Tech Reviews

Telecommute from a Tropical Island!

Guest Post — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 21:00:46 +0000

Telecommuting allows employees and business owners to break free of the chains of an office and do their work from home. However, most people just relocate to their homes and reattach the chains! With the right tools, you can do your work from anywhere, potentially opening up the possibility of unlimited travel while maintaining your regular income.

While it is easy enough to check your e-mail from your smart phone when you are away from home, it is not easy to be as productive as you want when your computer isn’t connected to your business’s network. Thankfully, telecommuting has come a long way since the 1990s, and employees and business owners can now bring their computers and internet connections with them, wherever they go.

Thanks to technological developments, such as Clear Internet, which allows you to have a wireless satellite connection, you can telecommute from anywhere in the world. This includes your car, a hotel room, or even the beach. You can work while travelling, on vacation, or while running errands around the neighborhood. This is great for people who want or need the freedom to be able go anywhere without losing their connection.

Maybe you need to meet face-to-face with one client 15 minutes before you are scheduled to have a Skype meeting with another client. While this would normally not be enough time to get back for your second meeting, wireless mobile Internet allows you to do both things on time. No more rescheduling meetings to ensure for travel time between locations. You can now bring your office with you wherever you go.

The more options you have, the more productive you can be. This is why it’s so important to have mobile Internet.Clear Internet is so important to any professional who telecommutes on a regular basis. You can submit proposals while you are at your kid’s soccer practice or listen in on a company meeting while you are waiting at the doctor’s office. When you have truly unlimited access to the Internet, there’s nothing you can’t do. You can be productive even while taking care of life’s contingencies.

HTC Unveils New HTC Sensation 4G at a Launch Event in the U.K.

John — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 17:16:36 +0000

The Sensation 4G is the latest smartphone of HTC that is based on the Android operating system. The mobile device is available in the market. It was unveiled at a launch event which was held in the UK.

The smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm dual-core processor. Moreover it is based on the latest operating system of Android, i.e. Gingerbread

The Sensation boasts of a 4.3-inch qHD display that has the resolution of 960-by-540 pixels. Due to the qHD display the handset is narrower and it is easier to navigate as well as hold in one hand.

The Sensation 4G is offered with the latest version of the Sense user interface that comes with a brand-new customizable lock screen. Users are able to choose a theme for their lock screen and then choose four apps that are visited by them most. Moreover, Sense features a spruced-up Walls system. Users will also notice a clutch of new widgets.

The Sensation is available with the new movie as well as TV show streaming service of HTC, which is known as Watch. Users are provided with an opportunity to download videos from the service.

The smartphone is equipped with an 8 MP camera located on the back of the handsets as well as a front-facing camera that can be used for video chat.

Apart from having impressive specs, the Sensation showed a big difference in performance between Verizon’s LTE network as well as T-Mobile’s HSPA+ network.

Customers will be able to buy the HTC Sensation 4G from stores of T-Mobile this summer. Unfortunately, the company has not yet revealed pricing details of the handset. One can also expect the Sidekick as well as LG G2X in the near future from T-Mobile. In fact, the carrier is readying a strong portfolio before merging with AT&T.

Variety of Cases for Your iPad 2

John — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:16:58 +0000

It is time for another roundup of iPad cases which can be chosen by serious iPad owners. You will find some cases that are created for maximum protection.

Autum has developed a Turncout. It is a case that has a price tag of $144 price. It is a stylish black-leather offering which can be used not by everyone. What is good about the Turncout is that it can be used for the original iPad as well as iPad 2. The Turncoat is available with suede and soft interior. It comes with four hand-fastened straps.

As for AviiQ, it is offering the Smart Case. It is available for $50. The case is created specifically to complement the Smart Cover, designed by Apple. The Smart Case feels and looks like the protector of Mothership. It is available in the following color options: green, black, blue, grey, pink, orange as well as red. It is made of anodized-aluminium construction which is combined with rugged plastic, due to which the tablet is enabled with maximum protection.

The EliteFolio Carbon Fiber Case was created by Innopocket. It is able to rotate a full 360 degrees. It can be used as a stand in a range of positions. If you are interested in the product, you can now preorder it. It is expected that it will be available around the end of April.

The iPad Case of Killspencer is considered to be actually a bag that is enabled with a range of pockets that can be used for personal items. It is designed for the original iPad as well as iPad 2. It is offered in four different options, such as black leather, black twill as well as canvas salvaged.

NYC Subway Line has created the Neoprene iPad Case. It has a price tag of $32. It is considered to be a neoprene sleeve case that is enabled with a full-color print of the entire New York City subway system. Moreover, it is equipped with a single-color print.

Google Releases Three Android Features Designed for Business

John — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 17:42:57 +0000

Google revealed three updates for its Android for Business portfolio. The updates are targeted at connecting with colleagues and security. They will be offered to all customers of Google Apps for Education and Google Apps for Business.

The Google Apps Device Policy is the first app that has received an upgrade. With the help of this app an admin is able to remotely wipe data, set the minimum level of security for a password as well as lick idle devices. With the upgrade employees are provided with an opportunity to locate stolen or lost device on a map, reset the device password or PIN remotely as well as ring the device via the new My Devices Website.

It should be mentioned that users will be able to take advantage of these features only with devices that are based on Android 2.2 Froyo or higher version. One can find several third-party apps that can provide with similar features, but still it is nice that Google includes this into core functionality of Android, which will facilitate corporate integration.

As for the second update, it is possible for Google Apps administrators to encrypt data on tablets running Android 3.0. It is a big deal for tablets that are already available in the market. Unencrypted data, which can be stored on devices, has been regarded as one of the main obstacles for Android’s integration into the corporate ecosystem. It means that people who are using tablets for business can take advantage of more options that are more secure. It is necessary for devices to feature version 2.0 or higher.

Google Apps Lookup is considered to be the third announcement. It is a new corporate contacts app, due to which it will be much easier to contact and find others within your organization. When taking advantage of the app one can speak or type the email address or name and then tap to contact them through an e-mail, handset, text message or IM. Lookup requires Android 2.1 or higher versions.

Each update offers a significant step forward for the platform.

Analysts Are Concerned about Sales of Motorola Atrix and Xoom

John — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 12:37:43 +0000

According to analysts, the Motorola Xoom and Atrix are experiencing disappointing early sales. Both devices use the Android operating system.

Despite analyst’s concerns, Verizon Wireless issued a statement that it is pleased with customer response to the Xoom. But the carrier almost never discloses sales figures and the same happened this time.

According to AT&T, its customers are satisfied with the Atrix and the carrier itself is pleased with the sales results. The network carrier also did not disclose sales figures. Motorola Mobility, which is considered to be the maker of both devices, did not comment on the matter.

One can assume that Verizon does not want to reveal sales of Xoom as it will have to compare it with the first-generation iPad, which reached 300,000 sold units during the first weekend. According to reports Apple sold 1 million units of iPad 2 during its opening weekend.

Calculation was made by a Deutsche Bank analyst. It was revealed that Motorola has sold 100,000 Xoom tablets since its launch.

According to James Faucette, analyst at Pacific Crest, the Atrix is sold well below forecast. It was revealed that the smartphone was hurt by lower prices of the as well as Apple iPhone 3GS. He considers that sales for the Xoom and Atrix have been disappointing

AT&T and Verizon could be pleased with sales of Xoom as the carriers view one smartphone or tablet as part of the whole inventory of many devices. It is easy for Verizon’s customer to compare the iPad 2 and Xoom. In case customers do not like one tablet, they are able to buy the other. Anyway the carrier is in the winning position as the customer can acquire one or the other device.

Galaxy Tab to Experience Fall in Prices

John — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:03:32 +0000

Do not even think that prices of non-Apple tablets are falling. The latest price cuts can be regarded as a way to spur adoption of Android based tablets that are already in the market. It is hoped that it will help undercut the popular iPad 2.

Verizon Wireless as well as Sprint have made cuts for the Smasung Galaxy which hit the market in November 2010. Sprint is now offering the Tab for $200 that has a two-year contract. The Verizon Galaxy Tab is now available for $500, the company sliced $100 of the launch price. All the Android based tablets will have to compete with the iPad 2 of Apple, the starting price of which is $499.

The strategy of Sprint is to get more subscribers for its wireless data services. Moreover, the Galaxy Tab is older than it might seem at first blush. There were speculations last summer and it was rolled out at the IFA show which was held in Berlin last September. Two months after the device was shipped and due to some circumstances its components were locked down.

Instead of confirming the end of Tab’s life, it was announced by the company that it is going to offer a Wi-Fi-only version of the tablet that would cost $349. Many consider that such price drops are explained by the fact that the Galaxy Tab is getting closer to the end. This make sense as the tablet’s components as well as Android OS feel dated if compared with the dual-core processor of tablets that run Android 3.0.

It is necessary for carriers to make a way for newer tablets, just like the Galaxy Tab with a 10.1-inch screen and Galaxy Tab with an 8.9-inch screen as well as the Sprint Evo Vew that will be available in the market this summer.

HTC EVO 3D Features MHL Technology: Does that Matter?

John — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 10:14:12 +0000

The HTC EVO 3D comes with cutting-edge specs, such as the 3D display, Sprint 4G data speeds, dual-core processor as well as camera. But the device is equipped with one more feature that puts it ahead of the pack, i.e. the MHL port.

The MHL is a digital audio interface as well as 1080p HD video that allows to connect smartphone and other portable devices to HDTVs. It is capable to simultaneously power your mobile device. As for HDMI cables, they are not capable to do this.

Due to the spec any TV remote is able to control the interface, content and apps of your handset. In fact, it is possible to hook your mobile device up to any HDTV, as a result, you will get access to it on the big screen.

MHL will feature just one port and it is necessary to have at least one cable to charge and hook up to a TV. Such HDMI-enabled handset as the HTC EVO 4G features two ports: the HDMI port as well as microISB port. With a single port smartphones are sleeker and slimmer in terms of build.

Users can take advantage of standard USB connector with the port. During the connection, your mobile device will recognize it when it is hooked up to a USB port or MHL port.

The HTC EVO 3D is considered to be the first mobile device in the U.S. market that is supportive to the MHL 1.0. The Galaxy S II is another handset that is announced to feature an MHL port. The HTC View 4G will be the first tablet device that will come with an MHL port. The tablet will be offered through Sprint. One can expect that we will be able to see more MHL-enabled devices this year, we are talking about tablets, smartphones and even TVs.

Windows 8 Can Be Better Than Windows 7

John — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:59:41 +0000

Microsoft is mostly associated with the operating system. It has become the leader in the market of operating systems. The company understands the space of operating system and knows how to be successful in the market.

Windows 8 is another version of Microsoft’s operating system that is just around the corner. It will hit the market next year. Although we don’t know a lot about Windows 8, there is one thing that is for certain: Windows 8 will be much better compared to Windows 7.

Windows 8 is not regarded as a major update, it will be an improved version upon Windows 7. Windows 8 will have similarities compared to its predecessor and will come with the same features.

Windows 8 will have improved security. Windows XP was quite secure after the release of Service Pack 2. Despite the fact that Windows Vista came across pitfalls, due to Service Packs, the OS was secured. Moreover, it is expected that Windows 8 will be even more secure compared to its predecessor.

The next version of windows will be supportive to ARM, which is extremely important. With the availability of this support, there might be more options for consumers who are looking forward to use Windows.

According to recent speculations, Microsoft is going to release an application store along with Windows 8. If it happens so the operating system will play against Mac OS X Snow Leopard as well as Lion that will soon hit the App Store.

Microsoft is now working in order to offer Windows 8 with a vastly improved power-saving feature in the operating system. It should improve battery life on mobile devices that are based on the software.

Windows 8 might come with “History Vault.” It is a new feature that is enabled with a simple backup interface. It will help edit old documents, restore individual files as well as others.

It is expected that Microsoft is going to do something special with Windows 8.

iPhone 5 Will Get 5 MP Camera from Sony?

John — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 10:06:15 +0000

It is still a question if the iPhone 5 comes with an 8 MP camera. According to reports, Howard Stringer, Sony CEO disclosed some details on the matter during an interview with Wall Street Journal.

Both the iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS are equipped with the 5 MP camera as well as 3.2 MP camera respectively. Both cameras were supplied by OmniVision. It was revealed by Electronista back in February that Sony could start providing the camera for the smartphone of Apple replacing Omni Vision. Sony is able to build an 8 MP sensor for the handset. It turned out that OmniVison may fail to produce the camera in time for the roll-out of the iPhone 5, for that reason Sony may take over for OmniVision.

The report was additionally fueled by the statements of Stringer. Moreover, it was revealed that 15 factories of Sony were damaged after the earthquake in Japan. A camera sensor plant was among the damaged ones, for that reason some part shipments were delayed for the iPhone 5.

According to other reports, the iPhone 5 may hit the market not until October or even later. The report suggests that the company has not ordered components for the fifth-generation iPhone.

It is suggested by Macotakara that the iPhone 5 will be released in the first half of fiscal 2012. It does not look like Apple is going to miss holiday season sales. According to AppleInsider, the smartphone will be unveiled in October or November.

A lot of rumors are floating around the next-generation iPhone. The most recent repots suggest that the handset will be enabled with an edge-to-edge screen. It is also claimed that the mobile device will have a different back and the antenna will be removed from the external frame.

Mast-Have Features for BlackBerry PlayBook

John — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 09:26:14 +0000

Although the BlackBerry PlayBook will be launched only on April 19, a lot of things have been written about it, both negative and positive. The tablet device may occur in trouble in case it turns out to be just a copy of the iPad. RIM will have to announce significant features for the device.

The PlayBook can compete with the memory of iPad. The ability to run Android apps is not enough for the tablet to get excited about. There are a couple of features that may be integrated into the PlayBook which will make only good for the tablet.

The tablet device should allow its users to easily type as well as click commands or type texts in a way that will impress them. If the company fails to do that, then it is hoped we will see excellent touchscreen technology.

The PlayBook will come with 64GB of storage capacity that is considered to be the realm of laptop hard disk sizes rather than capacities of smartphones. If users store and save important data on the RIM’s tablet, it may mean that the data should be backed up regularly. It would be nice if the tablet has an offsite server that is capable to restore the data along with applications that were installed on the tablet during the last backup.

Battery life is very important especially for businesses who might use the device throughout the work day. 15 or 20 hours of use on a charge would be a deal breaker for many small businesses. But still we do not know about the battery life of PlayBook as RIM has not disclosed details.

It would be nice to see the above mentioned features in the tablet. But to be honest we should not expect that the PlayBook will have many of them as it launches in over two weeks.