iPad At 3: How Simplicity Changed Computing

simple

adjective

-easy to understand, deal with, use, etc.

noun

-ignorant, foolish, or gullible

Dictionary.com

Journalists are supposed to be good at English, but on 27 January 2010 history will show we suffered a global outbreak of illiteracy. While Steve Jobs’ iPad unveiling keynote overloaded on the adjective ‘magical’, professional reporters fixated on his use of ‘simple’ as a noun. Headlines declared the iPad was foolish, Apple had been ignorant of its customers’ needs and gullible in believing that iOS could be slapped onto a ‘big iPod touch’ with positive results. This month, three years since the iPad first went on sale, we include ourselves amongst journalists who were taught a grammar lesson we will never forget.

Elementary My Dear Watson - Sherlock Holmes

Of course the iPad didn’t just ram home the importance of simplicity and its infinite number of positive linguistic interpretations, it created a mantra for the evolution of the computer industry. The result is been a drive to strip away the complexities long deemed part and parcel of computing (driver maintenance, anyone?) and push intuitive functionality in the form of bite size, affordable apps to the forefront. Presented with the blank canvass afforded by tablets’ sizable touch-screens developers have responded in their droves.

Furthermore, everything representative of a time before we became obsessively touchy feely is fast being swept away. Netbooks were the first casualty. The promise of an affordable, if compromised, PC experience on the move went from ingenious to antiquated almost overnight. Deemed a breakthrough with the launch of the Asus Eee PC in 2007, at the start of 2010 services firm Morgan Stanley estimated annual netbook sales of 42.7 million during 2012. Instead by December 2012 every major netbook maker had abandoned the category. Unsurprisingly Asus was the last to go, giving up the ghost in December.

Since then Mac OS has modelled its future on iOS, Windows 8 does a great impression of Windows Phone and talk of the first ‘Androidbook’ hit the press this week. The once-bonkers iPad model of applying a phone operating system to a tablet is now not only the norm but, as sales threaten to overtake PCs, a survival drive desktops and laptops are being forced to follow.

“Simple Is As Simple Does” - Forrest Gump

While the iPad is a categorical success, the extent has left a significant mess in its wake. Apple was undoubtedly thrilled to see it first fracture Android into phone and tablet editions then divide customers over Microsoft’s ‘hybrid’ Windows 8, but it isn't just rivals who have suffered.

The scale of the iPad’s success has clearly also confused Apple and left it startled like a rabbit in the headlights. Unlike Microsoft, which has at least taken the plunge with Windows 8, Mac OS X has spent three years paying increasing graphical lip service to iOS as it runs out of point releases and big cats to name updates after. It's as if Apple has yet to work out what OS XI should be: a potentially disastrous hybrid drawing Windows 8-levels of criticism or a full port to iOS which would destroy invaluable legacy software, especially for professionals.

At the same time iOS itself appears dumbstruck. The impression is Apple has become scared to make any major changes in case it alienates the iPad’s huge mainstream, tech-phobic user base. As such it just keeps tweaking and releasing incremental hardware updates. Having blown all of its major rivals away for the last three years, Apple's subsequent behaviour suggests that the company was almost as stunned as they were.

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” - Leonardo da Vinci

Still Apple remains in the box seat of a simplicity revolution it created. In just three years our social, professional and educational lives have been turned upside down as tablets fuel the fastest technological take-up in human history. Apple’s own sales data (above) shows iPad growth exponentially outstripping the iPhone since launch and a Flurry report in August claimed iOS and Android device adoption has consequently been 10x faster than the 1980s PC revolution, 2x faster than the 1990s Internet Boom and 3x faster than the adoption of social networks.

It may not have invented the tablet form factor, but Apple had the foresight to take the software from its phone and stick it onto a big iPod touch. Magical? Maybe not. Inspired? Certainly. Simple? Fundamentally. Three years ago we were a part of the technology press that were taught a grammar lesson. Now we all speak a new language…

readmore »»  

HTC to launch Facebook Home-less HTC First handset called M4?

HTC is preparing a variant of its newly announced HTC First handset without all of that Facebook Home goodness announced yesterday , reports on Friday have claimed.

LabTooFer has reportedly gleaned hands-on time with a new 4.3-inch device that appears to boast the same design and similar specs to the HTC First revealed on stage at the Home event on Thursday.

The hands-on showed no sign of the baked-in, custom Facebook Home Android UI for those who liked the look of the device, but don't want such a Facebook saturated experience. Instead, they'd get the gorgeous newest version of HTC Sense.

The other difference showcased in the hands-on? The addition of the HTC Ultrapixel camera technology, showcased by the HTC One, rather than the 5-megapixel camera offered by the HTC First.

The HTC First revealed at the Facebook Home event on Thursday is a mid-range device with a modest dual-core processor and a 5-megapixel camera, but the main attraction is the baked-in version of Facebook's custom Android UI.

The report claims the so called HTC M4 will have the newest version of Android Jelly Bean (the HTC First only has 4.1) as well as the Sense 5.0 user interface (which the First doesn't have at all) and a 720p display resolution.

The full listed specs are as follows:

"Processor: Snapdragon 400 MSM8930 1.2 Ghz Dual-Core

Screen: 4.3 inch, 720p resolution

Cameras: HTC UltraPixel/1.6M

GPS/Glonass

ROM: 16GB

RAM: 1GB

WiFi: 802.11 a/b/g/n

Bluetooth 4.0

Android 4.2.2

Sense 5.0"

If the reports turn out to be true the HTC M4 could be an alternative for those who want the features and functionality of the HTC One without going over budget.

Would you be interested in the Home-less HTC M4? Let us know in the comments section below.

Via SlashGear

readmore »»  

Good news, 4G signals will not ruin your Freeview TV reception

Freeview TV reception might not be as badly effected by incoming 4G signals as first feared, initial tests into the matter have suggested.

With fears that the UK’s imminent 4G switch on would see the 800MHz spectrum cause widespread disruption to Freeview TV users across the country, tests carried out by the at800 group have found that far fewer residences have experienced problems that first expected.

Having performed an early test across the West Midlands in recent weeks, the study found that the 800MHz spectrum, which will give EE a number a 4G network rivals, caused issues to the Freeview signals of just 15 of a potential 22,000 homes.

With a £180 million fund having been bestowed to the at800 group in order to minimise disruption to those negatively affected by the 4G rollout, homes which are found to have lost TV reception following the launch will receive a free signal booster box. Complimentary installation, provided by the fund will also be made available to those who need it.

"This was a useful, small-scale test. Further extensive evaluation will occur during April and May as masts are switched on for tests across larger urban areas," Simon Beresford-Wylie, CEO of at800 said.

Last year regulatory body Ofcom predicted that as many as 2.3 million homes could lose part or all of their television reception, with those located near 4G signal stations worst affected. EE’s current 4G network avoids such issues by using the 1800MHz frequency.

Via: Telegraph

readmore »»  

PS4 targeting larger female user base

Sony has revealed it is looking to attract the ladies, with the tech giant suggesting it hopes the upcoming PS4 release will help it attract a larger female user base.

With games consoles largely appealing to younger, male audiences, Sony has confirmed that it hopes the PS4 will help it break down these gender boundaries, introducing the console to a new, female market and allowing the company to reap the rewards of an expanded user base.

Claiming that the raft of new features being introduced to the PS4, Sony’s first new console in seven years, will help attract a broader range of users, Andrew House, President and CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment has outlined areas in which the company will look to target female users.

“We are not going down the route of making the console pink of course,” House said speaking with TheSun.

With the gaming sector in large a male dominated industry proving content for a largely male consumer base, House has suggested that in order to appeal to a female market, Sony will have to start from the beginning and introduce the console to the right developers.

“The key is getting games developers – who are going to make the next Angry Birds – excited about the PS4,” the Sony head suggested. “And they are.”

He added: “I think the key is to have people – and increasingly women – with different sensibilities creating different games. It is not all about shoot ‘em up games.”

Formally unveiled at a recent New York City launch event, the Sony PS4 was showcased alongside an all new, touch pad incorporating controller, as well as a revised PlayStation Eye camera which will allow gamers to enjoy immersive, motion gaming options.

The news comes as male PlayStation owners will be questioning their console choice after a study suggested Xbox 360 gamers are better in bed than their PS3 toting counterparts.

readmore »»  

BlackBerry 10 R-series handset leaks with QWERTY keyboard in tow

With the BlackBerry Q10 now available for pre-order, attention as turned to future BB10 phones with a claimed BlackBerry 10 R-series device leaking online, QWERTY keyboard and all.

Expected to be a cheaper alternative to the flagship BlackBerry Z10 and Q10 offerings, the as yet unconfirmed BB10 R-series has made a premature appearance, with a teasing image claiming to be of the handset’s QWERTY input offering hitting the web courtesy of the BlackBerryOS forums.

Whilst the image offers little insight into the nature and capabilities of the device, further reports have suggested the handset will feature just 8GB of internal storage, half of the Q10, side-mounted microSD expansion and an 1800mAH Lithium-Ion battery.

With BlackBerry having yet to offer an official word of BB10 handsets past the Z10 and Q10, it is possible that a range of R-series devices could be at the company’s annual BlackBerry Live convention in Florida next month.

A potential unveiling that would fit with the mooted “late summer or early fall” release, it has been suggested that the entry-level, BlackBerry Curve replacing range will set wannabe owners back somewhere between $300 and $400 (£196 - £261).

readmore »»  

Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 goes on sale in the UK

The stylus boasting Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 has launched in the UK with the tablet currently and Samsung Experience Store exclusive.

Formally unveiled in the days leading up to MWC 2013 back in February, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 is the company’s latest addition to its much loved and stylus hosting Note range, sitting comfortably between the 5.5-inch Samsung Galaxy Note 2 smartphone and Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet.

Available to purchase now, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 is currently exclusive to the Samsung Experience Store located at London’s Westfield Stratford City shopping centre. The manufacturer has revealed that other retail channels will follow in the near future.

Having spoken to staff at teh Experience Store, TrustedReviews has been informed that the 16GB Wi-Fi only model is currently the only device in stock with the unit setting waanabe owners back £339, considerable more than the similarly specced iPad mini.



Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 Specs

With users able to make user of a raft of intuitive features, the impressive Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 specs sheet is further bolstered by a raft of software additions, including the ability to make use of multi-window viewing and enjoy content from two applications simultaneously.

Running Google’s Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean OS direct from the box, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 features list sees the title providing 8-inch WXGA touchscreen display play host to a 1280 x 800p resolution. With a 1.6GHz quad-core A9 processor running the show, the zippy Note 8.0 is further bolstered by 2GB of RAM and the option of 16GB or 32GB storage options, both expandable via microSD.

Alongside the tablet’s S-Pen stylus party piece, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 also incorporates a sizeable 4600mAh Lithium-Ion battery and a pair of integrated snappers, 5-megapixel round back and 1.3-megapixel up front.

Playing host to an extremely plasticy construct, the latest addition to Samsung’s growing Note line up, measures in at just 338g in weight.



Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 Release Date and Price

Despite the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 release date seeing the device now on sale, at least through one store, Samsung has failed to formally confirm the Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 price.

Having spoken directly with staff at the Samsung Experience Store, we can confirm that the 16GB Wi-Fi only model costs a considerable £339. Details on the 3G and 32GB options is still unknown.

readmore »»  

Could this be what the edge-to-edge display toting iPhone 6 looks like?

iPhone 6 rumours look set to be kicked into overdrive as leaked images of the handset hit the web with an all new, curved edge-to-edge display hosting design on show.

In keeping with recently revealed Apple patent applications, the newly leaked iPhone 6 pictures show off a claimed prototype handset which has done away with Apple’s traditional physical home button in favour of an edge-to-edge display. A move recently tipped to be on Apple’s agenda, the redesign would help the Samsung rival offer larger on-screen real estate without dramatically increasing the handset’s form factor.

The images, which have appeared courtesy of GSMArena, show a handset considerably thicker in the middle than its extremely thin edges with the convexed, curved nature of the display paired with a virtually bezel-less design that would be sure to appeal to many.

A leak that we advise is taken with a considerable pinch of salt, the latest reports have suggested the insider responsible for bringing the handset to light couldn’t vouch for the device’s validity, although it has been suggested it could be one of a number of prototype designs Apple is currently testing for the eagerly awaited iPhone 6.

iPhone 6 Rumours

Although expected to be preluded this year by the iPhone 5S, a device widely expected to largely resemble the iPhone 5, recent iPhone 6 rumours have suggested the handset could enter the realms of reality in 2014 with an all new design in tow.

Tipped to be Apple’s next big direction change for its flagship smartphone offering, the iPhone 6 specs sheet is expected to be complimented by a raft of high-end innards, with the likes of an eight-core processor and a larger, more detail display already tipped for inclusion.

Whilst Apple has remained impressively tight-lipped about its upcoming handsets, further iPhone 6 rumours have mooted that the future device could land in “6-8 colours”.

readmore »»  

BlackBerry Q10 pre-orders kick off, QWERTY love comes at a price

BlackBerry Q10 pre-orders have officially kicked off and it looks as though the addition of a physical QWERTY keyboard has bumped up the price, with the device set to cost more than its BlackBerry Z10 sibling.

With Carphone Warehouse becoming one of the first to open its BlackBerry Q10 pre-orders in the UK, the high street retailer has revealed that the first QWERTY keyboard hosting BB10 handset will come at a premium, with the device listed a full £100 more expensive that its full touchscreen counterpart.

With the handset set to be made available for free when taken out on a £36 per month, two year contract, Carphone Warehouse has revealed that the BlackBerry Q10 price will see the handset cost a whopping £579.95 on a SIM-free basis. The flagship BlackBerry Z10 costs just £479.95 on a similar deal.

As well as costing more than the BlackBerry Z10, this lofty SIM-free price tag sees the BlackBerry Q10 line up more expensive than the 16GB iPhone 5 and just a few quid shy of the Samsung Galaxy S4, a handset expected to cost £600.

Set to be offered across a selection of leading UK networks, those keen to snap up the eagerly awaited device from Carphone Warehouse will be able to pair the handset with contracts from O2, Orange, T-Mobile, Vodafone and EE. As currently the UK’s only 4G network provider, EE will exclusive maximise the BlackBerry Q10’s 4G capabilities.

Although a precise BlackBerry Q10 release date has yet to be confirmed, a BlackBerry spokeperson has today informed TrustedReviews that ‘The Q10 will be available in the UK from the end of April. Details on availability in other markets will follow soon.’ A potential BlackBerry Q10 release date was recently teased as April 26, the same day as the Samsung Galaxy S4 is set to hit UK shores.



BlackBerry Q10 Specs

Hosting a 3.1-inch Super AMOLED touchscreen display with a 720 x 720p resolution, the key selling point of the BlackBerry Q10 specs sheet is undoubtedly the handset’s trademark BlackBerry QWERTY keyboard.

Aside from the physical keyboard, the first to be included on a BlackBerry 10 device, the Q10 features list sees a 1.5GHz dual-core processor given the nod.

Measuring in at just 10.4mm thick and a reasonable 139g in weight, the BlackBerry Q10 features 2GB of RAM and 16GB or integrated storage, expandable via microSD As its name suggests, the January launched BlackBerry 10 operating system runs the show.

Set to launch in both black and white colour forms, the BlackBerry Q10 specs collection is rounded off by an 8-megapixel rear-mounted camera, a second, forward-facing snapper and 1080p Full HD video recording capabilities. An 1800mAh Lithium-Ion battery supplies the BlackBerry Q10 staying power.

readmore »»  

Sorry Sony fans, Xbox 360 gamers are deemed better between the sheets

Xbox 360 owners are better in bed than their PS3 loving counterparts, a new study has suggested, begging the question - who is sleeping with all these gamers?

Shirking the belief that avid gamers are antisocial nerds who struggle to look a woman in the eye, let alone get her back to their mother’s basement, latest figures have revealed that Xbox 360 owners are above average in the sack, according to their partners at least.

However, according to figures compiled by VoucherCodesPro, PS3 favouring gamers need to spend less time button-bashing and more time nubbin-rubbin’, as a study of 1,747 UK participants revealed that fans of Sony’s console are somewhat below par at the sex.

Taking a look at external influences on relations, participants in the study named their partner’s console of choice, before rating their sexual performances on a scale that ranged from a bed-rocking “Excellent” to a weeping into the pillow “Below Average.”

According to the findings, roughly half of the unsuspecting gamers were rated as being along the lines of “Good” or “Average” in bed, a figure eclipsed by those who own an Xbox 360, where 54 per cent of gamers were ranked as “Good” or better. What’s more, 22 per cent of Xbox gamers received top marks for their bedroom antics, even if they do have to fit it in between sessions of FIFA 13.

With Wii users a somewhat surprising second in the bedroom ability charts, perhaps predictably, PC gamers fared the worst with only 3 per cent praised for their nocturnal activities.

Worryingly, 11 per cent of those questioned suggested that their relationship could benefit from more gaming and less sex. Whoever you are, put down your controller and hang your head in shame.

"So, according to our survey, it seems that if you own an Xbox 360, you can give yourself a pat on the back for bedroom performance." Well, one in five of you can at least,” George Charles of VocherCodesPro said. “For other gamers it definitely seems there's room for improvement. And despite it being an undeniably good game, perhaps Bioshock Infinite doesn't act as a natural performance enhancer!"

Via: Escapist

readmore »»  

Microsoft planning Google Glass rival for next year?

With Google Glass having captured consumers’ imaginations, latest reports have suggested that Microsoft will launch its own augmented reality eyewear in the early part of 2014.

Seemingly set to bring the fight to Google, Microsoft looks set to join the wearable gadget revolution, with industry analysts predicting that the software behemoth could extend its hardware ventures to stave off being dwarfed by its rivals. Although Apple is not believed to be working on its own high-tech glasses, the iPad mini manufacturer is expected to launch its own wearable Apple iWatch device later this year.

"It appears to us that Google has made significant breakthroughs around software applications as it relates to this new product," analyst Brian White said in a recent note to investors. "As such, we believe this initiative will kick off a major push into the field of wearable electronics and therefore will be closely scrutinized."

Although failing to offer any indication as to what capabilities the mooted Microsoft internet-connected glasses will possess, White hinted that the device could launch in the first half of 2014, just months after Google’s expected late 2013 Google Glass release.



Google Glass Features

With initial Google Glass stock set to be manufactured in the US, latest details revealed by Google have suggested that the smart eyewear will play host to a small touch panel and a single physical button for menu navigation, whilst voice commands will also allow users to control the device hands-free.

Playing host to an inbuilt camera to allow users to video or photograph their surroundings from a point-of-view perspective, current Google Glass features include the ability to start Google hangouts as well as access a selection of the company’s service’s including Google Maps, Gmail and Path.

Projecting an augmented reality image into users’ fields of vision, the relatively unobtrusive eyewear, which will be compatible with prescription specs, will also feature facial recognition technologies.

Despite pushing the realms of technological advancement, Google Glass has come under criticism from privacy campaigners, with activists suggesting the video recording capabilities of the headset will invade the personal privacy of members of the public.

Via: AppleInsider

readmore »»  

Social media activated personal alarm launched

International human rights charity, Civil Rights Defenders, has announced its first personal alarm to incorporate Facebook and Twitter.

Named after Natalia Estemirova, a leading human rights defender in the North Caucasus who was brutally kidnapped and murdered within 24 hours of being abducted, the Natalia Project uses GPS and social media to inform of a kidnapping within seconds.

Like no other personal alarm available, the Natalia Project bracelet has the capability to Facebook and Tweet life threatening news of a kidnap anywhere in the world, in order for Civil Rights Defenders to take action. With the incorporation of Facebook and Twitter, the personal alarm bracelet has the potential to inform millions of people about a kidnapping by using a mobile signal which can then issue a real-time GPS location of the victim directly to Civil Rights Defenders’ headquarters.

Additionally the bracelet also notifies nearby contacts so that they can instantly act and/or inform social media followers.

“Most of us, given the chance, would like to help others in danger. These civil rights defenders are risking their lives for others to have the right to vote, or to practice religion or free speech,” Robert Hårdh, Executive Director of Civil Rights Defenders stated. “These are rights that Westerners take for granted every day.”

He added: “The Natalia Project makes it easy for anyone to contribute to the safety of civil rights defenders to allow them to carry on their crucial work, either showing strength in numbers, by ‘liking’ or following on social media, or by donating directly to support the ongoing work.”

With the capability to alert the world within an instant, the Natalia Project aims to prevent cases like that of Natalia Estemirova by contacting the authorities in time. The Natalia Project also hopes to apply pressure to the kidnappers as the world will immediately become aware of an attack.

Fifty-five bracelets are to be distributed to human rights activists over the next 18 months, dependent upon receiving enough financial support from sponsors and the general public. The first personal alarms will be distributed at Civil Rights Defenders’ conference, Defenders’ Days, in Stockholm this week.

readmore »»  

HTC First UK release date set for summer, EE to be launch partner

Following the handset’s formal unveiling last night, the HTC First UK release date has been set for this summer, with the first device to support the newly launched Facebook Home UI to hit EE’s 4G networks.

Lining up alongside Facebook Home, the social networking giant’s new Android based user interface and app launcher which will hit the Google Play Store in the coming weeks, the HTC First has been announced as the first dedicated Facebook Home handset which will sport the innovative UI direct from the box.

“With Home enabled out of the box, you’ll be able to get everyone's latest updates and messages right on your home screen,” Dan Rose, Vice President of Partnerships at Facebook, said of the new HTC First.

Confirming that the device will be made available to consumers in the ‘summer’, EE, currently the UK’s only 4G network, has revealed it will be a launch partner for the HTC First, offering the 4G capable handset from day one.

“We’re proud to have been chosen by Facebook and HTC to be their UK launch partner for the HTC First,” Pippa Dunn, the Chief Marketing Officer at EE said. “In combining our unique superfast network with the latest integrated Facebook experience, customers will constantly be at the centre of conversations with their friends.”

HTC First Specs

Although concrete HTC First Specs are still somewhat thin on the ground, the Taiwanese handset manufacturer has revealed that the upcoming device will capitalise on the full array of Facebook Home introduced features.

As well as boasting the new Facebook Home Cover Feed, a constant stream of photos and updates from friends that are available front and centre, the HTC First will also support deep integration of Facebook notifications, an inbuilt app launcher and Chat Heads, a collated messaging service that will allow users to keep in touch with Facebook contacts from within other apps on the device.

Whilst finalized specs are still to be confirmed, recent leaks suggested that the HTC First will play host to a 4.3-inch touchscreen display alongside Google’s Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean OS. With a dual-core CPU tipped to run the show, 1GB of RAM and a 5-megapixel rear-mounted camera reportedly in the mix, the HTC First looks set to play host to a somewhat middling array of innards.

"Along with our partners and fellow innovators—EE in the UK—we anticipate excitement from customers when the HTC First becomes available, putting a user's friends and family at the centre of their mobile experience,” Peter Chou, HTC’s CEO said.

HTC First Release Date and Price

With the HTC First UK release date currently pegged for ‘summer’, a certain amount of speculation still surrounds when we can expect the handset to be available in stores.

Similarly vague is how much the device will set wannabe owners back, with EE having yet to confirm its HTC First price plans. That said, in the US, the Facebook Home hosting handset has been tipped as sporting a $99 (£60) subsidised price tag on a two-year contract.

readmore »»  

Microsoft creative director doesn't see problem with always-on Xbox 720

Microsoft Studios creative director Adam Orth has spoken out on rumours that the next generation Xbox - or Xbox 720 as some are calling it - will require a permanent internet connection to work. He doesn't understand why people have a problem with the concept.

Persistent rumours that the Xbox 720 will be always-on, requiring an internet connection even to play single player games, have attracted a great deal of criticism from press and fans. Such a feature would mean that any drop in internet connection would prevent you from playing games.

Whilst no official confirmation (or denial) of this feature has been forthcoming, one influential Microsoft figure at least has thrown his hat into the ring.

Adam Orth is the creative director of Microsoft Studios - Microsoft's in-house video game production department - and he recently tweeted, "Sorry, I don't get the drama over having an "always on" console," adding that "every device now is 'always-on.' That's the world we live in."

Orth provided a couple of illustrations that explain his breezy dismissal of a pretty hot topic. "Sometimes the electricity goes out. I will not buy a vacuum cleaner," he tweeted. "The mobile reception in the area I live in is spotty and unreliable. I will not buy a mobile phone," he added.

Orth has made his Twitter account private following the inevitable coverage his comments have provoked. The question is, can his comments be seen as implicit confirmation that the Xbox 720 will include an always-on requirement? Or are these simply the idle observations of a regular Twitter user?

Let us know what you think in the comments section below, or via the Trusted Reviews Twitter and Facebook feeds.

Via: The Verge

readmore »»  

Nokia Lumia 720 now available in the UK

The Nokia Lumia 720 is now available to buy in a number of territories around the world, including the UK.

Nokia's latest effort is the fifth Lumia to run Microsoft's Windows Phone 8 OS, and it sits right in the middle of the range.

Nokia Lumia 720 Features

The Nokia Lumia 720 offers a 4.3-inch 800 x 480 display, rather like the Nokia Lumia 900 before it. However, the Nokia Lumia 720's display works even when you have gloves on, which is a feature it shares with the likes of the Nokia Lumia 920 and Nokia Lumia 820.

Powering the Nokia Lumia 720 is a 1GHz dual-core CPU backed by 512MB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. This is expandable by up to 64GB thanks to its microSD card slot.

The Lumia 720 also features a 6.7-megapixel rear camera, which sports a very similar image sensor to the flagship Nokia Lumia 920. It also has an extraordinarily wide f/1.9 aperture lens for quicker shots and superior low light performance.

Nokia Lumia 720 Pricing

Prices for the Nokia Lumia 720 start from £299.99 on Pay As You Go over at O2. Online retailed Clove is also offering the phone for that price, though a note on the website says that it's not expecting stock until April 8.

If you're after the Nokia Lumia 720 on contract, O2 is offering it for free on a £22 a month two year package. This gives you 100 minutes, unlimited texts and 250MB of mobile network data.

Will you be buying a Nokia Lumia 720? Let us know in the comments section below.

readmore »»  

4G prices still deterring UK consumers study finds

Although consumers are now more knowledgeable about 4G than when the superfast connection first hit the UK six months ago, many are still worried about its increased costs, new research has found.

Prior to EE launching the UK’s first 4G network last October, less than half of consumers were aware of what 4G was, research carried out by independent price comparison site, uSwitch has revealed. However, latest figures have revealed that more than 7 in 10 UK residents are aware of the benefits of 4G services.

In addition to this, the study has found that almost half of mobile phone users are looking to future-proof when it comes to renewing their handset, with 48 per cent of consumers looking to make sure their next smartphone is 4G-ready. Despite this, the number of those concerned by the prices associated with making the jump to 4G have risen since the services hit the UK.

Whilst the research has shown that customers are more knowledgeable about 4G and its service, further data has suggested that the cost of 4G is prevented them from signing up to the service. With 31 per cent of consumers stating last October that they wouldn’t sign up to 4G because they thought it would be too expensive for them, that figure has now risen to 38 per cent of the population.

“Pricing is highly likely to become the new battleground for 4G, especially in light of Three’s ‘no premium for superfast’ pledge,” Ernest Doku, a Telecoms expert at uSwitch stated. “We hope that more networks offering 4G will lead to real competition on numerous fronts including cost, data, handsets and coverage - so that consumers can enjoy the next generation of mobile internet without the sky-high price tag they fear.”

For consumers, alongside the concern that 4G’s current price is too expensive is the additional fear that data bills will continue to increase. Unlimited data is currently unavailable on EE’s 4G plans, which means that mobile users are becoming more worried about hitting data limits.

This means that although most consumers will be getting a faster service because of 4G’s quicker network offerings, it could also mean that users run out, or reach their, data limit faster. This is a concern to almost seven in ten consumers (69 per cent), compared to six in ten (62 per cent) last October.

Do you think the UK’s current 4G prices are too expensive? Will you be holding out for a more competitive market before making the jump? Let us know via the TrustedReviews Twitter and Facebook feeds or through the comment boxes below.

readmore »»  

HTC First confirmed as the world's first Facebook Home optimised handset

HTC took the stage at Facebook's Android media event on Thursday to reveal the first handset to be optimised for the social network's brand new Facebook Home suite of apps.

During the event Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed a brand new custom user interface and app launcher for for Android smartphones, which will be available from the Google Play Store on April 12th, for users of certain handsets.

The HTC First device, as the name suggests, is the first device to boast this new experience out of the box.

Specs are thin on the ground, as is international availability, but it will also launch in the US on April 12th on the AT&T Network for $99 (£60) on a two-year contract.

Earlier rumours had suggested that the mid-range device will boast a 4.3-inch screen, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean, a dual-core processor, five-megapixel camera and 1GB of RAM

The 4G LTE enabled handset will bring the attractive and intriguing Coverfeed UI, which replaces the home screen on Android phones with people-focused rather than app-focused updates, as well as the new Chatheads messaging app that allows users to reply to messages without interrupting other activities too much.

Earlier rumours had suggested the Facebook Home service would initially be confined to a single Facebook Phone, manufactured by HTC, but the social network has broader ideas for its new UI and wants to bring Facebook Home to a wide range of smartphones in tablets.

With that in mind HTC's appearance at the event was relegated to the undercard, rather than the main event status touted in the build up to the launch, but the company's CEO Peter Chou still showed up to tout the launch, promising a "unique experience."

We'll let you know when details of a UK launch are confirmed.

Has the HTC First piqued your interested? Let us know in the comments section below.

readmore »»  

Facebook Home app suite and launcher for Android now official

Facebook has revealed its brand new skin for the Android operating system, Facebook Home, which will be available to download from the Google Play Store next week for those with compatible handsets.

Rather than launching a Facebook specific version of Android, company CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced a suit that gives Android users the opportunity to turn their device into a Facebook themed piece of kit.

"We're finally going to talk about that Facebook phone," Mark Zuckerberg teased in beginning the event. "Or more accurately we're going to talk about how you can turn your Android into a great social device. We're not building a phone and we're not building an operating system."

Facebook Home, which arrives on April 12, places the key elements of the social networks service at the front and centre of the Android experience. It brings together all Facebook-friendly apps like the standalone Android app, Messenger, Camera and Instagram.

Phones with Facebook Home installed will see their lock screen replaced with the new Coverfeed. It's the key feature of the new Android skin and is also what users will see when they first switch on their phones.

Basically, it's a photo-based overlay that continually refreshes with your friends status updates, new Instagram photos and check ins, on which you can like or comment directly from the lock screen. It also features friends' Cover Photos on a continuous carousel.

Notifications come straight to the home screen and, once they have been viewed, can easily be dispensed. Everything appears in real time.

There's also a new Chatheads UI that allows users to send IMs and SMS messages without leaving the activity they're currently performing. If a user is editing a photo via Instagram, for example, the Chathead notification, featuring your Facebook pal's profile picture will pop up and you can respond in line.

The Facebook Home suite also features an app launcher that showcases some non Facebook-centric essential apps like Google Maps, Spotify, Dropbox, Chrome and more. Users can customise that experience, while they can also post status updates, photos and check ins directly from the launcher.

You can see some examples of the functionality in the brief clips below.

Presently Home will work on the new HTC First phone, announced at the media event today, as well as the Samsung Galaxy S3, Galaxy S4, Galaxy Note 2 and also the HTC One X, HTC One and HTC One X .

The company announced that Sony, HTC and Samsung are all signed onto the Facebook Home program, which will aim to get the software into the hands of consumers sooner rather than later.

The ecosystem is also coming to Android tablets in the next several months, so it'll be interesting to see the likes of the Galaxy Note 10.1, Galaxy Note 8.9 and Sony Xperia Tablet Z rocking the new Facebook Home skin.

readmore »»  

Apple working on iPad Macbook hybrid according to patent

Apple could be working on its own hybrid laptop, combining an iPad and a MacBook, which display can be removed from the base according to a new patent.

The patent reveals that the hybrid could take the form of a base similar to the lower half of a MacBook Pro, with a removable display akin to an iPad 4. This display could also be rotatable and close in a clam fashion.

This detachable display may wirelessly communicate from the base via Wi-Fi or BlueTooth for example and has the potential to include a unique wire-free power transferral system between the base and the display. Using coils or capacitive plates the two devices could transfer power between themselves, meaning the display could be remotely powered by an AC-connected device.

The screen could also wireless connect to phones, camera or other smart devices without the need for wires, and the base could wield the potential to connect to peripherals that are then utilised by the detached screen.

Like an iPad, the hybrid’s display would be touchscreen and allow for input functionality when removed from the base. The two sections would connect using a latch or a spring, which could potentially retract into the housing when detached, keeping the devices neat and clean. This may work via magnetic force to pull the “support members” in or out of the body of the display and base.

The design seems elegant enough, theoretically fitting with Apple’s beautiful range of devices.

If this patent is brought to fruition, Apple could produce a hybrid to rival devices like the Microsoft Surface, Asus Vivo Tab or Dell XPS 10.

However, it isn’t guaranteed that Apple will ever bring the product to market, but we could see the wireless power transferral system could find its way into future Apple devices.

Do you think Apple should create a hybrid tablet/laptop? Or do you think there isn’t a need for such a device? Give us your thoughts via the TrustedReviews Facebook and Twitter feeds or the comments below.

Via: Patently Apple

readmore »»  

North Korea has Twitter and Flickr accounts hacked by Anonymous

Official, government-run Twitter and Flickr account in North Korea have been hacked by a team of hackers thought to be Anonymous activists.

North Korea’s Uriminzokkiri Flickr and Twitter accounts have been overtaken by Anonymous activists. The Uriminzokkiri news site has also been forced offline along with the Twitter and Flickr hacks.

North Korea usually uses social media to send out propagandist content from the Pyongyang regime, including pictures of Kim Jong-un, praise of its systems and its leaders or to further publicise commentary published by the official Central News Agency.

The hackers, allegedly part of “Operation Free Korea”, have called for North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to step down and be replaced by a democratic government, as well as demanding uncensored internet access for the North Korean people.

Uriminzokkiri’s Twitter feed begin to display messages from the activists around 7am BST, when the account’s avatar was also changed to an image of two people dancing in the Guy Fawkes Anonymous masks with the caption “tango down”.

The tweets began with the word “hacked” repeatedly followed by links to North Korea-related websites. In the midst of that a tweet bearing the same “tango down” slogan sported a link to the North Korean Flickr page.

On the Flickr page, Anonymous has posted the Twitter avatar picture, a black image bearing white lettering that reads “We are Anonymous” and a wanted poster mocking Kim Jong-un “A.K.A Nuke Nuke Mickey Lover”. Beneath the modified picture of Kim Jong-un’s face complete with pig ears, snout and a Mickey Mouse tattoo on his chest, the text lists his crimes as “Threatening world peace with ICBMs and Nuclear weapons | Wasting money while his people starve to death | Concentration Camps and the worst human rights violation in the world.”

“To the citizens of North Korea we suggest to rise up and bring [this] oppressive government down!”, wrote Anonymous members in an online post. “We are holding your back and your hand, while you take the journey to freedom, democracy and peace.”

“You are not alone. Don’t fear us, we are not terrorist [sic], we are the good guys from the internet. AnonKorea and all the other Anons are here to set you free.”

With tensions currently running high, North Korea has already warned it has authorised plans for nuclear targets on the US, with US defence secretary Chuck Hagel admitting the country posed “a real and clear danger” to Japan, America and South Korea.

Via: BBC

readmore »»  

Xbox 720 being tweaked by Microsoft to match PS4 potential?

Having let Sony take the plunge and test the next-gen waters with its recent PS4 unveiling, latest reports have suggested Microsoft is now making final tweaks to the upcoming Xbox 720 to ensure that it can match up to its main rival.

With the Xbox 720 launch event widely expected to be held in the weeks leading up to E3 2013, the annual Los Angeles based gaming expo that takes place in June, publisher Ubisoft has suggested that by holding off to see what Sony did, Microsoft can now ensure its next-gen gamer hits the same heights.

Suggesting that the current console cycle has been much longer than originally anticipated, Ubisoft Montreal CEO Yannis Mallat, whilst offering no concrete details on Microsoft’s upcoming console, stated that the Xbox 720 will be “aligned with what Sony announced.”

Hinting at what is already expected, he added: “It’s going to be connected. It’s going to be social. It’s going to be immersive. It’s going to be interactive.”

Despite the selection of new features and gaming options set to hit both Sony and Microsoft’s respective PS3 and Xbox 360 replacements, Mallat has suggested that improved graphics will remain the key selling point for many gamers.

"Let's state the obvious: the easy and immediate thing is going to be the graphics," he said. "There are some mind-blowing graphics right now on our next-gen technology, both on Watch Dogs and Assassin's Creed. That will be the entry door for anyone, even for the mainstream. It's really going to be amazing. Trust me on this one.”

Keen not to overlook the implication of the new capabilities, however, the Ubisoft head added: "That being said, the connected aspects and the social components will be what will define the difference between a next-gen experience and a current-gen experience. And we're eager to be able to talk about that and show that when we're ready."

Although Sony and Microsoft have been working on their upcoming consoles for a number of years, Mallat revealed that Ubisoft was forced to take matters into its own hands when preparing for the change in console forms.

"First off, we need to understand it's been a very long cycle with the 360 and the PS3," Mallat said, "much longer than we were anticipating and hoping. We are more used to a five year-ish cycle. So we had no other choice but to rely on our own vision of what next-gen could be, from our point of view.

"We didn't wait for first parties to describe their systems or deliver test kits. We already invested some time and effort on high-end PC, and we relied on our creatives to dream the dream and envision what the next-gen could be."

Via: TechRadar | Via: Eurogamer

readmore »»  

Netflix confirms May 26 Arrested Developed Season 4 launch

Netflix has confirmed that Arrested Development fans will be able to catch the fourth season of the Bluth clan adventures exclusively from Netflix on May 26.

The show’s return to small screen has been hotly anticipated for months, since Netflix announced it would be hosting all new episodes of the previously-cancelled Arrested Development sitcom.

Appealing to TV series bingers, the 15 new episodes making up the fourth season of Arrested Development will become available all in one go from 7.01am GMT, as well as in the 26 other countries where Netflix is available.

“Arrested Development is now widely viewed as one of the top TV comedies of all time and Mitch Hurwitz is brining it to Netflix in a brand new way, crafted for the on-demand generation that has come to discover the show in the years since it last appeared on TV,” said Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer for Netflix. “The highly anticipated return of this show is sure to make history all over again.”

“Ted said that? Wow. Well don’t print this obviously, but he’s going to be immensely disappointed,” joked Arrested Development creator and executive producer Mitch Hurwitz. “In truth we are doing something very ambitious that can only be done with Netflix as partners and on their platform. Finally my simple wish for the show is coming true: that it be broadcast every second around the clock to every television, computer or mobile device in existence.”

Speaking to Metro last month, Arrested Development star Jason Bateman discussed the delineated nature of the new series.

“It’s extremely exciting because of the way the story rolls out – all of the action takes place at the same time so if, say, I’m driving down the street and one of the other characters walks by on the sidewalk you can stop my episode and click into his and follow where he’s going,” explained Bateman. “Everything’s braided and there’s different orders you can watch the episode in which will reveal certain information to you that others might not.”

Arrested Development Season 4 is the latest original content to be offered by Netflix. Its House of Cards original series has already become the site’s most watched programme and will launch on Blu-Ray later this year.

Via: Engadget

readmore »»  

Sony Xperia SP coming to Three

Three has announced that it will be offering the Sony Xperia SP on its Ultrafast network in the coming months.

The mid-range Sony Xperia SP will support Three’s Ultrafast DC-HSDPA network from launch, which the network provider claims is just as speedy as the 4G connection offered by EE.

The 4.6-inch screen handset has also been “future proofed”, able to access the 4G LTE network. AS one of the winners of Ofcom’s 4G auction, Three is launching its own 4G network to rival EE later this year and has confirmed consumers can upgrade to the 4G signal “without paying a premium or having to change price plans.”

“The Sony Xperia SP is yet another welcome addition to our impressive range of Ultrafast devices,” said Sylvia Chind, Head of Devices at Three. “With great features and coupled with Three’s All-You-Can-Eat data, we’re confident our customers will love this smartphone on our award winning network.”

Sony Xperia SP Features

Boasting a crisp and colourful 4.6-inch 720p HD Reality Display with a 319ppi image density, the Sony Xperia SP features the latest Sony Mobile Bravia Engine 2 seen in the Sony Xperia Z. According to Sony, this combination means the display is capable of making automatic sharpness, colour and contrast adjustments to reflect the currently displayed content.

An 8-megapixel camera is featured in the rear, equipped with Sony’s Exmor RS for mobile image sensor, which means it is capable of shooting in HDR and offers excellent low-light photography.

Claiming to offer a longer battery life than the average power hungry smartphone, the Sony Xperia SP comes equipped with a Stamina battery mode, as well as NFC One-Touch technology.

The Sony Xperia SP runs Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and packs a 1.7GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon dual-core processor with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of RAM expandable via a microSD up to 32GB.

Within its co-moulded aluminium body, the Sony Xperia SP also utilises Sony’s transparent element. Any incoming calls, texts or other notifications will mean this transparent section at the bottom of the handset will light up, changing colour according to the alert in question. The panel also mirrors the content currently being viewed on the handset, similar to the Philips Ambilight technology, and will pulse along to any music played through the handset.



Sony Xperia SP Release Date

Three has kept quiet as to when the Sony Xperia SP release date will actually be, also declining to offer any pricing details for the upcoming mid-range handset.

readmore »»  

Budget iPhone concept arcs back to the iMac days of yore

Amid of flurry of budget iPhone rumours, new concept images have hit the web suggesting Apple’s mooted mid-range handset could sport an early iMac esque design.

Crafted by designer Nickolay Lamm on behalf of MyVoucherCodes, the latest budget iPhone concepts have hinted that like the iMac G3 of distant memories, Apple could employ the use of translucent plastics in a bid to reduce costs and offer and visually appealing handset that is accessible to the masses.

With the iPhone 5 currently at the upper end of the smartphone market, eclipsed on price by few handsets other than the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S4, a number of reports have recently suggested that the upcoming, high-end iPhone 5S will line up alongside a new budget iPhone.

Tasked with making the iPhone brand and ecosystem available to a wider audience, stemming the rise in Android devices in the process, it has been suggested that “the entry-level iPhone will adopt a chassis mixed with plastic and metal, with the internal metal parts being able to be seen from outside through special design.”

Releasing the new budget iPhone concept into the wild, designer Lamm stated: “There are rumours that Apple, along with the iPhone 5S, will come out with a budget iPhone. One overlooked rumour is that the back case of the low cost iPhone will be translucent, like the iMac G3.”

Shown sporting the iconic green-blue hue of past iMac G3 models, the new budget iPhone concept designs fall in line with past claims that Apple will unveil a new smartphone in “6-8 colours,” a move previously expected to follow the varyingly coloured brushed metal form of the 2012 iPod touch.

Expanding on his concept, Lamm added: “The reason the iMac was made transparent was to make it seem less alien to consumers. Before the iMac, computers were all in a box shape and in gray color. The ability to see inside the computer made the device seem less mysterious and much more personal.

“We’ve gotten so used to our smartphones that we aren’t the least bit impressed with the technology that makes them work. The translucent material can do the same thing for the budget iPhone what it did for the iMac G3: open up our eyes as to the incredible advances in computing that have been made and make people excited about buying a phone again.”

Budget iPhone Rumours

Long the thing of much rumour and speculation, murmurings of a budget iPhone release first started circulating around the launch of the iPhone 5 and have only increased in number in the run up to the iPhone 5S release date.

According to recent word from industry analysts, “Apple is working to launch multiple new phones in the June/July time-frame this year. Specifically, [Apple] will launch the iPhone 5S and a more affordable but lower-end iPhone at the same time, in either late CYQ2 or early Q3.”

Amit Daryanani, an analyst with RBC Capital Markets added: “The low-end iPhone will have the same 4-inch form factor as the iPhone 5 but will have plastic casing and no retina display. With a lower price-point, [Apple] will be able to target a growing and important part of the Smartphone market (sub-$400 [£250] price-band).”

readmore »»  

Samsung Galaxy Star and Samsung Galaxy Pocket Neo launched as budget handsets

Samsung has announced the Samsung Galaxy Star and Samsung Galaxy Pocket Neo, two new additions to its Samsung Galaxy line aimed to appeal to younger consumers on a tighter budget.

The duo of low-end handsets look very similar, but the Samsung Galaxy Star just wins out over the Samsung Galaxy Pocket Neo in terms of processing power.

Both handsets sport a 3-inch QVGA screen with an unimpressive 320 x 240p resolution powered by a 1,200mAh battery, perfect for those looking for handsets on a very low-entry price point.

Packing 4GB of internal storage expandable via a microSD card slot to 32GB, both the Samsung Galaxy Star and Samsung Galaxy Pocket Neo offer a 2-megapixel camera in the rear, but lack any kind of front-facing snapper, meaning video calling is not an option.

Weighing in at only 100.5g each, the handsets are lightweight, with the Samsung Galaxy Star measuring 104.95 x 58 x 11.9mm and the Samsung Galaxy Pocket Neo a smidgen larger at 105 x 57.8 x 11.8mm.

Android 4.1 Jelly Bean is bundled as standard, rather than the latest Android 4.2 OS, but as the pair pack little specs power, it isn’t much of an issue. Of course, the duo’s Android OS is overlaid with Samsung’s TouchWiz UI too.

As for processing chips, this is where the pair differs. The Samsung Galaxy Star offers the slightly more powerful 1GHz processor, whilst the Samsung Galaxy Pocket Neo has an 850MHz chip with both handsets offering 512MB of RAM. With specs like that they are definitely poles apart from the South Korean company's upcoming flagship, the Samsung Galaxy S4.

The distinguishing feature of these two budget handsets, aimed at the younger generation of smartphone consumers and their parents’ pockets, is their Dual SIM functionality. This may mean the Samsung Galaxy duo will launch in developing markets, but it does mean that they can take two SIM cards for separate business and personal numbers.

Although availability and pricing plans have yet to be announced, Samsung has confirmed that both handsets will launch in dual- and single-SIM varieties, but we expect the UK will only see the single-SIM options.

readmore »»  

Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories arrive on PSN

The PlayStation Store has now been graced with the presence of Grand Theft Auto’s Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories, both of which are now available to download via PSN.

Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories take players back to the Grand Theft Auto 3 stomping ground of the sun-drenched 80s.

Released first, Liberty City Stories takes place prior to the events in GTA 3 and stars Toni Cipriani who has been laying low for a number of years after killing a main for Don Salvatore Leone. On Cipriani’s return to Liberty City, of course Salvatore immediately gives him some more work to do, along with a number of other characters.

Vice City Stories was the sequel to Liberty City stories and allows players to take control of Lance Vance’s brother, Vic. Vic Vance arrives in Vice City as a private in the US army serving in Fort Baxter, but leaves the army in an attempt to make money for his dysfunctional family. He then gets into some rather shady business, including drugs running, with the game even featuring a cameo from Phil Collins.

Originally launched on the PSP, both Grand Theft Auto spin-offs eventually made it to the PS2 and offered a more enjoyable interactive experience with the Dualshock controller. Now Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories can be enjoyed in all their retro glory on the PlayStation 3 via PSN. Both titles are priced at £7.99.

The PlayStation store already offers Grand Theft Auto 3, Grand Theft Auto 4 and its two expansion packs, Grand Theft Auto San Andreas, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City and Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars for players to download.

Rockstar has also said that players should watch out for “announcements on the future availability of other classic PS2 Rockstar titles to come”.

With a Grand Theft Auto 5 release date confirmed for September 17, Rockstar seems to be making sure PlayStation 3 players can have their fill of GTA antics until then.

readmore »»  

HTC One to ship without charger

The HTC One is to become the first flagship handset to come boxed without a charger, network provider O2 has revealed.

An expansion of the network’s environmental ‘Chargers out of the box’ campaign which is looking to cut down on unnecessary components, O2 has revealed that the HTC One will not feature a complimentary charging unit, instead coming packaged only with a USB to microUSB cable.

A move that will see users forced to reuse their existing USB hosting charging units, those snapping up the HTC One on O2 who do not already own such a unit will be able to pick up a standalone charger in-store or online at a reduced price.

With as many as 100 million unused chargers currently doing the rounds, O2 has suggested that its ‘Chargers out of the box’ initiative could eliminate up to 30 million unnecessary chargers per year, an environmental saving of 18,700 tonnes of materials. During a recent trial period, O2 revealed that 82 per cent of customers buying charger-less handsets did not need to fork out for a separate unit.

“The trial we have run over the past six months has given us the confidence that customers are ready to buy phones without chargers – to the point where O2 and HTC were prepared to apply this initiative to one of this year’s biggest handset launches,” Ronan Dunne, CEO of O2 said.

“By ensuring that we have the right support and information for customers in our stores and on our website, the vast majority are willing to consider and respond to our environmental argument for taking a phone without the charger.”

Whilst some consumers might feel irked by the lack of a boxed charger, and others question if the cost savings are being passed on, O2 has revealed that it intends to offer all phones charger free by 2015.

Speaking on the move to offer the HTC One without a charger, Philip Blair, the Taiwanese manufacturer’s Head of EMEA said: “Alongside O2, we have undertaken a really significant piece of consumer education. With so many chargers already in circulation, it’s important to remind customers to consider using the charging units and mains adapters that they already own.

“Applying this scheme to the launch of our flagship handset demonstrates how passionately we feel about this initiative, as well as our collective goal to reduce the amount of waste caused by unnecessary and unused chargers across the UK.”

readmore »»  

Samsung Knox to be infused with Absolute Software security technology

Samsung has signed a partnership with Absolute Software to bring its security software to the forthcoming Samsung Knox Android mobile safety solution.

Launching later this year, Samsung Knox will embed Absolute Software’s patented “persistence technology” into the firmware of Samsung mobile devices like the Samsung Galaxy S4 as a result of this new partnership.

Using the Absolute Software technology, Samsung Galaxy device users will gain access to AbsoluteComputrace or Computrace LoJack for Laptops, allowing them to remotely track, secure and manage their devices across the world.

Samsung Knox is what the company is calling its “comprehensive enterprise mobile solution for work and play”, ensuring Android security from hardware to its applications. It will be accessible via a dedicated app on the home screen and will offer separate business and personal use of a handset. Security Enhanced Android software developed by the National Security Agency and file encryption protection within Samsung Knox offers a variety of enterprise applications for a secure environment.

“As we expand our position in the enterprise market, our customers are demanding enterprise level security solutions. This is what Samsung Knox and Absolute deliver,” said Dr. Injong Rhee, Senior Vice President of the Technology Strategy Group at Samsung. “Absolute’s firmware-persistent technology and managed theft protection services are a feature of Samsung Knox for our enhanced security software and services strategy for the enterprise market.”

Whether users are accessing emails, contacts, calendars, surfing the net, file sharing or using business intelligence applications, Samsung Knox will also enabled existing Android eco-system apps to gain enterprise authorisation for any business user.

“We are excited to partner with the global mobile industry leader, Samsung, to provide enterprise mobility management and theft protection solutions for their devices,” said CEO of Absolute Software John Livingstone. “With Samsung, the leading provider of smartphones and Android tablets, we are extending Absolute’s patented persistence technology across the full spectrum of smart connected mobile services.”

Samsung Knox will launch for Samsung Galaxy mobile devices at a currently undisclosed date later this year. The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S4 flagship handset, fully compatible with the Samsung Knox service will be released on April 26.

readmore »»  

Apps dominate smartphone usage, survey finds

Smartphone usage has become dominated by apps, a new study has found, with up to 80 per cent of handset activity involving downloadable applications.

According to figures collated by analytics firm Flurry, over the past five years smartphone usage has become increasingly tilted towards heavy app use, with the remainder of many users’ smartphone and tablet activities revolving around the web.

“Today, the U.S. consumer spends an average of 2 hours and 38 minutes per day on smartphones and tablets,” the Flurry report revealed. “80 per cent of that time (2 hours and 7 minutes) is spent inside apps and 20 per cent (31 minutes) is spent on the mobile web.”

Somewhat unsurprisingly, app-based gaming accounts for the largest single section of smartphone and tablet usage, with global hits such as Angry Birds and Real Racing 3 helping transform the mobile nature of the gaming sector.

“Gaming apps remain the largest category of all apps with 32 per cent of time spent,” the study revealed. Although the figures showed that “Facebook is second with 18 per cent,” other social networking services such as Twitter and Pinterest account for a further 6 per cent of mobile activity, again highlighting the changing consumer wants and needs.

Having risen to prominence in such a small space of time, the Flurry report has suggested that interest in mobile apps shows no sign of decline, in fact, it has predicted the app market will continue to grow.

“Five years into its existence, the app economy is thriving, with The Wall Street Journal recently estimating annual revenue of $25 billion (£16.54bn). Once again, we have to appreciate that this economy did not exist until 2008. As we looked for possible signs of slowing, we could not find any, largely due to the fast adoption of tablets just after smartphones.”

Flurry spokespeople added: “In fact, not only is the installed base of devices growing, but also the number of apps consumers use.”

Revealing that the number of consumer launched apps has risen from 7.2 to 7.9 per day since 2010, the report has suggested that this gradual rise shows there is still much more to come from the still fledgling app market.

“This is not a material change, which is a good thing,” the study stated. “To us, the steady growth rate indicates that the app economy is not yet experiencing saturation, as consumers steadily use more apps over time.”

Whilst consumers have grown to love and expect much from smartphone and tablet applications, the Flurry report has warned that this rise in usage is not without consequences.

“The disruptive force of the mobile app economy has created opportunities, rising stars, instant millionaires, dinosaurs and plenty of confusion. However, one undeniable truth is that tablets and smartphones are eating up desktops, and notebooks and apps (including the Facebook app) are eating up the web and peoples’ time.”

readmore »»  

BlackBerry Music set to close

BlackBerry has announced that it will close its music subscription service, BlackBerry Music, in June.

BlackBerry Music has only been in existence for just over a year and a half, but BlackBerry has sent an email out to subscribers announcing that it will close the service on June 2. April will be the last month in which subscribers will be billed for the service.

To make up for the cancellation of its own music streaming subscription service, BlackBerry is offering a 30 day pass to third party offering Rdio, which offers unlimited streaming from a library of more than 18 million songs.

BlackBerry Music launched in August 2011 with the promise of something a little different to the likes of Spotify, which was already the dominant music streaming service in Europe by that point. BlackBerry's offering would feature a social viral element in which you could share your music with other users of the service.

Adding a new friend effectively enabled you to add another 50 tracks to your $4.99 a month subscription allowance. A fine idea, but not when BlackBerry as a brand was already in sharp decline, with sales numbers and its smartphone market share giving way to Apple's iOS and Google's Android platforms.

Of course, BlackBerry has recently relaunched with the all-touch BlackBerry Z10 and its brand new BlackBerry 10 OS. But it seems as if failed relics of the company's previous output, such as BlackBerry Music, have not been invited along for the ride.

Were you one of the few to use BlackBerry Music? Will you miss the service? Let us know in the comments section below, or via the Trusted Reviews Twitter and Facebook feeds.

Via: CrackBerry

readmore »»  

Half of Instagram users now on Android

Just one year after the social photo app belatedly made its way over to Android, Instagram has now announced that half of its users are on the Google platform.

In a blog posting titled 'Instagram for Android: One Year Later,' Instagram has laid out some impressive figures for the filter-obsessed social network app.

The fact that "In less than a day, over a million people downloaded the app" is impressive enough for starters. Even more impressive is the fact that "now nearly half of all Instagrammers use the Android app to share photos with friends, family and the world."

This portion represents at least 50 million downloads, as Instagram burst past the 100 million user mark in February. This is confirmed if you head over to the Instagram Google Play Store, which states that the app has been downloaded between 50 million and 100 million times on the platform.

Instagram took its time arriving on Android. It was a major success on iPhone for 17 months before taking its Android bow, allowing 30 million iOS users to take snaps, apply hip filters, and share the results with others.

Shortly following Instagram's arrival on Android on April 3, 2012, Facebook bought the company for around $1 billion.

Instagram is clearly the hot app of the moment, which in recent months has prompted Nokia to petition the service's developers to create an official Instagram app for Windows Phone 8.

Are you one of those 100 million Instagram users? Do you prefer it to Facebook and Twitter? Let us know in the comments section below, or via the Trusted Reviews Facebook and Twitter feeds.

Via: Cnet

readmore »»  

Loewe Connect ID 55 TV Review

Introduction

On paper the TV industry as it stands today isn’t really suited to Loewe’s business model. For starters, with most people feeling distinctly strapped for cash, the German brand’s premium pricing policy hardly seems likely to win it countless new fans. The other problem is that design-led products from relatively small brands can take a long time to develop, whereas the pace of technological change and product turn over in today’s TV market is best described as frantic.

Loewe Connect ID 55 - Design

Happily, though, Loewe’s recently released Connect ID series looks pretty well up to modern speed. In fact, the 55-inch version, the Connect ID 55, looks little short of spectacular, as a gorgeously robust gloss-black bezel around the top, left and right edges runs dramatically into a striking silvery bottom edge and contrasts starkly with a cool white finish on the set’s rear. It’s a true ‘360-degree’ design.

What’s more, the Connect ID 55 looks is available in a bewildering number of colour and styling options. Indeed, the main reason Loewe TVs cost more than most is that the brand offers what is easily the TV industry’s most bespoke solution. For example, you can choose from any combination of two frame colours (high-gloss black or high-gloss white) and six colours (black, white, silver, orange, green and beige) for the strip along the bottom.

Then there are the various stand options available to you. You can mount it on a simple but beautifully made aluminium table-top stand, fit it atop a glinting silver pole floor stand, or fasten it atop some striking furniture Loewe has designed especially to accompany its TV range. If you’re feeling a bit saucy, you can even slide it onto a pole that runs all the way between your ceiling and your floor!

Check out Loewe’s website for all the aesthetic options available (Loewe claims a remarkable 4320 individual design options). From all this you probably won’t be surprised to learn that the 'ID' part of the Connect ID 55’s name stands for Individual Design.

Loewe Connect ID 55 - Features

It’s not just the Connect ID 55’s design that's ‘bespoke’, either. You can also customise its features to some extent, choosing, for instance, whether or not you want Loewe’s DR HDD recording system built in. If you do (and you might, since it delivers immaculate recordings from the TV’s built-in HD tuners), you’ll need to add £300 to the Connect ID 55’s £2,495 starting price.

You can also opt to use your Connect ID 55 to drive a Loewe home cinema speaker system, complete with streamlined control over all aspects of the wider package.

By the time you’ve taken into account its design and feature flexibility, it’s fair to say the Connect ID 55 really does deliver on Loewe’s promise of allowing your TV to be pretty much whatever you want it to be. Even so, it will be kind of nice if the set’s design chutzpah can be joined with plenty of performance quality – especially now that the new Connect’s network skills no longer look as cutting edge as those of the original Connect series did back in 2009.

There’s nothing specifically wrong with the Connect ID 55’s connections, with their highlights of three HDMIs, a D-Sub PC port, built-in Wi-Fi and two USB ports. The network options support DLNA video, photo and music file streaming as well as access to Loewe’s MediaNet online platform, while the USBs also support playback of all the key file formats. However, there isn’t anything truly out of the ordinary here that justify the TV’s suggestive Connect name.

Loewe Connect ID 55 - Specification

The Connect ID 55’s screen is – inevitably – a full HD affair driven by edge LED lighting, while picture processing comes courtesy of Loewe’s Individual chip. This facilitates motion compensation (delivering a 200Hz effect), colour, noise reduction, and sharpness boosting elements. Also on offer for those interested in it is 3D playback, of the active, full HD variety.

readmore »»