Author Archive: Gareth

Seasoned tech blogger. Host of the Tech Addicts podcast.

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By February 16, 2016 Read More →

LG Launches the Tone Series Bluetooth Headset Lineup

large01LG Electronics (LG) will unveil its most premium addition to the TONE Series of Bluetooth headsets at MWC 2016 in Barcelona, Spain which runs from February 22-25. In addition to its good looks, the new TONE Platinum delivers unrivalled style and superior audio quality through a partnership with Harmon Kardon®.

 

Having secured the Harmon Kardon Platinum grade, the newest TONE Platinum is designed for both professionals and avid music lovers. LG has adopted the Balanced Armature design as the sound module for the latest TONE Platinum model to minimise distortion. The design is usually reserved for high-end wired earphones. In addition, its aluminium earphone housing helps deliver a more sophisticated sound performance.

 

The headset features aptX™ HD Audio Codec to deliver CD-like quality audio over Bluetooth that faithfully reproduces the full audio bandwidth and minimises latency by significantly reducing the bit rate without affecting sound quality. The premium headset also offers noise cancelling dual microphones for clearer calls even in the noisiest environments.

 

The TONE Platinum’s sleek aluminum finish adds a premium look and feel to the device while its ergonomic design allows users to wear the headset for hours without discomfort. To further enhance convenience, LG added Voice Command to handle incoming calls just by voice while the Tone & Talk app has been enhanced to support Voice Memo and Find Me via any Android smartphone (version 4.1 and higher).

 

“The LG TONE Platinum is a showcase of innovative technologies that aims to deliver premium sound quality in a form-factor that millions of customers have come to embrace,” said Michael Park, vice president in charge of Innovative Personal Devices Business Division at LG Electronics. “LG’s TONE offerings are second to none in the wireless Bluetooth world which is a key growth area for our mobile business.”

 

“We are excited to collaborate with LG on the LG TONE Platinum,” said Michael Mauser, executive vice president and president of Harman’s Lifestyle Division. “Harman Kardon has over 60 years of experience creating premium audio and ground-breaking sound technologies. When a product like the LG TONE Platinum carries the Harman Kardon name, it is confirmation that the device will offer class-leading audio quality and outstanding design.”

 

LG plans to roll out the latest premium Bluetooth headset in the United States in March, followed by other key markets in Asia, Europe and Latin America. Visitors to Mobile World Congress are encouraged to stop by LG’s booth in Hall 3 of Fira Gran Via from February 22-25 to see the newest TONE Platinum.

By February 16, 2016 Read More →

LG to debut “specialist” X series smartphones at MWC 2016

lgxInstead of a one-size-fits-all approach, LG Electronics (LG) will bring to Mobile World Congress 2016 a new series of smartphones developed to offer customers a unique user experience by offering one exceptional feature at a price that rivals mid-range smartphones. The first two models in the X series — X cam and X screen — will debut at MWC in Barcelona on February 22. The X cam and X screen are designed for customers who do not want or need all the bells and whistles that come with today’s high-end phones but still desire a great camera or advanced display.

 

The X cam sports dual cameras on the rear and delivers one of the most advanced camera experience in a mass-tier smartphone. Thanks to LG’s seamless 3D Bending Glass, the X cam features an elegant curved finish on the front and with a profile of only 5.2mm, the device is extremely comfortable to hold in the hand. And unlike other boxy and heavier mid-range phones, the X cam tips the scale at only 118g.

 

The other model, appropriately named X screen, is equipped with an “Always-on” Second Screen which until now has only been available on LG’s premium V10. The Second Screen sits above the main 4.93-inch HD In-cell Touch display and makes multi-tasking a breeze on the X screen. With the 1.76 inch Second Screen, users can easily access frequently used apps, answer calls without interrupting the current activity or just play music. The Second Screen also lets users check time, date, battery status and other notifications without ever having to turn on the phone. What’s more, the X screen offers a stylish, sleek look with its crystal-clear glass fibre exterior and clean lines.

 

“Everyone has a favourite smartphone feature,” said Juno Cho, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “At LG, we think there’s room for devices that do one thing very well and that customers shouldn’t have to pay for features that they don’t want. At the end of the day, we’re committed to offering consumers more choices.”

 

LG’s X series will debut in key markets in Asia, Europe and Latin America starting next month. Visitors to MWC can see the new X series for themselves at LG’s booth in Hall 3 of Fira Gran Via from February 22-25.

 

X cam Key Specifications:*

·      Display: 5.2-inch FHD In-cell Touch

·      Chipset: 1.14GHz Octa-Core

·      Camera: Rear 13MP and 5MP / Front 8MP

·      Memory: 2GB RAM / 16GB ROM

·      Battery: 2,520mAh

·      Operating System: Android 6.0 Marshmallow

·      Size: 147.5 x 73.6 x 5.2mm~6.9mm

·      Network: LTE

·      Colors: Titan Silver / White / Gold / Pink Gold

 

X screen Key Specifications:*

·      Display:    Main) 4.93-inch HD In-cell Touch

                    Secondary) 1.76-inch LCD (520 x 80)

·      Chipset: 1.2GHz Quad-Core

·      Camera: Rear 13MP / Front 8MP

·      Memory: 2GB RAM / 16GB ROM

·      Battery: 2,300mAh

·      Operating System: Android 6.0 Marshmallow

·      Size: 142.6 x 71.8 x 7.1mm

·      Network: LTE

·      Colors: Black / White / Pink Gold 

Posted in: News, Phones, Press Releases
By February 16, 2016 Read More →

Secret Samsung Galaxy S7 video shows a few unconfirmed features. #TheNextGalaxy

2016-02-16It would appear that the Samsung Galaxy S7 is both water resistant and features wireless charging according to this unlisted video Samsung have dropped onto YouTube. The is also the opportunity it might turn you into a world class archer however that might not actually come into fruition. At any rate, having water resistance is going to be a crowd pleaser to no end, check out the sweaty video below.

 

Posted in: News, Phones, Rumours
By February 15, 2016 Read More →

TrackR Bravo Unboxing

vlcsnap-error725The TrackR Bravo is a simple GPS locator allowing the user to hone in on the location of a missing item with ease.

Designed to be small and easy to transport the Bravo enjoys a small feature set whilst managing to extend it use to almost anything. Dropping it into the change pocket of a wallet, attached to your keys or around the neck of your dog the TrackR Bravo keeps whatever you attach it to within reach and easily locatable.

Diameter: 31mm

Thickness: 3.5mm

Battery Life: 1 year

Battery Type: Replaceable CR1616 Battery

Device Ringer Volume: 85dB

Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0 (Bluetooth Low Energy)

Device Compatibility:

iPhone 4s & Later
iPad 3rd Generation & Later
Android 4.4 & Later with Bluetooth Low Energy
Works World Wide

https://www.thetrackr.com/bravo

Posted in: Accessories, GPS/Sat Nav
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By February 12, 2016 Read More →

AOC presents 4K monitor with Adaptive-Sync

aocAOC, one of the top global brands in the display market, introduces a new 4K UHD display that combines high picture quality, a slim, elegant design and a fast HDMI 2.0 connector. The AOC U2879VF is able to display more than 1 billion colours, allowing for more depth and richer colour quality. An ultra-fast response time of 1 ms, Adaptive-Sync support (FreeSync compatible) and low input lag make the monitor ideal for gamers that are looking for great visuals and smooth action. The monitor comes with up-to-date connectivity, amongst others encompassing both HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2a+ inputs. Alongside these features, its competitive price-performance ratio makes it attractive for a variety of users.

Slim design and crisp images
The AOC U2879VF comes in an ultra-slim design that combines a slick glossy bezel with an elegant silver stand, making it a stylish addition to the workspace. The integrated 28″ (71.1 cm) TN panel is able to display more than 1 billion colours (Real 8-bit+FRC), resulting in vivid and detailed images. Together with its 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels), the monitor’s good image quality is thus likely to find great appeal with those users interested in video and photo editing, but also is an attractive companion in day-to-day office work. Combined with Adaptive-Sync support (FreeSync compatible), 1 ms response time and low input lag, the display is equally appealing for gamers, who will benefit from crisp, highly detailed 4K visuals and the ultimate gaming experience.

Enhanced connectivity
Users will benefit from the monitor’s various inputs, making it possible to connect it to a variety of devices. Alongside DisplayPort 1.2a+, DVI and VGA inputs, the AOC U2879VF features an ultra-fast HDMI 2.0 connector that increases the bandwidth significantly to up to 18 Gb/s, making it possible to play 60fps 4K UHD video without any problems. This port also boasts MHL functionality which allows users to display content from a smartphone or tablet device while charging its battery at the same time.

Comfortable and efficient working experience
Aside from its impressive image quality and good connectivity, the AOC U2879VF also performs well for all home power-users who want to work efficiently and stay healthy at the same time. The integrated Picture by Picture (PBP) function makes it possible to view content from two input sources at the same time. Thanks to the monitor’s 4K UHD resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, both of the two virtual screens are displayed with a high pixel density (138 PPI). To improve user’s comfort while using the monitor, the AOC U2879VF includes Flicker-Free technology that reduces the flickering phenomenon commonly emitted by monitors. As a consequence, the display is less straining on the eye, making it more comfortable to work on the display for long periods of time.

The AOC U2879VF will be available in March 2016 for an MSRP of £279.99.

Posted in: Desktop Computing
By February 12, 2016 Read More →

ARCHOS 50d Oxygen – A revamped experience to be discovered!

50dARCHOS have unveiled their newest addition to its Oxygen line: the ARCHOS 50d Oxygen.

Beautifully updated screen and design

The ARCHOS 50d Oxygen will offer an incredible display and design. Its 5” screen, procures to the high-end feel and features from the Oxygen line. Featuring an impressive Full HD IPS screen (1920 x 1080), it delivers infinite contrasts and extra deep blacks thanks to Full Lamination. Every multimedia experience becomes breath taking. Set into an ultra slim and light, deep black body with a gold metal contour, the ARCHOS 50d Oxygen is the epitome of sleek, yet functional, modern design.

 

Unprecedented photo experience

 

The screen technology paired with the extra powerful 13 MP camera will sublime photos in incredible detail, taking them to unprecedented level. Moments will never be missed as photos can be snapped on the fly. The 5MP front camera allows for great video chat sessions with family and friends. Everywhere it goes, the ARCHOS 50d Oxygen has your back!

50da

 

Unparalleled power and speed

 

For users that demand more, the 2 GB of RAM that come alongside the 1.3 GHz Octo-Core processor make all tasks super smooth. Fluid, fast, and responsive, this smartphone is a perfect companion for users to enjoy true life-like content on-the-go. Multitasking is what it does best! In addition, downloading content, streaming movies, or surfing the web has never been so fast with the 4G/LTE technology. The good thing is that the ARCHOS 50d Oxygen is fully compatible with this connectivity.

 

Like all ARCHOS smartphones, the ARCHOS 50d Oxygen comes with dual-SIM support, so users may use both professional and personal phone lines at once, as well as access to Google Play. Additionally, the memory is expandable with a micro SD card and runs pure Android 5.1, “Lollipop”. Available in May 2016, the 50d Oxygen will provide users with an unparalleled experience.

 

Posted in: News, Phones, Press Releases
By February 4, 2016 Read More →

Digital signage solution made easy with the Vivitek NovoDS

NovoDSVivitek, a leading brand of visual display products, has today announced the NovoDS, an affordable and easy-to-manage digital signage solution. Ideal for creating dynamic visual displays for a corporate or public area, the digital signage content can incorporate text, photos, audio, video, and Web content in fully customizable configurations for a variety of settings. Versatile and flexible, the applications for the NovoDS range from corporate events and commercial spaces to educational facilities and public installations that need a quick and easy digital signage solution.  Designed for maximum convenience, the NovoDS is 4k2k-ready for the next generation of high-resolution displays, making it a cost-effective ultra-high-definition solution.

Easy to set up and use, the NovoDS offers the convenience of content refresh over both the network and SD card. It’s so easy to use, that even non-technical members of staff will feel at ease with it, thanks to drag-n-drop template customization and a highly intuitive playlist editing function. IT Managers will appreciate the NovoDS too, thanks to it being easy to manage over a network. Despite it supporting large-scale deployments, both private and public sector organisations will appreciate it for being both affordable and highly cost-effective.

“Vivitek is committed to responding to the growing and ever changing demands for digital signage solutions. That’s why with the NovoDS, we have set a new benchmark in its class for performance, ease of use and value for money. It presents private and public sector organisations with a compelling offering  that meets their need for a powerful, ultra-high-definition digital signage solution that can be install quickly and maintained easily,” stated Holger Graeff, Vivitek’s General Manager EMEA.

Suitable for applications and environments as diverse as government and public sector organizations, retail, education and hospitality, the NovoDS can play a significant role in boosting sales and awareness or sales, services or promotions by sharing relevant and easily updated information.

For user convenience, it boasts a standalone mode and a network mode. Its ease of use extends to drag’n’drop template customization and intuitive playlist editing. It also offers powerful device management and supports large deployments. Meanwhile, low TCO is assured as there is no software licence fee and future software upgrades are free.

 

Key features:

  • An easy-to-manage digital signage solution for creating dynamic multimedia content
  • Complete with a user-friendly interface to generate signage content with text, photos, audio, video,feeds, widgets, IP streams, USB and IP camera feeds — without needing programming skills
  • Fully customizable configuration for a variety of settings including but not limited to corporate events, commercial spaces, educational facilities and public installations
  • Includes 36 pre-made signage themes or simply create a customizable template
  • High Definition 1080p display quality with support for next generation ultra-high definition  (3840 x 2160) display
  • Display content directly from the built-in storage, microSD slot or USB flash drive
  • Update signage content via a wired or wireless connection
  • Network-based remote management and maintenance software for ease of deployment
  • Manage and monitor the status of multiple devices from the convenience of a network connected computer
  • Compatible with Windows® and Mac® operating systems
  • Plug-and-play for easy setup and configuration
  • Kensington® security slot to prevent theft or movement of the device
By February 3, 2016 Read More →

Presenting the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20

CF-20-productimage3_3_1_0_0_0The Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 delivers a new level of unrivalled versatility for mobile business computing as the first fully rugged detachable notebook. Offering the best of all worlds for mobile workers, the Toughbook can be used in 6 different modes to meet every business need. With its glove enabled touchscreen, up to 14 hour hot swappable battery life and purpose-built Vehicle Mount and Desktop Port Replicator, the Panasonic Toughbook CF-20 is an unrivalled rugged mobile business tool. 

Kitted out with a powerful Intel® Core™  m5-6Y57 vPro™ and running Windows 10 Pro this Toughbook manages to include the Intel® HD Graphics 515 chip and a 10.1” high brightness WUXGA (1920×1200) display featuring a capacitive 10 finger, glove enabled multi-touchscreen. Panasonic’s test show the computer can survive a 120cm drop and comes with Water and dust resistance factor or IP65.

 

 

 

By January 29, 2016 Read More →

MMD presents display highlights from Philips Monitors

aMMD, the leading technology company and brand license partner for Philips Monitors, will present some of its latest products at ISE 2016 – from 5K resolution to eye-protecting SoftBlue monitors. The Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) trade show is a show for professional AV and electronic systems and takes place 9-12 February at the Amsterdam RAI. MMD will be showcasing at the Philips stand 10-K136 and exhibits include the following products:

275P4VYKEB_f image

One standout highlight is the new Philips 27-inch LCD Monitor 275P4VYKEB with UltraClear 5K resolution. With 14.7 million pixels (5,120 x 2,880), the latest 5K resolution technology packs four times more content per screen inch than Quad HD resolution, for more dazzling visuals than ever. The new display is also equipped with PerfectKolor technology, which ensures factory-calibrated 99% Adobe RGB colour space and one billion colours. As well as brilliant colour and resolution, the display is thoughtfully engineered to fit the way people work, with webcam, MultiView for dividing the display space into multiple partitions, built-in speakers for great sound, as well as a non-glare screen and Flicker-Free technology for reduced eye fatigue. 

241P6VPJKEB_ftr_rflx

Another high-resolution display on show is the Philips 241P6VPJKEB. Despite its modest dimensions of 23.8 inches, the monitor brings a real sense of space to users’ desktops owing to the sharpness and clarity of the 4K resolution. It also features 1.074 billion colours, 99% sRGB colour standard and integrated webcam and microphone.

241P6EPJEB_ftl_rflx

Representing MMD’s line-up of Philips monitors with innovative SoftBlue technology, the 24-inch display 241P6EPJEB will be at ISE as well. SoftBlue technology protects eyes and reduces eye fatigue by mitigating the impact of blue-light exposure. It does this by eliminating blue light emissions at potentially harmful wavelengths, but without sacrificing the fidelity and quality of the original colour. Users therefore enjoy well-being for their eyes alongside professional-grade colour fidelity.

a

Furthermore, MMD showcases two Full HD USB Docking Monitors at ISE: a 21.5-inch model (221S6QUMB) and a 23-inch one (231P4QUPES). Thanks to integrated Ethernet, they provide one-plug access to desktop equipment, networks, intranet and Internet – via a single USB cable.

 

More information on Philips LCD monitors: www.philips.com/monitors

 

 

 

 

By January 27, 2016 Read More →

Montar AIR QI car mount

ConnectedWinnerGear recently launched Montar Air Qi Car Mount that is compatible with both phones and phablets. The team of young entrepreneurs has come up with another innovation that will make our life a bit easier. Featuring essential smartphone accessories in its line of products, WinnerGear has upgraded its Montar Car Mount with a superior version that supports wireless charging on the move.

“With a lot of driving accidents occurring lately, we have designed a car mount for mobile phones that has the strongest suction cup to keep your phone safe and charged while you drive,” said the company’s spokesperson.

A company aiming for innovation in smartphone accessories, WinnerGear has manufactured car mounts, waterproof covers and screen protectors in the past. For a safer driving experience, this company has released several in-car accessories that would take care of your smartphone while you’re driving.

The swiveling mount can be installed on windshields and dashboards. It can securely grip devices up to six inches and is compatible with iPhone6 Plus, Note 5 and the like. Additionally, it supports 2 Amp fast wireless charging on all Qi compatible handhelds and comes with a car charger with each package. Featuring a robust, aesthetic design, the car mount has the ideal size that does not obscure the road view if installed on the windshield. The mount itself can be charged via a car charger sporting a micro USB which can be plugged into the mount.

S6 Phone

“This is great for smartphone addicts,” explained the company’s spokesperson. “This mount is perfect if you have to attend calls and meetings on the go while being safe and preventing car accidents. Your phone won’t fall off and you can drive without taking your hands off the wheel. The best thing is that the phone can stay charged.”

This contraption for cellular phones rotates a full 360 degrees and uses a patented suction cup technology which the company previously released in a similar product “Montar Car Mount”; but that model did not support wireless charging.

Furthermore, the mount offers rubber protection to phones to prevent surface scratches and has an easy release mechanism to withdraw the cell phone.

“You don’t have to push or force the phone inside the holds. The installation is pretty straightforward. You don’t even have to take your eyes off the road.” The company’s spokesperson stated while giving a demonstration of the product.

With smooth lock and release mechanisms, the handheld devices will be safe from falls in case of road bumps or emergency breaks. Also included with the product is the 3M pad. This handy accessory makes it easier for the mount to stick to surfaces with curves, making it ideal for use on curved and textured dashboards.

“With big screened cell phones emerging in the market along with rampant battery issues, Montar Air Qi Car Mount makes a necessary addition for car drivers using a cell phone on the go,” the spokesperson commented.

  • Car Charger Included
  • Compatible With Devices Up To 6″ ( works with Note 5 )
  • Patented Suction Cup
  • Works With All Qi Devices
  • 360 Rotation
  • Rubber Protection On The Grip
  • 2 Years Warranty
  • Supports 2A Fast Charging


Amazon USA – http://amzn.to/1UaXKR4
Amazon UK –  http://amzn.to/1PgrJsx
WinnerGear Website – http://winnergear.com/product/montar-air-qi-car-mount/

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