Phones Limited

Concept video shows iPhone 6 sporting waterproof casing and wireless charging

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:30:08 +0000

A concept video by designers Uygar Kaya and Ran Avni has surfaced, showing the iPhone 6 sporting a waterproof casing and wireless charging.

Cult of Mac reports, “With WWDC less than a month away, we’ve seen a ton of designers come out with their visions for what iOS 7 might look like, but the next iPhone has been ignored.

“Concept designers Uygar Kaya and Ran Avni have a new video for the iPhone 6 that gives it a slimmer profile, waterproof coating, wireless charging, a notification LED, and more. It’s one of the sleekest iPhone 6 concepts we’ve seen yet, but would Apple actually add those features? Guess we’ll have to wait till 2014 to find out.”

The concept design looks promising, but the question is will Apple include these features on the iPhone 6. Today’s Android smartphones already have the features mentioned above. Handsets such as Google Nexus 4 support Qi wireless chargers. The Sony XPERIA Z is waterproof. So if the iPhone 6, does sport these features it’s about time.

Android currently dominates the smartphone market. If Apple wants to get ahead of the competition, it would have to kick innovation up a notch.

Do you wish the iPhone 6 would sport a waterproof casing and wireless charging? Share your thoughts through a comment on our Facebook page.

‘Samsung Galaxy S4 Mega’ Hinted In Description Of Samsung WatchON Description

Chris Westley — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:16:03 +0000

Over the last few weeks, we have seen plenty of rumours that there will be the number of new versions of the Samsung Galaxy S4 released. So far, we have heard that there is a Galaxy S4 Mini, the Galaxy S4 Active, which is a waterproof version, and a camera orientated model called the Galaxy S4 Zoom on the way. More recently, another edition of the Galaxy S4 was revealed, which will be a Google edition which runs the stock Android interface, which will be exclusive to the US market.

Android Authority has recently reported that yet another version may be launched. The website reports that the recently updated Samsung WatchON app states in its description that it now supports the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active, Galaxy S4 Mini and the Galaxy S4 Mega.

The latter is a phone which until now we have not heard about. Judging by its name, we can only assume that it will have many is the same features of the Galaxy S4, but with a larger touchscreen.

Of course, Samsung recently launched two new devices called the Galaxy Mega 5.8 and the Galaxy Mega 6.3, with their titles referring to the size of their touch screens. They are essentially mid range devices, and it was recently revealed that the phones may not be released in some European markets. Therefore, it is entirely possible that the Galaxy S4 Mega will be an alternative option for these markets. Visit our website for the best Samsung Galaxy S4 contract offers and Samsung Galaxy S3 deals.

Along with the Galaxy Mega devices, Samsung also has a number of other larger screened Android devices available, such as its popular Galaxy Note phablet series, but it looks like these may soon be joined by the larger version of the Galaxy S4.

Do you think the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mega will be larger version of the Galaxy S4? Do you think there is room on the market for such a device? Let us know what you think in the comments section.

Samsung Achevies 95% Of All Android Profits Combined In Q1

Chris Westley — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:04:21 +0000

There are two mobile operating systems which account for the vast majority of market share. These are of course iOS, which is Apple’s exclusive platform for its mobile touchscreen devices, and the Google owned Android OS. There is a handful of are other operating systems which are currently increasing in popularity, such as Microsoft’s Windows Phone OS, but it still has a long way to go before it reaches the level of popularity as iOS or Android.

Of course, millions of people use iOS on a daily basis, as it is used on a number of Apple’s wildly popular product lines, including iPod Touches, iPads, and of course iPhones. However, because this is exclusive to Apple’s devices, it does not have as big a market share as Android. Because the Google owned operating system is an open source software, virtually any manufacturer can choose to use it on their devices. A number of high profile manufacturers use it on smartphones and tablets, such as HTC, Sony and Samsung. The latter has a reputation for being the biggest mobile phone manufacturer in the world. Samsung currently dominates when it comes to the high-end market thanks to its flagship Galaxy S4, as well as the phablet niche with its Galaxy Note products, as well as a large number of more affordable Android devices, which sell by the millions in emerging and established markets around the world.

Android Authority has recently reported that during Q1, 95% of all profits made by manufacturers which utilise Android combined, were earned by Samsung. Considering the fact that devices like the HTC One and Sony Xperia Z have already sold many millions of units this year, it goes to show just how popular Samsung’s Android smartphones are. Visit us at PhonesLimited to compare the cheapest Samsung Galaxy S3 deals and best Samsung Galaxy Note 2 prices.

Of course, Samsung recently launched its latest flagship Android phone, the Galaxy S4 which has already sold several million units. However, these were not taken into account when these figures were compiled, as it was released after the first 3 month period of the year. Therefore, Samsung’s popular Galaxy S3 and Galaxy Note 2 for example, will have accounted for a large percentage of these profits.

Samsung has forecast sales of 80 million Galaxy S4 handsets this year, so it looks like its market share is safe for now.

Source says iOS 7 to get Vimeo and Flickr integration

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 16:00:58 +0000

Wondering what iOS 7 has in store for your iPhone or iPad? According to a source, the next version of iOS will get Vimeo and Flickr integration.

9to5Mac reports, “In the upcoming overhaul of its iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch operating system, iOS 7, Apple plans to include an increased presence of third-party social networks, including Flickr and Vimeo, according to a person familiar with the software. Since the new software is yet to be even officially announced, there is a very real possibility that any feature in testing could be removed prior to the announcement, this person said (much like Facebook integration was removed from iOS 4).”

The site adds, “Both Flickr and Vimeo will now also be integrated deeply into the new operating system, so users will be able to sign into the respective networks via iOS 7′s built-in Settings application. Like with iOS’s Facebook and Twitter ties, Apple customers will be able to log-in one time into each social network and have full sharing access.

“With Flickr integration, iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch customers will have the ability to share photos stored and/or taken on their devices to Flickr with a single tap from the system-wide share menu. Flickr has been integrated into the paid iPhoto iOS App Store app and OS X Mountain Lion since 2012, but iOS 7 will represent the first time in which the photo sharing service has been integrated deeply into the entire iOS operating system.

“It is likely, that just like with Facebook and Twitter, the new iOS integration for Flickr will allow for instant log-in to Flickr via various App Store apps. For example, the Instagram application currently offers users the ability to share Instagram photos to Flickr. However, users currently must login manually to Flickr. The iOS 7 changes could avoid users needing to sign in for each individual Flickr-connected app.”

Do you believe iOS 7 will get Flickr and Vimeo integration? Share your thoughts through a comment on our Facebook page.

Android Jellybean Update Now Available For The Samsung Galaxy S3

Chris Westley — Wed, 22 May 2013 15:53:07 +0000

The recent launch of Samsung Galaxy S4 means that the Galaxy S3 has now been replaced as the South Korean manufacturer’s latest flagship Android phone. However, the Galaxy S3 remains one of the biggest selling smartphone models in recent years, and has broken a number of sales records for Samsung since it was launched back in May 2012.

Obviously, Samsung is currently focusing much of its attention and resources on the Galaxy S4, but it appears that the company has not forgotten about the millions of Galaxy S3 users. Recently, uSwitch has reported that a test version of the Android 4.2.2 Jellybean OS can be downloaded on to the Galaxy S3 using the Samsung Kies software, ahead of its widespread rollout which is due to take place next month.

The update will of course bring the latest version of the Android operating system to the phone, but also several new features showcased on the Galaxy S4. Among the improvements to the phone are a number of aesthetic enhancements, along with additional customization features and settings menus, improvements to the S-Voice application, customizable lock screen widgets and new settings on the auto brightness feature. Visit us at PhonesLimited to compare Samsung Galaxy S3 contracts and find the cheapest Samsung Galaxy S4 deals.

It appears that several of the features showcased on the Galaxy S4 will remain exclusive to the new flagship model for now. However, uSwitch also reports that some may be rolled out to the Galaxy S3 and the next version of Android is launched, which is believed to go by the name of Android Key Lime Pie, and is tipped to be released towards the end of the year.

Despite being replaced by the Galaxy S4 as Samsung’s new flagship, the Galaxy S3 remains one of the most advanced smartphone models out there. Among its key features are a 1.4 GHz quad-core processor, microSD slot, advanced 8 megapixel camera and a 4.8 inch super AMOLED display.

If you have already downloaded the update onto your Samsung Galaxy S3, let us know what you think of the improvements in the comments section.

Consumer website names Samsung Galaxy S4 ‘top-rated new smartphone’

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 15:41:59 +0000

Consumer website Consumer Reports has named the Samsung Galaxy S4 as its “top-rated new smartphone.”

The site announces, “The Samsung Galaxy S 4, one of the most advanced Android smart phones ever, is our new top-rated smart phone. The S4 delivered top-notch performance in the most critical areas of our tests, including the camera.

“It dethrones the LG Optimus G, which occupied the top spot in our Ratings for several months.”

Why does the site think the Galaxy S4 is its new top-rated smartphone? There are a number of reasons. According to the site, “The S4 has an excellent 5-inch, high-definition (1080p) touch-screen display, as well as oodles of gesture- and sensor-based tools for accessing and sharing content you create and capture on your phone. The display is sensitive enough to use with gloves on—handy during cold weather.

“A true multi-tasker, the S4 lets you run two apps simultaneously in a split-screen view. For instance, you can watch a video while checking e-mail, or you can use Google Maps and Messaging simultaneously. We did find that battery life and voice quality varied slightly between cell carriers, as with the LG Optimus G.

“Couch potatoes should enjoy the Galaxy S 4′s built-in IR blaster, which can be programmed to control HDTVs and set-top boxes (and even initiate DVR recordings) from a host of different makers. It also shows you local cable listings, program details, and reminders geared to your preferences.”

Do you agree with Consumer Reports when it says the Samsung Galaxy S4 is the top-rated new smartphone? Let us know what you think through a comment on our Facebook page.

Wireless charger for Samsung Galaxy S4 and Google Nexus 4 coming soon

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 15:05:05 +0000

A Qi wireless charging stand will be available for the Samsung Galaxy S4 as well as the Google Nexus 4.

Mobilefun has unveiled the wireless charger on their website. The online retailer says, “Today we’re happy to unveil a wireless charging solution for two of the biggest Android phones on the market: the Samsung Galaxy S4 and the Google Nexus 4.”

Speaking about the wireless charging stand, Mobilefun says, “The star of the show is our Qi Wireless Charging Pad and Stand. It’s a simple, no-nonsense wireless charger that’s available at the same price as our wired charging stands. That’s rare for wireless chargers, which are typically much more expensive than the wired alternative.

“Despite the Qi Wireless Charging Pad’s low price, it’s pretty functional. As well as charging your phone at a good rate, it’ll also serve as a useful desk stand. Simply flip up the stand to prop up your phone, then close it when you’re packing it away. The stand supports both landscape or portrait orientations, so you can read an incoming email as easily as you can watch a movie.”

Speaking about setting up the Nexus 4 for the wireless charger, the retailer says, “If you’ve got the Nexus 4, then you can use the Qi Wireless Charging Pad and Stand right out of the box – the Nexus 4 has wireless charging technology built in.”

Speaking about the Samsung Galaxy S4, MobileFun says, “If you’ve got a Samsung Galaxy S4, there’s a bit of setup involved. You’ll need to pick up our Qi Samsung Galaxy S4 Wireless Charging Cover, which replaces the original battery cover.”

The Qi wireless charging stand for the Samsung Galaxy S4 and Google Nexus 4 is now available for pre-order from MobileFun.

Will you pre-order a Qi wireless charging stand for your Samsung Galaxy S4 or Google Nexus 4 from Mobilefun? Let us know through a comment on our Facebook page.

T-Mobile Germany Inventory System Lists 32GB Version Of The Nokia Lumia 925

Chris Westley — Wed, 22 May 2013 14:21:49 +0000

The Nokia Lumia 920 was launched back in November 2012, and has remained one of the most popular smartphone models on the market, and no doubt most impressive offerings to date from the Finnish manufacturer. While the phone remains one of the most popular choices on the market, the manufacturer has recently launched a couple of new high-end devices.

One of these is the recently announced Nokia Lumia 925. The phone was previously rumoured to be called the Nokia Catwalk and builds on the format of the Lumia 920. The phone runs Microsoft’s Windows Phone 8 operating system, as well as a number of other impressive features such as a 4.5 inch PureMotion HD+ ClearBlack display, 1.5 GHz dual-core processor, and an 8 megapixel camera which boasts Carl Zeiss optics, high definition video capture and PureView technology.

The device packs 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage capacity. Unfortunately, the phone does not utilise a microSD slot for expandable storage, which is generally the case with phones with this operating system. Luckily, it appears that another version of the phone will be launched with double the amount of storage capacity. Phones Review reports that the 32 GB model of the Nokia Lumia 925 has appeared on the inventory system of T-Mobile Germany. Of course, given the limited storage capacity of the 16 GB model coupled with its lack of a microSD slot for we can expect the 32 GB model to be more desirable. Visit us at PhonesLimited for the cheapest Nokia Lumia 925 deals and best Nokia Lumia 920 offers.

It is expected that the Lumia 925 will first be launched in European markets in the UK, Italy, Spain and Germany as well as China, with the US to follow shortly afterwards. White, black and grey colour options of the phone are set to be released. While it offers a similar appearance to the Lumia 920, sharing the same polycarbonate casing it also sees the addition of a metal frame which gives it more premium feel and stylish appearance.

We expect the majority of UK network operators offer pay monthly contracts for the Nokia Lumia 920, as well as SIM free and pay as you go options.

Former HTC exec tells friends at HTC to ‘just quit’

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 12:04:51 +0000

A former HTC exec tells his friends who still work at the Taiwanese firm to “just quit.”

The former HTC exec in question is former product strategy manager, Eric Lin. He wrote on Twitter, “To all my friends still at @HTC – just quit. leave now. it’s tough to do, but you’ll be so much happier, I swear.”

We all know HTC is in trouble. In the first quarter of the year, the Taiwanese firm made a profit of £1.8 million, after the facing production delays of the HTC One. At the end of 2012, HTC made a profit of £22 million.

HTC has a lot riding on the HTC One. It expects to get back in the game with its new flagship. The One is undoubtedly one of the best Android-powered smartphones out there, but it has been overshadowed by the highly-popular Samsung Galaxy S4. Samsung expects to sell 10 million units of its new flagship next week. It previously announced that it has already sold 6 million units of the S4.

With the Samsung Galaxy S4 on its way to becoming the fastest-selling smartphone in Samsung’s history, it remains to be seen if the HTC One will ever sell well in shops.

Do you think HTC employees should just quit? Share your opinion through a comment on our Facebook page.

HTC One Google Edition to join Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Edition, HTC Rom Developer says

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 11:07:44 +0000

According to an HTC Rom developer, an HTC One Google Edition could be joining the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Edition on Google play. The S4 Google Edition is a version of the Galaxy S4, which runs Android in its vanilla form.

The Rom developer is LlabTooFeR. On Twitter, the developer tweeted, “It means that this summer we will see HTC One Google Edition or something like that…”

Currently, only Nexus devices such as the Google Nexus 7 and the Google Nexus 4 offer Android in an unadulterated form. So the prospect having another high-end smartphone other than the Samsung Galaxy S4 running stock Android excites us.

So why are a number of Android fans looking for handsets that run Android in its vanilla form? Well, bloatware consumes space on the handset’s on board memory, which means less space to store the apps you download. This has been the case with the Galaxy S4, with Samsung vowing to look into the issue. Another is resources. These extras consume more of the handset’s resources, affecting performance. Android in stock form will consume too much processing power from the processor making it perform even better.

Of course, since HTC is yet to reveal anything official about the One Google Edition, take this with a pinch of salt.

Interested to know more about the HTC One Google Edition? We’ll keep you posted once we know more.

Tipster leaks photos of the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 10:37:27 +0000

A tipster has leaked the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active, a tougher version of the Galaxy S4.

The tipster, named Leon Majceni, sent pictures of the Galaxy S4 Active to GSMArena. According to the site, “The Samsung I9295 Galaxy S4 Active has been in our rumor mill for quite some time. The latest leaked shots reveal that the Active will be a tougher dust and water resistant version of the Galaxy S4 flagship.”

Speaking about the handset’s specs, the site says, “The specs are expected to be the same and the live pictures below confirm it – the device is running on a quad-core 1.9GHz processor with Adreno 320 GPU, which most definitely means a Snapdragon 600 chipset. The screen supposedly has the same size and resolution as the original Galaxy S4 - a 5.0-inch 1080p unit, though it’s unclear if it’s a Super AMOLED one or not. Strangely enough, the reported pixel density of the phone is 480ppi, so the display might actually be smaller.

“Our tipster also confirmed to us that the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active has an 8MP rear camera, which is a downgrade from the 13MP sensor of the Galaxy S4.”

Speaking about its looks, GSMArena says, “Despite the similar specs, the Galaxy S4 Active looks nothing like the original. It comes in a metallic shell with bolts on the back, and there are also three hardware buttons below the screen.”

Of course, since Samsung is yet to officially reveal the Galaxy S4 Active, take this with a grain of salt.

Want to know more about the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active? We’ll keep you posted once we know more.

Samsung Galaxy S4, Apple iPhone 5, and Blackberry Q10 get clad in 24ct. gold

Sethe Gomez — Wed, 22 May 2013 08:49:17 +0000

The Samsung Galaxy S4, Apple iPhone 5, and the Blackberry Q10 have been clad in gold by Goldgenie and will cost you an arm and a leg if ever you’re interested in getting your hands on one of these luxury mobiles.

Goldgenie talks about the luxury Samsung Galaxy S4 on its website. It says, “Welcome to the New Samsung S4 embellished in 24ct. Gold, Rose Gold or Platinum.

“This customised rimmed Samsung S4 available in gold, rose gold or platinum makes a beautiful phone look even more desirable.”

The Samsung Galaxy S4 clad in gold, rose gold, or platinum will set you back £1697.00.

Speaking about the luxury Apple iPhone 5, the company says, “Welcome to the customised iPhone 5 range from Goldgenie featuring iPhones embellished in gold, platinum and Swarovski crystals.”

The luxury iPhone 5s will set you back from £2030.99 to £2530.99, depending on the options.

Speaking about the luxury Blackberry Q10, Goldgenie says, “Introducing the Gold BlackBerry Q10 exclusively from Goldgenie.

“This truly unique and exquisite BlackBerry Q10 has a 24ct. Gold plated bezel around outside housing and 24ct. Gold integrated panel below key pad.”

The luxury Q10 will set you back £1597.00.

So which networks will allow you to use these luxury handsets. According to the site all of their phones are SIM Free and unlocked to work on any network in the world.

Would you like to get your hands on one of these luxury mobiles, or do you think buying gold smartphones are just crazy? Share your thoughts through a comment on our Facebook page.

Tipster leaks specs of Nokia EOS

Sethe Gomez — Tue, 21 May 2013 19:36:32 +0000

A tipster has gotten his hands on the rumoured Nokia EOS and has leaked the handset’s specs.

Speaking to WMPoweruser, the tipster said, “The device is made of polycarbonate, and is about as thick as the Nokia Lumia 920 in the middle, but is highly tapered at both ends, giving the impression of a much slimmer device.

“The lens housing is round in shape and does not protrude much. The flash is Xenon, and the flash and lens are both smaller than the Nokia 808 Pureview. Next to the flash is a small red LED which may be a focus assist light.

“The lens also has an automatic cover that opens when the camera app is started.

“The number of megapixels were not marked on the prototype, with “XX megapixels” only being written on the lens housing.

“There is a new camera app called “Nokia Pro Camera”with a completely new interface. There is also manual focus available through the app. The regular photo app is also available.

“The screen size and resolution is same as 920, and appears to be AMOLED. The speaker holes are at the bottom as the handset.

“The handset was much lighter than the Nokia Lumia 920.”

Another tipster confirmed the information above. According to the site, “We had another source confirm the above info and added that the device will not come in colours, as that would look strange, and that it will unfortunately not support wireless charging, but that it may get wireless charging covers like the NL 925.”

The Nokia EOS is said to arrive either in July or August.

Interested in the Nokia EOS? We’ll keep you posted once we know more.

EU to investigate ZTE and Huawei for trade violations

Sethe Gomez — Tue, 21 May 2013 19:08:10 +0000

The EU (European Union) is prepared to investigate ZTE (makers of the Blade III) and Huawei (makers of the Ascend P1) for alleged trade violations.

Karel De Gucht, European Union Trade Commissioner, told Reuters, “Huawei and ZTE are dumping their products on the European market.”

He added that the two companies are creating “a distorted playing field and that is what this is about.”

In a statement sent to Reuters, Huawei denied breaking any rules. Huawei said, “In Europe and in all markets, Huawei always plays fair and we win business and trust from our customers through our innovative technology and quality service, rather than via pricing or subsidies.”

Speaking to China Daily, Tao Jingwen, Huawei’s Western Europe president, said, “Some European companies have blamed Chinese companies for their losses, but sometimes they were caused by their own laziness.”

ZTE failed to make a statement.

Previously, De Gucht’s office said, “We have already had three rounds of negotiations on that, but without any satisfactory outcome.

“I think it is better for the whole world economy and trade that these two big trading partners come to an amicable solution on what is in fact a very strategic and crucial sector. But you need two to tango and we have the necessary resolve to go for it if necessary.”

China responded by threatening to retaliate. De Gucht said, “I don’t want to elaborate on what could be the sanctions… Everybody knows. The Chinese know our procedures as well as we do. They are very well aware of what is in our toolbox.”

Do you think ZTE and Huawei are guilty of trade violations? Share your thoughts through a comment on our Facebook page.

HTC One production to double this May

Sethe Gomez — Tue, 21 May 2013 17:50:17 +0000

HTC says it is doubling production of its flagship the One this May, after high demand.

Focus Taiwan reports president of HTC North Asia, Jack Tong, saying at a news conference, “Our capacity is expected to rise significantly starting from mid-May. We are optimistic about our high-end sales during April and June.”

It’s no secret that HTC is on trouble. It needs to sell more smartphones and it has high hopes for the One. According to the site, “HTC, which faces stiff competition from its bigger rivals Samsung Electronics Co. and Apple Inc., reported revenues of NT$42.8 billion (US$1.43 billion) during the January-March quarter, a 29 percent drop from the previous quarter and a 37 percent annual decrease.

“The company said the lower-than-forecast revenue in the first quarter was due to delayed shipments of its new flagship HTC One in certain markets.”

It remains to be seen if the HTC One is truly generating a huge demand, especially after Samsung predicts selling 10 million units of its highly-popular flagship the Galaxy S4. It is also facing stiff competition from the Apple iPhone 5. As we all know, iPhones are known to sell like hotcakes.

Do you think doubling production of the HTC One is reflective of high demand? Share your thoughts through a comment on our Facebook page.

Samsung expects to sell 10 million units of the Galaxy S4 next week

Sethe Gomez — Tue, 21 May 2013 17:06:40 +0000

Samsung is expecting to sell a whopping 10 million units of the Galaxy S4 next week. This is despite only being available last April.

According to The Korean Times, Shin Jong-kyun, Samsung Electronics co-CEO, told reporters in Seoul, “We are confident that we will pass more than 10 million sales of the S4 next week. It is selling much faster than the previous model S3.”

If 10 million units of the Galaxy S4 are sold next week, it would become the fastest-selling smartphone in the Korean tech giant’s history.

Comparing the sales of the Galaxy S3 to the Galaxy S4, Shin said, “Samsung spent 50 days to pass the 10 million sales mark for the S3. The S4 will be Samsung’s first ‘10 million seller’ device less than a month after its official debut.”

When asked about the “unbreakable display” of the Galaxy Note 3 all he would say was, “More time will be needed.”

Will Samsung hit the 10 million mark next week? Well, analysts seem to agree with Shin. Woody Oh, an SA analyst, said, “An efficient supply chain, sleek products and crisp marketing have been among the main drivers of Samsung’s impressive profitability.”

Neil Mawston, SA executive director, said, “We believe Samsung generates more revenue and profit from the Android platform than Google does.”

Do you think Samsung will sell 10 million units of the Galaxy S4 next week? Share your thoughts through a comment on our Facebook page.

Google Edition Of The Samsung Galaxy S4 To Hit The US With Stock Android Interface

Chris Westley — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:27:05 +0000

A few weeks ago, the Samsung Galaxy S4 hit the market and as expected has proven to be very popular device. It certainly appears on track to hit Samsung’s targets of 10 million sales in its first month, and 80 million sales this year. However, there has recently been news that a few other versions of the Galaxy S4 will be released. These include the Galaxy S4 Mini, a waterproof Galaxy S4 Active and a camera orientated Galaxy S4 Zoom.

These handsets are set to hit the market in June, but recent news suggests that there is another version of the Galaxy S4 on the way. Unwired View has recently reported that a Google edition of the Galaxy S4 will also the market. The device will pack the same spec list as the standard version of the Galaxy S4, but will run the stock Android interface instead of the Nature UX interface used on the standard version.

The website reports that this device is unlikely to be as popular as the standard version of the Galaxy S4, and while it will appeal to some people who prefer the stock Android interface, it means that Samsung will be able it get Google updates as soon as they are rolled out, and will allow Google to boost its smartphones phones particular after reports that the Google Nexus line has been falling out of favour recent months. Visit us at PhonesLimited to compare Samsung Galaxy S4 deals and find the cheapest Samsung Galaxy S3 prices.

Interestingly, the Google edition of Samsung Galaxy S4 will be more expensive than the standard version, with a price tag of $649 (16 GB version) and will only be available in the U.S, via the Google Play store.

If this phone was released in the UK would you consider buying it, or would you opt for the standard version of the Galaxy S4? Have your say in the comments section.

Apple rolls out iTunes 11.0.3

Sethe Gomez — Mon, 20 May 2013 19:30:20 +0000

Apple has rolled out iTunes 11.0.3.

So what’s new? According to Apple, the update brings “New library views.” It says, “iTunes now features simplified views of exactly what you want. Looking for an album? Click Music and that’s all you’ll see. Do the same for movies, TV shows, apps — and everything else. It’s browsing made more intuitive.”

Another is an “Expanded view.” Apple says, “Select one of your albums and now it will expand in place. That means you can see all the songs on the album, click Play, and keep right on browsing without having to click back to your library. You’ll also see In the Store recommendations for similar albums you’ll want to check out.”

The third is the “new MiniPlayer.” According to the Cupertino firm, “We squeezed more features into an even smaller MiniPlayer. Now you can click the Up Next button to see which songs are playing next. And if what you see isn’t what you’re in the mood for, you can search your collection and choose a different song — without having to open your library.”

There are also “bonus features.” Apple says, “Good recommendations are easy to come by, thanks to In the Store picks. Just select an album, artist, or genre you like, and iTunes will suggest similar music you might never have found on your own. Already know what you want to hear? The new Up Next feature in iTunes lets you select a song and easily queue it to play next. Or last.”

Aside from the new features, Apple boasts “a whole new look for the store.”

Speaking about its “all-new design,” Apple says, “The iTunes Store has been redesigned for your Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch, so it looks and works the same wherever you shop. Easy-to-browse shelves serve up popular music, movies, TV shows, and more. And all the features you know and love are even easier to get to. It’s the best kind of shopping — simple.”

You will now get to enjoy a “preview history.” Apple says, “Now when you preview a song or movie, it’s always easy to find again. Just click the Preview History button for a quick rundown of all the music, movies, and TV shows you’ve sampled. iCloud keeps your preview history up to date across all your devices. So if you preview a song on your iPhone when you’re out and about, it’ll be right there waiting for you when you want to hear it again — or buy it — on your computer at home.”

Apple says, “iCloud does even more.” It is now “easier to play.” According to Apple, “With iCloud, you can access your content on all your devices. And now, when you buy an album, song, movie, or TV show on any device, it’s instantly accessible in your iTunes library on your Mac or PC. Just double‑click to play. Or if you’re going offline — say, taking your notebook on a plane — click the new Download button and bring a copy with you.”

iCloud also “picks up where you left off.” Apple says, “Start a movie, TV show, podcast, iTunes U lesson, or audiobook on one device. Pause anytime, and you can pick it up later on another device. iCloud remembers right where you left off. It’s just smart that way.”

Are you now enjoying iTunes 11.0.3 on your iPhone or iPad? Let us know through a comment on our Facebook page.

iPad and Android tablets not getting BBM support, says Blackberry exec

Sethe Gomez — Mon, 20 May 2013 19:01:29 +0000

It was previously reported that BBM would soon support Android and iOS. However, according to a Blackberry exec, it will not support the iPad, the iPad Mini, and Android tablets such as the Google Nexus 7. BBM will only support the iPhone and Android smartphones such as the Samsung Galaxy S4.

Speaking to Trusted Reviews, Head of the BlackBerry Software Portfolio, Vivek Bhardwaj, said, “At this point it is iOS and Android, and that’s iOS phones running iOS 6 and higher.”

Bhardwaj added, “Smartphone is our real focus and again it comes back to what BBM is. If you look BBM and the engagement and the activity, it’s because it is mobile, because people are on the go.”

Talking about why the Blackberry Messenger will not support tablets, Bhardwaj said, “When you start looking at tablets, computers and other screens, the usage model changes and behaviour changes. For us right now the absolute focus is getting BBM onto smartphones.”

Although tablets will not be supported for now, Bhardwaj hinted that Smart TVs and desktops could support BBM. He said, “I think when you look at things like Smart TVs and desktops, those are definitely areas for exploration.”

Bummed BBM will not support tablets? Share what you feel through a comment on our Facebook page.

Samsung Galaxy S4 first to win environmental TCO award

Sethe Gomez — Mon, 20 May 2013 18:37:52 +0000

The Samsung Galaxy S4 is the first smartphone to win TCO’s environmental award.

TCO announced on its website, “Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S4 smartphone is the first to achieve internationally recognized requirements for environmental design and socially responsible manufacturing. As the largest manufacturer of smartphones worldwide, Samsung is the first major brand to achieve the TCO Certified Smartphones product certification.

“The new certification was launched by TCO Development, an independent organization with over twenty years experience of sustainability certifications for IT products. Criteria in TCO Certified Smartphones are developed from a life cycle perspective, including requirements for socially responsible manufacturing, health/safety and the reduction of hazardous materials. Product compliance is verified by an independent, accredited third party.”

TCO Development CEO, Sören Enholm, said, “We’re really pleased to see a smartphone available on the market that meets the requirements in TCO Certified Smartphones.”

TCO Development Director of Product Certifications, Niclas Rydell, said, “Samsung’s choosing TCO Certified Smartphones is one example of a leading worldwide brand paying close attention to what consumers want.”

Enholm adds, “While it’s great to see a leading brand like Samsung choose TCO Certified, it‘s vital that other responsible brands also certify their smartphones and do their part to advance mobile products towards a more sustainable future.”

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