Love it or hate it, the print magazine business is continuing to dwindle due to its collision with the increasingly popular smartphones. Last year, for example, magazine circulation in the US has reportedly dropped 9.5%, and the blame is put on smartphones.
Here's the explanation: According to the Alliance for Audited Media, people have stopped paying attention to the magazines on the impulse-buy racks at supermarkets. While waiting in line at checkout, instead of looking for what other stuff to put in their cart, customers often prefer to just take a look at their phones and do whatever the do with them. It seems the market watchers have identified this phenomenon as "mobile blinders," as it makes consumers "blind" to certain types of products.
Some popular magazines have seen quite a drop in sales last year. Cosmopolitan, for example, has recorded a drop of 18.5% in single copy sales. Other publications that have registered significant loss of circulation include People and Star.
Well, what can we say? Those publishers better start working on their digital versions, because that's where things are headed!
source: BusinessInsider
View the original article here
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
BlackBerry Z10 now available in the U.S. from Solavei, costs a grand
oh please, go to crackberry(dot)com, those bb fans will pay a grand for that crap. what can i say, they all on crack (your user name also show it...)
View the original article here
A fine selection of Camera apps for Android and iOS
Every once in a while, we're bringing you a fine selection of camera applications, because, you know what? The camera is one of the most used features of phone users! Plus, there's really a lot of cool stuff that developers are producing in this category, so there are always some good offerings to show you.
For this selection, we've tried to choose some apps that aren't among the most popular ones out there, but are still worth a try. After all, everyone knows Instagram and Snapseed, so what's the point in showing you those? Instead, why don't have some fun with these beautiful pieces of software!
View the original article here
For this selection, we've tried to choose some apps that aren't among the most popular ones out there, but are still worth a try. After all, everyone knows Instagram and Snapseed, so what's the point in showing you those? Instead, why don't have some fun with these beautiful pieces of software!
View the original article here
Purported Galaxy S IV benchmark results appear
And here it is - the Galaxy S IV has finally appeared in the online database of GLBenchmark. Of course, we shouldn't take this information too seriously yet, because it may easily be some other device, but for now the sources are pretty excited about these results, and even if there's the slightest chance of them being true, this means that it's impossible for us to ignore them.
The handset is shown as the Samsung SHV-E300S, but this shouldn't bother you, because it means that we're most probably looking at the South Korean version of the Galaxy S IV. Interestingly, the handset is also listed with a Qualcomm chipset MSM8960. Naturally, it's very unlikely for the international version of the GS IV to come with a Qualcomm processor, especially when Samsung recently announced the Exynos 5 Octa processor, which is more than up to the task. On the other hand, it wouldn't be exactly shocking if we see the South Korean version launch with a SoC by Qualcomm, so the credibility of the benchmark results seems to be intact for now.
And now, let's get to the real deal! According to these GLBenchmark results, the Galaxy S IV has scored 4672 Frames (41.3 Fps) in the Egypt HD C24Z16 - Offscreen (1080p) test, and 4450 Frames (39.4 Fps) in the Egypt HD C24Z16 - Onscreen test. These are some excellent results, but who knows, they may be even better on the international GS IV.
One of the best Android phones around, the Nexus 4, for example, scores 3803 Frames (33.7 Fps) in the offscreen test and 4977 Frames (44.0 Fps) in the onscreen test, which shows that it's not much slower, but still the GS IV should have some advantage.
The benchmark info also confirms the rumors that the Galaxy S IV will come with a resolution of 1080x1920 pixels, while software-wise the handset will run Android 4.2.1.
Check out the following table for some additional comparisons of the Galaxy S IV's GLBenchmark results:
source: GLBenchmark via Techkiddy
iOS 6.1.1 already gets the jailbreak treatment
Well that was quick. Remember back in the stone ages (read: a few years ago) when you had to wait days or even weeks to get your iPhone jailbroken again when Apple released even a minor software update? Sometimes that wait still applies now for bigger releases, but that’s luckily not the case for the latest small iOS patch. iOS 6.1.1, released only yesterday, already has an untethered jailbreak thanks to Evasi0n version 1.3.
The reason for the speedy release is Apple didn’t block the jailbreak this time. iOS 6.1.1 was rushed out to fix cellular performance issues that specifically affected iPhone 4S devices, and the release doesn’t do much else. Evasi0n tweeted last night that version 1.3 of the jailbreak supported iOS 6.1.1 on the iPhone 4S. The jailbreak update also fixes some bugs in previous versions as well.
To download the jailbreak for Windows, Mac, or Linux, visit evasi0n.com. The jailbreaking process is fairly straightforward once you download the software and follow the instructions. Evasi0n also has some FAQs and read-mes listed on its website that are worth checking out if you’re inexperienced at jailbreaking.
[via Gizmodo]
George has followed technology news for quite some time, but he only started writing about it a few years ago. He particularly enjoys covering Apple, but that doesn't stop him from reporting on a wide range of topics in the mobile area. When he's not reporting for IntoMobile, you can usually find George listening to a wide array of music, trying to be funny and sarcastic, eating, or voicing his opinions about all things tech on his personal blog, GT Daily.
Berlitz Launches New Language Quiz App
London, United Kingdom – Introduced this month in a choice of French, Italian or Spanish is the Berlitz Language Quiz 1.1 app – a fun and interactive way to learn a language. Available on the iPhone and iPad, the app comes with integrated audio from native speakers to help improve pronunciation, and a unique scoring system that adds a competitive edge, making it the perfect entertainment for relaxed evenings in or when travelling. Users can first test their knowledge with some sample Q&As that are free to download, before taking up the option to buy the rest of the Quiz for just $1.99 USD.
Choose a level – beginner, intermediate or advanced – or opt for a random selection of vocabulary, grammar and culture questions that take the user around parts of Europe and Latin America, according to the language selected. Answer formats vary between typing in the correct answer to multiple-choice, and the correct answer is easily accessible at the click of a button. With up to 300 questions per language to choose from, it is even possible to focus on certain topics or areas of interest. Finally, for perfectionists, there is the option to retake a quiz or any unanswered questions to ensure they remain at the top of their game.
For those who wish to try before they buy, there is a free taster quiz available to download. the app is suitable for users aged 12 years to adult.
Device Requirements:
* iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
* Requires iOS 4.3 or later
* Universal app optimized for display on all iOS devices
* 16.6 MB
Pricing and Availability:
Berlitz Language Quiz: French, Spanish, Italian 1.1 is free and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Education category. Additional quiz packs are priced at $1.99 USD.
The Berlitz story began in 1877 when Maximilian Berlitz devised his revolutionary method of language learning. Over 130 years later, Berlitz is a household name across the world, famed not only for language schools but also as a provider of best-selling language and travel guides. We work together with our sister brand, Insight Guides, to bring you the highest-quality, most up-to-date content possible. We draw on years of travel and language expertise to bring you a wide range of travel and language products, including travel guides, maps, phrase books, language-learning courses, dictionaries and kids’ language products. Whatever the language you want to learn or destination you want to visit, we are bound to offer the ideal product for you. At Berlitz we respond to how you want to access our content, so our guides will soon be available as e-books, too. Copyright (C) 2013 Berlitz. All Rights Reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, iPod and iPad are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries.
Intel-powered Asus FonePad caught in the wild prior to its official announcement
Asus likes combining words “Pad” and “Fone.” After making two “Padfones” they’re about to release their first “FonePad.” However, instead of using “standard” ARM-based chips, this device will rock an Intel-made Atom processor.
It is said that soon-to-be-launched device will come with a 7-inch tablet with 1280×800 pixels resolution. The processor built inside will be clocked at 1.2GHz, while the rest of the specs will include a 3-megapixel rear camera, 1.2-megapixel front-facing one, 1GB of RAM, 8/16/32 GB of built-in storage, microSD memory card slot and a 4,270mAh battery. Size wise, the FonePad will measure 196.6×120.1×10.4 mm and have a weight of 340 grams.
In other words, we’re talking about a low-to-mid end device which will hopefully be announced at Mobile World Congress, when we hope to get all the details and spend some short (but quality) hands-on time with it. Stay tuned…
[Via: Tablet.bg, UnwiredView]
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
View the original article here
It is said that soon-to-be-launched device will come with a 7-inch tablet with 1280×800 pixels resolution. The processor built inside will be clocked at 1.2GHz, while the rest of the specs will include a 3-megapixel rear camera, 1.2-megapixel front-facing one, 1GB of RAM, 8/16/32 GB of built-in storage, microSD memory card slot and a 4,270mAh battery. Size wise, the FonePad will measure 196.6×120.1×10.4 mm and have a weight of 340 grams.
In other words, we’re talking about a low-to-mid end device which will hopefully be announced at Mobile World Congress, when we hope to get all the details and spend some short (but quality) hands-on time with it. Stay tuned…
[Via: Tablet.bg, UnwiredView]
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
View the original article here
Nokia Asha 310 is the company’s first dual-SIM phone with Wi-Fi connectivity
Nokia announced a new member of its Asha family of affordable phone – Asha 310. What makes this device unique is the fact that it’s the company’s first phone that offers both Dual-SIM and Wi-Fi together. To make for an even better proposition, one of the SIM cards supports hot-swapping, meaning you’ll be able to insert a new card without turning off the phone. Plus, with the included SIM manager, you can assign unique profiles for up to five SIM cards and define which SIM card will be used for calling, texting or for using Internet data.
In addition, the Nokia Asha 310 also comes with a 3-inch WQVGA screen, Bluetooth 3.0, 2-megapixel camera, EDGE data (plus Wi-Fi), microSD memory card slot (with 2 or 4 GB card coming inside the box), and the battery that will keep the phone running for up to 17 hours in talk or 25 days in standby mode.
When it comes to pre-loaded software, there’s a web browser, email client, social networking apps (Facebook, Twitter and eBuddy), plus many other apps you can download from the Nokia Store, including 40 EA games which are offered for free.
The Nokia Asha 310 will be available later this quarter in black, white and gold in Asia, India, the Middle East, Africa and Brazil. Without local taxes or any operator subsidies, it will cost around $102.
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
The first press shot of the HTC One aka M7 is here
We’re just a week away from the official announcement of the HTC One aka M7 and we’re glad we caught the first press image before the big day. Our source, EVleaks, is pretty credible, having leaked many phones in the past.
As you can see for yourself, the screen is surrounded by two speakers, making for a stereo sound experience while watching a video in a landscape mode. There are 3 capacitive buttons under the screen – back, “HTC” and home. Not sure what the second button stands for, though.
Also on the front of the device are two sensors (proximity and ambient light) as well as the front facing camera. All this is packed in a metallic body to make for a premium look and feel. Yup, we can’t wait to try it out.
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
View the original article here
As you can see for yourself, the screen is surrounded by two speakers, making for a stereo sound experience while watching a video in a landscape mode. There are 3 capacitive buttons under the screen – back, “HTC” and home. Not sure what the second button stands for, though.
Also on the front of the device are two sensors (proximity and ambient light) as well as the front facing camera. All this is packed in a metallic body to make for a premium look and feel. Yup, we can’t wait to try it out.
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
View the original article here
LG to unveil second generation of Optimus L3, L5 and L7 smartphones
We’ve told you that LG will be unveiling new phones at Mobile World Congress, but apparently that may not include the rumored F-series. Instead, the Korean company may launch a second generation of its affordable L-series devices, including the new L3, L5 and L7. Here’s what we’ve heard:
LG Optimus L3 II (model number E430) will have a 3.2-inch screen and 5-megapixel camera.LG Optimus L5 II (E455) – 4-inch WVGA (480×800 pixels) screen, 1GHz single-core CPU + PowerVR SGX531 GPU, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean.LG Optimus L7 II (P715) – 4.3-inch WVGA (480×800 pixels) screen, Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8225 1GHz dual-core CPU + Adreno 203 GPU, 768MB of RAM, 8-megapixel camera, 2,460mAh battery, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean.
In addition, it is said that the L5 II and L7 II will be available in dual-SIM versions… We’ll let you know when we get more information on this. Stay tuned…
UPDATE: In the meantime, LG issued a press release to confirm the news.
[Via: TuttoAndroid]
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
View the original article here
LG Optimus L3 II (model number E430) will have a 3.2-inch screen and 5-megapixel camera.LG Optimus L5 II (E455) – 4-inch WVGA (480×800 pixels) screen, 1GHz single-core CPU + PowerVR SGX531 GPU, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean.LG Optimus L7 II (P715) – 4.3-inch WVGA (480×800 pixels) screen, Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8225 1GHz dual-core CPU + Adreno 203 GPU, 768MB of RAM, 8-megapixel camera, 2,460mAh battery, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean.
In addition, it is said that the L5 II and L7 II will be available in dual-SIM versions… We’ll let you know when we get more information on this. Stay tuned…
UPDATE: In the meantime, LG issued a press release to confirm the news.
[Via: TuttoAndroid]
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
View the original article here
Leaked photo shows Android 4.2.2 update rolling out to Nexus devices
An image showing the Android 4.2.2 update has surfaced, thanks to a user on Reddit. We’ve known for sometime now that Google was testing the update, and that it would be hitting Nexus devices in mid-February. The new software supposedly addresses a pesky Bluetooth streaming issue with other pressing matters, such as security enhancements, device performance, minor cosmetic changes and more bug fixes.
Of course, to no ones surprise, Android 4.2.2 looks to be rolling out to carrier-unlocked Galaxy Nexus and Nexus 4 smartphones, as well as the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 tablets.
Let us know if you’re seeing the update on your Nexus.
[via Android Police]
Charles West is a self-described music snob and sports fanatic who's a contributor to IntoMobile. In addition he also spends his time managing his own site The Trendaholic. You can catch him on Twitter @TheTrendaholic and Google+
Vertu Ti: A $10,000 Android phone that runs ICS, lacks 4G support
Vertu, the company known for its lavish and ridiculously expensive phones, has announced its first Android phone named the Vertu Ti. The Ti is a luxury phone made up of top-notch materials that give the build quality a pristine touch and feel, as the chassis is constructed out of titanium, and the screen is fashioned from sapphire crystal. Vertu is expecting users to splurge $10,000 for the Ti.
Under the hood brings some more than adequate features such as an unnamed 1.7GHz dual-core processor as the engine, an 8MP rear camera with 1080p video recording, as well as a 1.3MP front-facing camera, a 3.7-inch WVGA screen, 64GB of storage and pentaband DC-HSDPA connectivity. What’s unimpressive about the phone is the year-old skinned Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich powering the software side of things. The Vertu Ti also carries a tiny 1,250mAh battery, as well as sound “punctuated by the London Symphony Orchestra.”
Perhaps the biggest advantage with buying a handset from Vertu is getting its concierge call service to help out with things like local advice and restaurant booking. If you think about it, it’s the old-fashioned version of Google Now.
It doesn’t take much for us to know that 10 grand for a phone that doesn’t run the latest Android operating system, nor is capable of 4G LTE connectivity is a bit over the top. But if you’re rich and have nothing to do with your money besides blow it on frivolous stuff like this, then by all means cop it.
[Vertu; via HuffPost]
Charles West is a self-described music snob and sports fanatic who's a contributor to IntoMobile. In addition he also spends his time managing his own site The Trendaholic. You can catch him on Twitter @TheTrendaholic and Google+
HTC engineers write an angry letter to the CEO
We all know HTC has seen better days. In fact, Samsung is pretty much eating the Taiwanese company’s lunch as we speak and HTC had to do something about it. Their move was to cut R&D costs, but not in the way you would think. Instead of laying off people, they required them to work longer hours without being paid for overtime.
So engineers on their end decided to do something about it, sending out an entry letter to the CEO Peter Chou. Their demands are reasonable as they can’t be working for 12 hours without being paid extra forever. Perhaps the upcoming M7 launch will change HTC’s fortune, perhaps not. The way I see it, a lot depends on Samsung and its upcoming Galaxy S IV smartphone. If the Korean company manages to impress us yet again, HTC is in big trouble.
In any case, we like to see HTC (and all other) engineers getting a decent pay for the hard work they put it…
[Via: Unwired View]
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
This week @ Appscovery
During the last 7 days developers submitted over a dozen new apps at our mobile app portal, Appscovery. Here are the ones we think are worth mentioning:
As usual, you can get information about these (and some other) apps, or if you’re a developer – submit your own app, from here.
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
LG makes official 5.5-inch 1080p display for Korean Optimus G Pro
LG today confirmed the rumors that the Korean Optimus G Pro will indeed sport a 5.5-inch 1080p display. This after speculation about the device’s screen size and specs for the South Korean version had swirled all over the Internet for weeks, with official specs of the Optimus G Pro being outed only a few days ago.
The Korean manufacturer answered the rumors by simply revealing the G Pro on its promotional site. However, the only thing known at the moment is the phone’s screen size and resolution, so we’ll have to be patient and wait for LG to unveil the other specs and features. We should know more very soon because the Optimus G Pro is expected to be announced at MWC this year, and will go up against the likes of the Sony Xperia Z, HTC M7 and the Galaxy S4. We’ll be there to see it first hand.
The G Pro was recently announced in Japan, with a 5-inch Full HD display and a 3,000 mAh battery, but the 5.5-inch model is expected to have a little heftier 3,140 mAh battery. Other rumored specs include a 13 Megapixel rear camera, 2GB RAM and quad-core 1.7GHz Snapdragon processor to name a few.
[via Android Central]
Charles West is a self-described music snob and sports fanatic who's a contributor to IntoMobile. In addition he also spends his time managing his own site The Trendaholic. You can catch him on Twitter @TheTrendaholic and Google+
Verizon announces upcoming HTC DROID DNA update
Verizon Wireless and HTC will soon start rolling out a new update for the DROID DNA. Software version 2.04.605.2 710RD will include baseband 1.01.01.0110, and a number of tweaks, such as:
Ability to load videos on HuluPlusImprovements to Hotspot connectivityImprovements to Audio Quality for wired headsets and earpiecesImproved Bluetooth connectivity and volume level for specific modelsEnhanced reliability and stability of the Contacts ListImproved Wi-Fi ConnectivityImprovements to default browser for zoomingIncoming messages display with the correct timestampEnhanced Recent Apps functionalityNo word on the date but since Verizon said “coming soon” we expect it in the next few days or weeks…
Dusan has been using smartphones since their introduction and is now following the latest trends in the industry. The "convergence" is what he's most excited about, and writing about it is the next logical thing to do. He thinks that using a smartphone is what everyone who cares about their time should do. In addition to his interests in mobile phones, Dusan also loves to experiment with the latest web and mobile 2.0 services. The idea of accessing and managing your information from any device no matter where you are simply amazes him. Whether it's an online to-do list, note taking service or a video sharing social network, he's there to try it out. He admits though, he's still searching for the ultimate web-based organizational tool, which "sings" perfectly with the mobile PIM application. Dusan used to run SymbianWatch.com which later became part of IntoMobile. He lives in Serbia, South-East Europe, from where he edits the site on a daily basis.
Oakland Raiders Hack NFL Blackout Rules In Real Life By Shrinking Stadium
I've made it no secret that I think sports leagues need to better embrace getting their product out to as many viewers as possible. Internet streaming could be a boon to growing fanbases if the leagues weren't so busy locking their own streams up and trying to shut everyone else down. And the real dingleberry on top of the crap sundae is that even if you buy one of the major sports leagues' streaming packages, you get smacked with blackout rules every time you want to watch your home team. Still, as if that weren't enough, some leagues extend blackout rules to broadcast television, setting abitrary threshholds for stadium attendance or else no TV broadcast. Can you imagine anything stupider? Particularly for the NFL, a league whose sport is flatout better experienced on television, where fans can check on their fantasy teams while they take in commercials, a wonderful revenue stream for the league and broadcast partners alike?
In the case of the NFL, the rule is that teams have to have 85% of their capacity sold by the Thursday before a game to keep the TV blackout rule from being triggered. Well, the Oakland Raiders, one team who has more trouble than most getting fans into the stands (because they're horrible), has a plan to get around the NFL blackout rules. This amazing plan is...covering up a bunch of the seats in O.co Coliseum to reduce capacity and thereby increase the percentage of filled seats for their games.
CEO Amy Trask announced yesterday that the Raiders will be eliminating nearly 10,000 seats for next season, mostly by covering up Mount Davis with a tarp. Mount Davis is the nickname given to the tier of seats installed in a 1996 renovation, ruining the backdrop view of the Oakland hills that were a staple at A's games. They're steep (nearly to the point of being unsafe) and the upper reaches are comically distant from the action. And they've gone mostly empty, being tarped off for baseball since 2006.For those of you who haven't followed much in the way of sports business in the past, this is certifiably insane. That said, the insanity is on the part of the NFL, not the Raiders, who are only trying to get creative in routing around the restrictive blackout policy. They clearly understand that getting their games on TV is the best way to build their fanbase, which will result in more attendance at the stadium. The NFL, however, appears to think that nixing the broadcast a few days before the game will drive more attendance at the gates. This logic fails what I like to call "The Blackhawk Effect" (See, Mike? I can coin terms too!), where once the local blackouts of Chicago Blackhawks games was lifted, the previously unattended games were suddenly filled to capacity.
What the NFL should be encouraging teams to do is go the other direction and open up even more ways for fans to view the games, whether by attending, watching on TV, or streaming. Instead, they're forcing their member teams like the Raiders to tarp over part of their seating capacity just to avoid arbitrary blackout restrictions. How less fan-friendly could a league get?
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If you liked this post, you may also be interested in...Nokia unveils dual-SIM Asha 310
Written by: Samantha Tomaszczyk Posted on: 12 February 2013. Tags: Asha 310, dual-SIM, new Nokia, Nokia, WiFi
The Asha 310 is the first Nokia handset to have both dual SIM capabilities and WiFi
Nokia has unveiled a new low-end smartphone as part of its Asha range.
The Nokia Asha 310 allows users to easily swap between two SIM cards without switching it off, to keep work and personal content separate.
The phone is able to store unique profiles for up to five SIM cards.
It comes pre-loaded with Nokia Xpress Browser, which Nokia claim compresses internet data by up to 90 per cent.
Nokia’s executive vice president for mobiles Timo Toikkanen said: “The Nokia Asha 310 is the first-ever Nokia smartphone to offer both Easy Swap Dual SIM and Wi-Fi in the same device.
“It gives consumers the best of both worlds, allowing them to separate work and play, or speak with friends on other mobile networks more affordably.”
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Written by: Paul Withers Posted on: 12 February 2013. Tags: Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure, O2, Vodafone
Operator says reports that customers could be without service for up to eight hours are “misleading”
O2 has backtracked on claims its staff made at a distributor conference last month that customers would face outages as it begins its network share agreement with Vodafone.
At the ‘Avenir Telecom 2013: The Year Ahead’ event on January 16 in Burton-on-Trent, the operator said its customers may face up to eight hours of service disruption as the first clusters of the new network are switched on.
O2 had told dealers customers would receive a text message to inform them of the outage.
A document was also sent to dealers on behalf of network-share JV firm Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure, warning of possible disruption to the network.
It informed them coverage capacity might be reduced on the day of a site upgrade while work is carried out and that customers might also experience dropped calls during the transition period, but that this would only affect them if they were on the move.
However, O2 said in response to the article: “Reports that our customers will be out of service for eight hours at a time are misleading. We are conducting our upgrades on a site-by-site basis, which means that in that majority of cases a neighbouring site will provide sufficient coverage to support customers in the area.
“As ever, our first priority when undertaking any network maintenance is to keep the customer impact to an absolute minimum. We list all our planned network maintenance on our online Network Checker, which can be found at status.o2.co.uk.”
O2 also dismissed comments made by its staff that spectrum could be available for the operator to go live with a 4G network by July.
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Wireless
by Glyn Moody
Tue, Feb 12th 2013 3:34amThe Spratly Islands are some 750 reefs, atolls and islands in the South China Sea that are claimed variously by Brunei, the People's Republic of China, the Republic of China (Taiwan), Malaysia... Filed Under:
3g, china, landgrab, mobile towers, spratly islands, vietnam, wireless
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The Spratly Islands are some 750 reefs, atolls and islands in the South China Sea that are claimed variously by Brunei, the People's Republic of China, the Republic of China (Taiwan), Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. That's largely because of the rich fishing grounds that surround them, and the possibility of significant oil and gas reserves nearby.
In order to reinforce those claims, most of the countries listed above have stationed a few military personnel on a few of the larger islands. Recently, China has come up with a novel way of bolstering its position:
In the ongoing dispute over the Spratly Islands claimed by China and Vietnam, the latest development is that China is opening up 3G services on the islands, not only to Chinese soldiers but also for the country's fishermen.As the Tech In Asia article quoted above explains:
Chinese soldiers and fishermen will now be able to text message, call, and chat online with family back home over the new 3G network. This upgrade to 3G from regular cellular coverage (started in 2011) and the recent 3G network in the disputed Paracel Islands in July 2012 signals a more permanent Chinese presence on the rocky outposts.What's interesting here is how this tighter integration with the domestic network is used symbolically to underline that the various islands are -- in China's view -- part of its territory. It can be thought of as the 21st-century equivalent of building roads in the Roman Empire, or laying down railway tracks in the American West.
Follow me @glynmoody on Twitter or identi.ca, and on Google+
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If you liked this post, you may also be interested in...Jealous Of Copyright Trolls, Entertainment Industry Looks To Move Three Strikes From 'Disconnect' To 'Fines'
Copyright
by Mike Masnick
Tue, Feb 12th 2013 7:45amWe were just talking about how three strikes hasn't done anything to actually increase sales. Instead, as many, many people predicted, sales have continued to decline. Of course, perhaps... Filed Under:
copyright, copyright trolls, education, fines, france, hadopi, three strikes
Permalink.
We were just talking about how three strikes hasn't done anything to actually increase sales. Instead, as many, many people predicted, sales have continued to decline. Of course, perhaps treating your biggest fans as criminals is not a particularly wise strategy. But, then again, the big entertainment legacy players aren't exactly known for wise or thoughtful strategies.
With France, the biggest supporters of a "three strikes (accusations) and we kick you off the internet" plan facing pushback from the government, it appears that the industry folks have hit on their latest ridiculous strategy. Rather than kick people off the internet, why not take a page from copyright trolls, and force them to cough up money. Yes, indeed, it appears that the entertainment industry is looking to turn "piracy" into a "business model" by forcing people they accuse (not convict) of infringement to pay up in large masses. Except, rather than using shady dealings via questionable court procedures, they're just hoping to roll it into existing three strikes plans:
In other words, if kicking people off the internet isn't getting them to give us more money... how about we skip that middle step and just force them to give us money. It is, clearly, taking a page straight out of the copyright trolling handbook.UPFI, (Union of Independent Phonographic Producers), said that it agreed with the opinion of French music rights group SACEM that a disconnection regime should be replaced with warnings along with fines of 140 euros.
PCInpact contacted Jerome Roger, Director General of UPFI, who confirmed the group is indeed in favor of such fines.
This leaning towards cash penalties is also endorsed by Warner Music President Thierry Chassagne. In recent comments Chassange suggested that not enough punishments have been handed out under Hadopi and that a deterrent is necessary.
According to French publication Numerama, this new direction is basically a done deal in France. And, of course, once it shows up there, expect the same sort of things to start popping up around the globe quickly. The industry doesn't spring stuff like this in just one place alone. There's a global strategy behind it.
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If you liked this post, you may also be interested in...Ingram set to rebrand BrightPoint as Ingram Micro Mobility
Written by: Michael Garwood Posted on: 11 February 2013. Tags: Brightpoint, Ingram Micro, Ingram Micro Mobility, Mobile World Congress, Robert Laikin
Rebrand to be announced at Mobile World Congress and will complete the integration of the two firms
BrightPoint will be rebranded as Ingram Micro Mobility this month.
Mobile News has learned the new branding will be unveiled at this year’s Mobile World Congress event in Barcelona.
The move comes four months after the IT giant acquired the mobile distributor and logistics provider for $840 million (£532 million) in its biggest deal so far.
The rebrand will complete the integration of the two firms, which have been undergoing an internal restructure.
BrightPoint was founded by Robert Laikin in the US in 1989 and has since expanded its operation to 75 countries globally. It handled more than 112 million devices in 2011, worth around $16 billion (£10 billion).
BrightPoint refused to comment on the story.
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Written by: Chris Donkin Posted on: 12 February 2013. Tags: Apple, iPhone 4S, Vodafone
Operator advises iPhone 4S customers to download new version of the iOS software
Vodafone has sent a text to customers with an iPhone 4S telling them to download the new iOS 6.1 update, following yesterday’s warning against the new software.
The operator sent customers a text yesterday warning them about a problem with maintaining a 3G connection using the new OS which effected calls, texts and internet usage.
This afternoon Vodafone confirmed the bug has now been fixed and advised customers to download the update.
The text read: “Apple has fixed 3G performance with its iPhone 4S software please switch your phone off and on then download and install iOS 6.1.1.”
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MPC Westcliff buy takes acquisitions to seven in the past 12 months and raises Vodafone base to 55,000 connections
Olive Communications has completed the acquisition of B2B and consumer dealer Mobile Phone Centre (MPC) in Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex – adding 3,500 Vodafone connections.
Around 30 per cent of the acquired base is consumer, but it will continue to be managed by Olive’s in-house account management team dealing with one to 10 connections.
The purchase takes Vodafone Platinum partner Olive’s total base to above 70,000, of which around 55,000 are connected on Vodafone.
It takes the number of Olive’s acquisitions (a mix of base and full ownership) to seven in the past year, it having sealed deals with MPC London, MPC Orpington, Connection 365, Pioneer, Parkway Telecom and Airwaves.
The deal with MPC, which is for an undisclosed fee, has seen Olive take full ownership of the business, which includes a retail store.
Olive chairman Mark Geraghty (pictured) told Mobile News the firm was in the process of transferring the customer base across to its own.
The store, plus MPC’s branding, will remain for the time being.
MPC Westcliff was run for 15 years by Julia Everns, who is now exiting the industry.
Geraghty also confirmed he is in the “closing stages” of agreeing to more dealer and base acquisitions, but he refused to provide further details.
Geraghty said: “It’s a good deal for us and continues our aggressive acquisition and growth strategy. We our continuing the momentum we had in 2012.
“We’ve got another couple of acquisitions going through as we speak.”
The deal was completed in the same week Olive moved to new larger premises in High Wycombe and former Azzurri Communications sales director Martin Flick began his role as MD of the firm.
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Written by: Samantha Tomaszczyk Posted on: 11 February 2013. Tags: Phones 4U, Richard Baxendale, Rod Millar, supply chain, Tech Data Europe, Tech Data Mobile
Tech Data Mobile will handle all warehousing, web and telesales activities for Phones 4U in the UK and Ireland
Phones 4U has appointed Tech Data Mobile to manage its end-to-end supply chain operations in the UK and Ireland.
From May, the distributor will operate all warehousing, forward and reverse logistics activities for the retailer’s 680 stores.
It will also handle Phones 4U’s web and telesales operations.
Tech Data Mobile’s vice president for services Richard Baxendale said the contract was a “massive vote of confidence” in its ability to meet the demanding supply requirements of a major retailer.
“This is another great win for Tech Data Mobile’s services business in Europe, adding to a number of important contracts that we have secured over the past 12 months and underlining the strength of our performance in the services sector,” Baxendale said.
President Rod Millar called the appointment a “major milestone” in the history of Tech Data Mobile.
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