Nexus S sales held up by Best Buy activation failures?

Potential Nexus S buyers may encounter difficulties when attempting to purchase one of the new handsets, reportedly due to problems with Best Buy's activation system. One buyer claims to have been prevented from purchasing the device with a T-Mobile contract, which would have dropped the price well below the $530 tag on the unlocked model, the customer told Boy Genius Report.

It is unclear if the problems are widespread or limited to a small number of locations. Many buyers easily purchased the devices with T-Mobile contracts through Best Buy's online portal, while others report success with in-store activations. An extensive problem with the activation system would effectively force customers to purchase the unlocked variant, as Best Buy is the exclusive seller in the US market.

Google already released a firmware update to address several minor issues, including browser lag and other bugs with Google Maps. The search giant has also delayed the UK launch until December 22, though the price was unexpectedly reduced by 22 percent.

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Touchscreen makers thrive on iPad, ship 26.3m for tablets

The launch of the iPad almost single-handedly drove the rise of large touchscreens this year, the NPD Group's DisplaySearch found today. About 6.3 million touchscreens large enough for tablets and touch-aware netbooks shipped in the first half of 2010, but the rise of the iPad and relatively minor contributions from the Samsung Galaxy Tab will have boosted that number to about 20 million for the second half. Although declining to mention Apple by name, the researchers noted that key iPad supplier Wintek produced the "majority" of the large touchscreen hardware for the year.

The analyst team didn't break down shipments by platform or by manufacturer outside of these clues. Android tablets outside of Samsung still ship in far fewer numbers. The Windows tablet market was estimated at one point to be reaching 1.25 million computers in all of 2010, only some of which have screens small enough to count in the size category. Dell's Inspiron Duo was one of the few launches from a major manufacturer in the second half of the year.

Apple shipped about 7.5 million iPads in spring and summer; multiple analysts have expected it to roughly double the combined amount in the fall due to the holiday rush, leading it to represent 15 million or more of the 26.3 million total.

The numbers are likely to surge in 2011 and could lead to projected capacitive touch like that on the iPad taking over from cheaper but less precise resistive screens, most of which are made in mainland China. Microsoft's Kinect system for the Xbox 360 has also marked the first real wide-scale implementation of image based "touch" and could give it a first real footprint.

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Gigabyte outs M1005, Q2005 netbooks with dual-core Atom

Gigabyte has released two new netbooks, the Q2005 and the M1005. Both of the 10-inch models center on Intel's dual-core Atom 1.5GHz N550. Windows 7 Starter or Home Premium. The netbooks are unusually configurable to 2GB of RAM, and as much as a 500GB hard drive.

Bluetooth 3.0 is standard on the M1005, and available as an option on the Q2005. Neither offers integrated broadband wireless. Other differences are relatively minor. The Q2005 has a 100Mbps Ethernet jack, a 0.3-megapixel webcam, a 38-in-1 card reader and either three-cell or six-cell batteries. The M1005 incorporates gigabit Ethernet, a 1.3-megapixel webcam, and a four-cell battery. The card reader on the M1005 handles four formats.

The M1005 recalls the M1022, upgrading the older model with a dual-core Atom N550 processor and Intel GMA 3150 video. The M1005 ships with the same docking station, which contains earphone, microphone, USB and RJ-45 replicator ports.

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Motorola's Android 2.4 tablet named Droid Xoom, stuck on 3G

Motorola's Xoom trademark may be a reflection of its Android tablet's final name, tips alleged very late on Wednesday. The Honeycomb-based tablet is now though to be getting the Droid Xoom name in the US and could be a Verizon exclusive in the US as a result. Despite hopes that the tablet would be a 4G flagship, Droid-Life's sources heard it wouldn't have LTE built-in and would be limited to EVDO 3G "for now."

One earlier tip had suggested it might get a 4G upgrade through USB, although no Android devices so far have supported outside cellular modems.

Virtually all of the finer details of the tablet have been leaked in advance. As Google's reference tablet for Honeycomb, recently tracked online as Android 2.4, it will use NVIDIA's dual-core, 1GHz Tegra 2 processor and should support 1080p video when played over HDMI. The 10-inch screen onboard can handle up to 1280x800. Motorola will give the Droid Xoom 512MB of RAM and 32GB of storage built-in, with a five-megapixel rear camera and a front two-megapixel camera for photos.

Honeycomb itself is the first version of Android optimized for tablets and has a number of core apps optimized for larger screen sizes, such as e-mail. Legacy apps will behave differently than they do on the iPad, running in a window on the screen rather than scaling to fit the view. Google has also taken to moving all of the navigation controls on to the screen and doesn't need any front-facing hardware buttons.

The Droid Xoom will be shown at CES, but it may not ship right away. Early talk has put its release in February at the earliest, given the timing for the new OS, and that many other companies hoping to use Honeycomb might have to wait until late March or afterwards to release their own slates. Most expect Apple to have at least unveiled, if not shipped, its next iPad by the March timeframe.

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RIM: No problems with Blackberry PlayBook battery

RIM has issued a statement in an attempt to stymie reports that its forthcoming flagship PlayBook tablet is facing possible delays due to issues with its battery. Kaufman Bros analyst Shaw Wu made the claims and said that the issues revolved around RIM�s use of the QNX OS, which was not originally optimized for tablet devices. RIM�s statement refutes these claims and insists that any issues that might have been detected are only in non-optimized, pre-beta devices.

"Any testing or observation of battery life to date by anyone outside of RIM would have been performed using pre-beta units that were built without power management implemented," the company said. "RIM is on track with its schedule to optimize the BlackBerry PlayBook�s battery life and looks forward to providing customers with a professional grade tablet that offers superior performance with comparable battery life."

Based on RIM�s statement, the Blackberry Playbook can still be expected to ship by sometime between February and March.

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New Trojan targeting Android mobile devices

Mobile security firm Lookout has issued a security alert about a new Trojan affecting Android mobile devices. Dubbed �Geinimi� the Trojan is so far only affecting Android devices in China, but has the potential to spread across the globe. Describing the Trojan as the most sophisticated that it has discovered to date affecting the Android platform, Lookout also purports that the Geinimi Trojan is also the first Android Trojan to display botnet-like capabilities.

The Trojan installs itself on an unsuspecting user�s device by being �grafted� onto repackaged versions of legitimate applications, at this stage mainly games, and by being distributed through third-party Chinese Android app markets. While the threat posed isn�t entirely clear at this stage, the Trojan is using the legitimate app to request permission to access permissions over and above normal levels for each app affected. Possibilities for the renegade code include developing a malicious ad network or building a botnet.

The news follows a warning from McAfee issued yesterday that suggested that this type of attack will become more frequent, especially in unsupervised application markets such as those that are proliferating around the Android platform.

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LG Announces The LZ9700, A 72-inch LED Monster

LG is blowing up the CES spot this year by introducing what will soon be the largest 3D enabled LED TV, the LZ9700.  It measures a ridiculous 72-inches and produces images in both 3D and 2D. LG is mum on all the specs, but we do know that it will sport a 240hz refresh rate, 1920�1080 resolution, local LED dimming, USB inputs, DLNA compatible, Internet app enabled and LG�s Magic Motion Remote Control.

iPhone 4 To Be Available at Verizon

If you listening to rumor around the corner, I am pretty sure that you will hear something about the availability of iPhone 4 on Verizon. However according to some reliable sources, Digitimes is quite pretty sure that there will be around million to 6 million CDMA iPhones to be shipped to Verizon from Taiwan.

However that is all we can say. What will Verizon do with this large amount of iPhone? What will the price be? There is no official words from Verizon yet. I guess there will be a big announcement at CES 2011 if the availability of iPhone 4 on Verizon is true.

[Source]

Android App Store Has More than 200,000 App for Download

It is a very fast growing to see Android can pass 200,000 applications for download that soon. However now seem like it won�t take long to see Android application store beats iOS. It is a very great advantage for Android to attract many big manufactures to get its OS on their smartphone that even Nokia also has its N8 with Android.

[androlib]

Exolife iPhone 4 battery case review

Over the past few weeks I have been testing out Exogear�s Exolife battery case for the iPhone 4 and I have to say it�s not like any battery case you�ve used with your iPhone before. That�s because it is the thinnest and lightest offering on the market. The Exolife hardly adds any weight or thickness to your iPhone 4 so it�s like you�re using a regular case- but you get a battery with it too.

The case itself is made from durable polycarbonate and does a good job of protected the bottom, top, back, and sides of your iPhone 4. The case is two pieces: a back piece with the battery system and a piece that goes around the iPhone 4's stainless steel antenna band. This holds the two pieces together in addition to providing protection to the antenna band. Click read more for the full review:

Now to the battery. Exogear claims the Exogear will double your iPhone 4's battery life on a full charge. The 1500 mAh battery system promises an additional 7 hours of talk time, 6 hours of web browsing, 40 hours of music listening, 10 hours of movie watching, and 300 hours of standby time. In my tests, Exogear�s claims mostly live up to be true. If you need serious battery life out of your phone and you need it to last for a few days or even a week (with moderate usage) the Exolife is the way to go.

This product is also perfect for anybody who wants to charge their iPhone 4 only every few days or for heavy iPhone users who have a difficult time making it through the day on a single built-in charge. This is also perfect for gamers as some of the highly graphic intense games use a lot of battery life. The case itself charges via mini-USB (cable included with case) and the neat thing is that you can charge both the iPhone 4 and the case with a single cable (works with iTunes sync too).

Back the case itself. It has access to the top headphone jack, sleep/wake/power button, a hole for the back camera and flash, and a hole for the side controls: volume up/down buttons and the silent/ringer switch. The case has a battery meter on the back to show you much juice the case itself has left. There is also a button on the bottom of the case to turn the case on and off when you need to. The case even turns itself off when it does not need to be used so you save power and battery life at the same time. The only downside is that the case�s front is not really protected but there is not much you can do about that if you want a battery charging case of this style with these described features.

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Pictureka iPhone Review

Pictureka is the latest Hasbro board game to hit the iDevices. This is based on the popular object-finding game, but the iPhone and iPad editions also offer a fun single-player mode. The goal is to find a specific number of designated objects as quickly as possible. At first, Pictureka offers a small challenge. Just find three letters or two things with hair. But soon, you are hammered with a stream of tasks and not much time to locate everything.

There are plenty of hidden object games in the App Store for both the iPhone and iPad. Pictureka stands out for its multiple play modes and art direction. I really dig Pictureka's eccentric style. This isn't exactly a colorful game, but in a way, its limited color scheme actually helps you zero in on objects. Both versions of Pictureka contain multiplayer as well as a single-player adventure mode, although the iPad offers same-screen multiplayer while the iPhone edition uses pass-and-play.

Considering Pictureka's art style and wacky sound effects, it seems like EA had kids in mind. But some of the challenges are too obtuse. I was asked to find three things with spots or stains. That's not much to go on, and because I couldn't find anything that immediately matched the category like a soiled shirt or a spotted dog, I just ended up just tapping everywhere on the screen until I stumbled upon the correct targets. That's not exactly the definition of fun. To be fair, this is not a complaint unique to Pictureka. Little Things, my favorite object-finder for the iPad, originally suffered from unintentionally misleading descriptions until a helpful update cleared up the text.

The iPad continues to prove itself to be an excellent destination for board games, although the price difference between the iPhone and iPad versions is discouraging. Pictureka would be an ideal universal app because it's just flat art. That's easy to scale. Come on, EA. If Epic can make the powerful Infinity Blade a universal app, then there's no easily explainable reason not to do the same with something basic like Pictureka.

Closing Comments
Pictureka is a good iDevice recreation of the popular Hasbro board game, but it�s not perfect. Some of the object definitions are just not helpful and that leads to some very disappointing failures. It�s one thing if I cannot find five letters. That�s on me. But the obtuse descriptions frustrate. It�s also too bad Pictureka isn�t universal. However, the excellent art direction and addition of a single-player mode help balance things out.

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CES 2011 Preview: Tablets

Google's Android Honeycomb will change the face of tablets in 2011�but its presence at CES will be limited.

This time last year, the tech world was holding its collective breath for the "slate" device Apple was heavily rumored to be releasing. A few weeks after CES, we had the Apple iPad, and a new product category with a clear leader was officially born. Since then, it feels like someone poured water on the tablet category or fed it after midnight. The sheer multitude of tablets seems to multiply like gremlins, and many of the products are equipped with operating systems that have a few gremlins of their own. CES 2011, nonetheless, will be remembered as the opening bell for the year of the tablet. Thus far, only two true contenders, Apple's iPad and Samsung's Android-based Galaxy Tab, have emerged as viable, enviable tablets. In about a week, that will all change�maybe.

By far, the most anticipated product in the tablet category is the 10-inch device headed our way from Motorola, rumored to be called the Xoom�but remember, the iPad was supposed to be called the iSlate. What differentiates Motorola's tablet from all other Android-based tablets�and we'll get to them in a bit�is that it will run on Google's Android Honeycomb operating system. Honeycomb is the latest version of Android, but most importantly, it is optimized for tablets. As Motorola's viral marketing campaign suggests, the Galaxy Tab is running a version of Android better suited for cell phones. Expect the announcements from Motorola to dominate the headlines during CES.

Another hotly anticipated product at CES 2011 will be RIM's BlackBerry PlayBook, equipped with a 7-inch display and RIM's own operating system. The PlayBook weighs just under a pound. We're excited to bring you hands-on stories for both the Motorola tablet and the non-Android-based PlayBook during CES. Count on it!

The arrival of Honeycomb, however, is truly the most significant development in non-Apple tablet devices since the category began, but that hasn't stopped a throng of manufacturers from making Android 2.2-based tablets and selling them at price-points slightly to significantly lower than the iPad prior to Honeycomb's availablity. At the top of the pile, the Galaxy Tab is a fine example of how Android�even non-tablet versions of Android�can be attractively and usefully implemented in a large, touch-screen device. At the bottom of the heap, the Cherrypal CherryPad shows us just how little having Android as your operating system means.

At the heart of this matter: Google is picky about whom it will support in terms of tablet manufacturers. So, Samsung and Motorola have clearly had help in designing their new products to work seamlessly with the Android OS. They have access to the Android Market, stream-lined graphics, and so on. Manufacturers of the Cherrypal ilk, from which I estimate there will be roughly a million representatives at CES 2011, do not receive support from Google, but are still able to use the open Android platform. Access to the Android Market�Google's answer to Apple's App Store�is, however, denied. Imagine the iPad without apps. Now imagine the iPad without apps and a lousy touch screen�you get the idea. Expect an abundance of such devices from CES 2011. We will be there to document as many as we can, with an open-mind, but, perhaps, lowered expectations.

Since Samsung has already introduced the Galaxy Player�a Galaxy Tab for the iPod touch market�in other countries, seeing one pop at CES 2011 for the U.S. market shouldn't come as a surprise either. Think of it as the best hope Android has of competing with the iPod touch�we are certainly intrigued, though it is not technically a tablet.

The implementation of Honeycomb, however, should be huge later on in 2011. I expect to see several affordable Honeycomb tablets by mid-2011 or so. Of course, by then, there will be a new iPad, probably with cameras and possibly in varying sizes, that tablet manufacturers will be scrambling to catch up to. And, of course, Microsoft always looms as a threat, but thus far, the 'Soft has stayed largely out of the tablet race. I expect to see a tablet-friendly operating system from Microsoft this year�intended to power tablets from partnered manufacturers, but rumors of a Zune tablet are, thus far, just that. A shame�the Zune HD was fantastic, just a little too late. A Zune HD Tablet, however, would be perfectly timed at CES�just don't hold your breath.

Here's hoping Honeycomb is all the tech world wants it to be, that Motorola's new tablet is the first of many options, and that 2011 sees the blossoming�not bloating�of the tablet market.

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ASUS N53JF Review

The market for 15-inch laptops might be pretty packed, but the ASUS N53JF-XE1 with its powerful Intel Core i5 processor and Nvidia GeForce GT 425M graphics packs more punch than the competition. Did we mention it also has a 1080p screen? Read our review to find out more.

The specifications of our review unit of the ASUS N53JF (N53JF-XE1) are as follows:

• 15.6-inch 720p (1920x1080) glossy panel with LED backlighting
• Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
• Intel Core i5-460M dual-core processor (2.53GHz/2.8GHz Turbo Mode)
• Intel HM55 chipset
• Switchable graphics via Nvidia Optimus technology:
  * Nvidia GeForce GT 425M w/ 1GB DDR3 video memory
  * Integrated Intel HD graphics
• 4GB DDR3-1066 dual-channel RAM (2x 2GB)
• 500GB 7200RPM Seagate hard drive (ST9500420AS)
• Atheros AR9285 802.11b/g/n Wireless LAN
• Blu-ray reader/DVD burner combo drive
• 1-year global limited warranty w/ 1 year accidental damage coverage
• 6-cell Li-ion battery (48Wh)
• Weight: 6.5 lbs.
• Dimensions: 15.6� (L) x 10.6� (D) x 1.65� (H)
• MSRP: $1,049

Overall, the ASUS N53JF-XE1 is a pretty well-equipped notebook that competes well against systems like the Dell XPS 15, HP ENVY 14 and Lenovo IdeaPad Y560D. It isn't too often that you'll find a 15-inch laptop with a 1080p display, powerful processor and graphics, and even a USB 3.0 port for a street price of just over $1,000.

Build and Design
The N53JF has a fairly typical notebook clamshell design with a mixture of black, charcoal and silver plastics and aluminum. The only notable design feature that really catches our eyes is the massive speaker grill located below the screen after you open the lid. Not only is this a great location for speakers compared to many of the newest laptops with speakers located on the bottom of the notebook, but it's clear that ASUS designers want people to pay attention to these speakers (more on that later in this review).

The build quality of the N53JF is nothing short of excellent. From the simple yet stylish aluminum screen lid to the surprisingly ridgid chassis, this is one of the most solid notebooks in the 15-inch multimedia laptop category. Many cheaper notebooks in this class suffer from questionable structural support (you can literally "bend" those low-cost notebook by twisting them between your hands) but ASUS clearly engineered the the N53JF to handle daily use and abuse. The lid resists flexing as well thanks to its aluminum backing; no ripples appear on the screen when pushed in from behind either. Fit and finish is also quite good; there are minimal gaps between parts and no unfinished edges. The Blu-ray drive in our review sample looked ever so slightly misaligned with the chassis, but I doubt most owners would ever notice a cosmetic minor detail like that.

Speaking of subtle cosmetic details, I want to draw your attention to a simple security feature that ASUS was smart enough to include on the N53JF: a security lens cover. It seems like every year since new laptops started shipping with a built-in webcams we read news reports here in the US about someone illegally using a notebook webcam to spy on people without their knowledge. ASUS was paying attention to those news stories as well and developed a simple plastic cover that you can slide over the webcam lens to prevent people from watching you. This is such a easy thing to do that we're amazed every notebook manufacturer isn't doing this. Yes, you can open up Windows Device Manager and disable your webcam, but the overwhelming majority of consumers aren't tech savvy enough to do that. The ASUS security lens cover makes it much easier to protect your privacy.

Weighing in at roughly six and a half pounds (not including the power adapter) the N53JF is hardly the lightest notebook in its class. The 15-inch Dell Inspiron 15R tips the scales at well under six pounds and the Lenovo IdeaPad Y560D weoighs just 5.95 pounds by comparison. It is also thicker than usual at 1.65 inches (roughly a quarter of an inch thicker than the competition).

Keyboard and Touchpad
The N53JF has an traditional-style keyboard with some non-traditional elements. For starters, the keys are essentially flat similar to the island/Chiclet-style keyboards which are becoming far more popular these days. ASUS was kind enough to include a dedicated number pad to the right of the keyboard for those data-entry junkies out there, but since the number pad needs to fit in the smaller footprint of a 15-inch notebook the number pad is a little too close to the main keyboard keys and also gets in the way of the arrow keys. The keyboard keys themselves also have "mushy" feedback when pressed and the entire keyboard flexs or bends under heavy typing pressure.

I'm a little sad to see that ASUS didn't include a backlit keyboard on this notebook. Most multimedia systems in this price range now have keyboards with LED backlighting to make it easier to see the keys in dim environments. Since we're starting to see a few $700 notebooks with backlit keyboards it seems a bit odd that the N53JF doesn't have one.

The Elan touchpad has a matte surface similar to the texture the aluminum lid but with a darker color to match the palmrests. The surface makes it easy to slide your fingertips across the touchpad even with moist or dry fingers. Responsiveness seemed normal with minimal lag during cursor movement. The buttons provide excellent feedback however make a distinct click when pressed but there is no separation between the left and right touchpad buttons on the rocker bar. This means that it's fairly easy to press the wrong side of the touchpad bar if you aren't paying attention and make a right click when you want to make a left click.

Upcoming ASUS Notebooks with Intel Sandy Bridge Leaked

Information has been leaked about unreleased notebooks from ASUS based on Intel's upcoming "Sandy Bridge" mobile platform. All feature the Core i7-2630QM quad-core processor with Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost technologies.

The ASUS G73SW is similar to the current G73JW save for the processor. Specifications include a 17.3-inch 1920 x 1080 resolution display, 8 GB of RAM, USB 3.0, two hard drive bays, Blu-ray drive, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 460M graphics card. A smaller 15.6-inch version will be available, the G53SW.

Also leaked were the N53SV, featuring a 15.6-inch 1366 x 768 display, and the N73SV with a 17.3-inch 1920 x 1080 display; both feature the new Nvidia GeForce GT 540M graphics.

Pricing for the G73SW according to the leaked information is about $2,500; the G53SW about $1,299; and the N53SV/N73SV start at about $1,200. The notebooks should ship in January.

CES 2011 Preview: Tablet, tablets everywhere

Tablets will be a main focus of the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show, or CES, with several companies showing off their answer to the iPad.

According to TechRadar, the Korea Times has heard from industry sources in Korea that LG will launch a new Android tablet at CES 2011 and it will be running Honeycomb/Android 3.0 at CES 2011. It will have an 8.9-inch screen.

According to the sources, LG is attempting to keep up with neighbors at Samsung, who are also rumored to be releasing a second version of their Galaxy Tab 2.

Asus made some waves this week with its pre-CES teases of its Eee Pads, a hinged tablet, with a QWERTY keyboard and a traditional one. The company recently leaked shots of the tablets to Gizmodo and Slashgear. PCMag suspects that two of the rumored Eee Pad tablets will be Android-based, though not running Honeycomb.

MSI also gave a sneak peek at its tablet, the WindPad 100W, in Taipei. NetbookNews.com wrote it was a little disappointed in the latest look at the tablet, saying not much had changed since the last glimpse they had of the tablet in June. The Web site says the 10-inch tablet will have an angled camera as well as a front-facing camera, HDMI, 4 in 1 card reader, SIM card slot, 2 x USB 2.0 and 32GB SSD.

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Asus teases Eee Pad EP71, EP101, EP102, EP121 tablets

Asus is set to unveil a new line of tablet computers next week at CES. The company teased us with a video of the 12.1 inch EP121 a few days ago, followed by a few close-up photos of various tablets. But the company also did something a little sneaky � a day after uploading the teaser video for the company�s new Eee Pad Ep121, Asus uploaded a second version of the video with chalk drawings of four tablets toward the end.

As we already knew, the EP121 will be a tablet with a large display and an (optional?) keyboard docking station. The company is also set to launch a line of smaller tablets, and now we have a few names.

The Eee Pad EP102 appears to have a slide-out keyboard. The video features a brief animation of the machine transforming from a slate into a machine with a screen and a physical keyboard.

The EP102, on the other hand, appears to have a detachable keyboard, much like the larger EP121. If Asus is sticking with its usual naming conventions, the EP10x models will have 10 inch displays.

The EP71 doesn�t appear to have any sort of keyboard, but unlike the others it has a stylus, which would seem to indicate that this model could have a resistive display, an active digitizer, or one of those newfangled capacitive displays with support for a stylus (or maybe just a special capacitive stylus). It will probably have a 7 inch screen.

You can check out the new video after the break.

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How To Run Android Apps, Including Kindle, On A Nook (AMZN, BKS, GOOG)

If you got a Nook Color instead of a Kindle 3 for Christmas and you're feeling left out, have no fear: a simple hack posted by Blog Kindle lets your Nook read books in Amazon's Kindle format...and run just about any other Android application as well.

The hack works because the Nook is actually a bare-bones Android tablet that automatically starts the Nook application and doesn't let you run any other Android apps. But users can download a rootkit that overrides the Nook's presets, then enable the Android Market and go to town.

Blog Kindle has detailed instructions, including links to download all the necessary software.

Following the instructions might break your Nook and will almost certainly void your warranty. But if you want an Android tablet on the cheap, it might be worth the risk.

At one point, rumors were circulating that Barnes and Noble would officially let users run Android 2.2 on the device and enable the Android Market in January. But B&N shot those rumors down, saying that it would only enable its own app store on the device. It's a safe bet that app store won't include Kindle.

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Android Mobile Malware Has Botnet-like Traits

Hackers are aiming for users of Google's Android mobile operating system with a malicious application that harvests personal information and sends it to a remote server.

The malware, which has been named "Geinimi," appears to be the first one that has botnet-like capabilities targeted at the Android platform, said Kevin Mahaffey, chief technology officer for Lookout Mobile Security, which develops mobile security software.

Geinimi appears to target Chinese-speaking users of Android, and Lookout was tipped off to Geinimi after a user wrote a post concerned about it on a forum, Mahaffey said.

Lookout researchers, which posted a writeup on Geinimi, have found that it has been wrapped into legitimate free and paid games for Android users with those games' developers unaware their applications are being used as a lure.

"We have been in touch with developers to let them know," Mahaffey said.

Those tampered applications are appearing on third-party web sites offering Android applications that have not been vetted for security. Some of those programs have appeared to be downloaded thousands of times.

The company is still analyzing Geinimi, and it isn't clear what its creators are aiming to do with a victim's phone. But several aspects of the malware have already raised concern.

The malware communicates with a central command-and-control server. The server can issue commands to a phone remotely, such as to download or uninstall software. The user of the Android phone is prompted and must approve either action, but it still raises concern, Mahaffey said.

"It might be a vector to install other potentially malicious applications," he said.

Geinimi also sends the Android device's location and other hardware identifiers, such as the device's International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number and SIM card information, to a remote server every five minutes. It can also send a list of the Android device's installed applications. The malware can contact up to 10 domain names that are used to upload the information to the remote server.

It is Geinimi's ability to contact multiple domains and obtain instructions from a command-and-control server that Lookout decided to say it has botnet-like capabilities, Mahaffey said.

Still, Geinimi has not revealed either a clear profit motive or decisive data-theft motivation, although Lookout is continuing its analysis. "It could be anything from a very invasive advertising network up to a full-blown attempt to create a botnet," Mahaffey said.

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NEW KHOU 11 apps for Android, BlackBerry and iPhone

KHOU 11 has launched new apps for the Android, BlackBerry and iPhone, making it easier than ever for you to stay up to date with what's going on around Houston, Galveston and all surrounding counties.

Get the latest KHOU 11 news stories, video, weather radars, sports, live traffic maps and more. If you see it on KHOU.com, you'll see it with our new KHOU 11 apps.

The KHOU 11 app is fast and easy to use, but best of all, it's free, with no registration required.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for the KHOU 11 mobile app today!

Here are a few simple tips to help you enjoy the new KHOU 11 app for iPhone, Android and BlackBerry.

Tip 1: Update your phone's software first.

Be sure that you have recently connected your phone to your computer to get the latest updated 'operating software' for your phone. iPhone users, for example, won't be allowed to download the KHOU 11 iPhone app until they've updated their iPhone operating software, which is needed to take full advantage of KHOU 11's new app features.

Tip 2: When it comes to smart phones, age matters.

Our new KHOU 11 app is optimized for the latest smartphones and those to come. For example, the iPhone app is very fast on the iPhone 4 whereas it's slightly slower on the older iPhone 3GS. Likewise, there are many many 'flavors' of Android phones. The app works best on the newest phones. Owners of older Android phones may experience page freezing and loading issues.

Tip 3: The new mobile navigation scrolls, left and right

Users of our previous app are used to "tapping" on content. We have greatly expanded the amount of content on our new KHOU 11 app - and added two levels of navigation to the top of the app. All you need to do to scan our categories of content is "flick" the two top rows of topics either left or right.

Tip 4: Still have questions or comments. Let us help!

Smart phones are getting smarter all the time, but there's still lots to learn. Sometimes the problems are with the phone and sometimes they are with the app. Either way, we are here to help. If you're having a problem with our app, please let us know and we'll do what we can to help. Just e-mail us at web@khou.com.

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The Apple iOS vs. Android Fight in 2011

As TMCnet's Tom Keating mentions on his blog, there are many factors to consider in the fight for mobile supremecy between Apple, Google, Android and yes, even Microsoft. Tom's point about Microsoft injecting itself into the Android relationship with carriers to become the defacto search engine has even begun to happen already.
But what caught my eye regarding the controversy is will Apple become the defacto high-end alternative that is priced out of the reach of most of the market?
The answer may lie in production numbers alone.
You see, the Apple hardware is virtually unchanged from iPod to iPhone to iPad so economies of scale work in the company's favor.


However, Android devices are gaining massive share. If these gadgets can also leverage the same hardware with other mobile operating systems then they too can take advantage of the same efficiencies. Perhaps Samsung and HTC are best positioned in this regard as an HTC device, for example, can do double-duty as an Android and Windows Phone 7.
A while back I asked Nokia execs about the disadvantage they had in supporting a plethora of form factors while Apple gets away with one and they didn't have a good answer.
But if a phone manufacturer can leverage multiple operating systems to drive scale they can then compete more effectively with Apple. Again, companies like HTC and Samsung may be in a great position here.

When I saw the Droid X I immediately thought of how the PC overtook Apple's share because of the massive price/performance advantage. If we take my personal experience of implementing desktop publishing back in the 80s, the price for a loaded Mac was over $4,000 if my memory serves and you could get a PC clone with equivalent or greater processing power for less than half the cost.

But in the smartphone and tablet markets the prices are in the hundreds not thousands, meaning even if you can undercut Apple on price because the Android market explodes with growth and Windows Phone 7 devices use the same hardware, it is tough to see the prices for non-Apple devices having a dramatic price advantage. Obviously this is a fluid situation and one I will watch closely.
But to me the plethora of Android devices is the challenge Apple will have to contend with - as well as the plethora of marketing campaigns. Remember Gateway Computers for example? They were a hot PC maker for years using the branding of cows in massive magazine inserts to push their cause and increase awareness.
Then you had Dell, HP, Compaq, Acer, Toshiba and a slew of other companies - each with its own marketing ideas and each with its own successful sales strategies.

But more than marketing it is the form factors which will be worth watching closely. Is the ideal tablet size larger or smaller than the iPad? Is not supporting Flash going to be a factor in Apple losing lots of sales? I already know people who have returned iPads because they don't support Flash - will this become a differentiator for other device makes in 2011?


Consumer electronics have become more important to consumers over the years and this trend is fantastic for the market, especially Apple who is the hands down leader and trend-setter. Next year, we will get to see if other companies are able to at least equal the street cred of Cupertino.
Don't expect a dull moment in 2011 or beyond for that matter. And we'll see lots of noise from the Android community at CES and TMC's ITEXPO in January and February.
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Asus Teases Eee Pad Tablet Shots Before CES

In the days before CES 2011, Asus is dribbling out a few close-up, high-res images of its upcoming Eee Pad tablets. One of the three "tablets" is clearly armed with a (most likely) full QWERTY keyboard, making it less of a tablet and more of a notebook. The photos�and other leaked information about the line ASUS plans to announce next week�were posted on Gizmodo, Slashgear, and Techinstyle.tv earlier today.

It is unclear whether the keyboard on the hybrid tablet is "slide-out" or transforms like the Dell Inspiron Duo, as Gizmodo theorizes. Last week, Slashgear published reports that the Eee Pad will feature one tablet that runs on Windows 7, powered by Intel's Oak Trail chips. If this is the case, don't be surprised to see Asus tablets pop up at Microsoft announcements next week, as Microsoft is heavily rumored to be focusing on a tablet-version of Windows and showcasing hardware from partners at CES 2011.

The other two rumored Eee Pad tablets are likely to be Android-based, though it seems unlikely they will be armed with Honeycomb. Thus far, only Motorola's upcoming tablet seems to have the latest Android update, which is intended to work on tablets, unlike Andriod 2.2 (FroYo), which is available on tablets (like the Samsung Galaxy Tab), but is not specifically designed for them.

By: Tim Gideon
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Samsung Adds i-Function Lens Compatibility To NX10, Forming the NX11

Samsung today announced an update to their NX10 mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, just about a year after we first heard about it. The NX11 is actually not much of an improvement (which is not to say it�s bad); the addition of i-Function lenses and an adjustment of the grip seem to be the only new features.

Beyond that you have the same 3? 640�480 AMOLED screen, 720p/30 video, and an APS-C sensor producing 14.6 megapixels. It�s got a hot shoe, a new lens priority mode, and all the usual accessories. I remember some disappointing early reports of the i-Function lenses, though, so make sure you try this out in person before making the commitment. The NX11 should be available in February for $649 with an 18-55mm i-Function lens.

Samsung also announced a new camera, the WB700, a sort of compact megazoom. It�s got a 18x optical zoom, puts out 1080p and 16 megapixels, and� there you have it.

Lastly, there are two new i-Function lenses for those of you interested in such things: a 20mm F/2.8 pancake and a 20-50mm F/3.5-5.6 zoom.

(Incredibly, the PR for these items did not come with pictures. Not sure how that kind of thing actually happens, but there you go. We�ll update with pictures shortly.)

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CES: Samsung's WB700 18x compact promises quiet movie zooming

The most remarkable thing about the Samsung WB700 is its 18x 24-432mm lens crammed into a body that's just less than an inch thick. Of course an 18x zoom will only get you so much attention, so Samsung's decided to lead with the camera's Smart Zoom feature that digitally extends the zoom range to 24x. (Judging by the sparse details in the press release, it sounds similar to Panasonic's Intelligent Zoom feature that basically crops in on a photo and then sharpens for better detail.)

In other zoom-related digital hocus-pocus, the WB700 has active noise cancellation for the lens movement when shooting movies. Generally, a motorized zoom lens makes some noise when it's moved while recording, which is picked up by a camera's mic. This feature apparently quiets that movement.

Other key features include:

    * 16-megapixel CCD sensor 1/2.3-inch type (14 megapixels effective)
    * 3.0-inch LCD
    * 1080p movie capture (H.264 file format)
    * Full manual controls
    * Raw capture
    * HDMI output
    * 4.1x2.3x.98 inches (WHD)

The WB700 replaces the HZ35W and HZ30W compact megazooms. I'm guessing GPS didn't work out well for Samsung as it's axed that feature from the WB700.

Look for it in April for $299.99.

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Google TV Is Failing: 10 Reasons Why

Google TV was expected to be the search giant�s way to move into consumers� living rooms. The software, which is currently available on the Logitech Revue set-top box and Sony HDTVs, allows users to stream content from services like Netflix over the Web, as well as access the Internet and control a DVR. On paper, it�s a fine upgrade over most other software platforms running on set-top boxes.

But as 2010 comes to a close, rampant speculation says Google TV might be failing in a big way. In fact, reports claim that Google has asked companies not to talk about Google TV products at CES. In addition, reports say that Logitech has been asked by the search giant to freeze production of its Revue set-top box. Those reports haven�t been confirmed, but given the sheer lack of excitement about Google TV products so far, it seems more likely than ever that Google is concerned that its entertainment platform is starting to fail in the market.

There are good reasons to believe Google TV is failing.

Here�s why:

1. Where�s the excitement?

When Google TV was first announced, there was palpable excitement around the U.S. about the potential the software offered. It made sense. As mentioned, Google TV offers more promise on paper than any other solution in the entertainment space. But now that Google TV devices are on store shelves, all that excitement seems to have dissipated, causing some to wonder if it�s actually falling flat.

2. The Apple TV influence

The Apple TV was called a �hobby� by Steve Jobs for years. But on Sept. 1, Apple unveiled a new version of the device and released it at the end of that month. Recently, Apple said that it was on its way to selling 1 million Apple TV units. It�s not groundbreaking, but given the popularity of that device, it�s quite possible that consumers might be turning to Apple�s option over those from Sony and Logitech.

3. Consumers know the features aren�t there

If there is one thing that the Web has helped consumers do, it�s research. If consumers did their research on Web TV platforms, many of them likely realized that Google TV is big on potential, but short on features right now. The software lacks application support, access to some online programming, and much more. Plus, the Logitech Revue, for example, costs $299, making it quite expensive for what it�s offering. It�s a Perfect Storm that could be hurting sales in a big way.

4. The apps haven�t arrived

When Google first talked about its entertainment platform, the company said that it would be offering a software development kit to developers that would allow them to bring entertainment content (and other goodies) to the Google TV platform. Unfortunately, those apps won�t appear until next year. Maybe if they were available now, consumers would find more value in the software.

5. Content is king

When it comes to entertainment, content matters more than anything else. Consumers want to know that they are investing in a product that will deliver to them the amount and kind of entertainment that they are really interested in. For now, that�s where Google TV is lacking. It features Netflix, but it still doesn�t have access to Hulu Plus. Moreover, those who want to access video from network Web sites on the Internet can�t do so. It�s a problem and it�s hurting Google TV�s chances for success.

6. The studios aren�t happy

As mentioned, Google TV users aren�t able to access much television content from the Internet. The reason for that is actually quite simple: networks are blocking Google TV�s access to their shows. That�s a problem. Part of the value of Google TV is surfing the Web and watching content for free on the Internet. If that�s not possible, consumers could go elsewhere to find their entertainment.

7. There might be truth in the rumors

Until Google confirms that it�s asking vendors to halt development on their Google TV products, there�s no telling what�s really going on. But given the issues Google TV suffers from and the success of other platforms, like the Apple TV and Roku set-top boxes, it just might be true. If it is, it speaks to the issues Google TV will have to solve if it is to have any chance for success later on.

8. Google hasn�t been so quick to gloat

Like most other companies in the technology industry, Google enjoys having the ability to tell the world that its products are performing better than others at retail. But so far with the Google TV, it hasn�t done anything of the sort. In fact, it has been relatively tight-lipped about its performance, preferring instead to hope consumers will opt for the platform over time. Now, it should be noted that Google TV could in fact see stronger sales next year. But at least so far, Google�s relative silence on its entertainment platform�s performance should indicate trouble.

9. Progress has been slow

When Google first announced Google TV, it seemed that the platform would be making serious advances over what was currently offered. But when the device first shipped and consumers had the chance to get their hands on it, they quickly realized that it wasn�t as groundbreaking as they thought. Google hasn�t done enough to change that perception. Until Google pushes the envelope with Google TV, consumers might just ignore the product.

10. Are consumers ready?

Google TV might be the most advanced entertainment option on paper for the vast majority of consumers around the world, but that doesn�t mean that it will be a guaranteed success. The content-streaming market, while growing rapidly, is still in its infancy. And the average mainstream consumer doesn�t necessarily know if they�re ready or not for that change. Over time, the Google TV platform could be quite worthwhile, but now the question of whether or not it�s ahead of its time must be asked.

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Samsung Galaxy Player YP-GB1 Android PMP headed to CES 2011

Samsung is readying a new PMP version of its Galaxy S family of Android smartphones, with the Samsung Galaxy Player YP-GB1 expected to make its debut at CES 2011 next month. The 4-inch WVGA PMP measures 9.9mm thick and uses a Super LCD display rather than Super AMOLED; it also loses the cellular connectivity, with WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0 and GPS, though Samsung Hub says that does free up room for a T-DMB digital TV tuner.

There�s also a 3.2-megapixel rear-facing camera and a front-facing camera for video calls. The battery is a 1,200mAh unit, and there�s a microSD card slot along with Samsung�s 1GHz Hummingbird processor running Android 2.2 Froyo.

Interestingly, despite the lack of cellular connectivity, the Galaxy Player is supposed to have access to the Android Market (along with Samsung�s own app store). No word on pricing or availability at this stage.

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Sony confirms PSP phone, but doesn�t confirm PSP phone

Confused? You betcha! Kazuo Hirai is the big cheese at Sony Computer Entertainment and he recently had an interview where he was to discuss the PSPhone (or PSP phone, if you prefer). In the interview, he basically confirms that they�re working on such a device.

That�s the good news. The slightly confusing news is that he says, �We don�t want gamers to be asking, what�s the difference between that and a PSP.� In this way, it is more than likely that Sony is still working on a proper PSP2, but the PSP Phone is a separate project.

I�ve heard some rumors swirling around the Internet that the so-called PSPphone won�t really be a PSP Phone at all. Instead, it�s being dubbed the Sony Ericsson XPERIA Play to join the rest of the XPERIA smartphone line. It�ll probably have the PlayStation app, but the Android phone will also play some PSN download games too. Sony is more than happy to embrace casual gamers in this regard.

In any case, I�m hearing that Sony could be making some sort of formal announcement regarding one or both devices at CES in January. Till then, it�s all rumor and hearsay.

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Honeycomb The Newest Addition To Android: Expected First Quarter 2011

Android is an open-source software stack for mobile devices, and a corresponding open-source project led by Google. We created Android in response to our own experiences launching mobile apps. We wanted to make sure that there was no central point of failure, so that no industry player can restrict or control the innovations of any other. That�s why we created Android, and made its source code open.

Every Application Runs Its Own Process

Every Android application runs in its own process, with its own instance of the Dalvik virtual machine. Dalvik has been written so that a device can run multiple VMs efficiently. The Dalvik VM executes files in the Dalvik Executable (.dex) format which is optimized for minimal memory footprint. The VM is register-based, and runs classes compiled by a Java language compiler that have been transformed into the .dex format by the included "dx" tool.

Nokia

Nokia likely isn�t happy about this. The Finnish phone giant has been the subject of constant speculation regarding a move to the Android operating system. Their defense has been that using Android would make them just another countless Android manufacturer in a sea of them. But, if you�re wondering what Android would be like on Nokia hardware, now you�ve got your chance.

Honeycomb

They�re looking, of course, toward Honeycomb � the next major stop on Google�s Android development track. All signs point to Honeycomb bringing some significant changes to the Android OS; if everything goes as expected, it�ll be the first version of Android to be fully optimized for tablets. And if a report published this week is correct, it�ll make its way into the world in March.

First Quarter

That said, Google has confirmed that Honeycomb�s coming in 2011, and an arrival sometime within the first quarter seems like a fairly safe bet. Marketing�s already underway for an upcoming Motorola Android tablet, and the promotional materials make it quite clear that Honeycomb will be part of the equation. Motorola says the tablet will be unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in January; there�s no telling, however, when it�ll actually go on sale.

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Kodak Zi8 Handheld Digital Video Camera Impresses

I just bought a Kodak Zi8 digital shortly after my daughter was born, and am very glad I did, as opposed to buying a Flip or some other version of a handheld.

It is very sturdy in your hands. This digital video recorder doesn�t feel cheap, it feels well put together, and visually speaking, you can tell that it�s made of better materials.

The display of the Kodak Zi8 Digital Handheld Camera is a good enough size for monitoring what you�re shooting, and has descent resolution for the price you pay.

The Kodak Zi8 can shoot in 720 or 1080 at 24 frames or it can also shoot 60 frames for classic video style shots. It has a still camera mode as well so you can take still shots.

The Kodak Zi8 also has some other desirable features including a mount on the bottom for a tripod and an audio input jack. You could conceivably run a stereo mix from a board and capture audio to an event, or you could rig up a mounting system and capture high quality audio with your own mic.

It shoots on a memory card, you can get whatever capacity will fit your requirements. I got a 4GB and have been able to shoot plenty of footage on it without having to dump regularly. If you shoot at 1080, it will obviously fill up faster.

The Kodak Zi8 back end is very easy to navigate, and for the most part user-friendly. I�ve had to google a few things, but found answers very fast, as this is one of the most popular digital handhelds out there, and for good reason.

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Behind the Lens: Setting up your new camera

Now that many of you have possibly unwrapped a new camera over the holidays, I�ll provide some tips on setting your camera up to get the best results. Although controls and menu operations will be different from camera to camera, these tips apply to almost all digital cameras.

1. Get a second battery. Batteries are not expensive, and they are small enough to carry in camera bags and pouches. You�ll never regret owning a backup battery, and you�ll save yourself the frustration of losing power during important photo opportunities. Take your camera with you to the store to ensure getting the correct battery.
2. 
   Open your camera�s menu and scroll to find a setting referring to image quality or image size. Select the highest-quality or largest file size you see in the list. This is probably the most important setting you can make on your camera. This ensures that you are getting the highest-resolution image capture possible with the camera. For most cameras this will be a high-quality JPEG � a compressed file openable on most computers. If you are experienced in working with photo software programs like Photoshop, you may want to select a quality setting that captures both a high-resolution JPEG file and a RAW file. A RAW file is basically an unprocessed file that provides you with a lot of latitude to make after-the-shot adjustments to a photograph, including color balance and exposure.
3. Get a larger-capacity memory card. The memory card that usually comes with a camera is totally inadequate. To start capturing high-resolution images and RAW files, you will need larger-sized cards. The majority of cameras these days take Secure Digital (SD) cards or Compact Flash cards. If you are an occassional snapshooter, you�re probably fine with a 1-2 gigabyte (GB) card. Look for 4-8GB or more if you start experimenting with RAW files or just take a lot of photographs between downloads.

Other recommendations on a few settings.

l Color balance: Stick with �auto.� Most cameras do a good job.

l ISO: �Auto� again will serve you well. Just be aware that darker environments will require higher ISOs and that will result in noisy or grainy images.

l Exposure: Automatic (A), Shutter or Time priority (S/T) and Aperture priority will all provide decent exposures. Knowing how each is affecting your photograph is a must. The camera makes all the choices on (A) or Program (P). Choosing (S/T) means you are taking control of the time element of your camera. Selecting (A) is giving you control on the size of the aperture and the amount of light entering your camera. Reference this past column for more information regarding the functions controlling your camera�s exposure.

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Rollei launches 3D camera and photo frame

German manufacturers, Rollei have announced their new 3D point-and-shoot digital camera �Power Flex 3D�, to be released in UK next month.

Along with Power Flex 3D, �Design Line 3D�; a digital picture frame was also announced. The best part about Rollei�s devices is that one doesn�t have wear those silly 3D glasses and yet their special Parallax barrier display technology lets users see 3D videos and images. The new digital camera will hit Europe next month and will then come to US.

The camera specs pretty basic and to some extent cool also. One can shoot 3D images at 2592 x 1944 pixels at a maximum resolution and videos can be captures in HD quality of 720p at 30 fps. It has a decent 2.8 inch LCD display of 640 x 480 pixels. Features with 5-megapixel, it also shoots in 2D mode. It has an 8x digital zoom with an easy to get by menu and OS. It easily connects to TV via TV output of PAL/NTSC and HDMI.

As for the 7-inch Design Line digital picture frame, it displays 3D images at 800 x 480 pixels � not very awesome, but adequate. The software that comes with it �Blaze Video Magic 3.0� creates any 2D image to 3D in simple steps on pc.

Both Rollei devices are priced at 299.95 Euros each.

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CES: Universal wireless charging ElectroHub to demo at CES 2011

Wireless charging stations for electronics have been a hot topic ever since the introduction of the Powermat and the universal wireless charger standard was established. These methods, however, require the battery-operated devices to be compliant with the wireless charging standard they use. This means other products, namely the majority of all electronics, won't be able to take advantage of them.

The ElectroHub, which will debut at CES 2011, is a new wireless charging station that's designed to work with virtually all electronic devices. Though the details are still a little sketchy, basically this new charging station works similarly to the way the Powermat does, but instead of requiring the electronic device to be complaint (i.e., by using a special case), it provides ElectroHub batteries, which come in standard sizes like AA and AAA.

By swapping the device's original battery for an ElectroHub battery, you'll turn it into one that's ElectroHub-compatible, and now you can charge it just by putting it on top ElectroHub. The hub--measuring 9.2 inches by 6.1 inches by 0.8 inch and weighing only 11 ounces--is designed to charge up to six devices at a time.

Obviously, there are devices that have nonreplaceable batteries. In this case, the user can get a protective case that works as a converter to charge the device's internal battery with the hub, similar to how the Powermat works.

The ElectroHub is slated to be available during the first quarter of 2011 and will cost $39, which includes one set of ElectroHub batteries. Other battery sets can be purchased separately and are estimated to cost another $10, which is about the same price as a set of generic rechargeable batteries.

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Blackberry torch can be your good choice this season

Mobile phones have changed the way of communication. There are number of mobile brands surviving in the market and having tough competition. Amongst various mobile brands blackberry is the one which is existing since very long time and has maintained its name. It has manufactured very few slider handsets and amongst them the very popular one is  blackberry torch. It is equipped with many advanced handsets. This slider is useful for personal as well as professional use. It is being offered by many online mobile merchants through various mobile phone deals in a very cheap and best rate.

The handset is very easy to carry as it weighs 161 g and measures 111 x 62 x 14.6 mm. It contains 3.2 inches TFT capacitive touchscreen  with resolution of 360 x 480 pixels. As  other blackberry handsets the display also includes QWERTY keyboard, Optical trackpad, Multi-touch input method, Proximity sensor for auto turn-off. It has internal memory capacity of 4 GB which can be extended with micro SD card up to 32GB. Users can enjoy internet through its different internet connectivity like 3G, WLAN, EDGE, GPRS. A five megapixel camera is also integrated in this smart phone which helps the users to click beautiful pictures. Other business features include Social feeds, BlackBerry maps, Document viewer (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) etc.

Various networks like orange, vodafone, three, t mobile offer this handset through contract deals, pay as you go deals, sim free deals. Blackberry torch deals is the one which offers the handset for �69.99 with monthly cost of �40.00 along with various free gifts and incentives. Your another great choice can be blackberry torch contract a sit comes up with many benefits.

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How to Activate iPhone 4 � Tips and Guides

Follow our guide to know how to activate your iPhone 4. Watch the iPhone uses a 4 miniSim card you need to pick up an AT & T store to activate. There is no money for.

How to Activate Your iPhone 4:

1) Download and install (or update) the latest version of iTunes.

December 26, 2010
How to Activate iPhone 4 � Tips and Guides

How to Activate iPhone 4 Tips and Guides

Follow our guide to know how to activate your iPhone 4. Watch the iPhone uses a 4 miniSim card you need to pick up an AT & T store to activate. There is no money for.

How to Activate Your iPhone 4:

1. Download and install (or update) the latest version of iTunes.
2. Connect your iPhone 4 to your PC or Mac via the included USB cable 16 pin and follow the onscreen instructions. They will ask for your phone, synchronize data, etc. If you name a lot of the media may take a while for the first sync Note.
3. Activate the iPhone 4 or online at att.com / activations or by calling 1-866-895-1099 from another phone. Note: You need the wireless number to activate the account social security number and zip code to give. Activation may take several minutes.
4. Start your new phone and make a test call. Set your visual voice mail box by touching the green phone icon, the voice mail icon on the right and select set. You will receive a password (make it easy) and be able to use standard or custom greeting.

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Redsn0w iOS 4.2.1 Untethered Jailbreak For iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad Released

As promised, friends, the Redsn0w jailbreak for iOS 4.2.1 has touched down! While still in beta, it�s perfectly usable, according to some reports we�re receiving from the folks who have already tried to get this working.

As we�ve noted previously, this untethered jailbreak comes as a backup to the original jailbreak that was supposed to debut this weekend.

In order to get this working, here�s what you�ll need (courtesy RP):

* iPhone, iPad or iPod touch running iOS 4.2.1
* iPhone, iPad or iPod touch with SHSH blobs saved for iOS 4.2 Beta 3.
* Mac OS X
* Access to iOS 4.2 Beta 3 firmware file.
* If you rely on Ultrasn0w unlock, STAY AWAY from this version of Redsn0w.
* Currently limited to iPhone 4, iPad and iPod touch 4G only.

Our friends over at Redmond Pie have assembled a fairly thorough guide to getting this working, as this isn�t quite as simple as pushing a button and getting what you want.

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Wake Forest University Created An Application for The iPhone and iPad

  Victor Pauca has many gifts this Christmas, but the boy had been 5 years since before the year�s best gift: The ability to communicate. Victor suffers from a rare genetic disorder that slows the development of various capacities, including speech. To help him and other disabled people, his father Paul and some of his students at Wake Forest University have created an application for the iPhone and iPad. The program converts the touch screen in a communication tool.

Verbal Victor application allows parents and caregivers to disabled people take pictures and record phrases attached to images. With that information, show �buttons on the screen, and Victor can touch when you want to communicate. For example, an image of the garden can be accompanied by a recording of a sentence like �I want to go out and play.� When Victor plays the image, their parents or teachers know what they want.

�The user records the voice, so this is familiar to the child. There is something like a robot,� said Paul Pauca.

The program, which will be available next week for $ 10 on the iTunes Store of Apple Inc., is among dozens of new software products designed to make life easier for people who suffer various types of disabilities. The category is growing so fast that Apple now has an individual list for it in the app store. Programs occur each week, ranging from Sign4Me, who teaches sign language based on a cartoon character, a ArtikPix, which helps teachers and therapists to improve the way in which students articulate the words.

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Blackberry bold 9780 vs. bold 9780 white - Unbeatable choice

A lot of handsets comes in the market only for you. Let�s go for the choices and get the selective one. Best deals are waiting for your decision.

Research in motion is a very old and repetitive name in the mobile phone global market. It has earned a lot of name and fame in the world of gadgets with quite a sensational name Blackberry. It�s new and latest featured handsets are Blackberry Bold 9780 and Blackberry Bold 9780 white, which has covered the gadget market, because of its highly advanced features.

Firstly, we talking about the master piece named as Blackberry Bold 9780 Deals, which has all the required features that you want in your dream handset.
It has a smart camera of 5 mega pixel camera with a high resolution with 2592 x 1944 pixels with auto focus and LED flash. It has an internal memory of 512 MB RAM with a free 2 GB micro SD memory card that can be expand up to 32 GB by using micro SD memory card. It has a smart display of 2.44 inches TFT screen supports 65K colors with Touch-sensitive optical track pad with full QWERTY keypad that makes it user friendly.

On the other hand Blackberry Bold 9780 white Deals is a very astonishing handset, which has an internal memory of 512 MB RAM with a free 2 GB micro SD memory card that can be explore up to 32 GB by inserting micro SD memory card. It has a brilliant camera of 5 mega pixel with 2592 x 1944 pixels with auto focus and LED flash. It has a beautiful display of 2.44 inches with TFT screen with 480 x 360 pixels.

You can buy these Blackberry phones from any on line mobile phone shop at your price in just a click. So go for lucrative handsets.

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Sony Exec Says Next PlayStation Portable Will Appeal to the Hardcore

Handheld gaming fans may want to save any holiday money they get in the next few days, because it seems like Sony will be rolling out two very different devices in the near future. According to the New York Times, Kaz Hirai�head of the Playstation division�recently made remarks that shed a tiny bit of light on how Sony's conceptualizing the next PlayStation Portable and the much-rumored PlayStation Phone.


Hirai said that Sony's not looking to compete against the more casual offerings on iOS and Android:


�The games being played on Android and Apple platforms are fundamentally different from the world of immersive games that Sony Computer Entertainment, and PlayStation, aims for,� Mr. Hirai said. The kinds of gamers who enjoy more intense games, he said, would remain Sony's fan base.

For the most part, Hirai's remarks are on the money. But, the advent of graphically advanced games like id's Rage and Infinity Blade by Chair Entertainment are beginning to dismantle the commonly held notion that hardcore game experiences aren't possible on iOS's touchscreen platforms. Hirai also commented on the possible implementation of a touchscreen on the PSP2:

�Depending on the game, there are ones where you can play perfectly well with a touch panel,� Mr. Hirai said. �But you can definitely play immersive games better with physical buttons and pads. I think there could be games where you're able to use both in combination.�

Finally, Hirai said that whatever steps the company takes to port the PlayStation branding to a mobile handset would need to be well thought-out, to avoid consumer confusion:

�We don't want gamers to be asking, what's the difference between that and a PSP,� Mr. Hirai said. �We have to come up with a message that users will understand. It would have to be a product that keeps the PlayStation's strengths intact.�

That sounds a bit like how Microsoft's integrated select aspects of the Xbox Live service into their new Windows Phone 7 mobile software. Whatever the next stage in Sony's portable gaming business looks like, it at least sounds like they're considering how the market has changed since the PSP first made it debut five years ago.

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New Acer Aspire One 522 boasts Ontario APU instead of Atom

When it comes to netbooks, pretty much the only real CPU solution in town was Intel�s low-voltage Atom, with any non-Atom netbooks generally being pretty dismissible affairs� which makes Acer�s new Aspire One 522 so interesting. Not only does it not use an Atom core, it uses the relatively new 1GHz AMD C-50 Ontario APU, a chip rated at just nine watts, which means this is a netbook that should be able to boast some really heroic battery life.

Otherwise, this is a fairly standard netbook, although it does boast a glossy 10.1-inch display capable of 720p HD video,
which is certainly a spot better than the usual 1024 x 600 panel. Rounding out the specs we have three USB ports, a VGA-out, a webcam, ethernet, HDMI out and 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, as well as a 500GB hard drive and 2GB of RAM.

To be fair, we�re mostly interested by the Aspire One 522�s Ontario APU. Otherwise, we�re not really sure why anyone�s bothering with 10-inch netbooks anyway: the new 11.6-inch MacBook Air pretty much obviated the lot of them.

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Nokia N900 gets a Gingerbread port, Nexus One stares in disbelief

Add the Nokia N900 to the short list of devices running the latest iteration of the Android OS � 2.3 Gingerbread. The last of the Maemo kind just got an unofficial ROM that, while not perfectly stable, proves that a relationship between those two is possible.

The Nokia N900 Gingerbread port comes courtesy of Alexey Roslyakov, a Russian coder, better known under the nickname DrunkDebbuger. He says a publicly available experimental release should come before the year's end, which means in less than a week. Of course it�s not completely functional at this stage, but cellular data, Wi-Fi and sound are a go and naturally support for the rest of the hardware is being added as we speak.


If being an alpha tester isn�t much to your liking, you can try the stable Android 2.2.1 Froyo release for your N900. Roslyakov says it should be available for Christmas.

The final bit of good news is that there will be some kind of Android release for the Nokia N900 in time for the old calendar Christmas (7 January).

It seems that all N900 owners have made Santa�s Good kid book this year.

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Dell plans to unveil 7-inch Android tab at CES 2011

Yesterday, a new tablet from Dell earned its WiFi certification from the FCC� arching eyebrows all over the gadget blogosphere, who now know Dell intends to unveil a new tablet at CES, probably to be released imminently after.

The question remained, though: which Dell tablet is this? The Dell Steak 5-inch tablet has already been released, and was largely met with yawns. The next tablet that has been tipped for Dell is known as the Looking Glass, Dell�s answer to the 7-inch Galaxy Tab.

It now appears that the tablet in question is indeed the latter, but it�s not called the Looking Glass: it�s the Dell Streak 7, at least according to documentation leaked to Engadget describing an in-production commercial for the Android-based device.


According to these documents, the advertisement will focus on the tablet�s ideal size, claiming that 7-inches is the �perfect� size to game, browse and use social networks.

Dell�s tablets haven�t really gone over very well lately� just another example of Dell�s struggle to enter the mobile market, whether that�s PMPs, PDAs, tablets, or smartphones. Can the Streak 7 accomplish what the likes of the Axim, Aero and DJ couldn�t: garner widespread appeal? We�ll know at CES.

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Getting the most from your tablet

One of the most coveted gadgets of recent months is unquestionably the tablet. With so many desirable and affordable models available, like Apple�s pioneering iPad and the Samsung Galaxy Tab, they�re finding their way into homes up and down the country. But buying the tablet is only the start, to really get the best from your gadget it�s worth investing in the right accessories.

The range of accessories available is expanding as rapidly as the choice of tablets themselves. Top of the list are protective cases. Tablets are a thing of beauty so a case is a must. There are lots of different designs ranging from stylish leather cases to messenger bags and funky-coloured skins. There are even cases made of 100% recycled materials to appeal to those who like to put the environment first. Noreve have also created a very popular Galaxy Tab case which has a built-in stand for unsupported viewing when out and about.


Another essential item is a screen protector which guards against scratches, dust and dirt, with the added benefit of reducing glare and fingerprints.
One of the most popular Galaxy Tab accessories is The InvisibleSHIELD, a military-designed film which protects the whole body of the device as well as the screen.

One of the newest, must-have iPad accessories  is the iPad pen (or Stylus) a drawing instrument that overcomes the inaccuracies of using a finger-tip. A great-value option for first-time users is an �iPad accessory pack� which contains all the essentials including case, charger, stylus and dock.
Other valuable tablet accessories are: docking stations, for upright viewing or to sync the tablet when it�s not being used; a wireless keyboard; and speakers.

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