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Panasonic Unveils T31 a Budget Android Smartphone Priced at 7990 INR

Panasonic has launched a new budget Android smartphone in India, the T31 is priced at 7,990 INR. The device runs on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean and come in the budget phone category.

The Panasonic T31 sports a 4 inch WVGA display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels and is powered by 1.3 GHz dual core processor along with 512 MB of RAM and 4 GB of inbuilt storage which is expandable upto 32 GB. The device features a 3.2 MP rear camera, and also has a VGA front-facing camera. It is a dual-SIM smartphone with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, EDGE, GPRS and 3G. T31 also packs a 1300 mAh battery.

The smartphone measures 122 x 64.4 x 11.95 mm and weighs 120 grams. The Panasonic T31 runs Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean and is available in Bluish Black and Pure White colour variants.

October 16, 2013
Firmware Update for Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z Ultra, Improved Camera and Battery Life

Sony has announced a firmware update for its two major phones, the flagship Xperia Z1 and the Giant Xperia Z Ultra.

The company notes in a blog post, “After these products started hitting markets, we listened closely to feedback and looked at how we could refine the build quality. As you know, we’re keen to ensure that all our software is as good as it can possibly be, so we’ve addressed & improved on a few things…”

Sony has also released changelog for the update that reveals the Xperia Z1 will be getting an improved camera algorithm for better performance and refined Sony’s Smart Social Camera platform that the company hopes to improve performance of Xperia Camera apps. Whereas, the Sony Xperia Z Ultra gets improved optimized touchscreen sensitivity that would work with finger gestures, writing or sketching with pencils, metal pens and even selected styluses.

Both the Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z Ultra will be getting some common changes, including a re-calibrated display to enhance viewing experiences; economised power consumption for longer battery life, and streamlined Exchange connection for faster email sync, display and download. The update will roll out soon with time.

[via]

October 16, 2013
Sony Unveils Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras Alpha 7 and 7R

The much awaited cameras from Sony are now official, Sony’s new a7 and a7R digital cameras are full-frame interchangeable lens models.The company claims that these two cameras are the smallest full frame mirrorless cameras in the world and offer an unmatched combination of creativity, customizability and portability.

a7R Camera:

The camera has a 36.4 effective megapixel full frame sensor and no optical low pass filter, ensuring that the extraordinary resolving power is fully realized and resulting in an unprecedented level of detail and clarity in images. The camera features a new AF technology that delivers blazingly quick, accurate autofocus. Additionally, there are a total of three selectable sizes for the Flexible Spot AF frame, minimizing the risk of accidentally focusing on the wrong target.

a7 Camera:

The a7 camera features an advanced 24.3 effective megapixel full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor paired with the powerful new BIONZ X processor. This new camera has a Fast Hybrid AF system that combines phase- and contrast-detect AF methods to ensure speedy, accurate autofocus. It can also shoot at up to 5 fps continuously with non-stop AF tracking, allowing it to keep pace with fast- moving athletes, wildlife.

With these new a7 camera systems, Sony has completely redefined the look and feel of a professional-grade digital camera,” said Mike Kahn, director of the interchangeable lens camera business at Sony Electronics. “The a7 and a7R cameras are significantly smaller, lighter and more portable than any other full-frame interchange lens camera yet deliver image quality, power and performance that professionals and enthusiasts crave.”Both cameras feature full customization and control to meet the needs of the most demanding photographers. There are 9 different customizable buttons and 46 assignable functions that can be adjusted based on shooting preferences, including fully customizable front and back dials, a rear control wheel and an exposure compensation dial. Users can preview all changes to photographic settings in real-time on the high-contrast, 2.4 million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder or the high-resolution tiltable 3” LCD screen.

The a7R model features a 36.4 megapixel 35mm Exmor CMOS sensor – the highest resolution sensor in the history of Sony’s ‘a’ line – with no optical low pass filter for added resolving power and increased image detail. The a7 model boasts a 24.3 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor CMOS sensor and a Hybrid AF system.

Both cameras are equipped with advanced imaging features including a new BIONZ X processor; fast AF capabilities; a clear, bright XGA OLED Tru-finder, full HD 60p video recording, Wi-Fi and NFC connection, dust-and moisture- resistance and more.

The company claims that clear Image Zoom has been enhanced for video recording as well, allowing for close-up shots without sacrificing the pixel count. Other pro-style movie features include an audio recording level control and display plus a “live” HDMI® output for passing through video to an external monitor or recording device.

The new cameras both have on-board Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities for instant image sharing and transfer to compatible smartphones and tablets. The a7R and a7 models can access Sony’s platform of PlayMemoriesTM Camera Apps, allowing users to add new effects, filters, utilities and more. This platform includes new ‘Multiple Exposure’ app, which automatically combines sequential exposures into one creative shot, and ‘Smart Remote Control’4, which allows for direct control of exposure and shutter speed from a connected smartphone and is particularly useful for self-portraits or group shots.

The Sony a7R and a7 full-frame interchangeable lens cameras will be available for purchase this December. The a7R camera will be offered as a body-only for about $2300. The Sony a7 compact system camera will be offered with a 28-70mm F3.5 – F5.6 full- frame lens (model SEL2870) for about $2000. It will also be offered as a body-only for about $1700.

[youtube id=”Pkp6dNHDdDM” width=”100%” height=”300px”]

[toggle title=”Press Release “]Sony Unveils World’s First Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

New Sony Alpha 7 Series Are World’s Smallest, Lightest Full-Frame Interchangeable Lens Cameras

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 15, 2013 – Sony’s new ?7 and ?7R digital cameras are the world’s smallest full-frame interchangeable lens models2. Highly anticipated by professional photographers and imaging enthusiasts alike, the two new cameras offer an unmatched combination of creativity, customizability and portability.

The ?7R model features a 36.4 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor – the highest resolution sensor in the history of Sony’s ? line – with no optical low pass filter for added resolving power and increased image detail. The ?7 model boasts an impressive 24.3 effective megapixel 35mm Exmor® CMOS sensor and an innovative fast Hybrid AF system.

Each camera is equipped with advanced imaging features including a powerful new BIONZ® X processor; fast AF capabilities; a clear, bright XGA OLED Tru-finder, full HD 60p video recording, Wi-Fi® and NFC connection, dust-and moisture- resistance and more.

“With these new ?7 camera systems, Sony has completely redefined the look and feel of a professional-grade digital camera,” said Mike Kahn, director of the interchangeable lens camera business at Sony Electronics. “The ?7 and ?7R cameras are significantly smaller, lighter and more portable than any other full-frame interchange lens camera yet deliver image quality, power and performance that professionals and enthusiasts crave.”Both cameras feature full customization and control to meet the needs of the most demanding photographers. There are 9 different customizable buttons and 46 assignable functions that can be adjusted based on shooting preferences, including fully customizable front and back dials, a rear control wheel and an exposure compensation dial. Users can preview all changes to photographic settings in real-time on the high-contrast, 2.4 million dot XGA OLED Tru-Finder or the high-resolution tiltable 3” LCD screen.

The new cameras share a powerful new BIONZ X processor that accurately reproduces details in textures in real-time via extra high-speed processing capabilities, and allows for exceptional low noise performance in all types of lighting conditions.

Additionally, the powerful processor combined with the advanced, high resolution sensors allow both cameras to shoot pro-quality Full HD video (AVCHD progressive, 1920x1080p @ 60p) with richly detailed colors and ultra-low noise.

Clear Image Zoom has been enhanced for video recording as well, allowing for powerful close-up shots without sacrificing pixel count. Other pro-style movie features include an audio recording level control and display plus a “live” HDMI® output for passing through video to an external monitor or recording device.

The new cameras both have on-board Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities for instant image sharing and transfer to compatible smartphones and tablets. The ?7R and ?7 models can access Sony’s platform of PlayMemoriesTM Camera Apps, allowing users to add new effects, filters, utilities and more. This platform includes new ‘Multiple Exposure’ app, which automatically combines sequential exposures into one creative shot, and ‘Smart Remote Control’4, which allows for direct control of exposure and shutter speed from a connected smartphone and is particularly useful for self-portraits or group shots5. Find out more at www.playmemoriescameraapps.com .The new ?7 and ?7R cameras each have a tough, magnesium alloy build and are dust and moisture resistant for standing up to some of the toughest weather conditions.

?7R Camera

Designed for professional photographers and highly advanced enthusiasts, the new ?7R model is the world’s smallest and lightest full-frame interchangeable lens camera2.

It has an impressive 36.4 effective megapixel full frame sensor and no optical low pass filter, ensuring that the extraordinary resolving power is fully realized and resulting in an unprecedented level of detail and clarity in images.

The camera features a new Fast Intelligent AF technology that delivers blazingly quick, accurate autofocus. Additionally, there are a total of three selectable sizes for the Flexible Spot AF frame, minimizing the risk of accidentally focusing on the wrong target.

?7 Camera

Offering an exciting entry into the world of full-frame photography, the ?7 camera features an advanced 24.3 effective megapixel full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor paired with the powerful new BIONZ X processor.

The exciting new camera has an innovative Fast Hybrid AF system that combines phase- and contrast-detect AF methods to ensure speedy, accurate autofocus. It can also shoot at up to 5 fps continuously with non-stop AF tracking, allowing it to keep pace with fast- moving athletes, wildlife or energetic children.

New Sony ? Lenses and Accessories

There are a total of 5 new full-frame E-mount lenses designed to take full advantage of the powerful imaging capabilities of the ?7R and ?7 cameras, including mid-range zoom lenses from Sony and Carl Zeiss, two bright Zeiss Sonnar T*TM prime lenses and a premium- quality G LensTM telephoto zoom. Sony’s growing E-mount interchangeable lens lineup now consists of 21 different lenses including the new full-frame models.

In addition to the new lenses, there are also two new-generation mount adaptors that give photographers the ability to utilize full-frame Sony A-mount optics on the ?7 and ?7R cameras. The LA-EA3 adapter simply adds compatibility for existing A-mount lenses the new cameras, while the LA-EA4 model adds the ultra-fast focusing and shooting capabilities of Sony’s innovative Translucent Mirror Technology.

There is also a new vertical grip (VG-C1EM) that offers greater comfort during vertical shooting and can accommodate two separate NP-FW50 batteries for extended battery life and shooting time. A new BC-TRW compact external battery charger that quickly charges batteries and is great for travel, and FA-CS1M off camera shoe allows the use of external flashes (HVL-43M, 20M) in off-camera wired applications. Additionally, the new3

LCS-ELCA premium soft leather carry case protects the ?7 and ?7R cameras from scuffs and marks while being carried.

Pricing and Availability

The Sony ?7R and ?7 full-frame interchangeable lens cameras will be available for purchase this December.

The ?7R camera will be offered as a body-only for about $2300.

The Sony ?7 compact system camera will be offered with a 28-70mm F3.5 – F5.6 full- frame lens (model SEL2870) for about $2000. It will also be offered as a body-only for about $1700.

The versatile new LA-EA3 and LA-EA4 mount adapters will be available in December for about $200 and $350, respectively.

The new VG-C1EM vertical grip and LCS-ELCA premium case will also be available in December for about $300 and $ 140, respectively.

The new camera and all compatible accessories will be available at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) and other authorized dealers nationwide.[/toggle]

October 16, 2013
Google Maps Update For iOS Brings In-Line Route Previews, Tips and Tricks

Google Maps For iOS might not have satisfied every user, but Google is constantly trying to improve its map on the iOS devices through updates often.

The new release shows brief route previews with traffic overlays, which makes it easier and less complicated ways to get from one place to another. If you are not aware of how to use the Google Maps on the iOS devices you can also browse a new Tips and Tricks section for help.

The company also claims in the version 2.3.4 update release notes that the new version brings enhanced support for the Arabic and Hebrew languages (including voice commands and prompts) and bug fixes. The update is now available at the app store.

[via]

October 16, 2013
Apple Confirms October 22nd iPad Event

While the latest rumours pointed towards Apple holding a media event to unveil the new iPad on October 22nd, today it was officially confirmed. The event proudly states, “We still have a lot to cover.”

The 5th generation iPad will reportedly come with a 9.7-inch display, the new A7 processor, an 8MP camera and the same Touch ID fingerprint sensor found in the iPhone 5s.

As for the iPad mini, the second generation of the tablet is expected to have a 7.9-inch Retina display with the A7 chip.

Expectations are also high that Apple will announce the release of the latest version of its desktop software, OSX “Mavericks”, which recently completed its testing phase, and set a date for the release of the new Mac Pro desktop computer. The latter was trailed in June, and will be the first update to the Mac Pro line since June 2012.

October 15, 2013
LG Launches 55 & 65 Inch 4K Ultra HD TVs (PR)

LG Electronics India expanded its Ultra HD TV portfolio by unveiling two new models- a 55-inch and a 65-inch television.

“When we first unveiled our 84-inch ULTRA HD TV the reception we received was phenomenal,” said Soon Kwon, MD- LG India. “The ULTRA HD TV format is here to stay and with the new sizes offering NANO FULL LED backlighting and our proprietary Tru-ULTRA HD Engine, these models are in a class of their own.” Added Mr. Kwon

The TVs–which have an elegant, streamlined look, with an ultra-narrow bezel and an attractive silver stand–have a few unique features, including LG’s Nano full-array LED backlight technology, which spreads LED particles across a thin film behind the screen, allowing for local dimming of 144 separate zones, the company says. In past reviews of full-array backlights with local dimming, we’ve seen improvements in black levels and contrast, though we haven’t yet tested these specific sets.

Also unique is a retractable 4.1-channel motorized sound bar speaker system that slides out of view when the TV isn’t being used. The system, which can be programmed to remain out of view even when the TV is playing, includes a behind-the-screen subwoofer for lower bass frequencies.

The sets will also be among the first to include a built-in HEVC (also known as H.265) decoder. HEVC is a new video codec that uses an extremely efficient compression scheme, so it can send higher-quality content–such as Ultra HD movies and TV shows–without requiring more bandwidth. In the future, we expect to see many content providers, as well as broadcasters and Internet video services, move to the HEVC format to deliver Ultra HD content. We also expect Blu-ray to adopt the HEVC standard in Ultra HD Blu-ray players sometime next year.

Not surprisingly, the TVs are loaded with features, including LG’s smart TV platform with access to a lot of online content, plus its passive Cinema 3D technology. LG’s new LA9700 Ultra HD 4K TVs have an inbuilt camera and inbuilt Wi-Fi connectivity with a USB movie and HDMI connection.

The 55 and 65 inch LA9700 Ultra HD TVs are priced at Rs.3,30,000 and Rs.4,50,000 respectively, and are available across LG best shops from 1^st week of Oct’13.

[toggle title=”Press Release”]LG launches 55- & 65-INCH 4K ULTRA HD TV for Ultimate Home Entertainment

ü Provides Incredibly Sharp Picture and Powerful Audio Quality

ü LG LA9700 ULTRA HD TVs received Certification of Validation from Intertek and Underwriters Laboratories

The leading Home Entertainment brand of the country, LG Electronics India today, expanded its Ultra HD TV portfolio by unveiling two new models- 55-inch and 65-inch to provide an irresistible home entertainment experience to its customers. LG’s new ULTRA HD TVs offer incredible sense of immersion with stunningly sharp picture quality and exceptional color contrast to produce mesmerizing ULTRA HD images.

“When we first unveiled our 84-inch ULTRA HD TV the reception we received was phenomenal,” said Soon Kwon, MD- LG India. “The ULTRA HD TV format is here to stay and with the new sizes offering NANO FULL LED backlighting and our proprietary Tru-ULTRA HD Engine, these models are in a class of their own.” Added Mr. Kwon

The prediction of a bright future for UDTV comes from NPD Display Search, who’s latest Quarterly TV Design and Features Report forecasts as many as 7 million worldwide shipments by 2016, rising from an expected 500,000 units this year.

Unparalleled ULTRA HD Picture Quality:
LG’s 55and 65-inch ULTRA HD TVs deliver an incredible 8.3 million pixels per frame, enabling the new models to achieve a superior screen resolution. Its incredible picture quality has received the certificate of validation from Intertek and Underwriters Laboratories (UL), two of the most respected product testing and certification bodies in the world. LG’-ULTRA HD Engine up-scales any video format into crisp, near-ULTRA HD picture quality. Optimized with the company’s proprietary Super Resolution algorithm, 1000 MCI, the Tru-ULTRA HD Engine maximizes image clarity , improves sharpness and eliminates any blurring caused by the up-scaling process.

Additionally, LG has equipped its new ULTRA HD TVs with Nano FULL LED backlighting. As a result, illumination control is greatly enhanced, guaranteeing outstanding contrast and consistent brightness across the entire breadth of the screen. Fitted with an IPS Panel, consumers can enjoy watching LG’s ULTRA HD TVs from almost any position in the room, without having to worry about color distortion or loss of visual detail.

The razor-sharp ULTRA HD screen resolution of LG’s 55- and 65-inch models produces the most stunning 3D images. Additionally, the company’s FPR 3D technology provides a crosstalk flicker-free 3D viewing experience that enables the user to wear comfortable, lightweight 3D glasses. It also has a dual play feature which includes special glasses allowing two players to see only their perspectives simultaneously on the full screen at once without having to split the screen. This elevates the gaming experience a full notch up, truly an encounter of the first kind. Furthermore, the embedded 2D to 3D conversion engine makes it possible to convert any 2D show to 3D, thus making 3D content practically limitless.

Sliding Speaker & Breathtaking Design:
LG has complemented its superior ULTRA HD picture technology with captivating audio. Embedded with virtual surround plus feature, both new models feature a 4.1 channel, 50W sound system that includes the Sliding Speaker. This cleverly concealed sound bar boasts four forward-facing speakers, which deliver room-filling audio with excellent expression across the mid and high frequency ranges. Located behind the screen, a powerful subwoofer ensures strong bass performance as well. The elegant, decor-enhancing Sliding Speaker can be programmed to remain permanently hidden or permanently extended. Alternatively, it can be set to silently slide out when the TV is turned on, and retract when powered off.

LG’s ULTRA HD TVs are the embodiment of stylish yet functional modern design. The new models offer the subtle aesthetics and narrow bezels of LG’s CINEMA SCREEN Design, serving to heighten the viewer’s sense of immersion. An unobtrusive chrome finish stand completes the minimalist appearance of LG’s next generation TVs.

Desirably Smart TV:
LG’s Smart TV platform offers an incredible user-friendly design and access to a growing collection of apps and content services from all over the globe. Meanwhile, the Magic Remote provides natural language recognition, point, wheel, and gesture controoptions, making it easy to navigate menus, search for content or play entertaining game apps. LG’s Smart TV platform also incorporates a useful service called Now On, which recommends content based on the user’s viewing habits. In addition, the 55- and 65-inch ULTRA HD TVs boast excellent wireless connectivity options, such as WiDi and Miracast for convenient screen mirroring, and LG’s NFC-based Tag On for convenient device pairing. One can record live television with the help of time machine embedded in the smart tv feature. It also has voice & motion control feature which monitors voice modulation and acts according to the need. Skype feature in the smart tv helps make voice and video calls, and chat with your friends and relatives anytime of the day.

Convenience & Connectivity:
LG’s new ULTRA HD TVs have an inbuilt camera and inbuilt wi-fi connectivity with a USB movie and HDMI connection. Features like Digital (Output Audio Out) and HVEC decoder directly play the ultra HD content and smartly save energy.

The 55 and 65 inch LA9700 Ultra HD TVs are priced at Rs.3,30,000 and Rs.4,50,000 respectively, and are available across LG best shops from 1st week of Oct’13.[/toggle]

October 15, 2013
Nokia Lumia 1520 Specs and Release date

The Nokia Lumia 1520 is supposedly the first phablet like device for the company. We have seen various leaks for this device now and then, and the latest leaks for Lumia 1520 shows all the specs for the device.

The Nokia Lumia 1520 is expected to have a 6 inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels(367ppi), the rumors also suggest that it will be an AMOLED display. The processor is expected to be a quad-core Snapdragon 800, clocked at the 2 GHz, which would make the Lumia 1520 the most powerful Windows Phone ever, coupled with its 2 GB of RAM. Sources are claiming also a 64 GB variant, which seems unlikely if we are going to get a microSD slot as well.

The device is expected to sport a 3400 mAh battery and run on Windows Phone 8.1 OS, Lumia 1520 is rumored to feature a 20.7 MP camera with Carl Zeiss lens, improved Panorama and optical image stabilization. The Nokia Lumia 1520 phablet is expected to become official on October 22 at Nokia World in Abu Dhabi.

October 15, 2013
Latest Chrome OS Update Brings Drag-and-drop Features For Touchscreens
The Chrome OS users have been enjoying the latest OS features and the touchscreen benefits since September. The latest update of the chrome OS, brings up touchscreen text selection and drag and drop support.

The platform’s latest version also brings up a number of other changes including the ability to choose audio sources from the tray menu and the addition of on-by-default Quickoffice editor for Word and Excel. Users can now also check their connection using a diagnostics tool and share folders and files direct from the File app. If you’re using any Chrome OS device, you can expect to get the OS 30 update in few days from now.

Some highlights of these fixes are:
- Audio source selector in the tray menu
- Quickoffice (Beta) editor for Word & Excel files on by default
- Improved UI for release channel switcher – owner accounts
- Touch enabled text selection on touch devices
- Touch enabled drag and drop on touch devices
- Connectivity diagnostics tool enabled on the Chrome offline page
- Ability to share folders and files from Files app
- Better sandboxing for Native Client
October 15, 2013
Nikon To Sue Polaroid, iM1836 is a Look Alike of J1
Look at the cameras in the above image, from left to right you can see the Polaroid iM1836 and the Nikon J1. Do you notice any similarity ? Nikon does, as Nikon has filed a lawsuit with the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against Sakar International, Inc for the alleged infringement of the design patent and trade dress right owned by Nikon. However, here are some features from both the cameras:

Polaroid iM1836 features:
- 3.5″ Touchscreen display
- 18.1 MP
- HD Video
- ISO Upto 3200
- HDMI Output
- Detachable Flash Unit
Nikon J1 Features:
- 10.1 megapixel Camera
- CMOS Image Sensor
- Full HD Recording
- 3 inch LCD Monitor with Protection Glass
- ISO 100 – ISO 3200 Sensitivity
- 35 mm Equivalent Focal Length: 27 – 81 mm
- f/3.5 – f/5.6 Aperture
[toggle title=”Press Release “]Nikon filed a lawsuit in the U.S. for design patent and trade dress infringement

October 15, 2013

On October 11, 2013 (US Eastern Time), Nikon Corporation (having its principal place of business in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, President: Makoto Kimura) and Nikon Inc. (having its principal place of business in New York, President & CEO: Nobuyoshi Gokyu) (collectively, hereafter referred to as “Nikon”) filed a lawsuit with the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against Sakar International, Inc. (having its principal place of business in New Jersey) (hereafter referred to as “Sakar”) for the alleged infringement of the design patent and trade dress right owned by Nikon. Nikon seeks injunctive relief against Sakar in the lawsuit to prevent them from manufacturing and selling their Polaroid brand digital still camera, “Polaroid iM1836”.

Nikon makes a great effort to create designs that can be differentiated from other companies’ products, as well as to strongly deter the imitation of its designs. Although Nikon has negotiated with Sakar to amicably solve this problem, we could not reach an agreement. Consequently, Nikon decided to initiate the lawsuit by necessity.

The abovementioned design patent and trade dress right are related to the Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lenses “Nikon 1”.[/toggle]
October 15, 2013
Apple Hires CEO Of Burberry To Boost Up Retail Business

Apple today announced that Angela Ahrendts, CEO of Burberry, will be joining Apple in a newly created position, as a senior vice president and member of the executive team, reporting to CEO Tim Cook.

Angela Ahrendts, currently CEO of Burberry, has been recruited to fill a position that will be created especially for her when she switches allegiances next spring — as a senior VP responsible for the “strategic direction, expansion and operation” of Apple’s shopping experience. Ahrendts has already demonstrated that she can work with Apple, as Burberry helped to promote the launch of the iPhone 5s (shown above) as the show was recorded with the new iPhone.

Statement from Tim Cook:

I am thrilled that Angela will be joining our team,” said Tim Cook. “She shares our values and our focus on innovation, and she places the same strong emphasis as we do on the customer experience. She has shown herself to be an extraordinary leader throughout her career and has a proven track record.”

Statement from Angela Ahrendts:

I am profoundly honored to join Apple in this newly created position next year, and very much look forward to working with the global teams to further enrich the consumer experience on and offline,” said Ahrendts. “I have always admired the innovation and impact Apple products and services have on people’s lives and hope in some small way I can help contribute to the company’s continued success and leadership in changing the world.”

October 15, 2013
Sony Alpha A7 And A7r Cameras Leak

The upcoming Sony Alpha A7 and Alpha A7r cameras have leaked out ahead of official release.

The image on top shows the 24 megapixel Sony Alpha A7 with the 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens. The image below shows the 36 megapixel A7r with the 35mm f/2.8 Zeiss lens.

The Sony Alpha A7 is equipped with a 24 megapixel sensor and comes supplied with a 28-70 mm lens and is expected to cost around $1698 for just the camera body without any lens and around $1,998 a camera lens kit and camera body.

The Sony Alpha A7r will come equipped with a 36 megapixel sensor and a 35mm f/2.8 Zeiss lens as seen in the image below and is expected to be priced at $2,198 for the body only. Both the Sony A7 and A7r cameras are equipped with 2.4 million dot resolution OLED electronic viewfinder technology and include SD card storage and are powered by NEX batteries.

The LCD screens on the rear of the cameras tilt and both feature integrated Wi-Fi and NFC technology. The cameras also have a new LAEA Full Frame A to E-mount adapter and an optional vertical grip. The cameras are tipped to work with current NEX APS-C lenses and crop mode or in full frame mode if shooters are okay with heavy vignetting and dark corners.

Expect an official announcement on Wednesday.

[Via,Via]

October 14, 2013
Samsung Galaxy S4 Android 4.3 Update Leaks, You Can Get It Now

A Samsung Galaxy S4 Android 4.3 update is seemingly on the cards with the software leaking ahead of an expected mass rollout in the coming weeks.

Although Android 4.4 KitKat is believed to be heading to the realms of reality later this month aboard the heavily rumoured Google Nexus 5, the Samsung Galaxy S4 is yet to be bestowed with the latest iteration of Jelly Bean. This looks set to change though with the Samsung Galaxy S4 Android 4.3 update having leaked once again.

S4 users can install the leaked software update by following the instructions over on Sammobile but be warned that you do so at your own risk and you could well end up wiping all your data and bricking your handset.

Android 4.3 Jelly Bean should offer blocking of apps for parental use, accessiblity tweaks for notifications sent via Bluetooth, easier text input, faster user-switching, dial pad autocomplete, background Wi-Fi location and support for Africaans, Amharic, Hindi, Swahili and Zulu.

The folks at SamMobile have already done a video preview of the Android 4.3 ROM running on the Galaxy S4 smartphone. Check it out below.

[youtube id=”8Z8kwAeJDqE” width=”100%” height=”300px”]

Anyone wants to give this particular update version a go? The download and install instructions can be found here.

October 14, 2013
Windows Phone 8 GDR3 Update Is Now Official
Micxrosoft has announced the third update to the Windows Phone 8 OS – this is known as GDR3 or General Distribution Release 3.

The company stated on their blog that the update includes several key features such as a “bigger Start screen” that now houses six Live Tiles and “paves the way for future Windows Phone devices with 5- and 6-inch” with 1080p displays. In addition, GDR3 supports Qualcomm’s 8974 quad-core processor and comes with Driving Mode, screen reader (help the blind and visually impaired use their device), plus better storage management, new rotation lock, and improved internet sharing feature for making a hotspot with Windows 8.1 devices.

You’ll also find that another much-requested feature has made it: broader custom ringtone support. At long last, you’ll be able to put your own sounds to use on text messages, instant messages, emails, voicemails and reminders.

The company outlined three key objectives of the update:
1. Enable incredible new Windows Phone devices.
2. Enhance the platform with new capabilities for current users and partners.
3. Improve overall quality.”
Microsoft says that the GDR3 update will begin rolling out to device owners within the coming weeks and that this will continue for several months. That’s pretty vague considering there are many device users eager to get a look at what’s on offer, but Microsoft says in its press release that availability will vary depending on several factors including device model and carrier.
October 14, 2013
HTC One Max Power Case, Gives 30 Percent Extra Battery Life

Along with the HTC One Max itself, HTC has also launched a bunch of accessories including the new flip cover like Power case for the giant HTC One Max.

The power case uses paper type batteries that are installed inside the front flip of the cover itself and does not add much bulk to the device. It is fairly easy to use accessory as the device uses a three pin system and gets charged by the phones battery, which terminates the need to put in a wire and charge it separately. The Power Case from HTC adds approximately 1200 mAh of extra battery to the already available 3300 mAh battery of the HTC One Max, which to some extent fulfills a need of carrying a portable charger.

Alongside the battery benefits, the flip cover also gives a premium look the One Max itself and makes it a good experience to watch movies and surf web in the landscape mode.

htc cover

One Max Battery Case

One Max power case

October 14, 2013
HTC Fetch Launched, Will Help to Find Your Lost Phone
If you are tired of losing your phone or leaving it behind, the HTC Fetch might be the best accessory for you HTC phone. The Fetch is a phone finder, or a key finder depending on what you are looking for. The Keychain accessory pairs up with your HTC device via Bluetooth 4.0 and can be used to locate your phone if you have a habit of leaving it on other peoples desks. Just a click after the device is activated can make the phone ring loudly, the fetch also has a inbuilt speaker hence you will get a warning tone if you leave the phone behind, or you lose the fetch.

By any chance if you loose both, a map location feature lets you know where your HTC Fetch and phone were last together.

Specifications of HTC Fetch:
- Audible alert for notification
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Up to 3 Fetch to be connected to your phone
- Working range 15m
- Signal strength indicator
- 6 month battery lifetime (replaceable battery) CR 2032
- Multi-funtion button
- dimensions – 29.35 x 29.35 x 9.3mm
The device is compatible with HTC One mini, HTC Butterfly s and the HTC One Max
October 14, 2013