RIM Responds To The Open Letter From An Employee, Doubts Its Authenticity

In response to this morning’s Open Letter from a purportedly “high level” RIM employee addressed to the co-CEOs of the company, RIM sent over the following statement:

An “Open Letter” to RIM’s senior management was published anonymously on the web today and it was attributed to an unnamed person described as a “’high level employee”. It is obviously difficult to address anonymous commentary and it is particularly difficult to believe that a “high level employee” in good standing with the company would choose to anonymously publish a letter on the web rather than engage their fellow executives in a constructive manner, but regardless of whether the letter is real, fake, exaggerated or written with ulterior motivations, it is fair to say that the senior management team at RIM is nonetheless fully aware of and aggressively addressing both the company’s challenges and its opportunities.

RIM recently confirmed that it is nearing the end of a major business and technology transition. Although this transition has taken longer than anticipated, there is much excitement and optimism within the company about the new products that are lined up for the coming months. There is a fundamental business reality however that following an extended period of hyper growth (during which RIM nearly quadrupled in size over the past 5 years alone), it has become necessary for the company to streamline its operations in order to allow it to grow its business profitably while pursuing newer strategic opportunities. Again, RIM’s management team takes these challenges seriously and is actively addressing the situation. The company is thankfully in a solid business and financial position to tackle the opportunities ahead with a solid balance sheet (nearly $3 billion in cash and no debt), strong profitability (RIM’s net income last quarter was $695 million) and substantial international growth (international revenue in Q1 grew 67% over the same quarter last year). In fact, while growth has slowed in the US, RIM still shipped 13.2 million BlackBerry smartphones last quarter (which is about 100 smartphones per minute, 24 hours per day) and RIM is more committed than ever to serving its loyal customers and partners around the world.

Interesting that RIM so openly suggests that the letter is a fake — especially considering that the Boy Genius claims to have verified the “high level” identity of the source himself. If there’s any company wherein one generally need not question BGR’s sources, it’s RIM.

Samsung Launches Faster High-performance Memory Cards for 4G Smartphones

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., the world leader in advanced memory technology, today announced production of its high-performance micro Secure Digital (microSD) cards with advanced data transfer speeds that support the performance requirements on fourth generation (4G) smartphones. The new 20-nanometer-class* microSD cards have a class 10 speed rating suitable for seamless data storage and transmission of full HD video, one of the features becoming highly popular among 4G smartphone users.

“The industry demand for high-class-rated memory cards addresses the growing performance push for next generation mobile applications in more advanced smartphones including 4G models,” said Wanhoon Hong, executive vice president, memory sales & marketing, Samsung Electronics. ”As the industry adopts microSD cards with a class 10 rating, the superior data transfer speeds are expected to improve the mobile user experience tremendously.”

Skype 2.0 brings two-way video calling to Nexus S, Desire S, Xperia Neo and Xperia Pro

The latest update to Skype's Android application has just been rolled out and a big part of its goodie delivery is two-way video calling. Only a quartet of phones are supported right now: Google's own Nexus S, HTC's Desire S, and the Xperia Neo and Pro from Sony Ericsson, all handsets that shipped with Android 2.3 installed. We suspect the rest of the Android world won't be far behind -- Thunderbolt users will surely be wondering why they're not included in this first batch -- but for now it's just that fearsome foursome. Also included in Skype v2.0.0.45 is a UI overhaul and support for SMS messaging, neither of which suffers from any handset restrictions. Hit up the Android Market on your phone (the web Market still lists version 1) to get at the latest software.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Update: We've just spent a little quality time with Skype 2.0 and its newfangled video calling. Notably, we couldn't get a video call to work between the Xperia Neo and a desktop version of Skype -- it was only possible to get video when calling between the Neo and the similarly compatible HTC Desire S. Once we did establish a connection, though, frame rates were smooth and buttery and the UI is simple and unintrusive yet offers quite a few functions. You can mute the call, choose between the front- or rear-facing camera, reposition the small window that shows your video feed anywhere on the screen, or -- with a double tap upon that window -- switch focus so that your own video output dominates the screen and your buddy's feed is relocated to the smaller preview. It's a great looking implementation of video calling, though we did only test it over WiFi, 3G performance may be materially worse.

Sprint’s HTC Evo 3D Caught Prepping For T-Mo’s 4G Network?

HTC’s line of Evo phones have long been Sprint exclusives, and are arguably the number three carrier’s shining stars. Interestingly enough, Sprint’s most recent (and also most awesome) phone, the Evo 3D has been spotted passing through the FCC sporting T-Mobile’s AWS bands. A trip to the FCC doesn’t necessarily mean that T-Mobile is for sure, without a doubt picking up the Evo 3D, but it does give a little hope to T-Mobile customers who aren’t keen on the pink carrier’s current front-runner, the Sensation 4G.

Here’s a quick specs refresher on the HTC Evo 3D: It packs glasses-free 3D onto its 4.3-inch qHD display, touts a 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, runs Android 2.3 Gingerbread and comes with HTC’s Sense UI. It’s dual 5-megapixel rear-facing cameras capture 3D still images, and a 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera is on board, as well. The phone also has 4G support from Sprint’s WiMax network, and should it creep on over to T-Mo, the Evo 3D will pack T-Mobile’s HSPA+ 4G AWS bands, too.

[via TmoNews]

Symantec report on mobile security concludes iOS and Android both vulnerable to attacks

In Symantec's bleak, dystopian world, it doesn't matter whether you choose Android or iOS -- you'll be making yourself vulnerable to attacks regardless of the camp you're in. The company just concluded a study pitting iOS's security against Android's -- an undertaking intended mainly for corporate IT staffs trying to figure out which devices they can safely issue to employees. (Curiously, despite the enterprise focus, you won't find a single comparison against BlackBerrys.) Although iOS won higher marks when it came to thwarting traditional malware and showed a more modest advantage in terms of data loss, data integrity, and service attacks, the two platforms proved equally adept at preventing web-based attacks -- and equally powerless to catch socially engineered ones. And when it came to implementing certain security measures, such as permissions-based controls, Android pulled ahead.

Ultimately, Symantec (which sells mobile security software of its own, by the by) concluded that both "are still vulnerable to many existing categories of attacks," not least because both platforms allow users to sync with third-party apps or web services that may or may not be secure themselves. Indeed, Symantec's thesis is that Apple's App Store approval process helps explain its lead in the malware-blocking department. Also, in shocking news, Symantec adds that people using jailbroken are especially attractive targets for attackers, and that these devices are as vulnerable as computers. Don't say no one warned you. Head past the break for a press release with a summary of the findings or, if you're curious, hit the source link for a PDF version of the full report.

Show full PR text

Symantec Analysis of Apple's iOS and Google's Android Platform Cites Improved Security over PCs, but Major Gaps Remain
The mass adoption of both consumer and managed mobile devices exposes enterprises to new security risks

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. – June 28, 2011 – Symantec Corp. (Nasdaq: SYMC) today announced the publication of "A Window into Mobile Device Security: Examining the security approaches employed in Apple's iOS and Google's Android" (PDF). This whitepaper conducts an in-depth, technical evaluation of the two predominant mobile platforms, Apple's iOS and Google's Android, in an effort to help corporations understand the security risks of deploying these devices in the enterprise.

Chief among the findings is that while the most popular mobile platforms in use today were designed with security in mind, these provisions are not always sufficient to protect sensitive enterprise assets that regularly find their way onto devices. Complicating matters, today's mobile devices are increasingly being connected to and synchronized with an entire ecosystem of 3rd-party cloud and desktop-based services outside the enterprise's control, potentially exposing key enterprise assets to increased risk.

The paper offers a detailed analysis of the security models employed by Apple's iOS and Google's Android platforms, evaluating each platform's effectiveness against today's major threats, including:

Web-based and network-based attacks
Malware
Social engineering attacks
Resource and service availability abuse
Malicious and unintentional data loss
Attacks on the integrity of the device's data

This analysis has led to some important conclusions:

While offering improved security over traditional desktop-based operating systems, both iOS and Android are still vulnerable to many existing categories of attacks.
iOS's security model offers strong protection against traditional malware, primarily due to Apple's rigorous app certification process and their developer certification process, which vets the identity of each software author and weeds out attackers.

Google has opted for a less rigorous certification model, permitting any software developer to create and release apps anonymously, without inspection. This lack of certification has arguably led to today's increasing volume of Android-specific malware.

Users of both Android and iOS devices regularly synchronize their devices with 3rd-party cloud services (e.g., web-based calendars) and with their home desktop computers. This can potentially expose sensitive enterprise data stored on these devices to systems outside the governance of the enterprise..

So-called "jailbroken" devices, or devices whose security has been disabled, offer attractive targets for attackers since these devices are every bit as vulnerable as traditional PCs.

Rumour:Sony PS Vita Coming November 4th

When Sony announced the new PS Vita, we were told that it would go on sale before the end of the year, and now one UK retailer, Shopto has listed the PS Vita on their site for pre-order with a launch date of the 4th of November 2011.

Of course this date has yet to be confirmed with Sony, although November does seem like a good launch date for the PS Vita, as it is just in time for the Christmas shopping rush, and Sony are probably hoping that the PS Vita will be on every gamers list this Christmas.

The PS Vita comes with a 5 inch multi-touch OLED display, on the back of the Vita there is also a multi-touch pad which can be used for controlling games along with the two analog sticks on the front of the console.

There will be two different models available, a WiFi only model which will retail for $249.99 and a WiFi and 3G model which will retail for $299.99.

It will be interesting to see if the Sony PS Vita becomes the popular handheld console this Christmas, and we suspect it may be more popular amongst gamers than the Nintendo 3DS.

OnLive CEO reveals 'entirely new approach' to wireless, credits Rearden for toppling Shannon's Law

"In advance, yes -- you're right, it's impossible. But nonetheless, we have ten radios all working at the same frequency, all at the Shannon limit... and there's no interference." You may not fully grok the significance of that statement, but anyone heavily involved in solving the wireless bandwidth crisis is probably dropjawed. For a little background, there's a perceived limit in wireless known as Shannon's Law, which largely explains why no one can watch a YouTube clip on their EVO at Michigan Stadium. For whatever reason, it's been assumed that this law was fundamentally unbreakable, but it looks as if an unlikely member of society may have just overrode expectations. OnLive's CEO Steve Perlman recently revealed a breakthrough from Rearden Companies -- in short, they've figured out a workaround, and in testing, it's doing things like "removing dead zones" altogether. His slide, shown during a presentation at Columbia, notes that the implications here are "profound," and we couldn't agree more. Do yourself a solid and hit play in the video below the break -- we've fast-forwarded to where this section begins.

Sleek, Powerful Motorola MT870 is the World’s First Dual Core TD-SCDMA Smartphone with the latest Android 2.3

Motorola MT870

Motorola Mobility Technologies (China) Co., Ltd today announced the release in China of MOTO MT870, the world’s first dual-core TD-SCDMA 3G smartphone. With Android 2.3 “Gingerbread”, a vivid 4-inch qHD screen and a dual-core processor with each core running at 1GHz, MOTO MT870 provides Chinese consumers with a great mobile browsing experience on China Mobile’s 3G network. MOTO MT870’s innovative design is available in two fashionable color options to match your style. 

MOTO MT870 is also the first phone to come with Motorola and China Mobile’s brand new, combined Mobile Market-SHOP4APPS application store. Bringing together the strengths, applications and capabilities of both app stores, Mobile Market-SHOP4APPS offers a huge range of applications and services designed especially for Chinese people and an easy shopping experience. It is now easier than ever for Motorola and China Mobile customers to find and download the hottest apps available.

 

“Our partnership with Motorola has a long and successful history, and we are pleased to collaborate with Motorola on the launch of MOTO MT870 and this brand new app store,” said Sha Yuejia, vice president of China Mobile Communications Corporation. “Like Motorola, China Mobile is also committed to enabling better user-experiences through better software, and Mobile Market-SHOP4APPS offered the perfect opportunity for us to collaborate.”

 

“Motorola’s goal is to bring the best mobile experience to all users around the world,” said Sanjay Jha, Chairman and CEO of Motorola Mobility, Inc. “China is our second largest market in the world and we have a tradition of creating premium devices and premium experiences specifically for Chinese people. The launch of MT870 and our joint app store with China Mobile is a great way to continue this tradition.”

 

“The MOTO MT870 and new Mobile Market-Shop4Apps store highlights the strong relationship between Motorola Mobility and China Mobile, and is a first for our companies in terms of software innovation.” said Frank Meng, corporate senior vice president, and president, Greater China of Motorola Mobility, Inc. “We continue to build on our commitment to creating products and services especially for China. Motorola Mobility is proud to release such a high-end device on China’s high-speed TD-SCDMA network, and we are excited for our customers in China to experience it.”

 

It’s now easier than ever to multitask with MOTO MT870. The lightning-fast 2x1GHz dual-core processor partnered with China Mobile’s 3G network or Wi-Fi makes browsing web pages up to two-times faster and the phone super-responsive, allowing you to quickly open and close apps. You can read the latest news, check your emails, and do a quick search simultaneously. With the dedicated graphical engine-GPU, MOTO MT870 achieves outstanding performance in video, gaming and other multimedia applications. And with its incredible battery life, MOTO MT870 can keep up with all the ways you want to use it.

 

With an HD (1080p) video recorder and a big, bright 16:9 4-inch qHD touch screen, MOTO MT870 is a personal multimedia center, delivering a true cinematic experience. Users can enjoy true mobile-computing with the powerful combination of an HTML browser and AdobeTM FlashTM player. An 8 megapixel camera and built-in LED flash help you capture your favorite moments, and thanks to support for HDMI output, DLNA and WLAN, it’s easy to share them with your family and friends

 

Additional Features and Specifications:

 

Supports for 3D games, enabling PC-like gaming experiences

Up to 40GB of storage – 8GB internal and up to 32GB optional external Micro-SD card, enough to store thousands of songs, photos and movies

4” qHD (960×540) touchscreen display

Supports aGPS and independent GPS satellite positioning and navigation. Supports 3D Map1

Supports Adobe Flash multimedia full web browsing

Pre-loaded latest version of multi-media Sticky Notes, business card and text scanning, and other business applications

Powerful email system supports POP3/IMAP4/Exchange, etc.

Smart Dial, contact grouping and group SMS message sending and management

Supports China Mobile’s services (Fetion, TeleNav, 139 Mail, CMMB, etc.)1/4

New Quickoffice, diversified formats file browsing/editing, including Word/Excel/PowerPoint/PDF

Large 1880 mAh battery with power management providing longer battery life

 

 

Price and Availabily

 

MOTO MT870 will be available from authorized Motorola resellers and China Mobile’s stores across China from July 2011 at a suggested retail price of RMB 4,680.

 

Nokia Updates to Symbian 3.2 and 5.0

If you’re the proud owner of a Nokia E72, Nokia 5230 or other Nokia phone powered by a Symbian version prior to Symbian^3, I’m sure you’ll be as pleased as we are to hear that some new features will be coming to your phone soon. Read on to find out what’s being added.

Despite the arrival of the new Symbian platform and new phones such as the Nokia X7 and E6, the older devices that people are carrying in their pockets for years have not been forgotten by any means. The software team at Nokia has been working hard on bringing updates to these phones, too, in order to improve their feature set, as well as to provide the usual fixes and improvements.

Customise your iPhone 4 With 20 percent Discount

Goldgenie iPhone 4, gold plated iPhone 4

Goldgenie are offering you the opportunity to have your iPhone 4 gold plated in luxurious 24ct. gold and sent back to you within 3 days of arrival at our offices. Not only that be they are going to give you a whopping 20% discount on this service. So quite simply enter the discount code 700bbb at the checkout or quote this number if placing a telephone order and you will have 20% discounted off the total price!

 

Mobile payments set to explode

Juniper Research figures show the number of people using mobile payment technology is set to reach 2.5 billion by 2015

The number of people making mobile payments for digital goods is set to increase by 40 per cent to 2.5 billion by 2015, new figures show.

According to Juniper Research, demand for things like mobile transport and entertainment tickets are most likely to be the major drivers of this growth.

Speaking about the findings Juniper research senior analyst David Snow said that although growth in the mobile payments sector would be strong it needed additional platforms from which to expand further.

“Whilst the mobile payments sector offers substantial growth opportunities, it needs to be seen by innovative players as a platform from which to develop new value added applications and services such as personalised mobile coupons, loyalty schemes, and novel augmented reality offerings,” Snow said.

But Juniper also warned about the increasing risk of security attacks on certain types of mobile payments such as premium SMS (PSMS) and direct billing especially where fraudulent activity would grow.

The research showed that the major growth areas for mobile payment would be in the Far East which will account for about 30 per cent of all mobile payments in 2015.

The Indian Sub-Continent is expected to exceed 400 million by the same year.

Nokia is Flooding the Scene with 4 Additional Phones

Nokia is on a rampage recently. We have seen quite too many over the past week with 2 MeeGos, 1 Windows Phone, the Symbian Anna-powered N5, and now, another set joins in the crowd over 4 new additional Symbian Belle phones. Yes, Symbian in Nokia is more than alive and kicking as shown on the recent trends. The names of the gadgets will be different this time around, not even included on the N-series, E-series, C-series, and the X-series. They will be known in only three digits, currently having codenames of their own for project purposes.

Nokia 500 Fate, Nokia 600 Cindy, Nokia 700 Zeta, and Nokia 701 Helen, share a common denominator of having 1 GHz processors, Symbian Belle, and focus on various market targets. Other features on these various models vary on NFCs, powerful cameras, larger screens, built-in radio antenna, and price range. Since these are Symbians, would it still stand a chance for customers who have been too comfortable with Androids and iOS?

Source: Unwired View

Motorola Mobility Unveils New IPTV Set-Top with a ‘Click-in’ DVR Module

Motorola VIP1853, IPTV Set-Top, DVR Module, Digital Video Recording, DVR capacity, DVR module

Motorola Mobility UK Ltd is giving service providers an elegant and cost-effective solution for expanding their service offerings with the new Motorola VIP1853 – an IP set-top with a ‘click-in’ Digital Video Recording (DVR) module. The Motorola VIP1853 was designed to reduce set-top box deployment costs for operators without compromising on performance by enabling them to choose the DVR capacity for set-tops. 

With the Motorola VIP1853, service providers can market a set-top that can be easily upgraded for customers wanting to add DVR capability to their basic box or wanting to expand their recording capacity with an additional or larger capacity module. The flexible design of the Motorola VIP1853 offers a choice of DVR capacity – it has an 8GB DVR module that supports trick play/pause functionality, and hard drive capacity can be increased to 160, 320 or 500GB for full featured DVR functionality.

 

“The Motorola VIP1853 can further strengthen the operator’s relationship with its subscriber base and differentiates its position in the marketplace by offering a high performance IP set-top with a lower cost DVR option,” said Keith Kelley, vice president, home devices, Motorola Mobility. “The modular design of the Motorola VIP1853 is attractive and environmentally friendly, and allows subscribers to increase the enjoyment of their home entertainment service with its opt-in DVR capacity at an affordable and easy-to-control price point.”

 

This latest addition to Motorola’s line of high-performance, IP set tops, comes in a sleek, compact design and by optimizing the feature set and employing an efficient mechanical design, Motorola has achieved an extremely cost-effective solution. In addition, the Motorola VIP1853 has low power consumption thereby helping to minimize its impact on the environment.

 

The Motorola VIP1853 works on the same hardware platform and runs on the same software as the highly successful Motorola VIP19x3 and Motorola VIP1003 set tops and boasts an even higher performance level. It is compatible with Motorola KreaTV 4.2 or higher, Motorola’s open software application framework designed to enable operators to deliver carrier-class IPTV services, while being able to easily add new functionality and services at any time. This allows the service provider to grow according to business needs and customer demands.

 

The Motorola VIP1853 is expected to be available for delivery globally from Q3 2011 and be launched by a major European operator by the end of 2011.

 

Fastest Notebook GPU Ever with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 580M

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 580M GPU, NVIDIA, GeForce, GTX, 580M, GPU, Alienware M18x Notebook, Alienware M17x Notebook Notebook

NVIDIA today announced the world’s fastest notebook graphics processing unit (GPU)i, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 580M. Available now in the Alienware M18x, the new GPU sets new standards in industry leading benchmarks and games. It will also be available soon in the Alienware M17x notebook along with NVIDIA Optimus technology.

“The best game support. The best gaming features. The best gaming performance available anywhere. That’s the essence of the GeForce GTX 580M,” said Rene Haas, general manager of notebook products at NVIDIA. “With power like this, you can turn all the knobs to 11.”

 

The first notebook PC to feature the GeForce GTX 580M, the Alienware M18x offers the option of two GeForce GTX 580M GPUs in one system for up to double the gaming performance, using NVIDIA SLI technology. Not to be outdone, the Alienware M17x will offer the GeForce GTX 580M along with NVIDIA Optimus technology and will deliver 5 hours of battery life in Facebook, and 100 frames per second performance in Call of Duty: Black Ops.

 

“Gamers aspire to experience games at their highest settings,” says Eddy Goyanes, product marketing manager for Alienware. “Alienware activates the technology designed to enable those aspirations. With the launch of the GeForce GTX 580M on the Alienware M17x, and a dual card option on the M18x, that synergy continues — Alienware delivers the ultimate gaming experience.”

 

GeForce GTX 580M GPUs are the fastest Microsoft DirectX 11 notebook GPUs on the market, offering up to six times the tessellation performance of any other notebook GPU.ii They are also more efficient, with up to 20 percent better performance per watt than the previous generation.iii

 

NVIDIA also introduced the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 570M GPU, which offers 20 percent faster performance than the previous generation product it replaces.iv

 

The power of GeForce GTX GPUs means gamers can play at full 1080p high-definition resolutions with the advanced technology features that set GeForce GPUs apart from the competition. These include:

Support for NVIDIA 3D Vision technology, the #1 3D experience for notebooks, which automatically converts over 525 titles into immersive 3D.

Support for NVIDIA 3DTV Play software, for connecting 3D Vision-based notebooks to 3D TVs.

NVIDIA SLI technology, which links two GTX GPUs for up to double your gaming performance.

NVIDIA Optimus technology, which enables extra-long battery life by automatically switching on and off the GPU so that it runs only when needed.

NVIDIA PhysX engine support, which brings games to life with realistic physics.

NVIDIA CUDA architecture support, for GPU computing applications.

NVIDIA Verde notebook drivers, for frequent performance improvements and rock-solid stability.

 

Find the perfect VAIO this summer

Sony VAIO Z, Sony stylish PC, Sony VAIO F, Sony 3D notebook, Sony VAIO E, Sony VAIO C, Sony VAIO S, Sony VAIO Y, Sony VAIO L

This summer’s range of VAIO PCs by Sony lets you work and relax with more power, more mobility… and loads more style.

NEW 13.1” VAIO Z Series: ultimate performance and design, less than 1.2kg and 16.65mm slim with new Power Media Dock 1

16.0” VAIO F Series: 3D notebook with one-touch 3D button

15.5” and 17.3” VAIO E Series: easy, smart, stylish notebook

14.0” and 15.5” VAIO C Series: notebook with radical ‘glow’ style options

13.3” VAIO S Series: slim, light and powerful with smart battery concept

11.6” VAIO Y Series: fully-featured notebook with up to 6 hours2 battery stamina

24.0” VAIO L Series: all-in-one home PC with Full HD multi-touch screen and bezel sensor

Ultimate performance and design: new VAIO Z Series notebook PC 13.1” (33.2cm)

 

Just 1.15kg and 16.65mm slim, brand-new VAIO Z Series blends must-have styling and premium materials with heavyweight performance. In the office or on the road, the most powerful VAIO notebook yet from Sony delivers ultimate on-the-move computing power.

 

VAIO Z highlights include a stunning VAIO Display Premium screen with a resolution of 1600×900, up to 256GB SSD RAID storage and Quick Boot that gets you working faster. Adding a thin, flat optional secondary battery boasts stamina to up to 14 hours2 for day-and-night working, even if you’re far from mains power. There’s also a HD web camera powered by Exmor technology for crisper, clearer conferencing and web chats, even in low light.

 

It’s the first ever VAIO that boosts productivity even further with the unique Power Media Dock 1. Connected to this monolithic expansion module via an optical cable, VAIO Z effortlessly handles intensive graphics tasks and can drive up to three external monitors – a perfect solution for design, finance and science professionals.

 

Bring your 3D world to life: VAIO F Series notebook PC 16.0” (40.6cm)

 

 

Slip on your active shutter glasses and immerse yourself in an exciting world of 3D movies, games and videos with VAIO F Series.

 

The 16.0” Full HD VAIO Display Premium brings entertainment to life with a brilliant 3D image that’s optimised for comfortable, flicker-free viewing. Just press the 3D button and switch instantly between 2D and 3D viewing. ‘Native’ supported 3D content includes movies on Blu-ray Disc, games and videos. You can also enjoy 3D panoramic still images captured with Cyber-shot digital cameras and ? DSLR digital cameras by Sony. In addition, 2D movies on Blu-ray Disc or DVD can be instantly up-converted to simulated 3D video at the touch of a button.

 

Easy, smart, stylish: VAIO E Series notebook PC 15.5” (39.5cm) and 17.3” (43.8cm)

 

A great entry into the world of VAIO, VAIO E Series handles your everyday computing needs with ease. Smart looks and a range of colour finishes are accentuated by an attractive textured finish that’s easy to hold while you’re on the move. The comfortable keyboard is complemented on all models by a separate numeric keypad for easy, rapid data entry. Practicality and ease of use is underlined by the Quick Web button that gets you online and surfing in seconds, while time-saving ASSIST and VAIO buttons boost your productivity further.

 

Selected models feature an integrated Blu-ray Disc player for enjoying movies and more on the clear, high-contrast VAIO Display screen. An HDMI output connects VAIO to your HD TV, while support for the latest Bluetooth® 3.0 allows easy cable-free connection with other devices around the home.

 

Light up your life: colourful VAIO C Series notebook PC 14.0” (35.5cm) and 15.5” (39.5cm)

 

With eye-grabbing looks that demand attention, colourful VAIO C Series makes a dramatic lifestyle statement. Its radical style direction offers a choice of fashion colours for 14.0” screen size models, including two special orange and green ‘light emitting’ options. This audacious design scatters light along edges of the translucent PC lid and other key surfaces, creating a dramatic ‘glow’. 15.5” models are available in a choice of black or white finishes.

 

The high contrast 14.0” (35.5cm) / 15.5” (39.5cm) real-wide VAIO Display with LED backlighting provides plenty of screen space for web browsing or document editing. The backlit keyboard is complemented by a multi-touch pad and ambient light sensor that optimises screen brightness for a comfortable view in daylight or darkness.

 

Included on selected models, hybrid graphics switch automatically between performance and battery-saving modes to suit the task in hand. A 3D-capable HDMI output connects VAIO to your 3D TV for enjoying 3D movies or games on the big screen (for models configured with Blu-ray Disc player).

 

15.5” VAIO C Series models offer the additional refinement of USB 3.0 SuperSpeed and Bluetooth 3.0 wireless connectivity. They can also be configured to order with a Full HD (1920×1080) VAIO Display Plus.

 

Power in motion: slim, light VAIO S Series notebook PC 13.3” (33.7cm)

 

The smarter choice for business, VAIO S Series features a stylish ‘full flat’ design for enhanced mobility and robustness. Less than 24mm thin, it weighs a travel-friendly 1.75kg (approx.).

 

The innovative ‘Smart battery’ concept lets you keep working day and night without a pause. The internal Lithium Polymer battery gives power for up to 7 hours2 computing time (in stamina mode). A thin optional secondary Lithium Polymer battery can be charged separately from the PC and attached at any time, boosting total stamina up to 14 hours2.

 

The Dynamic Hybrid Graphics System switches seamlessly between integrated GPU and high-performance graphics card for an optimised balance between performance and endurance. The LCD screen’s advanced low-reflection coating allows easy viewing in any lighting conditions, offering the optimum balance of suppressing reflections while maintaining clear images.

 

Fast Boot saves precious time when you’re in a hurry, loading Genuine Windows® 7 up to 50% quicker than conventional notebooks. There’s also a conveniently-placed WEB button that powers up your PC for Internet access in seconds. Embedded VAIO ‘everywair’ 3G WWAN on selected models lets you connect on the move via your mobile broadband operator at up to 7.2Mbps.

 

Travel light: VAIO Y Series fully-featured notebook PC 11.6” (29.4cm)

 

With ample processing power and generous 6 hours1 battery life, VAIO Y Series is a fully-featured PC that’s styled for an effortless computing experience, whether you’re staying in contact with friends or catching up on work outside the office.

 

Weighting less than 1.5kg, it’s easy to carry and hold with a tough, eye-catching chassis and cylindrical hinge design. The high contrast 11.6” (29.4cm) real-wide VAIO Display provides plenty of space for web browsing and document editing.

 

The full-pitch isolation keyboard assures comfortable, precise typing with an ergonomic touchpad for precision gestural control. There’s also a MOTION EYE web camera for video chat and an HDMI output for enjoying HD content on your HD TV.

 

VAIO Y Series is available with a choice of system configurations. VAIO YA targets business travellers who need to work harder with less to carry. Even more affordable, VAIO YB features VISION Technology by AMD for a smooth, vivid HD visual experience.

 

A touch of brilliance: VAIO L Series all-in-one PC 24.0” (61cm)

 

Everyone in the family can enjoy a beautiful view of videos, photos, games and more with the stylish VAIO L series multimedia PC.

 

The space-saving, all-in-one design showcases a 24.0” (61cm) VAIO Display Plus. This multi-touch screen with LED backlight brings Full HD content to life with superb clarity and contrast. The screen is surrounded by an innovative touch-sensitive bezel that gives friendly ‘no mouse’ access to key functions. Just touch the bezel to launch applications, navigate web pages, flick between on-screen windows and more.

 

An HDMI output connects VAIO L Series to any HD TV to watch video, photos, graphics and PC games. There’s also an HDMI input that turns VAIO into a Full HD monitor, even when the computer’s not booted up.

 

T-Mobile Debuts the myTouch 4G Slide with Most Advanced Camera

T-Mobile USA, Inc. today announced the myTouch 4G Slide, the latest 4G smartphone to join T-Mobile’s exclusive line of myTouch products. The myTouch 4G Slide features the most advanced camera of any smartphone with zero shutter lag, backside illuminated sensor and additional premium digital camera features that offer consumers a viable replacement for their digital point-and-shoot cameras. The myTouch 4G Slide is expected to be available in July. (see video above)

UberMedia Launches UberSocial 1.2 for BlackBerry with "Inner Circle"

UberMedia, the largest independent provider of applications for reading and posting to Twitter and other social media platforms, today announced the release of UberSocial 1.2 for BlackBerry. One of the longest-running and most popular apps on the BlackBerry platform, UberSocial (formerly UberTwitter) continues to set the bar on innovation with the introduction of a widely requested feature, the Inner Circle.

In addition to a user’s traditional timeline, Inner Circle allows you to elevate the most important people you follow to an exclusive timeline. In this way, users can stay in touch with the people who matter most by easily viewing tweets, replies and direct messages from anyone in their Inner Circle. Users can also set up special notifications for tweets, replies or DMs from anyone in the Inner Circle.

T-Mobile Announces MyTouch 4G Slide, More HSPA+ Markets

T-Mobile has announced the successor to the HTC-sourced MyTouch 3G Slide in the 4G Slide. The phone’s trump card is its rear-illuminated 8 megapixel camera with auto-focus, dual LED flash along with new features such as zero shutter lag via instant capture to cache when the Camera app is launched, Sweep Shot for capturing panoramas, HDR support, improved low-light performance, and burst shot support. It also captures 1080p HD video, and includes video editing software for on device editing.

The rest of the featureset includes a 3.7-inch Super LCD display, Android 2.3 Gingerbread, HTC Sense 3.0, 1.2GHz dual-core Snapdragon processor, as well as a slide-out QWERTY keyboard for messaging and adds group messaging, Qik video chat software along with the now standard HTC Genius Button for voice commands. The phone will be launched next month with pricing set at $199.99 after new 2 year agreement and availability information to be determined.

In related news, T-Mobile has announced the rollout of more 4G markets with the latest in Barnstable, Mass.; Chico, Calif.; Lancaster, Penn.; Ogden, Utah; Redding, Calif.; Vineland, N.J., and Winchester, Va. with the carrier now claiming HSPA+ coverage across 190 markets.

New Sprint Branded Motorola Android Smartphone Revealed

A new Sprint branded Motorola smartphone has been revealed in a grainy spy shot that looks almost identical to the recently released XPRT. The phone features a curved bodyshell with a QWERTY keyboard, Android Gingerbread and capacitive navigation keys. The phone is also expected to include WiMax but has not been confirmed.

Sprint and Motorola have recently renewed their relationship with new phones for the carrier in the XPRT, Photon 4G, Triumph for Virgin Mobile and the i1 successor in the Titanium, but this is the first time that this model has appeared with no mention in recent inventory listings or roadmaps.

The Engadget Show - 022: Gadgets get smashed, Rick Karr talks broadband, Peter Rojas and Ryan Block tell us what moved them

The Engadget Show is back! Last time it was gaming, this time we go for something with a bit more variety. The show starts with Tim and Brian taking a quick look over some of the month's biggest gadgets, like the Samsung Chromebook Series 5, the HTC EVO 3D, and a pair of new readers: the Barnes & Noble Nook WiFi and the Kobo eReader Touch Edition.

After that it's sledgehammer time, where Brian and Terrence work through some pent-up frustrations by beating the silicon out of a series of durable gadgets, all captured in delicious slow motion. Some survived, some did not. Then, we all learn a lesson as Rick Karr stops by to talk about the (sorry) state of US broadband compared to the rest of the world.

Next, we take it to the streets to ask you what your most important gadgets are before being joined in the studio by the Engadget founder Peter Rojas and Editor Emeritus Ryan Block, the duo behind GDGT, to talk about the gadgets that most affected them in their time at the site and beyond, also taking some questions from eager audience members about, well, gadgety things. Finally, we all get carried deep into the aural environment of Chrome Canyon.

It's a tech-heavy, action-packed show this week that you won't want to miss. So what are you waiting for? Watch it now! The video stream is above, or download the show in HD below!

Engadget Show 022

Hosts: Tim Stevens, Brian Heater
Special guests: Terrence O'Brien, Rick Karr, Peter Rojas, Ryan Block
Producer: Guy Streit
Director: Michelle Stahl
Executive Producers: Joshua Fruhlinger and Michael Rubens
Music and visuals by: Chrome Canyon

Taped live at AOL Studios

Download the Show: The Engadget Show - 022 (HD) / The Engadget Show - 022 (iPod / iPhone / Zune formatted) / The Engadget Show - 022 (Small)

Subscribe to the Show:

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T-Mobile Rolls Out HSPA+ In 7 New Regions — Is Yours One?

Another day, another carrier expanding their 4G network. This time around, it’s T-Mobile… which means calling it “4G” is technically a bit of a stretch, but hey, we’ve beat that horse enough at this point.

The latest regions to show up on T-Mobile’s HSPA+ coverage map: Chico, Calif.; Redding, Calif.; Barnstable, Mass.; Vineland, N.J.; Lancaster, Penn.; Ogden, Utah, and Winchester, Va.

If nothing else, T-Mobile customers at Chico State should be glad that they can totally send each other regrettable text messages, like, way faster now.

Vodafone launches new SME broadband plans

Operator says the six new tariffs have been specifically designed to stop confusion in the market place

Vodafone has launched a new range of mobile broadband packages which it says have been “tailored” specifically for the SME sector.

The new range consists of six different broadband packages all of which include internet security and online back up services as well at BT Openzone Wi-Fi access free of charge.

The packages range in contract length from three to 12 and 24 months and start from 3 a month and are compatible with laptops, tablets and mobile handsets.

Customers who sign up to an annual 36.50 a month contract with Vodafone will be eligible to receive 1GB of data to use across 35 European destinations on top of the 5GB they can use in the UK.

Speaking about the the new plans Vodafone Enterprise marketing director Peter Boucher said: “We have listened to our small and medium sized business customers and they have told us time and time again that the ‘one-package-fits-all’ approach doesn’t work for them.

“With so many different price plans and devices available in the market, business customers feel blinded by jargon and technology.

“We’ve completely redesigned mobile broadband with our small and medium sized business customers in mind, to deliver a range that is tailored, simple and flexible, all on the UK’s best network.”

 

TomTom HD Traffic Service Now Available on the TomTom App for iPhone

TomTom HD Traffic, TomTom App, Traffic Information, iPhone TomTom App

TomTom today announces that its newest update to the TomTom App for iPhone, version 1.8, now includes TomTom HD Traffic compatibility. TomTom HD Traffic enables drivers to get to their destination faster and is the most accurate, comprehensive and up-to-date traffic solution available. 

TomTom HD Traffic provides the most accurate traffic solution by reporting and capturing more actual traffic jams than ever before to help drivers avoid delays and find the fastest routes. Only TomTom HD Traffic will recognize traffic conditions for both major and secondary roads within the U.S. road network to help re-route drivers clear of traffic. Additionally, with traffic updates every two minutes, TomTom HD Traffic will help reroute drivers around traffic more quickly and get them to their destination faster. TomTom HD Traffic is an optional service available via an in-App purchase.

 

Expanding the availability of TomTom HD Traffic is one of the commitments that TomTom has outlined in its Traffic Manifesto, which is the company’s mission to reduce traffic congestion to everyone. Drivers using TomTom HD Traffic are helping reduce traffic congestion for themselves and every driver around them. For more information about TomTom’s Traffic Manifesto, visit www.tomtom.com/trafficmanifesto.

 

Also new to the TomTom App is multi-stop routes. This innovative feature makes it easier for drivers to make multiple stops on a single route by letting the user add up to five stop-off points when they plan their journey. This new App release also gives users the latest map which includes recent changes to the roads.

 

Availability

 

The latest version of the TomTom App for iPhone is available on the App Store starting today.

 

The TomTom App for iPhone v1.8 is available for purchase via the App Store. Continental and regional versions of the TomTom App are available today for iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G and iPod touch users at www.tomtom.com/tomtom-app.

 

TomTom HD Traffic is available via an in-App purchase for $19.99. Current TomTom Traffic subscribers will be automatically upgraded to TomTom HD Traffic service for no additional charge.

 

Apple To Samsung: If You Copy Us, We Won’t Let You Build Our Chips (So There!)

Just a couple months ago, Apple and Samsung were basically BFFs. Of course, they were still competitors, but their relationship was symbiotic. Samsung produced the A4 chips that run Apple’s iPhone 4 and the A5 chips found in the iPad 2, and in return, Apple became Samsung’s largest customer, providing the South Korea-based company with millions of dollars in revenue.

But the seas have grown rough between Cupertino and Seoul, with the two phone makers tied up in a massive patent war over all-too-similar product designs. A few harsh words were thrown back and forth, and as the suits progress, the tension between both companies has finally reached critical mass. The bond of BFF-hood has seemingly snapped like a twig, as Ars Technica reports that Apple will pull the multi-billion dollar rug out from under Samsung, and choose Taiwan SemiConductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) to produce the A6 chip.

This isn’t the first time rumors have surfaced about Apple leaving Samsung in the dust, although this time around, the news seems much more plausible. If Apple does in fact shift over to TSMC, it would be a pretty huge blow to Samsung, which received a $7.8 billion order from Apple in February for LCDs, processors, and NAND flash memory.

The good news is that this switcheroo by Apple may not hurt us end-users very much. The only downside would be that the next-gen iPad probably won’t get an AMOLED screen without Samsung in the mix.

[via IBT]

HTC Plans Full-Scale Attack On Mainland China, Looks To Triple Its Retail Presence

Ambitious goals are nothing new to HTC. As last year came to a close, the Taiwan-based phone maker promised to sell 60 million handsets in 2011, three times what it sold in 2010. With a good six months left before we see if that last goal will be met, HTC has vowed to add another 1,370 retail stores in mainland China, bringing its total to 2,000.

Again, this is a rather lofty goal to set, since HTC currently has just 630 retail locations in that market. Senior executive vice president Fred Liu believes that the company’s strong research and development work, broad product line, and new approach to retail will make HTC’s full-scale retail attack on the Chinese mainland a huge success. Along with the new shops-in-shop, HTC also has plans to roll out TD-SCDMA and WCDMA models of the HTC Sensation through China Mobile and China Unicom respectively.

[via TNW]

More Mango features uncovered: in-browser audio streams, Xbox Live voice chats, and more (video)

While we wait (rather impatiently, we might add) for Mango to make its official debut others are still playing with test builds, pouring over code, and digging up interesting tidbits about Microsoft's mobile OS update. That WP7 will be getting improved HTML5 support is nothing new but, that it will specifically support in-browser audio and continue to stream even if you navigate away from the browser or lock the screen, is music (literally) to our ears. Snippets discovered in a recent Mango dump have also turned up mentions of Xbox Live Voice chat, parties, multiplayer gaming, and tighter integration with the 360 for pushing Live content to your big screen. If you hit the WPSauce source link you'll find a whole host of other fascinating things in the WP7 code, and some details about just how deeply Facebook will be tied to the OS. But, before you go, check out the video of the HTML5 audio support in action after the break.

[Thanks, Charlie]

Portsmouth dealer amongst first PlayBook stockists

Easy Mobiles says it is amongst the first to offer BlackBerry PlayBook to its customers from 399

Portsmouth based dealer Easy Mobiles says it is one of the first partners in the UK to be able to offer the BlackBerry PlayBook to its customers.

It is the first tablet that the dealer has chosen to stock.

The device that went on general sale in across the country from earlier this month will be available for purchase from the dealer for 399.

The PlayBook runs on RIM’s all-new BlackBerry Tablet operating system and offers internet access, gaming, multitasking and enterprise features.

It has a 7-inch high resolution display, mixing performance and portability and is powered by a 1GHz dual-core processor.

The tablet also supports Adobe Flash 10.1 and has dual HD cameras for recording and video conferencing.

Easy Mobiles director Jim Guest says there has already been “great” interest from a number of business sectors regarding the device’s availability at the dealer.

“We are delighted to be able to offer the latest BlackBerry PlayBook to our portfolio of mobile solutions, it’s an amazing device, secure and enables you to effortlessly access your corporate data, emails and your calendar,” Guest says.

 

 

Verizon stores struck by HTC Thunderbolt Wireless Charging Battery Cover

Solid as HTC's Thunderbolt may be from a software perspective, its battery life has proven to be less than striking -- unless you've been rocking it with that ultra-chunky extended battery. In comparison, its streamlined and Qi-certified battery cover was slated as another option, but there's been nary a mention of it since that accidental tease on Verizon's website in April. According to Droid Life, it's actually now available from Verizon retail locations for about $30 to complement the $70 charging base -- great for users who: a. hold disdain for cables, b. don't mind a few extra charges, or c. wear skinny jeans. There's no mention of when we'll see the hopefully convenient accessory pop up on Verizon's website, but at least it's out there somewhere for those willing to look.

New Gaming Notebook by Asus

Asus has added another gaming notebook to its range with the release of the Asus ROG G74SX notebook, and it comes with the latest Intel Sandy Bridge quad Core i7 2630QM processor, plus a massive 12GB of DDR3 RAM and 1.5TB of storage.

On top of that the Asus ROG G74SX features a 17.3 inch Full HD display with a resoltion of 1920 x 1080, graphics are provided by an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560M 3GB GDDR5 graphics card.Other specifications incluse USB 3.0, a Blu-ray player, an 8 in 1 card reader, a 2 megapixel web camera, 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, plus Bluetooh 2.1+EDR, there is also three USB 2.0 ports, one USB 3.0, plus HDMI, prices start at around $1,745.

Verizon Palm Pre 2 gets its webOS 2.1 wings

Good news for Palm Pre 2 owners of the Big Red variety, the endless breath-holding can finally stop -- webOS 2.1 is finally making its way to your handset. Released back in March to the global unlocked masses, this update to HP's platform brings along voice-dialing, email and security fixes, messaging backup (sorry, no MMS), and a Sense 3.0-like charging display that'll float your photos, agenda, or simply keep the time. That should be enough to tide you over until the Pre 3 hits VZW's stores, no? Die-hard Palm OS fanatics, chin up, your Classic emulator's now only ten steps away.

ARCHOS Now Brings Android Home with the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone and ARCHOS 35 Home

ARCHOS, ARCHOS 35 Home Connect, Android web radio, ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone, Android DECT phone

ARCHOS today make push to the technological boundaries and innovation with two new Android devices designed for the home – The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect, an Android-based web radio and the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone, an Android DECT phone. Both are smart devices and feature all of the Android functionalities. 

The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect is the perfect music box and the best portable Android device for streaming radio and music anywhere at home such as the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom or kids room. Small, compact and easy to carry, ARCHOS 35 Home connect features WiFi and amazing sound quality becoming a part of your daily life.

 

The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone will make owning a home phone popular again. It brings Smartphone functionality into your home and gives you access to thousands of applications such as weather, news, games and traffic.

 

Both cutting-edge ARCHOS Android-based home devices, thanks to the front facing webcams, bring new usages such as video calling, baby monitoring and even room surveillance.

 

ARCHOS 35 Home Connect, the most-advanced Android-based web radio

 

The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect is light, has an extra-long battery-life and fits perfectly in your hand. With two high-definition speakers specifically designed for improved bass, users will be amazed by the sound quality produced by such a small device.

 

With just a click on the touch-screen, users will be able to stream over 50,000 web radio stations or music using the pre-loaded TuneIn application.

 

The ARCHOS alarm clock application brings users weather, traffic and news from the moment they wake up and features multiple alarms. Users will also have access to thousand applications such as games for children.

 

With a video calling application, users will be able to video chat to stay in touch with family and friends. Additionally, the front facing webcam allows for baby monitoring and even room surveillance.

 

ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone, the ultimate Android-based DECT phone

 

The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone combines the best of a DECT phone and a Smartphone for your home. Compatible with any ADSL box or phone line and using standard DECT protocols the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone is a light and stylish home phone that brings users contact sharing with their Android smart phone, MP3 ringtones, caller photo display as well as access to thousands of Android apps, web surfing, emails and video calling.

 

With its sleek and stylish design the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone is finally a home phone that users will be proud to leave on their coffee table. Its charging dock is separate from its wireless receiver so there’s no need for a huge dock right next to the phone line.

 

The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone gives you access no other home phone can – whether you want to quickly check your email without turning on the PC, find that definition in Wikipedia or play a game while waiting for your call, the ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone can do it.

 

Thanks to the video calling application, users are able to call from and to a PC or Android mobile phone. Two other usages with the built in front facing webcam are baby monitoring and video surveillance capabilities.

Price and Availability

 

The ARCHOS 35 Home Connect is expected to be available in September 2011 at the RRP of $149.

 

The ARCHOS 35 Smart Home Phone is expected to be available in September 2011 at the RRP of $159.

 

Both devices will be available at the end of September and will be shown beginning of September at IFA.

 

ARCHOS Unveils Fastest Tablets with G9 Tablet Range

ARCHOS Tablet, OMAP 4 processor, ARCHOS G9 Tablet, ARCHOS 80 G9, ARCHOS 101 G9, Android 3.1, Honeycomb, ARCHOS 3G USB Stick

Today ARCHOS introduces an unrivaled combination of speed and storage with its latest tablets featuring an OMAP 4 processor with an ARM Cortex dual-core A9 running at 1.5 GHz and Seagate’s 250GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD) capacity. 

The 8” ARCHOS 80 G9 and 10” ARCHOS 101 G9 are powered by Android 3.1 “Honeycomb,’’ the latest Android version. ARCHOS G9 tablets come with Google’s full suite of mobile applications and Android Market, giving users access to over 200,000 applications such as games, books, social media and news. With the latest version of Honeycomb, G9 tablets also offer a full web experience complete with Adobe Flash support for on-the-go web browsing, communication and applications.

 

Additionally, the G9 tablets feature a unique 3G ready solution where customers no longer need to choose between WiFi and 3G models at purchase. ARCHOS 3G Stick is a standard 3G stick for laptops which has been designed to be compatible with all ARCHOS G9 tablets. All G9 tablets come with a concealed USB port on the back of the device that when paired with the ARCHOS 3G USB Stick will enable 3G connectivity.

 

The G9 tablet range continues to push technological boundaries and features the following innovations.

 

Fastest Tablet Experience Ever

 

ARCHOS have decided to push their G9 tablets even further by loading them out with a 1.5 GHz dual-core OMAP 4 processor from Texas Instruments. With 50% more raw computational power, ARCHOS G9 tablets have the power needed for a great Android experience.

 

For example, with the 1.5 GHz OMAP 4 processor the ARCHOS G9 tablet enhance a user’s web browsing experience with page load time reduced by up to 50% over tablets running the Nvidia Tegra 2 processor at 1 GHz.

All your HD multimedia in your hands or on TV

 

With the best multimedia experience, ARCHOS G9 tablets are the only tablets able to decode 1080p H264 High Profile videos whilst current standard tablets are not even able to play 720p H264 High Profile smoothly.

 

ARCHOS have replaced the standard multimedia apps with ARCHOS boosted apps for video and music to give to users more format compatibility and a unique user interface.

 

With film and TV series metadata automatically downloaded, even video files are automatically organized by title, actor, director, year, season and episode, ARCHOS have redefined the tablet device category by providing consumers more ways to experience HD entertainment.

 

ARCHOS G9 tablets also feature an HDMI output, giving users full access to their Android experience on TV including movies in 1080p resolution.

 

WiFi or 3G, no need to choose, it’s up to you whenever you want

 

This patented solution lets the consumer add a standard PC 3G stick to his tablet whenever and wherever. The ARCHOS G9 3G Stick has been specially designed to fit perfectly into the back of any G9 tablet. Just remove the cover and slide in the ARCHOS G9 3G Stick to unleash the full portability of your ARCHOS G9 tablet.

 

With this innovative USB 3G stick, consumers will no longer have to choose between a WiFi and a 3G tablet at purchase. For just a $49 upgrade, the users can purchase the ARCHOS G9 3G Stick and start enjoying 3G connectivity on his ARCHOS tablet or PCs compared to other tablets where 3G modules add over $100 to the cost and there’s no option to add it later.

 

This cutting-edge 3G stick offers one 3G solution for both a tablet and a laptop and uses just one data plan1. Offered as a Pay-As-You-Go Plan, there is no subscription required and the consumer need only pay for what they need when they need it.

Top performance, best value

 

While the competitors’ tablets are priced starting at $499, ARCHOS is offering an 8’’ tablet starting at $279 and 10.1’’ tablet starting $349.

 

ARCHOS is offering cutting-edge performance such as a more powerful and faster processor, unique 3G solution, enhanced multimedia experience and more storage capacity with the built-in 250GB HDD from Seagate.

 

ARCHOS are the first in the industry to offer a tablet with a hard drive, bringing 8 times more storage at the same cost of a standard 32GB tablet.

 

ARCHOS are also the first to offer such high performance at such affordable price, making ARCHOS G9 tablets the best cost-performance value.

 

The ARCHOS 80 G9 and ARCHOS 101 G9 will be available at the end of September and will be shown beginning of September at IFA.

 

Two tablets to fit your lifestyle: ARCHOS 80 G9 and ARCHOS 101 G9

 

The ARCHOS 80 G9 is the portable tablet with perfect size for web browsing, ebook and newspaper reading with its 8” 4:3 screen and a resolution of 1024 x 768.

 

The ARCHOS 101 G9 is the perfect entertainment tablet to share the Android Honeycomb experience. With 250GB of storage space, users will be able to carry over 50 hours of full 1080p HD to watch on their 10.1” wide 1280 x 800 16:10 screen.

 

 

AT&T Motorola Bravo Gains Sideloading Via Official App

Motorola has published a new app to the Android Market which allows the Motorola Bravo to sideload third-party apps from other app stores and independent developers that publish outside of the official Android Market. This follows updates for other AT&T Android smartphones that enabled app sideloading earlier this year. The one-click sideloading app is available for the Motorola Bravo and was developed by Motorola with more phones to be included in the future.

Automated Calls Launches, Makes Mass Messaging Easy

Automated Calls, Mass Messaging, Easy Messaging

Automated Calls plans to bring its mass notification system to everyone with its official launch. Mass notifications, which have generally only been used by large organizations with lots of equipment and hardware to purchase, can now be done right from any web browser with the click of a mouse. Religious groups, sports leagues, party planners, political campaigns and stay at home moms are just a small portion of whom the service would benefit.

Automated Calls has an endless amount of possibilities and uses when it comes to our target audiences. Planning to run for an upcoming election and want to reach your supporters? Want to send out a voice message to your congregation for prayer requests? Have to notify your sports league of game cancellations / upcoming events? Planning a party to celebrate the beginning of summer? AutomatedCalls.com is the service for you and you can try it out absolutely free of charge.

 

The “Free” service option is great for small groups and individuals, allowing 1 call to 25 numbers at absolutely no cost. It’s also a great way to test the system for first time users; beyond that it’s only a few cents to send out messages.

 

Daisy Group targeting 700 new staff with office opening

Acquisitive reseller sets immediate target of recruiting 100 staff in the next six months as work on new premises nears completion

Daisy Group is to expand its Nelson base in Lancashire with the opening of a new premises, making room for 700 new jobs.

Redevelopment work is nearing completion on the former Rostron’s building, adjacent to Daisy’s current premises on Lomeshaye Industrial Estate. The company will look to ramp up its recruitment drive with 100 jobs earmarked for within the next six months.

The Group currently houses more than 400 employees at its head office in Nelson and said with the recent move of 90 people from the 27.3 million acquisition of service provider SpiriTel in Wigan last November, the current premises are full to capacity.

As it starts to fill the new roles that have been created, the company is hosting a recruitment day at its headquarters in Lindred Road in Nelson on July 14.

Daisy Group COO Gareth Kirkwood (pictured) said: “The fact that our headquarters in Nelson are now full to capacity demonstrates the level of growth the company has achieved since we moved to Daisy House with less than 100 staff in 2005.

“While many businesses are currently feeling economic strain, Daisy is going from strength to strength and is looking forward to investing more time and money into growing the business even further in terms of both staff and customers. In order to accommodate this growth we recognise the importance of investing in our systems and facilities.”

 

Nokia's Android flirtations revealed

We don't know if this device is "super confidential" or not, but we've just come across yet another Nokia N9 lookalike with a non-MeeGo operating system on board. Well, it looks that way, anyhow. There's no way to verify that the Android homescreen we see above is a legitimate Gingerbread installation and not a mere screenshot (the resolution looks all wrong, for one thing), but the source of this image is the same Chinese fellow that posted a picture of Nokia's Windows Phone prototype, the Sea Ray, way back in May, so we're inclined to believe he's got an inside line on these things. Additionally, the undersized Android UI elements on the screen actually encourage us to believe that this is indeed a Nokia testing device -- if we were going to fake something like this, we'd use a regular screen grab for our tomfoolery -- and Stephen Elop has openly admitted that Nokia spent a couple of wild seconds contemplating a switch to Android. Well, folks, here's what that alternate future might have looked like.

Sprint's HTC EVO 3D and HTC EVO View 4G Available Today

Two of the most highly anticipated wireless devices of 2011, HTC EVOc 3D and HTC EVO View 4G, debut today, exclusively from Sprint.

HTC EVO 3D, America’s first glasses-free 3D phone will cost $199.99 and HTC EVO View 4G, the first 4G-enabled tablet in the United States, will cost $399.99. Both prices exclude applicable taxes, and the devices require a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade.

Sprint Stores nationwide will open at 8 a.m. local time. HTC EVO 3D and HTC EVO View 4G will also be available through Sprint Business Direct Sales, www.sprint.com and Telesales (1-800-SPRINT1), as well as RadioShack and Best Buy stores.

Lustancia's TapNav app takes your iPhone for an AR-assisted spin

For better or worse, it seems that GPS services are rapidly approaching their mid-life crisis. After rampaging through a host of makeovers (see more: here and here) that would make even the most ADD-popstar dizzy, the phoenix of the navigation industry is now trying its hand at a new augmented mobile reality. Sitting pretty at $2.99 in the App Store, Lustancia's TapNav app swaps the virtual maps for a real-time AR overlay via your iPhone's camera. It's not a killer feature by any means, but if you've ever found yourself wondering just which turn your PND is indicating, then this is for you. Sexy robot-voice assistance and routing stay free, but you'll have to pony up for that turn-by-turn navigation after the sixty day paid trial. Astonishingly brief press release after the break.

Show full PR text

June 23, 2011 02:27 PM Eastern Daylight Time
TapNav World's First Vision Based AR Navigation from Lustancia

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lustancia is excited to announce the release of TapNav, the world's first vision based Augmented Reality GPS Navigation. The application can be downloaded from the apple appstore in US, Germany, France, and Spain.

TapNav is a GPS navigation application for the iphone to assist drivers. TapNav is powered by the most advanced techologies in computer vision which allows the camera of the iphone to detect lanes at 29 frames per second. 'Computer vision' and 'lane detection' are the keys to providing an intuitive and precise driving directions to the user.

TapNav provides turn by turn navigation and voice assistance that aids the AR based experience. The price is $2.99 for 60 days usage of the full app with monthly subscription after the 60 days expire. Routing with the application will stay free.

mSonar, the development studio within Lustancia LTD, plans to continuously update TapNav with a vision of becoming a full-package driving assistant application to help people get to their destinations safer and faster.

Learn more about TapNav on the iTunes App Store here: http://goo.gl/c7jDC
Read more about TapNav online here: www.msonar.com

Mobile voice calls go HD over largest HD Voice network in the world on the Next G network

HD Mobile voice call, HD Voice, Next G network, High Definition Voice calling, Telstra HD Voice Call

Telstra has unveiled the mobile phone equivalent of switching from Standard Definition to High Definition Television with the launch of High Definition Voice calling across its entire Next G mobile network. The first major advance in mobile voice quality in 20 years, HD Voice delivers crystal clear voice quality and suppresses background noise on calls made between compatible phones on the Next G mobile network. 

Customers calling between HD-compatible phones can access the higher quality calls at no extra cost.

 

Mike Wright, Executive Director, Telstra Networks & Access Technologies said “The difference between a standard and HD call is the voice equivalent of comparing a VHS with a blue-ray DVD, HD Voice calling sounds like you’re talking face to face, even if you are hundreds or thousands of kilometres apart.”

 

“Twenty years ago we couldn’t have dreamt mobile phones would become indispensable work and lifestyle tools. Handsets have improved dramatically over this time, but the quality of mobile phone calls hasn’t changed much since the 1990’s,” Mr Wright said.

 

“In addition to the clarity of the calls, the noise suppression features make your HD-compatible handset much more effective in noisy environments such as on the train, in crowded places or in heavy traffic.

 

“We are delighted that we have rolled this new technology out across our entire Next G mobile network footprint. This means that not only do Telstra mobile customers have access to the largest and fastest national mobile network, they also have access to the latest voice technology across the largest HD enabled network coverage footprint in the world. Telstra is proud that we continue to provide leading edge services for our customers built upon our world leading, IP based network that we have built in conjunction with our vendor partner Ericsson,” said Mr Wright.

 

HD Voice is made possible using state of the art technology known as Wideband Adaptive Multi-Rate coding (WB-AMR).  The wider dynamic range means over twice the range of voice frequencies are transmitted allowing customers to hear the full range of a person’s voice and makes it much clearer to distinguish between similar sounds like ‘S’ and ‘F’.

 

“HD-voice calls will require the caller and receiver to be using compatible handsets on the Telstra Next G mobile network for the full benefits of the technology. We expect our customers will really value HD Voice as another distinguishing feature of the Next G mobile network,” said Mr Wright.

 

HD Voice uses the WB-AMR (Wideband Adaptive Multi-Rate) speech codec where as the existing network uses NB-AMR (Narrowband AMR or commonly called AMR).

 

WB-AMR uses the same network capacity to double the voice bandwidth (50 – 7000 Hz) compared to traditional mobile and fixed network calls which have only ever carried the lower range of voice frequencies (300 – 3400 Hz).

 

The Nokia 6720, E52, E72 and N8-00 and HTC Desire S all support HD Voice today.

 

The Sony Ericsson Neo-Xperia will be launched next month with HD Voice and Telstra expects a large percentage of new devices to be launch with HD Voice support in the coming year.

 

For customers with compatible handsets there is no additional cost for HD Voice on the Telstra Next G network, it is a value add for these customers. Just as Next G customers can enjoy Australia’s largest and fastest mobile network they can now take advantage of this new capability.

 

Congresswoman Proposes Bill To Cut Down FauxG Claims: An In-Depth Look

Whose 4G is fastest? If someone asked me, I’d probably say Verizon, but then again, is Verizon’s 4G LTE network really 4G? According to the International Telecommunications Union, it’s not. While both Verizon’s 4G LTE network and Sprint’s WiMax networks are considered forerunners to true 4G technologies, neither network meets the ITU’s required download speeds of 100Mbps delivered across true 4G technology. Meanwhile, AT&T and T-Mobile are calling their HSPA+ network 4G, confusing a lot of consumers who just want faster data, and to understand what it is they’re paying for.

The good news is U.S. Representative Anna Eshoo of California is here to help, introducing a bill called the “Next Generation Wireless Disclosure Act,” which will force carriers to tell customers (before purchasing anything) the minimum data speeds of the supposed 4G network, network reliability, and coverage of their marketed 4G service. “Consumers deserve to know exactly what they’re getting for their money when they sign-up for a 4G data plan,” the Congresswoman said in a statement. “My legislation is simple–it will establish guidelines for understanding what 4G speed really is, and ensure that consumers have all the information they need to make an informed decision.” We touched on this a bit as the news broke, but until the bill passes and carriers are actually required to spill the beans, it’s only fair to make sure our readers know what’s up when it comes to 4G.

Of course, no one hates this proposed bill more than the wireless industry, which has gotten away with marketing technology that consumers don’t understand, and potentially taking advantage of it. “We are concerned that the bill proposes to add a new layer of regulation to a new and exciting set of services, while ignoring the fact that wireless is an inherently complex and dynamic environment in which network speeds can vary depending on a wide variety of factors,” Jot Carpenter, vice president of government affairs for CTIA said in a statement.

In truth, Carpenter is right. There are a number of different factors that come into play when the average smartphone user starts surfing the web. For one, we share our wireless network. When more of us are downloading apps and checking Facebook, then there’s simply less 4G or 3G to go around, and we all see slower speeds. Secondly, distance does not make the wireless grow stronger. The closer you are to a cell site, the faster your connection will be.

In other words, you might not be getting what you think you’re paying for, namely 4G speeds. Sprint reports average download speeds of 3Mbps to 6Mbps. Verizon’s LTE is said to offer between 6Mbps and 12Mbps average download speeds. T-Mobile promises its HSPA+ network provides average download speeds between 3Mbps and 7Mbps. AT&T refuses to disclose average speeds for both its 3G and 4G services. The average download speeds over a 3G connection range between 500Kbps and 1.9Mbps, so these carriers are still serving up a speedier connection than before. But remember, the ITU requires speeds of 100Mbps to call a network 4G.

What’s interesting is that almost every press release I get from T-Mobile leads off with its network’s theoretical download speeds, which in this case is 21Mbps. This is not a lie. In a lab, on an empty network, T-Mobile’s technology can totally reach download speeds of 21Mbps. In the real world, however, speeds are closer to 3Mbps to 7Mbps, as disclosed above. (I am not singling out T-Mo, other carriers do this too. I’m just using good ol’ pinky as an example.)

The point is, carriers are working hard to make 4G seem like the answer to all our slow-loading woes, and it may very well be a huge step in that direction. But that means it’s on us to be diligent when we shop around among the carriers, and make sure we know exactly what it is we’re paying for. At least until Representative Eshoo’s bill gets passed. “This legislation will empower consumers to make more informed decisions on their choice of wireless service,” Gigi Sohn, president of Public Knowledge said in a statement. “This increased transparency within the mobile space will enable consumers to better understand a product before committing to a lengthy contract with a particular provider.”

[via CNET]

Hulu Plus Now Available For (A Few) Android Handsets

Tired of not being able to get your on-the-go Modern Family fix from Hulu just because you’re rockin’ an Android phone rather than an iPhone?

Fret no longer! Hulu Plus for Android has arrived. Sort of.

As is par for the course with video streaming apps on Android these days, Hulu Plus for Android is starting its life on… a very select bunch of handsets. Of the many dozens of Android devices floating around out there, Hulu Plus will initially support six: Nexus One, Nexus S, HTC Inspire 4G, Motorola Droid II, Motorola Droid X, and the Motorola Atrix.

Hulu says that “additional devices will be announced throughout the year” — but unless you’re sporting one of the more popular US handsets (like, say, the EVO 4G or the Droid Charge), I wouldn’t get my hopes up.

Judge Hasn’t Seen “Evidence Of Confusion” In Amazon-Apple “App Store” Suit

Remember that whole trademark tiff between Apple and Amazon over the generic or non-generic term “app store?” Despite going quiet for the past month, the case is certainly not over, although statements made by U.S. District Judge Phyllis Hamilton suggest that Apple may be losing steam in its fight.

She referred to Apple’s proof as a “stumbling block” when the company argued that the stores’ similar names – Apple App Store and Amazon Appstore for Android – could cause confusion among consumers. Judge Hamilton also indicated that she would “probably” reject Apple’s motion for a preliminary injunction against Amazon’s use of the term “app store.”

Though Apple didn’t receive approval to coin the term “app store” until 2 years after its 2008 filing, the conflict didn’t start until the Microsoft got involved, arguing that the term was just as generic as “shoe store” or “toy store.” Microsoft’s insistence did little to stop Apple, and in March, the company proved just how serious it is about keeping “app store” all to itself by suing Amazon when the Appstore for Android launched.

Apple argued that none of its other competitors such as Google and Microsoft were using the term “app store,” but rather found new ways to describe their software offerings, like Windows Marketplace or Android Market. Since the term isn’t used commonly by similar companies, Apple maintains that Amazon’s use of “app store” is infringing on its trademark.

Today, Judge Hamilton seem less than impressed with Apple’s showing, saying she has yet to see any “real evidence of actual confusion.” Without said evidence, she has no choice but to rule against Apple’s motion. “I’m troubled by the showing that you’ve made so far, but that’s where you’re likely not to prevail at this early junction.”

[via Ars Technica]

LG THRILL 4G Arriving in AT&T Stores this Summer

The ideal handset for on-the-move entertainment enthusiasts, LG THRILL 4G is the ultimate on-the-go superphone. Gamers will love it for the 3D games. Amateur cameramen will love the ability to create and share in 3D video. And, any customer looking for one of the most powerful and capable smartphones on the market will be delighted by the LG THRILL 4G.

Key Facts

LG THRILL 4G to arrive in AT&T company-owned stores and online this summer with a leading suite of 3D content preloaded on the dual-core, dual-channel, dual memory Android 2.2 superphone.

Glasses-free, 4.3-inch, 3D display provides access to portfolio of 3D content including preloaded 3D games, the Gameloft 3D Store, preloaded YouTube 3D, access to 3D movies from mSpot® and more. 

MediaPad 7 Inch Android Honeycomb Tablet by Huawei

Huawei has been teasing their new Android tablet over the last few weeks, first we saw some teaser photos of the new Huawei MediaPad and then a video, and now Huawei has made the MediaPad official.

The Huawei MediaPad features a 7 inch IPS touchscreen display, and it will come with Android Honeycomb 3.2, which is basically the same as Android 3.1 except it has been designed to work with 7 inch displays, there is also a dual core 1.2 GHz Qualcomm processor.

Other specifications on the Huawei MediaPad include a 1.3 megapixel camera on the front for video chat an a 5 megapixel camera on the back for video and photos.The Huawei MediaPad supports full HD video playback in 1080p, there is also HSPA and WiFi connectivity and it will go on sale in quarter 3 of 2011, there are no details on pricing as yet.

Hulu Plus for Android is available now... for six devices

The good news is that Hulu Plus for Android is on the market, but the bad news is that you may not be able to install it yet. The official Hulu Blog has just been updated with news that six phones -- Nexus One, Nexus S, HTC Inspire 4G, Motorola Droid II, Motorola Droid X, and the Motorola Atrix -- are on the compatible list with "additional device announcements" due later in the year. While there's some crossover with the list of Netflix-compatible devices, it's hardly complete and many flagship phones are still missing. Here's hoping the tweakers can work their magic on that apk and get it running for the rest of us, whether we're shelling out $7.99 a month or just want to leech some Chappelle's Show eps on a free one week trial. If you can't get it running yourself, check out a quick video demo embedded after the break.

[Thanks, Tyler, Isaac]

NetSecure Kudos Payments announced for Canada, is the half-circle to Square

Canada may be moving to polymer-based currency, but mobile payment services like Square -- which cater to classic plastic -- haven't yet taken time to trek to the Great White North. NetSecure is looking to offer similar convenience to the region with its new Kudos Payments service, which just so happens to ship with a shockingly curvy swiping dongle. Similar to Square, it creates a secure 'point of sale' without a hard-wired transaction terminal, and charges a slightly higher 2.9-percent fee to users' accounts for each exchange. Kudos has iOS, Android, and Blackberry apps to tap into the functionality and, even a version for Mac and PC -- in other words, you and yours should be suitably covered. Any roving entrepreneurs who are interested in the service will be able to snag the $49.99 kit free of charge from the company's website for a "limited time," which may or may not expire before Google decides to open its own Wallet a few miles kilometers north.

Show full PR text

June 21, 2011 02:51 PM Eastern Daylight Time

NetSecure Technologies Introduces Kudos Credit Card Acceptance Solution in Canada

Kudos Provides a Turnkey "Point of Sale in a Box" Solution for the First Time Ever in Canada, Giving Micro-Businesses a Flexible, Affordable and Secure Way to Accept Credit Card Payments Through a Smartphone, Desktop or Laptop

REGINA, Saskatchewan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NetSecure Technologies, leading developer of products and security solutions for the eCommerce industry, launched the first mobile payment solution of its kind in Canada – Kudos – a service allowing small business owners to start accepting credit card payments on-the-spot via swipe terminals compatible with desktops, laptops and smartphones (iOS, Android and RIM platforms).

"Smaller businesses that do not offer a credit card payment option are at a competitive disadvantage. NetSecure designed Kudos to take the pain out of payment acceptance for the Canadian business owner and their customers."

Cash-strapped small businesses typically cannot afford payment processing services designed for larger merchants. Canada has approximately 2.5 million micro-businesses that do not accept credit/debit card payments. Costly capital outlays upfront, monthly fees, hidden fees and complex contracts all serve as deterrents.

"Terminals and merchant accounts are expensive," said Daniel McCann, president and founder of NetSecure Technologies. "The whole process is intimidating to small merchants. Is the musician selling his CD's after the show really expected to shell out hundreds of dollars for a terminal? We have an opportunity to allow small businesses to accept credit cards using what they already have today – their phones and laptops."

Mobile payments have proven extremely successful in the United States, dominated by a startup called Square that provides a free service for credit card acceptance, charging users a flat rate for all transactions. This service has already been adopted by hundreds of thousands of small merchants. Unfortunately for Canadians, Square is only available in the United States, leaving a vacuum for credit card acceptance for small businesses in Canada.

"Up until now, the Canadian market's mobile payment arena has been virtually non-existent," says McCann. "Through the introduction of Kudos, NetSecure is bringing Square-style payments to Canada for the very first time, making it affordable and convenient for small business owners to start accepting card payments and growing their business."

The Kudos credit card acceptance kit serves as a complete 'point of sale in a box' solution for small business owners. Equipped with a swipe terminal, POS software and a merchant account, users can begin accepting credit card payments through their smartphones or laptops for a flat rate of 2.9 percent per transaction, with no monthly or ongoing fees.

Kudos' key advantages include no limitations on the amount of transactions and the added benefit of compatibility with RIM platforms, such as Blackberry. Kudos also implements full end-to-end encryption, ensuring security for sensitive data.

"The merchant never needs to see their customers' credit card numbers, so PCI compliance becomes much easier," says McCann.

By eliminating lost payments, bounced checks and unnecessary trips to the bank, Kudos helps to improve accounts receivables for small business owners, thereby increasing sales and expanding their customer base.

Kudos is an ideal solution for small business owners and independent professionals, including contractors, consultants, day care providers, repair services, massage therapists, personal trainers, photographers, service employees, tradeshows and events, landscapers, plumbers and more.

"Over half of all transactions today are plastic, and customers are demanding greater flexibility from their vendors," said McCann. "Smaller businesses that do not offer a credit card payment option are at a competitive disadvantage. NetSecure designed Kudos to take the pain out of payment acceptance for the Canadian business owner and their customers."

Kudos, available for $49.99 at www.KudosPayments.com, is currently available for free as part of a limited time offer, while supplies last.

About NetSecure

Founded in 2005, NetSecure Technologies Ltd. is a technology company focused on developing breakthrough security solutions for online transactions. The company's products, SmartSwipe and Kudos, are designed to prevent interception of information at the most vulnerable point in the transaction: the point of origin. Integrated with NetSecure's security patents, the company's products are unique in the industry, taking the pain out of payment acceptance for businesses of all sizes.

Congress Considers Bill Requiring Carriers To Explain Their Definition Of “4G”

All 4G is not created equal.

You see, each carrier seems to be defining 4G as they see fit. Verizon’s got their new LTE network. Sprint’s got WiMax. AT&T and T-Mobile have upgraded their 3G networks to a faster (but still technically 3G) technology called HSPA+. Each carrier’s network has widely varied speed capabilities, and are at different points in their nationwide coverage rollout — and yet, all of them are wrapped up in the little marketing buzzword-burrito that is “4G”. Confused yet? Making things worse, none of these networks are actually 4G — at least, not as 4G was defined by the International Communication Union last year.

Looking to clear up this mess a bit, Democratic Rep. of California Anna Eshoo has proposed a bill requiring carriers to clarify whatever the hell it is they mean when they say “4G” by providing speed details, coverage maps, pricing, and layman explanations of the technology in place. Taking it one step further, the bill would also require carriers to provide consumers with side-by-side comparisons of their “4G” tech versus that of the other players.