GB data plan which used to cost Php750. It is now is down to Php499. My wife and I are both on unlimited data plans which are used only for our phones. We don't use our phones as modems for laptops. With this kind of use we stay under 1 GB every month and we make no effort to limit our use. Always On 499 looks like a really good deal.

Unfortunately, there appears to be no more Always On Plans for postpaid subscribers.

Globe offers similar plans.

Globe PowerSurf for postpaid also allows the user to choose between data volume or time based used.

The Samsung i9300 Galaxy S III is coming to Globe Telecom

Samsung massive 4.8 inch Galaxy S III is coming to Globe Telecom.

This means both Smart and Globe will be carrying Samsung latest smartphone. It looks like both Smart and Globe will start taking pre-orders in two weeks time.

The Samsung i9300 Galaxy S III is coming to Smart Communictions

We really do not know more than this right now.

But we are sure it is joining Smart line-up, and it can be as early as May 29, 2012.

Flipboard for Android

Apple iPad and iPhone users are already familiar with Flipboard. Flipboard is an app that aggregates feeds from websites and social networks. While this is not new in itself, the Flipboard's innovation is in its presentation. The app presents the web in a magazine like format.

Flipboard for Android was supposed to be a released initially as a Samsung Galaxy S III exclusive for a time, after which it would be made available to selected Android devices. A member of XDA Developers managed to nab a copy of Flipboard for Android from a demo Galaxy S III. I do not know how Flipboard, Inc. feels about this development, and Samsung is certainly not happy about this.

A gradual roll out of Flipboard is necessary, and you can't fault Flipboard, Inc., for that. Flipboard was originally launched for the Apple iPad. When the iPhone version came out, 1 million iPhone owners downloaded the app and it crashed Flipboard servers. Remember, when Instagram came out for Android, its user based increased by 1 million users per day.

Anyway, back to the app. Flipboard has a wide selection of "publications" available with new ones being added over time.

In addition to feeds from websites, Flipboard case also get updates from your favorite social networking services.

It won't replace your Facebook or Twitter app though.

While Flipboard presents social networking feeds beautifully, it does not update in the background, have a system of notifications or replicate all the functionality of a social network.

In Facebook you can "like" a post, reply to one and even post your own status update. In addition if there is a picture associated with the Facebook, Twitter or other feed, it will display it automatically. But it has no system for notifications. You will not be informed when someone sends you a message, replies to your post, replies to a comment you made on someone else's post, likes you post or tags you in a picture. You can upload pictures using Flipboard, but there is no way to tag pictures.

Interestingly, I have two friends who migrated to Flipboard for their Facebook accounts, and now I am starting to realize why they seem unresponsive to messages and posts where they are mentioned or reply when you comment on their post.

You could have Facebook notification sent via email and get notifications that. But you would have to manually locate the relevant post on Flipboard, which would not be too easy with those with very active Facebook accounts. You would also need a different app to handle Facebook messaging or use the Facebook mobile site to this.

Flipboard does make a good Facebook app for the lurker, who would rather not be bothered by notifications.

The are some issue though. In the Twitter feeds displayed above, even if there are no pictures in the update, and given that Twitter post are limited to only 140 characters, Flipboard still did not display the whole post so you have to click the post to see the whole thing. The Twitter posts in the Flipboard screen shot above is also shown in a simpler app, like the official Twitter app or handset proprietary apps like Friend Stream.

Friend Stream Widget

Flipboard can actually require more steps to get the same amount of information. Because of this Flipboard is not the fastest and most efficient view your Twitter feed. Rather than simply scrolling for information, you will have to open a Tweet, than go back to your main Twitter feed. You will find yourself opening Twitter feeds you normally ignore because you are not sure what the entire posts says.

There are other matters to take note off. Connecting Flipboard to my small 30 person Facebook account, Twitter and adding five website feeds caused my phone to download 33 MB of data. Given that I only have read two articles and replied to a Facebook post using Flipboard, it does seem to be heavy on data use. Since the app downloads pictures associated to posts and displays them in near full screen, a fair amount of data usage is to expected.

Flipboard also shows up on my battery usage chart, whereas my main social networking and news app do not consume enough battery power to actually be displayed there.

Flipboard does have is uses. I will probably use Flipboard to view "publications" instead of Google Currents. Flipboard has a nicer and more natural feeling user interface and Flipboard has its own interesting in-house curated content.

Ultimately, Flipboard is not the fastest and most efficient way to get information. It certainly displays content in a more beautiful and elegant manner than any other app I can think off. For social networking it is hard to recommend. It doe make a compelling, alternative to Pulse and Google Currents.

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