CES: Stress relief made portable
by Lance Whitney
LAS VEGAS--After a long, hard week at CES, a little stress relief is in order. But can you achieve a peaceful state through a portable PC gadget?
Being demoed at CES this week is the Emwave 2 personal stress reliever from HeartMath. This portable device lets you monitor your stress levels and help you calm down. Specifically, it monitors your heart rhythms as an indicator of how stressed you may be. To use the device, you connect it to your PC and place your finger on its small monitor. A graph charting your heart patterns then appears on the PC.
Building on the original Emwave, the Emwave 2 lets you keep a running tab on your stress levels and see if and how you've been able to destress over time. The Emwave also includes software-based guides and images that try to help you move into a more zen-like state.
People are often naturally dubious of devices that claim they can help you destress. And with the Emwave sporting a price tag of $199, your wallet may end up feeling a bit of stress. But after taking the device for a spin, I did find it had a calming effect. I was able to monitor my own stress levels, which were initially rather high (this is CES after all). And by using deep breathing techniques, I was able to bring down those levels and find some inner calm that lasted for quite awhile.
Of course, I could have performed deep breathing and meditation on my own without the Emwave. But somehow having the gadget next to a computer where I can easily plug it in seems like a nice idea for the next time I need to destress, especially if it's the PC that's stressing me out.
The MathWave rep told me that the Emwave was based on more than 15 years of research on stress, emotions, and the connection between the heart and the brain. The company said the device is also used in health care facilities and hospitals to help patients monitor and control their stress levels.
Lance Whitney
MY THOUGHTS
this one's different from gadget where you (supposedly)smash down things. this one seems to be healthier although more expensive. you and i should be glad we probably don't need to buy this gadget. my stress levels are (still) very manageable? and they are not often, anyway.
Full Profile E-mail Lance Whitney
Lance Whitney wears a few different technology hats--journalist, Web developer, and software trainer. He's a contributing editor for Microsoft TechNet Magazine and writes for other computer publications and Web sites. Lance is a member of the CNET Blog Network, and he is not an employee of CNET.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Phone keeps ringing in crocodile's tummy
Phone keeps ringing in crocodile's tummy
Associated Press
Posted on Jan 22, 2011 at 11:46am IST
Kiev (Ukraine): The crocodile in "Peter Pan" happily went "tick-tock" after swallowing an alarm clock but a crocodile in Ukraine has been a little less fortunate.
Gena, a 14-year-old crocodile at the Dnipropetrovsk Oceanarium, has been refusing food and acting listless after eating a cell phone dropped by a woman trying to photograph him last month.
The phone kept ringing inside the crocodile for some time. Phone owner Rimma Golovko says she wants her SIM card back as it contains her photos and contacts.
The crocodile will be taken to a clinic for an X-ray next week to see if the phone is still there. Medics are considering surgery as a last resort.
MY THOUGHTS
what's the moral of the story? put your phone on silent mode or turn it off when at the zoo!!! (laughter!laughter) why a surgery? maybe let the croco drink those herbal teas?
Associated Press
Posted on Jan 22, 2011 at 11:46am IST
Kiev (Ukraine): The crocodile in "Peter Pan" happily went "tick-tock" after swallowing an alarm clock but a crocodile in Ukraine has been a little less fortunate.
Gena, a 14-year-old crocodile at the Dnipropetrovsk Oceanarium, has been refusing food and acting listless after eating a cell phone dropped by a woman trying to photograph him last month.
The phone kept ringing inside the crocodile for some time. Phone owner Rimma Golovko says she wants her SIM card back as it contains her photos and contacts.
The crocodile will be taken to a clinic for an X-ray next week to see if the phone is still there. Medics are considering surgery as a last resort.
MY THOUGHTS
what's the moral of the story? put your phone on silent mode or turn it off when at the zoo!!! (laughter!laughter) why a surgery? maybe let the croco drink those herbal teas?
DreamMate Sleep Inducer
No More Insomnia with DreamMate Sleep Inducer
Jan 19, 2011 ? By H.A.R.
So what exactly comes to your mind when you hear the word “gadget”? Let me guess. You probably think about blackberry phones, digital cameras and game consoles. Well, most people think the same. But have you ever heard about sleeping gadgets? Yes, you read it right. I really mean sleeping gadgets! Specifically, I’m talking about the DreamMate Sleep Inducer!
Designed to aid people who have sleeping problems, the DreamMate Sleep Inducer looks like a typical watch wrapped around the left wrist.
Unlike sleeping pills, this sleeping gadget can be used without a doctor’s prescription. It is definitely safe and guarantees zero side effects. This is because it works only on the so called “sleeping golden triangle” on the left wrist. By massaging this area, this sleep inducer is able to soothe a section of muscles and consequently indulge you into sleep.
For best results, makers of the sleep inducer recommend that you use the gadget 30 minutes before bedtime. Do this for about 8 weeks and you will see noticeable results. So why struggle with your sleeping problems that cause irritability and stress when there’s one effective gadget for you? Sources say it is available for $79.99.
MY THOUGHTS
quite expensive, huh? well, if it really works i wouldn't mind spending on something like this. think of the money you spend on sleeping pills,lavender oils, nighttime tea. anything you can get hold of just to get that much illusive sleep. i won't mind putting my money on gadgets like this.
Jan 19, 2011 ? By H.A.R.
So what exactly comes to your mind when you hear the word “gadget”? Let me guess. You probably think about blackberry phones, digital cameras and game consoles. Well, most people think the same. But have you ever heard about sleeping gadgets? Yes, you read it right. I really mean sleeping gadgets! Specifically, I’m talking about the DreamMate Sleep Inducer!
Designed to aid people who have sleeping problems, the DreamMate Sleep Inducer looks like a typical watch wrapped around the left wrist.
Unlike sleeping pills, this sleeping gadget can be used without a doctor’s prescription. It is definitely safe and guarantees zero side effects. This is because it works only on the so called “sleeping golden triangle” on the left wrist. By massaging this area, this sleep inducer is able to soothe a section of muscles and consequently indulge you into sleep.
For best results, makers of the sleep inducer recommend that you use the gadget 30 minutes before bedtime. Do this for about 8 weeks and you will see noticeable results. So why struggle with your sleeping problems that cause irritability and stress when there’s one effective gadget for you? Sources say it is available for $79.99.
MY THOUGHTS
quite expensive, huh? well, if it really works i wouldn't mind spending on something like this. think of the money you spend on sleeping pills,lavender oils, nighttime tea. anything you can get hold of just to get that much illusive sleep. i won't mind putting my money on gadgets like this.
Friday, January 21, 2011
THE E-CIGARETTE
The buzz on the e-cigarette
by Leo Marvin P. Balante
The electronic cigarette—China’s response on the challenge to put a stop on the increasing hazards of smoking across the globe—has taken a big leap in terms of sales from its invention back in 2004. The battery-operated alternative to regular tobacco products has been in circulation in an attempt to recapture the essence of smoking “the real thing without the health risks.”
Across Europe alone, leading manufacturer EdSylver reports, “We have seen sales grow by 30 percent each year since 2007 when we launched our product.” Here, the ballooned product sales of the e-cigarette is said to be the result of the Anti-Tobacco law that forced the known heavy-smoking populace across Europe to patronize the many variations of the said product. Recently, Spain joined the wave of countries imposing strict Anti-Tobacco laws creating more predictions of an increase in its sales even more despite the also increasing criticisms on the product.
The plastic cigarettes, engineered to produce non-nicotine based vaporized solution and “copy” the physical sensation of actual smoking, has created a lot of buzz as they are dubbed as the “revolutionary” answer to those who want to lessen the danger of smoking or better yet, to help quit the activity. While it has been marketed to ease off the amount of nicotine and tar intake to smokers, the growing popularity of electronic cigarettes also brought about numerous debates on its efficiency and on its effect to one’s health.
Known tobacco expert, Eduardo Bianco, declared in a World Health Organization conference in Uruguay last November, that the production of the plastic cigarettes sabotages and belittles efforts to stop smoking. The e-cigarette is predominantly considered a major health concern on consumers such that the users are inhaling artificial smoke from these “mini aerosols.”
In France, authorities have continued to frown upon the risks that may arise from using e-cigarettes. The National Office for Smoking Prevention is still sceptical about the main reason for the invention of the product, seconded by French National Committee Against Tobacco head Professor Yves Martinet saying, “For the moment, this product has not been evaluated in a scientific way.” In fact, a growing list of countries banning the product should also be taken into consideration–including Canada, Mexico, Australia, Israel, and Mexico. The US, on the other hand, imposed strict e-cigarette regulation on shipments for safety issues.
Even more talk on the product, from the side of the tobacco sellers, state that the manufacturers’ claim of the product’s market success is false. “Some of our members still have stocks from last year,” divulged Gerard Bohelay, an association of tobacco retailers head in France.
Despite the heavy seesaw of praise and negative critiques on the product, the electronic cigarettes continue to create a fan base even in the Philippines as it has swayed a growing number of consumers who wants to utilize what manufacturers advertise as a safer way to smoking. “If you want to try to quit smoking but still want take a few puffs here and there, e-cigarettes is the deal! No need for nicotine patches because it has helped create an illusion of smoking real cigars without the ‘nicotine part of it.’ Smoking indoors is also quite cool so why not take advantage of the product,” said product user architect Jin Li.
MY THOUGHTS
yeah! why not? the artificial smoke is probably better than the real thing. good or bad, i don't think it should be allowed inside offices. i kind of like the professional ambiance of a no-smoking office.
by Leo Marvin P. Balante
The electronic cigarette—China’s response on the challenge to put a stop on the increasing hazards of smoking across the globe—has taken a big leap in terms of sales from its invention back in 2004. The battery-operated alternative to regular tobacco products has been in circulation in an attempt to recapture the essence of smoking “the real thing without the health risks.”
Across Europe alone, leading manufacturer EdSylver reports, “We have seen sales grow by 30 percent each year since 2007 when we launched our product.” Here, the ballooned product sales of the e-cigarette is said to be the result of the Anti-Tobacco law that forced the known heavy-smoking populace across Europe to patronize the many variations of the said product. Recently, Spain joined the wave of countries imposing strict Anti-Tobacco laws creating more predictions of an increase in its sales even more despite the also increasing criticisms on the product.
The plastic cigarettes, engineered to produce non-nicotine based vaporized solution and “copy” the physical sensation of actual smoking, has created a lot of buzz as they are dubbed as the “revolutionary” answer to those who want to lessen the danger of smoking or better yet, to help quit the activity. While it has been marketed to ease off the amount of nicotine and tar intake to smokers, the growing popularity of electronic cigarettes also brought about numerous debates on its efficiency and on its effect to one’s health.
Known tobacco expert, Eduardo Bianco, declared in a World Health Organization conference in Uruguay last November, that the production of the plastic cigarettes sabotages and belittles efforts to stop smoking. The e-cigarette is predominantly considered a major health concern on consumers such that the users are inhaling artificial smoke from these “mini aerosols.”
In France, authorities have continued to frown upon the risks that may arise from using e-cigarettes. The National Office for Smoking Prevention is still sceptical about the main reason for the invention of the product, seconded by French National Committee Against Tobacco head Professor Yves Martinet saying, “For the moment, this product has not been evaluated in a scientific way.” In fact, a growing list of countries banning the product should also be taken into consideration–including Canada, Mexico, Australia, Israel, and Mexico. The US, on the other hand, imposed strict e-cigarette regulation on shipments for safety issues.
Even more talk on the product, from the side of the tobacco sellers, state that the manufacturers’ claim of the product’s market success is false. “Some of our members still have stocks from last year,” divulged Gerard Bohelay, an association of tobacco retailers head in France.
Despite the heavy seesaw of praise and negative critiques on the product, the electronic cigarettes continue to create a fan base even in the Philippines as it has swayed a growing number of consumers who wants to utilize what manufacturers advertise as a safer way to smoking. “If you want to try to quit smoking but still want take a few puffs here and there, e-cigarettes is the deal! No need for nicotine patches because it has helped create an illusion of smoking real cigars without the ‘nicotine part of it.’ Smoking indoors is also quite cool so why not take advantage of the product,” said product user architect Jin Li.
MY THOUGHTS
yeah! why not? the artificial smoke is probably better than the real thing. good or bad, i don't think it should be allowed inside offices. i kind of like the professional ambiance of a no-smoking office.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Portable
DreamGear Creates Ultimate Portable Battery
By Matthew Lentini | Thursday | 13/01/2011
dreamGear launched a portable battery that can fully charge an iPad two times over at CES, all while charging another four USB devices.
The i.Sound Portable Power Max by dreamGear is a 16,000 mAh battery that can charge up to five USB-powered devices at once. dreamGear boast its ability to charge an iPad two times over or an iPhone 11x with its own single charge. It also sports a built-in flashlight for finding cables in the dark.
The Power Max is the top unit in i.Sound's portable battery range and is the ideal solution for road trips where a single cigarette lighter won't suffice for more than just a single GPS navigator.
With its LED indicators for battery life, multiple ports and rectangular composition, the Portable Power Max resembles more of a router or portable HDD than anything else, but could be a life-saver on long trips or for anyone constantly draining their phone battery on the move.
MY THOUGHTS
isn't that great? a portable battery! what will they think of next?
By Matthew Lentini | Thursday | 13/01/2011
dreamGear launched a portable battery that can fully charge an iPad two times over at CES, all while charging another four USB devices.
The i.Sound Portable Power Max by dreamGear is a 16,000 mAh battery that can charge up to five USB-powered devices at once. dreamGear boast its ability to charge an iPad two times over or an iPhone 11x with its own single charge. It also sports a built-in flashlight for finding cables in the dark.
The Power Max is the top unit in i.Sound's portable battery range and is the ideal solution for road trips where a single cigarette lighter won't suffice for more than just a single GPS navigator.
With its LED indicators for battery life, multiple ports and rectangular composition, the Portable Power Max resembles more of a router or portable HDD than anything else, but could be a life-saver on long trips or for anyone constantly draining their phone battery on the move.
MY THOUGHTS
isn't that great? a portable battery! what will they think of next?
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Best Business Gadgets of 2010
The Best Business Gadgets of 2010
By Rick Broida
Now that we've closed the door on 2010, let's look back at some of the gadgets that made the year special. These six products stood out by making our business lives faster, easier, more affordable, more convenient, and even more fun. Did we leave out one of your 2010 favorites? Hit the comments below and share the object(s) of your gadget affection.
Apple iPad: Was There Any Doubt?
We had our doubts at first, and even after Apple's much-ballyhooed tablet arrived at our door, we weren't sold on its business acumen. Eight months later, we're using the iPad in all kinds of productivity-enhancing ways, from capturing notes to marking up PDFs to hosting or participating in online meetings. It can't fully take the place of a laptop, but more and more we're grabbing it to sub for one.
Clearwire Rover Puck: A No-Contract 4G Hotspot
Hello, future. Clearwire's cute-as-the-dickens mobile hotspot, the Rover Puck, delivers blazing-fast 4G connectivity goodness for up to eight Wi-Fi devices (and it's 802.11n Wi-Fi, too, not pokey old b or g). Even better, Clearwire doesn't saddle you with contracts or commitments like the Sprints and Verizons of the world. Instead, you can pay as you go: $5 for a day, $20 for a week, or $50 for a month. And the Puck itself sells for a reasonable $150. If you've got coverage in your area (it's not everywhere -- yet), get ready for affordable 4G heaven.
Square Credit-Card Reader: Payment Processing in Your Pocket
Not to put too fine a point on it, but the Square is a game-changer. Plug this amazingly compact gizmo into your Android phone or iOS device and presto: You can accept credit-card payments. Anytime, anywhere. Just swipe and go. Even more amazing, the Square is free; you pay only a very reasonable per-transaction fee. It's an incredible solution for instructors, salespeople, service providers, booth operators, and anyone else needing fast, convenient, mobile payment-processing. This one's in the running for Best Gadget of the Decade.
ShowWX+ Laser Pico Projector: Turn Any Room Into a Conference Room
The first few generations of pico projectors needed pitch-black rooms for decent visibility, and even then they weren't terribly bright. Microvision's ShowWX+ employs laser technology to help crank out a comparatively strong 15 lumens, with a presentation-friendly resolution of 848 x 480. Plug it into your iPhone, laptop, or whatever, then project your slides wherever there's a wall. The convenience factor is off the charts, and the image quality is among the best we've seen from a pico. Even the $400 price tag can't stem our enthusiasm for this pocket wonder.
Virgin Mobile MiFi 2200: All the Mobile-Hotspot Goodness, None of the Contracts
Virgin Mobile's version of the MiFi 2200 mobile hotspot looks and operates exactly like the Sprint and Verizon versions -- with a couple key exceptions. First, it's sold without a contract, so you're not on the hook for two year's worth of monthly payments. Second, you can pay as you go: $10 for 10 days/100MB, or $40 for 1 month/unlimited data. And because it operates on Sprint's network, you get the same awesome 3G connectivity (where available) for up to five devices. Granted, the Clearwire Rover Puck delivers 4G for about the same price, but if coverage isn't available in your area, this is the next best thing
Virgin Mobile Samsung Intercept: The World's Most Affordable Android Phone
The Virgin Mobile Samsung Intercept is not the fastest, thinnest, or most versatile Android phone. In fact, it's one of the slower models, with a screen and camera that could best be described as average. But it runs Android, with all the app goodness afforded therein, and Virgin Mobile offers the service deal of the century: voice plans starting at just $25 per month, each including unlimited texting and data. Want the obligatory two-year contract with that? Sorry, Virgin doesn't offer one. So there's no commitment whatsoever: If you outgrow the Intercept in, say, eight months, just sell it and move on. Note to every other phone carrier: that's how you treat your customers.
MY THOUGHTS
where have i been? how come i missed (hearing) about these wonderful gadgets? i'm particularly amazed with the rover puck, the credit card reader, and most of all, the laser pico projector. at $400, a corporate office should invest in this. very handy. very useful. especially for me.
By Rick Broida
Now that we've closed the door on 2010, let's look back at some of the gadgets that made the year special. These six products stood out by making our business lives faster, easier, more affordable, more convenient, and even more fun. Did we leave out one of your 2010 favorites? Hit the comments below and share the object(s) of your gadget affection.
Apple iPad: Was There Any Doubt?
We had our doubts at first, and even after Apple's much-ballyhooed tablet arrived at our door, we weren't sold on its business acumen. Eight months later, we're using the iPad in all kinds of productivity-enhancing ways, from capturing notes to marking up PDFs to hosting or participating in online meetings. It can't fully take the place of a laptop, but more and more we're grabbing it to sub for one.
Clearwire Rover Puck: A No-Contract 4G Hotspot
Hello, future. Clearwire's cute-as-the-dickens mobile hotspot, the Rover Puck, delivers blazing-fast 4G connectivity goodness for up to eight Wi-Fi devices (and it's 802.11n Wi-Fi, too, not pokey old b or g). Even better, Clearwire doesn't saddle you with contracts or commitments like the Sprints and Verizons of the world. Instead, you can pay as you go: $5 for a day, $20 for a week, or $50 for a month. And the Puck itself sells for a reasonable $150. If you've got coverage in your area (it's not everywhere -- yet), get ready for affordable 4G heaven.
Square Credit-Card Reader: Payment Processing in Your Pocket
Not to put too fine a point on it, but the Square is a game-changer. Plug this amazingly compact gizmo into your Android phone or iOS device and presto: You can accept credit-card payments. Anytime, anywhere. Just swipe and go. Even more amazing, the Square is free; you pay only a very reasonable per-transaction fee. It's an incredible solution for instructors, salespeople, service providers, booth operators, and anyone else needing fast, convenient, mobile payment-processing. This one's in the running for Best Gadget of the Decade.
ShowWX+ Laser Pico Projector: Turn Any Room Into a Conference Room
The first few generations of pico projectors needed pitch-black rooms for decent visibility, and even then they weren't terribly bright. Microvision's ShowWX+ employs laser technology to help crank out a comparatively strong 15 lumens, with a presentation-friendly resolution of 848 x 480. Plug it into your iPhone, laptop, or whatever, then project your slides wherever there's a wall. The convenience factor is off the charts, and the image quality is among the best we've seen from a pico. Even the $400 price tag can't stem our enthusiasm for this pocket wonder.
Virgin Mobile MiFi 2200: All the Mobile-Hotspot Goodness, None of the Contracts
Virgin Mobile's version of the MiFi 2200 mobile hotspot looks and operates exactly like the Sprint and Verizon versions -- with a couple key exceptions. First, it's sold without a contract, so you're not on the hook for two year's worth of monthly payments. Second, you can pay as you go: $10 for 10 days/100MB, or $40 for 1 month/unlimited data. And because it operates on Sprint's network, you get the same awesome 3G connectivity (where available) for up to five devices. Granted, the Clearwire Rover Puck delivers 4G for about the same price, but if coverage isn't available in your area, this is the next best thing
Virgin Mobile Samsung Intercept: The World's Most Affordable Android Phone
The Virgin Mobile Samsung Intercept is not the fastest, thinnest, or most versatile Android phone. In fact, it's one of the slower models, with a screen and camera that could best be described as average. But it runs Android, with all the app goodness afforded therein, and Virgin Mobile offers the service deal of the century: voice plans starting at just $25 per month, each including unlimited texting and data. Want the obligatory two-year contract with that? Sorry, Virgin doesn't offer one. So there's no commitment whatsoever: If you outgrow the Intercept in, say, eight months, just sell it and move on. Note to every other phone carrier: that's how you treat your customers.
MY THOUGHTS
where have i been? how come i missed (hearing) about these wonderful gadgets? i'm particularly amazed with the rover puck, the credit card reader, and most of all, the laser pico projector. at $400, a corporate office should invest in this. very handy. very useful. especially for me.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
iPhone 4 Review
iPhone 4 Review: Slick Design, So-So Call Quality
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
The iPhone 4 is, without a doubt, one of the best smartphones on the market today. It's speedy, svelte, and certainly slick. But the iPhone 4 didn't impress me quite as much as I expected, and this phone is more of an incremental upgrade from the iPhone 3GS rather than a must-have device.
Price and Availability
The iPhone 4 is available from AT&T, which sells the 16GB iPhone 4 for $199 and the 32GB iPhone 4 for $299 when you sign a two-year service contract with a compatible voice and data plan. (For more information, see .) You can buy the phone from AT&T, Apple, Best Buy, Radio Shack, and Walmart.
For more specifics on pricing, see How Much Does an iPhone 4 Cost? and AT&T Offers Early Upgrades on the iPhone 4.
Design
One of the most obvious differences between the iPhone 4 and past models is the new look of the phone. For one, it's noticeably thinner: the iPhone 4 measures just 9.3 millimeters thick -- 24 percent thinner than the already-svelte iPhone 3GS. Apple says it is "the thinnest smartphone on the planet," and it certainly does look tiny.
The iPhone 4 measures 4.5 inches tall by 2.31 inches wide by .37 inches thick. The iPhone 3GS, meanwhile, measures 4.5 inches tall by 2.4 inches wide by .48 inches thick. Put the two phones side by side, and the iPhone is noticeably smaller, all around.
But the iPhone 4 feels heftier than the iPhone 3GS. Both weigh 4.8 ounces, but that weight is rounded up; the iPhone 3GS actually weighs 135 grams while the iPhone 4 weighs 137 grams. It's not a huge difference, but the iPhone 4 does feel heavier in your hand than the 3GS.
The iPhone 4 also is more squared-off in shape, with a thicker metallic border running around the phone's edges. The new phone doesn't feature the plastic backing found on the iPhone 3GS and the iPhone 3G. Instead, the front and the back of the iPhone 4 are covered in aluminosilicate glass, which Apple says is found on helicopter and high-speed train windshields. It's designed to be significantly stiffer (20 times) and harder (30 times) than plastic, with a fingerprint-resistant finish. So far, the iPhone 4's case does seem to be resisting some smudges and smears, but I'll have to see how it holds up over time.
Display
One of the iPhone 4's most-hyped features is its display, which features an astounding resolution of 960 by 640. It measures the same size as the screen on the iPhone 3GS (3.5-inches diagonally), but packs in four times as many pixels. Apple calls it a "Retina display," and says it offers more pixels than the human eye can see. Experts have debated that claim, but the iPhone 4's screen does look remarkably crisp and clear.
Text looks sharp enough to jump off the screen. Colors look deeper and richer than they do on the iPhone 3GS, and images have a crispness that I haven't seen on another smartphone. The only complaint I have with the display is its size; after spending so much time testing out the 4.3-inch screen on the HTC EVO 4G, the iPhone 4's 3.5-inch display feels small.
Making Calls
Apple's iPhone is known for many things, but excellent call quality is not one of them. I was hoping that the iPhone 4's new design -- with the antenna built in to the steel frame that rings the phone -- would improve matters. But my test calls sounded just like calls made over my iPhone 3GS: loud enough and mostly clear, but with a bit of a background echo.
Many iPhone 4 users have complained of dropped calls and interference with their cellular service when they hold their phone near the bottom left corner of the device. I tried to test this out, and the first call I made with the iPhone 4 promptly dropped. I was unable to repeat this experience though, and have had no more dropped calls. I also have not seen any reduction in signal strength by holding the iPhone 4 in this area.
Software
The iPhone 4 runs version 4 of Apple's iOS. As always, Apple's mobile operating system is intuitive and easy to use; it works as you expect it to.
iOS 4 adds several new features, including a long-desired multitasking capability, which allows you to run more than one third-party app at a time. Multitasking works as advertised; to switch between apps, you minimize the one you're using to a tray, which you can access to go back to another application. It's not multitasking in the way that your computer can multitask; you can't always start a time-consuming process, like a download, and then go back to it when it's complete. That's because, most of the time, iPhone apps will suspend or go to sleep when you minimize them, and will only resume operation when you go back to them. And not all apps support multitasking, as developers have to add the capability on their own, which more should do over time.
Other new features in iOS 4 include folders for organizing all of your apps, a new Mail client, and a Game Center. For more information, see iPhone OS 4 Gets Multitasking and More.
Browsing the Web
Despite the "4" in its name, the iPhone 4 does not support 4G wireless networks. Still, you do have plenty of options for speedy Web browsing. The iPhone 4 now supports speedy 802.11n wireless networks, and you still get support for AT&T's high-speed 3G network.
The iPhone's Safari browser remains the best mobile browser I've used, without exception. You can see mobile or desktop versions of Web pages, can open multiple pages, and can zoom in and out with ease.
The iPhone's new iOS 4 also adds tethering capabilities, which allows you to use your iPhone as a modem to connect other devices to the Internet. Tethering requires the purchase of an additional $20-per-month tethering plan, though.
Camera
The iPhone 4 features a 5-megapixel shooter, which is a decent step up from the 3.2-megapixel camera found on the iPhone 3GS. It adds an LED flash and a 5x digital zoom. In my tests, images looked sharper and colors definitely popped, especially when viewed on the iPhone 4's gorgeous screen. But the LED flash wasn't terribly powerful.
In addition to snapping photos, the camera can record HD video clips at a resolution of up to 720p. Video clips captured with the iPhone 4 did look markedly better than those recorded with the iPhone 3GS.
The iPhone also features a front-facing camera for video chat through a feature called FaceTime. While FaceTime sounds impressive, it comes with some serious limitations: it works from iPhone 4 to iPhone 4 only, and video calls can only be conducted over Wi-Fi networks. I was unable to test it.
Bottom Line
If you already own an iPhone 3GS, the iPhone 4 is not necessarily a must-have upgrade, especially when you consider that many of its cool features are available for free with the iOS 4 software upgrade. But if you're craving that slick, svelte design, or if you've been using an older iPhone or smartphone, the iPhone 4 will amaze you with its speed and plentiful features. As long as you can live with its middling call quality, that is.
MY THOUGHTS
this is a good review, isn't it? take note that if you already have the 3G, the iPhone 4 is "not a necessary upgrade". unless you want to keep up with the fad. then you're in for some surprises in your life that you don't want to have.
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
The iPhone 4 is, without a doubt, one of the best smartphones on the market today. It's speedy, svelte, and certainly slick. But the iPhone 4 didn't impress me quite as much as I expected, and this phone is more of an incremental upgrade from the iPhone 3GS rather than a must-have device.
Price and Availability
The iPhone 4 is available from AT&T, which sells the 16GB iPhone 4 for $199 and the 32GB iPhone 4 for $299 when you sign a two-year service contract with a compatible voice and data plan. (For more information, see .) You can buy the phone from AT&T, Apple, Best Buy, Radio Shack, and Walmart.
For more specifics on pricing, see How Much Does an iPhone 4 Cost? and AT&T Offers Early Upgrades on the iPhone 4.
Design
One of the most obvious differences between the iPhone 4 and past models is the new look of the phone. For one, it's noticeably thinner: the iPhone 4 measures just 9.3 millimeters thick -- 24 percent thinner than the already-svelte iPhone 3GS. Apple says it is "the thinnest smartphone on the planet," and it certainly does look tiny.
The iPhone 4 measures 4.5 inches tall by 2.31 inches wide by .37 inches thick. The iPhone 3GS, meanwhile, measures 4.5 inches tall by 2.4 inches wide by .48 inches thick. Put the two phones side by side, and the iPhone is noticeably smaller, all around.
But the iPhone 4 feels heftier than the iPhone 3GS. Both weigh 4.8 ounces, but that weight is rounded up; the iPhone 3GS actually weighs 135 grams while the iPhone 4 weighs 137 grams. It's not a huge difference, but the iPhone 4 does feel heavier in your hand than the 3GS.
The iPhone 4 also is more squared-off in shape, with a thicker metallic border running around the phone's edges. The new phone doesn't feature the plastic backing found on the iPhone 3GS and the iPhone 3G. Instead, the front and the back of the iPhone 4 are covered in aluminosilicate glass, which Apple says is found on helicopter and high-speed train windshields. It's designed to be significantly stiffer (20 times) and harder (30 times) than plastic, with a fingerprint-resistant finish. So far, the iPhone 4's case does seem to be resisting some smudges and smears, but I'll have to see how it holds up over time.
Display
One of the iPhone 4's most-hyped features is its display, which features an astounding resolution of 960 by 640. It measures the same size as the screen on the iPhone 3GS (3.5-inches diagonally), but packs in four times as many pixels. Apple calls it a "Retina display," and says it offers more pixels than the human eye can see. Experts have debated that claim, but the iPhone 4's screen does look remarkably crisp and clear.
Text looks sharp enough to jump off the screen. Colors look deeper and richer than they do on the iPhone 3GS, and images have a crispness that I haven't seen on another smartphone. The only complaint I have with the display is its size; after spending so much time testing out the 4.3-inch screen on the HTC EVO 4G, the iPhone 4's 3.5-inch display feels small.
Making Calls
Apple's iPhone is known for many things, but excellent call quality is not one of them. I was hoping that the iPhone 4's new design -- with the antenna built in to the steel frame that rings the phone -- would improve matters. But my test calls sounded just like calls made over my iPhone 3GS: loud enough and mostly clear, but with a bit of a background echo.
Many iPhone 4 users have complained of dropped calls and interference with their cellular service when they hold their phone near the bottom left corner of the device. I tried to test this out, and the first call I made with the iPhone 4 promptly dropped. I was unable to repeat this experience though, and have had no more dropped calls. I also have not seen any reduction in signal strength by holding the iPhone 4 in this area.
Software
The iPhone 4 runs version 4 of Apple's iOS. As always, Apple's mobile operating system is intuitive and easy to use; it works as you expect it to.
iOS 4 adds several new features, including a long-desired multitasking capability, which allows you to run more than one third-party app at a time. Multitasking works as advertised; to switch between apps, you minimize the one you're using to a tray, which you can access to go back to another application. It's not multitasking in the way that your computer can multitask; you can't always start a time-consuming process, like a download, and then go back to it when it's complete. That's because, most of the time, iPhone apps will suspend or go to sleep when you minimize them, and will only resume operation when you go back to them. And not all apps support multitasking, as developers have to add the capability on their own, which more should do over time.
Other new features in iOS 4 include folders for organizing all of your apps, a new Mail client, and a Game Center. For more information, see iPhone OS 4 Gets Multitasking and More.
Browsing the Web
Despite the "4" in its name, the iPhone 4 does not support 4G wireless networks. Still, you do have plenty of options for speedy Web browsing. The iPhone 4 now supports speedy 802.11n wireless networks, and you still get support for AT&T's high-speed 3G network.
The iPhone's Safari browser remains the best mobile browser I've used, without exception. You can see mobile or desktop versions of Web pages, can open multiple pages, and can zoom in and out with ease.
The iPhone's new iOS 4 also adds tethering capabilities, which allows you to use your iPhone as a modem to connect other devices to the Internet. Tethering requires the purchase of an additional $20-per-month tethering plan, though.
Camera
The iPhone 4 features a 5-megapixel shooter, which is a decent step up from the 3.2-megapixel camera found on the iPhone 3GS. It adds an LED flash and a 5x digital zoom. In my tests, images looked sharper and colors definitely popped, especially when viewed on the iPhone 4's gorgeous screen. But the LED flash wasn't terribly powerful.
In addition to snapping photos, the camera can record HD video clips at a resolution of up to 720p. Video clips captured with the iPhone 4 did look markedly better than those recorded with the iPhone 3GS.
The iPhone also features a front-facing camera for video chat through a feature called FaceTime. While FaceTime sounds impressive, it comes with some serious limitations: it works from iPhone 4 to iPhone 4 only, and video calls can only be conducted over Wi-Fi networks. I was unable to test it.
Bottom Line
If you already own an iPhone 3GS, the iPhone 4 is not necessarily a must-have upgrade, especially when you consider that many of its cool features are available for free with the iOS 4 software upgrade. But if you're craving that slick, svelte design, or if you've been using an older iPhone or smartphone, the iPhone 4 will amaze you with its speed and plentiful features. As long as you can live with its middling call quality, that is.
MY THOUGHTS
this is a good review, isn't it? take note that if you already have the 3G, the iPhone 4 is "not a necessary upgrade". unless you want to keep up with the fad. then you're in for some surprises in your life that you don't want to have.
Friday, January 7, 2011
CES 2011: Android Phones, Tablets, and More
CES 2011: Android Phones, Tablets, and More
A plethora of new products are debuting at the Consumer Electronics Show.
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
The giant Consumer Electronics Show is now underway in Las Vegas, and plenty of new products are making their debut. Among them are a plethora of new smartphones, cell phones, and tablets.
BlackBerry 4G PlayBook
Sprint, which already announced HTC EVO Shift 4G smartphone ahead of the show, is making plans for another 4G device: the BlackBerry 4G PlayBook tablet (pictured above). The long-awaited BlackBerry tablet will feature a 7-inch touchscreen, a 1-Ghz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, and support for Adobe Flash. It also will include support for Wi-Fi and Sprint's 4G cellular data network.
Additional features include front and rear-facing cameras, and the ability to play 1080p HD video. The tablet will run a version of RIM's BlackBerry OS designed specifically for use on tablets. The OS will support multi-tasking and will be able to run apps.
The BlackBerry 4G PlayBook will be available this summer, but pricing has not been disclosed.
Motorola Atrix
AT&T used CES to unveil the Motorola Atrix 4G, a smartphone that's also a computer of sorts. The Atrix 4G features a high-power 1-GHz NVIDIA tegra 2 dual-core CPU. The Android-based phone also features Motorola's webtop application, which allows the phone to run the desktop version of the Firefox browser.
And the Atrix 4G gets even more desktop-like when used with Motorola's Laptop Dock, an accessory that features an 11.6-inch screen and a full keyboard. While the dock looks like a laptop, it's actually powered by the phone's computing power -- putting a whole new twist on the idea of mobile computing.
T-Mobile G-Slate
T-Mobile and LG, meanwhile, announced plans to offer an Android-based tablet, called the T-Mobile G-Slate. The device, which T-Mobile says will "be available in coming months," will run Android 3.0, a version of the OS that is optimized for tablets.
The G-Slate will run on T-Mobile's high-speed, 4G-like HSPA+ network. Pricing and additional product details will announced at a later date, T-Mobile says.
Motorola Cliq 2
T-Mobile also announced a new Android-based phone, the Cliq 2. This handset, a follow-up to both the original Motorola Cliq and the Cliq XT, includes support for T-Mobile's 4G-like HSPA+ network. The phone runs version 2.2 of the Android OS. Additional features include a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, a 5-megapixel camera, FM radio, and a 3.7-inch touchscreen.
Pricing and a launch date have not yet been announced.
Sony Ericsson Xperia arc
Sony Ericsson also has announced a new Android-based smartphone, the Xperia arc. This phone, the successor to Sony Ericsson's Xperia X10, features Android version 2.3 and sports a 4.2-inch touchscreen. It will be available in overseas markets in early 2011, but a U.S. launch date has not been announced.
MY THOUGHTS
click on the link to see the pics. i don't know about you. me, i've given up the "catch-up" game with technology. it can be stressful. and expensive. and... never mind!
A plethora of new products are debuting at the Consumer Electronics Show.
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
The giant Consumer Electronics Show is now underway in Las Vegas, and plenty of new products are making their debut. Among them are a plethora of new smartphones, cell phones, and tablets.
BlackBerry 4G PlayBook
Sprint, which already announced HTC EVO Shift 4G smartphone ahead of the show, is making plans for another 4G device: the BlackBerry 4G PlayBook tablet (pictured above). The long-awaited BlackBerry tablet will feature a 7-inch touchscreen, a 1-Ghz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, and support for Adobe Flash. It also will include support for Wi-Fi and Sprint's 4G cellular data network.
Additional features include front and rear-facing cameras, and the ability to play 1080p HD video. The tablet will run a version of RIM's BlackBerry OS designed specifically for use on tablets. The OS will support multi-tasking and will be able to run apps.
The BlackBerry 4G PlayBook will be available this summer, but pricing has not been disclosed.
Motorola Atrix
AT&T used CES to unveil the Motorola Atrix 4G, a smartphone that's also a computer of sorts. The Atrix 4G features a high-power 1-GHz NVIDIA tegra 2 dual-core CPU. The Android-based phone also features Motorola's webtop application, which allows the phone to run the desktop version of the Firefox browser.
And the Atrix 4G gets even more desktop-like when used with Motorola's Laptop Dock, an accessory that features an 11.6-inch screen and a full keyboard. While the dock looks like a laptop, it's actually powered by the phone's computing power -- putting a whole new twist on the idea of mobile computing.
T-Mobile G-Slate
T-Mobile and LG, meanwhile, announced plans to offer an Android-based tablet, called the T-Mobile G-Slate. The device, which T-Mobile says will "be available in coming months," will run Android 3.0, a version of the OS that is optimized for tablets.
The G-Slate will run on T-Mobile's high-speed, 4G-like HSPA+ network. Pricing and additional product details will announced at a later date, T-Mobile says.
Motorola Cliq 2
T-Mobile also announced a new Android-based phone, the Cliq 2. This handset, a follow-up to both the original Motorola Cliq and the Cliq XT, includes support for T-Mobile's 4G-like HSPA+ network. The phone runs version 2.2 of the Android OS. Additional features include a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, a 5-megapixel camera, FM radio, and a 3.7-inch touchscreen.
Pricing and a launch date have not yet been announced.
Sony Ericsson Xperia arc
Sony Ericsson also has announced a new Android-based smartphone, the Xperia arc. This phone, the successor to Sony Ericsson's Xperia X10, features Android version 2.3 and sports a 4.2-inch touchscreen. It will be available in overseas markets in early 2011, but a U.S. launch date has not been announced.
MY THOUGHTS
click on the link to see the pics. i don't know about you. me, i've given up the "catch-up" game with technology. it can be stressful. and expensive. and... never mind!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)