Author Archive: Gareth

Seasoned tech blogger. Host of the Tech Addicts podcast.

By Gareth August 6, 2014 Read More →

Samsung Galaxy S5 Video Comparison

The Samsung Galaxy S5 has been out for a little while now and has met with some of the more mixed feedback we have seen for a flagship smartphone. There is always a battle of the camera and in a series of videos we hope to help you make your own mind up on which device has the best video quality for your needs.

Test video quality isn’t an easy thing, there are many factors to deal with, just as still shots. I find the best test is a dashboard mount as over a few minutes the camera will have to pull focus multiple times, deal with an extreme variety of light conditions and constant movement, not to mention shakes. In addition the microphone’s performance will also be put to the test with the constant background noise, whilst balancing vocal input.

The following are the Samsung Galaxy S5’s attempt to deal with a quick journey through my home town in my 3.0 litre pick-up truck on the four different settings available.

Samsung Galaxy S5 Ultra HD setting:

Samsung Galaxy S5 Full HD setting:

Samsung Galaxy S5 HD setting:

Samsung Galaxy S5 VGA setting:

Posted in: Editorial, Phones, Videos/Unboxings

By Gareth August 5, 2014 Read More →

STK 3 In 1 Data and Charging Cable Unboxing

Mobilefun.co.uk have very kindly provided us with a STK 3 In 1 Data and Charging Cable with 8Pin Connector allowing charging of an iPad, iPhone 5, 5S, 4 and 4S alongside older iPad, iPhone and ipod models and a microUSB for most else. Charging a couple of phone should be okay, however dumping two tablets on there might not garner the most spectacular results.

Supports use with Apple Lightning, Apple 30 pin and Micro USB devices

Designed to be the only cable that you will ever need – the STK 3 in 1 cable features Apple Lightning, Apple 30 pin and Micro USB connectors – designed to charge any device which uses any of these adapters.

With more and more devices using Micro USB charging adapters, this cable is also designed to be future proof – so you won’t need to keep purchasing new cables to match your numerous devices.

Charge and sync your devices

Quickly and easily sync / charge your mobile devices with the STK 3 in 1 Charge and Sync cable.

Provides quick and easy charging for a wide range of devices

Designed to give you complete freedom, the 3 in 1 cable allows you to manage all of your devices without having to carry around different cables with you all the time. This is the perfect solution for on-the-go lifestyles and multiple device owners.

Simultaneous charging – charge all devices at once

With this 3-in-1 Charge and Sync cable you can charge all of your devices at the same time, using just one USB cable.

You can pick one up from mobilefun.co.uk.

Posted in: Gadgets, Phones, Videos/Unboxings

By Gareth August 4, 2014 Read More →

LG G3 Video Comparison

The LG G3 is one of the year’s sensations pleased most and meeting little in the way of critical feedback. In this series of posts we will be comparing the video quality between devices one their various setting. We have recently looked at the Samsung Galaxy S5 and it’s time for the LG G3 to have a go.

The following are the LG G3’s attempt to deal with a quick journey through my home town in my 3.0 litre pick-up truck on the four different settings available.

LG G3 Ultra HD setting:

LG G3 Full HD setting:

LG G3 HD setting:

LG G3 120 HD Slow Motion setting:

Posted in: Phones, Videos/Unboxings

By Gareth August 3, 2014 Read More →

Panasonic announce refreshed VIERA series for 2014

Today at an all access event Panasonic announced their impressive family of Viera LCD panels. Ultra HD and Full HD TVs combining their premium image quality and full network connectivity. Coupled with integrated features like my Stream, a camera based identity system to personalise TV content and recommendations, an info Bar for popup updates in standby mode utilising the built in camera and some important home entertainment features such as TV Anywhere and Remote Sharing.

Mid-range Full HD provide state-of-the-art networking and include the TV Anywhere and Remote Sharing.

A new entry-range series offer “beyond smart” TV features, a variety of screen sizes and a wide range of connectivity options.

In addition, we were treated to a little inside information on the AX902 demonstrated in CES earlier this year. The AX902 doesn’t have price or release information at the moment however it will be seen again at IFA in Berlin and we will be there to keep you up to date on it.

AX902 Series

Panasonic announced that it will introduce the AX902, a further 4K UHD series TV in autumn of this year. The AX902 will include several as yet undisclosed picture quality and ‘beyond smart’ advances.

Here is breakdown of the range available now:

AX802

Superb 4K Images meet Cutting-Edge Connectivity Options.
Ultra HD LED TV with 2000Hz (BLS) – exceptionally fast panel for impressive motion picture quality and 3D
my Stream – enjoy content recommended to match your preferences, easily via an intuitive interface
4K Studio Master Drive – for more accurate colour and richer, smoother gradation at virtually any brightness
Info Bar – walk by the TV in standby and immediately get the time, weather, any new messages and more
Hexa Processing Engine PRO – fast processing power, with HEVC decoder, delivers thrilling 4K entertainment
Freetime built-in

AS802

Full HD IPS LED TV with 1800Hz (BLS) – high-performance panel for stunning motion picture quality and 3D
my Stream – enjoy content recommended to match your preferences, easily via an intuitive interface
Local Dimming – revel in entertainment with more depth thanks to deep blacks and fine dark gradations
Hexa Processing Engine – fast processing power delivers a thrilling entertainment experience
Advanced Colour Spectrum – means more intense viewing with a natural colour range and brighter images
Freetime built-in.

AS740

Full HD LED TV with 1200Hz (BLS) – high-speed panel for brilliant, smooth motion picture quality and 3D
my Stream – enjoy content recommended to match your preferences, easily via an intuitive interface
Built-in camera – take Skype video calls, or get your personalised My Home Screen from Face Recognition
TV Anywhere – your entertainment, from the TV to your Web-enabled mobile device, even outside the home
Freetime built-in

AS650

Full HD LED TV with 1200Hz (BLS) – high-speed panel for brilliant, smooth motion picture quality and 3D
my Stream – enjoy content recommended to match your preferences, easily via an intuitive interface
TV Anywhere – your entertainment, from the TV to your Web-enabled mobile device, even outside the home
Wide viewing angle – spectacular colour, contrast and brightness for best viewing from virtually any seat
Freetime built-in

AS600

Full HD LED TV with 100Hz (BLB) and Dual Core CPU – for great picture quality and seamless Smart features
my Stream – enjoy content recommended to match your preferences, easily via an intuitive interface
Internet Apps – browse the Web, access social sites, enjoy Skype video calls and big-screen entertainment
Voice Assistant1 – simply use your voice to control the TV, search through your media or browse the Web
Freetime built-in

Requirements for Voice Assistant: Smartphone or Tablet and the TV Remote 2 App. Voice Print functionality is not available. Voice Assistant: availability varies by location.

AS500

Full HD1 LED TV with 100Hz (BLB) – enjoy clear motion quality for fast-moving action or sports
My Home Screen – customise the start-up screen to quickly access your favourite apps or the App Market
Internet Apps – browse the Web, access social sites, enjoy Skype video calls and big-screen entertainment
Swipe & Share – use your mobile device with Panasonic TV Remote App 2 to stream media directly to the TV

32“ and 24“ models are HD ready only

A400

Full HD1 LED TV with 100Hz (BLB) – enjoy clear motion quality for fast-moving action or sports
Media Player – play back photos, movies and music on the TV easily from any USB storage device
High Contrast – delivers deep blacks and bright whites for more dynamic images with great colour
V-Audio – enjoy rich sound from high-quality two-directional speakers

32“ model is HD ready only 2) Pedestal varies from displayed model

You can find out more from Panasonic at http://www.panasonic.com/uk/consumer/viera-televisions/led.html

Posted in: News, Press Releases, TV & Home Cinema

By Gareth August 2, 2014 Read More →

Spigen SGP Tough Armor Case for iPhone 5S / 5 Unboxing

Mobilefun.co.uk have very kindly provided us with a Spigen SGP Tough Armor Case for iPhone 5S and 5. This is a higher end case to toughen your iPhone and protect it against the hardest of knocks.

Combination of TPU and Polycarbonate for dual protection from drops and scratches

The Tough Armor case for iPhone 5S / 5 is a double layered TPU and a polycarbonate hard case to provide the best protection in a form-fitted design. The web patterned TPU case features improved shock absorption on the top, bottom, and corners to provide extreme protection to your iPhone 5S / 5 from drops and scratches.

Advanced Shock Absorption Technology

The Spigen Tough Armor case features state of the art shock absorption technology, with Air Cushion Technology on all 4 corners to effectively protect the device from drops.

Seamless Style

The case fits precisely onto the iPhone 5S / 5 for a natural and sleek look, and the speaker opening is specifically designed to fully utilize the speaker without reducing sound quality.

Easily access all ports, controls & connectors

The case also features cutouts for the ports and features of the iPhone 5S / 5 such as the dock connector and camera. It has raised areas for the volume and home keys to make them easy to press whilst encased.

What is it that makes Spigen SGP cases one of the best choices on the market?

Air cushion technologies

Sometimes, the smallest of innovations and features can make the biggest difference. Spigen SGP cases, including this product listing, feature air cushion technologies in each of the corners, which absorbs and disperses the force of a drop through the TPU material, which will provide your handset with the utmost protection.

Box design versus iPhone design

With Spigen SGP cases, there is no need to get protection for your handset through a bulky case. Spigen SGP Tough Armour cases pride themselves on being inspired by iPhone, featuring tapered edges, complimenting colours and a paralleled design, to minimise bulky and boxy casing.

Protection and air circulation

Many cases on the market trap and absorb heat with their foam-like interior, which can cause the device in question to overheat and damage. The Spigen SGP Tough Armor features a spider web inspired TPU, which provides a better drop protection and a better air circulation to help to keep the device cool.

Optimal lift combined with a “lay on the table” capability

With the Spigen SGP Tough Armor case, you can lay your phone on the table screen down without worry. The TPU features a tapered lip that raises the iPhone a comfortable 1.5mm off from the surface. this leaves the screen safe and protected while optimizing comfort in hand and during use.

You can pick one up from mobilefun.co.uk.

Posted in: Videos/Unboxings

By Gareth August 1, 2014 Read More →

LG G3 Unboxing

Clove.co.uk have sent over an LG G3. This latest flagship phone and successor to the tremendously popular LG G2 has arrived hot on the heels of HTC’s flagship One (M8) and Samsung’s Galaxy S5. That’s stiff competition, the critics have been hailing it as a triumph since the announcement and the press has gone bonkers for it. Not an easy phone to get your hands one, even to review, there are reports of shortages world wide however we have managed to get one albeit a little later than most other reviewers.

LG G3 specification:

5.5 inches
Quad HD (2560 X 1440)
Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ with 2.46 GHz Quad-Core Processor
2gb / 3 gb RAM
16gb / 32gb Storage
13 mp rear 2.1 mp front facing
Micro SD (up to 128GB | 2TB capable)
Bluetooth 4.0 LE .
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
Android 4.4 (KitKat)#
3,000mAh / Replaceable / Wireless Charging

Posted in: Phones, Videos/Unboxings

By Gareth July 31, 2014 Read More →

Archos Smart Home Unboxing

Clove.co.uk have sent over the new Archos Smart Home set. This home monitoring system comprises of a seven handy bits of equipment to assist you in securing and controlling you home from any and all locations. The Archos Smart Home is a kit comprising of 6 connected objects and a Smart Tablet. The tablet acts as a control station for the components that work together to allow you to stay connected and in touch with the activities in your home, office or location of choice.

Archos Smart Home features:

1 x Archos Smart Home Tablet
2 x Archos Mini Cam
2 x Archos Weather Tag
2 x Archos Movement Tag
UK/EU/US Power Supply
Documentation

Posted in: Energy Challenge, Gadgets, Videos/Unboxings

By Gareth July 30, 2014 Read More →

Tronsmart T1000 Mirror 2 TV Unboxing

Gareth has a look at a Chromecast alternative sent over by GearBest. At half the price of the Chromecast could this be an even bigger steal? Gareth thinks so! Tronsmart Mirror 2 TV (T1000) casts video, audio, photos, MS office files, PDF files, games, etc to HDTV or projector wirelessly. It can mirror whatever shown on the screen of your smartphone, tablet, notebook, PC to your HDTV or projector. Overall, it is a useful tools for your home multimedia entertainment, also a powerful tools for your office presentation.

Tronsmart T1000 Mirror 2 TV specification:

Multi-standard support: Miracast, DLNA, Airplay
Multi-platform support: Android phones/tablets, Apple iOS iPhone/iPad, Windows PC/Note, Mac ; PC/Notebook;
Can directly play and cast local video, music, game, MS Office documents/files
Extended cable with WiFi dongle to avoid big TV screen blocking wireless signal
Support screen mirroring, iOS currently under development
Display device: HDTV or projector with HDMI port
Simple installation, easy handling and configuration
H.264 1080P full HD video decode, can be switched to 720p if your TV does not support
LPCM audio decode
Flexible power using TV standard USB port (no less than 400mA) or external USB power supply (not included)
Firmware can be upgraded via OTA technology (Over the Air), easy to upgrade
APP download by Play Store (for Android) Apple Store (for iPhone)

Posted in: Gadgets, TV & Home Cinema, Videos/Unboxings

By Gareth July 29, 2014 Read More →

The HTC Nexus tablets

Supposedly, HTC is working on three different Android tablets and supposedly they plan to release later this year. On top of that, one of them will could be the Nexus 9 tablet for Google.

HTC Nexus tablets specification:

8.9-inch display with 281ppi
2GB of RAM
16GB or 32GB storage options
8-megapixel rear-facing camera
3-megapixel front-facing camera

According to the dude @evleaks, a Nexus 9 will have the model name T1 (and could have internal names of Volantis/Flounder as previously rumoured), while the other two unknown HTC tablets will be models T7 and T12. On top of this rumour, it has been speculated that the T7 will be the next Nexus 7 tablet, and that the T12 might be a successor to the Nexus 10.

Posted in: News, Rumours, Tablets

By Gareth July 29, 2014 Read More →

Olixar BoomBrick Wireless Bluetooth Speaker Unboxing

Mobilefun.co.uk have very kindly provided us with an Olixar BoomBrick Wireless Bluetooth Speaker. Gareth shares his initial thoughts.

High fidelity audio for rich, room filling sound

The BoomBrick Wireless Bluetooth Speaker allows your crisp wireless sound to go wherever you go. The BoomBrick features two powerful 3W drivers, providing you with a total output of 6W that will enable your media to fill the room with engaging high fidelity audio.

Passive radiator for a great bass sound

With small speakers it’s hard to achieve great sounding bass tones. The BoomBrick tackles this problem by featuring a passive radiator, which extends the bass response of the two existing full-range drivers – providing you with impressive sound, whatever genre of music you enjoy listening to.

Stylish and portable design

The BoomBrick Wireless Bluetooth Speaker is designed to be stylish, light and compact with its dimensions of 180 x 65 x 48mm making it easily portable.

Bluetooth and line-in connectivity so you can connect any audio device

The BoomBrick is Bluetooth enabled, so the pairing process is incredibly simple – connecting to your device wirelessly with no need for passwords. It supports any Bluetooth music device and you only have to turn the speaker on and search for it using your device. This sound system however also includes a standard 3.5mm jack to allow you to connect devices without Bluetooth technology such as iPods, Laptops and MP3 players.

Built-in microphone for hands-free calls and conference calling

The BoomBrick’s built-in microphone makes it easy to take calls hands-free or in a group. You can easily switch between playing audio and receiving calls with the multifunction button on top of the BoomBrick. The internal microphone is compatible with Bluetooth enabled phones, Facetime, iChat, Skype and other applications (not all phones will support these features) – making it a perfect item for office conference calling or family Skype chats.

Built-in 1200mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery

Fully loaded with a rechargeable 1200mAh lithium ion battery, which provides you with up to 8 hours of play time – so you can enjoy your music all day. Recharging the BoomBrick’s battery from flat should take around 3 hours with the included USB charge cable.

Technical Specifications:

Bluetooth: CSR 2.1 +EDR
Dimensions: 180 x 65 x 48mm
3.5mm port: Yes
Power input: DC 3.7V
Power output: 2 x 3W
Driver size: 2 x 1.75″ + 1 bass radiator
Battery size: 1200mAh
Play time: 8 hours
Charge time: 3 hours

You can order one from Mobilefun.co.uk.

Posted in: Gadgets, MP3 Players & Accessories, Videos/Unboxings