Wintel-based tablet PCs may be priced around 599 to 899 USD as both Intel and Microsoft are unwilling to drop their hardware and and sofrware costs. The impact would be pushing end consumers to buy cheaper tablets powered by other processors and OS.
The reason for not lowering the price is understandable. If tablets are priced too competitively, it will impact the sales of notebooks. Currently, plans for the new tablets will be powered by Intel Clover Trial-W and Windows 8 as the OS.
If Intel doesn’t reduce the pricing of their processors, manufacturers can choose ARM solutions from Nvidia, Qualcomm and Texas Instrument’s (TI’s) for their upcoming Windows 8 tablet PC to reduce their costs.
The ease of use of Windows 8 OS opens another revenue for tablet makers. It will compete head to head with iPad 3 (to be launched in March 2012) and current slate of tablets upgraded to run the Android 4.0.
ASUS introduces the Eee Pad Transformer Prime with NVIDIA® Tegra® 3 Quad-Core Processor and Google® Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich ASUS today held a press event in Singapore to launch the world’s first tablet featuring the NVIDIA® Tegra® 3 quad-core processor – the ASUS Eee Pad Transformer Prime. This is also the world’s first tablet to be unveiled with Google® Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, which is available from today over the air.
Developed with NVIDIA® and Google®, the Eee Pad Transformer Prime and its innovative exclusive mobile dock presents a harmony of beauty and strength. In addition to having superior multimedia performance, the Transformer Prime also boasts enhanced features that include audio powered by ASUS SonicMaster technology, an 8MP rear auto-focus camera with LED flash, and an 18-hour* rated battery life when combined with the mobile dock. All of these are housed in an ultra slim 8.3mm metallic spun finish chassis that weighs just 586g.
Multimedia enjoyment in style
Featuring an incredibly slim form factor, the Transformer Prime is a svelte 8.3mm thin and the only metallic tablet that weighs in at a mere 586g. It brandishes a metallic spun finish design made of aluminum for a secure yet extremely comfortable grip. It comes in two gorgeous colors: Amethyst Gray and Champagne Gold. The Transformer Prime features the ASUS exclusive SonicMaster technology, which is renowned for crisp and acoustically accurate audio. It produces crystal clear sound with a wide sound range, increased sound fidelity, and distinct vocal enhancements not found on any other tablet in the market. The Eee Pad Transformer already boasts a wide 178° viewing angle IPS display, with scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass, but the Transformer Prime goes further, upgraded with a brighter Super IPS+ screen that enhances the brightness of the screen for a better outdoor reading experience.
Ultra performance
The Transformer Prime is the world’s first tablet to feature NVIDIA’s next-generation quad-core Tegra® 3 processor, creating a new breed of high powered tablet devices. With the quad-core CPU and 12-core GeForce® GPU, the Transformer Prime delivers the best and fastest experience for tablet-based multitasking, web browsing, as well as Full HD video playback and gaming. On its own, the Transformer Prime has a battery life of up to 12 hours*, but when combined with the mobile dock, it lasts up to an incredible 18 hours* as the dock recharges the tablet.
Prime meets Ice Cream Sandwich
Google® Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich brings a plethora of enhancements, and when combined with the design of the Eee Pad Transformer Prime, brings the user experience to new heights. The new camera UI offers better sharing, a new panorama mode, as well as live effects and backgrounds that can be applied in videos. Basic photo editing is now also built into the system, which allows for simple photo touchups. With offline browsing, users can save web pages and view them later without an Internet connection, making it convenient for travelers. While on the road without access to a Wi-Fi network, users can use the new Wi-Fi Direct feature to directly transfer files between Wi-Fi enabled devices. Other enhancements include the new default Roboto font, with a typeface that is easy to read. Users can now also access the Transformer Prime’s camera directly from the lock-screen. Finally, among various other UI changes, users can easily create folders on the home screen by dragging one app on top of another.
Unrivaled visual acuity
A 1.2MP front camera allows for video conferencing while an 8MP rear camera with auto-focus and LED flash takes clear and sharp photos thanks to a large F2.4 aperture, back illuminated CMOS sensor, touch-to-focus depth of field and low light noise reduction. A first for any tablet, the 8MP camera on the Transformer Prime also has the ability to take full 1080p HD video.
Expandability and cloud services
The Transformer Prime is offered in both 32GB and 64GB models. It features a micro SD card slot, 3.5mm combo audio jack and micro HDMI port so sharing both what’s inside and on screen is quick and easy. However, the feature that gives the Transformer Prime its name is the mobile dock, which gives new meaning to the term versatility. The innovative and convenient design seamlessly provides the user with a keyboard and touchpad, along with limitless expandability options via the USB port and SD card slot. The preinstalled SuperNote application is able to take, draw or record notes; while Polaris® Office is great for productivity as it gives users the ability to read and edit Word, Excel and PowerPoint (MS Office 97-2007 version compatible) files. In addition, ASUS is offering 8GB of free cloud storage for life via ASUS WebStorage, so users have access to their files via the cloud no matter where they are.
Price
Eee Pad Transformer Prime + Docknig station SGD 899 (GST included) up SGD 1098
Eee Pad Transformer Prime (Tablet Only) SGD 759 (GST included) up SGD 899
PRADA PHONE BY LG 3.0 BEGINS WORLDWIDE ROLLOUT
Much Awaited Designer Smartphone Arrives in
South Korea Today, Europe and Asia in January
Seoul, 28 December 2011: LG Electronics (LG) made its highly anticipated PRADA phone by LG 3.0 available to the public today in South Korea. The phone is now available to Korean customers and scheduled for the release in most European countries and other parts of Asia in January.
The phone, its existence announced only last month in Seoul during the joint signing ceremony, was unveiled for the first time at a showcase event in London two weeks ago. The stylish new device has been attracting significant attention for being the only smartphone with premium branding on the market currently.
The PRADA phone by LG 3.0 is the third handset from the PRADA and LG collaboration following the highly successful PRADA phone by LG 1.0 and 2.0 phones. The latest offering continues in the same tradition combining PRADA’s trademark chic simplicity with LG’s leading technology, including one of the brightest 800-nit NOVA display and a PRADA themed UI for truly unique mobile experience.
Following PRADA’s renowned design philosophy, the handset features a full glossy touchscreen on the front and PRADA’s signature Saffiano pattern on the back. Impressively thin at only 8.5mm, minimal hardkeys and a classic black finish complete the phone’s sleek look.
With 1.0GHz Dual-Core/Dual Channel architecture, the PRADA phone by LG 3.0 is as effective as it is stylish. The phone runs on Android Gingerbread OS with an update to Android Ice Cream Sandwich scheduled for the second quarter of 2012.
For more details on this unique collaboration, please visit the official site of PRADA Phone by LG 3.0 at www.pradaphonebylg3.com.
Key Specs:
Operating System: Android 2.3 Gingerbread
Memory: User 8GB maximum (varies depending on carrier requirements)
Display Size: 4.3 inches
Resolution: WVGA (800 x 480)
Display Brightness: 800 nit
Camera: 8MP
Processor: 1.0GHz Dual-Core / Dual Channel
Battery: 1540mAh
Huawei Singapore announced the availability of two new smartphones today – the Huawei Honor and the Huawei Vision.
Huawei Honor
The Huawei Honor (U8860) will be shipped with the latest Android Gingerbread OS and features a 16M 16:9 true color high-definition (HD) 4-inch Full Wide VGA capacitive touch screen. Powered by a 1,900 mAh battery, Huawei Honor frees consumers from the inconvenience of searching for an electricity source, allowing them to share and connect for up to three days1 on a single charge – the longest battery life among smartphones in the 4-inch screen range.
The Huawei Honor will be available in Singapore from 16 December at a recommended retail price of $528 (without GST)
Huawei Vision
TheHuawei Vision (U8850) will feature the brand’s stunning 3D user interface and carousel animation display. The device features a 3.7” capacitive touchscreen and has an aluminium alloy uni-body in silver, and crystal sculptural curve lens for great touch feel. Vision measures only 9.9mm at its thinnest point and weighs only 135g. Huawei Vision was most recently awarded the iF Design Award 2012 for its immaculate design.
The Huawei Vision is available at authorised retailers from today at a recommended retail price of $438 (without GST).
SITEX 2011 begins today. Although it is raining cats and dogs, it didn’t stop us from traveling almost an hour to the eastern Singapore to check out what is new at the show.
This year, the SITEX 2011 day 1 seems to be quite quiet. The event spans 3 halls and we don’t see the usual crowd as compared to last year.
Major brands were there, mostly selling notebooks. DIY components are no where to be seen as usual. In fact, the floods in Thailand has resulted in a shortage of HDD. The usual cut throat price of USB 3.0 portable HDD is no where to be seen.
Tablets were not everywhere. The big brands like Acer, Sony, Samsung, Asus, Viewsonic are all promoting their tablets. The pricing isn’t that cheaper than at the retail stores.
I have a hard time looking for HP cartridges too. There seems to be only one stall in the first hall that carries it. I got my combo pack at a 20% discounted price and a $5 NTUC voucher.
At one corner of the Hall 6 is Palladine, a local LCD TV manufacturer. They are showing off their new TV hub powered by Android. I gave it a try and is surprised to find Android marketplace on it on this Android 2.2 powered device. The remote control is cool too but I find it difficult to use it as a mouse over the air. It sells for S$199.
Next door is Aztech, another Singaporean company that is known these days for it’s powerplugs. They also have a TV box but it is powered by Android 2.3 Gingerbread. It is known as PlayXtreme. The bundle comes with HDMI, component and RCA cable. They have a very interesting remote control. It has a full QWERTY keypad on it for text entry. The launch price is S$179 which is slightly cheaper than the Palladine.
Below is a 3D Video of the tiny device that is hooked to the 50″ LCD TV.
LG Optimus 3D P920 3D Android Phone Review
Bluetooth 23 Oct 2011
Phones have evolved so much these few years, from keyboard to touch screen, to voice control etc. Although most people will agree that most Android phones are just iPhone look alike with similar features, LG Optimus 3D is otherwise.
LG Optimus 3D, is quite different from it’s competitors. Based on Android 2.2 which LG promised an upgrade, the LG Optimus 3D spots a glasses-free 4.3″ wide display, displaying 3D contents that are recorded by the phone or from Youtube. The dual 5 mega pixel camera is capable of doing real time video recording and still images both in 3D. 3D videos can be uploaded to youtube immediately. It can also record 2D videos at 1080P HD resolution and 720p in 3D.
There is also a 3D hot key on the rear of the phone. It can convert 2D to 3D vice versa by the press of the button. 3D game converter is added in the latest firmware (v10d). You can also share and view 3D videos on the large screen effortlessly, with HDMI 1.4 connection to 3D equipped TV.
All this is accomplish with LG’s advanced “tri-dual” configuration: a dual-core, dual channel and dual memory architecture based on the ground breaking TI OMAP4 chipset. This configuration enables users to enjoy significantly improved performance and run-time compared to any other smartphone. Unlike other dual-core smartphones, with single channel and single memory, the LG Optimus 3D enables the simultaneous- and thus faster transfer of data between its dual-core, dual channel and dual memory.
The phone is capable of running on 2G GSM 850/1800/1900, 3G HSDPA (900/1900/2100) and hSDPA (1700/2100/850), HSDPA-HSPA+ (14.4Mbps/5.7Mbps) networks. It has a dimension of 128.8x68x11.9 and weighs 168g.
The screen is a 3D LCD Capacitive Touch screen with 16M colours at (480×800). It has a battery pack of 1500mAH. The processor is a Dual-core 1GHz ARM Cortex-A9 processor, PowerVR,SGX540 GPU, TI OMAP4430 chipset.
In the following pages, we will take a look at the interface, pictures and videos recorded using the phone.
If you have been waiting for the Android 4.0, Google and Samsung just finished it’s press event in Hong Kong minutes ago.
At the event, Samsung was first to speak about it’s new Samsung Galaxy Nexus, the first phone powered by the new Android 4.0 operating system.
Samsung Galaxy Nexus
The new phone is based is a HSPA+ 21Mbps / HSUPA 5.76Mbps phone supporting 850/900/1900/1700/2100. EDGE/GPRS 850900/1800/1900. It has a 1.2GHz dual core processor with a large 4.65″ 1280×720 HD Super AMOLED Screen powered by by Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.
Samsung Galaxy Nexus will be offered in HSPA+ in NOV 2011 and LTE versions in different regions later. It has a Super AMOLED HD 1280×720 display with contrast ratio of 100,000:1. The screen is 4.65inch. it has a Contour display, sleek and curve 8.94mm and a bezel of 4.29mm.
It has a 5 megapixel full HD recording camera with 0 shutter lag for low light shooting. It will come with Barometer, NFC – payment options, contacts sharing, POGO pin – docking for sharing videos.
The camera is a 5 mega pixel camera with LED. Front camera is a 1.3 mega pixel for video conferencing.
The camera is also capable of doing vido recording in MPEG4/H.263/H.264 ni 1080p@30fps HD. Music playback is in Mp3/AAC/AAC+/eAAC+
The phone has BT ver 3.0, USB 2.0, WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4GHz/5GHz) and NFC. It also has Accelerometer, Compass, Gyro, Promimity and Barometer.
The memory capacity is 1GB (RAM) + 16GB/32GB (ROM). It has a dimension of 135.5×67.94×8.44mm and weighs 135g and comes with a 1750mAh battery.
Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
Android 4.0 will have a new font type – Roboto which gives the phone a magazine layout font type that is easy to the eyes. There is a new lock screen for it and Android has also update the animations and Live wall papers.
Buttons are gone, replaced with touch screen virtual buttons which are part of the OS. With the new OS you can now group apps into folder just like Apple’s iOS. You can also place your favourite apps or contacts on the taskbar.
Other improvements over the previous versions include a new pull down notification screen, more accurate and responsive keyboard, in line spell checker, improved cut and paste.
Something different is that Android 4.0 now offer voice recognition in real time, it does not need to ‘think’ for a few seconds, it just show you word for word when you speak into the phone.
ANother new idea they have is the face unlock feature. By capturing your face, the phone will be able to recognise the owner of the phone and unlock it. It did not mention what will happen if it recognises the person wrongly for more than 3 times, does it destory all the data intact ? Unfortunately, we are unable to witness it as the demo failed probably due to beta ware.
Other improvements include web browser. It now allows you to do inprivate browsing, offline reading, gmail offline search for 30 days, a revamped calendar.
For those on limited HSPA traffic, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich now offers you a way to check your data usage. It can also detect which are the applications that are choking up data for the month. Of course you can set alert when your data usage is reaching say 5 GB.
You can now take pictures without entering the phone by dragging the lock bar to the left to access the camera feature. with the immediate access, you can now send pictures almost instantly to social networks. enhance it with filters to change angle of shot etc. There is also panorama shooting which stiches photos for a wider viewing angle. Video recording is 1080P HD. It can zoom and focus continuously. it can also do time lapse video recording.
ANdroid 4.0 also introduce PEOPLE APP, a central application that keeps you updated with your contacts social network profiles and contact information.
Lastly, Android 4.0 comes with NFC. A new program Android Beam is introduced that is capable ot sharing any content between android devices by placing two phones back to back
Users can now share photos, contacts, even share the game (on marketplace) by just bumpping the two phones back to back.
At the closing of the media conference, Google reiterate that the developer tools are ready and the first Android 4.0 phone will go on sale in November.
Update : Official specifcation of Nexus posted (see gallery)
In an hour’s time, Google will officially announce the next generation OS for it’s Android phones. The event will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hong Kong.
At the mean time, a picture of the upcoming Nexus Prime by Samsung also appeared on Samsung website.
Singapore among the first few markets in the world to retail MediaPad
Singapore, 13 October 2011 – The wait is finally over for Huawei MediaPad fans in Singapore! From 15 October 2011, the 7-inch Android Honeycomb 3.2 MediaPad will be retailing at operators as well as selected retail stores for S$598 (including GST) without subscription plan. Singapore is one of the first markets where the MediaPad is commercially available.
The Huawei MediaPad is a complete entertainment powerhouse driven by Qualcomm’s dual-core 1.2GHz processor. Featuring a 7-inch 217 PPI capacitive touch screen, the MediaPad is Huawei’s smartest, slimmest and lightest tablet yet, measuring just 10.5mm (0.4 inches) deep and weighing approximately 390g (0.86 pounds).
It supports 1080P full HD video playback and features a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera and 5 megapixel auto focus rear-facing camera with HD video recording capabilities. With HSPA 14.4Mbps and high-speed WiFi 802.11n Internet connectivity and preloaded with 3 popular games, the MediaPad doesn’t just entertain – it keeps you connected.
A couple of days ago, we posted the news about a new firmware upgrade which allows 2D games to be up converted to 3D. According to LG, this new firmware is first pushed to European market.
It came as a surprise as we are able to get the update via WIFI on the LG Optimus 3D by selecting Settings->About Phone->Software update.
The updated firmware is has the same Android version, Baseband version, Kernel version, Build number as the previous version v10d. After updating it via WIFI, the phone rebooted and we see the new software version as LGP920-V10k-SEP-17-2011.
This new firmware added a new program 3D Game Converter. Click on the application and it will list all the compatible 2D games which can be up converted to 3D. Our list only has 2, which is Angry Birds and Angry Birds Rio.
We played the game in up converted mode. It does have the 3D feel. It adds another dimension of game playing on the LG Optimus 3D for 2D games.
The new firmware resolved the WIFI tethering feature. We are now running on WIFI tethering from the LG Optimus 3D.
The next update that everyone would be waiting for is the 2D->3D for video playback and also Android 2.3.
Sony Ericsson brings entertainment experiences to new heights with the Xperia arc S and Xperia neo V
- Enjoy enhanced entertainment options with Android Gingerbread platform version 2.3.4 on Xperia arc S and Xperia neo V
- Fastest entertainment experiences to date with Xperia™ arc S
- Xperia™ neo V Android smartphone combines the best of entertainment technologies from Sony and Google
7 October 2011, Singapore – Sony Ericsson, the world’s communication entertainment brand, launches two new phones, Xperia™ arc S and Xperia™ neo V that deliver the best in entertainment experiences to consumers. With the upgrade to the 2.3.4 version of the Gingerbread platform, all consumers will enjoy enhanced entertainment experiences on 2011 Xperia smartphones, ranging from Facebook inside Xperia™; gesture input; screen capture function to the world’s first 3D sweep panorama functionality powered by Sony.
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ arc S
The Xperia arc S is a winner of the EISA award “European Camera Phone 2011-2012” that includes the best-in-class Sony technology such as 3D sweep panorama; a visually brilliant 4.2” Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine; 8.1mp camera with HD video capability; and Sony’s award winning Exmor R™ for mobile image sensor that enhances still images and videos even in low light conditions. Most notably in this upgrade to the Xperia™ arc is the Xperia™ arc S’ faster 1.4Ghz processor that features a 25% faster camera start up, along with 20% faster web page rendering. Additionally, consumers also have access to a uniquely social entertainment experience of sharing and discovery of apps and media with Facebook inside Xperia™, plus the extensive world of Android with over 250,000 applications.
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ neo V
Xperia™ neo V is one of the first Xperia smartphones to launch with the new 2.3.4 Gingerbread upgrade and includes all the features like Google Talk with Video Chat and enhanced Facebook inside Xperia™ functionality. In addition, this smartphone will feature the world’s first 3D sweep panorama functionality powered by Sony where images can be captured and then viewed in 3D by connecting it to a 3D TV using the HDMI output.
Availability and Recommended Retail Price Sony Ericsson Xperia™ arc S is now available in Singapore in the colours Pure White, Midnight Blue and Sakura Pink at a Recommended Retail Price of S$788 without contract. Sony Ericsson Xperia™ neo V is now available in Singapore in the colours White and Blue Gradient at a Recommended Retail Price of S$468 without contract.
3D GAME CONVERTER NOW AVAILABLE FOR OPTIMUS 3D
Feature Adds Another Dimension to 2D Content for a Unique Viewing Experience
SEOUL, Oct. 06, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) today announced that its exclusive 3D Game Converter, which garnered tremendous interest at IFA 2011, is now available for download for owners of LG Optimus 3D smartphones. Included in the first Maintenance Release (MR), the software will be available in Europe beginning this month and will be rolled-out in other regions over the next several weeks.
The 3D Game Converter is the first software engine that allows smartphone users to transform Open GL-based 2D games into 3D with the option to switch back to 2D again at any time. This breakthrough will open more doors for 3D technology by creating a new library of content not currently available to consumers.
“LG’s 3D Game Converter directly addresses the dearth of 3D content that has prevented many users from fully embracing 3D,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “We will continue to further cement our leadership in all things 3D by developing innovative ways for users to have a really positive viewing experience with our 3D products.”
After installation, users can enjoy 2D games in 3D simply by activating 3D Game Converter application, the only requirement being that the 2D game is based on Open GL and runs in landscape mode. Users can also manually adjust 3D depth and vision settings for the best view. Changing between 3D and 2D is as simple as flicking the 3D Hot Key switch at any time.
LG plans to offer another software upgrade to enhance the Optimus 3D with new features including, but not limited to:
· 3D Video Editor for creating and editing 3D movies right on the device;
· 2D viewing of 3D videos in a single-screen mode;
· Dolby Mobile for best-in-class sound quality;
· Automatic 2D video stabilization
The 3D Game Converter can be automatically installed via WiFi by checking for software updates directly on the phone’s settings menu. The update is also available by connecting the device to a PC and running the LG Mobile Support Tool Software . Customers are advised to check their carriers’ websites for dates of availability.
LG LAUNCHES OPTIMUS LTE,
FIRST 4G HD SMARTPHONE IN KOREAN MARKET
Leading the LTE Era with Advanced True HD IPS Display Technology
SEOUL, Oct. 4, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) today announced the Korean market launch of LG Optimus LTE, the first mobile device in the country to offer 4G connectivity with the highest resolution IPS display available on a smartphone. Developed in close collaboration with sister company LG Display, Optimus LTE features a striking 4.5–inch “True HD IPS” display which offers advanced resolution, brightness and clarity and shows colors in their most natural tones, as they were meant to be seen.
Optimus LTE also delivers enhanced performance with 1.5 GHz dual-core processor, running on the Android 2.3 Gingerbread OS platform. With a large 1,830 mAh battery, Optimus LTE is perfectly suited for multimedia usage. In addition, the device enables content sharing seamlessly through HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) and DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance).
“LG Optimus LTE is the first smartphone in Korea to offer vivid and clear HD content on a 4G network,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “Our goal is to be a leading player in LTE devices by continuously offering best-in-class products based on our LTE patents and know-how.”
According to a recent report by Jefferies & Company, LG was listed as the global leader in LTE patents with ownership of 23 percent of approximately 1,400 LTE patents filed worldwide, with a financial value of almost USD 8 billion. LG demonstrated the world’s first LTE technology in 2007 and developed the world’s first LTE modem chipset in 2008. LG introduced the world’s fastest LTE technology in 2010 and conducted the world’s first video phone call on a LTE network in 2011. LG’s first LTE smartphone, RevolutionTM, was launched in the US earlier this year.
Availability of Optimus LTE in markets outside of Korea has not yet been determined.
Yesterday, we attended the press launch of the highly anticipated SONY TABLET S at Arts Science Musuem, Marina Bay in Singapore.
The event started off at 2pm with an introduction to the design and unique features. The SONY Tablet S is based on the Android 3.2 powered by NVIDIA tegra2 mobile processor. It has a 9.4 inches LED backlit IPS screen. There are two models, one with 16GB and 32GB of memory respectively. Both are WIFI models only.
For external ports, there is one USB 2.0 microAB connector, headphone jack x1. There is bluetooth, irDA. On the rear there is a SD memory slot. The TABLET S has 2 cameras, one in the front and one at the back. The front camera is a 0.3 mil mega pixel while the rear is a effective pixel 5.11 million powered by Exmor for mobile. There are 3 axis accelerometer, Gyrosensor, Digital compass and Ambient sensor built into the device.
The unit measures 241.2mm x 10,.11mm x 174.33mm and weighs 598g. It has up to 8 hrs of battery life of standard usage, 430 hours standby, 31 hours playing music, 6 hours of video playback and approx 6.2 hrs of web browsing via WIFI.
The magazine form factor catches eyeballs as no other tablet in the market has a design that resembles a magazine. This asymettric design gives it a balanced feel when holding on to it for long hours. The LCD Screen is of a resolution of 1280×800 which gives you optimal viewing. There is also an optional keyboard that is sold seperately.
The anticipated SONY Tablet, the Sony Tablet S will be launch by end of September 2011 from various sources. This tablet is equipped with Android 3.2 OS and NVIDIA Tegra 2 mobile processor.
In fact, we have seen S1 and S2 before at a trade show. It is unsure if both tablets will be announced together or just one of two.
The Sony S1 and S2 are both based on Android 3.2Honeycomb with customised UI.
The Sony S1 has a 9.4″ screen with 1280×800 resolution. it has 512MB RAM and 32GB storage. It is powered by NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor. Some features include QUick and smooth Touch panel UI, Swift web browser, front and rear cameras. It also has access to playstation suite of games.
For wireless connectivity, it has 3G/4G and WIFI. It can also function as a remote control for Sony products. The design makes it foldable like like a magazine.
The Sony S2 has a 5.5″ screen with 2 1024×480 pixel display screen. It has a Book Style UI Layout and it is WIFI/3G/4G compatible. It is again powered by NVIDIA Tegra2 processor.
LG BEGINS GLOBAL ROLLOUT OF REMOTE CALL SERVICES FOR OPTIMUS SMARTPHONE USERS
With Intelligent and Easy Access, New Services Offer Instant Customer Care Anytime, Anywhere
SEOUL, Aug. 1, 2011 — LG Electronics’ (LG) remote customer care services, which includes a pre-loaded Remote Call application and the LG FOTA (Firmware Over-the-Air) system, will now be made available to user worldwide, following the initial roll-out in Korea. This makes LG the first mobile phone manufacturer to offer remote maintenance services as a way to diagnose software problems and to distribute software upgrades direct to customers’ phones.
Thanks to the services’ instant support via a 3G or Wi-Fi network, consumers no longer need to visit an LG Customer Information Center (CIC) if a problem arises with their smartphones. This convenience has already drawn compliments from many customers in Korea, who have benefitted from the service since May.
“Convenience is what LG is about and remote call services fit our brand character perfectly,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “LG is leading the way in virtual services and follow-up care for our customers everywhere. Being there for customers from A to Z is a key priority for us.”
LG’s remote call services are available on premium Optimus smartphones, including the LG Optimus 2X, the LG Optimus Black and the LG Optimus 3D. With the pre-loaded “Remote Call” application users can diagnose their phone’s problems without having to visit a repair shop.
Once registered, LG CIC agents will be able to wirelessly access the owner’s Optimus smartphone. For security purposes, LG technical staff will not be able to access any personal information – including emails, messages, calendars or pictures – without the users’ consent.
Using the convenient, intelligent LG FOTA system and pre-loaded FOTA application, owners will also receive regular alerts of the most current updates. The system makes it extremely convenient for customers to keep their phones up-to-date with the very latest functions and features without the need to connect to a PC or visit a service center.
LG’s remote customer care services will be made available to customers in Europe, the Asia Pacific region and South and Central America throughout the second half of the year.
The cuts will see 11 per cent of the Canadian tech giant, which practically invented the smartphone market until Apple came along with its pesky iPhone, collecting their P45s as the company struggles to keep up with the game.
RIM’s first foray into the tablet market with its business-centric PlayBook device seems to have been an unmitigated disaster, with reports suggesting that the company has only managed to ship 50,000 units of the touch-screen gadget.
It looks like things are being further shaken up at the company’s Ontario HQ with COO Don Morrison taking early retirement and Thorsten Heins stepping into his shoes in an expanded role of COO of product and sales.
RIM said in a statement that it would be shedding staff throughout the company in an attempt to “focus on areas that offer the highest growth opportunities,” according to Bloomberg.
RIM’s BlackBerry handsets, which were once the de facto standard for besuited business types because of their bombproof email and messaging services, have since been overtaken by devices running Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android operating systems.
The company announced last month that it had failed to meet even lowered profit forecasts and had reduced shipments of hardware in light of reduced sales.
The company’s stock has dropped 52 per cent already this year and is bound to take another kicking once this news gets out.
LG RAISES THE ANTE WITH TWO NEW GINGERBREAD SMARTPHONES
LG Optimus Pro and Optimus Net Bolsters Company’s Strength in Offering ‘Androids For Everyone’
Seoul, July 15, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) today introduced two additions to the LG Optimus Series of smartphones — the LG Optimus Pro (LG-C660) and the LG Optimus Net (LG-P690) running on the latest Android 2.3 platform. Known as “Gingerbread,” version 2.3 of Google’s Android mobile operating system offers enhanced multimedia support, enhanced power management and better gaming support.
“Today’s customers want genuine choice, phones with a different mix of features and technology for different segments of the market,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “And that’s precisely what we’ve done with Optimus Pro and Optimus Net, two completely new devices which enhance LG’s reputation as the company with an Android smartphone suitable for everyone.”
LG OPTIMUS PRO – Simple Social Networking with Both QWERTY and Touch
The first LG Optimus smartphone with a portrait bar QWERTY keyboard, the LG Optimus Pro offers the best of both a physical keyboard and touch display. The 2.8-inch display provides quick navigation while the QWERTY keyboard is ergonomically designed for fast and accurate typing. Dedicated hotkeys for email and scheduler enable instant access for enhanced speed and convenience. Optimus Pro will be available in white, titan, as well as black.
LG OPTIMUS NET – The Next Generation of Social Communication
Featuring LG Social+™, the Optimus Net combines the most popular social networking portals in one convenient widget right on the homescreen. With a single click, users can multitask between updating their status on Facebook and Twitter while reading their friends’ social media feeds on the same screen. The integrated social widget provides one-click photo sharing with multiple social media accounts from the home screen. In addition, the 3.2 HVGA (320 x 480) display delivers clearer, sharper viewing of multimedia content while the LG SmartShare™ function allows easy sharing of content with other DLNA-friendly devices.
Specifications for the Optimus Net will vary market by market. Depending on the carrier, some of the phones in Europe will be Near Field Communication (NFC) capable for mobile payments. The North American version will include a QWERTY keyboard and in Brazil, China, Asia and the CIS region, the Optimus Net will be dual SIM-compatible. The phone will be available in white, as well as black.
Both the Optimus Pro and Optimus Net boast the largest 1500mAh battery in their class and an 800 MHz CPU, ensuring longer, better performance.
The two smartphones will be available starting this summer, rolling out in 30 markets beginning in Europe.
LG JOINS EXPANDING PORTABLE GAMING MARKET WITH OPTIMUS 3D AND HIGH QUALITY GAMES FROM GAMELOFT
Stereoscopic 3D Games on High-End Smartphone Usher in a New Era of Handheld Entertainment
SEOUL, July 7, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) announced its entry into the expanding handheld gaming market with the launch of the LG Optimus 3D in Korea and the introduction of 17 Stereoscopic 3D (S-3D) games from leading mobile video game developer Gameloft.
“Today’s smartphones have the horsepower to compete with the best portable gaming devices and LG Optimus 3D is our proof,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “We think 3D is the natural next step in portable entertainment and LG is eager to throw its hat in the ring with the Optimus 3D and Gameloft’s ‘must-be-seen-to-be-believed’ titles.”
Full versions of three Gameloft titles will come pre-installed on new Optimus 3D smartphones with the remaining S-3D games available for download at significantly discounted prices for LG Optimus 3D owners. The three included S-3D games are Asphalt 6: Adrenaline, N.O.V.A. — Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance and Let’s Golf! 2. The games received wide acclaim in their original versions and were specifically chosen for the realism and immersive game play they would provide when digitally re-mastered into S-3D.
“The most recent data shows iOS and Android devices are capturing a growing part of the portable gaming market by revenue,” said Michel Guillemot, President of Gameloft. “With the next generation of smartphones offering 3D capabilities, the bar has been raised to a new height. On the Optimus 3D, we’re able to offer our most popular titles to an entirely new audience at very competitive price points.”
Fourteen additional Gameloft S-3D games will be available for download via the 3D Games icon on the LG Optimus 3D. Titles such as: Assassin’s Creed: Altaïr’s Chronicles, James Cameron’s Avatar, Ultimate Spider Man: Total Mayhem, GT Racing: Motor Academy, Shrek Kart, Modern Combat 2: Black Pegasus, Real Football 2011, Star Battalion, N.O.V.A. 2 — Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance, Dungeon Hunter 2, Fishing Kings, BackStab, Eternal Legacy and Shadow Guardian will be offered to Optimus 3D owners at half price for the first three months. Archer Craft, an LG produced S-3D game, will also be available as a free download.
Special software available only on Optimus 3D allows for real-time conversion of 2D photo and video content into 3D. Furthermore, LG is taking content creation to a new level with a free software that can convert 2D games to 3D, available for download to all Optimus 3D owners in the third quarter.
“The convergence of communication, the internet and entertainment all on one device was what made smartphones so popular so quickly,” added LG’s Dr. Park. “3D on smartphones is what color was to television – it introduces an entirely new level of viewing enjoyment. Playing a Gameloft 3D title on an LG Optimus 3D is simply taking that enjoyment and multiplying it by a factor of ten. It’s an experience that’s guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face.”
The LG Optimus 3D, the world’s first smartphone with full 3D and Tri-Dual (dual-core, dual-channel, dual-memory) architecture, was designed for maximum performance and efficiency, ideal for the high processing power required for gaming and viewing videos. The LG Optimus 3D is currently being introduced in over 60 markets around the world. The preloaded games will be available from launch, with further downloadable games rolling out over the coming months through a dedicated 3D Games icon.
This is a 2D-barcode containing the address of our mobile site.If your mobile has a barcode reader, simply snap this bar code with the camera and launch the site.
