We enjoyed the teaser campaign for the Sony Ericsson Xperia Pureness, even if it was rendered a little brief by the sudden announcement of all the details. Originally planned for November, we were wondering where the designer handset had got to, but now we know - it's coming to Selfridges in early December.

As previously reported, the device is "targeted at the older affluent mobile user who wants basic functions". It does talk, texts and the time, and that's about it. It doesn't even have a colour screen. However, that might be for design reasons - the phone also has a transparent lcd and "subtle illumination" of the buttons.

The phone measures 102 x 43 x 13mm, and weighs 70 grams. It's available in black only, and costs a whopping ?530, being sold exclusively at Selfridges. One for your Christmas list, perhaps?

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Sony Ericsson Xperia Sony Ericsson Xperia Pureness

Xperia Pureness comes to Selfridges originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:40:44 +0000

The Motorola Milestone, the non-Verizon variant of the Droid by Motorola, has seen an online UK retailer put the new, high-end handset up for pre-order.

If SuperETrader is to be believed, we can expect the Milestone to touchdown in the UK on 7 December with a ?439-shaped wedge of cash required to take one home.

For that price, the site is offering the device unlocked and SIM-free, in black, with next-day delivery charged at an extra ?7.99.

We've previously asked Motorola when we might see the launch of the Android-based phone in the UK.

A Motorola spokesperson said: "We've not yet announced availability of this device in other markets, but look forward to continuing to expand our Android-based portfolio around the world".

The Motorola Milestone has launched on O2 in Germany, suggesting the operator may offer the mobile here too. We will keep you posted.

UPDATE: Clove is also offering the Milestone on pre-order for 7 December, priced at just over ?401. Thanks to Tom for the tip.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Motorola Motorola Droid Motorola Milestone Android Rumours SuperETrader Clove

Motorola Milestone up for £439 UK pre-order originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:32:08 +0000

Google has announced the launch of a mobile version of the new Google Search results for movies with a light-hearted promo vid.

With the claim that the service makes it easier to plan a trip to the movies, the app works for iPhones, Palm webOS handsets and Android-powered devices.

To use it, go to google.com in the phone's web browser, search for "movies", and then tap on the "More movies" link. From there, Google says, you can either browse a list of movies or "select the 'Theaters' button to browse a list of theaters near you".

The new movie listings page includes buttons to play trailers on your phone, ratings and categories, movie posters, upcoming showtimes, as well as a list of the nearest cinemas.

The new search results for movies are available in English in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Google Search engines Video Home Cinema

VIDEO: Google Mobile offers movie search originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:55:27 +0000

New gPhone whispers suggest that Google is gearing up for no less than "an all-out assault on the mobile phone market".

The report, from The Times, states that the new, Google-branded handset we've heard about of late will encompass "the first comprehensive Google phone service with unlimited free calls", and a built-in, advanced version of Google Voice.

"For the first time", says the paper, "a single company will control everything from the software in users' phones to the services they use to make calls and surf the web".

The Google handset is said to be "one of the most advanced smartphones, with a large touchscreen display and a [Qualcomm] processor almost twice as fast as the one powering Apple's iPhone 3GS".

It's likely to offer the future version of Android code-named "Flan", which continues the cake-themed updates, and is said to bring high-speed 3D gaming.

As mobile phone operators may be unwilling to offer a device that offers free Google Voice calls, it's suggested that Google may offer the handset direct to the public, although this could push the cost up to over ?500 - but it's a price some disillusioned consumers may be willing to pay.

This latest report pegs a gPhone launch as early as next year in the US - we will keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Google gPhone Rumours Mobile phone industry Android Google Voice

Google planning "all-out assault" on mobile market with gPhone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:13:50 +0000

Fring has rolled out an update to its mobile phone application that allows users to conduct video calls over the mobile web. Fring video enables you to use both Wi-Fi and 3G to make calls to other Fring users or to your Skype or GTalk contacts.

Fring is an IM aggregator that connects up with IM networks like MSN, AIM, GoogleTalk and Skype, as well as social networks like?Twitter, Facebook, and Last.fm. You can make voice calls over the service, using apps on Symbian, Android and iPhone handsets, and now video calls too.

However, for the moment the video functionality is limited to a small subset of Nokia devices - the N97 mini, N97, 5800, N95 8G, N95 and N82. Fring promises that the functionality will be rolled out across a number of other platforms "very shortly".

Grab the download from Fring's website.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Fring VoIP Video

VIDEO: Fring rolls out mobile video calls originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:53:41 +0000

The new First ELSE phone, and its ELSE Intuition operating system, has gotten a classy teaser video that brings the whole revolution-in-mobile message home.

Technology has enslaved us apparently, and it's time we demand a change, in fact it's time for a revolution and it's not too late. So the video says, anyhow.

Hit the button above now to see the video play out and we'll bring you more on UK availability for the First ELSE as we hear it.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones ELSE First ELSE Video Advertising

VIDEO: First ELSE gets classy teaser originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:34:39 +0000

An interesting mobile phone network has just launched in the UK. Although owned by O2 and run by its execs, GiffGaff claims to be a completely separate "people-powered" operator, offering very cheap calls, texts and web browsing in exchange for customer involvement in the network.

You sign up, or get referred by an existing member, and then get sent a Pay-As-You-Go SIM card which will only work in unlocked handsets. You can then use that SIM card normally by topping up credit, or you can earn credit by doing certain things.

You earn ?5 by introducing a new member. You earn ?2 from a referral when people sign up, or 50p by telling friends about the service. There's other options too. Those points are doled out twice-yearly, in November and May.

Most impressively, there's a whole range of "tools" that consist of imagery and videos you can download. If you can turn one of those into an advert, and GiffGaff reckons it's good enough to use, you can become a "V.I.G." and get free texts, calls and web access for a year.

Speaking of web access, if you top up ?10, then you get unlimited browsing for 6 months. Calls are free to other GiffGaff users, and 8p per minute to other networks. Texts are free to GiffGaff users and 4p to other networks. GiffGaff reckons that makes it the cheapest operator around.

What do you think? Does this add up? Or is it a noble but doomed attempt at a hybrid sharing and commercial business? Have you signed up? Tell us in the comments.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Mobile phone industry GiffGaff Wikipedia Video

VIDEO: GiffGaff phone network goes live originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:46:56 +0000

Here in the UK supermarket behemoth Tesco has announced it is to offer the Apple iPhone in time for Christmas - a real sign of how mass market the handset is to become.

Going back 2 years, at launch the iPhone was only available on one network - O2 - and through O2, Apple or Carphone Warehouse stores, but fast forward to the present and the mobile is set to be available on three operators, and through a growing network of retailers, including now, Britain's biggest supermarket.

Tesco will offer the phone on its O2-powered Tesco Mobile network, according to a statement from the retailing giant: "Tesco Mobile through its joint venture partnership with O2 is pleased to announce that it will shortly introduce iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS in Tesco Phone Shops and online through Tesco Direct in the UK".

Those hoping for Tesco pricing on the handset will almost certainly be disappointed, O2 and Orange - the two operators that offer the mobile now - have kept contract and handset prices high and with very little difference between them.

So will the ever-increasing availability of the iPhone see some of its shine rub off? Will Tesco offering the device lose the iPhone some kudos? Have your say in the comments box below.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Tesco iPhone O2

Tesco to offer the iPhone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:38:49 +0000

A new version of BlackBerry Media Sync has been made available by RIM updating the software to version 3.0.

Media Sync 3.0 allows BlackBerry users to sync their desktop iTunes or Windows Media Player music with via USB "simply and quickly".

In addition to an improved interface, Media Sync 3.0 adds the ability to sync images to and from a device as well as add folders for syncing from a PC to a handset.

As far as pictures go, the software includes an option to optimise pictures for the phone with a "smart memory management" tool that shrinks down files to around 2% of the original size.

BlackBerry Media Sync 3.0 is available for PC and Mac via BlackBerry Desktop Manager for OS 4.6 and over but supports OS 4.2 and over, it's available for free via www.blackberry.com/mediasync.

Tags: Phones BlackBerry RIM Software updates BlackBerry Media Sync iTunes Windows Media Player

BlackBerry Media Sync 3.0 released originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:11:59 +0000

Apple has confirmed that it will be offering Black Friday deals around the world on the 27 November although, as yet, has failed to inform consumers keen to pick up a new iPod or Mac of what those deals actually are.?

Shoppers getting ready for the biggest day in the American shopping calendar are instead told to head online or in store on the 27th.?

Last week rumours started circulating that Apple would slash prices by up to 25%, however experts believe that is highly unlikely.?

The latest rumour, this is Apple don't forget, suggests a more mediocre $50 to $100 off a MacBook in the US with around $30 to $50 off an iPod or iPod touch.

We will keep you posted. ?

In the meantime why not read our?How to: Shop Black Friday?guide that gives you some great tips and tricks to get the best bargains around.?

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Tags: Hardware Phones Audio Software Apple Black Friday

Apple Black Friday deals confirmed... originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:25:25 +0000

Fring, the combined messaging service for mobile phone platforms from the iPhone to Android, has launched a new version of its software that allows users to make video calls from their phone.

Fring users can now make and receive internet video calls from mobile devices (for free), picking up their fring and Skype video calls from the road, and seeing the person they’re talking to from their mobile phone.

Fring video is currently only available on?Nokia?touch devices such as the?Nokia X6, N97mini, N97, 5800, N95, N95 8G and N82, however is promised for the iPhone, and Android handsets. Strange considering the iPhone doesn't sport a forward facing camera, and nor does any of the mainstream Android handsets like the HTC Hero or G1.

Currently the software, which is available for most mobile platforms, only allows you to text chat and talk with other contacts.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Fring Skype Symbian Nokia iPhone

Skype video calling comes to Nokia phones originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:20:05 +0000

The?Nokia X6, the Finnish company's latest flagship model, will be hitting the UK on Friday 27 November according to the chaps at Nokia. The new handset will be a "Comes with Music" offering and be exclusively available through?Phones4U.

Free, as the Brits do best, it will cost you ?35 a month on Orange for the length of the contract. Hoping to lure in current Nokia upgraders you'll be able to get it for ?25 a month if you hand in a Nseries phone.

It is also available today to pre-order from www.shop.nokia.co.uk at ?449 SIM free.
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The X6, first debuted at Nokia World in September, will offer 32GB of on-board memory, a 3.2-inch, 16:9 ratio capacitive touchscreen and a 5-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss lens

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Nokia Comes with music Nokia X6 Phones4U

Nokia X6 hits UK Friday originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:05:33 +0000

Adobe?has made its Photoshop.com Mobile for Android app available outside the?US?allowing HTC Hero, Samsung i7500 and Motorola Cliq users, amongst others, the ability to edit their photos on the go.

The app, which is virtually identical to the?Adobe Photoshop.com Mobile for iPhone?version, has been available in the US for some time on both the Apple iPhone and Android platform will let users around the globe quick access to their photos with easy editing and sharing.

The application features basic editing tools like crop and rotate, colour adjustments and a photo browser that makes it simple to manoeuvre through photos.

In addition, users have the ability to view their entire online collection of photos from Photoshop.com and share those images from their phone via email.

No word from Adobe on whether the iPhone version will be making it to the UK, however it is expected to be, presumably once the application passes the usual Apple app process.?

Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Android Adobe Photoshop Mobile for Android Photoshop Mobile for iPhone

Photoshop.com Mobile for Android hits UK... originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:50:09 +0000

"There are problems in the market. The First ELSE solves them", says Amir Kupervas, ELSE CEO, boldly, launching a handset that promises to change the way we think about our phones.

Today saw the launch to press and business partners of the First ELSE handset, a mobile device that promises to be centred around the user experience, rather than the phone.

Taking a swipe at Apple, Kupervas gave the example of grabbing your iPhone to capture a video of your kid: "the phone rings and you lose your Kodak moment", he says candidly. The First ELSE aims to have the phone as an application of the device, rather than being the centre of that device.

We were on hand to grab some shots of the new handset, which is going to be hitting markets in Q2 2010. ELSE Mobile were closely guarding the new models, but we managed to get up close and personal.

No word on operators yet, but we did spy representatives from Orange at the event, and Kupervas confirmed to us that the target markets were USA, Western Europe and Russia.

News:?State-of-the-art "First ELSE" Linux-based touchphone unveiled

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Related links:

• Link - ELSE website

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Emblaze ELSE First ELSE Photos

PHOTOS: First ELSE hands-on originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:38:51 +0000

It seems Sony Ericsson's new high-end Satio handset is suffering from "issues" as the UK's biggest mobile phone retailer, Carphone Warehouse, as well as Phones 4U, have withdrawn the device from sale.

As the Satio is "temporarily" withdrawn from Carphone shop shelves, the chain is also offering to replace handsets for any customer who has experienced problems.

"From time to time we experience issues with new handsets, and their software, which may result in a customer experience that is below our usually high standards. We want customers to have complete confidence and satisfaction in the handsets they buy from us, which is why we have temporarily withdrawn the Sony Ericsson Satio from sale", The Carphone Warehouse says in a statement.

"We are working closely with Sony Ericsson to restock the Satio phone as soon as possible and will offer any customer who returns a faulty Satio an exchange of phone".

Problems reported with the Satio include freezing, crashing, battery problems and issues with the phone's interface.

"Sony Ericsson confirms that it has been made aware that a small number of consumers have experienced software issues with its Satio handset when using certain applications", Sony Ericsson says in a statement. ?

"Carphone Warehouse and Phones 4U have temporarily removed the handset from sale to ensure that future customers do not have an adverse experience. Sony Ericsson is giving this matter its utmost priority and is working toward solving it as soon as possible".

A Vodafone spokesperson told Pocket-lint that the Satio it offers is a Vodafone variant that's been through testing. The operator says it's continuing to keep a track of the situation, but it is still offering the Vodafone Sony Ericsson Satio for sale.

We've yet to hear if other operators that offer the handset will also be stopping sales or offering exchanges, but we'll update this post as we do.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Sony Ericsson Carphone Warehouse Sony Ericsson Satio Product recalls Phones4U Vodafone 3

Sony Ericsson Satio withdrawn from sale originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:30:48 +0000

Shazam has announced it's going (PRODUCT)RED with a special charity edition app now available for the iPhone on the App Store.

Offering the same music discovery features as the premium Shazam Encore app, there's also new content related to (PRODUCT)RED.

For each app purchased, Shazam will give 20% of the price to the global fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria in Africa.

The (SHAZAM)RED Special Edition App, to give it its official title, can be identified by its red-coloured product icon and is available for ?2.99, 3.99 euros or $4.99.

Tags: Phones iPhone apps Shazam Audio Product Red App Store

Shazam goes PRODUCT RED originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:18:15 +0000

The "First ELSE", described as a new "state-of-the-art mobile device" from Israeli design house Emblaze Mobile has finally been unveiled at a London launch event which Pocket-lint attended.

The First ELSE focuses on a "unique user experience" with the claim being that a user can interact with the device's features - such as phone, GPS or camera - "in the same way they interact with the equivalent stand-alone devices used on a daily basis outside of the mobile experience".

Powered by the Linux-based "ELSE Intuition", a new mobile platform jointly developed by software co Access, the First ELSE can run multiple applications simultaneously with its TI OMAP 3430 mobile processor.

Specs for the new UMTS/HSDPA handset include a 3.5-inch, 854 x 480 resolution capacitive touchscreen display with tactile feedback, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, a 5-megapixel camera, GPS and A-GPS as well as proximity, ambient light and tilt sensors.

The device is expected to go on sale to consumers in 2010 - we will keep you posted.

Related links:

• PHOTOS - First ELSE hands on

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Emblaze ELSE ACCESS Linux First ELSE

State-of-the-art "First ELSE" Linux-based touchphone unveiled originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:48:21 +0000

So far Apple has stayed out of the advertising spat between iPhone operator AT&T and rival network Verizon, but Apple's latest ads for its mobile makes a feature of the network in runs on - which can't be a coincidence considering the bashing Verizon has doled out of late, even sending the iPhone to the island of misfit toys.

While AT&T hit back with Luke Wilson, Apple has stepped in with two new iPhone ads that follow the format of previous versions, but ask "can your phone and your network do that?" after voice-over man demos the ability of the iPhone to handle data while on a voice call, the first time AT&T's service has been highlighted in Apple's campaign.

Hit play on the video above to see one of the new ads - which just aired on prime-time American television - and we'll keep you posted with more as we hear it.

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Tags: Phones iPhone Apple Verizon AT and T Advertising Video

VIDEO: New iPhone ads highlight AT&T's network after Verizon attacks originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:53:22 +0000

Nokia has announced two new 3G slider phones, the Nokia 6700 slide and Nokia 7230, said to be "made for the design-conscious consumer and optimised for socialising and sharing with those closest to you".
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Available in a range of colours the Nokia 6700 slide and Nokia 7230 are clearly aimed at the mid-market.
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Possibly the most colourful Nokia release yet, the Symbian S60 6700 slide will go on sale in a choice of six vivid colours - pink, red, blue, aluminium, lime and purple.

With a compact, modern design and an aluminium finish, the handset boasts a 5-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, the ability to edit and upload pics on the go.

Other specs include a 2.2-inch display, FM radio and music player, and support for up to 16GB microSD memory cards.
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The Nokia 7230 gets a 3.2-megapixel camera, 2.4-inch display and what's said to be quick access to email, instant messaging and social networks on the go. It will be available in graphite and pink.

Both devices are due in first quarter of 2010, with pricing set at 160 euros for the Nokia 6700 slide, and 100 euros for the Nokia 7230, almost certainly meaning they will be free on contracts when they get picked up by operators.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Nokia Nokia 6700 slide Nokia 7230

Nokia announces 6700 slide and Nokia 7230 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:18:32 +0000

Google has announced that all handsets running Android 1.6 will now be able to get?Google Maps Navigation?for free.

The news, which was announced on Monday, opens up the free GPS software beyond the Android 2.0 operating system and currently the only handset available, the?Droid by Motorola.

The new release, which aims to take on services from TomTom, Garmin and Navigon will, as long as you have a data connection, let you route your way around the US using the same Google Maps functionality, however, with a more traditional style GPS experience.

The release also includes the new Layers feature, which lets you overlay geographical information on the map. View My Maps, transit lines, Wikipedia articles about places, and more says Google.

If you have a phone running Android 1.6, you can download an updated version of Google Maps from Android Market to use Navigation today.

Android 1.6 phones in the US currently include the T-Mobile mytouch 3G,?the G1 and the HTC Tattoo, as well as the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10. However handsets like the HTC Hero, Droid Eris, Samsung Moment and the Samsung Behold II all run Android 1.5 so won't be getting the new feature.

Google Maps Navigation is in beta and is currently available in the United States.

Some features of Android 2.0 are not available on Android 1.6, for example, the ability to use the "navigate to" voice command as shown in our demo video.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Android Google Google Maps Navigation GPS Samsung HTC T-Mobile mytouch 3G T-Mobile G1 with Google mobile phone Car And GPS Sony Ericsson Motorola

Google Maps Navigation comes to Android 1.6 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:58:52 +0000

A mobile phone gaming company has delivered a blow to the Android platform - in PR terms at the very least - by unfavourably comparing it to Apple's rival offering and revealing it is to cut funding for its Android products.

A senior executive from the French company Gameloft is quoted by Reuters whilst at an investor conference as revealing Gameloft sells 400 times more games on iPhone than it does on Android.

"We have significantly cut our investment in Android platform, just like ... many others", Gameloft finance director Alexandre de Rochefort said, suggesting other games companies were seeing similar results.

"It is not as neatly done as on the iPhone. Google has not been very good to entice customers to actually buy products. On Android nobody is making significant revenue".

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone games Android Gameloft Biz iPhone apps Android Marketplace Google Gaming

Gameloft: iPhone game sales 400 times that of Android originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:43:09 +0000

Truphone has announced a Thanksgiving gift for all its users, with a 12-hour window for free calls to the States on 26 November.

All calls made via Truphone to both mobile and landline phones in the United States will be free "so that friends and family can call each other to catch up this holiday season", says the VoIP co.

From noon to midnight UTC, or 7am to 7pm EST, or more importantly for us Brits 12 noon to 12 midnight on Thursday, the calls are utterly gratis.

The offer is open to existing and new customers anywhere in the world using the Truphone application.

Truphone has applications for the Apple iPhone, Apple iPod touch, BlackBerry, Nokia and Android devices available to download from www.truphone.com and the respective application stores for each device.

Tags: Phones VoIP Truphone

Truphone calls to America to be free on Thanksgiving originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:07:35 +0000

While what was said to be the first iPhone worm merely annoyed jail-broken iPhoners by installing Rick Astley wallpaper, a second is said to be "clearly malicious".

Security company F-Secure has discovered the worm that's specifically targeting those in the Netherlands using online bank ING, reports the BBC.

The malware - that again just affects SSH-enabled, jail-broken modified iPhones - redirects ING customers to a lookalike site with a log-in screen.

As well as the immediate financial implications, the worm could see such handsets accessed and controlled remotely.

"It's the second iPhone worm ever and the first that's clearly malicious - there's a clear financial motive behind it", F-Secure research director Mikko Hypponen told the BBC.

"It's fairly isolated and specific to Netherlands but it is capable of spreading".

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Tags: Phones iPhone Viruses And Malware ING F-Secure

Second iPhone worm targets ING customers, "clearly malicious" originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:13:45 +0000

Logitech-owned Ultimate Ears has announced the launch of a new, free to download iPhone app that offers an interesting feature - a sound pressure level meter that will tell you the decibel level of anything you care to point your phone at.

Aside from that, other features range from the naff - "see the custom-made in-ear monitors of the artists who are wearing Ultimate Ears" - to the dull - "see a full list of our products".

There's also info on how to get the most out of your UE earphones and the ability to watch artists interviews, backstage footage, and photos from live shows.

Ultimate Ears warns that the sound pressure level meter is for recreational use only and accuracy of SPL readings will vary depending on iPhone model used, but for free it's got to be worth a download to see just how loud the No 7 bus/your mate's band/your dog's bark really is.

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Tags: Phones iPhone apps Ultimate Ears Logitech Audio

Ultimate Ears iPhone app offers decibel meter originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:37:25 +0000

The Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards are back, letting you know what the best products of 2009 really are.

Now in its sixth year, the Pocket-lint Awards, thought to be the longest running in the UK, pick the best gadgets and gizmos from the last year from around the world.

Pocket-lint's vigorous vetting process means that all the gadgets up for nomination have to have been seen by a member of the Pocket-lint team (so far over 600) and have to have been available in the UK between December 2008 and December 2009.

The awards, voted by a panel of leading gadget journalists from around the world, including the staff from the Pocket-lint team, will decide the real must-have gadgets of the year, rather than those simply deemed cool or anticipated, being the definitive guide for consumers looking to buy gadgets.

Nominations for the award categories are being taken now and the final list of nominations (five per category)?will be announced on Monday 16 November with the winners being announced at the awards party on 7 December 2009.?

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TICKET DETAILS

You are welcome to buy as many tickets as you like, and can bring journalists and others from your company.

We will be providing drink and nibbles on the night.

Tickets will be on a first come first served basis.

So just to recap:

What:?The 6th Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards?
Where:?The Light Bar, E1?
When:?7pm Monday 7th December?
Dress:?Smart casual (not black tie)?
Price:??25 a ticket
Drinks/nibbles:?Included?

Any queries etc give me a shout on email or phone.

Stuart

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Tags: Audio Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 Pocket-lint Awards

Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards date confirmed and tickets on sale originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:13:14 +0000

Those clued up on the 2009 tech scene will grasp this concept straight away as it's just so very "now".

Using augmented reality, the new WorkSnug iPhone app, created in conjunction with Plantronics, lets iPhone owners see at a glance suitable perching locations in their vicinity for a quick log-on and a coffee or somewhere to work the day away.

Rating the locations - which could vary from coffee shop chains to greasy spoons to official pay-for-a-desk type work locations - on power provision, atmosphere and noise levels, it should give an idea of what a place is all about and users can add their own reviews too.

Currently launching for the London metro area, WorkSnug will soon also be available for the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, Berlin and Madrid with a website planned to launch in the future.

The WorkSnug iPhone app is available now absolutely gratis from the iTunes App Store.

Tags: Phones iPhone apps WorkSnug Wi-Fi hotspots Biz Software Augmented Reality Plantronics Video

VIDEO: WorkSnug workplace-finding iPhone app launches originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:52:57 +0000

If you're in the market for a PAYG phone then you could do a lot worse than heading over to Orange, who are offering some free gifts along with your phone purchase.

The free gifts include the main event - a pair of Skull Candy headphones - along with 5 minutes worth of free international calls - perhaps good for that quick call to an overseas aunt and 30 free photo messages. You'll also get some free downloads for games, ringtones, etc... and some bits that you probably won't want, such as a yo-yo and card wallet.

The offer includes handsets ranging from ?30 and up so examples of phones available come in the form of the Alcatel OT-708, the middle of the range LG Cookie, through to the Nokia 5800, which will set you back ?205.

This link will take you through to the Orange website where you can take a look at all the phones on offer. After you've picked your phone you'll have to choose the animal-related PAYG plan that you want and how you want it delivered, which thankfully includes a free option.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Orange Skull candy Daily Tech Deal

Daily Tech Deal: Free Skull Candy headphones with Orange PAYG mobiles originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0000

While Vodafone got the exclusive on the new HTC HD2 for a few short weeks, the high-end Windows phone is now available in the UK through O2.

O2 has offered various HTC-made phones before, but the HD2 marks the first time the operator has allowed an actual HTC-branded device live on its network.

The new HD2 Windows Mobile 6.5 smartphone offers a 4.3-inch multi-touch display, a speedy Snapdragon processor, a 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and HSDPA.

"The HTC HD2 is the first HTC branded phone to be sold on O2. We love the large screen and combination of Windows Mobile 6.5 with HTC Sense", says Steve Alder, general manager devices for O2 in the UK.

"We are proud to be the home of smartphones and the HTC HD2 adds a new dimension to the range of devices we offer to our customers".

Full tariff details are to be confirmed while the website is being updated, but O2 tells us the HD2 will be avialable for free on a ?45 per month, 18-month contract - which is a fiver dearer than Voda.

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Related links:

• Feature - HTC HD2 funky features fun

Tags: Phones Mobile phones O2 HTC HTC HD2 Tariffs Windows Phone

O2 offers HTC HD2 free on £45 per month tariffs originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:50:40 +0000

American computer manufacturer Dell has announced the launch of its new Android-based smartphone, the Dell Mini 3i, on China Mobile.

The global debut of the phone in China sees the new handset available in "red passion" or the slightly dubious sounding "oiled bronze".

More specs for the device have now been revealed and we can report the quadband GSM/EDGE 3i offers a 3.5-inch, 640 x 360 widescreen display, built-in GPS, a 3-megapixel camera with video capture, flash and auto-focus, Bluetooth and a microSD card slot supporting cards up to 32GB.

In China, the Mini 3i will support China Mobile's "Mobile Market" app store, while Dell says the phone's features may well change as it launches across other operators around the world - "feature sets may vary depending on the needs of mobile operators".

Brazil's Claro network is due to offer the handset by the end of the year, but considering this warning Brazilians should hang on for confirmation of specs.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Dell Android China Mobile Dell Mini 3i

Dell Mini 3i smartphone launches on China Mobile originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:48:44 +0000

Palm has revealed that the latest update for its Palm Pre smartphone is heading across the pond to Europe.

Those with a Pre on Telefonica (so, O2) networks in the UK, Ireland, Germany, and Spain can expect an automatic update to webOS 1.3.1 "soon", the company says in a blog post.

The update will be delivered over-the-air to handsets whenever they are in range of Wi-Fi or 3G coverage within the next few days, so no need for Pre owners to lift a finger.

Highlights of the update include support for LinkedIn contacts and Yahoo calendar and contact information, the ability to forward messages in the Messaging app and a new Facebook for Palm app. It's interesting to note that unlike previous updates, there is no iTunes sync re-jig.

There's more info, including the full list of tweaks, bug fixes, improvements, enhancements and whatnot over on the Palm site.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Palm Pre Palm Pre WebOS Software updates O2

Palm Pre 1.3.1 update heading to the UK originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:03:01 +0000

While BlackBerry maker RIM has launched a variety of its consumer-aimed 8000 series Pearls, a next-gen version has yet to emerge - until now.

There images, leaked by CrackBerry, show the new handset in all its angular glory, and from the finished state of the phone, suggest an imminent launch.

The 3G BlackBerry Pearl 9100 follows previous models by offering a smaller BlackBerry form factor with a SureType keypad.

Specs are yet to be revealed, but we'll keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones BlackBerry BlackBerry Pearl 9100 RIM Rumours

BlackBerry Pearl 9100 revealed originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:39:05 +0000

Spotify has expanded its mobile reach with a launch onto the Symbian platform - a potentially huge new audience spanning around half of the global smartphone market.

As well as a large range of Nokia handsets, the app will also run on a selection of Sony Ericsson and Samsung smartphones running the Symbian platform, such as the Samsung GT-I8910 Omnia HD and Sony Ericsson Satio.

To get Spotify's Symbian application, users can either download it directly to their phones by visiting m.spotify.com through their mobile web browser, or by entering their phone number on the new Symbian information page to receive instructions via an SMS.

As with the other iPhone and Android Spotify offerings, the Symbian app is only available to those who are Premium, i.e., paid-up members of the service.

Tags: Phones Audio Nokia Spotify Symbian

Spotify announces Symbian app originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:56:10 +0000

The?Sony Ericsson Xperia X10?is expected to be hitting AT&T?in the US when it eventually launches in February, if the spec sheet is to be believed.

According to Android news site, Phandroid, the specs for the Sony Ericsson first Android powered handset suggest that it will be going to the US mobile phone operator who also has the iPhone based on the radio bands the handset will offer.

According to the tech specs, the phone will come with GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 and UMTS/HSPA 800/850/900/1700/1900/2100, however will not offer UMTS HSPA 900/1700 for phones sold in the Americas.

While to most that will mean very little, it means AT&T will be the only carrier in the US who is able to support the handset.

There is currently no official word from either AT&T or Sony Ericsson.

We will keep you posted, but in the meantime check out our?First Look review.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Sony Ericsson Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Android AT and T

Sony Ericsson X10 destined for AT&T originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:24:43 +0000

Casio has released its second rugged handset in the US on Verizon hoping to appeal to the more adventurous phone user.

The Casio G'zOne Rock is a clamshell handset that looks like it could take a beating. On the inside there is a 2.1-inch colour screen, standard keypad (not QWERTY), Bluetooth, while the outside offers a 2-megapixel camera with LED flash.?

The phone hits the MIL-STD 810F standard meaning you can drop it down the toilet, throw it on the floor and generally go most places on the planet (read building site) without fear of it breaking.

Those who do adventure out into the wilds can be safe in the knowledge that the handset also offers a digital compass, walking counter, thermometer, daily tidal graphs, sunrise and sunset times and a moon calendar.

It's out on Verizon very soon.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Casio Verizon Casio GzOne Rock

Casio G'zOne Rock phone plays it tough originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:40:58 +0000

Seesmic, the Twitter client for the Mac, and recently PC, has announced that it is going mobile with BlackBerry and Android apps.

Leaving out the iPhone, BlackBerry and Android users will be able to get their Twitter feeds on their phone from Friday.

"Seesmic for BlackBerry groups all your Twitter timelines into a simple and clean interface", says Seesmic, with features for both apps including the ability to create and view saved searches, view Twitter lists that you've created on twitter.com, shorten urls and send photos, and configure notification alerts for Direct Messages and @Replies.

The news follows an earlier announcement this week that the company was launching a Windows 7 version.

The preview version, which is free, of Seesmic for Windows supposedly "combines the best features from our ever-popular social application and provides it to you in a native Windows environment".

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Android BlackBerry Seesmic Desktop

Seesmic BlackBerry and Android apps released originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:10:00 +0000

Windows Live Messenger is now available via the Nokia Messaging Chat application straight from compatible phone's homescreens.

This first instalment of Windows Live Messenger for Nokia Messaging includes tabbed chat windows, the ability to call directly from the buddy list, and notifications of new messages that pop up while the application is in the background.

Features include an appear offline login option while grouped contacts, emoticons and sounds are also available. ?

The Nokia E72 is the first device that comes with support for Windows Live Messenger, but the Nokia E63, Nokia E71 and Nokia E75 are also good to go after a download of "Nokia Messaging for IM" from the Ovi Store.

Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Nokia Instant messaging Windows Live Messenger Ovi Store

Windows Live Messenger hits Nokia Messaging originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:32:43 +0000

At a recent shareholders meeting Microsoft boss Steve Ballmer told attendees that "Windows 7 is simply the best PC operating system that we or anyone else has ever built".

As part of his opening speech Ballmer stated that the new OS was off to a "fantastic start" revealing that Microsoft has "already sold twice as many units as any OS in a comparable time frame".

At the event, on the defence after a shareholder commented on the popularity of Mac among younger users, Ballmer noted that "96 times out of 100, worldwide, people choose a PC with Windows" before calling Macs "quite a bit more expensive", a theme of a recent Microsoft ad campaign.

Finally, responding to a question about the iPhone's challenge to the Windows Phone market, Ballmer said: "Certainly our objective is to have the leading position. I think we have a lot of opportunity to improve... Undoubtedly we've got our work cut out for us".

"We've got our heads down to do our best", Ballmer said of the smartphone market, revealing the company has a "a lot of smart people" working on the topic.

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Tags: Software Microsoft Windows 7 Steve Ballmer Phones

Ballmer says Windows 7 is "simply the best" originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:12:30 +0000

A new Motorola handset has emerged from the mists of the Internet as an as-yet-unconfirmed coming-soon Android device.

The Motorola "Motus", said to be due an official announcement in early 2010, has been spotted in this oh-so-blurry spy shot sent into an Android fan site.

Looking a little like the new DEXT, or CLIQ depending on which side of the pond you're on, the Motus is said to offer a 3.1-inch HVGA screen, a 5-megapixel camera with flash, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS and run Android 1.5 with the Motoblur interface.

Design-wise the handset gets a reverse flip keyboard and a rear directional touchpad adding serious weight to CellPassion's speculation it could launch as the "Backflip" a name recently registered in the EU by Motorola.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Motorola Android Motorola Motus Motorola Backflip Rumours

Motorola Motus emerges originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:05:01 +0000

They've kept this one quiet, but it seems Vodafone is offering free international texts all day today, so if you're a Vodafone customer and there's anyone overseas that you'd like to surprise with an SMS out of the blue, today is the day.

Vodafone customers can send free international texts from the UK to any international mobile phone number all day long today - Friday 20 November - apparently in honour of "World Hello Day".

There's no need to sign up - all customers will automatically get this offer with all texts sent from the UK to international mobile numbers today automatically free and not taking from a customers' bundle, if applicable. There's more info over at vodafone.co.uk/freefridays.

Tags: Phones Vodafone SMS

Vodafone offering free international texts all day today originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:31:59 +0000

If you think the proliferation of app stores among device manufacturers, mobile networks and just about any other company in the world was getting a little silly, you'll likely be alarmed to hear that Qualcomm is launching an initiative that could see any company set one up with the greatest of ease.

The white label service is called "Plaza" and represents an easily customisable app store (or "Mobile widgets" as Qualcomm is putting it) that can be as niche or mainstream as you like. "Any content, any network, any device" is apparently the company's motto for the project.

Qualcomm's EVP president of QIS & Europe told Pocket-lint that he thinks specialist boutique app stores that focus on one topic - sports and fitness, or music, for example - could prove as successful as device-centred app stores that have dominated the marketplace so far.

Qualcomm has an extensive website that details the options that it offers. What do you think - is the proliferation of app stores a good thing that'll create competition and drive down prices? Or will it just confuse consumers? Let us know in the comments.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Qualcomm Plaza Biz

Qualcomm plans "Plaza" of white-label app stores originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:09:10 +0000

Google has announced the launch of a "completely new" mobile Google News offering for iPhone, Android, and Palm Pre users.

This follows the availability of a mobile-optimised version of Google News for other phones, such as Blackberry, Windows Mobile, and S60, with the online giant promising "more improvements" for those versions in the near future.

The new iPhone/Android/Pre version claims to offer "the same richness and personalisation on your phone as Google News provides on desktop".

The new homepage displays more stories, sources, and images while there's access to see favourite sections, find articles and play videos "in fewer clicks".

Google News for mobile is now available in 29 languages and 70 editions and can be found at http://news.google.com on your mobile phone's browser.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Google Google News iPhone Android Palm Pre Pre

Google News gets updated for iPhone, Android and Pre originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:13:53 +0000

Want to know what's been hot in the world of technology and gadgets today? Of course you do. The news roundup always aims to bring you a nice mix of the stories from the last 24 hours and today is no exception as we have a myriad of news as well as a cheeky review creeping in there.

First up is the story that Sony Ericsson's Nexus Android skin - designed to give a? more graphical user interface - might be available on devices other than the Xperia X10. Keeping with the Xperia X10 theme, if you're keen to find out some initial thoughts on the new handset you'll want to check out our First-Look review.

There's also news that the Apple tablet has been delayed due to the introduction of an OLED screen, the Nokia N900 goes on sale in the US minus a carrier for $649 and the Sony Reader Daily Edition is now available for pre-order.? Here are the top stories from the last 24 hours:

• NEWS:Sony Ericsson's Nexus Android skin promised for more devices
• NEWS:Apple tablet delayed by late decision to add OLED display
• NEWS:Nokia N900 goes on sale in US
• NEWS:PS3 Remote Play for Android "makes sense"
• NEWS:MS Office 2010 beta now available
• REVIEW:Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 mobile phone - First Look
• NEWS:TomTom for iPhone updated
• NEWS:Sony Reader Daily Edition available for pre-order
• NEWS:Want a big TV? Don't move to California
• NEWS:WEBSITE OF THE DAY - Fingertips

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Tags: Audio Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness

Daily news roundup: Xperia X10, Apple tablet, Nokia N900 and more originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:29:22 +0000

MediaFLO television, which launched in the United States, could be coming to the UK in time for the 2012 Olympic Games. The company's head of business development EMEA, Chem Assayag, dropped several hints to Pocket-lint, saying that 2012 is an "important year", adding that large sporting events are always good timing for broadcast products to launch due to the increased demand for viewing platforms.

The MediaFLO service, which uses a more traditional broadcast system than IPTV services, can be accessed on 10 different mobile phone handsets in the United States, available through Verizon and AT&T. It's also accessible on a recently-released 4GB standalone device, and the company showed us prototypes of dongles and wireless accessories that could connect up to any handset, including an iPhone (pictured above), not just one with Qualcomm's MediaFLO chip in.

In Britain, the company has bought up a suitable chunk of L-band spectrum that would support a mobile broadcast network. Back in May, the company announced it had won an auction for 40MHz of bandwidth to use to "bring a variety of innovative wireless technologies to the UK market".

UK content partners could include Sky, the BBC, Channel 4 and ITV, and it's likely that phone networks like O2, Orange, Vodafone, T-Mobile and 3 would also be involved - to provide the handsets to customers. As well as television, MediaFLO can also integrate other apps - we saw proof-of-concept of Twitter and Facebook integration that would allow you to chat with other people watching the same broadcast.

The technology can support up to 30 channels running at 25 to 30fps at QVGA resolution. That's tiny compared to a TV, and even a little on the small side for a laptop, but would suit the small screens of mobile devices very well. MediaFLO is working with LG, Samsung, Motorola and HTC right now, but chips could easily be integrated into any handset, so keep your eyes peeled in the next year or so.

As soon as there's anything more concrete about the launch of MediaFLO in the UK, we'll let you know.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone TV Qualcomm MediaFLO FLO TV

Mobile TV could be in UK in time for Olympics originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:56:34 +0000

Vodafone has expanded its Twitter options in the UK by offering a new service that allows Twitter users to retweet messages via SMS.

Vodafone customers can already send and receive SMS Twitter updates and now they can use the same number to retweet the most recent interesting posts from the people they are following.

Now available to Vodafone customers in the UK, to use the service, customers should send "RT twitter username" to 86444.

As an example, to retweet the most recent message from @VodafoneUK, you would type "RT VodafoneUK" which keeps it simple as it only works with the latest tweet from the Twitter account.

Sent texts will be charged at the standard network rate, or taken from the customer's SMS bundle where appropriate, says Vodafone.

After sending their message, customers will receive a free SMS notification confirming the message that they have just retweeted to their followers.

Vodafone customers will continue to receive SMS updates from Twitter free of charge.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Vodafone Twitter Software Online SMS

Vodafone offers paid-for SMS retweet option originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:48:55 +0000

Need to make a loud noise in a public toilet? Yes, you guessed it, there's an app for that too with the launch of "Cover Up".

The app creates more socially acceptable noises than the ones you're likely to make during a trip to the loo, such as running water or a hand drier, saving your embarrassment as you exit the cubicle.

We're guessing from its make-up compact looks, and the promo vid above it's aimed at the gentler sex, who can download it now from the App Store for 99 cents.

Read

Tags: Phones iPhone apps App Store Cover Up Audio Video

VIDEO: Cover Up iPhone app masks toilet noises originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:49:20 +0000

In news that its customers will be happy to hear, O2 has revealed plans for a big upgrade to its UK network, with ?500 million investment over the last 2 years.

The operator - which currently offers data-happy phones such as the Apple iPhone and the Palm Pre - is looking to improve its data handling capabilities.

As part of the plans, London will see around 40 new mobile data hotspots in the city by the end of the year, with another 160 following on in the next year.

Meanwhile the rest of the country will see another 1500 new locations to boost service across the UK.

Derek McManus, chief technology officer at O2 UK, said that the company predicts a surge in data usage over the next year and is working to improve its network capacity for the future.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone industry O2

O2 promises network improvements originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:39:08 +0000

If you're the type of person that thinks the presence of a few cats would spice up any photo, then there's an app for that.

CatPaint, just launched for the iPhone and iPod touch, adds a touch of puss to any pic with the option to drag and drop feline imagery into any photograph.

That's pretty much the extent of the app, but for $1, we're sure feline fanciers can't go wrong.

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Tags: Phones iPhone apps CatPaint

CatPaint iPhone app adds cats originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:55:23 +0000

American mobile phone operator AT&T has hit back at rival Verizon using the secret weapon of Luke Wilson.

The new ad, which supposedly compares the two operators' 3G offerings side by side, is a direct response to Verizon's current map-themed campaign which makes it appear as if AT&T has very little coverage across the United States.

AT&T was refused its initial legal request for an injunction to stop Verizon showing the adverts which AT&T deemed "misleading", so for now it seems a tit for tat battle will ensue until AT&T gets a second chance in court on 16 December.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone industry Advertising AT and T Verizon Video

VIDEO: AT&T fires back at Verizon in ad war originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:07:05 +0000

If you want to add a little regality to your iPhone then look no further than Ultra Case's Luxury Edition Royal Crown iPhone case.

"With heart shaped artificial crystal surrounded by Swarovski Crystals, it is the ultimate in chic and elegance", says the purveyors.

We thought it was the ultimate in something else, but if you agree with Ultra Case's assessment you should know it's on sale now for ?119.99.

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Tags: Phones Cases iPhone accessories Ultra Case

Luxury Edition Royal Crown iPhone case revealed originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:54:01 +0000

The?TomTom for iPhone app has received an update on Wednesday bringing with it a number of promised features and a couple of new ones too.

New to the mix is compatibility for the original iPhone and iPod touch (all models), meaning that owners of the iPod touch, with the help of the TomTom Car Kit can get in on the?TomTom for iPhone GPS?action too.

Aside from that, features are as expected so that means advanced lane guidance for difficult junctions in both landscape and portrait mode, and text-to-speech functionality that will see street names and places read aloud as part of the spoken instructions.

In addition, TomTom's "Help Me" emergency feature from its in-car satnavs will be ported to the mobile platform, there'll be options to customise audio warnings, while maps and safety camera databases will see an update.

Finally the app will catch up with other offerings like CoPilot on the market by adding iPod player control "ensuring drivers can conveniently control their music from within the application".

The update is free to all those who have already downloaded the application.?

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps TomTom iPhone apps iPhone GPS Car And GPS TomTom for iPhone

TomTom for iPhone updated originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:21:38 +0000

The?Nokia N900?has gone on sale in the US on Wednesday for a $649 unsubsidised after the mobile phone manufacturer failed to find a carrier to offer the handset.?

Not deterred by the lack of interest from the likes of Verizon or AT&T, Nokia has opted to go it alone:

"Consumers from every segment of the population are looking for more out of their mobile device - more power, more ability, more connectivity", said Alessandro Lamanna, vice president, Retail Sales, Nokia - hoping people would quickly jump at the opportunity to buy the new handset.

The Nokia N900, which is the first from the Finnish company to sport the new?Maemo?operating system, is available in a black finish and will retail for ?649 through Nokia flagship stores in New York and Chicago, nokiausa.com and various independent retailers and e-tailers including Amazon.com.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Nokia Nokia N900

Nokia N900 goes on sale in US originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 03:06:57 +0000

Sony Ericsson has hinted that it could launch a "PS3" app similar to that found on the Sony Ericsson Aino handset launched earlier in the year for the Android OS, when the company's new?Xperia X10?handset launches in February.

"It makes a lot of sense for it to be on other handsets", said Christopher David, head of developer and partner engagement at Sony Ericsson, before backing up that statement with an "it should be expected".

It is not certain at this time whether an app, if developed, would be restricted to the X10 and Nexus UX platform or be available to all?Android?handsets, but could mean that phone users opting for devices sporting the Google Android OS could access their PlayStation 3 and stream content to their phone from around the world, in a similar way to the Sony Ericsson phone or the PSP console.

The phone, which packs the same DLNA and wireless connectivity as the Aino, before building on the specs with a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset and 4-inch screen, would be a perfect hardware device for such an app, something that David acknowledges.

"For it to work you would need wireless and DLNA connectivity," said David, after we tried to lure more than an "it's possible" answer from the man, when asked to engage in the new Sony Ericsson Nexus UX platform for the X10.

As for other apps to expect in the future? David was keeping quiet, however we did get a chuckle and acknowledgement of a "good question asked" as to whether Sony Ericsson's Play Now store, that allows users to download movies and music, would get an Android app of its own.

"You never know", was the official response with a wry smile.?

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Tags: Gaming Phones Mobile phones Mobile phone apps Sony Android PS3 Sony Ericsson Xperia X10

PS3 Remote Play for Android "makes sense" originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:23:13 +0000

Sony Ericsson?has implied that it may bring its new?Android?skin destined for the?Sony Ericsson Xperia X10, the Nexus UX platform, to other devices.

"Nexus has been developed with a broader focus in mind", said Steve Walker, head of portfolio planning and communications for Sony Ericsson, following a question in an informal journalist briefing on whether we would see the new UI on other devices.

Although not going into specific details about specific products, Walker hinted in a further conversation with Pocket-lint that the new Nexus interface had been developed for devices of "all shapes and sizes".

The news comes as Sony Ericsson announces further details for its latest handset, the Xperia X10, which is due out in February 2010.

Working in what appears to be a similar way to HTC's Sense UI, Sony Ericsson will create a new "skin" for Android and Symbian OSes called the Nexus UX platform that offers a more graphical interface for users to get involved in.

Creating a dedicated WebSDK to accompany the new "skin", Sony Ericsson is hoping that by allowing developers to create apps specifically for Sony Ericsson handsets, it will help it gain the edge over other Android based handsets from Motorola or HTC.

"It is more than a UI skin", Christopher David, the man in charge of pushing the SDK to developers told us in a one to one interview. "The WebSDK, announced today allows developers to develop applications specifically for our phones and be sold in the PlayNow store".

Sony Ericsson will start the ball rolling with two applications, Timescape and Mediascape with the promise of many more over time.

Timescape will promise to manage all your communication with one person in one place, allowing you to browse through your conversations on Facebook, Twitter, photos, emails, and texts all in one go. Mediascape will focus on the multimedia elements to the handset, allowing you to search your phone for music, photos and videos as well as access interactive services like YouTube or PlayNow.

"We expect to have around a couple of hundred apps and plug-ins for Nexus at launch", David confirmed.

Other features of the new OS overlay include a feature that links faces with contact details at the touch of a button from within the phone on the fly.?

Sony Ericsson says that users will be able to download dedicated Sony Ericsson Android apps created using its WebSDK via its Play Now store rather than in Android Marketplace, however users will be able to access standard Android Marketplace as you would normally.?

The Xperia X10 is the first of many handsets that will use the platform, says Sony Ericsson, with the new handset acting as the flagship model when it hits stores in February.?

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Mobile phone apps Sony Ericsson Android Sony Ericsson Xperia X10

Sony Ericsson's Nexus Android skin promised for more devices originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:52:03 +0000

While we doubt Apple's voiceover guy will be highlighting this offering in any forthcoming advert ("you want your iPhone to blow? There's an app for that) the Blower - Real Air app appears to do just that.

By abusing the phone's speaker by producing low frequencies it appears that the app can create a tiny stream of air from the speaker - enough at least to blow out birthday candles - which is a pretty impressive trick, although not quite magic.

It's no Airblade, granted, but does go some way to show what a clever mind can come up with - even if the ultimate result falls somewhat flat in the land of pointless.

Read

Related links:

• Shop - iTunes

Tags: Phones iPhone apps Video

VIDEO: New iPhone app blows... originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:07:09 +0000

Pocket-lint has teamed up with video news site TechVi to bring you a weekly show analysing the biggest stories of the week.

Hosted by Randall Bennett and featuring members of the Pocket-lint team, this week Duncan gives us a lesson in all things Pirate Bay and shares his love of Spotify.

The Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 also gets a plug while the trio discuss the trend for "mini" versions of popular phones.

Hit the play button above, or for a more interactive video, where the web page jumps around the web as the stories are discussed, head over to TechVi.com.

Tags: Audio Video TechVi Comment Phones Software

Pocket-lint on TechVi: Mini phones, Pirate Bay changes and awards season originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:33:18 +0000

A new Apple job advert is leading to all kinds of speculation around the Web as to what the consumer electronics giant is up to.

The Cupertino-based company is currently recruiting for a "Game/Media Software Engineer", a full-time position based at its Californian headquarters.

Apple wants the new staff member to work on "interactive multimedia experiences on the iPhone and iPod touch".

With being a "passionate gamer" a must, Apple is requesting that the candidate have experience of working on at least one "AAA title".

Is Apple about to branch wholesale into games development for its iPhone platform?

This seems unlikely considering the wealth of top quality games available from developers happy to do the hard work for a lucrative slot in the App Store.

Wilder speculation suggests the company needs an in-house bod to develop games for the much-rumoured iPad for its on-stage demo debut, as tasking a third party with such a job would leave the famously secretive company's future plans open to a leak.

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Related links:

• Link - Apple

Tags: Gaming Apple iPhones Phones Hardware iPad iTablet Rumours Software

Apple advertises for mystery games engineer originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:15:40 +0000

A startup called RidRx has created an adaptor that'll allow you to mod an old stethoscope into a fully-functioning iPhone or iPod touch-enabled version of the heartbeat detector. It comes with a phone dock/holder and an app that will record and analyse the audio you capture.

It's called the iStethoscope Pro, and can't be sold for anything other than recreational use thanks to the US regulators. However, it could prove useful - if only for kids who want to prove an irregular heartbeat to their PE teachers so they're able to get out of rugby practice on a cold November morning.

The adaptor kit costs $30, but you'll need to provide your own stethoscope - which will likely set you back the best part of $100 too, unless you know a friendly Doctor. The app itself costs 99 cents and is available now on the iPhone App Store.

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Tags: Phones iPhone apps Mobile phone apps iPhone Medical Health Sports Fitness Video

VIDEO: iPhone gets stethoscope adaptor originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:02:28 +0000

The Vodafone Pocket-lint Awards 2009 public vote is now live, letting you - our valued readers - have your say in which gadgets you think should be crowned top for 2009.

As you will see over on the voting page, each of the nine categories has five products that have been nominated as the best of the year.

We need your help to narrow the five down to one overall winner for each category, the result of which will be announced at our Awards ceremony on 7 December.

The public vote will count towards 10% of the overall scores, with the other 90% weighting from the official Pocket-lint judges (a panel of industry professionals from around the globe) so your vote will make a real difference to the final winners.

Head over to the voting page now where there's simple instructions on how to cast your vote and stay tuned for the results on 7 December.

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Tags: Audio Pocket-lint Awards Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness

Vodafone Pocket-lint Awards 2009 public vote is now live originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:30:29 +0000

Just over a year after the application's launch, Google has announced an update for Google Earth for the iPhone and iPod touch.

With the original at one point the second most-downloaded free application overall, it's an update that will likely be downloaded by a fair few users.

Version 2.0 of Google Earth for iPhone adds the ability to view maps created or saved on a desktop computer on an iPhone via the MyMaps settings, improved icon selection and performance and the availability of the app in new languages.

The app will be rolling out around the world over the next day or so, available to download for free from the iTunes App Store.

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Tags: Phones iPhone apps Google Google Earth Car And GPS Software updates Software

Google Earth hits version 2.0 for iPhone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:14:15 +0000

Magellan has joined the iPhone navigation party with the news it is to launch not just the RoadMate GPS application, but like TomTom and Navigon before it, a tailor-made car kit.

Magellan's offering is more of a rival to TomTom's system as it too claims to offer enhanced signal with a built-in GPS receiver, noise-cancelling speakerphone functionality, boasts in-car charging and can rotate for landscape and portrait use.

As far as the software goes, the Magellan offering looks fairly comprehensive with the navigation offering spoke street names, lane assist, 3D landmarks and address book integration.

Extras include in-app music control from the get-go, find your car functionality, a pedestrian mode and a "OneTouch" favourites menu.

Touch owners should note that when combined with the car kit - and its built-in GPS receiver - the set-up can turn the iPod into a navigation device too.

The app is available in the States now for $79.99, while pricing for the car kit (due late 2009) is $129.99, UK/Europe details are TBC.

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Tags: Phones iPhone apps Magellan GPS software Car And GPS Car gadgets

Magellan launches iPhone app and car kit originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:33:46 +0000

The countdown to?CES 2010, the biggest electronics trade show on the planet, has begun, but what can we expect from the show, and what should we start to get excited about? Here are six areas that are going to dominate the news come January.

Don't forget, Pocket-lint will be bringing you all the news, reviews, comment, photos and video as it happens in the run up to CES and live from Las Vegas for the duration of the show.

You can bookmark our CES coverage at pocket-lint.com/CES2010

Digital Living

Technology has gone mainstream supposedly, so that means the halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center will be filled with technology launches that embrace all of us rather than just a select few. In real terms that means everything from gadgets for kids, gadgets for mums and dads that look after kids, and gadgets for the silver surfer. Expect new toys for health, parenting and higher education.

Apple

Don't get too excited,?Apple isn't attending CES, regardless of how many rumours you hear, but that doesn't mean companies that work in the Apple eco-system aren't going to be in Vegas launching new gadgets. With a whole area dedicated to the iPod,?iPhone?and Macs, expect a fair share of iPod speakers, cables to connect to something else in your life and the usual array of cases to protect it all.

eBook readers

If you're planning on getting an ebook reader for Christmas you might want to think again. The ebook market has exploded in the US with Amazon,?Barnes & Noble?and?Sony?all fighting over each other to offer you the digital reader you supposedly need. Plastic Logic has already confirmed that it will be launching a new ebook at CES and there is bound to be other manufacturers like?Spring Design?and iRex offering new models.

3D

Riding on the wave of euphoria that Avatar will no doubt give the industry, consumer electronics manufacturers like?Sony, Toshiba, LG?and?Samsung?will be likely to be pushing?3D TV?hard at CES 2010. IFA 2009 already showed us the concepts, CES will show us the reality. Expect new televisions, announcements from the Blu-ray Disc Association, television makers, graphics card companies like Nvidia and movie companies all trying to get in on the action.

Netbooks

While most people have surely moved on from the popularity of netbooks, CES organisers CEA believe netbooks are going to still be big news at CES 2010. What that means is a barrage of computers that don't do much but let you surf the Web and write the odd document. Of course manufacturers will be trying to tell us otherwise with improved graphics courtesy of Nvidia and ATI. You should also probably expect a barrage of tablet devices with touchscreens allowing you to surf the Web around the home.

Green

With the economy making a comeback, manufacturers can once again turn their eyes to saving the planet. Although the idea of being green for green's sake is still very niche, generally manufacturers will be trying to tell you to ignore the thousands they are spending on lighting their booths and the sheer carbon emissions the show creates, by concentrating instead on how they've made advancements in the glass they use or the boxes your favourite gadgets go into. At least you can sleep at night knowing that we haven't had to chop down any trees to let you read this.

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Tags: Audio Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness CES2010 ebooks Televisions Netbooks Sony LG Samsung Toshiba Apple iPod iPhone 3DTV Laptops Eco Amazon Barnes and Noble Spring Design

CES 2010: What new gadgets will be announced? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0000

T-Mobile has admitted guilt in recent news that an unnamed mobile phone operator had been caught selling personal data about customers to competitors.?

Staff apparently passed on millions of records from thousands of customers to third party brokers, who then cold-called people who were near the ends of their contracts. The issue was discovered after customers complained about those very calls.?A T-Mobile spokesman said the data had been sold "without our knowledge".

The network faces large fines from the Information Commissioner, who also took the unusual step of calling for?the staff members responsible to be handed a prison sentence instead of the ordinary ?5000 fine that comes with a violation of Britain’s Data Protection Act.?

Are you a T-Mobile customer? How does this make you feel? Let us know in the comments.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone industry Biz Information Commissioner

Personal data sold by T-Mobile originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:43:30 +0000

iPhone owning Star Wars fans hoping to relive the final battle scene of Star Wars, where you get a chance to take down the Death Star as if you were shooting Womp rats on Tatooine, can now do so following the launch of a new game for the iPhone.

Star Wars: Trench Run puts you in the cockpit of a Rebel X-Wing as you take on the Galactic Empire and is controlled by moving your iPhone forwards and backwards and side to side (thanks to the accelerometer).

The games developers, THQ, have said that the game adds special graphical features for the iPod touch second-generation, iPhone 3GS and other future devices meaning users will get a better graphics experience where possible.

The game is available to download from the App Store and costs $4.99 in the US and ?2.99 in the UK.?

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps iPhone iPhone apps Star Wars Star Wars Trench War

Star Wars: Trench Run for iPhone lets you bring down the Death Star originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:07:10 +0000

A UK mobile phone operator has seen a data leak of millions of records from thousands of customers, the information commissioner has revealed.

Staff at one of the UK's major mobile phone companies sold on the customer information to other phone firms, Christopher Graham told the BBC, making a mockery of the data protection act.

Customers have reported being cold-called as their contracts came to an end, ultimately resulting in the phone company alerting the watchdog to the problem.

The information commissioner has searched company premises, interviewed employees and is planning to prosecute those involved, but the operator has not been officially named.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone industry Biz Information Commissioner O2 Orange Vodafone T-Mobile 3

UK mobile phone operator sees major data theft originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:36:03 +0000

The latest episode of Pocket-lint's Tech Week In View has hit the small screen as a moustachioed Stuart Miles brings his unique take on the big tech stories of the last week or so.

Miles considers Rupert Murdoch's threat to build a pay-wall for News Corp's online content to stop everyone "stealing" it and there's the old faithful of the debate over violent video games as Modern Warfare 2 heads to the top of the charts.

Future tech also goes briefly under the microscope as Miles muses the technology he's seen of late and its implications for the near future.

Finally, has the Twitter bubble burst? An 8% dip in Twitter use in the States during October has seen nay-sayers suggesting that the micro-blogging site has peaked. Hit play on the video above to see Stuart's take on all this.

Tags: Audio Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness Video Comment

VIDEO: Tech Week in View - Murdoch, violent games and the Twitter bubble bursting originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:18:15 +0000

Microsoft's Windows Mobile Application Markplace has opened a little wider to encompass any handset running Windows Mobile 6.0 or above. Previously, it was only available to handsets running the very latest version - Windows Mobile 6.5.

The catalogue contains over 800 apps, so it rivals Palm's App Catalog, but both remain a drop in the ocean compared to the Android and iPhone app stores. Still, developers might be more keen to develop for Windows Mobile now that more than a handful of phones can access it.

However, there's always been a vast ecosystem of Windows Mobile applications - they're just not all concentrated in one place. Microsoft now has a hell of a task in front of it, in attempting to collect them together. You can grab it by hitting up mp.windowsphone.com in your phone browser.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Windows Mobile Windows Phone App Store Microsoft

Windows Mobile App Marketplace opens to all originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:11:07 +0000

Rather than go down the Pizza Hut route of offering a full fledged iPhone app, Dominos has taken the Papa John's path by offering an optimised version of its site for those with iPhones.

Said to be "specially made for the phone" Domino's iPhone option is accessed online from www.dominos.co.uk or www.dominos.ie and offers all of the features of the main site, but "optimised into a bite sized form".

The "app", created by Vexed, went live on 13 November and is said to have already seen "thousands of orders" from mobile pizza fans across the UK and Ireland.? ?

Sales and marketing director for Domino's in the UK and Ireland, Robin Auld, said: "The translation of our site onto the iPhone has already proved popular with our customers".

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Tags: Phones Dominos iPhone apps Online Software Vexed

Dominos claims to offer iPhone app originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:10:20 +0000

The Samsung Galaxy i7500's little brother - which we knew was incoming - has finally been made official.

The new handset will launch as the Samsung Galaxy Spica i5700 and offers DivX support, DNSe 2.0, a 3.5mm ear jack and measures in at 13.2mm thick.

Previous reports suggested it boasts the same AMOLED touchscreen, Wi-Fi and Android OS as its predecessor, but storage is down to 1GB and camera is down to 3.2-megapixel, without a flash.

As an Android device, the Galaxy Spica supports the full suite of Google services, including Google Search, Google Maps, Gmail, YouTube, and Google Talk.

Samsung says the device is already out in Europe - a UK launch is planned but we're waiting to hear on availability.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Samsung Android Samsung Galaxy Spica i5700

Samsung Galaxy Spica i5700 announced originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:52:32 +0000

Here is the full list of nominations for The Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009.

The following products were chosen because we feel they represent the best of the best in the category, and ones that given the money we would recommend you buy or at least try. All have gone on sale in the last 12 months that are available in the UK.?

The nominations are:

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Best Music Gadget 2009

Sonos S5 ZonePlayer

Monitor Audio Airstream 10

Etymotic/ACS hf2 custom fit headphones

Griffin myPhones headphones

Apple iPod touch 3G

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Best Car Gadget 2009

TomTom XL Live

CoPilot for iPhone

Navigon 8410

Jabra SP700

TomTom One IQ

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Best Digital Camera 2009

Olympus Pen E-P1

Canon PowerShot S90

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1?

Nikon D5000

FujiFilm FinePix F200EXR

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Best Laptop 2009

Apple MacBook Pro

Sony VAIO VGN-Z21ZN/X

Dell Adamo XPS

HP Envy

Toshiba NB200

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Best Software, Service, or App 2009

Spotify

Windows 7

Tweetie 2

Dropbox

Sky Player for Xbox

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Best Video Game 2009

Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Guitar Hero 5

Battlefield 1943

Batman: Arkham Asylum

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2

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Best Home Cinema Device 2009

Philips 56PFL9954H Cinema 21:9 television

Panasonic DMR-BS850 Freesat Blu-ray recorder

LG 37LH7000 television

Sony PlayStation 3 Slim console

Humax Freesat+ FOXSAT-HDR recorder

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Best Mobile Phone 2009

HTC Hero

iPhone 3GS

Palm Pre

BlackBerry Bold 9700

HTC HD2

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Best Gadget 2009

Dyson Air Multiplier

Eye-Fi

Livescribe pen

Logitech Wireless Guitar

Sony Reader Pocket Edition

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Product of the year 2009

HTC Hero mobile phone

Spotify

Apple Mac Book Pro

Eytmotics HF2 Custom Fit headphones

Canon PowerShot S90 digital camera

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Now in its 6th year, the Pocket-lint Gadget Awards, thought to be the longest running in the UK, pick the best gadgets and gizmos from the last year released in the UK.

Pocket-lint's vigorous vetting process means that all the gadgets up for nomination have to have been seen by a member of the Pocket-lint team (so far over 600) and have to have been available in the UK between December 2008 and December 2009.

The awards, voted by a panel of leading gadget journalists from around the world, including the staff from the Pocket-lint team, will decide the real must-have gadgets of the year, rather than those simply deemed cool or anticipated, being the definitive guide for consumers looking to buy gadgets.

Winners will be announced at an Awards evening in London on Monday 7 December.

If you would like to order tickets to the event please visit our awards event page.

Public voting will start on Wednesday 18 November.

Related links:

• Link - Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009

Tags: Audio Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness Pocket-lint Awards Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009

Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 Nominations in full originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:00:00 +0000

Here are the nominations for the Product of the Year in The Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009.

The following products were chosen because we feel they represent the best of the best, and ones that given the money we would recommend you buy or at least try. All have gone on sale in the last 12 months and are available in the UK.

The nominations are:

HTC Hero mobile phone

Spotify

Apple Mac Book Pro

Etymotic/ACS hf2 custom fit headphones

Canon PowerShot S90 digital camera

Now in its 6th year, the Pocket-lint Gadget Awards, thought to be the longest running in the UK, pick the best gadgets and gizmos from the last year released in the UK.

Pocket-lint's vigorous vetting process means that all the gadgets up for nomination have to have been seen by a member of the Pocket-lint team (so far over 600) and have to have been available in the UK between December 2008 and December 2009.

The awards, voted by a panel of leading gadget journalists from around the world, including the staff from the Pocket-lint team, will decide the real must-have gadgets of the year, rather than those simply deemed cool or anticipated, being the definitive guide for consumers looking to buy gadgets.

Winners will be announced at an Awards evening in London on Monday 7 December.

If you would like to order tickets to the event please visit our awards event page.

Public voting will start on Wednesday 18 November.

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Related links:

• Link - Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009

Tags: Audio Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness Pocket-lint Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009

Product of the Year 2009 nominations originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Compared to the might of the iPhone App Store, and slightly-less-but-still-respectable presence of the Android Market, Palm's webOS App Catalog, used by the Pre and the Pixi, looks decidedly lacklustre.

However, it has just got a tiny bit bigger with the addition of an official Facebook application. It's not exactly extensive - just delivering an unfiltered live stream of your friends' activities with the ability to comment and "like" particular items.

You can post to it yourself, and add a picture, but that's pretty much it. No events, information, search or anything else. Still, something is better than nothing, right? You'll need webOS 1.3.1, and you should be able to find it in the webOS App Catalog.

Let us know what you think of the app in the comments.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Facebook Palm Pre Palm Pixi WebOS

Palm Pre and Pixi get Facebook app originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:56:05 +0000

Here are the nominations for Best Mobile Phone in The Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009.

The following products were chosen because we feel they represent the best phones on sale in the last 12 months that are available in the UK.

The nominations are:

HTC Hero

iPhone 3GS

Palm Pre

BlackBerry Bold 9700

HTC HD2

A notable commendation should also go to the Sony Ericsson W995 and the Nokia N900.

Now in its 6th year, the Pocket-lint Gadget Awards, thought to be the longest running in the UK, pick the best gadgets and gizmos from the last year released in the UK.

Pocket-lint's vigorous vetting process means that all the gadgets up for nomination have to have been seen by a member of the Pocket-lint team (so far over 600) and have to have been available in the UK between December 2008 and December 2009.

The awards, voted by a panel of leading gadget journalists from around the world, including the staff from the Pocket-lint team, will decide the real must-have gadgets of the year, rather than those simply deemed cool or anticipated, being the definitive guide for consumers looking to buy gadgets.

Winners will be announced at an Awards evening in London on Monday 7 December.

If you would like to order tickets to the event please visit our awards event page.

Public voting will start on Wednesday 18 November.

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Related links:

• Link - Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Apple Palm BlackBerry Sony Ericsson Nokia

Best Mobile Phone 2009 nominations originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

In the States, LG has announced the launch of the Shine II, describing it as "another flash of brilliance in their product line".

Following on from the Shine's multi-million-selling success, the next-gen handset is available at AT&T and stays faithful to the original Black Label handset as far as overall design goes.

Featuring polished round edges and an "elegant" slider design, the LG Shine II boasts stainless steel construction and a 2.2-inch mirror LCD display.

There's also a music player and stereo Bluetooth, a 2-megapixel camera with flash and video recording complete with basic editing software.

The LG Shine II will be available at AT&T across the States from 22 November. Pricing has been revealed as $119.99 after a mail-in rebate for a 2-year agreement.

A UK release has not yet been announced for the Shine II, but we will keep you posted with news.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones LG LG Shine II AT and T

LG Shine II announced in the States originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:27:56 +0000

A new BlackBerry-flavoured rumour has emerged suggesting RIM is not planning on putting all its future eggs solely in the touchscreen basket.

While RIM's first touchscreen handset, the Storm, got mixed reviews for its click-touch screen, the second gen version, the Storm 2 (available now) is said to have a greatly improved touchscreen interface.

However, this maybe a step too far for many BlackBerry-using diehards who favour RIM's smartphones for their QWERTY keyboards.

If the rumours are to be believed, RIM is busy prepping a touchscreen slider that will offer consumers "the best of both worlds".

The rumour has gained pace with a recent research note from Kaufman Bros analyst Shaw Wu who says the new handset, "resembles a cross between the Storm 2 and one of RIM's non-touch QWERTY devices".

"It's currently in the prototype stage and is likely to ship sometime in 2010", reports Electronista quoting Wu's research.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones BlackBerry RIM Rumours BlackBerry 9900 Mr T

New sliding touchscreen BlackBerry rumoured originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:40:01 +0000

The O2 Joggler, the company's connected family-organiser-digi-frame-come-media-hub offering, has seen a dramatic price cut in the UK, suggesting the ?149 the operator was asking for the device was deemed too high by consumers.

The Joggler will now cost ?99.99 and from now on offers internet radio - bringing over 100 radio stations to the device for free - as powered by Pure's radio and media portal The Lounge.

The new addition means the Joggler now offers a calendar, music and video player, photo viewer, as well as news, traffic, weather and messaging options.

O2 is also upgrading the device's software from Flash 8 to Flash 10 and has revealed it will be making an SDK available to developers shortly via O2 Litmus, so they can create downloadable Joggler apps.

Following on from the availability of the SDK, O2 will be launching an application store for the O2 Joggler which is due to go live on the device by the end of the year.

The paid-for apps "could include anything from internet shopping through to video recipes and takeaway food applications", says O2, which clearly has big ambitions for the niche device.

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Tags: Phones O2 Digital photo frames O2 Joggler Pure Internet radios

O2 Joggler sees price cut by a third originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:37:31 +0000

Muggles everywhere can become fledgling wizards with the help of a new iPhone and iPod touch app. Warner Bros' digital arm is offering the new spell app that "will turn iPhones and iPod touches into magic wands".

Offering over ten "spells" the app can be practised alone before would-be wizards can "duel" opponents.

The only official Harry Potter game available on the App Store, it's available now for ?2.99 or $4.99. There's an official trailer above and more at www.harrypotterspellsapp.com.

Tags: Phones iPhone apps Harry Potter Video App Store

VIDEO: Official Harry Potter iPhone app launches originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:40:32 +0000

Sony Ericsson has revealed a little more about the launch timescale for its latest Xperia-branded handset, the X10.

Via a pre-order page on its site, the phone manufacturer has revealed that the new high-end handset is due in February.

We knew the X10 was getting a Q1 launch, but this is the first time the phone's debut has been pinned down to a month - although the exact text reads: "Expected launch - Feb '10".

Those who like the look of the new Android device can pre-register their interest now to be kept informed of progress.

The touchscreen X10 offers a 4-inch display, a 1GHz Snapdragon processor, an 8-megapixel camera, HSDPA, Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth and Sony Ericsson's new Mediascape and Timescape applications.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Sony Ericsson Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Android

Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 dated originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:13:14 +0000

Nokia has unveiled a new version of its 5330 handset - the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition, described as "an entertainment hub" that combines the EU's preferred brand of mobile TV - DVB-H, social networking, music and gaming "in one compact 3G device".

With a QVGA 2.4-inch screen, the phone has a 3.5mm headphone jack as well as built-in speakers and boasts Nokia's Electronic Program Guide and a battery life for watching TV for 6 hours.

Nokia vice president Mark Selby says: "The introduction of the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition responds to the arrival of DVB-H broadcast mobile TV networks in new markets and offers an affordable device for new and existing customers alike".

DVB-H mobile TV services are currently available in Austria, Finland, Ghana, Kenya, India, Italy, Namibia, Nigeria, Netherlands, Philippines and Switzerland. Nokia says "additional commercial launches can be expected during the next 12-18 months in more than 20 countries".

The Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition will cost 155 euros before taxes and subsidies.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Nokia Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition DVB-H Mobile TV

Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition announced originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:44:27 +0000

Google has published the source code of Android 2.0 - the next version of its operating system, and the one that appears on the recently-released Motorola Droid. Until now, only Motorola and HTC had access to the source, but Google has just opened it up for everyone.

The software update features multiple email accounts, exchange support, new address book functionality, a combined inbox, better search, an improved camera, an improved keyboard, a better browser, and more useful calendar, as well as Bluetooth 2.1, better media playback, and more options for developers.

Hackers have already ported the update over to the G1, the very first Android handset to be released. The team behind the port - Cyanogen - said that the handset runs "really well, fast and smooth" with the 2.0 software. They haven't yet got audio/video playback working, but it's likely not to be far away.

For those unwilling to hack their handsets, though, you'll need to wait for a patch from your phone manufacturer. Expect one to be on the way - we'll let you know when they're released.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Google Android HTC Motorola Operating Systems G1

Android 2.0 source code appears originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:34:56 +0000

The Palm Pixi, the second webOS handset from the smartphone company, is now available in the US. With a candybar form factor, as opposed to the Pre's slider design, the new phone is on sale exclusively through Sprint.

American consumers wanting the new device will need to stump up $99.99 (after a $100 rebate) and sign up to a 2-year contract.

The slimline 3G Pixi gets a 2.63-inch, 320 x 400 resolution touchscreen, Qualcomm’s MSM7627 chipset, Microsoft Exchange push email, built-in GPS, a 2-megapixel camera with flash, accelerometer, media player, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR, 8GB memory, microUSB connector and a 3.5mm stereo jack.

Here in the UK O2, which currently offers the Palm Pre, has expressed an interest in offering the Pixi, but a launch is yet to be confirmed.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Palm Palm Pixi Sprint

Palm Pixi goes on sale in the US originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:10:31 +0000

After what seems like decades of speculation, Dell has finally confirmed that the company has a mobile phone ready for launch. The Dell Mini 3i Android-based smartphone will be hitting the shelves on China Mobile later this month, while Brazil's Claro network will have it by the end of the year.

Both networks represent a serious numbers game with 42 million users across the Americas on Claro and China Mobile being the largest in the world, and together they provide a vast platform for the Texas computer manufacturer to enter the mobile market.

Details on the handset itself seem to be as speculated, with a 3.5-inch capacitive touchscreen on a 360 x 640 pixel display. No word as to when or where else in the world it might arrive next but implications in the Dell press release are that the 3i will be part of a larger Dell Mini 3 smartphone series.

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Related links:

• News - PHOTOS: Hands-on with the tiny Dell Inspiron Zino HD
• News - PHOTOS: LG GW620 Android phone

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Dell Android

Dell confirms Android smartphone launch originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:11:14 +0000

Since we announced the Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards, nominations have been flying in to Pocket-lint headquarters at a rate of knots.

With a lot of lists, flow charts, pie graphs, copious amounts of coffee and a fair few, shall we say, heated discussions, we're almost ready to reveal the final lists for each category.

The numerous nominations have been narrowed down to five products in each of the categories, which will then see the sparks really start fly as our panel of judges whittle those down to the one winner from each.

Check back on Monday when we will reveal the five finalists for each of the nine categories, one from each which will ultimately be crowned best of 2009.

Tags: Audio Car And GPS Dad Gadgets Gaming Hardware Home And Kitchen Home Cinema Phones Cameras Software Sports Fitness Pocket-lint Gadget Awards 2009 Pocket-lint Awards

Vodafone Pocket-lint Gadget Awards nominations to be revealed on Monday 16 November originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:49:33 +0000

Apple's newest retail store, due to open its shiny doors this weekend on Saturday 14 November boasts "more Macs, iPods and iPhones than any store in the world".

The store is located under a "breathtaking all-glass arched roof" on New York's Upper West Side on Broadway at 67th Street and is the company's 279th shop and fourth in Manhattan - 15th in the NYC area.

The lower level features the largest area ever created by Apple for personal training and technical support, including a 45-foot Genius Bar with 200 employees overall.

"We opened our first store in Manhattan seven years ago, and the response has been incredible", said Ron Johnson, Apple's senior vice president of retail.

"We hope our new store on the Upper West Side will become as much a part of the community as our stores in SoHo, the Meatpacking District and on Fifth Avenue".

Tags: Hardware Apple shopping Audio Phones Biz

Apple's newest store boasts more Macs, iPods and iPhones than any in the world originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:10:21 +0000

As most BlackBerry users will know, BlackBerry themes are available to change the range of smartphone's homescreen looks including options to select different designs for the background image, as well as the icon and cursor style.

Now RIM has announced that BlackBerry owners can make their own BlackBerry theme with the release of BlackBerry Theme Studio 5.0 making it "pretty easy" to customise a BlackBerry with a unique theme.

"All you need", says RIM in a blog post, "is a bit of creativity and some skills with graphics software like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe After Effects or BlackBerry Composer".

The blog is offering a comprehensive walkthrough of the main interface of BlackBerry Theme Studio 5.0 with a step-by-step how-to on DIY themes promised soon.

In the meantime BlackBerry users can download BlackBerry Theme Studio (a Windows app) for free from www.blackberry.com/themestudio.

UPDATE: The step-by-step guide is now live.

Tags: Phones BlackBerry RIM Mobile phone apps

BlackBerry users offered the option to create their own themes originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:39:31 +0000

The second handset to offer the Vodafone 360 experience, and the H1's little brother the Samsung M1, is now available in the UK.

As many of you will know Vodafone 360 is a new set of internet services for the mobile and PC which gathers all contacts from your phone and social networks in one place.

Available in "iridium black" and "neon rush", the M1 boasts a 3.2-inch touchscreen display, 3.2-megapixel camera, built-in GPS, push email, audio and video playback, up to 10 hours talk time, 1GB memory expandable with microSD card and Bluetooth 2.0.

The Vodafone 360 Samsung M1 is now available for free on 24-month contracts from ?20 per month.

Related links:

• Feature - What exactly is Vodafone 360?

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Vodafone Samsung Vodafone 360 Samsung M1

Vodafone 360 Samsung M1 now available originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:08:25 +0000

A new tablet has emerged to take on Archos' dominance in the media tablet market from OEM Moto.

The Moto AMP (Android Media Platform) will eventually form a range of three models with 3.5- and 10-inchers due, but for now it's just the 5-incher available.

Boasting a 5-inch OLED capacitive touchscreen good for multi-touch, the tablet offers Wi-Fi, 3G, SD card slot, 720p video and an 8-megapixel camera.

There's no news on which company might pick this up yet, but we'll be sure to keep you posted.

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Tags: Gadgets Internet tablets Moto Android PMPs OLED Phones

5-inch Android-based OLED media tablet unveiled by OEM Moto originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:43:03 +0000

Further to reports suggesting it was about to, Samsung has announced it has no plans to ditch the Symbian operating system for its future smartphones.

While it had been reported that Samsung senior VP Don Joo Lee had said the company would be looking to Android, Windows Mobile and its own bada platform from now on, the company has issued a statement to the contrary.

"Samsung is an initial member of Symbian Foundation and continues to cooperate with Symbian Foundation. At the same time, Samsung supports various existing open operating systems including Symbian, Linux, Android, and Windows Mobile. To provide more choices to meet consumers' many different tastes and preferences, we will continue our 'multi-OS' strategy".

An SDK for Samsung's bada platform is due in December, while the first bada phones are due in the first half of 2010.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone industry Samsung Symbian Samsung bada

Samsung denies ditching Symbian originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:29:40 +0000

Qualcomm has unveiled a new device called the Lenovo Smartbook that it hopes will marry the smartphone with the netbook, very much like the HTC advantage attempted to do in 2007.

Qualcomm's CEO Paul Jacobs showed off the shiny, red smartbook during the company's annual analyst meeting in New York according to reports online.

The device, which is expected to be officially launched at CES 2010, sports a clamshell design to reveal a keyboard and screen.

It will be powered by a Qualcomm snapdragon chipset and be 3G enabled on AT&T's network in the US Qualcomm's CEO confirmed.

The Snapdragon chipset can already be found in the Acer Liquid, the HTC HD2, the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 and the Toshiba TG01.

Although no name has yet to be given, Qualcomm has said that it will run with the advertising slogan "The world organized around you" hoping the device would act like a sixth sense.

Tags: Hardware Phones Qualcomm Lenovo Smartbook Lenovo UMPC Snapdragon Netbooks CES2010

Qualcomm Lenovo Smartbook unveiled originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:46:01 +0000

A user at gadget teardown site iFixit by the name of Dr. Wreck, has decided that what he really wants to do with his shiny new Motorola Droid smartphone is to rip it apart, exposing its silicon underbelly for the benefit of gawping tech geeks on the Web.

According to the site, the handset was "quite a handful to take apart, having a multitude of hidden screws and latches". Unfortunately there weren't any secret messages or infrared QR codes, though. Most notable was that the QWERTY is slid out by two simple rails embedded in the screen chunk of the device.

Dr Wreck's been handed $300 for his time and dedicated effort - which we suspect he'll spend on a new Droid. For more images, head over to the full teardown on iFixit.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Motorola Motorola Droid Android iFixit

Motorola Droid gets ripped apart originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:54:30 +0000

Pocket-lint has teamed up with video news site TechVi to bring you a weekly show analysing the biggest stories of the week.

Hosted by Randall Bennett and featuring members of the Pocket-lint team, we'll be giving you our opinions on what we think is going on behind the stories that are hitting the headlines each week.

This week Duncan and Dan discuss Rupert Murdoch's move to remove his content from Google, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, the iPhone being rickrolled and Palestinian streets.

Hit the play button above, or for a more interactive video, where the web page jumps around the Web as the stories are discussed, head over to Techvi.com.

Tags: Gaming Software Biz Gadgets Phones Video TechVi

Pocket-lint on TechVi: Murdoch, MW2 and streets in Palestine originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:47:33 +0000

TomTom has now confirmed what Pocket-lint brought you news of back in early October - that its iPhone app is soon to receive a free software update.

The free update, which TomTom says is being submitted to Apple - almost as we type - for its approval, claims to bring "significant and advanced additional features".

This includes advanced lane guidance for difficult junctions in both landscape and portrait mode and text-to-speech functionality that will see street names and places read aloud as part of the spoken instructions.

In addition, TomTom's "Help Me" emergency feature from its in-car satnavs will be ported to the mobile platform, there'll be options to customise audio warnings, while maps and safety camera databases will see an update.

Finally the app will catch up with other offerings on the market by adding iPod player control "ensuring drivers can conveniently control their music from within the application".

We will bring you more on the Apple approval and the availability of the update as soon as we hear it.

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Related links:

• News - TomTom car kit for iPhone on sale now

Tags: Phones iPhone apps TomTom GPS software Software updates GPS Apple App Store

TomTom confirms iPhone app update originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:33:59 +0000

An image of what's said to be the first device from Samsung to feature its newly-announced "bada" mobile phone platform has hit the Web.

Coming hours after the bada announcement, and with bada phones not due until the first half of 2010 (the SDK has not yet been released) it's more likely this is a fan mock-up.

The image's online source GSM Helpdesk has not revealed where the image came from but speculates it "might as well be a 'Photoshop case' from a very creative Samsung fanatic".

We will keep you posted with all Samsung bada news as we hear it.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Samsung Samsung bada Rumours

First Samsung bada phone revealed originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:06:59 +0000

A recent study by Nokia and Kings' College London Department of Twin Research has examined the music taste of nearly 4000 twins.

The results boil down to suggest up to 50% of music taste has already been decided by our genes, although "on the whole, musical taste is determined just as much by nature as it is by specific individual experiences".

"As much as 50% of our musical taste being predetermined, it appears there is a strong argument for the existence of 'music genes'", says Adrian North, professor of psychology at Heriot Watt University. ?

Nature's influence is said to be strongest on the appreciation of pop, classical and hip-hop music,? and weakest when it comes to country, hit play on the video above for more.

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Tags: Audio Nokia Phones Video Music

VIDEO: Nokia reveals twins' music taste study results originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:51:57 +0000

An iPhone application that costs ?600 is proving surprisingly popular, according to its makers. The iVIP Black application offers more than the "I Am Rich" app (which was withdrawn from the App Store by Apple) - it gives access to an "exclusive network".

That network includes privileges and benefits across a range of luxury partners including private islands, a concierge, supercar club, private jets, theatres, members’ clubs, butlers, and various other options. It's not just there to display on your homescreen to display how wealthy you are, though of course it does that too.

Users who download the app are required to fill out a "High Net Worth Individual certification", so only "millionaires" are permitted to use it. However, the price does include a consultation where your personal copy of iVIP is customised to suit your needs. "There is no privilege, experience or desire that cannot be incorporated", says the company.

If you don't want to splash out six hundred squid, there's the option of iVIP Blue for ?280, which doesn't give you the consultation, but does offer the same access to the services listed above. And if you don't want to spend anywhere near that amount, then there'll soon be iVIP Red - a preview app that has full functionality but no access to the iVIP network.

Ridiculous, or a way of differentiating yourself from the masses? Tell us what you think in the comments box below.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps iPhone apps iPhone iVIP

600-quid iPhone app selling well, claims maker originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:04:04 +0000

The Palm Pre - launched in the UK back in October - has now being stocked by high street giant The Carphone Warehouse. O2 has the UK exclusive on the Pre (for now) and is offering the handset for free on ?35 per month, 2-year contracts.

From a customer point of view the only difference is that there's now more places you can pick up a Pre, but from a business standpoint, seeing the new webOS device hit the shelves across CPW's many stores might make a difference in sales volume, especially in the lead up to Christmas.

Sales stats for the device aren't known, but O2 said of the Pre's launch that it sold more Pre handsets on the day than the total number of handsets that it normally sells on the average day.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Palm Pre Carphone Warehouse O2 Pre Palm

Palm Pre goes on sale at the Carphone Warehouse originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:54:18 +0000

Japan's Mobile Art Lab has come up with a charming new way to use the iPhone. The clever designers have created a book-shaped frame for the handset in which the iPhone slots, turning it into an interactive story book for children. Hit play now on the demo video above to see the charming concept in action.

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Tags: Phones iPhone apps Dad Books iPhone Video

VIDEO: iPhone becomes interactive children's book originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:14:11 +0000

"Much anticipated upgrades for Windows Marketplace for Mobile" have now gone live, reports Microsoft in a blog post.

Part of the second wave of features promised, there's said to be more advanced anti-piracy protection and an improved developer portal, as well as the introduction of PC-based shopping and account management for Windows Phone customers.

From now on, Windows Phone customers can browse, buy and download applications online at the Windows Marketplace for Mobile site with the apps then delivered wirelessly to the Windows Phone.

"We've been open for just over one month and already we can see that there's demand for an application marketplace that doesn’t compromise on quality or experience", says Microsoft.

It has also been revealed that the Marketplace will soon be available for those using older version of the Windows Mobile OS, with the following quote:

"I look forward to providing a more detailed update on Windows Marketplace for Mobile when we extend the service to Windows Mobile 6.0 and 6.1 customers later this month".

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Tags: Phones Mobile phone apps Microsoft Windows Marketplace Windows Phone

Windows Marketplace for Mobile gets updated originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:39:59 +0000

The HTC HD2 is now available on Vodafone in the UK, as we'd reported it would be.

The big-hitting Windows Phone handset is available for free on ?35 per month, 2-year contracts. There's also a ?40 per month, 2-year effort if you need more bundled minutes.

If you'd prefer an 18-month contract then you'll have to stump up ?40 per month while again there's also a ?45 per month option that offers more free minutes.

There are no 12-month plans and there's no pay as you go option from Vodafone right now, so it looks like if you do fancy this high-end mobile you're going to have to get the pen out and sign away a fair chunk of your mobile life, as is becoming the norm with high-end handsets.

The new HD2 Windows Mobile 6.5 smartphone offers a 4.3-inch multi-touch display, a speedy Snapdragon processor, a 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and HSDPA.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Vodafone HTC HD2 Tariffs

Vodafone offers HTC HD2 free on contract originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 11:13:21 +0000

Technically the Wi-Fi roll-out across Phones4U stores in the UK is meant for staff and customers to be able to test the handsets on sale online, but unofficially there's a new place in town to head if you need a cheeky online fix.

Phones4U has become Freerunner's (the free public Wi-Fi network) first UK commercial retailer.
The roll-out of Freerunner's Wi-Fi to 450 stores across the UK will start immediately with all stores due to be up and running in November.

Brendan Sweeney, MD of Phones 4U says: "Free public WiFi in our stores will allow our team members to show off our market leading range of products to the best of their ability and allow our customers to connect for free as they are browsing".

Tags: Phones Broadband Software Wi-Fi Phones4U Freerunner

Phones4U stores to offer free Wi-Fi originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:36:57 +0000

The LG Pop is the Korean company's latest assault on the low-end of the touchscreen mobile market.

Currently on sale for a shade under a hundie at the Carphone Warehouse, those thinking about taking the plunge might like to see this video overview first.

Hit play on the video above for a quick look at the new mobile that's said to be the smallest 3-inch touchphone on the market.

Tags: Phones Mobile phones LG Video LG Pop

VIDEO: LG Pop gets low-key walkthrough originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:06:40 +0000