Archive for December, 2009

By December 11, 2009 Read More →

Motorola Milestone Launches in UK

Today has seen the official launch of the much anticipated Motorola Milestone (also known as the Droid in the USA).

 

Milestone

Motorola Milestone

 

 

BASINGSTOKE, UK – December 10, 2009 — The Motorola MILESTONET, Europe’s first Android 2.0 powered smartphone, will be available in the UK from today on eXpansys (www.expansys.com/milestone ).

The highly anticipated MILESTONE joins DEXT with MOTOBLURT as the second handset in Motorola’s recently revealed Android portfolio and will be ranged exclusively with eXpansys until December 31.

MILESTONE is without compromise, setting new standards for how fast, smart and multi-tasking a modern smartphone should be. Powered by Android 2.0, it offers the ability to use multiple applications at once and the world’s thinnest QWERTY slider (13.7mm). The MILESTONE also boasts a hi-resolution and pinch and zoom display.

A suite of GoogleT mobile applications including Google SearchT, Google MapsT, Google MailT and YouTubeT are also integrated onto the device. Plus users have access to thousands of apps and widgets from Android MarketT.

“MILESTONE joins DEXT in our evolving Android portfolio and is further proof of our vision for Android as the platform to unleash the power of mobile internet,” said Ralf Gerbershagen, vice president and general manager of Motorola Western Europe.

“As an Android 2.0 device, MILESTONE does what other smartphones don’t. It was designed to enhance consumer experiences – and its full screen web browsing experience, ability to juggle between multiple apps, and suite of Google applications deliver. We have been delighted with the anticipation and demand for MILESTONE across Europe.”

“This is an exciting announcement for eXpansys, as we believe the MILESTONE will exceed our customers’ expectations. Our strategy has always been to offer breakthrough smartphones and gadgets which enrich our customers’ lives,” said Roger Butterworth, CEO for eXpansys. 

“We know our customers want to be the first to get hold of the MILESTONE and try the latest Google platform and that’s why we’re offering up to £100 cash back for customers eligible to trade in their old phone.”

Key MILESTONE features include:

· 3.7″ widescreen display with 854 pixel width and more than 400,000 total pixels

· High-speed, cortex A8 processor

· Multi-touch, pinch and zoom, double tap zoom

· 5 megapixel camera with dual-LED flash

· Motorola Media Link and Motorola Phone Portal to manage and share media content across desktop, phone and the Web

· Stereo Bluetooth® / BT 2.1, USB 2.0

· 3.5mm headset jack

· CrystalTalkT Plus for superior talk quality

· 8GB memory card

Additional functionality and apps include:

· Full suite of the Google applications: Google Search, Google Maps with Latitude, Google Mail, YouTube, and Google TalkT

· Unified Google and Microsoft Office Contacts

· Navigation: GPS, MOTONAV * turn-by-turn navigation, Google Maps, E-Compass Latitude

· Email Support: IMAP and POP, Google Mail

· IM Support: Google Talk

· Calendar: Exchange, Calendar

Pricing

eXpansys will offer MILESTONE as either SIM free and unlocked (£449.99) or from £49.99 when bundled with an 18 month, £35 a month T-mobile contract. eXpansys is also offering consumers who trade in their old HTC, BlackBerry or Apple iPhone up to a £100 rebate via mail. For more information about pricing and availability: http://www.expansys.com/milestone

Availability

To date, MILESTONE is available in Italy, Germany, France, Argentina, Brazil and Canada. Further availability will be announced as Motorola continues to expand its Android-based portfolio around the world. For more information please visit www.motorola.com/milestone.

In North America, Motorola’s first two Android-based devices to hit the market are known as CLIQ with MOTOBLUR and DROIDT.

 

We are expecting to get our hands on one of these beauties shortly so watch out for the unboxing video followed by the full review.

 

Posted by: James

Posted in: Press Releases
By December 10, 2009 Read More →

devicewire now have the HTC HD2 in stock

After recently selling all their stock, devicewire.com are pleased to announce they have just had more HTC HD2s arrive so if you are after one of these mammoth handsets you had better get your orders in quick. Click here to order.

 

HD2 2

HTC HD2

 

In addition they also have some accessories to go with the HD2:

Official HTC HD2 Micro USB Car Charger In Stock – Only £19.99 http://www.devicewire.co.uk/official-htc-rapid-micro-usb-car-charger

Official HTC HD2 Flip Case Now In Stock Only £14.99 http://www.devicewire.co.uk/official-htc-hd2-flip-case

 

If you fancy a brown HTC Hero they also have one of those too -  http://www.devicewire.co.uk/htc-hero-brown

 

Looks like devicewire.com are in for a busy few days!

 

Gráfico1

 

Posted by: James

Posted in: News
By December 10, 2009 Read More →

Camera update for the HTC HD2

If you follow the site regularly you will have seen our posts on the camera problem the HTC HD2 seems to have, the dreaded pink blur.

 

HD2

HTC HD2

 

The good news is that if you have an unlocked/sim free HD2, HTC have released an update to enhance the camera.

HTC say: “This update for HTC HD2 delivers clear digital picture quality like never before. Living up to the name of “HD” this phone and its twin LED flash will take beautiful pictures for you to cherish your memories. Displayed in brilliant vibrant colours on its 4.3 inch screen, HTC HD2 camera will delight you”.

 

We are expecting another HTC HD2 for us to play with next week so we will be sure to install this update and put it too the test.

If you want the update now please click here.

 

Posted By: James

Posted in: News
By December 10, 2009 Read More →

Blackberry Bold 9700 – Discount!

Those nice people at devicewire.com have just dropped me a line to let us know they have a new promo on the Blackberry Bold 9700.

 

9700

Blackberry Bold 9700

 

The first batch of these Blackberries sold out pretty quickly but devicewire.com have just received more stock and as a bonus you can get an extra £5 off the price and free delivery when using the promo code BB9700TAM

Just click the above promo code to be taken straight to the 9700 page.

If you have not read my recent review of the Bold 9700 you can do so here. It’s a great device!

 

Gráfico1

 

 

Posted by: James

 

Posted in: Phones
By December 10, 2009 Read More →

Update for HTC HD2 – Digital Picture Enhancement

There has been quite a bit of internet noise with regard to camera problems and pink splodges on the recently released HTC HD2, well looks like HTC have been listening and have just released a patch to improve the cameras quality. Details below:-

This update for HTC HD2 delivers clear digital picture quality like never before. Living up to the name of “HD” this phone and its twin LED flash will take beautiful pictures for you to cherish your memories. Displayed in brilliant vibrant colors on its 4.3 inch screen, HTC HD2 camera will delight you.

Get the patch directly from HTC

Posted in: Phones
By December 10, 2009 Read More →

iPhone 3GS arriving at Tescos on December 14th

image Collect Double Clubcard points when you buy an iPhone & Triple points for every £1 you spend on top-up or your monthly bill
  • 12 Months free Web & Wi-Fi on Pay as you go iPhone
  • Up to 24 months Web & Wi-Fi on Pay monthly (depending on length of contract)
  • Save £20 when you spend £40 in store (PAYG only)

image

So there you go, again nothing much to get excited about apart from the the double club card points!!

Via Tesco

Posted in: Phones
By December 10, 2009 Read More →

Samsung ST550 review

Dual screen – Useful or just a novelty ?

Introduction

There’s been a lot of hype about the Samsung ST550 because of its Dual Screen innovation. Lots of TV advertising telling us that we need this camera to make our lives more fun. Let’s see if it does then.

The Samsung ST550

The Samsung ST550

 

Not only is the ST550 well specified in the lens and sensor department, with a 4.6x optical zoom, 12 megapixel sensor and 3.5" touchscreen on the rear but the ST550’s real party piece is the forward facing LCD screen right next to the lens. When you first see this in action you realise what a simple idea it is and wonder why on earth it’s never been done before. How many times have you tried to take a picture of yourself with friends or family holding the camera at arms-length to take shot? Well this makes the process a little easier!

 

What’s in the Box?

  • Samsung ST550 Camera
  • AV Cable
  • USB UK 3pin mains plug with USB cable
  • Battery
  • Wrist Strap
  • Quick start Manual, Guarantee and Software CD (PDF Manual)

See also Matt’s Samsung ST550 unboxing video for a tour of the camera and the box contents.

 

Samsung ST550 specification:

  • Style: Ultra Compact
  • Megapixels: 12
  • Print Ratios: 4:3, 16:9, 3:2
  • File Formats: JPEG
  • Memory Cards: Micro SD/ Micro SDHC
  • Zoom: 4.6x
  • Focal Length Equivalent: 27-124.2mm
  • Shutter Speed: 8 – 1/2000 seconds
  • Aperture: F3.5(W) – F5.9(T)
  • Sensitivity: Auto, ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
  • White Balance Settings: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent_H, Fluorescent_L, Tungsten, Custom
  • ExposureCompensation: -2EV to +2EV (in 1/3EV steps)
  • LCD Screen: 3.5 inches
  • Flash Modes: Auto, Auto & Red-eye reduction, Fill-in flash, Slow sync, Flash off, Red eye fix
  • Flash Range: 3.4m
  • Shooting Modes: Portrait, Night Portrait, Backlight Portrait, Macro Portrait, Backlight, Landscape, White, Action, Tripod, Night, Macro, Macro Text, Blue Sky, Sunset Sky, Natural Portrait, Natural Green, Beauty shot, Frame Guidet, Portrait, Children, Night, Landscape,Close up Text, Sunset, Dawn, Back Light, Fireworks, Beach, Snow
  • Maximum Movie Resolution: 1280 x 720 pixels
  • Maximum Movie Frames Per Second: 30 fps
  • Maximum Movie Duration: To capacity of memory card
  • Macro Focus: 3cms
  • Metering: Multi-pattern, centre weighted, spot
  • Image Stabilisation: Yes
  • Video Out (TV Playback): Yes
  • Computer Connection: Yes
  • Batteries: Lithium-ion Rechargeable
  • Dimensions: 99.8 x 59.8 x 18.6mm
  • Weight: 165.7g

See the Samsung ST550 page for the full spec.

 

General

Front – Houses the Lens, flash and of course the front 1.5″ LED screen

ST550-front-on

 

Rear – Large 3.5″ Haptic feedback LED Touchscreen

ST550-back

 

Top – Power button, Shutter Button, Zoom switch, mic and play button

ST550_top2 ST550-top

 

Bottom – Connector Socket, tripod mount and battery latch which incorporates Micro SD slot

ST550-bottom

Left Side – Speaker

Right Side – Wrist Strap loop

 

Highlights

  • Very clear, sharp and detailed touch-screen display
  • Built in software
  • Dual Screen
  • Strong, Sturdy build
  • Good quality stills and video
  • Fairly slim and compact

Lowlights

  • Very short USB cable
  • Optional HD cable
  • Easily chipped case
  • Fiddly controls

 

Review

First thing that strikes you about this camera is the nice slim compact design with the red border on one side and chic gloss black front with which they have managed to make the front screen nigh-on invisible, the perfect black tint to match the colour of the case. The next is the super large 3.5″ touchscreen which is virtually the same size as the camera with it’s gentle haptic feedback and easy to use menus. Being a metal case it’s also a bit heavier at 165g (without card or battery) than some compacts of the same size, but personally I prefer that to a piece of plastic that looks nowhere near as plush and is nowhere near as durable or sturdy. Being heavier gives me a confidence in the product, knowing that it’s not going to break with the slightest knock. My one observation and slight concern was that I was obviously not the first to review this camera and as such there were a few chips out of the camera case revealing the shiny metal underneath. I’m not too worried about this as I have no idea what this camera had been through previously and that if I did drop it I’d rather my camera chip slightly than crack or break into pieces.

Pictures where well focused, sharp and detailed with good colour representation especially on the highest 12 megapixel setting. The 4.6x optical zoom was nice and smooth and progressive although for those of us with, how can I say? chunkier fingers the zoom control switch was a bit small and fiddly to use. The video was also good as it records in 720p, nice feature considering this is predominantly a stills camera and when played back through the PS3 via the Micro SD card the video and sound was pretty close to that of a dedicated budget HD camcorder, but through the supplied AV cable it made the video and photos look a lot poorer quality than they actually were as you are only getting standard def. I really wish manufacturers would supply an HD cable of some sort with their HD products because all you are doing is downgrading the quality when viewed on an HDTV. Anyway enough of my rant, back to the review.

Other great features that stand out are face detection (up to 12 at a time), smile detection, blink detection, touch focus and automatic red-eye fix which all worked remarkably well, I had great fun trying these out in front of the camera part smiling and blinking until the camera automatically took the shot when I posed properly.

Talking of self portraits you turn on the front screen with a couple of firm taps or through the menu system and once the camera is focused and happy with your smile it takes the picture automatically. The only slight issue I have with the screen is that I think it could have done with being a little bit bigger as at arms length you can just about squeeze two heads into the frame, even though this is the main selling point of the camera.

A plus point for Samsung is the flexible charging, giving you the facility to charge the camera via USB so that when you are plugged into your laptop or PC to download your photos and videos you can also charge the camera at the same time. Alternatively you could use a USB car charger or just plug into the mains using the USB 3 pin plug. Another criticism would be is that it comes with the shortest USB cable known to man.

 

Conclusion

As I said earlier, I was quite eager to get my hands on the Dual Screen Samsung ST550 to see if it was something I would consider paying over £200 for, just for the extra portrait screen. For me personally I don’t think so. Now don’t get me wrong this is a very capable camera with great innovative features and good picture quality, I just wouldn’t get that much use out of the portrait screen, but for all those youngsters who are forever taking photos and videos of themselves and putting them online. Yes, I think it would give endless amounts of fun.

 

Review by: Charlie

[ Post Tags: Samsung ST550, Digital Camera, compact camera, tracyandmatt.co.uk, photography ]

Posted in: Reviews
By December 9, 2009 Read More →

No Podcast this week

Webbanner_thumb

Hi folks, Gareth here. I’m sorry to announce that there will be no Mobile Tech Addicts podcast this week due to my schedule exploding with tasks of great responsibility. Worry not, Andy and I will return before Christmas with something before we take a short break.

Posted in: Podcast
By December 9, 2009 Read More →

Apple tablet landed in Germany + upstream UStream approved

What is the difference between daily tabloid newspapers in Germany and UK? Well, the main difference lies in the fact that German tabloids publish naked ladies on the front page and British ones on 3rd page. There is one more difference though: German tabloids are available on Apple tablet too:

Posted in: Phones
By December 9, 2009 Read More →

HTC HD2 desktop cradle

SuperETrader have let us know that the desktop cradle for the HTC HD2 will be in stock very shortly.

 

HD2 Cradle

HTC HD2 Cradle

 

If you fancy your HD2 looking swish on your desk then you can pre – order the cradle here.

 

 

Posted by: James

Posted in: Phones
https://www.ukmeds.co.uk/surgical-face-masks