Tag: smartphones

Sony announces Xperia Miro, Tipo, Tipo Dual
The Miro will be available in various colours

Sony yesterday announced three colorful, entry-level Android handsets (9 days before the official countdown) via its Facebook page that are expected to ship in the third quarter of the year. Though no spec-sheets have been revealed, here they are!
- Xperia Miro
The Miro is an entry level Xperia

Xperia miro packs a 3.5″ screen, 5MP camera, DLNA, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and, of course, a bunch of Sony exclusive software tricks to go with the adjustable illumination effects of the handset. There’s also a front facing camera for video chat. This is a Sony’s Facebook-centric smartphone, with the social networking site being integrated into the device.
- Xperia Tipo, Tipo Dual
The Tipo dual has a dedicated sim-switch button

The Xperia tipo and tipo dual are basic Android ICS handsets with a 3.2″ display and 3.2 MP camera. The phones run on an 800 MHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor but only 2.5 GB user accessible memory out of the 4 GB onboard memory. The tipo dual features a dedicated SIM-swap key to help switch between SIM cards. Users can also preset the phone to swap between SIM cards at a particular time during the day. Both the devices feature identical specifications except for the dual-SIM capabilities on the Xperia tipo dual.

Check out these introductory videos put up by Sony-
June 14, 2012
Harman Kardon Releases new iPhone friendly Headphones: AE, BT, CL and NI(PR)
Harman Kardon has just released a whole new range of headphones that include five options: two sound-isolating in-ear models tailored specifically for iPhone use and three on-ear and over-ear styles – including a wireless Bluetooth® and noise-cancelling model.

The in-ear model NI ($99.95) (Rs. 5570)
- 9mm drivers
- Rectangular black housing – shaped like the back of an iPhone
- A three-button remote with a built-in microphone
- Three sizes of silicone sleeves
The in-ear model AE ($149.95) (Rs. 8355)
- Silver-toned aluminum casing
- Premium 9mm drivers optimized
- A three-button remote with a built-in microphone is included
- Foam sleeves are offered along with three sizes of silicone sleeves
The on-ear model CL ($199) (Rs. 11,085)
- Metal hinges
- Sand-blasted metal finish and rectangular ear cups
- 40mm drivers
- Detachable cables feature highly finished metal connectors
- Cables are made of a tightly woven fabric to enhance feel as well as durability and flexibility.
The over-ear model BT ($249) Bluetooth headphones (Rs. 13,871)
- Integrated microphone
- Built-in playback buttons
- Charged via the included USB cable, but also work in passive mode
- Battery lasts 12 hours
- Fabric-covered headphone cable for wired playback from an iPhone, iPod or iPad.
The over-ear model NC ($299, available late summer) noise-cancelling headphones (Rs. 16650)
- HARMAN’s proprietary digital active noise-cancelling technology
- Slow-retention foam is used in the ear pads
- A 30-hour battery life
- Recharged via the included USB cable
- Continue to play when the battery runs dry
- Fabric-covered detachable cable and a premium case.
[quote]These headphones are enhanced by several audio technologies developed by HARMAN yet also reflect the brand’s commitment to innovative industrial design, People who truly appreciate beautiful sound – whether it is on the go or in the living room – should not compromise when it comes to performance. These refined and distinctive headphones are built with the precision that has always defined Harman Kardon’s high-fidelity products.

-Dinesh Paliwal, Chairman, President and CEO of HARMAN.[/quote]

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HARMAN Brings Superior Sound, Comfort and Audio Innovation to New Line of Harman Kardon® Headphones

Modern design meets sophisticated acoustic performance in five Harman Kardon headphone models, priced from $99 to $299

For more information: HarmanKardon.com

STAMFORD, Conn. – HARMAN International Industries announced availability of a new line of Harman Kardon® headphones that deliver a performance destined to impress music lovers and longtime fans of the innovative and legendary audio brand. The Harman Kardon headphones include five options: two sound-isolating in-ear models tailored specifically for iPhone use and three on-ear and over-ear styles – including a wireless Bluetooth® and noise-cancelling model – for music lovers seeking a refined industrial design true to Harman Kardon’s rich acoustical heritage.

Harman Kardon, which introduced the world’s first stereo receiver in 1958, is synonymous with beautiful sound and attractive design. Pulling from a heritage of acoustic innovation, the Harman Kardon headphones incorporate optimized drivers that produce accurate bass even at low volumes, whereas many competing models today artificially exaggerate bass or treble. The distinctive rectangular shape of the in-ear, on-ear and over-ear headphones mirrors the back case of an iPhone, highlighting a design meant to pair with an iPhone, iPad or iPod.

“These headphones are enhanced by several audio technologies developed by HARMAN yet also reflect the brand’s commitment to innovative industrial design,” said Dinesh Paliwal, Chairman, President and CEO of HARMAN. “People who truly appreciate beautiful sound – whether it is on the go or in the living room – should not compromise when it comes to performance. These refined and distinctive headphones are built with the precision that has always defined Harman Kardon’s high-fidelity products.”

The headphones share several distinguishing features:

* The three on-ear/over-ear models are framed by a lightweight sand-blasted steel outer band that comes in two sizes so users can swap for the correct fit, while a leather inner band rests on the wearer’s head for comfort. Steel hinges accentuate the rugged feel of the headphone frame, which does not include plastic. Leather ear pads float in an enclosed steel frame, with only soft leather touching the listener’s ears. The detachable ear pads are connected by industrial-strength magnets to remove for cleaning or replacement. The headphones include 40mm drivers and have detachable cables. The headphones fold flat to slip easily into a briefcase or bag, a storage feature that will appeal to travelers. Each model includes a premium carrying case.

* Both in-ear styles were designed for passive noise cancellation so users clearly hear music and other audio content at lower volume levels – healthier for the ears. Multiple earphone sleeve options allow users to find the right fit while blocking exterior noise from disturbing the clarity of the audio content. Each model includes a three-button Apple-specified remote to make and receive phone calls while controlling volume and playback features.

Details of the five headphone models include:

* The in-ear model NI ($99.95) features 9mm drivers to provide a wide-dynamic range and high sound-pressure levels. This ultralight model has a rectangular black housing – shaped like the back of an iPhone – and a three-button remote with a built-in microphone for calls. Three sizes of silicone sleeves offer a comfortable fit and noise isolation.

* The in-ear model AE ($149.95) acoustically enhanced headphones isolate noise and are enclosed by a silver-toned aluminum casing for superior acoustic dampening to provide true low-frequency reproduction. The headphones include premium 9mm drivers optimized to work with the metal housing to deliver extended bass response. A three-button remote with a built-in microphone is included, while foam sleeves are offered along with three sizes of silicone sleeves.

* The on-ear model CL ($199) are defined by precision with metal hinges, a sand-blasted metal finish and rectangular ear cups that reflect the iPhone’s iconic design. The 40mm drivers are uniquely baffled to create an air flow that extends the low frequencies – bass – better than other models in their class. The detachable cables feature highly finished metal connectors, while the cables are made of a tightly woven fabric to enhance feel as well as durability and flexibility.

* The over-ear model BT ($249) Bluetooth headphones include an integrated microphone so users don’t have to remove them for a call. Built-in playback buttons sit along the side of one ear cup for easy music controls. These high-performance wireless headphones are charged via the included USB cable, but also work in passive mode. That means if the battery – which lasts 12 hours – is dead, users can attach the fabric-covered headphone cable for wired playback from an iPhone, iPod or iPad. Competitive Bluetooth headphones do not offer passive playback.

* The over-ear model NC ($299, available late summer) noise-cancelling headphones include HARMAN’s proprietary digital active noise-cancelling technology the company developed for acoustic installations in premium automobiles. Slow-retention foam is used in the ear pads to create a comfortable fit that also improves passive noise cancellation by creating an acoustic seal. The headphones have a 30-hour battery life and are recharged via the included USB cable. Unlike competing noise-cancelling headphones, the Harman Kardon headphones continue to play when the battery runs dry. The headphones come with a fabric-covered detachable cable and a premium case.

Availability

The Harman Kardon headphones are now available exclusively at Apple Retail Stores and Apple.com. For additional information, visit HarmanKardon.com.

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June 13, 2012
HTC will Buy S3 Graphics as a dead investment, security for future Patent suits.

HTC has assured that after a final assessment of the worth of S3 graphics the company will wrap up the buyout some time soon. The 270 patents that come into HTC portfolio will help the company fight off any legal issues that may arise in the future.

The strong Patent portfolio may also scare potential competition and make them think twice before any other patent wars begin

[Focus Taiwan]

June 13, 2012
Android Activations up to 900,000 a day, says Google’s Andy Rubin

Android activations are at an all time high, considering companies are hell bent on stuffing the OS into anything possible. At MWC 2012 Andy Rubin had announced that Android activations were at about 850,000 a day, now the number is higher. Much Higher at 900,000, or just short of a million devices a day (woot!)

Just a day before WWDC (Apple’s Developer Event) Andy Rubin has dropped this information to crunch the usual numbers you can expect from Tim Cook’s Keynote event.

Incidentally we will have all the information on iGyaan.in

June 11, 2012
Sony SmartWatch to launch this month, to cost Rs 6299

The SmartWatch will work with all Android phones.

According to Sony India’s Facebook page it will release its SmartWatches for Android smartphones by the end of this month at a price of around Rs 6299. The SmartWatch has a 1.3 inch OLED display that is used by the watch to notify users about the updates and events, like incoming calls, texts, messages and social feeds with the use of vibration and screen alert. It would also include a bluetooth headset which allows users to recieve calls.

The watch, which would be available in various colours, would be compatible with all Android smartphones and would sync over Bluetooth 3.0.

June 11, 2012
Apple sues HTC for the 3rd time, One series now under the radar

Apple has filed a third challenge against HTC on June 4th claiming claims HTC is still violating patents with their new One series devices. If this case goes anywhere near success, Apple would slap down 29 devices including the new One Series, the One X, the One V and the One S. A full list of implicated handsets is in the source link below.

The latest suit contains a quote by Steve Jobs.

[quote]We can sit by and watch competitors steal our patented inventions, or we can do something about it. We’ve decided to do something about it, We think competition is healthy, but competitors should create their own original technology, not steal ours. [/quote]

[FOSSpatents]

June 7, 2012
Leaked iPhone 5 cases hint at taller iPhone with a Metal Back

There are some images floating around the Inter-webs of a new iPhone design shell, that has been received by many repair companies. UBreakiFix has added some pictures that show a completely new iPhone dock connector.

The images also indicate a brand new back design with a mix of aluminum and glass, that seems to look rather interesting to us. There is still chances that these are images from a fake chinese manufactory, pretending to be the real deal. But, it definitely strengthens the rumors of a 3.99 inch 16:9 screen and a tiny dock connector.

[uBreakiFix]

May 30, 2012
RIM ready to cut more jobs, 2000 employees’ jobs loom in the future, as Blackberry suffers downfall

Another sad day for Blackberry lovers, The company behind Blackberry does not seem to be getting a break. After selling assets and cutting several jobs, switching CEO’s and gameplay strategies, the company is yet again set to cut upto 2000 jobs in the coming weeks as bad news continues.

The announcement is reportedly said to happen on or before 1st June. 2000 job cuts may seem like a large number, but several other reports including Reuters are pointing at upto 6000 job cuts for the company dealing with massive market loss.

RIM or anyone from the company refuses to comment on the issue at hand. But, we will know sooner than later.

May 28, 2012
Samsung Galaxy S III Details leaked by Amazon Germany

A couple of days ago Samsung Galaxy S3 popped up on Amazon Germany’s site and showed off the specs that could possibly be the most accurate pre launch information of a device. A 4.7 inch Super AMOLED touchscreen and a 12 megapixel camera are two things that were mentioned clearly in the listing title. The listing also shows 16 GB of internal memory, expandable up to 32GB. Unfortunately no images of the device are available on the posting.

[Amazon.de]

April 23, 2012
Nokia CEO: Multicore Processors are a waste of Battery

Nokia CEO Stephen Elop said that multicore processors are a waste of battery life for the consumer and nothing else, in a recent interview with a Chinese newspaper Yangcheng Evening News.

The so-called dual-core, quad-core mobile phones can only waste batteries, but not be useful for consumers all the time.

-Elop

He also claimed that no iPhone or Android smartphone has been able to beat Nokia 900’s performance despite their multicore innards.

[Source – Translated]

April 16, 2012
Evernote for Android app brings Customizable Widgets and Voice to text.

All this Siri business has led to an evolution of the voice dictation on mobile phones. With more and more developers adding to the speech to text frenzy. Evernote is the next major app to bring the Speech to Text engine into their Android App, with a catch that only devices with Android 4.0 or above will be able to access said feature.

The new Widgets are full of tweak-able features that allow you to customize color, buttons and exactly which notes appear in the large widget.A new feature called Quick Snapshot also allows you to save captures to your account.

[Evernote]

March 30, 2012
Nokia Lumia will come to China on March 28th

Nokia CEO Stephen Elop has confirmed that the company will bring its pride Windows Phone Devices AKA “Lumia” Series to the Chinese waters later this month. No specifics on the models available , but looks like China will get Lumia 900 Global, 800 and 710 at first followed by the 610 later this year. Both China Telecom and China Unicom are said to be partners with Nokia for the upcoming launch.

[21st Century]

March 13, 2012
Android 5.0 confirmed to be Jelly Bean, Asus will get it first !

Asus hopes its close partnership with Google will lead it to be the first company to offer devices running Android Jelly Bean – version 5.0. Asus prides itself on its Android upgrade efficiency, as it was the first to provide tablets running Honeycomb and the first to push the Ice Cream Sandwich update to its tablets. Based on Google’s update schedule, it’s within reason to expect Android 5.0 to hit within the next year

Asus is very close to Google, so once they have Android 5.0 I think there will be a high possibility that we will be the first wave to offer the Jelly Bean update.

-Asus VP, Benson Lin

Ready to work out your next device? no point for the next six months anyway.

March 4, 2012
New Technology by Nokia Siemens could end network drop problems (PR)

Nokia and Siemens HSPA+ Multiflow may offer some relief for those pesky tower to tower transitions during transit. delivering double the data speed and up to 50 percent faster response compared to existing HSPA+ networks, says Nokia Siemens.

Multiflow allows compatible devices on the edge of a cell to connect to two sites simultaneously, letting your device send and receive data between two base stations at once. The technology need not be changed, infact Multiflow will be available as a software update for Single RAN systems, as soon as Nokia Siemens pushes it in the second half of 2013

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Mobile World Congress,
Barcelona, Spain – February 20, 2012

Presents first ever demo of HSPA+ Multiflow on commercial infrastructure equipment, delivering up to double the cell edge data speed

Operators will be able to offer enhanced mobile broadband with a new feature for HSPA+ networks from Nokia Siemens Networks and Qualcomm*. Known as HSPA+ Multiflow, it allows devices located close to the edge of a mobile base station’s cell to connect with a second base station serving a neighboring cell. The ‘Multiflow’ name refers to the two different paths data can then take to reach a device. The feature makes far more efficient use of network resources, delivering up to double the data speed and up to 50% faster response compared to existing HSPA+ networks.

A live demonstration** at Mobile World Congress 2012 of the feature will be based on Nokia Siemens Networks’ commercial Single RAN offering and Qualcomm’s prototype USB dongles.

“With 100 million smart devices being added every month, we see a consequent increase in ‘smart’ applications that make use of their advanced capabilities. Not only is network traffic rising dramatically, much of it is also unpredictable in nature, and this can impact user experience,” said Keith Sutton, head of the WCDMA business line for Nokia Siemens Networks. “This is where HSPA+ Multiflow helps operators – it reduces imbalances that typically occur in network resource usage, and increases HSPA+ speed and capacity.”

HSPA+ Multiflow enables simultaneous transmission of two data streams from base stations in two adjacent cells to a single user device instead of one data stream from one base station as is the case with HSPA+*** today. Overall, this can up to double throughput (data speeds) for users at cell edge. Due to Nokia Siemens Networks’ highly scalable Single RAN equipment, operators can protect their earlier network investments, by evolving their existing HSPA networks to the new technology with a simple software upgrade.

“We are working with Nokia Siemens Networks to drive the evolution and deployment of technologies like HSPA+,” said Serge Willenegger, vice president of product management at Qualcomm. “This demonstration confirms that HSPA+ Multiflow will enable us to further enhance the HSPA+ mobile broadband user experience, and is thus a valuable contribution toward enhancing the HSPA+ value proposition and further expanding global mobile broadband coverage.”

The HSPA+ Multiflow feature is expected to be 3GPP standardized**** by mid 2012, and will be available commercially from Nokia Siemens Networks by second half of 2013.

To share your thoughts on the topic, join the discussion on Twitter using #MWC12, #HSPA+ and #mobilebroadband.

About Nokia Siemens Networks

Nokia Siemens Networks is the world’s specialist in mobile broadband. From the first ever call on GSM, to the first call on LTE, we operate at the forefront of each generation of mobile technology. Our global experts invent the new capabilities our customers need in their networks. We provide the world’s most efficient mobile networks, the intelligence to maximize the value of those networks, and the services to make it all work seamlessly.

With headquarters in Espoo, Finland, we operate in over 150 countries and had revenues of over 14 billion euros in 2011. http://www.nokiasiemensnetworks.com

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February 21, 2012
Apple granted injunction in German patent suit against Motorola

Apple has been granted an injunction in the patent suit against Motorola at the German court. The case originally focused on three separate applications of this gesture tech two for phones and one for Tablets, but for now, the one used on the Xoom has been deemed outside of Apple’s purview. This win could cause a further blow to Moto’s already dying numbers. Apple has been in the front race this past year for their Patent wars on a number of handset manufacturers.

February 17, 2012