Connect With Mobility

Why you should jailbreak?

2012-01-29T00:57:00.001-08:00

After jailbreaking the iPhone, I realized there are certain flaws after that. While the battery lifespan of a smartphone is expected to be limited, the jailbreak makes the battery lifespan even worse. Well, I don't have much issue with it since I have the charger with me most of the time. I also have the car charger so battery lifespan is not too big a deal for me.

Secondly, another issue after jailbreak is that the iBook keep crashing. The problem is solved by installing Corona on Cydia.

Some other issues with jailbreak is the occasional lag and stuttered suffered by the iPhone. But seriously, this happens to even phones that have not been jailbreak.

So, why did I said jailbreak?

I know that most people like the idea of jailbreak because of all the customization that could be done. The tweaks and customization could be fun but it won't be long lasting. Imagine having to tweak your phone all the time. Unless you are one of those computer genius, you won't have that time. If you really like the customization, get an Android instead.

I personally like jailbreak because of the apps that one could have. The problem with the App Store is that there is no trial period...something that Windows marketplace is implementing. I wouldn't want to spend money buying apps that turn out to be a flaw or an app that I don't like. With jailbreak, I can try all these apps and the right way to put it is that I can play with all these different apps....without spending a dime. And if I really like them, then I can purchase them for my iPad as well....So honestly, if you don't mind the battery issue, jailbreak should be an option for you...for you to experience the apps that are available on Apple store...after all, this is one of the main attraction in iPhone that beat out all the rest. So, I don't see a reason not to jailbreak it to experience what iPhone is good at....the apps!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Great Eastern 21 Days app

2012-01-27T09:26:00.000-08:00

Well, I don't usually talk about the company that I work for but since I have downloaded the Great Eastern's 21 Days app, I decided to share it here.

Honestly, I think it is pretty cool for the company to think of enhancing the brand through the Gen-Y method...technology!!

Alright, the 21 Days app is a free app that is set to be a reminder to your goals and your targets. It is especially suitable for those of you who have made certain commitments for your New Year resolution.
Well, like most apps these days, you can link with your Facebook and Twitter.

This is the starting, promoting Great Eastern...lOL!

The setup is pretty easy...very user friendly!! a big THUMBS UP here!!

Basically, this is how the app works. You can set certain commitments that you want to make and set the promise that you make to certain people, for example, to your parents, loved ones or friends. I find it funny though that they decided to use the term "My Intentions" for all the commitments and goals. Wouldn't the word Goals or Targets be easier or more suitable? Anyway, you can shared those "Intentions" on Facebook and Twitter. There will be a setting for reminder that you can set. Some of the "My Intentions" available are like going to gym weekly, quit smoking and many others.

A little about the company...the word "intentions" is being used repetitively...these people definitely love that word and believe it is powerful...(I doubt that though)

Here, you can contact the company, whether in Singapore or Malaysia...

Some of the example of the intentions that are available..."Make time for my family", I think that is an important one...

Overall, the app is user friendly and it's pretty cool initially. But after a while, I got bored of it...it's just another reminder app and there are many other reminder apps much better than this one...but a good start though...worth trying for those who are trying to keep to their New Year Resolution.

MaxisMovies

2012-01-25T08:31:00.000-08:00

Well, if you are the kind of person who are into movies, then getting the MaxisMovies app for yourself is the right option.

With this app, you can easily buy 1 get 1 free ticket as Maxis offers this promotion.

Of course, each time when you buy using this app, there is an additional RM1.00 charges. Besides that, there will also be RM0.50 charges for the SMS sent to your mobile phone.
While it is definitely worth the money given that you can get one free when you buy one ticket, it will be better if you get a big group of friends to watch movie so as to reduce the charges.

I have used this app countless times....and yeah, it's definitely one of the best app to help me save money...

It is easy to use and all you need is a PayPal account. You can also use credit card for payment by adding the payment option on your PayPal account. If you asked me, this app definitely deserves a thumbs up!!
Good work to Maxis on this...

Hide icons on iPhone 4

2012-01-24T05:26:00.000-08:00

If you are new to jailbreak on your iPhone, then it is time to explore some of the new tweaks available with the jailbreak.

One of the things that I always wanted to do with my iPhone is to lock certain app when opened. While there are other ways to do it after jailbreak, those steps require money. I decided to look for ways to hide certain apps on my iPhone so that the icon will not appear and with SBSetting, it could easily be done.

Here are the steps to hide icons on iPhone 4:

First of all, you have to make sure that you have jailbreak your iPhone 4.

After that, go to SBSettings:

Now, if you want to hide the icons for SBSettings, click onto it and you will see the following page:

The option show icon is slide to OFF to hide the SBSettings. You will still be able to find the SBSettings using the iPhone Search button.

When you scroll down the page, you will find the System Wide Options. Press on the Hide Icons option.

From there, you will be able to see all the apps available on your homescreen. Scroll it to OFF will hide the menu from your homescreen.

Once you have done that, reboot your iPhone 4 and then you will be able to hide these apps.

Well, not many people will purposely search for the apps from the Search function. In fact, none of my friends ever look at that when they play with my iPhone. All they do is browse through the available apps they see on the homepage.

exploring with jailbreak on iPhone 4 iOS 5.0.1

2012-01-07T06:03:00.000-08:00

Well, since the iPhone 4 is no longer under warranty, I decided to try and play with the jailbreak.
Jailbreaking the iPhone is easy since the hackers have done all the job. Honestly, one thing that I really admire about these hackers are the passion they have in what they are doing. Seriously, how many of us have that kind of passion in our work?

Anyway, will post more updates about the jailbreak later.

Getting the Installous on the device...

Things that I love about iPad 2....

2011-12-28T19:56:00.001-08:00

There are a lot of things that I love about the iPad 2...I'm sure most people agree with the statement given that the iPad 2 is packed with a lot of features...

Here are the top 10 lists of what I love about the iPad 2...

1) Reading

I'm sure this is not on the top list for most people but reading on the iPad brings a new experience. Everytime when I am on the go, I could easily browse the magazines, newspaper and articles. Whenever I wanna blog and I seem to run out of idea, reading the blogs of my friends help to inspire me. It is also interesting to read about my favorite football team news. It really help me to stay connected.

On the image is shown one of my favorite websites where I read most of the articles...

2) Blogging

Can you imagine blogging while on the go? Well, I'm a blogger and I love to write about things that I love, share about new discoveries and also to discuss about things via blogosphere. I used to blog with my netbook when I reached home but with the iPad,I always use it to blog. Whenever I want to write a very long contents, I will use the keyboard that I bought.

And of course, blogging with the keyboard on the iPad is not too bad either after one get used to it. In fact, it was pretty fun.

3) Watching video

This is probably one of the best feature in the iPad...with such beautiful device at hand and the video playing with such high resolution, I totally enjoy it.

It works even better when the connection is good....YouTube, VEVO, etc....of course, it also work perfectly fine to sync your favorite video onto the iPad.

4) Game Play

Now most people will agree with me on this: that game play on the iPad gives a lot of fun. With the cool graphics and a user-friendly interface, gaming on the iPad is flawless....but I'm not really that into gaming....but still, I have enjoyed the moment...

5) Social Networking

This is one thing that help one keep in touch in a cool manner. I don't remember the last time purposely turn on my laptop or netbook for Facebook or twitter...in fact, it is turn on in a split second on my device...

The official Facebook app on my iPad...

And then there is flipboard that works like a magazine...

Flipboard works perfectly fine on both Facebook and twitter...

6) Listening to Music

Well, listening to music is definitely not the most efficient thing on an iPad but what the heck, this device helps to keep the beat and the mood...

7) You've Got Mail

Now I don't know a better way to put this but gmail on an iPad works flawless and also hotmail....it is easier to read on the screen with beautiful interface and layout....checking mails on the iPad makes working a lot easier...

Emailing is smooth and it is easy to manage...helps me to keep my hands off the PC...

8) Time Management

I used to enjoy having a planner or a diary each year...especially the Starbucks one...but with the iPad, I don't think there is a need for paper and pen. iPad calendar features are cool...and one could easily sync via the Internet, such as the Microsoft Exchange, Gmail and etc....

A calendar that is sync with Facebook birthdays, hotmail and gmail...how's that for being organize??

9) Video Call is Amazing

I'm not sure if there are a lot of people who are keen about video calling but one thing that I can say: iPad makes video calling cool and real...reason is simple enough: the video call on a large screen makes it easier to connect...of course, one has to make sure that the Internet connection is fast enough....try unifi!!

Try Skype on the ipad2...

10) Apps, apps, apps....

What do you think of Apple? The first thing that comes to mind: apps, apps, apps...

Well, there are a lot of different apps that gives us different thrill...

Here are a few that I will share:

DocAS is cool for usage and it is really amazing....it is beautiful and functionwise: very useful...

Moleskine...the famous and expensive notebook is available on iPad 2 for free, as an app...

Bloomberg, you can bring news and business with you on the go...

For the geek, check out national geographic...

Here is one entertainment for those who love cute and adorable stuff like Happy Feet....

I guess that's all for now but trust me, the iPad 2 will change your lifestyle..

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Windows is the future

2011-12-09T23:39:00.000-08:00

How many of you have been following the release of the iPhone 4S? Well, I'm one of them and seriously, the Apple latest iPhone is pretty much a let down...partly due to the hype played by the rumours.

However, my main concern is: Windows Phone. If those of you who still think that Windows are using the old interface on the Windows Mobile, think again. And why did my post start with Windows is the future...look at Windows 8!!

Honestly, the upcoming OS for Microsoft will have one of the biggest changes in terms of interface and even functionality. Microsoft aims to make it user friendly for everyone...question is will it work? Well, Windows 8 looks promising but even if Windows 8 fails to make the impact as expected, Microsoft is heading at the right direction.

A one similar interface across all platforms....your PC, your tablet, your smartphone....and that is exactly the idea of Steve Jobs (the man that everyone seem to praise)

Here are why Microsoft simply does it right, at least on paper at the moment:

1) Windows 8 Store - Windows 8 Store is the first thing that Microsoft probably has done right. Microsoft's revenue sharing for the apps on the upcoming Windows 8 store will be 30%, similar to iTune app store, Mac App store etc....but once the $25,000 mark is cross, Microsoft will only take 20% of the share. And guess what, the fees is much cheaper with $49 charged a year for individual and $99 for company. As for Apple, the charges is $99 a year for individual and $299 for companies wishing to do so. This will definitely be an attraction to developers.

2) Tablet will finally work for Microsoft - One thing that we must credit to Microsoft is the ability not to rush into tablets even after the launch of Windows Phone 7. It must be a painful process for the tech-giant company to play underdog but this has given ways for the tablets to work together with Windows 8, and rumours suggest that the Windows 8 tablets will make it big.

3) Windows Phone on the right track - What else can we say but Windows has been heading to the right direction with Windows Phone...the collaboration with Nokia was also a good effort. If anything were to say about Windows Phone, it is a work heading to the right direction...

I believe Apple's mistake with the launch of iPhone 4S that has receive so much criticism (regardless of how brilliant they claim Siri to be, I still find it stupid) also open up the way for Microsoft to penetrate into the market. The scenarios and circumstances at this point suggests Microsoft only has to do it right to regain the customers in the mobile industry...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Jalan Pegoh Seberang 3,Ipoh,Malaysia

Iphone 4S Siri not as good as advertised...

2011-12-03T20:32:00.001-08:00

Have you ever felt cheated by an advertisement? If you have then you will understand what I feel when I first playing with the iPhone 4S...The Siri shown on the advertisement was far more accurate and cool than the real one...while Siri wasn't too bad, it just isn't good enough. Not good for me to replace my iPhone 4...YenLeng bought the iPhone 4S and I played with the Siri and it just wasn't good enough... First of all, the design was exactly the same...not something bad since I like it the way it is...nothing to complain about since the retina display is amazing as ever...Alright...here is Siri... I ask for the time...it shows to me accurately....quite accurate when I talk about my calendar...but couldn't search for places in Malaysia...that is pathetic!! Even vlingo could do better I think....well, as. For the sense of humor, it is not bad...but after one play with it for a while, you'll get bored of it because all of the replies are pre-programmed...Anyway, one thing for sure...Siri fails!!Here are the images I took while playing with 4S Siri...

Apple Wireless keyboard

2011-11-24T18:27:00.000-08:00

I was not sure if I made the right choice to buy the Apple keyboard but eventually I did and it was working pretty good. The wireless keyboard is compatible with the iPad, iPhone, Macbook and also PC, connected via bluetooth.

Well, if you asked me, the Apple keyboard is a very beautiful add ons to the iPad and it is pretty useful at home. However, it is not really that portable. Holding onto the Apple keyboard, it makes me feels like if I dropped it by accident, there goes my RM200++.

I have played with the Wireless keyboard manufactured by Samsung specifically for the Samsung Galaxy Tab and I must said that it beats the one that I'm holding by far in terms of functionality.

However, I must said this beautiful add on is worth the money, given that I spend a lot of time reading and writing as well.

Test try with iPhone 4 on battery life

2011-11-12T18:31:00.001-08:00

After updating to the new iOS 5.0.1, I am trying the battery life of the iPhone 4...at the moment it seems pretty weak, with 29 minutes of usage and 2 hours 19 minutes standy, the device is at 94% already...a drop of about 6% with only 30 minutes of usage...

Anyway will be hoping to see how it goes before it drop below 20%...

Update to iOS 5.0.1

2011-11-12T03:52:00.000-08:00

For those of you who still do not know, the update to iOS 5.0.1 is available.
Well, apparently, it fixes some bugs that causes the low battery lifespan in iOS 5. I have yet to try on the reliability of the update but will post more updates on it once I test the battery lifespan on my iPhone 4.

Well, anyway in the update, I try updating it directly onto my devices (iPad 2 and iPhone 4) instead of using the iTune on my PC.

You will find the software update under settings>general

Well, when I tried it on my iPad 2, the battery is less than 50% and thus, I was told that I cannot update directly onto my device. I will have to have the power cable charging my iPad 2 if I wanted to directly update the iOS 5.0.1 onto it.

So, battery is an important concern if you want to update it directly onto your device.
Anyway I tried it on my iPhone 4 and since the battery is about 83%, it works perfectly well. It took about 15 minutes given that this is not a major update.

Well, there is not much about this update. Basically, it fixes bugs that affect the battery life of the iOS 5 devices. It adds multitasking gesture for the original iPad (which doesn't really concern me but for first gen iPad users, you are lucky!). It resolves bug with Documents in the Cloud. It also improve voice recognition for Australian users in voice dictation.

I will test on the battery life once I charge mine to full blast. So, stay tune on the update. (although rumours have said the iOS 5.0.1 is buggy)

Launching of the Samsung Galaxy Note

2011-11-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

For those of you who do not know, the Samsung Galaxy Note is launched today.
Well, you may not believe it but Samsung believes this is a breakthrough of mobile world.

I'm the kind that normally would buy into advertisement trick but since I'm there, I'm gonna test the device to see just what breakthrough did Samsung actually meant.

When I first have a look at the Galaxy Note, my thought was "It looks just like a bigger Galaxy S2."
Well, nothing wrong with that statement given that the S2 is such a good product.

The display of the Galaxy Note is definitely a winner. The large screen and Super AMOLED display is just amazing on this device. My friend, Clement and I were amazed by the crispness of the device. I decided to lower the brightness in the setting and the Galaxy Note's display still look amazingly beautiful even in comparison to my iPhone 4. I think it has everything to do with the larger screen display which makes messaging, surfing the internet and getting things done pleasing to look at.

Galaxy Note showing the video on Galaxy Note large screen...the display looks flawless!!

Of course, the Galaxy Note is known for the S-pen that apparently feels like a pen when you are writing on the device. Well, we tried it and it does not feel like a pen but it works. The best way to put it is probably that the device has a size of a small notebook that could easily be written using the pen. We test try by writing names as the photo below shows.

It feels pretty good writing with the pen.

We also try using it for messaging and while it feels good to use the pen for writing message, I personally feel typing using the hand would still be more comfortable. When I am using the Galaxy Note to get things done, I felt that I prefer using the finger to navigate and control than the Pen. Probably this is a habit cultivated after using the Apple iPhone 4 but it makes it weird to navigate using the Pen. But the idea of having the S-Pen for writing and jotting notes are pretty useful especially for students or during meetings. (I always imagine doing that using my iPad...haha!!)

As an Android phone, Google Mail will surely not fail you on this device.

The Galaxy Note is definitely as good as the name suggests: for taking down notes purpose.

Other than that, it feels and look pretty much just like S2. While the camera 8 megapixel is amazing with the shots, both my friend and I find that it takes a longer time to take snapshots in comparison to the iPhone 4. I felt that this is very much a let down as it will be more difficult to take impromptu snapshots.

We tried taking the snapshot of me using the device...we used the Smile shooter function...

The camera has other function such as the smile shooter as well. A good camera but like I said, I still don't like the time taken for the shots to be taken. Anyway other than that, the Galaxy Note feels pretty good to use.

WRAP UP

Well, the Galaxy Note is a good phone to use, providing a big screen that makes note taking amazing or one could look at it as a compact tablet. I personally feel the Note will be a good companion for note taking, web browsing, taking snapshots and others but as a phone, no...it feels bulky and weird holding a phone as big as the Note for that purpose. Battery lifespan I'm not sure but given that it is another Samsung product, I believe I can count on it for my daily usage.

However, a breakthrough it is not. It feels pretty much just like S2 and in fact, I prefer S2. Samsung Galaxy S2 has the perfect size and shape in my opinion as a smartphone. In fact, the S-pen could easily work just fine on the Galaxy S2. Anyway, for those of you who like the large screen, then forget about HTC Desire HD now...you've got the Galaxy Note...not a breakthough in the mobile world but definitely a good and worthwhile smartphone for the Android fans. A thumbs up!

And with the price offered, I think the Note is something worth considering...another good job from Samsung....

Haven't you heard? The Samsung Galaxy Note is here...

2011-11-10T21:25:00.000-08:00

Haven't you heard? The Samsung Galaxy Note is here. Well, for those of you who do not know the Galaxy Note, it is one of the rare obnoxiously large smartphone in the market and yet very thin as well.

introducing the Galaxy Note

The right way of putting it to describe the Galaxy Note is the world's largest smartphone and the incredibly compact tablet in high resolution all at the same time. Who could have kill two birds in one stone with such success? Well, I believe at the moment, only the creator of the Galaxy S2 could do such thing....sorry to HTC, Apple, or any other brands...you're just not the same standard as the Samsung.

If you have been following, DiGi has revealed its Samsung Galaxy Note plans on their online store with bundling options on DG Smart Plan.
Apart from choosing between Smart Plan 48 or 68, you do get an option of either 12 or 24 months contact as well.

Well, Digi plan is pretty straightforward if you know about the Smart Plan. It is basically the same concept. So, check out the prices as below:

DG Smart Plan 48 (12 months) – RM1,899

DG Smart Plan 48 (24 months) – RM1,749

DG Smart Plan 68 (12 months) – RM1,799

DG Smart Plan 68 (24 months) – RM1,549

There is an upfront payment between RM50-RM500 depending on which contract you choose.
For those of you interested in taking up to 24 months contract on Smart Plan 68, you will be entitled for a 12 months rebate of RM10 as well.

On the other hand, Celcom offers a much more cheaper price of the device at RM1,368 for the Celcom Exec 250 with 18 months contract.

Celcom has a better offer for business users who use a lot on their phone calls and messages.

Well, I'm not too sure about the reliability of this new smartphone at the moment so I'll be making a trip over to Pavillion to catch up on the reliability of this new smartphone. Stay tune for the review...

Testing Span

2011-11-10T04:03:00.001-08:00

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iOS 5 reminder based on "location"

2011-10-29T03:10:00.001-07:00

If you have been anticipating the iOS5, this is the first time that I'm blogging about this here.
One of the key factors that I have been looking forward is the reminder based on location. It makes sense that the reminder works in that way, as it will be cool to have the iPhone telling me about the things that I have to do when I enter my office.
It will also be practical for a lot of things. For example, when I go to the shopping mall, the reminder could tell me on what I have to buy.

Well, having try the new feature, I was impressed and yet disappointed at the same time. While it may be useful, it is difficult to set the reminder. The location that you want to set will need to be added into the contacts first before you can set it. This could be rather troublesome.

I was thinking in the line where one could search the location through Google Map or something like that.

Besides, when one set the reminder based on location, this will eat up the battery quickly due to the usage of the GPS to locate one's location.

Well, I believe there is still a long way for Apple to improve the functionality of this feature. Hopefully, there will be update to enable an easier method to set the location remnder.

iPhone 4 VS iPhone 4S

2011-10-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

It is finally happen. The latest generation of Iphone is out, but it is not the iPhone 5 as many of us speculated. All the hype about the most up to date generation of the Iphone comes to an end with slight disappointment from the consumers as well as from the Wall Street. Well, we can see that the shares drop to 350ish level when it announced the iPhone 4S.

So, what is the most closely kept secret about the iPhone 5? There isn't one - yet. The new iPhone might be a little bit faster, has a better camera and allows you to sync content without needing a computer. It includes a futuristic, voice-activated service that responds to spoken commands and questions such as "Do I need an umbrella today?". But the real question is, do the current iPhone users need to upgrade to the iPhone 4S?

Anyway, back to the topic. I am comparing the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S at the moment, and will be comparing the iPhone 4S with the current "king" of smartphone, Samsung Galaxy S2 in the near future.

	iPhone 4S	iPhone 4
Processor	Dual-core Apple A5	Apple A4
Display	3.5-inch IPS 960 x 640	3.5-inch IPS 960 x 640
Primary camera	8 megapixel AF with flash and f/2.4 aperture	5 megapixel AF with flash
Secondary Camera	VGA at 30fps	VGA
Video Recording	1080p at 30fps, optional iMovie	720p at 30fps, optional iMovie
Cellular	Hybrid GSM / CDMA "World Phone", Bluetooth 4.0	Quadband GSM, pentaband HSPA
WiFi	802.11b/g/n	802.11b/g/n
Orientation sensing	Accelerometer, digital compass, gyroscope	Accelerometer, digital compass, gyroscope
Facetime	Yes	Yes
SIM	Micro Sim	Micro Sim
Battery life	Up to 8 hours talk time on 3G 14 hours talk time on 2G Up to 6 hours data on 3G Up to 9 hours data on WiFi Up to 40 hours audio Up to 10 hours video	Up to 7 hours talk time on 3G, 14 hours on 2G Up to 10 hours data on WiFi Up to 40 hours audio Up to 10 hours video
Weight	140 grams / 4.9 oz	137 grams / 4.8 oz.
Dimension	115.2 x 58.6 x 9.3mm	115.2 x 58.6 x 9.3mm

Samsung Galaxy SII

2011-06-17T20:25:00.000-07:00

The Samsung Galaxy SII is about to make its presence in Malaysia and Maxis will be the first telco carrier to reveal the plan with the phone.
If you are looking for an extremely good bargain, Maxis will be offering a RM799 for the first 300 customers. That is right...you will find yourself needing to lineup for this great bargain but this is the best offer so far.

Besides that, Maxis will also be offering an additional RM200 off for those that subsribe for the package between 22June to 22July 2011.

The bundled offer will be the Value Plus plan with Data bolt-on contract over 12, 18 and 24 months. Most people will probably prefer the 24 months contract where there will be either 1.5 or 3GB data. The phone will then be at the price of RM1399. If you are one of those who subscribe between 22June-22July 2011, you will be able to get yours at only RM1199.

Galaxy Tab 10.1 vs iPad2

2011-06-10T05:57:00.000-07:00

I was actually thinking about blogging on the features of these 2 devices. But then, I saw an advertisement by Samsung that shows the important feature lacking in an iPad2....and the Galaxy Tab 10.1 has an impressive credentials with its Flash integration!!

I am having so much fun watching the ads...I'm going to continue the post for those who want to compare these two but I guess from the ads, we already have a clear winner...

It's time to Tab

2011-06-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

It's time for a better tablet...it's time to Tab, according to Samsung when they promote the newly designed Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. Now, let's not get mixed up with the old design of Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, which has later been renamed as Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V. The older version is thicker and heavier but it comes with a 8MP rear camera. Then, the older version also does not have a TouchWiz customization on top of Android, which means it will be a perfectly Google experience. Anyway, the new one comes out and is expected to be on sales in the United States on the 8th of June. (2 days from now and it makes me wonder when will it arrives Malaysia)

Anyway, I won't talk about the Tab 10.1V but so as to make sure that you are not confused by the advertisement, the newly Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 has a 3MP rear camera only and is capable of shooting HD video as well.

The big question mark is this: why reduce the 8MP to a 3MP..but let us not forget that the newly design Samsung Galaxy Tab is made after considering the design and specification of the iPad2. So, 3MP from Samsung is still good enough to match iPad2. So, what is so good about the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1.

Well, it definitely comes with a better design...If you don't believe it, despite of the large screen, the Tab is the lightest and thinnest screen tablet available in the market now. The amazingly thin and light body definitely make a lot of difference when you are on the go. The first thumbs up against the iPad2!!

You can have the black or the white ones...

Well, we all know that Apple boast about the retina display before but here, Samsung is talking about a high definition 10.1" display. With this, you can enjoy much better display and all the movies, photos and apps will be entertaining you with rich graphic display. Another thumbs up against the iPad2!!

With Samsung redesign model, the Tab now has a better home screen. It is customizable and all these make email, image galleries and your favourites to be easily accessible. If you are familiar with live update, it is also available for you despite of the ways you arrange your social network, email and favourites. It will be refreshed to be accessed by you at any time. Now that will blow the iPad2 apps icons...

Multitasking is also another feature that the Samsung Galaxy Tab has an edge over the iPad2...There are MiniApps available where you can access to the common apps that you have been using. Now, we know of the capability of multitasking in Android, which is way better than the Apple products...so here is another one that the Tab has better over the iPad2.

The Tab is also good in speed and web browsing...while this might not probably be better than the iPad2 especially in terms of web browsing, the Tab also has the Flash feature which is very much lacking in both the iPad2, iPad and also the iPhone...

If you have been listening and hearing about the rumours regarding the Tab, you will also know that it is way competitive with all other top tablets available in the market in terms of music, reading, office work and others. After all, it runs on the Android Honeycomb, the latest for tablets. It is amazing that in terms of communication, the Tab is also a thumbs up!!

And let us not forget about accessories...we have heard about the iPad 2 before and the Tab is not lacking in accessories as well. The Keyboard case and Keyboard Dock makes it work just like another netbook and with better graphic, speed and longer battery lifespan...

Well, I am not sure about you but even after the revised version come out with only a 3MP rear camera, I think it is sufficient for usage and the Tab 10.1 has definitely beat iPad2 in all areas, even in terms of pricing, it is on equal ground. I also find it more captivating and attractive since the Tab also comes with the USB port, something that is lacking in iPad2...Maybe it is time for Apple to work on the iPad 3...or if not, I am sure the best tablet of the year 2011 will be going to the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1

Check the latest ad from Samsung mocking iPad 2 here...

Xbox 360 consoles sold passed 55 millions

2011-06-03T21:01:00.001-07:00

If you are a big fan of gaming console, you'll realize that Wii, PS3 and Microsoft Xbox 360 are the top contender...

But when I read about the news of 55 millions consoles of Xbox 360 sold in the United States, we have a clear winner...it really tempt me to buy it as well since my brother will be moving to his new house soon...all the more with Kinect...

But I guess now is not the right time...this is because I am just starting to work...I'll need to spend a lot on working attire...then I want to spend more on investment and studies in the coming years...

Haha!! Suddenly thought of blogging bout this while sitting in the car...anyway guess that's it for now...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

[GAMES] Angry Birds (RIO)

2011-06-01T06:24:00.000-07:00

Alright, I am not a gamer but since YenLeng and some of my friends are playing Angry Bird (RIO), I decided to share my thoughts about one of the most famous game for smartphone. First of all, Angry Birds is like the Halo for XBox for smartphone, all the more for iPhone. Well, I'm not saying that Angry Birds is not popular among Android users but I find it more satisfying playing the Angry Birds on my iPhone 4 than Chin Sian's HTC Desire HD or YenLeng's HTC Aria. (Probably due to the graphic and blame it on the occassional lag in the Android phones due to the advertisement...after all, there is only free version in Malaysia Android market.)

Okay...first of all, I used to ask this question: "What makes Angry Birds so addictive? I mean it is not a super good game...but why is it so popular despite the fact that Angry Birds is not a free game."

When I played Angry Birds the last few days, I find it pretty interesting. Of course, credit must be given to the cute looking birds but I guess it is because of the different ways of going through each stage. One could easily go through every stage by either freeing all the birds or killing all the monkeys...that's where I am so far. But the difficult part is probably to earn 3 stars for each stage and I think it is a good game to occupy your time when you are waiting for someone or when you have some free time on your own.

My record: all 3 stars in all stages...I make sure I only advance when I got 3 stars...

Then, of course, I realize that there are some stories actually when you passed through one episode...I'm done with the episode on the Smugglers' Den and am playing the Jungle Escape now. It's quite interesting actually.

Well, one thing for sure is that...it change my mind about Angry Birds after playing it. I won't say it is an app that one cannot live without but it is definitely a very good game...that's why it is one of the top ones you find. Ask anyone with an iPhone or an Android phone and they will tell you about Angry Birds...so if you are new to iPhone and are looking for games to buy, this is definitely the one you must go for.

Windows Phone 7 Mango update

2011-05-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

Well, Windows Phone 7 Mango update promises a lot especially since Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer mentioned that there will be 500 new features with the Mango update.

Well, the Mango update will make the smartphone smarter and easier for usage. (This is exactly the same direction as the iPhone and if I may say, Microsoft is definitely heading the right direction although they might be a little too late)

THE BIG QUESTION MARK...CAN MANGO SAVE MICROSOFT??

Anyway even though Microsoft claimed that there will be 500 additional features, the company only highlight 3 of the new areas of improvement:

Easier to Connect and Share
A Smarter Approach to Apps
Web that Goes Beyond the Browser

Easier to Connect and Share
First of all, as we all know, Windows Phone 7 is deeply integrated with the social network such as Facebook and Windows Live. Now, LinkedIn has also joined in the fray as part of the social network integrated on the phone. So, now you can buzz with your mates as well as your work buddies, in the People Hub. As it is one of the Windows Phone 7 key points that differentiate from its' competitor, Microsoft focus on it in such a way that you could connect in Threads now...this is where FB chat, Windows Live Messenger and sms comes together. You could choose to either chat using text messages, Facebook, or Messenger. Besides that, you could also create groups where you could easily put in your favourites, your enemies, and etc. Updates of status and photos could also be seen easily in the People Hub. The integration of this has been the strength of Windows Phone 7 even from the launch and now with FB chat, it becomes even more interesting.

Then, there is a Smarter Approach to Apps...(something that I quite agree with Microsoft). First of all, the ability to multitask...(finally...this should be in from the first day of launching for WP7...anyway at least they are on the right track). Now, Microsoft even make sure that the ability to switch between apps are faster than iPhone. In iPhone, you'll need to double tap and switch between apps...as for the Windows Phone 7, all you need to do is press and hold the back button and you could switch between apps.
Microsoft also focus on improving the LiveTiles. This is definitely at the right direction since LiveTiles have also been the WindowsPhone 7 strength. However, the LiveTiles have a lot of improvement where you could see live updates on the apps that you put on your home screen.

Last but not least, it is the Web Browsing experience. Microsoft boast of the web browsing as one that is blazing fast. The Internet Explorer 9 is integrated onto the Windows Phone 7 as the default web browsing and as shown in the video below, the speed reading for Windows Phone 7 is at 30fps(frame per second). Obviously, this is the ideal phone for speed readers...the Torch is only at 5fps, Android at about 10 and it seems the iPhone could not even catch up with it.
The Local Scout is also one hell of a cool stuff. It provides a hyper local search results and recommend nearby restaurants, activities, and others. Not only that, when you use the BingMap, it is even better than the Google Map....BingMap has the capability of viewing the indoor maps as well.

Another cool feature is the Bing Vision...it is something similar to the Google Goggles but it works even more effective. Bing Vision could only search for text and barcodes. However, it is also because of this that the search result is blazing fast and from there, you could easily purchase books and find information using apps. The ability to integrate apps with search is also something that makes it stands above the iOS, Android and RIM.

I guess that's all for now. There are definitely more from Mango update...they have the Office that is extremely useful for the business user, the SkyDrive, XBox for gamers and maybe even more...Honestly, I'm excited about it and all the more so given that the Mango update is probably going to be the OS for the upcoming Nokia smartphone. Let's hope that Microsoft pull a great one this time and impress us once again after so long...

MeeGo - Alternative to iOS and Android?

2011-05-21T23:46:00.000-07:00

For those tablets and smartphones fans, they might have heard of MeeGo, but nevertheless not many of us are aware that there is an alternative to iOS or Android or even the Windows Phone 7 in near future (or even now).

MeeGo is an open source, Linux project which brings together the Moblin project, headed up by Intel, and Maemo, by Nokia, into a single open source activity. However, due to the slow progress of MeeGo, Nokia defects to Windows Phone operating system in its future smartphone devices.

But despite Nokia's defection, MeeGo continues with its development and the latest version of MeeGo, MeeGo 1.2 is released on 20th of May. MeeGo currently targets platforms such as netbooks/entry-level desktops, handheld computing and communications devices, in-vehicle infotainment devices, connected TVs, and media phones. All of these platforms have common user requirements in communications, application, and internet services in a portable or small form factor. The MeeGo project will continue to expand platform support as new features are incorporated and new form factors emerge in the market.

The latest version of MeeGo features the QML application framework and extended Qt mobility APIs, including those for location, system, connectivity, and sensor (including haptic) capabilities aimed at rapid development. The telephony and wireless networking capabilities have also been enhanced with GSM, GPRS, and HSPA+ support, a SIM application toolkit, more Bluetooth profiles, expanded VPN and wireless authentication, data tethering capabilities and better multimedia support. MeeGO 1.2 supports netbook, vehicle and tablet UXs (user experiences) and has Linux kernel 2.6.37 at its core.

Rumour is that Nokia is preparing to launch its first MeeGo handset in the N9 smartphone soon. Get more of MeeGo project online at https://meego.com/.

With the emergence of MeeGo, we can expect a fierce competition in all smartphone and tablet devices, each operating system hopeful to become the standard in the smartphone and tablet realm.

Skype purchased is probably one of the best move by Microsoft

2011-05-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

For those of you who wonder why on Earth Microsoft splash $8.5billion to buy Skype, the reason is probably simple...it was an encouragement by Bill Gates.
There have been a lot who suspect that Steve Ballmer ochestrated the purchase of Skype but according to news from BBC, Microsoft founder, Bill Gates actually encouraged the company to purchase Skype.

Gates said: "I think it's a great, great deal for Skype. I think it's a great deal for Microsoft. The idea of video conferencing is going to get so much better than it is today. Skype actually does get a fair bit of revenue. It'll be fascinating to see how the brilliant ideas out of Microsoft research, coming together with Skype, what they can make of that."

Well, video conferencing and most people are going to look at this as a boost for the Windows Phone 7, all the more after the collaboration with Nokia.
One thing that is quite certain is this, that Bill Gates has make almost all the right decisions for Microsoft and it is quite likely that history will repeat itself. Although many might argued that $8.5 billion is a huge amount, one might probably need to think again because if it's what Gates think of, it's probably going to rake in more profit than the $8.5billion.

Windows Phone 7 "Mango" update

2011-05-15T20:37:00.000-07:00

Well, there has been a lot of negative feedbacks on the updates to the new Windows Phone 7 device. This is probably due to the first time experience for Microsoft to develop and provide update for multiple different devices. I believe we should give some time to the company to adapt to the situation, since Apple first few updates have their own struggles as well. (remind us of the first few updates during the early days of Apple iPhone)

Anyway, news of the "Mango" update for Windows Phone 7 is positive and from some of the leaked screenshots, it is quite certain that the "Mango" update is coming with support for Facebook chat (we can see the strong integration between Facebook and the Windows Phone 7 from the start and with this, it is quite clear that the WP7 is indeed the phone for social networking), Office 365 (comes along with SkyDrive and SharePoint...this will definitely help to attract business user) as well as a revamped hub for Games.
There are some new features as well, such as Automatic sync options, some nice lock screen that shows the album playing on your device, and also some new features for group messaging.

Now, it is clear that Microsoft is aiming not only for business users but also targetting young people and young adults who are hooked on Facebook...and they are also aiming at gamers with Xbox Live integration. The question remains on the ability to challenge Apple's iPhone...

Hopefully, we will see more improvement on this device...it's definitely looking cool with the new interface and we are hoping that it comes out good!!

Blackberry Playbook....more bad news...

2011-05-14T22:07:00.001-07:00

Initially I was really impressed by the Blackberry Playbook capability of multitasking and reviews suggest that this is a much better device than the iPad2...but just when the expectation is high, the Playbook seems to carry more bad news!!

At least 900 Playbook was found to be faulty and need to be recalled. You could find the serial number of the devices affected on the Engadget website....surely this is not a good start for the tablet that intend to challenge iPad2.

Well, I had consider getting myself the Blackberry Playbook before but if the news are not improving, I might just ignore the need for a tablet for now...not that the iPad2 is not good but it's just that a 10 inch tablet seems too big for me...but I'm sure many of the Apple fanboy will not mind splashing their cash on the new toy from Apple...

So if you are indeed going to buy a tablet, would it be the Apple iPad2, Motorola Xoom, Blackberry Playbook, the Samsung Galaxy Tab2 or what?? Well, it seems iPad2 still have the edge given the latest bad news from Blackberry...let's hope for a better competition

[GAMES] Ninjump

2011-04-24T23:49:00.000-07:00

Well, this is one of the games that I love to play because it's simple and easy to play while I'm waiting for bus or simply when I needed something to keep me awake. It is important especially since I have been staying up late for football matches lately.
Anyway back to this app...the interface is cute with a rather good background music...i love to play the game while wearing the headset...it gives the sort of Ninja feel.

Well, the game is pretty simple...when you press on the skin, the ninja will jump and you must avoid contact while on the move. When you jump, you will be able to kill the bird, fox and also other ninjas and rocket bombs as well.

If you manage to kill three of this in a row, then you will be able to jump higher and faster for a while. It is not a game that requires a lot of intelligence but definitely a good one when you just wanna chill and relax yourself. I got myself the highest score at 14000 plus though a friend of mine manage to make it 15k.

There are two versions, the free and the deluxe version with some additional challenge. I honestly feel that the free version is fun and good enough although I must admit the occassional lag due to the advertisement but nevertheless, it should not be a major issue.

So, if you are looking for a free game to occupy your time and help you waste your time while waiting, this is the one that I recommend you to. Simple, fun and challenging all at the same time!!

[REVIEW] HTC Aria

2011-04-03T19:16:00.000-07:00

I guess it is cool to buy the iPhone 4, HTC Desire HD, HTC Desire, Samsung Galaxy S, the tablets or other high end smartphones but what if you are looking for a good smartphone that isn't that bulky.
Well, you probably will be disappointed because all the smartphones with 1GHz processor have big screen...but in my opinion, if you are looking for a mini smartphone, the HTC Aria will be the one for you.

HTC Aria looks nice and elegant even in a smaller size

The look and design of the phone matters

Just when it seems that the next great smartphone will be humungous in size, it is great to grab a hold of the HTC Aria. The silver faux screws on the rear and the power strip on top with the volume rocker on the side are definitely a good choice for design. What sets HTC Aria apart from other great smartphones are probably the design. Cute is right word to describe the smartphone and yet it could still look sexy when you grab hold of it. A combination that definitely attract enough attention despite of so many other higher end smartphones that we are seeing in the market today.

The phone measured at only 4.1- x 2.3- x 0.46-inches and weights 3.8 ounces only with the 1,200mAh battery installed. The lightness of the phone made it comfortable to hold and play with the phone. The black rear of the phone also rejects fingerprints and could easily be taken in and out of your pocket.

There is however a setbback on the design. I find it extremely difficult to open the phone and it is a neccessity for this phone as the storage card could only be inserted inside the phone, something that I find it to be quite annoying. Besides this, I felt that the design of the phone is pretty flawless.

DISPLAY

When it comes to display, HTC Aria is definitely not as great as the iPhone or some of the higher end smartphones. Under the bright sunlight, the HTC Aria will require an adjustment to the brightness so that it could be seen clearly. Of course, it is not a big issue with the widget available for one to easily adjust the brightness to the maximum.

No doubt about it, with smaller phones, it simply means that you will find it more difficult when it comes to texting. I definitely find it hard to get used to it after using the iPhone 4 for quite a while but then, I still manage to find some good keyboards from the Android market to help me on this.
The four main buttons on the screen remains the same, just as any other Android phones and I think it is smart as you could easily click on the Home, Menu, Back and Search button.

CAMERA

Well, the HTC Aria comes with a 5 Megapixel camera, pretty much competitive on paper but when it comes to performance, it really isn't as good as the iPhone 4. However, with some tweaks on the phone camera settings, you could still come out with photos with great satisfaction. Of course, on low light, it will be an issue for the camera since it does not come with flash for the camera.

BATTERY

Now, when it comes to battery lifespan, the HTC Aria is top class and you will most likely be able to enjoy the usage of the phone for a whole day without worrying about charging your phone. I find that I don't have to worry about whether the phone has enough battery to last when I am using YenLeng's HTC Aria in comparison to when I use the iPhone 4. Anyway, it might due to the fact that I am playing more often with the Apple's toy but then, the HTC Aria definitely is strong on this area, most likely due to the much smaller screen.

THE SOFTWARE AND EVERYTHING ELSE

When I first play with the HTC Aria, I am totally in love with the HTC-built Sense overlay on top of the Android 2.1. Oops...before I forgot, the HTC Aria could be updated to Android 2.2 (Froyo) although it might not support 2.3 (Gingerbread).
Anyway, when I play with the phone, I did not expect much on the speed front since the phone is only on 600MHz but I am quite impressed by the HTC Aria. With a few apps running in the background, I did not notice any particular lag or sluggishness.
I also enjoyed switching the home screen as I downloaded some new homescreen such as the Launcher 7 (similar to Windows Phone 7).

And honestly, I kinda like it since the home screen helps to simplify things...but then again, the Android multiple pages home screen has its' own advantages such as being able to look at news without entering any apps, update on the weather easily and also the ability to look at notes and to-do list in a glance, something that iPhone cannot do.

Of course, like almost all other high end HTC smartphones these days, there is a polite ringer functionality. As soon as one lift up the phone to see who is calling, the ringer volume lowers down and if I flip the phone over, it stops ringer altogether and takes message quietly. Something useful especially when one is in a conversation and decided not to be rude by answering the phone.

The email is push on the go (I find it as good as the iPhone), the FriendStream is good enough and there is the HTC Peep for twitters!!! Like all other HTC phones, there is the HTC Footprints to check on the places that you been before (particularly useful if you are a traveller...not me though).

WRAP UP

So, the question that remains after all this playing and blogging about the HTC Aria, is it good enough to be the smartphone for you?
Honestly, if you are asking me to compare the iPhone and HTC Aria, I will definitely go for the Apple's Giant but then it is like comparing an Apple and a orange...one is sweet and the other is sweet-sour citric taste...both are different stuff!!

If you want the smartphone that is tiny, sexy, cute and yet able to perform marvellously, HTC Aria is the one for you but if you are a gamer or someone who would need to use your smartphone for a lot of emails, social networking, blogging and other business work, it might not be so suitable due to the smaller screen but overall, it is a classy smartphone, definitely one worth while for you to check on and given that it is also much cheaper than other high end smartphones...

HTC Incredible S for only RM599

2011-04-01T01:25:00.000-07:00

Well, the Digi Smart Plan rebate promo on smartphones might have ended yesterday (31st of March) but if you are wondering if you could find any good bargain from Digi, there will be another promotion tomorrow and it is a one day promotion and only available for the first 300 customers who register the Dg Smart Plan and you could buy the HTC Incredible S for only RM599.

Well, this is definitely not a April fool's joke and so if you are really interested in buying a smartphone, here is the time. The HTC Incredible S has almost similar specification as the HTC Desire HD except for the smaller screen.

In fact, the smaller screen might even be more convenient and comfortable for users as 4.3 inch is probably just too big. So, we're talking about one of the high end smartphone at RM599...
So, be the first 300 customers to purchase the HTC Incredible S at an incredible discounted price at RM599 when you sign up for the Dg Smart Plan 24-month contract at Digi Retail Centres nationwide tomorrow (2nd April 2011)

Here are the list of Digi Retail Centres that have this offer:

Central Region

SoHoKL
K-OG-03-04, Solaris Mont Kiara, No. 2, Jalan Solaris, 50480 KL.

Times Square
L01-36, Berjaya Times Square, No. 1, Jalan Imbi, 55100 KL.

Klang
Lot Unit B-G-8, BBT One, Lebuh Batu Nilam 2, Bandar Bukit Tinggi, 41200 Klang, Selangor.

SS2
24, Jalan SS 2/66, 47300 PJ, Selangor.

Sunway Pyramid
Lot LG2.69, Lower Ground 2, No. 3, Jalan PJS11/15, Bandar Sunway Pyramid, 46150 PJ, Selangor.

Bangsar
Lot F140, First Floor, Bangsar Shopping Centre, KL.

Eastern Region

Kuantan
Lot G22B & G23 (II), Ground Floor, Berjaya Megamall, Jalan Tun Ismail, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang.

Northern Region

Ipoh
Lot C-01-04, No. 2, Ground Floor, Persiaran Greentown 3, Greentown Business Centre, 30450 Ipoh, Perak.

Pulau Tikus
368-1-02, Jalan Burmah, 10350 Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Southern Region

Taman Molek
6 & 8, Jalan Molek 1/12, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor.

Seremban
No. 15, Ground Floor, Jalan Kong Sang, 70000 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan.

Sarawak Region

Kuching
Lot 506-507, Section 6 KTLD, Jalan Kulas Tengah, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak.

Sabah Region

Api-Api
Lot 5/G3, Ground&First Floor, Api-Api Centre, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

[APPS] Disney's Tron

2011-03-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

Well, if you know me long enough, then you will know that I'm not a gamer but with the iPhone 4 around, there is a tendency to play some games especially when you have free time or while you are waiting for others. Anyway, I wanna write a short review on the game, Tron. It is a free app on Apple Store and it is really very good.

TRON

The developer for the game is Disney and there is another version, TRON: LEGACY which costs about $0.99 but I do not know how is it in comparison to the free version because honestly, I think the free version is good enough.
Anyway, when you enter TRON, you will have two options in the game menu, where you can choose to either play TANKS or LIGHT CYCLES.

For the TANKS, it is the modern adaption of Modern Tanks. The game has a top-down view, where you can see your tank as well as the enemies surrounding you.

You will have two virtual joystick for usage. The one on your left is to control your tank's movement while the controller on your right is to control the turret and firing. Each tank will be given two available weapons, a turret and grenade-type weapon that helps you to shoot over the walls.

if you are not sure how to play, there is a menu in the setting that teach you HOW TO PLAY!! A good guide for beginner.

Strewn around each level are power-ups which can help out your tank. Weapon upgrades can increase the firing speed or range of each weapon. The weapon upgrades may also allow turret shots to bounce off of walls. Temporary power-ups can increase weapon range or the speed of your tank. There are other special use weapon as well such as the laser beams and mines. While playing with this game, the excitement is there and I like it that the sound and music is also very interesting, suitable for the game. It gives the feeling that you are at war or something like that. The movement and control using the two joysticks is awesome and very responsive. It is not a tough game but quite an interesting one that is suitable to play while you need something to do to occupy your time.

Then, we also have the LIGHT CYCLES...

ENTER THE GRID

This is probably the better game in comparison to TANKS if you are trying to entertain yourself while relaxing or waiting for time to pass. For beginners, I'll suggest you to look for the GAME CONTROLS option first to learn about the ways to play. You have two choice, one is by flick and the other by tap, just as shown below. I personally feel that flick is the better option. Tap is good in a way but I'm not so used to it so I prefer flick instead. The choice is yours and every individual have different preference.

Basically, if you have watched Tron: Legacy movie, you will know how the game works.

The graphic is nice, the music and sound suits the game well, helps to create a very competitive environment. So, if you ask me, this is really probably one of the best free games available on Apple Store. There is however some issue with the game at the moment. It could not access to the multiplayer section, where you can play with your friends. I think the issue is with the server of the developer of the game but I couldn't be sure...hopefully after the issue has been resolved, I could review on the game about how it feels to play together with your friends.

iPad 2

2011-03-03T05:17:00.000-08:00

There has been a lot of rumours about how the iPad 2 would look like but if you do not know, it has now been official. And to make it even more lively, Apple CEO, Steve Jobs had made a special appearance despite having taken a leave of absence due to ill health....

new design...thinner and lighter, yet faster...

It may seem that Apple has got it right again, with a thinner and lighter design of the second generation iPad. Apparently, it is even faster now...with the iPad using two powerful cores in one A5 chip. You will surely notice the difference when you are using it to browse web, watch movie, make FaceTime video call, gaming, and when you want to switch between apps. The smoothness and speed of the device will blow your mind away.

The camera is here...

Well, the front and rear camera is here. For those of you who like the idea of FaceTime, you have it here with you. Imagine using the the iPad for FaceTime...I'm sure it will be much cooler with the larger screen and faster processor. If you think that the camera is just for FaceTime, you are wrong...it actually enables HD Video Recording. The camera is also good for snapshots whether it be day or night. The advance backside illumination sensor allows you to capture great shot even in low light.


HD Video recording...this is definitely gonna be something that capture your attention!!

Even with the new design, the battery lifespan is still as impressive as the first one...an amazing 10-hour battery life. This is definitely good for mobility.

We also have the new accessory made especially for the iPad, known as the iPad Smart Cover...

Are you buying the idea as proclaimed by Apple?

Well, chances are most people will still buy into Apple's idea. But if you are still not convince that iPad is the tablet for you, you will need to check out the built in apps...apparently, according to Apple, the device that does it all does even more now. Here are some of the list:

FaceTime
PhotoBooth
Mail
Safari
iBooks
Videos, Photos
Find my iPad
iPod, iTunes, App Store
Maps
Youtube
Game Center
Notes, Calendar, Contacts
Apps specially for iPad by Apple such as making music with GarageBand, edit HD movies using iMovie, write novels and many more...

With all these features, it seems that the iPad is a must buy new tablet. Has Apple finally got it right? Well, if you are an Apple fan, it will be obvious that this is the tablet for you but if you are open to other OS, it is hard to say that iPad is way ahead in comparison to Xoom and also the upcoming Blackberry Playbook as well as other tablets. But then again, Apple has managed to stir and grab the attention, just as the iPad has.

Whats app...

2011-02-28T09:32:00.000-08:00

Well, this is probably one of the best apps that one should have after buying iPhone 4. If you are using Android phone like the one YenLeng is using in her HTC Aria, then you could actually download it for free. However, on iPhone, it will cost $0.99...not too expensive for an app that has 4.5 stars...that's how good people are rating it...and there are 89 ratings given the last time I check.

Anyway, I realized that it was really good for communication, especially if you have friends who are using smartphone and they are on data plan as well...I'm lucky to have quite a number of friends using Whats App Messenger. I could chat with people like my sister, Chiew Lian, Addie, Alicia Yap, Evon and many others....and to be honest, you wouldn't even notice it to be using your data plan...it seems like just another sms that you are receiving from your friend.

Here are some of the snapshots that I have taken:

This is the favourite menu, and from here, you could look at the people in your contacts who are using Whats App....no need to bother about adding them like how you do on MSN or other Messenger...Whats App Messenger will automatic detect the people on your contacts who are using this application, whether it is an Android phone or iPhone or even Blackberry.

It is simple to use and for those of you are using it for the first time, you might be required to fill in some details for registration but it won't really take too much of your time.

Now, just like any other Messenger, you could set a status so that others could see. If you are using it for the first time, your status will probably be like mine, informing others that you are using Whats App Messenger by saying "Hey there! I am using Whats App." Of course, you could easily change the status into some of the common ones as shown on the image above...you have an option to edit your own status, just like when you are using MSN Messenger.

The interface is easy for usage and you could easily read the messages on Whats App. When you receive any message, there will be a notification informing you of the message, just like when you use sms. The push notification is very good and it helps to connect with my friends easily.

Here is the setting for you. You could tell a friend about this application either by sms or email. In the chat settings, you could change the display name, the chat wallpaper as well as to determine if you want to allow preview to be available. You could also download the Emoji Free Emoticons...so that you could send cute emoticons to your friends. If you want to block your friends, it is also possible from the settings on the application.

Of course, I also love the application because it is so user friendly and it even allows you to choose to either broadcast the message or even have group chat. This is amazing especially for those of you who have a lot of common friends in different place. Addie is in Ipoh, Liang Hin is in Singapore, Alicia is in KL and I'm in between Ipoh and KL so it really does help by having group chat.

For those of you who are using iPod, I am sorry to say but you probably could not purchase the app from the Apple Store at this moment but if you are interested and keen on jailbreaking your iPod, it is possible for you to have the application as well although I strongly believe that jailbreaking is not as cool as purchasing the app.

Given that the social network has become so important in our community today, I believe Whats App Messenger is definitely one of the most relevant app in our community today. If you are interested in using other application to chat, you could also consider Nimbuzz, PingChat and many others. My brother has shared about Nimbuzz in his previous post so you probably can look at it again. Nevertheless, Whats App would be my number one app for now...something that I must have if I own the iPhone, which I do now...

Viber - Free Phone Calls for Iphone, Ipod Touch and Ipad

2011-02-14T23:06:00.000-08:00

Viber is a free Iphone application that allows you to make free phone calls to another Iphone owner who has the application installed. This application is currently one of the most popular free VOIP applications that are available in the iTunes Store and Iphone users who have downloaded the application can call whenever there is Internet connection be it Wi-Fi or 3G.

Viber is not only works with Iphone but it is also compatible with other Apple products like Ipod Touch and Ipad which use iOS 4.0 or newer. For Ipod Touch 3rd generation and older, a headset with mic is required to make the phone call using Viber.

After downloading and installed Viber on the Apple device like Iphone or Ipod Touch, one will requires to setup the application by entering a mobile number so that Viber can send an activation code to the mobile number. For Iphone, the activation code will usually be send to the Iphone, while for those who are using Ipod Touch or Ipad, they will get the activation code on their mobile phone. After the activation, Viber is ready to go and one will be able to save a lot of phone call charges by calling family and friends using Viber. Extremely good when call oversea.

One of the thing that I like about Viber is I feel that the sound is better than regular phone call especially when I'm in a Wi-Fi zone where the Internet connection is fast - assuming the receiver's Internet connection is the same. In the latest version, Viber includes call quality indicator, which really do me a great deal of favour in finding the location with the strongest Wi-Fi signal.

Call for Free Using Nimbuzz for iOS and Android

2011-02-05T08:12:00.000-08:00

During this Chinese New Year break, I managed to play around with some of the applications for the iPod and Iphone. Well, one of the application that I found useful and more importantly there is an Android version of the application as well. This means that if you have a lot of friends using iPhone or even iPod Touch and Android smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S and HTC Desire HD, then this application is suitable for you as well.

Nimbuzz is like a 2 in 1 application that allows registered users to make calls to other Nimbuzz users, as well as sending messages. In short, Nimbuzz is just another Skype that most of us are currently using.
(I will blog about the Skype application for iOS and Android in another post)

One of the feature in Nimbuzz that I like, as well as dislike is the integration with other messaging software like Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, Facebook Chat and many other more. I really like this because you get to chat or call friends who are logged on to the PC while calling and texting for free with friends using smartphones like iPhone - of course they need to be registered users as well.

For iPod Touch users, you can also install this application and chat or call friends whenever you are in a WiFi connection - it is not that tough to find WiFi zone nowadays as there are just too many Starbucks or Old Town Kopitiam around us.

iPhone 4

2011-02-03T17:13:00.000-08:00

We all know about iPhone 4 but how many of us really know about what it can do? Well, I don't really know about it either until my sis bought hers...

When I was unboxing the iPhone 4, I was AWW!! haha!!

Well, to be honest, iPhone 4 is a good phone...user-friendly, smooth and it seems to be running so smoothly all the time. Then, you don't have to worry about closing applications like when you use Android or Windows Mobile (if you're still using it).

The camera is fantastic....and my brother who previously said nothing good about iPhone seems to appreciate the camera in it and the ability of iPhone 4 to upload photos directly to social networks as well. The music is fantastic, the video is awesome...the internet browsing is simple, smooth and the pinch to zoom seems to be awesomely smooth. Although i felt that the battery life ain't as good as proclaimed by many...

Well, here are the specifications of the Iphone 4 for those of you who do not know...you could go the Apple website to look for it...I'm too lazy to write it down in my blog here...

Samsung Galaxy S

2011-02-02T01:58:00.000-08:00

Samsung Galaxy S is one of the best Android smartphone available in the market and since I consider getting one, I look at some of the specifications and the power of this smartphone.

This 4-inch, Super AMOLED, 800 x 480, IPS-killing display has been the screen that could amaze you even if the smartphone is subjected to bright sunshine flowing directly at it. This is probably one of the finest displays at the moment, very much comparable with the iPhone 4 retina display.
The Hummingbird processor is powerful as well, making the pinch-to-zoom to be superbly smooth.

The 720p video recording at a cool 30fps is on offer, along with a 5 megapixel imager on the back and a 1.3 megapixel one on the front. Both picture and video processing were done rapidly.

On the software front, you've got TouchWiz 3.0 overlaid atop Android, though if you're keen on sticking to the stock Google-flavored Eclair, the good news is that Samsung's modifications don't really get in your way.

Aside from the Social Hub -- which aggregates Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and other social networks into one stream, in a similar vein to what almost everyone else is doing lately -- they're mostly in-app changes and skinning tweaks that shouldn't have a negative impact on the user experience.

The handling of contacts were amazing as you could swipe it to the right on a contact's name to automatically dial his phone number, whereas swiping left initiates a text message with him as the addressee. This is definitely smooth, and user-friendly...something that Samsung has been very good at lately.

Of course, there are much more free apps on the Android market in comparison to the Apple store...

GALAXY USER GUIDE
Network

HSUPA 900/1900/2100
EDGE/GPRS 850/ 900/1800/1900
Dimension

64.2 X 122.4 X 9.9 mm (119g)
Display

4.0” WVGA(480x800) 16M SUPER AMOLED
mDNIe(Mobile Digital Natural Image engine)
Samsung Android 2.1 (Eclair)

Upgrade to Android 2.2 (Froyo) is available
via Samsung Kies*

Samsung Apps / Android Market

Various applications downloadable
Social Hub

Integrates SNS, email, and calendar accounts

* Availability may vary depending on country and carrier
Android Samsung UI

Multiple Homescreens
Hybrid Widgets
Processor

1GHz CPU Speed
Battery (Standard) Li-pol, 1,500mAh

Talk time: 2G/803 min, 3G/393 min.
Standby time: 2G/750 hrs, 3G/576 hrs.
Camera

5.0 Megapixel AF camera
Self Shot, Action Shot, Add me, Cartoon Shot, Smile Shot
Video

HD Video Player & Recorder (1280 x 720) @ 30fps
codec: DivX, XviD, MPEG4, H.263, H.264, WMV, VC-1
format: 3gp(mp4), AVI(divx), MKV, FLV, H.263Sorenson
Music

Music Player with SoundAlive
3.5mm Ear Jack
MP3/AAC/AAC+/eAAC+/OGG/WMA/AMR-NB/AMR-WB/WAV/
MID/AC3/IMY/FLAC/XMF
Memory

16GB/8GB+ MicroSD(Up to 32GB)
Android Browser

Flash Lite3.1, RSS reader
Multi-touch zoom

Light sensor

Accelerometer sensor, Proximity Sensor, Digital Compass
Additional Features

Layar Reality Browser powered by Tele Atlas
Swype, Write & Go
ThinkFree
Aldiko e-book

Solve your duplicate file issues

2011-01-28T20:12:00.000-08:00

I normally just blog about mobile issues on this blog but today, I wanna talk about some of the duplicate files in your PC. This normally happen to you especially if you use your mobile devices to sync with your PC and at times, you might find some duplicate files in your PC. This is quite frustrating and it makes your PC quite messy, which is something that you would want to avoid if you are always on the go and your schedule is quite tight that you won't have much time to dwell in playing with all these messy duplicate files. It can be quite a headache to look for these duplicate files and delete them but wait: you have a solution.
The software Duplicate Cleaner will help to find all the duplicate files with the check sums and those with the same file names. This is a good way for you to detect all these duplicate files and delete them. All of these could be done in a matter of time.

If you find that you have a lot of duplicate files, maybe it is time to install this software. It is compatible Windows 7. So, Microsoft fans with the trouble organizing your files, try this out and let me know what you think about it.

Why Blackberry is special?

2011-01-26T00:57:00.000-08:00

I got the idea for this blog post when a friend of mine tag me on her note regarding Blackberry.
If you are looking for the right smartphone, you probably want to consider Blackberry. However, you might probably wonder what is so good about BB? Why is it considered one of the best smartphone?
Well, if you want to know why Blackberry is special, you must first know what is "Push Technology". You probably wound want to google it so that you know about Push Technology before you continue reading.
It is what gives your Blackberry the capability to be connected to every apps all the time. And to make things even better, you will be notified if there's anything new on your facebook, twitter, email and others (such as weather, news, movies etc.)
It provides you with the information on the go...something that is very important if you travel a lot, and all the more if travelling is required in your work.
With Blackberry u are always connected to the net using BIS, and one more thing using BIS all your data connection will be compress so that you can save the kb of data u use, to make it fast and cheap....this is very important and though there are a lot of data plan that comes cheap these days, it is important to receive the data at a faster rate. Email is an instance and though you could do the same with other smartphones, Blackberry probably is the best option.
RIM's Push Email has help make emailing look like sms. Forget about syncing...it's done in a push.
Of course, the browsing, GPS, and other functionality is probably quite similar with other smartphones. Although BB might not be good and specialize in the touch screen market yet, it has prove itself to be on par with other giants with the launch of the Blackberry Torch.
I guess that's all...if all of these are important to you, then Blackberry is probably the smartphone that you should get for yourself...

HTC Desire HD is in Malaysia

2010-12-13T18:24:00.000-08:00

Well, if you are one of the Android fanatics, you are about to see the greatest Android smartphone available in the market at the moment coming from Digi...the HTC Desire HD.
And the offer is quite attractive as well. This is probably one of the must get it product, especially since Christmas is coming and most of you are probably looking forward for a new gadget during this holiday season.

HTC Desire HD on Dg Smart Plan, and the plan cost you about RM63. It is a monthly unlimited internet usage for you, something that you must have if you want to enjoy the usage of a smartphone.

The DG Smart Plan from Digi

If you are a fan of Android and prefer the HTC Sense than the Samsung TouchWiz, this should be the offer that you wouldn't want to miss. Of course, you could also get the Samsung Galaxy S for about RM2200 in SenQ and pay using ezpayment for 3 years. But it's really a fair fight between this two devices.

One thing for sure...if you love web browsing, Android, HTC sense, and the many apps available on your smartphone, then HTC Desire HD is your choice. I will blog more on the comparison between these two giants...but for now, it's great to see another good offer by Digi. Just the other day we were talking about Blackberry Torch, the best Blackberry smartphone on the market now and today, we are talking about the Android giant here, offer by Digi once again....definitely a big thumbs up!! Wondering when will Digi be bringing in Windows Phone 7 as well...

Watching Movies With Handheld TV Whenever Stuck In The Traffic Jam

2010-11-24T04:37:00.000-08:00

Movie lovers might be tempted to get a handheld TV with everything going mobile and handheld TVs are slowly getting more affordable than ever with the competition from portable media players like Ipod. However, movie lovers can still buy the handheld TV and install it in their car so that they can watch movies whenever they are stuck in the traffic jam.

The History of the Concept of Insurance

2010-11-22T04:31:00.000-08:00

We all know that we must at least Buy Life Insurance to protect ourselves and at the same time provide coverage to our family members in case of anything goes bad. We all also know that the basis of insurance is "guarantee against loss", but how many of us really know when the concept really first started?

Way back the Babylonian times which is around 2100 B.C., the Code of Hammurabi was the first basic insurance policy. This policy was paid by the traders in the form of a loan to guarantee the safe arrival of their goods by caravan. Of course, caravans faced the same kind of perils our transportation industry faces today – like robbery, bad weather and breakdowns.

As history progressed, the needs for insurance increased. The Phoenicians and the Greeks wanted the same type of insurance with their seaborne commerce. The Romans were the first to have burial insurance – people joined burial clubs which paid funeral expenses to surviving family members. In medieval times, the guilds protected their members from loss by fire and shipwreck, paid ransoms to pirates, and provided respectable burials as well as support in times of sickness and poverty.

Of course, you can do some of your research and realize that the progress and evolution of insurance has always been the same...the need for a guarantee for protection.

Nowadays, insurance has become very organize and insurance company are coming out with new ruling that don't seems to happen in the past where Life Insurance No Exam required for understanding.

For those of you in the United States of America, 1-800-939-0710 is a toll free number where clients that are looking for Term Life Insurance in United States can get a free insurance quote.

Blackberry Torch

2010-11-08T04:10:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a suitable smartphone, one of the best options is the Blackberry Torch. Celcom is the 1st in Malaysia to launch the smartphone and if you are interested in the package, here is it:

Monthly Commitment	Celcom Exec Packages	Device Price (12mth contract)
RM118	CE50 +Blackberry Lite (Broadband Entry RM38 (FUP 1 GB) + Blackberry Internet Service RM30)	RM1688
RM148	CE50 +Blackberry Pro (Broadband Basic RM98 (FUP 3 GB)+ Blackberry Internet Service RM30)	RM1588
RM250	CE250 + Blackberry Internet Service	RM1388

Monthly Commitment	Celcom Biz Packages	Device Price (12 mth contract)	Device Price (24 mth contract)
RM118	P48 + BIS Professional Lite (RM68) + SMS Pack (RM2))	RM1688	RM1488
RM148	P48 + BIS Professional (RM98) + SMS Pack (RM2)	RM1588	RM1388
RM188	P148 + BB License (RM38) + SMS Pack (RM2)	RM1488	RM1288
RM248	Celcom BIZ 150* + BB Professional (RM98)	RM1388	RM1188

You will probably be able to find this from the Celcom webpage. If you are indeed a Blackberry fan, this is probably one of the must get it Blackberry as it is dubbed as the best Blackberry ever at the moment. However, it is quite a disappointing especially with reviewers from Engadgets mentioning that the best of Blackberry might not be good enough against the other top notched smartphone. However, if you are one of the professionals who need emailing, and love to get into social networking as well, this Blackberry is a must for you.

Yes, you may be a professional but it will definitely be cool to be able to watch social media while you are resting. This is what Blackberry Torch is capable of especially since it has 8GB memory and also expandable up to 32GB with a microSD card. There is also the pinch and zoom effect.

Well, this is also the first Blackberry phone with 5MP camera and with LED flash as well, this will definitely help you capture memorable moments. There is also the continuous auto-focus and let's not forget about the image stabilization feature. Video recording is also available...you could easily capture spontaneous moments.

Social network, social network...this is something that has become a trend. Young business entrepenuers and professionals would love the feature that is in the Blackberry. Integrated social feeds...facebook, twitter, LinkedIn and many others...image the ability to gather and filter all the social network and RSS feeds in one view....(well, we know that this is something that iPhone, Android and Windows Phone 7 are capable of as well....of course, not to forget Nokia which is using the Symbian OS). Nevertheless, this feature in Blackberry is still something that makes it as competitive as the other top smartphones available in the market now.

Browsing on the internet is smooth and enriching. This is definitely important whether you are using it for business purposes or not.

Well, this is Blackberry we are talking about....so the best feature as we all know is none other than the email and text messages. With the Blackberry Torch, you could enjoy on the go email. Now this is very important nowadays even if you are not working. Most university students including myself need to check email constantly for part time work updates, assignments, and many other jobs that require emailing. Well, we all know why is the email so strong in the Blackberry...the Push technology so this is something that is going to attract people.

Other than that, we have the Voice notes available...text and sms becomes easy since the Blackberry Torch has the QWERTY keyboard as well.
Besides the design alone, the Universal Search feature available on Blackberry Torch is making it an extraordinary and wonderful smartphone. The Blackberry that must be owned I would say.

At the moment, we have the plans from Celcom which are quite attractive especially if you are a business user. Blackberry Torch in Celcom will definitely be an interesting package given that it is launched much faster than Digi and maybe Maxis as well.

If you are sick of the iPhone and iPhone look alike smartphones, Blackberry is definitely the one...a different and unique kind in comparison to the others. Probably another smartphone that is trying a different approach just as Blackberry RIM did is the Windows Phone 7...that will be left for another story though. Are you planning for a new smartphone?? If you are, Blackberry Torch might just be the right one for you.
The crazy deals offered by Celcom is definitely a worthy one given that this is the smartphone intended for business, and it is at an affordable price that you could not find elsewhere (given that Digi and other Telcos have yet to offer their plans.)

If you are a lover of movies, then you will be lucky to get 2 GSC movie tickets as well if you purchase the phone from any Blue cube outlet.

For those of you who are not keen on another contracts under another Telco, you could also buy the Blackberry Torch with a special price at RM2,188....too expensive? Well, at least it's cheaper than iPhone 4 and most of the other top Android smartphones...we have yet to hear from Maxis regarding the Windows Phone 7 packages.

So, come on...Blackberry lovers and fans...go get the best one from Celcom...be among the first to own it and show it off in front of the Apple fanatics!!

gadgets...something to follow??

2010-11-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

If you are one of those geeks who are into new gadgets, you will probably feel that there are a bit too much to follow these days. Just the other day when we heard about the Samsung Galaxy Tab, we have the Blackberry Playbook, and let us not forget about the rumour of the upcoming Ipad generation 2. Well, we also heard that Microsoft is going to launch their tablet pc based on Windows phone 7 soon. If you think that this is only the war between tablets, what about cameras? You probably be seeing new models coming out monthly.
It is hard to imagine how young people are going to follow up with all these. Just about a month ago, we have the iPhone 4...now we are hearing about iPhone 5. and don't forget that HTC also has their own superphone coming, the HTC Desire HD.
Well, we also have the Microsoft company rebooting their mobile OS with Windows Phone 7. Reviews have been good and it seems that each of these devices are lacking something. It probably mean that there are too much models to choose from...as more Android smartphones are also on the rise.
The competition is tight and more gadgets are coming up.

The question remains is this: are these gadgets gonna make mobility a convenience or simply a cool factor? The other day I was pondering on a new phone for myself but I couldn't really make up my mind due to the vast options available. At the end of the day, it is important to know which gadgets suit you and is it worth it to buy a gadget that probably would be out of date in the coming year?

I am considering buying the Samsung Galaxy Tab but with the heavy price tag, I might eventually opt to buy a cheaper smartphone instead. I know a lot of people have been talking about Apple products but seriously, the Apple products ain't my first options....after all, with the antenna issues, I don't think I will splash my cash on the new iphone 4....after all, there might just be something new in the coming months...are you following?? Maybe that's why the Windows Phone 7 ads are actually quite revelant these days....if you have time, go and view it...i might be blogging on that soon...

Digi 3G Now in Kulim

2010-10-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

It just surprise me today when I plugged my Digi 3G USB modem to my laptop and see the blue light blinking as this blue light means that I'm having 3G connection. When the Mobile Partner application loads, it is confirmed to me that Digi 3G now in Kulim as well and it means that I will have faster and stable internet connection.

First of all, I am not paid by Digi to promote the 3G service. I am writing this because I used all the broadband providers in Malaysia and Digi service satisfies me the most even when Digi has no 3G coverage in Kulim.

The first broadband service that I use is Maxis which did not last the seven days trial period last time due to lack of coverage in Kulim 2-3 years back. I still have my Streamyx service though, but sometimes when we go out of the house, we cannot use Streamyx because Streamyx is a wired Internet service, so I have no choice but to use one of those wireless broadband service that is available and that time Maxis is having promotion in my office.

Next, I switch to Celcom, which I'm quite satisfied with the service in the beginning. Slowly, the service turn from bad to worse and until I cannot bear with it anymore. Can you imagine, having HSDPA connectivity but not even successfully load a webpage while running MSN in the background or load two webpages at the same time. And if that is not bad enough, the connectivity will break like almost every few minutes and I have to keep refreshing the browser to load one webpage.

After Celcom, I decided to give Digi a try, knowing that there is no 3G coverage in Kulim. However to my surprise, the Edge connectivity that Digi has seems to be quite alright, best of all the Edge connectivity is stable compares to the HSDPA connectivity that I get from Celcom 3G. At least now I can still view few webpages and at the same time running the instant messaging in the background.

At the same time, I re-subscribe back to Maxis as one of my friend is saying that the Maxis 3G service is becoming better in Kulim recently, and yes, I can definitely tell you that I love it especially in my room where it is fast. Again, the problem that I find with Maxis is whenever I leave my room, I will be reverting back to the snail GPRS connection, unlike the Digi 3G service which I am using it to connect to the Internet now while I blogged this post. :D

If one is asking me to rate the broadband service by these three telcos, I would rate Digi the best, followed by Maxis and will advice him or her not to take up the Celcom service. In fact, I am not the only one facing problem with Celcom, my housemate is also facing the same and the move on to Maxis.

Windows Phone 7 to launch on October 21st 2010

2010-10-09T07:17:00.000-07:00

While most people are still crazy about the new Iphone 4, let us not forget that the smartphone by Microsoft will be launch in about 2 weeks time, on the 21st of October 2010 in Europe while in the US, people will be expecting it to launch on the November 8th - unless of course if there is any major delay by Microsoft which is very unlikely as Microsoft has been very adamant in making a revolution changes to its Windows phone OS.

The bad news for Malaysian is however we still do not know when we can expect the launch of Windows Phone 7, however looking by the both launch dates in the US and in Europe, we can expect it to be between end of October to November time frame.

Several things we are still not sure about the Windows Phone 7 as Microsoft has been keeping it quite secret this time around, but one thing for sure, the new Windows Phone 7 is not the old Windows Mobile phone series where people has been complaining about the UI, and the laggy interface of Windows Mobile series phones that slowly allowed Iphone and Android phone gaining more market share that Microsoft used to dominate.

HTC HD3 will be renamed to HTC HD7 to mark the flagship OS, Windows Phone 7. Some of the details of a leaked HTC HD3 or now known as the HTC HD7 are it has a 4.3 inch screen, 1Ghz processor, 5 megapixel camera, a full complement of sensors, quad-band radio frequencies and many more. Perhaps the most disappointing specs of this HTC HD7 is the processor which could be the same as the HTC HD2 and the 5 megapixel camera.

Moving forward, I will blog more about the HTC HD7, but right now I logging off to watch I Will Always Know What You Did Last Summer....

Iphone 4 Fever In Malaysia

2010-09-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

As I was writing this, many Iphone fans have already rushed to subscribe to either Maxis or Digi Iphone plan. Both launched the latest Iphone from Apple nearing last weekend and it is believed that the Iphone can help boost the subscribers of both Maxis and Digi. Both telcos are offering equally competitive plans to attract existing Iphone users and new potential subscribers that are bound to join the Iphone 4 fever.

Maxis is offering four different iValue plans ranging from RM100 to RM375 for the Iphone fans to choose from. These iValue plans are actually a combination of internet plus voice plus messaging plan into one, and what is more important is that Maxis is offering competitive discount for the Iphone 4. Best of all, Maxis is also offering 24 months contract iValue 4 subscribers free Iphone 4. This means that if heavy users can actually get their Iphone for free.

iValue plans by Maxis

For existing Maxis Value Plus plan subscribers, they can just top up iData plans and then get the Iphone at a discount as well, should they feel the need to keep to their Value Plus plan.

iData plans by Digi

For Digi, the plan is pretty much simple and straight forward compares to what is offered by Maxis. Note that Digi only offers RM200 for the Iphone 4, no matter which plan that a subscriber chooses - but the plans are a lot more affordable compares to Maxis iValue plan. The lowest plan for Digi actually starts at RM63, although one can use auto-debit and then get additional RM5 discount on top of the current RM63 plan which already having RM25 discount.

Digi iPhone plans

Both Maxis and Digi are definitely pushing all out to gain more market share with Iphone fever in Malaysia. Which plans really suit you? Well, it really depends on how individual feels as both Maxis and Digi plans have slight advantage over each plan.

To understand more on Maxis iPhone 4 plan, click Maxis iPhone 4
To understand more on Digi iPhone 4 plan, click Digi iPhone 4

Apple iphone 4

2010-09-06T20:39:00.000-07:00

If you are a fan of Apple's products, you will probably be proud of the new additional features in the iPhone 4 but with recent complaints on the antenna and proximity issues, the reputation of the loved brand might not be as strong as it used to be. Nevertheless, a lot of people love to talk about iPhone 4, including myself because it's cool.

Well, here are the addition to the coolest smartphone at the moment.

FACETIME
It helps you to video call with people who also have an iPhone. This is of course thanks to the new front camera, a new addition that many embrace and look forward to.

RETINA DISPLAY
Although I personally feel that this is over hyped by Apple's marketing team, the 3.5 inch screen of the 960 by 640 resolution definitely make graphics look extremely awesome...but really, why use retina display? it's far-fetched...

MULTITASKING DONE RIGHT
This is definitely something that is good for those who want to make use of a smartphone for proper usage besides games, cool and musics...well, Apple definitely is good at bringing things up slowly but in the right way...so a thumbs up for them here!!

HD VIDEO...
Well, if you notice, everything is about High Definition now...HD this and HD that...so it's not a surprise to know about the HD Video. With the ability to record and edit stunning video, many will be using it for video...

Well, seriously, this is one of the best smartphone available at the moment, if not the best...and you might probably wanna get a hand of it...however, I'll prefer to sit back and see if Windows Phone 7 will be able to challenge the new iPhone 4 although given the fact that there is no copy and paste functionality, Windows Phone 7 might be a generation behind.

Anyway, iPhone 4 definitely has hit the market in the right way despite of some minor issues...

iphone 4 coming to Malaysia

2010-07-31T10:12:00.000-07:00

If you have been following on the news regarding the latest iphone 4, you have probably be reading about the "death grip".
Well, this could be a heavy blow to the Apple brand as most people expect the latest iphone 4 to be the coolest. With such flaw, it could be quite inconvenient to most people.
Regardless of the issues faced, a lot of people are anticipating the arrival of iphone 4. Luckily for most people, we are seeing it coming in Maxis and Digi Malaysia. Both companies have asked people to register their interest for the iphone 4 in their websites. This could be an indication that the new iphone 4 is coming soon...stay tune!!

stay connected...

2010-07-05T12:30:00.000-07:00

The other day I was using my brother's digi broadband to go online using my HTC Trinity. Although the smartphone is pretty old in comparison to the latest gadgets and many others such as the HTC Evo 4G as well as the iphone 4, with the right application, I could easily use it to connect with my friends through Facebook, Twitter, gmail, MSN and even blogs.
Although the Internet Explorer Mobile was not that good to view blogs, I still manage to use it for light reading.
It is important for us to stay connected especially if you are one of those who are addicted to social network. In a way, it is good because it helps us to keep connected with those matters most to us.

I might be getting myself a Digi Broadband but I will need to check and see if the 3G connection in my new house in KL is good or not. As for now, I'll continue to test with my brother's Digi since he's still in US. You could check his blog in http://justblog-it.blogspot.com/

iphone 4

2010-06-29T04:41:00.000-07:00

the new iphone 4

I have not really blog about iphone 4 despite of the hype and talks about the latest gadget by Apple. From ipod classic to ipod touch, and then the iphone generations and then the ipad...finally now the iphone 4....so far, all of these gadgets have been very popular and a lot of positive feedbacks given to them.

The iphone 4 has been designed in such a way that it is the world's thinnest smartphone at the moment. Well, apparently, Apple claimed that it has retina display....and if you think that it is too far-fetched, then you might have to argue with a lot of people who seem to be impressed by it. It also has the Apple A4 Processor....which makes it possible for multitasking and Facetime calls now....impressive enough??
Well, and Apple which has always been good in the touch screen era will boast about the improved gyro and accelerometer in the new iphone. Better motion gestures and greater precision...making gaming experience a joy and satisfaction!!

For those of you who are looking to buy iphone 4 from Malaysia, you might have to wait until August, September or even until the end of the year....hopefully, we won't have to wait too long to see the offer from Digi or Maxis...

all the new phones out there but I'm sticking to my old one...

2010-06-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

I know...there are so many new phones around...and all of them come with great features.
The temptation to buy one is too great but nevertheless, if you start to think with your brain, you will realize it doesn't worth the money.

I am still using my old HTC P3600i (trinity) and for those of you who have been bored of me telling how awesome my phone is, I want you to take your time and think about the advantage that the new iphone4 has that my HTC don't have.

First of all, iphone 4 is coming up with video call (finally, thank goodness!!) but my HTC P3600i has been able to go for video call for a long time. Of course, I must give credit to the Apple mega popular phone for having a nicer camera and video...HD apparently. Here is one area that my HTC is beaten flat. Talking about other ability....multitasking...it's something that is in HTC for quite a long time. And I could even do switchprogam (similar to our desktop Alt-Tab) with my HTC P3600i thanks to the Spb PocketPlus feature.

There is still a need for the usage of stylus and I must admit messaging is not as easy as iphone probably but if you are good at using stylus, it might be quite easy for messaging as well. Battery wise, HTC P3600i has one of the best and the only time I need to be charging it consistently is when I am using it to go online all the time. (But isn't that the same for all the other phones...)
Speed wise...yah...I know...I'm way behind the latest technology but what difference does that make? Don't tell me you are going to use your smartphone to do something important that requires a fantastically fast speed. I wouldn't boast about the speed of my HTC Trinity but it definitely is good enough for daily usage.

Social networking...there are plenty of applications out there...and I could go for Facebook and Twitter as easily as one could go for it using iphone. Well, I have my Office...probably not the new one but then, it works magic....and if I get myself an external keyboard, I could work on my articles and blogs easily using my smartphone.

So, why the need for a new phone? Well, the only reason could be the cool factor and I ain't gonna dump my money in for the sake of cool...there are so many other things that might be worth the money...maybe the new Xbox and Kinect? and don't forget about the new Nintendo DS...so think before you buy.

You might be buying yourself something better with the money you save from all the unnecessary ones...connection is important but let's use it wisely. Think before you buy the new phone...don't be tricked and manipulated by the hype all around the HTC Evo 4G and iphone 4.

HTC EVO 4G

2010-06-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

Well, if you do not know about it, HTC EVO 4G is out and it is gaining a lot of popularity.
If you need any proof of these, the sales of HTC Evo 4G on its' release date is the proof of it. All of the devices disappear from the shelf in no time.
This is definitely good news for HTC and also Android....Google OS for mobile.

And there are a lot of people who opt for the HTC Evo 4G and chose not to wait for iphone 4G. Well, this is something that Apple must take note of.
Also, let's not forget about Microsoft.

Will Iphone 4G be able to attract the consumers like its' previous generation did? And can Microsoft be making a strong comeback with Windows Phone 7?

The sales definitely show that a lot of people are confident with Android platform and people love the high speed connectivity. A lot of people also know about the issues and problems Evo 4G has...the storage card bug issues and the battery issues. But knowing all these issues, people are still buying them.

It is hard to see if it's all just hype or is it because the Android phone is really that cooL??
We're all waiting to find out!!

5 HTC Windows Phone 7 on the way?

2010-06-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

Just when everyone is busy talking about Android and iphone, Windows is trying to play catch up with their latest Windows Phone 7.
Apparently, there will be 5 HTC phones running in Windows Phone 7 platform coming.

There is the HTC Gold_W (with the "W" indicating it's a CDMA + GSM world phone) headed for Sprint.
The HTC Schubert headed to Telus
HTC Mondrian for Telus and Rogers
The HTC Spark_W headed for Bell Mobility and Verizon
HTC Scorpio reaching Verizon and Bell.

There are not a lot of details on these phones at the moment but many are looking forward to see how Windows Phone 7 will develope. Although there have been a lot of criticism on these latest effort by Microsoft on mobile products, many are hoping that Steve Ballmer will finally get it right this time.

Will Windows Phone 7 help Microsoft fight back in the smartphone industry? That's something that we will be seeing at the end of the year....

22 Inch LCD TV

2010-06-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

With LCD TVs are getting cheaper each day, it is quite normal to have at least a minimum size of 22 inch lcd tv in the family room. Not only 22 inch LCD TV is affordable, but 22 inch LCD TV has decent viewing size which makes it more comfortable for the whole family to sit together and enjoy their favourite movie together.

A real frustration with HTC TyTn ii

2010-05-26T23:46:00.000-07:00

Now first of all, I know that it is probably outdated to be talking about HTC TyTn ii now that the latest HTC Evo 4G is emerging. Well, just to let those of you guys who are changing new phones all the time...it is great to be doing that...new gadgets, tech and all that are real cool. But there is always this problem. If you keep changing phones, you are actually contributing to the pollution of the environment. (I'll be starting a blog on this soon enough)

Well, saying that doesn't mean I won't change a new smartphone but let us learn to appreciate and make full use of our phones.

Well, I'm having a hard time trying to use my sis' HTC TyTn ii. I'm still using my HTC P3600i which is my love. Although the specification of these phones are not as great as iPhone, HTC Desire, Nexus One and others, with the right applications, my phone is pretty useful for everything.

Anyway, back to HTC TyTn ii. To be honest, I'm at the point of giving up. (as I suspect that the issue with the phone is hardware, and my sis phone no longer under warranty.)
I tried flashing the ROM again with the official update from the HTC page and I even asked around people in the forum.
But none of them actually solve the problems with the phone. The HTC TyTn ii has been freezing and even crash at times. This happened almost everyday. I even find it difficult to be using the SMS function.

I'll give myself another week with the phone and if it really still don't work, I might consider giving up on this project and recycle the phone instead.
Just feel the need to release the frustration...signing off now!!

the real competition in the mobile world

2010-05-09T23:24:00.000-07:00

We have heard a lot about the iphone for the past few years. Of course, it is a normal scenario given the fact that Apple products have always manage to give us surprises and the WOW! factor.
But then just as the Apple Iphone seems to be without any competitor, we have the Droid phone coming out....Google of course is at the right track.
This then leave Microsoft helpless with their old, dull and boring Windows mobile 6.5. I mean...what the heck!! the upgrade was nothing much and people hate it.
It was then that the announcement of the Windows Phone 7 being made at the WMC, World Mobile Congress. Just as Windows 7 was a hit, the WP7 seems to be on the right track as well. The WOW! factor is back....and people are starting to talk about Microsoft getting serious in the smartphone industry.
Then it was not long after that we heard about Iphone 4G and people are starting to be amazed again...although I don't see too much a difference. (forget me for being bias here) and let us not forget about iPad...the name might be quite sissy but the sales that just hit 1 million is telling us a different story.
Well, the real competition in the mobile is beginning. We are seeing a lot of major changes.
The money that you pay for your smartphone will be worthy of its' values.
For those of you who think that 2010 is awesome with all these announcements, I can tell you, 2011 brings you even more excitement.

Microsoft "Pink" is the beginning of a new mobile direction?

2010-04-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

Well, it is not a surprise to be hearing about Microsoft "Pink". After all, this was supposed to be one of the top secret under Microsoft project. Well, when Microsoft chose instead to talk about Windows Phone 7 during the MWC, it was rather a huge surprise and a big question mark on where would that leave "Pink".
That question mark is about to be answered because in less than 15 minutes, Microsoft will introduce two phones, codenamed "Turtle" and "Pure".
We have yet to know about the name of these phones and rumours about the specifications have yet to be confirmed...

2010 holds a lot of excitement for the mobile world

2010-04-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

It has been quite some time since I blog. I was busy with my studies, assignment and also helping YenLeng to prepare for her exam. Well, I also need to write a lot of articles but then it is good as it helps me to make some extra money as I have yet to receive my scholarship money.

Well, 2010 indeed holds a lot of excitement for the mobile world. First, we have the MWC that release the details about Windows Phone 7 (apparently, the series has been deleted from the name), then we have the release of Ipad (although the buzz and hype about this is not that WOW!!).
Anyway, APPLE still manage to hold something exciting for us this year with their best product, the iPhone....and it's the 4G. There are a lot of rumours about the launch of the iPhone 4G around the mid of the year.

Now, the question that is running through my head is whether Microsoft could finally beat the Apple. Well, there have been a lot of questions about the strategy to promote their products and apparently, Apple still has the edge as the Itunes provide a lot of different applications that could be very useful in our community today. Of course, Microsoft boast about the integration of ZunePlayer, Xbox Live, and apparently, the company is taking advantage of this to attract more gamers.

Well, it will still be a long way before we know who will be the NEXT thing...but one thing for sure, the date of the decisive battle between Microsoft and Apple is drawing closer...indeed, 2010 holds a lot of excitement for the mobile world!!

Windows Phone 7 or iPhone??

2010-03-10T03:19:00.000-08:00

It's funny because at one time, Windows mobile was a brand that most people would not look into as others prefer to look at Android phone, iPhone or even Blackberry. The smartphone industry is one that Microsoft has failed to penetrate into.

However, with the announcement of Windows Phone 7 series, the feedbacks and remarks have all been positive. The question now remains is whether the Windows phone could challenge iPhone in the smartphone industry. We have seen what Android phone has managed to do and the competition is getting tighter. It is not a surprise that Apple decide to sue HTC. It is after all a case of trying to dominate the market. But we have heard that Microsoft is ready to help these companies regarding the lawsuit.

That aside, Windows Phone 7 has been gaining praise for a few reasons.

Microsoft is willing to do away with the old UI and stylus style as the trend shift to touchscreen phone. The new layout that was presented to us last month was fantastic. The hubs available help made the usage of phone easier and smarter.
Then, there is the Microsoft Office Mobile, which is something that the company is very strong at. The inclusion of OneNote and the showing off of the Office function was fantastic, nice and adorable. It also helps with all the integration available via the internet.
Of course, Windows are also introducing a few new functions...we all know bout Zune player, Zune software on the computer and now Zune is coming to mobile phone. Well, it would be interesting to see how this is going to challenge the Itune of Apple.
Then, gaming is something that Windows know they are capable of challenging other companies. And it is true with Xbox. And now they are bringing the Xbox Live to Windows Phone. And more is to be told about the cool features available.
Social network integration is also a must as Microsoft recognize that.

With all these available, Microsoft is definitely ready to wrestle with Apple's Iphone. But then again, we are hearing about Iphone 4G or something like that. It would be interesting to see how the competition continue to develop.

Used cars

2010-03-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

It would be a dream come true if I could ever own a Ferrari. However, luxury cars such as these normally cost a large sum of money. With the recession hit the world lately, people are turning for cheaper alternative, which means the used cars.

Although buying used cars might not be as grand as buying new cars, it is much more cheaper and would be more suitable given our economic situation. It is even more convenient given that there are websites that sell used cars such as used ford cars, used volkswagen cars and many other options available.

The used cars section is becoming more popular given the high demand lately. Through the internet, you could easily browse and search for the cars that you need without visiting the workshop. There will be sufficient details given in the webpage.

Other options include cars such as the used BMW car, used vauxhall and even used mini cars. It is definitely a good way to buy cars without going out. With the internet and connection available, things can be done with just a click of a mouse.

Seeing value

2010-02-24T01:22:00.000-08:00

I've been talking a lot about Windows mobile and windows phone and phone. Smartphone has been the talk of this blog most of the time. Anyway I am going to write something else for a change.
I am writing this out of the excitement of seeing such offer given by an optical company. For years I've been disgusted by promotion banners and posters regarding optic products as eventually the price would be much more expensive the one offered.

With our constant engagement in the world of technology, our eyes are forced to look at the computer screen, smartphone screen and basically, our eyes are tired from all these strain. This is why optic products are of such importance even at this time.

One of the best and genuine offer that I found regarding optical products are the ones offered by Zenni Optical. The article "Cheap eyeglasses are a reality. Check out Eric's review of Zenni Optical" may sounds too good to be true but after having friends and family who go for the packages, the cool design eye glasses has helped them to save up to about 80%. The eyeglasses are also of good quality and high durability level.

In order to know why is it that the company could come out with such discounted price and yet maintain the standard and quality of their products, I google and read through Eric's reviews.

It was then that I realized that Zenni Optical uses the latest modern materials, manufacturing as well as marketing systems in order to deliver the product directly from factories to customers and. This enables the company to sells their own brand without the need to look for the services of middleman and retail overhead. The company also manage to further reduce their cost as they invest on a different advertisement strategy. Instead of paying big amount of money for advertisement company, they depend on the satisfacction of their customers and their good reviews as well as testimonials on the products.

I probably will go and get one myself soon since there's still a long wait for the Windows Phone 7 to be released. Apparently, it would be out somewhere October 2010....I might spend a bit on a new pair of eyeglasses and then start budgeting so that I could get a hand on the new phone as well. ;-)

I guess that's all for now...

The phone is not a PC

2010-02-16T18:48:00.000-08:00

The phone is not a PC. That's official now that Microsoft has unveiled their next mobile phone platform, Windows Phone 7.
And using "the phone is not a PC" as the mantra, Microsoft seems to be sure that Windows Phone 7 would be a hit.
Apparently, the company is also certain that the "web browser" on the phone would be much more advance although no statement has been made regarding the version of desktop Internet Explorer it borrows the core components.
With Windows Mobile 7, you are seeing a totally different Windows mobile. No longer do we have the old and boring UI. But if you think it's just another make up for Microsoft, then you are wrong. With strong integration with Xbox live, Zune and social network as well, we are probably looking at the next mobile platform that will stand out. And if you are thinking that Microsoft is trying to create a competitor for Iphone, then you might only guess half of it. Microsoft is playing to win with Seven.

In the congress, this is how Windows Phone 7 series were introduced: "Phones kind of look like PC...and the phone is not a PC."

And Windows Phone 7 series is giving Apple and Google everything to be afraid of. From the beginning of the introduction of Windows 7, it has only been giving the "WOW" factor.

More updates on Windows Phone 7 series will be released here.

PPP Request

2010-01-31T20:09:00.000-08:00

This is a request from PPP to add the following statement in a new post.

Doesn't euphonious remind you of an attachment

Obsession

2010-01-27T02:58:00.000-08:00

Well, it must be funny to be reading the title of the post "OBSESSION". All the more you are reading it in a blog that talks about smartphone, staying connected on the go....and many others related to technology.

Well, I guess the title come about due to my obsession with Windows Mobile and other smartphones news lately.
But then again who wouldn't be now that the business is full of challenges and it is definitely becoming more competitive now.

Now there are actually a lot of things running through my head now with the rumour about the Windows mobile 7 coming out at the end of the year becoming more rapid and talks have been Microsoft will be the next thing if Windows Mobile 7 is as good as some proclaim it to be. But hold your anticipation there...we all know that this is also not the first time Microsoft disappoints her faithful users. But then we also remember how the company turn XBox into one of the most entertaining invention of the last decade.

Speculation has been ripe for more than a year now that Microsoft is working on a new phone, hardware to rival the Apple iPhone. Project Pink has been alive, declared dead, and then brought back to life in the space of a few months. New evidence suggests that at the very least Zune is going to play a big part in Windows Mobile 7, and at most a Zune Phone could be in the offing.
Microsoft has promised to reveal something big at the Mobile World Congress event in February, but that is assumed to be the final version of Windows Mobile 7. Those assumptions, however, could be wrong, and Microsoft may actually be preparing to reveal new hardware rather than its new mobile OS.

Well, with such excitement in the news, how can one not be obsessed with it??

And then recently, I read about an article that talks about the failure of Microsoft performing has caused the sales for HTC to gone flat despite of the hot sales in smartphones. But then I guess it's great to see how much longer HTC will wait and hold onto Microsoft. Although the company might have been the reason for HTC to be one of the strong smartphone manufacturer, there is a certain patience in their wait and with Android going strong, there might just be a change.

As a WM user, I must admit that I envy the Iphone users when they show off how they play with their toys. But I definitely given the resources and financial fundamentals of Microsoft, it is definitely the right choice to believe in the next Windows Mobile. But then again, I believe it is time and there is a great need for Microsoft to start IMAGINE again, so that they could come with something new, something that transform the smartphone industry. Maybe, just maybe they might pull this through.

Anyway, besides all the news that have been capturing my attention lately, I've downloaded the apps called "EVERNOTE". It is definitely an app that helps me to take down notes and I could easily access it through the internet. The information being stored in the "cloud" seems to be the right direction and so far, I'm enjoying it on my HTC P36ooi. Now that might have been a rather old model for a smartphone but it still entertains me.

Getting a free netbook?

2010-01-24T22:44:00.000-08:00

With the economy not going too good even though many predict a growth trend for 2010, it is always wise to look for the cheapest and best bargain available. Now with our Budget 2010 specifying the need to offer cheap broadband to university students, Streamyx has a "Promotion" specially for university student.

It is only RM50 and you will get Streamyx 384kbps. No installation fee or activation fee will be charged. You will get FREE Wifi modem, a netbook delivered to your doorstep, and also Streamyx Zone ID which makes mobility possible.

However, only first or 2nd year students are offered this promotion. This offer is open to IPTA as well as IPTS students. There is a list of university students who are eligible to apply for this promotion. Feel free to log in Streamyx website to check out for more information about this website.

Now, we finally have some good PROMOTION that intends to help university students. Surely this will help them to manage their finance better as well as to have more cash in hand as they do not need to spend a few thousands for a laptop or computer.

Windows Mobile 7 to be shown in Mobile World Congress??

2010-01-21T06:50:00.000-08:00

Now there might be a lot of people who rule out Microsoft from the smartphone industry. However, it is always dangerous and stupid to forget about the biggest company in the information industry. After all, this is Microsoft we are talking about.
Even as the economy slump, the company is still very strong financially and have we forgot about how Windows 7 makes the rest of the world stand in awe again of Microsoft. Well, the smartphone industry might not be as easy as the OS especially with iphone going to go better with their version 4 for sure.

Of course, there have been rumours about the delayed of the launching of Windows Mobile 7 with some saying that it could be too late to save Microsoft. Well, the latest rumour surrounding the hype of Windows Mobile 7 is that it could be shown and mentioned of during next month Mobile World Congress which begins on the 15th of February.

There have been new rumour which says that WM7 could come into 2 different version, with one for the BUSINESS EDITION and another MEDIA EDITION. The one that many would look forward to would be the ME as much changes have been said being made to make WM7 the next HiT to revive Microsoft in competing with Iphone, Blackberry and others.

The mobile OS may come with a variety of different features including an impressive mobile version of Office, online collaboration, high-definition video, Xbox Live, and streaming TV, according to WM Experts, a Windows Mobile news site.

It is said that it is likely that Microsoft would show off part of WINDOWS MOBILE 7 during the MWC this year. Well, it is definitely something that we should look for...after all, it is the competition that set a higher level for the smartphone industry.

Apple Iphone takeover...

2009-12-20T00:23:00.000-08:00

Apple Iphone takeover...in just 30 months.

If you are wondering what sort of takeover, it simply means that Apple Iphone is now taken over Microsoft Windows mobile operating system in terms of smartphone market in the US (this from metric firm comScore's latest measurement of operating systems actually in use by customers by sampling techniques, not overall device shipments or sales by wireless carriers.)

That is right. Windows can curse themselves for the stagnation although after existence for about a decade. Then there is Android. Google's slew of Android-based devices will ensure Microsoft won't have an easy time as customers shrug off the old and dusty for something new and shiny.

The question remains is will Microsoft survives in 2010? We have some people predicting the downfall of one of the strongest information industry based company. While some others are convinced with Windows Mobile 7 which is highly rated but a fall on the up and coming products might mean it is finished for Microsoft in the smartphone industry.

Well, it is indeed interesting to follow at the smartphone industry as we are seeing so much development at the moment. While Steve Ballmer might have insisted that Microsoft will continue to invest in this market, it will be interesting to see how the company is going to bring about a new change in their upcoming Windows Mobile 7. Let us anticipate that in year 2010 while we hope the companies will ponder on their mistakes and development in 2009.

More from Windows Mobile

2009-11-25T02:44:00.000-08:00

What is more from Windows Mobile??

Patches from Microsoft...

You probably are thinking that you will have to wait for Windows mobile 7 to come out to enjoy the best from Microsoft but the company has been constantly upgrading Windows mobile 6.5 ever since the launching.

With so many negative comments, it is normal to see the company response.

As of now, we are already hearing about the leaked Windows Mobile 6.5.3.

It is surprising because so far, Windows mobile 6.5 is out less than 3 months.

The series of leaked builds for Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system seems to be adding newer items, with the latest leak being Build 28004, reportedly part of the Windows Mobile 6.5.3 variant. Those of you who kept an eye over the leaked series of builds for the platform should know already that the new one follows shortly the leaked Build 28002 for Windows Mobile 6.5.3 that surfaced only a few days ago. Windows Mobile 6.5.3 Build 28004 is said to come with rather minor changes, nothing striking, yet there are still a series of graphic enhancements, as well as performance improvements that should be noted. One of the main features of the new build is said to be the finger-friendliness it adds to Microsoft's mobile operating system, though this is actually a characteristic of the entire Windows Mobile 6.5.3 flavor. Previously leaked builds, as many of you might already know, came from the 6.5.1 branch of the platform, and there are no exact details on why the numbering scheme jumped straight to 6.5.3, leaving 6.5.2 aside. However, the Windows Mobile 6.5.3 flavor seems to come with touch enhancements, including gesture support, a Start menu placed at the lower left corner, with enlarged menus and rebuild sub-sections. The new Windows Mobile 6.5.3 Build 28004 is dated November 19, something that, according to the guys over at MWExperts, suggests that it includes the latest changes in the platform. The WM 6.5.3, which is said to be the latest branch of COM builds, aimed mainly at testing various features on the OS, is somehow faster than the Windows Mobile 6.5 version that reached the market on October 6. A series of cooked ROMs for different Windows Mobile-based mobile phones on the market already emerged, one of which has been 'developed' for Sprint's Touch Pro 2 and which reportedly includes HTC Sense 2.1, Office 2010, Opera 10, and a series of graphics improvements. Those who are not familiar with the installation process of these ROMs should think twice before starting the process.

Of course until today, we know that blogging from Windows mobile and Iphone are totally different feel...one is filled with satisfaction and another frustration...it's something that Microsoft will still need to work on. Hopefully we'll see the solution in the Windows Marketplace.

"What is Next?"

2009-11-20T22:16:00.000-08:00

It is surprising to be reading about the development of technology today because at one point we talk about Iphone 3GS, then the next, we talk about Android Phone, then we have Blackberry, Windows Mobile 6.5 and in a matter of time, we will talk about Windows Mobile 7.

No wonder Apple CEO, Steve Jobs are known for his approach: "What is NEXT?" He is constantly thinking of what is next to make our lifestyle more convenient. No wonder he deserved the award as FORTUNE's CEO of the decade.

We’ve seen the odd Windows Mobile 7 leak popping up over the last few weeks, but now Microsoft has hinted at when we’ll be seeing more details get the red stamp and made official. Read on for the full details.

Neowin is on the ground at the Professional Developers Conference in Los Angeles at the moment, where it reports Microsoft Office VP Kurt Delbene said that Windows Mobile 7 will be unveiled in March next year, at Microsoft’s MIX conference in Las Vegas.

Expecations have been high on Windows Mobile 7...especially since news about the success of Microsoft Windows 7 seems to suggest that Microsoft is finally ready to launch the mobile OS that is competitive enough with Android, Blackberry and even Iphone.

We also have news about Microsoft Natal Project and so far, it seems that the company is finally back at the right track under Steve Ballmer.

There are of course more to come...and I believe even for us as consumer the right question to ask would be: "What is NEXT?"

Windows 7

2009-10-23T20:45:00.000-07:00

I know much have been said about WindowsPhone and while we are talking about mobility, I couldn't resist the temptation to blog about Windows 7. Well, after all, it's been years since the devastated Vista been the talk of the town. Critics, complaints, frustrations seem to sum it all.
However Vista probably was the turning point for the company to start everything afresh.

With so many issues to deal with, Steve Ballmer must be glad that finally the results might just be starting to come in. The company known for their competitiveness in all fields, from PC OS, we see the challenge in the browser where IE finding hard to beat rival Mozilla Firefox as well as Google Chrome. Then Microsoft did well to be in the game industry with XBox. Then there is the new search engine Bing that is up for the challenge against Google for the first time...and now, we have Windows 7.

Why the need to talk about Windows 7 here? Simply because Microsoft must come in a package. Which is why they probably remain of the biggest company that could bring revolution in the phone industry. If you have been following the news, you will realize that WindowsMobile 7 will come with Xbox Live. Which is why the development of Windows 7 is important because that will also determine the direction of WindowsPhone.

Now, I would like to start by CONGRATULATING the company for their consistent effort to put Vista into their history books and with Windows7 out on the street now, response have been nothing but a thumbs up!! Critics love it...business needs it...here is the revival of Microsoft!!

Now comes the hard part: ensuring that the product is the sort of substantial hit that Redmond needs in order to reverse 2009's declining revenue trend, as well as prove to both the tech sector and the public at large that the era of the desktop operating system has not yet passed.

That might be a tall order, but Microsoft took steps during the Windows 7 development process to ensure that the platform wouldn't be Vista, Part 2.

Early signs seem to indicate that they've succeeded in creating something that people find usable, not to mention aesthetically pleasing. Reviews of the operating system have been generally respectful. For what it's worth, Microsoft also conducted its own internal survey of "thousands of people" involved in the Windows 7 beta process. Of those surveyed, they said during a pre-brief before the Microsoft launch, 90 percent of those who tested the operating system thought the system was "good or very good," and 80 percent of "people self-identifying as Mac users" said they would recommend the system.

Some 8 million people participated in the Windows 7 beta process.

Now I can go on about it in my blog here but what's the fun of reading about it and not having one for yourself?

Let's talk about applications...

2009-10-23T11:23:00.001-07:00

I know I have mentioned about some of the important application that you must have in your device...I mentioned 5 applications that you must have in your device and really that will help your WindowsMobile run better. Now of course, there might be some of you who are not convince of the reliability of WindowsPhone...well, what the heck...there is always an issue with lagging right? and what about the UI that most people hate so much when they talk about Windows Mobile 6.1. Of course, 6.5 has come with the solution. You can read an interview regarding 6.5 here...

Anyway today, while I want to talk about applications, I want to share a few software company that has been the producing cooL apps, whether it for Windows, Blackberry or even Iphone.

Now the first one that I would mention is definitely none other than SPB Software.

Among the cool softwares introduced by the company is SPB MOBILE SHELL 3.5.
Besides that, the other cool softwares available are:
2) SPB Wireless Monitor
3) SPB Phone Suite
4) SPB News

Of course, there are also softwares like SPB Weather, Wallet, Traveller and many others.
In fact, I have all of these softwares. But if you are not sure if you want to purchase them, try their trial download version first from their webpage.

Now, another software company that I would recommend is VITOTECHNOLOGY.

Among the popular softwares here are:

* Audio Notes
* Audio Notes Touch
* AstroNavigator
* Communication Suite
* EyePhoto
* FunContact 3x
* GoodWin
* RingtoneEditor
* SoundExplorer
* SMS-Chat
* Task2Gather
* Voice2Go
* VoiceDialer
* Weather
* Winterface
* ZoomBoard

Well, from some of the websites that I have gone through and as I learned from the XDA developer forum, I realized that sometimes, applications are not about numbers alone. No doubt about the great number of applications in Iphone and how it could easily be searched by Itunes...Windows Market Place is a long way to go in comparison to that but maybe all that is needed are the popular apps and making sure that there are more of these cools one coming in.

Now, when I said talk about applications, I did not mean we just simply talk about any...we pick some of the best and we talk about it here...just as we pick some of our favourite and purchase it. So, for those with Windows Phone, don't feel down if you don't have that much apps in WindowsMarketPlace...google what you need and you might just find it as easy as you do it with Itunes.

Windows Mobile 7

2009-10-23T10:50:00.001-07:00

Now we know many have been talking about 6.5 recently and in fact, while I just finished updating on my latest post regarding 6.5, I'm already being amazed by something more that will be coming up with Windows Mobile 7.

We know that we want our mobile phone to be user friendly...that we could be using it for multi-purpose, any time any where....that sort of functionality seems to make life easier. While 6.5 might barely able to do that, Microsoft is rumoured to be adding some new features to the upcoming Windows Mobile 7 operating system as part of their mission to make the OS the most user friendly yet. We have just learned that the new platform will include Xbox Live – something that there has previously been a lot of speculation about, but has now been officially confirmed thanks to two job postings by the company.
One of these ads read as follows: “We are seeking a technically savvy Developer Account Manager to own and drive the relationship with our top mobile entertainment development partners. You will work closely with our Business Account Management teams, Engineering support teams, Windows Mobile and Xbox LIVE platform teams as the advocate for your partners to drive solutions to their development needs. You can be a key part of making gaming on Windows Mobile a continued success!

You will help raise the bar of gaming on Windows Mobile, and help drive adoption of our unique platform features in our partner’s games.” – Short of Microsoft issuing a press release stating the fact that this is happening, it really doesn’t get any more official than this.
We don’t actually know right now exactly what Xbox Live and the Windows Mobile 7 operating system will share, but it is likely to be pretty impressive. Microsoft is becoming more and more aggressive in their attempts to make Windows Mobile 7 perfect, which is understandable considering the “Meh” reaction that the recent release of Windows Mobile 6.5 was met by.
If they continue their devotion to making the platform truly spectacular we’re sure they can achieve success with it; and actually win over some new customers, something version 6.5 did not do well at.

Now if you think 6.5 has missed the mark, then what about windows mobile 7?
I bet we wouldn't be seeing anything with XboX for iPhone or Android?

So, why am I stating my case strongly for Microsoft...not because I'm a fan of the company, or neither do they pay me a single cent but let us know that this corporate giant has what it takes to create a NEW GENERATION of mobile phone...bringing MOBILITY into the next stage...the WindowsPhone is the future phone...that would be my verdict.

Windows Mobile 6.5

2009-10-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

Is the new Windows Mobile good enough to compete with Iphone, Android and other smartphones? But surprisingly enough, Microsoft admit that they are not there to compete with Apple at the moment.

Below is the interview from TechRadar.

TR: How does Windows Mobile fit into the current market?

AR: It's aimed at people who want smart device for work, then when they're on their way home, they want a great smart device too.

This means Exchange email, company database access, IM through company system, then at home you want Facebook, Windows Live Mail, Gmail instead. It's not about the phone, it's about who wants to use it, most people who I know who are interested in a Windows Phone want it for both work and home.

It's easy to make assumptions about people, and then we don't deliver for actual, real users. They want these services, being able to sync to the cloud if they lose their phone, can then get their stuff back, share photos without a degree in IT, have the same browser favourites on PC and phone. It's not rocket science what we're trying to do.

DW: If look at today's marketplace, Microsoft is traditionally positioned with RIM with BlackBerry in terms of enterprise devices. If you look on the extreme other side, we've got Apple and Android coming in, and Nokia too. Everyone is now trying to move towards the middle, so when you walk into work you only have one device [that is good enough for both work and home].

That way you can get email, have a good UI experience, and still install some good applications that you discuss with mates in pub. We no longer see it as a consumer or business device, we're terming it as "life maximiser", where people maximise their life in work and maximise their life at home.

We see Windows Mobile 6.5 as a long term strategy, with future releases coming up, so we're not competing against Apple at the moment, because they've got a vertical strategy where they've got one phone, they can write software to exploit all that hardware on that device and they can do some really whizzy stuff which we can't do.

Why aren't you competing with Apple?

DW: We currently work with 55 OEMs who have 155 devices running Windows Mobile, with each different hardware component written by a hardware manufacturer. To write the software to exploit all those manufacturer IDs, well, you couldn't write it, as you'd just end up with a PC.

Our competitor in the market is RIM and Nokia, even though doing some stuff with them [the recent deal to install Microsoft Office on future Nokia handsets].

At the moment, Nokia is losing market share left, right and centre; it's gone from 63% to 46% [worldwide] in just over 18 months. Competitors are stealing a march, and we need to do that with 6.5 too.

Would you agree Windows Mobile 6.1 came in for a lot of criticism?

AR: 6.1 was a successful product for us, sold a lot of phones as a 'rational' purchase [ie users who needed the Windows Mobile features] and to business. Now we need to earn consumer trust and affection, we have their trust through our brand but they probably don't love what we do [in the mobile space].

But the user experience is now very nice, and we're stating 'We know we've got to earn everyone's trust in this market, and we've really got to set out to do that and build awareness, desire and trust for device.'

The fact consumers only have a 10 per cent awareness of Windows Mobile is very low, and that's probably because we've aimed primarily at the business user. The reality is if we're going to drive market share and gain a stronger position with consumer, we need a more emotional connection to the mobile brand.

Windows mobile 6.5

Is Windows Mobile 6.5 not just a touch-friendly upgrade from 6.1?

DW: While the UI is important to consumers, Windows Mobile 6.5 is more than just that. There's been fundamental engineering going on around the OS, it's got better battery life, better handling of services, we've improved the number of apps it can run, so it's more than that.

Is it revolutionary? No, it's an evolutionary part of the journey, but we've got to start somewhere. Yes, the UI is more touch-friendly for people to use, and we're exploiting the capabilities of 6.1, it's just we haven't exposed those in the way people want as yet.

How do you react to the early criticism of Windows Mobile 6.5, with some stating it's still not good enough for users?

AR: I would implore anyone to use it for a while before passing judgement, as I don't understand the criticism. It's just a nice product to use, it doesn't claim to be anything it isn't, if you only have negative feelings about it I would say use it – use MyPhone, use Marketplace and use the new UI and then come back and tell me it's not good, because it is.

For instance, my wife is a user of the product and she doesn't work for Microsoft or anything. It's easy to use right out the box, does what it says on the tin.

Are the skins being put on top of the OS, for instance Samsung's TouchWiz and HTC's TouchFlo 3d, annoying?

DW: Yes, it is frustrating, but all these manufacturers are looking for differentiators in the market. However, we hope that customers will go to the phone's settings [to see the original Windows Mobile 6.5 UI], we're going to push the marketing on that, to educate them about the fact that option is there. The they can decide whether they like TouchWiz, or TouchFlo, and choose for themselves.

Windows mobile 6.5

How will Bing be integrated into Windows Mobile 6.5 phones?

DW: Bing mobile will offer local search and location services, so if you were in London and wanted a pizza, you could search and get directions from the phone. It's all about finding locations.

It will be a Windows Mobile marketplace download, we actually finished the OS before they made Bing, so it will be made available for OEMs to install on their phones too.

However there are core things that have to be installed on every Windows Mobile 6.5 handset, such as Marketplace and MyPhone, and these will also be available as a download to Windows Mobile 6 and 6.1 devices.

What do you make of the likes of Samsung, which supports five operating systems in its handset range?

DW: It's good for the consumer, as they get choice. But we're now at this inflexion point, which you see in multiple industries, where there will be multiple players jostling for position.

And we're very good at competing in area, so while there will always be a place for alternative systems, like Linux and Apple jostling with us, the number will be down to two or three major players in there market over the next three or so years.

There's no world a mobile operator can sustain and test all mobile operating systems, and there's no way a hardware manufacturer can exploit or continually keep testing five or six operating systems.

At the moment everyone is investing in that marketplace, creating an opportunity where a good open platform is available for people to develop on top of.

Android has done well, and now the Chrome OS has been announced, there will be plenty of connection. How do you react to that?

DW: Well, Google is our number one competitor, in terms of the PC space, but not mobile. However, we are keeping a close eye on developments [with Chrome OS], although our number one competitor is RIM.

Windows mobile 6.5

Will we see any 6.x updates to Windows Mobile before the release of WM 7?

DW: There will be service packs for Windows Mobile that we'll be releasing. There will be things like new hardware with capacitive screens coming down from some companies, and we can exploit that by tweaking the OS to allow Windows Mobile to have capacitive touch.

But essentially for the end user, 6.5 is the release, and there will be some minor maintenance updates for OEMs. Is there a major release or another update will be made known to consumers? No, it will only be tweaks.

Apple do very good job [in hyping up incremental firmware updates], they release a new version of the firmware and it's got cut and paste in it, which we had for years, and the media love it.

But our next major release will be Windows Mobile 7.

AR: The production line of software is never ending. In the the olden days you developed software, you launched it, then moved on to the next one. Now you can't do that, it's a constant production line of innovation, not just waiting for next big thing.

Doubtless one day we'll get to the point where we can attach another integer to the product, and we can say we're at the next version, but really have to stop thinking about the OS in that way.

It is hard because we know we've propagated this way of thinking, but the truth is the whole market will be about constant innovation, and if you don't, you will be left behind.

Does the media coverage of the Apple iPhone firmware updates annoy you?

DW: Yeah, and they do a great job at it. We need to learn from it, to be truthful about it, we should be doing the same. But I don't think we've been in a position to do it, for instance with 6.1, we were never in a position to do updates or make important announcements.

How will you differentiate Windows Phone when there's WM 6.5 and 7 on offer?

DW: Consumers are moving away from versions – they don't want speeds and features, they want to know what it can do for them. So each phone will be sold as having these capabilities, whatever feature set, so it's positioned in the market as what it can do, not what version it will be, because that means nothing to consumers.

All the research we've done shows that, yet still see it with PCs; we still see them advertised with Pentium processor, or Core 2 duo processor. But it should be whether the device is great for photography, browsing, gaming, which is what we're trying to change in the market.

But surely, like with Vista and Windows 7, they'll want to know what version is under the hood?

DW: Will be branded as a 'Windows phone', and then the retailer can say it's 'powered by 6.5 or 7' etc. The primary brand is Windows phone, and retailers can use the operating systems for differentiation. It is a difficult one though.

As much as people might criticize the development of Windows Mobile 6.5...after all, it took them quite a long period for this upgrade but while many felt that it is only a cosmetic upgrade, Windows 6.5 definitely set the direction for Microsoft in the phone industry.

And yes, much has been said about Windows Mobile 7 and although many felt it will be a little too late for Microsoft...but let us not say so much until it really happens...

Turning your WindowsMobile into super SMARTPHONE

2009-10-02T08:59:00.000-07:00

First of all, what is the one difference that most smartphone users don't realize about WindowsMobile? Well, simple: you can see LG using the same OS, as well as HTC. But does that happen to the Apple Iphone?? No!!

Anyway that's for another post.

Well, if you felt that WindowsMobile ain't providing the kind of cooL touching feel, then think again because with just a bit of genius in you, you could create a super SMARTPHONE.

The first software that is a must for your WinMo to challenge Iphone cool touch effect is: SPB MOBILE SHELL...and the latest version 3.5 brings some HERO sense to you as well.

For those of you who wanna know some of the stuff about SPB Mobile Shell 3.0, then feel free to look into my post here: SMS like an IPHONE

Well, of course it was mainly about VITO SMS CHAT but how I modify and integrate it with SPB MOBILE SHELL.

1)Anyway, like I said, the first important software that you need to have is SPB MOBILE SHELL 3.5. The few reasons why this is important is because it is touch friendly. It helps to make your user interface friendly and thus, making it extremely easy to navigate your SMARTPHONE.

the improved weather widget...

Now you can have favourite photos for you, and check out what happen when you click on it

and you can slide it into this NEXT:

Well, it is very smooth and you can slide it easily, something like what you do with your iPhone!!

2) The number 2 priority: VITO SMS CHAT
Well, this is what will help you to have a nice threaded sms. And if you look through my previous post, you can actually have an iPhone SMS skin...you could easily monitor your messages through this software.

3) Skype Mobile
Now you might wonder why Skype is important. At this age, you will find that there are so many inlimited GPRS usage being provided by Telco companies. For one example, I'm using RM30 per month for an unlimited DATA usage with my DIGI CAMPUS. Now, practically, you are turning your pocket pc into a skype phone except that there ain't any video call. Wouldn't this mean free calls if everyone start practice this? Sounds too good to be true? Well, you can try it on your smartphone and see the difference!!

4) WindowsLiveMessenger, Facebook and Twitter

Now, who could live without connection with the outside world and now, all these three apps are easily available for your pocket pc and it is convenient for touch usage...

5) SPB KEYBOARD

Now another important and crucial part that WindowsMobile lose on is the Keyboard. It is never convenient for people and it has been difficult to message without looking at it. But with SPB Keyboard, you can actually message without looking at your screen...Helpful when driving? Lol!!

Well, you will find more details about these softwares in the UpCOMING Post...while we anticipate for the lauching of Windows Mobile 6.5.

Now what about iPhone? Is WindowsMobile out of the picture already?

2009-10-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

So you've heard about it...the craze and hoo haa over the

Well, it might have been a while now since the launching of iPhone 3GS and many fanatics of Apple are talking about the cooL features in the new iPhone. I won't deny that....Apple is always the pioneer for cooL and excellent interface, be it for smartphones or for PC.
I remembered that just the other day, Addie told me that HTC launched the HTC Hero which is also very cooL! Now I don't have anything against cooL features but sometimes the word cool is not enough. We must look at how the usage could impact and be of usage to us.

Now who wouldn't be fascinated by the awesome look in iPhone.

Well, personally I'm not an iPhone user so it would be extremely unfair for me to critic one of the most popular smartphone in the market at the moment. But here's a piece of advice for those who are totally crazy about iPhone.

The first issue with the new iPhone: OVERHEATING!!

Some owners of the iPhone 3GS are finding their devices overheating, MacNN can confirm. Public accounts of problems originated in France, where one 16GB 3GS user has noted that his phone ran unusually hot during recent testing. The owner later discovered pink-tinged marks on the white backing of his device, roughly surrounding the location of the battery. A MacNN staffer has meanwhile encountered the problem independently, with discoloration noticeable on the back of a white 32GB unit. A PC World author, Melissa Perenson, claims to have experienced a more serious incident while playing The Oregon Trail. Though her 16GB black phone's backing did not change color, the device as a whole is said to have heated up dramatically, to the extent that placing it against her face would have been painful. The phone was plugged into a wall socket during use.

Now if this is not an important issue, what else could it be? Of course I believe there are people following up on such reports and the issue might be fixed within months.

But what about USAGE?

Now, overall, what you can do with your iPhone, it can also happened to another smartphone although interface wise, iPhone wins it all for sure.
But bluetooth....what about bluetooth....can you imagine a SMARTphone without Bluetooth to still be called smart? No way...it is one weakness that will always haunt iPhone until they change it.

And who could imagine that iPhone will have issues with BATTERIES!!

Continued complaints by iPhone owners about fast-draining batteries have prompted Apple to ask some users to install power-logging software on their smartphones in an effort to diagnose the problem, according to messages on the company's support forum. "Some of you may already have been informed via e-mail [by Apple], but for those of you that haven't, I can assure you that Apple is trying to get to the bottom of this problem," said a user identified as "mikefradette" Friday on a support thread dedicated to poor battery performance. "Let's just say they have selected a beta group to help solve this issue."

Now this is bad news!!

Others reported that technical support representatives had asked them to install Apple software that logs application usage and power consumption. Apple technical support has also used an 11-item questionnaire in its discussions with users in an attempt to figure out the cause of rapid battery drain, including questions about Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and e-mail use.

"There's still no smoking gun," said Aaron Vronko, the CEO of Rapid Repair, an iPhone repair shop. "But the processor in the iPhone 3GS can use 50% more power in some situations than its predecessor. I'd bet that Apple missed some key interactions between the iPhone's software and the processor in the last update that causes it to over-utilise the CPU, especially since [the complaints] came after the software update."

And what about MICROSOFT??

Now, regular readers of my blogs would realized that I personally prefer to use Microsoft. Of course, this bias opinion has everything to do with my admiration for the founder, Bill Gates. Despite the lack of touch functionality, it has been rather efficient.
Of course if I were to talk about the buggy softwares with Windows Mobile, there probably will be more than the iPhone issues here.
And lately, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer made a rather frank admission, not to the press of course, that Microsoft "screwed up with Windows Mobile." Is this bad news then??

Well, there is one thing that we all should know...Microsoft has the money to keep them alive in this battle. They also have the resources. Therefore, to say that WindowsMobile is out of the race would be a bit too early. And of course, there have been good news about Windows Mobile 7 and although Windows Mobile 6.5 has yet to be released, talk has been going on about WinMo 7 and hopefully, it will be good news.

Why CONNECT?

2009-09-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

The internet has been the source of entertainment, information as well as connection for the Y-Generation. In fact, it is almost impossible to have any young adults to be computer illiterate. Of course, all these contribute to the hot demand of new products to keep up with iPhone features such as the new Nokia N97.

Celcom is also offering more promotions for mobile phones like Blackberry Curve, N97 and others which normally requires a high usage of data plan.

Looking at the mobile phone trends, we can see how the demand goes towards CONNECTIVITY. Even Telco companies such as DiGi realized the importance of connectivity that they introduce DiGi Windows Live Messenger. The online community has been so established that people kept going for more. Another established online network can be seen through Facebook. The importance of keeping in touch seems to be enhanced with this network. Not to forget about the popular Twitter that also updates the latest news for superstars.

There are also the bloggers who consistently update their post, contributing to the crowded network.

Now of course, all these might be cool but the question that really should come out of this realization is how much effective and useful is all these connectivities. Is it really matter to be in CONNECTION constantly? Now that is something that we will attempt to answer in the long run....keep this post in mind while I post more on the latest features for WindowsMobile, Symbian OS as well as the iPhone. Of course, other gadgets that is interesting will also be mentioned but let this be a reminder for us as we continue this journey of CONNECTION. How important is all these?

You can connect but you can't move...what's the point!! Now, everything will change...

2009-09-27T01:08:00.000-07:00

Imagine if you are in Paris, waiting for the countdown for the New Year celebration...
The atmosphere and the surroundings are cooL and you thought of showing it to your buddies back in Malaysia. But you know you will need to wait to get right back into your hotel before you post updates of photos in your Facebook, Twitter or even chat with your buddies on MSN.

But now that is of course something of the past.
In recent years, we have seen a new appeal and need for data connectivity with mobile phones. In fact, iPhone and AT&T in the USA are offering such fantastic deals for unlimited connectivity. Back in our hometown, we have Maxis offering a great deal to customers as well. And clearly, the battle is obvious between the three biggest telco company in Malaysia, Celcom, Maxis as well as Digi. Not forgetting the existence of P1WiMAx in Malaysia has also offered a more competitive market.

I am a user of Digi and thanks to DigiCampus, unlimited connection has been made possible with only RM30. Of course, the speed of connection ain't explosive but bearable. After all, it wouldn't make much difference since I'm using my HTC for connection, meaning simple update of status, checking of emails etc.

The world is changing and it is only a matter of time where connectivity will be even easier and faster. It might even come cheaper.
It was only a few days ago that MICROSOFT announced the new WindowsMobile 6.5 will be released by end of October but what is even more exciting for Mobile users is that the biggest and most successful company, Microsoft CEO Steve Balmer has continued to stress the willingness and participation of this company.
Rumours of the coming WindowsMobile 7 is even more exciting. With the fundings and capital that Microsoft has, it might not be long before WindowsMobile be on the challenge against Symbian OS and iPhone as well.

Credit must of course goes to these developers that continued to be innovative in their research.
The iTune offered by Apple that comes with so many applications for iPhone has caused Microsoft to attempt a similar effort although all of these has yet to be finalized. But it is really interesting to see how these companies will continue to develop in the next few years.