News

The HTC Diamond

We first heard about the HTC Diamond a few months ago when we learned from our contact at Orange that a new HTC product had appeared in the ‘coming soon’ section of the Orange price list.

Initial enquiries didn’t reveal much about the origins of the HTC Diamond – my initial thoughts were that this would be an existing HTC device that had been renamed for the Orange market. Our contacts as HTC even said that they had never heard of the HTC Diamond before.

However, we now know a little more about the HTC Diamond and can reveal the following:

The HTC Diamond will be HTC’s top-end device, it has been designed to compete directly with the Apple iPhone. Specs are said to include: 2.8″ VGA screen, 4GB Flash Memory, Multi-touch, new touchflo (TouchFlo II), Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, Qualcomm MSM 7201A @ 528MHz, 256MB ROM / 128MB RAM, 7.2MB HSDPA / HSUPA (rev A EVDO for Sprint versions), WiFi, Bluetooth 2.0, eGPS, 3.1MP Camera with flash, Forward facing camera, TV out (Raphael only), Orientation sensor, FM Radio, microSD expansion, Diamond: 51x99x10.7mm – Raphael: 51x99x17mm

You can expect to see an annoucement from HTC in the very near future and this is something that we are going to be very involved with so watch this space for updates over the next few weeks. We suspect that the Diamond will be revealed at the press converence on the 6th May.

The suggested release date is June 2008.

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone news, Pocket PC news, Tracy & Matt, Orange, HTC, HTC Diamond]

Samsung i780 now SIM-Free

A few weeks ago we reviewed the Orange version of the Samsung i780. Our reviewer, Steve, quite liked the device but as Orange were the first to bring the device to market it left those on other networks wanting.

However, yesterday Clove Technology received what they believe is the first UK stock of SIM-Free and Unlocked Samsung i780’s. You can pick up the device for £320 + VAT.

Overview

The Stylish Samsung i780 will be an ideal tool for your mobile messaging and communication requirements. Equipped with a 2.6″ touch screen Bluetooth, Wifi and a HSDPA there are few limits with the Samsung i780.

Ergonomic design and a QWERTY keyboard make text and data entry simple.

Added functionality comes from a 2 megapixel camera and a VGA camera for video calling. Utilise the MicroSD card slot for additional storage of media and files, especially for files such as images and movies that you may wish to enjoy.

Features

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone blog, Pocket PC blog, Tracy & Matt, Samsung, i780]

HTC Shift hits Orange Website

Well I said it was coming but today the HTC Shift has appeared on the Orange website under their devices ‘Coming Soon’ section.

No word from Orange on the price of the device nor on the tariff that you’ll be expected to sign up to but the HTC Shift is avalaible SIM-free from our friends at Devicewire for £874.

We currently have an HTC Shift that we are putting through its paces and you may want to read Alasdair’s ‘Living with the Shift‘ reports.

More news as we get it…

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone news, Pocket PC news, Tracy & Matt, Orange, HTC, HTC Shift, Microsoft Communicator]

Sony introduces MDR-NC500D noise cancelling headphones

Noise cancelling headphones are not exactly a new concept but Sony have just introduced the world’s first digital noise cancelling headphones, the MDR-NC500D. Sony claim that these are the first headphones to use digital technology with Artificial Intelligence.

These full sized headphones can hardly be called discrete and wont be everyone’s cup of tea but for those that commute on noisy trains or planes they may well be worth a look, or a listen.

You can find out more by reading the press release from Sony below:

Sony MDR-NC500D headphones

Now travellers can enjoy their favourite music in absolute serenity, with the world’s first digital noise cancelling headphones from Sony.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or train commuter needing to shut out engine noise – or just keen to reduce distracting sounds at work – the new MDR-NC500D cuts an incredible 99% of ambient noise while bathing you in supreme hi-fi sound.

The MDR-NC500D represents a radical departure from conventional noise cancelling headphones. They’re the first ever headphones to use digital technology with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve noise cancellation performance while ensuring optimum audio quality.

A powerful processor inside the MDR-NC500D automatically adapts the cancellation profile to suit the characteristics of ambient noise. In normal use, pushing the ‘AI Mode’ button makes the headphones select automatically from three cancellation modes to suit the surroundings – whether on an aircraft, a bus or train, or in the office. Alternatively, pressing down and holding the mode switch allows the user to manually select the cancellation profile that’s most effective in their environment. A monitor switch is provided for temporary listening to external sounds like cabin announcements.

Class-leading noise cancelling ability is complemented by superb reproduction. Generously-sized 40mm drivers deliver an extended frequency response, high signal to noise ratio and excellent dynamic range.

With a generous 15 hours of operation between charges of the supplied lithium ion battery, the MDR NC500D shuts out distracting noise for the longest continental flight or train journey. For extra convenience, it can also operate using disposable AA cells if you don’t have a charging point handy while you’re travelling.

The premium protective travel case provides a handy pocket for storing your MP3 player or passport and storage for all the components that support these headphones.

Also new from Sony, the sleekly-styled MDR-NC40 offers excellent noise cancelling performance with comfortable extended wear. The light, space-saving folding design is ideal for travellers and commuters who want to enjoy quality audio with great isolation in an affordable, sleekly styled package.

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone news, Pocket PC news, Tracy & Matt, MDR-NC500D, headphones]

Windows Mobile 6.1 video

Just a few days ago we were talking about HTC’s WM6.1 announcement but (naturally) the folks at Microsoft have gone one better and have recorded a nice 40 minute video that showcases all the new Windows Mobile 6.1 features and capabilities.

Windows Mobile 6.1

The video is definitely worth watching, you can find out about:

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone blog, Pocket PC blog, Tracy & Matt, HTC TOUCH, HTC, WM6.1, Windows Mobile Blog]

HTC releases WM6.1 version of HTC Touch Dual in US

Yesterday HTC revealed a new version of the HTC Touch Dual which now includes Windows Mobile 6.1

In the press release, which you can see below, HTC also say that they are going to provide a (Free?) WM6.1 update for many of their existing devices including the HTC Touch and the TyTN II.

HTC Corp. revealed that the popular HTC Touch Dual™ will debut in the United States this quarter. Announced today at the Cellular Telecommunication and Internet Association (CTIA) Wireless 2008 spring conference, the HTC Touch Dual™ combines an intuitive touch screen with integrated TouchFLO™ technology and slide-out keypad and Microsoft Corp.’s Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional software, making it easier for customers to communicate on the go.

“HTC has witnessed incredible support and demand for the Touch product portfolio, and we are pleased to provide our customers with the opportunity to experience additional iterations of the Touch product family,” said Jason Mackenzie, vice president of HTC America. “The Touch Dual will be among the first devices in the United States to run Windows Mobile 6.1 and will be followed by a range of 6.1 updates for several other HTC products.”

Software Upgrades Available on HTC Devices

In partnership with Microsoft and key mobile operator partners, HTC will continue to extend the functionality of many current HTC devices both in the United States and abroad by providing Windows Mobile 6.1 updates. Windows Mobile 6.1, an update to Windows Mobile 6, provides new timesaving features, easier phone navigation and management, stronger security safeguards, and support for Microsoft System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008. Some of HTC’s most popular smartphones including the Touch by HTC and Mogul by HTC from Sprint, AT&T Tilt, Alltel Wireless’ HTC Touch and PPC6800, and the HTC TyTN II, will be among the first of many devices available for a Windows Mobile 6.1 upgrade.

Supporting existing customers and enhancing their experiences continues to be a focus for HTC; Sprint and HTC recently provided an update for the popular Mogul by HTC, making it the industry’s first EV-DO Rev. A-capable handset while also enabling additional GPS functionality.

“Windows Mobile enhances people’s lives by providing them with an experience that keeps them close to what’s important to them — anywhere, anytime,” said John O’Rourke, general manager of the Mobile Communications Business, Microsoft. “HTC has a history of providing a great selection of popular Windows Mobile phones, and we are pleased to bring the latest in software to a range of its products around the world.”

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone blog, Pocket PC blog, Tracy & Matt, HTC TOUCH, HTC, WM6.1, Windows Mobile Blog]

Mobiles on planes, a step closer

I can’t think of anything worse, imagine sitting on a plane for 8 hours next to someone that uses the their mobile phone the whole time. A thirty minute train journey is bad enough, and you have the option to move to another seat or stand on a train but you just know that you’ll be stuck next to the noisy one on your flight!

The above may well become a reality if the plans get passed by Ofcom. Ofcom, which has been examining the proposals since last year, said that the plans would be subject to approval by the relevant British and European aviation bodies. The regulator said that the decision had been developed with other European Union countries and that the system could be used in European airspace.

Under the plan, airlines would allow passengers to use cellphones once planes reach a minimum altitude of 3,000 meters, or 10,000 feet.

So what do you think? Personally I would be pleased to be able to use data and text based mobile services but I would rather that voice services be barred, either that or have very strict rules as to where and when phones could be used on the flight, perhaps insisting that calls be made and received only in the galley areas.

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone blog, Pocket PC blog, aviation, ofcom, Tracy & Matt]

Toshiba G810 pre-order

The Portégé G810 is another great looking new device from Toshiba and one that I suspect will be quite popular. So the folks over at Clove Technology have started accepting advanced orders on the G810. If you want to make sure that you are one of the first to own one of these bad-boys then head over to the product page and reserve one!

Toshiba Portégé G810

The Toshiba Portégé G810 is the perfect device for those users that need to be fully functional whilst mobile. Whether it is to keep in touch with the office and friends, browse the web, share photos and videos or just trying to get from A to B on time – the Portégé G810 is mobile device for those who like to have it all. It also has a new and enhanced user interface and with the stylish touch screen it’s both simple and easy to use.

The Portégé G810 is the ideal mobile-working device. With Windows Mobile you have access to the Microsoft Office Mobile applications you need to carry on working whilst out and about, and with push e-mail you can read and respond to e-mails immediately.

The Portégé.G810 is also the perfect personal device for socialising and having fun. With support for both HSDPA and HSUPA you can surf the web, download and upload pictures and videos captured on the 3 mega-pixel camera at broadband speeds; whilst Windows Media Player Mobile and a high quality 65K colour screen, brings entertainment on the move, whether it’s viewing video clips or photos or just listening to some favourite tunes.

With a large 2.8” QVGA touch screen and an enhanced user interface, navigation and access to applications on the Portege G180 is simple. The G810’s large screen also ensures the user can see more information with less scrolling.

Built-in GPS and A-GPS function also allows you navigate from A-B with ease (software required).

The design of the Portégé G810 is both sleek and slim. At only 14mm thin, in a stylish black mirror finish, it is perfect for even the most discerning user. The G810 also has all the usual functions and features expected such as MMS, SMS and FM radio, with full connectivity to GSM/GPRS/EDGE and 3G as well as support for Bluetooth, WiFi and a micro SD card, it is easy and simple to keep in touch.

Toshiba G810 Specification:

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone blog, Pocket PC blog, Windows Mobile blog, G810, Toshiba, Tracy & Matt]

Philips announce their new Wireless Audio Centre

Philips have today announced their new Wireless Audio Centre the WACS7500.

Philips WACS7500

The WACS7500 is Philips most complete Wireless Audio Centre to date, boasting a new fresh design, improved sound quality and a host of new features including – for the first time – access to the huge range of radio stations available on the Internet.

Following the pioneering concept of its predecessors, the WACS7500 consists of a main unit (WAC7500) and an additional station (WAS7500). CDs inserted into the main unit are automatically ripped and stored on the internal 80Gb hard disk –enough capacity for up to 1500 albums.

The stored tracks can then be accessed for immediate playback or can be distributed wirelessly to up to five WAS7500 stations located anywhere in the home.

The same digital track can be enjoyed simultaneously in each location or alternatively independent track selections can be streamed to each of the five stations.

In addition, the WACS7500 can also be easily integrated into an existing wireless home network enabling music from a PC to be played through the system while also providing two-way transfer of tracks.

Audio performance has been improved thanks to changes to the flat panel speaker system. In addition to new mid-range panels the WACS7500 includes dedicated tweeter panels to deliver a cleaner, more detailed hi-end sound. Plus the integrated subwoofer replaces twin side mounted ports with a single, larger downward firing port for a full but tight bass performance.

The WACS7500 boasts a slick new design and joins a family of matching minimalist-styled products in the Philips Design Collection. The main unit is 20mm slimmer than its predecessor and incorporates a luxurious glass stand. Extensive manual controls are located on the sides of the units while both the centre and station also now feature crisp colour screens with the option of vividly displayed album artwork for the tracks being played.

An improved user interface now uses Philips’ slick SuperScroll system – found in Philips’ portable MP3 players – providing fast and accurate track or album navigation.

The WACS7500 is the first Philips Wireless Audio Centre to provide access to the huge number of radio stations available on the Internet. For added convenience, Philips has partnered with BlueBeat, Live365 and Radioio, providing immediate access to their huge selections of web radio stations while additional stations can also easily be added to the system via the Club Philips website.

Consumers can also claim a free iPod/Philips GoGear docking station, which allows music on the portable jukebox to be played back through the WACS7500, while also recharging the player.

Alternatively, music on a memory stick player to be played directly through the WAC7500 and WAS7500 thanks to USB Direct functionality.

An Ethernet connection also enables tracks to be backed up onto a PC or external Hard Disk and also accesses the very latest Gracenote CD database, ensuring track listings are always up-to-date.

The WACS7500 is the latest addition to the Philips family of Streamium products which also includes the WAC3500D wireless micro Hi-Fi system and WAK3300 wireless music alarm clock station. In stores now, the WACS7500 is available for an approximate suggested high street selling price of £699.99 with additional WAS7500 stations also available for £199.99.

Posted by: Matt

[Post tag(s): smartphone, Pocket PC, HTC, Philips, Bluetooth, Tracy & Matt]

Samsung i600 dust – Solved?

If you have a Samsung i600 the chances are that you’ll have at least some dust under your screen. In fact, despite being quite carful with my own i600 I ended up with a considerable amount of dust under the screen as I reported in my post about 9 months ago.

Even late i600 models did not have this issue addressed and both American (Samsung Blackjack) and European models are affected.

Fortunately one of our readers, Andy, has come up with a solution to the problem and has posted the complete procedure on Instructables.com

You will have to take your phone apart in order to sort things out but Andy assures me that it’s a fairly simple procedure which just requires a small philips screwdriver and some blu-tack!

Posted by: Matt

[Post tags: smartphone blog, Pocket PC blog, Tracy & Matt, Samsung SGH-i600, Samsung, Windows Mobile blog]