April 2008 Archives

Obviously feeling the effects of the success of the Eee PC, Blue has decided to join the bandwagon and launch their H1 laptop anew in a more consumer-friendly package. The reborn Deep Blue H1 carries a familiar ultra-portable design that features a 1.0 GHz Via Esther processor, 1 GB DDR2 RAM, 40 GB HDD, Wi-Fi and Linux OS (Windows XP optional). It isn't Intel Inside, but so is HP's Mini-Note which just goes to show that it isn't the processor that ultimately dictates the success of a product (though it does play a vital role). Prior to its latest iteration, the H1 was the Blue's UMPC unit that carried a touch-screen interface with a slide-out full QWERTY board underneath it. However, due to its more sophisticated design, it carried a relatively higher price tag with a difficult configuration to work with due to its small size. It’s priced at P 16995 which is just about right for a laptop of its caliber. Maybe this time around, the H1 can be more of a success as opposed to its UMPC predecessor.

Hands down, Apple is probably the most popular all-in-one desktop computer manufacturer to date, but that doesn’t mean other PC manufacturers won’t try to steal some of the thunder from Steve Job’s empire. Unfortunately, the competition isn’t reaping much of a success in their endeavor. Now comes the F-A50. Probably trying to pull one out of Apple’s old think-tank, Fujitsu has come out with their new all-in-one desktop. This latest desktop solution from Fujitsu looks like a throwback to those early and bulky iMacs of yesteryear. The F-A50 comes with an Intel Core 2 Duo 2.1 GHz processor with 2GB RAM, 250GB SATA storage, Intel X3100 graphics and a 16-inch widescreen display. Connectivity is provided with Wi-Fi (b/g) and Bluetooth. For more pics and details, head on over to Akihabar News. While it is indeed a step forward design-wise for Fujitsu  (especially when compared to their prior model), it's still no match to the current crop of iMacs Apple has out in the market today, both design and specification-wise. Oh well, you can’t blame them for trying.

Aside from bagging the Best Mobile Imaging Device in Europe title for 2008, the Nokia N82 now comes in a more sophisticated all-black edition. For those not yet familiar with the N82, it’s one of Nokia’s more advanced imaging handsets. It has a whopping 5-megapixel camera that is complemented by an equally powerful Xenon flash and Carl Zeiss optics. It provides ultra-fast camera activation, autofocus with a dedicated assist lamp, fast reloading between shots and DVD-like video capture quality even in low light conditions. This is definitely one of the best phones ever to come from the Finnish company. The Nokia N82 Black Edition is now available in Nokia stores around the nation.

Catering to those who love shiny little things, Samsung has unveiled their new portable digital players: S2 ‘Pebble’ DAP and the S3 PMP. The S2 ‘Pebble’ is a straight forward compact mp3 player that comes with 1 GB of storage and is available in a variety of colors. Obviously in the same division as Apple’s iPod Shuffle, this diminuitive DAP doesn’t come with a display or a whole lot of features, but offers a multicolor LED status indicator that glows in a very discrete and fashionable manner. PC connection is made available through a specifically-made USB dongle that fits into the 35-mm jack. Design-wise, Samsung's probably got a winner here though a clip of some sort would have been great so the ‘Pebble’ won’t easily fall out of one’s pocket. The S3, on the other hand, is capable of audio (mp3, WMA) and video (mpeg4) playback. Aside from the various color choices, it’ll also be available in 4- and 8GB capacities. Style factor is provided by the LED-lit controls that automatically disappear when not in use. It also comes with a 1.8-inch 240x320 TFT display, FM tuner, screensavers, and flash games. Both have target release dates in the US in the 2^nd quarter of 2008. If ever it becomes locally available, I’m guessing it’ll be middle of this year.

While most PC and electronic manufactures have already taken steps in making their products more green, those of us who are stuck with non-green equipment need not completely throw away our stuff to show our love for the planet. In fact, by disposing of all our non-environmentally safe electronic equipment carelessly, we only contribute to the continuing pollution of the planet. Thanks to Lifehacker, there are simple ways of going green with regards to your computer without exactly having to purchase a new one. From taking advantage of the Power Scheme tools of Windows/Applications to something as simple as turning off unused peripherals, these tips can make a world of difference in the fight to save Mother Earth. Come to think of it, there’s really no excuse for us not to be able to do our share in the green movement. Ordinary stuff as those suggested above or unplugging fully-charged mobile phones/devices not only save energy, but also saves you from unwanted expenses in this financially-challenging times. Spread the word and let these simple yet effective practices become part of your daily routine.

Nokia has unveiled four new phones that are scheduled to be released this year that aims to provide consumers with value minus the hefty price tag.   The Nokia 1680 classic, according to Nokia, is their most affordable camera phone to date. It offers essential mobile phone functionality and a VGA camera to boot. It also comes with phone sharing functionality and access to email on the go. The Nokia 1680 classic is expected in the second quarter of 2008. The Nokia 5000, meanwhile, boasts of a 1.3 megapixel camera, FM radio with recording functionality, and various multimedia capabilities. It likewise supports email, Bluetooth and GPRS connectivity. Looking like a twin of the popular 5310 XpressMusic phone, the Nokia 5000 is set a raise the bar with regards to functional yet affordable handsets. The Nokia 5000 is also expected to start shipping in the second quarter of this year. The Nokia 2680 slide, on the other hand, is a slim camera phone that offers a balance of ease of use and entertainment functionality. It also comes with an FM radio with recording capability, MP3 playback, and an expanded phone book. The integrated digital camera ensures that every moment is captured and shared. The Nokia 2680 slide begins shipping in the third quarter of 2008. The stylish Nokia 7070 features a distinctive geometric pattern design with external light effects. This baby is targeted at people who wish to express themselves through their mobile phone. The Nokia 7070 offers a variety of personalized content which includes themes, wallpapers, and MP3-grade ringtones. The Nokia 7070 is due in the third quarter of 2008 as well. With these new models set to hit the local market pretty soon, buying a replacement for your aging and outdated mobile phone need not burn a hole in your wallet.

We reported a while back about Tag Heuer going into the mobile phone business. While the idea of them making a mobile phone of their own was dead on, the concept model we provided was a far cry from what was actually made. Trying to pull a Vertu on their maiden unit, the Meridiist does a good job in matching the steep price, but fails miserably in providing an equally beautiful and sophisticated design. Clothed with either leather or rubber accents, it features a 1.9-inch QVGA screen, an OLED diplay at the top, a 2-megpaixel camera, and Bluetooth.  As expected, feature-wise, there's nothing impressive about it, but how we wished that at least it looked snazzy and worthy of carrying the Tag Heuer name. It's a good thing though that they didn't skimp out on materials such as the scratch-resistant glass sapphire for the display and stainless steel for the body which helped jack up the price, but design-wise, they could have done a better job. Admittedly, the Vertu is no powerhouse either, but at least it looked worthy of its hefty price tag and has managed to create a name for itself in the competitive mobile phone industry. Tag Heuer, on the other hand, already has a reputation for quality craftsmanship and design in the watch industry; but, sad to say, is a great disappointment when it comes to mobile phones. I guess it's a bit unfair comparing the Meridiist with Vertu considering it's Tag Heuer's first attempt in making a mobile phone, but Vertu has set the standard in luxury phones, and they've set it pretty high. If Tag can’t match or outdo Vertu when it comes to design, it’s best that they stick to watch making (or at least lower the price and offer more features).

Yeah, Apple announced that they will allow developers to make VoIP applications for the iPhone, but they quick to apply the Wi-Fi only clause to it.  Thank God for the guys at Fring who have been known to make VoIP available on almost every mobile/smart phone out now. This works with jail-broken iPhones only and is still considered as a preview of the final version so you might hit a few snags along the way. The good thing about Fring’s iPhone VoIP is that it won’t limit you to Wi-Fi connections, but will also work via EDGE. Once a 3G iPhone comes out this year, I’m pretty sure that a new version from Fring will be released as well which will support 3G connectivity for faster data transmissions. Best of all, it’s free. Installation instructions are likewise available for those who are still clueless on how to install apps on their iPhone. I’ve used Fring on a variety of S60 and Windows Mobile-running smartphones, and I have to admit, it's a nifty application to have so you’ll always be connected to your IM buddies.

Gizmodo has come out with a head-to-head battle between four of the latest and hottest DSLRs in town: Canon XSi (450D), Nikon D60, Sony Alpha a350 and the Olympus E-420. Granted that Gizmodo is no expert in the field of photography, the results are a bit questionable especially from the point-of-view of a hardcore shutterbug, but given what they were able to come up with, you can judge for yourself which one is the best amongst the rest. Personally, I don’t agree with how weight became part of the criteria. True, in the context of things, over-all weight is significant, but not to the point that it becomes a determining factor on which is the best. Picture quality (color saturation, white balance, etc.) and performance (start-up time, shutter lag, special features, etc) would rate as being the primary things to consider when judging the value of cameras. It’s a good thing they included sample shots so readers can judge for themselves which one does a good job at which task. I just wish they provided more test shots at varied conditions and included the exact settings, not just high/low f-stop labels. Anyway, photo-centric sites such as Digital Review have yet to come up with their own comprehensive comparison between these SLRs. So let’s just take what Gizmodo has dished and judge the four by our own standards for the time being. 

Toshiba has redesigned its P300 notebook series and provides a more modern look and sophisticated finish to its desktop-replacement line of mobile computers. Clad in a high-gloss black body, the P300 is available in both Intel and AMD processors. Multimedia functionality is provided by the built-in Harman Kardon speakers, DVD SuperMulti drive and the HDMI port. The most expensive model even comes with dedicated 256 RAM for the ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3470 graphics card. What sets this newly designed series apart from the rest are the small details Toshiba has integrated into it.  From the subtly lit textured touchpad to the sleep-and-charge USB ports that allow for connected devices to charge even when the laptop is turned off, innovation and convenience can be found in the P300 in the most discrete places. Toshiba already has an impressive and extensive line of reasonably priced laptops, and I’m pretty sure that with the new looks and specs of the P300 series, this will have a following of its own. Hopefully, with the more open and competitive local notebook industry, this will become available here in our country as well. I'm keeping my fingers cross on this one.

While watching one of the noontime shows on TV last weekend, I couldn’t help but notice the huge segment devoted to Smart Bro’s new prepaid service. This got me curious so I researched on it a bit more and found out that there was something indeed new and noteworthy about it. For starters, it’s the first and only portable prepaid broadband service that I know of that’s available in the market. It’s not as fast as the average DSL service, but at least you can get bring it with you anywhere and you don't have to go through the stringent process of applying for one as such is the case in most post-paid services. Smart had previously made available a portable solution to their broadband service via a USB modem, but this time around, this new service makes use of a prepaid SIM that can easily be loaded just like a regular SIM only this time around, it’s dedicated for data transmissions only. It also makes use of the existing 3G network which is the first real-world application I’ve seen so far that really highlights the value of the high-bandwidth network for everyone. The rates are similar to data calls made which is P 10 per 30 minute block. The availability of this new prepaid service is indeed helpful in making the internet accessible to more people. Of course, this is only as good as the 3G signal in your area, but neverthless, kudos to Smart for this simple yet effective innovation.

You’ve probably seen the huge ads in the papers promoting this new line of music phones from Samsung, but one of these three new models actually stands out as being a first for the company here in our country. The i450 is a 3.5G (HSDPA) phone that has a pretty decent set of multimedia capabilities. It’s got a 2-megapixel camera at the rear and a 2^nd one for video calls as well as a dual slide mechanism with built-in speakers that come with Ice Power Technology by Bang & Olufsen . Its music player supports a variety of formats and comes with FM radio and a 3.5-mm jack for easy connection of earphones. It's likwise capable of video playback and Bluetooth connectivity. So far, so good, but nothing really outstanding; but pay close attention to the interface of the phone. Yup, you guessed it right. This is the first locally available unit to run on the S60 platform that is more commonly associated with Nokia handsets. Yes, it's true. Finally, an S60-running Samsung phone has made it to Philippine shores. It also features a unique Soft Touch Spin Wheel system for easy navigation of stored media content. Combining the body and design of Samsung with the widely-used and supported S60 software, this has the makings of a match made in heaven. While the i450’s specs alone already speaks volumes about its value, the S60 OS adds a new dimension as others who have grown accustomed to Nokia S60 phones will surely find it a lot easier to switch to Samsung knowing that it now sports the same platform.

The possibilities are indeed endless. Some dudes have managed to run the popular first-person shooter game Quake 3 on the iPod Touch which allows for on-the-go gaming madness. Thanks to the Touch's built-in Wi-fi feature, you can likewise play two players on it (provided of course you can find someone with a Quake-running iPod Touch which I highly doubt). Navigation through the game makes us of the accelerometer of the Touch  and shooting is done by tapping on the screen. It'll be a bit tricky at first, but I pretty sure, once you get the hang of things, it'll surely be addictive. I don't expect this to become available through legal channels anytime soon, but with this proof of concept, maybe Apple would want to tie-up with id Software in the near future as this could be a lucrative partnership in the long run.

Yesterday, I attended the launching of a new brand that is set to make its debut in the local market this year. Axioo, a Singaporean company, has forged a partnership with Millenium Computers Technology to make their line of notebooks available in the Philippines. Since they’re a relatively new company, their line-up of products is quite limited. For the 1^st half of this year, they are releasing three laptops that will cater to various users depending on their needs. Most of you might be familiar with the CMPC which is the identical twin of the Neo Explore X1 albeit the different brand name. This obviously targets the students and tech-savvy youth of today, but don't expect this to last very long because according to Stephen Lim, Axioo managing director, they are set to launch a new UMPC come 2nd half of 2008. The Zetta TEN, on the other hand, is their entry level full-sized laptop. Powered by an Intel Dual-Core processor with 120 GB HDD capacity, this Vista-running mobile computer has a 13.3-inch TFT display and is set to make its debut with a variety of colored options available. Likewise, the more powerful Zetta TEC series comes in varied colors as well. This one has an Intel Core 2 Duo running under the hood with 160 GB storage capacity and a variety of connectivity options available such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and modem. Pricing and availability is yet to be determined, but one thing I'm looking forward to is their after-sales support which sounds very enticing with service such as data recovery and loaner units to be lent to customers who have their laptops repaired for a prolonged period of time. Exclusive software was also reported to be bundled with their laptops which might just give them the edge their looking for over the rest of the pack. With the  entry of this upstart company into the local scene, 2008 is truly shaping up to be a very competitive year for notebook computers.

It seems like HP’s Eee PC-killer is looking pretty good based on the initial set of reviews collected by Engadget from all over the net. Personally, what I really like about the HP 2133 Mini-Note are the options available which allows you to find one that’ll best suit your needs based on your work and budget. While Asus does offer some variations of the Eee, the difference between each model is really minuscule. HP, on the other hand, makes the Mini Note available with varying RAM, HDD capacities, and connectivity options such as Bluetooth. Despite its diminutive size, it’s amazing how the mid-range and more expensive models manage to pack in 120 to 160 GB HDDs which is a huge difference especially when compared to the Eee. Not to mention, the Mini-Note looks more sturdy and sophisticated with its anodized aluminum shell. Price starts at $ 499 for the most basic version and goes as high as $ 849. Critics would probably find that the most expensive model is priced too steep and can actually get you a full laptop. I agree, but what's good about it is that the option is there for those who really want an ultra-portable with specs at par with the big boys. Yeah, it's a bit more pricey than the Eee, but I wou'dn't mind shelling out a few more buck for something as beautiful as this. I can't wait to get my grubby hands on one once it hits local stores.

Following up its initial active dual-SIM phone offering, Samsung has introduced the D780 DuoS. It’s the second unit from the company that offers the convenience of supporting two SIMS at the same time. Based on the photos, it looks a little more stylish than the D880, but the improvements might just end there. It comes with a 2-megpixel camera, Bluetooth, an mp3 player and fm tuner with stereo speakers. Nothing really outstanding when compared to their first DuoS phone and it still doesn’t come with 3G and a secondary camera, so don't expect to make any video calls on this phone. Nevertheless, it’s sill triband-enabled so you can use it most countries which makes it decent choice for jet-setting businessmen who are always on the go. Color variations include dark silver and a mirror silver version. It will make its first appearance in Russia in May and is scheduled to be released in Southeast Asia afterwards. 

There were rumors floating around that Intel might come out with their very own Solid-State drives, but with the demo units they handed out to select employees, I guess it safe to say it’s more than just talk. It was also demonstrated at the Intel Developer’s Forum in Shanghai and they announced that they were on track with its scheduled release in the 2^nd quarter of this year. Those lucky few who have used it testify to the strengths of this upcoming product. Some got even addicted to it they had difficulty switching back to the traditional hard drive when they had to return the demo unit already. For those still not familiar with the technology, here’s a little backgrounder. SSD, as opposed to traditional hard drives, is completely flash-based which does away with any mechanical parts. In turn, it provides faster performance as it is purely electronic, but unfortunately costs more. Right now, SSDs have yet to break the 500GB barrier while conventional hard drives are already at the TB level. However, if everything goes according to Intel’s plans, when this new line is released, we will see them range from 80GB to 160GB capacities in both 1.8- and 2.5-inch sizes. This will definitely be a big boost to the cause of the SSD revolution.

Finally, the N-Gage platform has gotten the green signal to go live. While compatibility is still limited to a select few S60-running handsets namely the N81/8GB, N82, and N95/8GB models;it is however the final version already unlike the previews that come preinstalled on new phones or the previously released beta version. Support for additional handsets will arrive in the coming months so expect most of the S60 devices to be compatible at later date. For those who downloaded the preview/beta version, you'll need to replace it with the latest version and you might need to create a new profile. So for the Nokia-loving game fanatics out there who have compatible phones, let the games begin and start downloading. This is perfect for the summer season so you’re almost guaranteed not to have a dull moment during your vacation.

I guess it really pays to be David Beckham. Not only are you married to one of the hottest babes of the most popular girl group of the 90’s, earn millions from endorsements, and play the sport you love; you also get a one-of-a-kind iPod Touch on your 100^th cap. While other athletes get to bask in the limelight for a few seconds for their record-breaking achievement, David Beckham gets to go home with something more useful than just a commemorative plaque. Given to him by his teammates, this 32-GB Touch is customized in gold with the England logo and his name engraved at the back. It’s said to have cost around £600 which is probably just pocket-change for such professional athletes. It makes me wonder, though, if he’ll ever carry it around with him considering that with the crafty and sly hands of thief, he can loss not only an iPod, but more importantly, his 100^th cap gift as well. Oh well, with all the money he’s making, he can just order another one if he wishes. Heck, he can probably get one to bring with him everyday and keep that one at home.

If you’ve always had a passion for photography and you still don’t have the gear to pursue it, now is probably the best time to get one. Prices of digital SLRs are at an all-time low especially if you know where to look, and the competition is about to get even more heated as Samsung unveils their own SLR to battle it out with the big boys in the local scene. The GX-20 is a 14.6-megapixel SLR that supports Live View via its large 2.7-inch LCD display. It also has a built-in Optical Anti-shake function which is similar to how the Canon IS and Nikon VR lenses work except that this time it’s part of the camera and not the lens. Maintenance is kept at a minimum with its Dual Dust Removal function that keeps the image sensor clean at all times. One of the best and more unique qualities that I like about this SLR is that it’s also dust and water resistant which means no more worrying when the rain suddenly starts to pour. This is perfect for those who love the great outdoors. Unfortunately, due to Samsung's choice of the Pentax KAF2 mount, lens choice and availability is somewhat limited considering we are a Canon and Nikon dominated nation. But who’s to say in the next couple of years, right? Maybe if this becomes successful enough, then we might see a wider and more diverse camera industry flourish in the years to come. Price and availability is yet to be determined. Thanks to Fritzified for this bit of news.

Looks like Motorola is really trying to catch up with the rest of the pack in terms of integrating their handsets with the latest trends in modern technology and convenience. First, there was the announcement of the Mobile TV capable DH02, and now there’s the dual-SIM equipped MING A1800. However, there was no mention whether it’s active dual SIM which is now the current trend with the likes of MyPhone and Verizio making there presence felt in the local market and Samsung having of their own in the D880. The MING A1800 is compact Linux-based CDMA and Quad-band phone that comes with a 3-megapixel camera and the familiar touchscreen interface similar to its predecessor. Thanks to Boy Genius Reports for the heads-up and images on this new iteration of the MING, and hopefully, since it’s making its first appearance in China, it’ll make it our shores sooner than the US or European market.

It’s Earth month once again and looking at how we have progressed since last year, there's no denying that much still needs to be done for our planet and environment. Unfortunately, partly due to the frantic pace of modern life, we sometimes have difficulty fitting our role as stewards of the environment into our busy schedule, but now, there's a simple way of letting others know how much you truly appreciate our dear planet and do your share in helping preserve Mother Earth for future generations.

With the help of WWF, IUCN and Nokia, you can simply log on to Connect2earth and share your views and participate in the discussions that concern to the environment and our planet. Harnessing the power of the internet in connecting people, this is one simple way of making your presence felt in the in the effort to combat global warming. There is also a monthly contest wherein users will vote on who is deserving of winning a brand new Nokia mobile phone.

This is probably one of the few collaborations that address, even in a small way, the pressing issue of global warming and environmental awareness. Through the efforts of these organizations, every individual can have a voice in the global discussion on how to help our planet survive the next millennium or so.