We've seen a couple of reports on message boards that seem to indicate that the iconic Technics SL-1200 and SL-1210s may be about to be discontinued. If true, it would be a surprise, as both models represent iconic turntables and are widely considered the industry standard in nightclubs.

The rumours appear to originate from a New Zealand DJ shop called DMC World, which says on its product page: "Panasonic (the manufacturer of Technics) have announced that production of the world famous Technics SL-1200 and SL-1210 DJ turntables will stop at the end of February 2010".

The turntables have been around for more than 35 years, and are featured in the London museum of Science and Technology as an important step in how music has been played and presented over the last century. Their popularity has ensued due to their tank-like construction, high torque and effective insulation from acoustic feedback.

Another DJ shop - storedj.com.au - reportedly told recipients of its email newsletter: "You hear parents talking about where they were when they heard that JFK was shot, or that man landed on the Moon. For DJs, this news will come with similar surprise. The gracious founder and mother of all DJ equipment, the Technics SL-1200 is being put to bed and will no longer be produced".

And an Australian dance music website, inthemix.com.au, has a quote from a Panasonic spokesman - Ian North - who says: "It is a sad day today but due to low sales globally in analogue turntables a decision to stop production has been made on Technics Turntables. For Australia this means we will receive our last shipment in March".

There's a few question marks over this story - "Why?" is the biggest. Even though DJs are increasingly shifting to CD players and computers to mix on, the 1200s always appear highly on DJ shops' best-seller lists thanks to their reputation, and despite their sky-high price.

Also, the rumour appears to come exclusively from down under, so the withdrawal could be limited to the Antipodes. We've contacted Panasonic's press office for clarification about what's going on, and we'll update this post when we hear more.

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Tags: Audio Panasonic Technics DJ Tech DJ Technics SL-1200 Technics SL-1210 Turntables Rumours

Panasonic discontinuing Technics 1200 turntables? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:50:48 +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

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

The Rupert Murdoch saga over Google making News Corp content widely available for people to "steal" has taken an interesting turn according to recent insider reports, suggesting Microsoft has been invited to enter talks with the media giant on the topic.

The reports suggest that Microsoft, with an opportunity to get one over on search behemoth Google, could offer to pay News Corp to "de-index" its news websites from Google, therefore making Microsoft's search offering Bing the place to go for News Corp news content.

While in the UK this could mean content from the The Times and The Sun no longer appearing on Google News, The Financial Times states that Microsoft has also suggested the payment plan to other big online publishers as an incentive to get them to remove their sites from Google's search engine too.

Murdoch has already threatened to remove News Corp content from Google, so this scheme, financed by Microsoft's large coffers, could offer the perfect solution for Murdoch - if not for the consumer.

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Tags: Software Search engines Microsoft News Corp Google Rumours Biz Google News Bing

Microsoft offers money for News Corp to de-Google its content originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:42:08 +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

You've probably only just got used to your brand new "official" version of Windows 7, but now you can look forward to Windows 8 if you're already getting itchy feet.

Based on the usual subjective guessing that Apple fans usual partake in, msftkitchen.com, a site that describes itself as "serving up some seriously tasty Microsoft" is putting two and two together and making four (and a bit).

Based on historical assumptions, and previous quotes from the boys and girls at Microsoft, the author of the article, Stephen Chapman is predicting

"Windows 8 being released around a time frame of 2012".

How has Chapman come to this conclusion? It's all based on the timeline for Microsoft's Windows Server OS, which serves as the backbone to Microsoft's consumer based OS launches. ?As the flowchart shows, it's had a release every 4 to 5 years.

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Software Operating Systems Microsoft Windows 8 Rumours

Roadmap says we should expect Windows 8 in 2012 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:10:16 +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

In a paradoxical twist, the as-yet-unconfirmed Apple tablet has apparently suffered a major delay.

A recent report suggests the launch of the multimedia tablet - dubbed the iPad or iTablet - has been pushed back from early 2010 to the second half of the year.

The reason for the delay is said to be the late decision from Apple to add a 9.7-inch OLED display to the device.

There's also now said to be a 10.6-inch model in the iTablet range, although this is said to offer a more bog-standard LCD panel.

The OLED display is said to come from LG, DigiTimes quotes sources from component makers as stating, with Foxconn, Quanta and Pegatron pegged as manufacturers.

OLED is an expensive technology, with current prices for a 9.7-inch panel said to come in at around the $500 mark.

This has led to fresh estimates that suggest the OLED iTablet could cost as much as $2000 to the consumer, with the larger LCD model tipped to be priced between $800 and $1000.

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Tags: Hardware Apple iPad iTablet Rumours OLED

Apple tablet delayed by late decision to add OLED display originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:09:47 +0000

Conde Nast has revealed it is prepping a digital version of its tech mag Wired for Apple's rumoured tablet device, even though it says Apple is "not talking to anyone openly" about the rumoured hardware.

It seems the publisher is so certain of Apple's plans for a large touchscreen device it's getting the digi-tablet version of Wired ready for a mid-2010 launch and plans to make similar versions of its 18 titles available too.

Conde Nast says "it's confident that we'll soon see multiple versions of machines featuring large colour touchscreens and wireless connections", reports D: All Things Digital.

On the hardware front the publisher is working with HP and with Adobe on software, with the latter creating a new digital magazine publishing tool for the new format, that will be a Conde Nast exclusive at launch, although will be offered to other companies next year.

Recently the executive editor of the New York Times referred to the Apple tablet in a speech as the "impending Apple slate", adding fuel to the rumour fire.

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Tags: Hardware Apple iPad iTablet Conde Nast Rumours Wired

Conde Nast prepping magazine format for the Apple tablet originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:36:48 +0000

Nokia appears to be preparing to lose the Symbian operating system on its N-series range of top-end smartphones. ?In its place will be Maemo - the Linux-based operating system that powers the forthcoming N900 handset.

The claim was made by Maemo's marketing team during a London-based N900 event. If correct, it would see the company phase Symbian out gradually - some devices that use it are currently in development and they'll be released as planned. However, no new devices with Symbian on will be created.

Nokia was apparently "surprised" at the level of enthusiasm shown towards the N900 and Maemo by the development community. Symbian won't be dumped entirely - it'll still be used on the X-series and E-series range of devices. However Nokia has no doubt been stung by the fact that many reviewers, including Pocket-lint, criticised Nokia's current flagship handset - the N97 - for its interface and software.

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Tags: Mobile phones Nokia Symbian Maemo Nokia N900 Software Operating Systems Rumours

Nokia to dump Symbian from N-series? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:36:35 +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

Further to reports that Chrome OS is close to launch, we now have more confirmation that the platform isn't too far off - Google is apparently going to hold an event on 19 November that will reveal all about current progress of the OS, a broad overview of its features, and show a few demos.

Sundar Pichai, Google’s VP of product management and Matthew Papakipos, Google engineering director for Google Chrome OS will be speaking at the event, but it seems like the original rumours that the platform could launch this week were a little premature - Google says the platform will instead be launching next year.

However, it's entirely possible that some preview code will be made available so that developers can begin to explore the platform and possibility of porting their applications to it. If Chrome OS is to succeed, it'll need to have at least a little software support - however much of that is web-based.

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Tags: Software Operating Systems Chrome OS Google Rumours

Google's Chrome OS plans to be detailed originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:08:25 +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

Could Google's web-based "Chrome OS" operating system be close to launch? TechCrunch is quoting a "reliable" source who reckons that it could be here within a week.

The operating system will likely be initially rather rickety, due to the demands of creating a whopping great big pile of drivers. It's likely that all but the most common hardware will initially be unsupported. One rumour suggests that Google is creating its own hardware drivers, while another says that the company will leave it to manufacturers to make their devices work.

Google has said that Chrome OS is due to launch "in the Fall", so we're just about within that timescale still. Expect Chrome OS, if it is about to arrive, to be very firmly still a "beta", and not a Microsoft/Apple/Linux destroying monster. Yet.

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Tags: Software Operating Systems Google Chrome OS Rumours

Is Chrome OS approaching launch? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:33:59 +0000

The Apple tablet is looking more and more certain as the days pass, and this time we have a solid gold indicator that there's something tablet-y going on inside Apple. A patent filing.

The patent isn't for the tablet itself, it's for a way of making?digital ink recognition from a pen better. It's all about recognising full phrases, rather than separate ink strokes. When the full phrase has been entered, the phrase is passed over to the handwriting recognition bit, and not before.

But the word "Tablet" appears 58 times in the filing, which sounds promising and could mean that Apple wants to go with handwriting recognition and a stylus in the iPad after all, having shunned it in the iPhone.

Would you prefer to write on an Apple tablet, or use an onscreen keyboard like the iPhone? Let us know in the comments box below.

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Tags: Gadgets Internet tablets Apple Rumours Hardware Apple tablet

Apple tablet appears in patent filing originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:25:29 +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

Some images have emerged of a forthcoming firmware update for the PS3 that introduces Facebook functionality to the games console. The integration with the world's biggest social networking site is already available on the rival Xbox 360, but not on the Nintendo Wii.

Also in the images is the option to change the colour of your gamercard, as well as a new interface for looking through photos that are stored on the console. Not quite as exciting as the Facebook integration, but may be of some interest to those who just aren't satisfied with the default gamercard colours.

It's not clear exactly when the next firmware update will be issued - right now these are just screenshots found on Sony's PlayStation website. What's clear, though, is that Sony needs integration with web services - and soon - to compete with the Xbox, which is rolling out similar features at an ever-increasing rate.

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Tags: Gaming Sony PS3 PlayStation Facebook Rumours Software updates

PS3 update bringing Facebook integration originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:25:51 +0000

While our brows are still furrowed by T-Mobile's assertion that the Windows Mobile 6.5 HTC HD2 will offer Android Market apps, we're happy to report the device is due an imminent launch on Vodafone.

Those hoping to get their hot little hands on the new smartphone with its 4.3-inch multi-touch display, speedy Snapdragon processor, 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and HSDPA need look no further than Vodafone with an announcement expected within the next 24 hours.

O2 is also said to be due to offer the device via Mobiles.co.uk for a minimum of ?40 a month on a 2-year contract if you want the handset gratis, so it will be interesting to see at which price point Vodafone will be placing the high-end handset.

We will bring you all the official news - including pricing, tariffs and exact availablity - as soon as we hear it.

UPDATE: It's now official - from free on ?35 per month, 2-year contracts.

Related links:

• Feature - HTC HD2 funky features fun

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Vodafone HTC HD2 Windows Mobile Windows Phone HTC Rumours

Vodafone to offer HTC HD2 first originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:22:17 +0000

Details have emerged regarding Microsoft's closely guarded Project Natal motion gaming add-on for its Xbox 360 games console.

While all we previously really knew was that the system would hit the shelves during 2010, games site MCV has heard from industry sources that November 2010 - so in time for Christmas - is the worldwide launch timescale.

In addition, information from a "behind-closed-doors Microsoft tour of UK publishers and studios" suggests the Project Natal add-on will cost "under ?50" when sold as a standalone device, with one source even suggesting a ?30 price point.

Other snippets leaked from the meeting suggest Microsoft is planning to manufacture 5 million units for the launch and that 14 games will support the motion-controlled device as it debuts.

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Gaming Microsoft Project Natal Xbox 360 Rumours

Project Natal to cost less than £50 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:24:43 +0000

Remember the 802.11n Wi-Fi adaptor for the Xbox 360, which appeared in an FCC filing in the States back in September? Well, it appears that it's real and it's on shelves in Asda, if the above picture from Engadget is accurate.

The pic puts the price at ?50, slightly less than the current b/g version which costs ?60 (though can often be found cheaper than that). The product can't be found online from any of the big supermarket retailers, though, so it seems like this could be just the work of an enthusiastic shelf-stocker.

The peripheral enables the console to connect to faster, more stable Wi-Fi networks, which should improve your online experience if you suffer from a slightly dodgy wireless experience on your console. For it to work, however, you'll also need a Wireless-N router - something that isn't yet in many people's homes.

We'll keep you posted of the wider availability of the device. If supermarkets are getting stock then that could be very close indeed.

Tags: Gaming Peripherals Xbox 360 Wi-Fi Rumours

Xbox Wireless-n adaptor on sale now? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:24:23 +0000

That Apple will launch an iPhone nano, a smaller possibly less-featured version of its popular iPhone is a rumour that has not gone away, but new reports from sources in the Taiwan handset supply chain have recently reignited talk of such a device.

In a nutshell, it seems Apple is busy prepping a 2.8-inch (compared to the current 3.5-inch) version of the iPhone that will boast a new Qualcomm chip that will mean it will work globally on both UMTS 3G and CDMA mobile phone networks.

Said to be due to Verizon in Q3 of 2010, despite the operator's continued iPhone bashing, the iPhone nano is said to be planned for worldwide distribution too - a single handset to all carriers, regardless of the tech of their network.

AppleInsider's source, OTR Global, says that Asustek subsidiary Pegatron will build the new hybrid phone devices for Apple rather than Hon Hai, the iPhone's current manufacturer and that "Verizon and Apple have already hammered out an agreement to sell the new iPhone model within the year".

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Tags: Phones iPhone Apple Rumours Verizon Qualcomm iPhone nano

Apple to launch worldmode 2.8-inch iPhone nano originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:13:03 +0000

Could all of Google's web applications be getting an interface refresh that would make them more like Google Wave? Screenshots published by Engadget appear to suggest that may be that case, though it's not clear how far the changes are away.

In Wave, it's possible to collapse and expand modules like the navigation bar, contacts window, inbox or individual Waves, as well as minimizing them to the top of the screen to appear as a drop-down menu. The screenshots appear to depict the same setup applied to Gmail, and Google News.

Apparently "the goal is to provide a consistent experience throughout all Google Apps and blur the line between the browser and the website (e.g. drag and drop, right-click, etc)". That could imply a similar interface for Chrome OS too, as well as future Google products.

We'll bring you more on this when we hear it.

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Tags: Software Online Google Gmail Google Wave Rumours

Google apps getting more Wave-y interface? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:49:14 +0000

Apple is rumoured to be testing some prototypes of a next-generation iPhone that includes an RFID reader built in. According to Einar Rosenberg, who runs LinkedIn's Near Field Communications group, "the reaction was very positive that we can expect this in the next gen iPhone".

We're a little skeptical. Not that Apple is testing RFID in iPhones, after all - it's patented the idea, but that it'll be showing up in the next iPhone in June 2010. On the one hand, near-field communications is a growing industry, but on the other hand there's relatively few places you can use it right now (outside of the Oyster Card system on the London tube network).

Rosenberg posits that it could be used to link iPhones to Macs for syncing purposes, which is possible. We think it's more likely, though, that this is an extension of Apple's new iPod-touch based purchasing systems for Apple store staffers, and could make its way into a more enterprise-targeted product.

What do you reckon? Tell us in the comments.

Note: The embedded video above is from the Touch Project's iPhone RFID Demonstration - it's not an Apple video.

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Tags: Phones iPhone Apple Mobile phones RFID Concepts Rumours Video

VIDEO: Apple prototyping RFID iPhones? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:01:36 +0000

A new Sony Ericsson mobile phone has been revealed in rumoured online news and leaked photographs.

Said to be called the Kurara, the device is reported to be Symbian S60 5th generation smartphone.

Specs are unkown, aside from a 3.5-inch AMOLED touchscreen and an 8.1-megapixel camera.

It's thought the Kurara could sit in Sony Ericsson's range alongside the Satio, that mixes the Walkman and Cyber-shot brands together.

A February launch at the Mobile World Congress event is rumoured, but no doubt there will be more leaks between now and then, so we'll keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Sony Ercisson Rumours Sony Ericsson Kurara

Sony Ericsson Kurara revealed in rumours and spy-shots originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:04:20 +0000

With the message "We're looking forward to November 3rd. We think you should be too", Sony Ericsson has stepped up its teaser campaign for its next handset launch with a new video.

Briefly showing glimpses of the device - thought to be the "Rachael", or Xperia 3 handset, the video asks "What's next?"

The rumour mill has stepped in so far to answer that question with some spy shots and a few murmured specs, but it's not long now before all will be revealed. We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Sony Ericsson Video Rumours

VIDEO: Sony Ericsson issues Rachael teaser for 3 Nov launch originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:46:01 +0000

Google Wave may be about to open up its servers for federation, if reports from TheNextWeb are correct. If true, it would mean that businesses and corporations will imminently be able to download everything they need to run their own Google Wave server.

If that's a little confusing, then think about how companies generally run their own email servers to make in-house communication more efficient. An email server in-house (rather than on the Web) means that business will spend less on data costs and talking to people, using the same server will be lightning-fast.

Those servers can also talk to the outside world, though, like email. In that case, the communication would run at normal speed. Wave has been designed from the ground up to incorporate this "federated" nature. Lars Rasmussen, one of the inventors of the service, told TheNextWeb that the sandbox infrastructure currently available to developers will be opened up very soon.

The team has also demoed a terminal-based Wave client, and published a Wave Federation Protocol and Conversation Model. That'll allow company tech departments to begin to get their heads around what this could entail for intra-office communication.

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Tags: Software Online Google Google Wave Rumours

Google about to allow private Wave servers? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:33:21 +0000

Nokia is planning a fresh attack on the US mobile phone market, teaming up with AT&T on a new Symbian phone, a new report suggests.

The device will be developed along with Snapdragon-maker Qualcomm, who has recently joined the Symbian Foundation board.

Although the news that Nokia and Qualcomm had put past differences aside and are planning "advanced mobile devices" was announced officially in February of this year, adding iPhone operator AT&T into the mix is news.

VentureBeat says it "has heard from sources close to Nokia that the company has ... agreed to launch a phone in the US market with AT&T using a Qualcomm chip".

Back in Feb, Nokia and Qualcomm said the Symbian device they were teaming up on would offer "cutting-edge processing performance and ubiquitous mobile broadband capabilities".

Nokia has a low market share in America of around 5%, a big difference from its 38% share globally, and was caught on film recently trying to persuade consumers to opt for unlocked Nokia handsets in an attempt to up its US success.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Nokia Qualcomm AT and T Rumours Symbian Foundation

Nokia and Qualcomm working on new Symbian phone for AT&T originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:24:41 +0000

While Verizon has come clean about the Motorola Droid it's had lurking up its shirt sleeve, there's still the mystery of the HTC Droid Eris to clear up.

We know that Verizon is planning a veritable family of Droid handsets and the Eris, also known as the HTC Desire to its special friends, is tipped to be the next relative to market.

There's been whispers of low-end spec and a pocket-friendly price point of around $99, but now an image of the Hero-esque device has emerged over on PhoneArena.com.

The snap - from a tipster - comes in with the info that the Android device will get Wi-Fi and a 5-megapixel camera, but none of the slim-line slider looks of the Droid by Motorola.

If that wasn't enough to entice, HTC CEO is on record saying:

?"We've worked with Verizon for several years, but this is the first time we've been elevated to the role of core supplier", he says. "We are very excited about that opportunity".

The comment came in a recent interview with Forbes where it reports the?"company will introduce an Android phone on Verizon later this year, Chou confirmed. He says the handset, which will likely debut in the first week of November, is a sign of HTC's growing rapport with Verizon, the largest U.S. wireless operator.

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Related links:

• and via - Forbes

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Android Verizon Motorola Droid Rumours

HTC Droid Eris gets a little bit more leaked originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:55:05 +0000

It's being rumoured that Sony will be announcing a PSP-4000 in 2010. Edge is reporting that the Tokyo Game Show this year was full of whispers that the PSP Go hasn't been selling at all well, and that Sony has decided to reverse the decisions made and return to the UMD format.

The PSP Go launched with a rather large price tag, and a limited catalogue of games, as well as a poor upgrade experience. Sales rocketed 300% in the first few days that the PSP Go was on sale, but appear to have fallen off just as quickly. As a result, is Sony stepping back from its digital-only strategy?

We won't know for sure until the company makes an announcement one way or another, and Sony Computer Entertainment UK refused to comment on this story. Until then, we'd be interesting in hearing your thoughts - do you have a PSP Go? Do you miss the UMD? Or have you refused to get one thanks to your catalogue of UMD games and movies?

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Tags: Gaming PSP Sony PSP-4000 Rumours

PSP-4000 rumours return originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:48:57 +0000

Earlier in the week it was the?New York Times?supposedly spilling the beans, now it's the Sydney Morning Herald.

According to the paper in Australia, Apple is uncharacteristically talking to a number of media companies in preparation for the launch of an?Apple tablet?or Slate.

While rumours have been kicking around for some time with plenty of mock-ups created by devoted fans, the paper claims that:

"Apple has sent specifications of the device to Australian media companies in an effort to sound out whether they would be interested in delivering their content to the tablet. None would speak about the device on the record".

The news comes just a day after the executive editor of the New York Times has referred to the mythical Apple tablet in a speech as the "impending Apple slate", reigniting the smouldering rumours of the device.

Bill Keller's off-the-record speech, not supposed to be recorded and leaked to the Internet, is a business-based monologue about the future of the NYT, including a look at new digital delivery platforms.

"I'm hoping we can get the newsroom more actively involved in the challenge of delivering our best journalism in the form of Times Reader, iPhone apps, WAP, or the impending Apple slate...", Keller states, as reported by eager-eared Gawker.

The quote from Keller apparently follows reports from earlier this year that a "stealth team" from the paper met with Apple executives - as well as other content publishers - on a top-secret matter.

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Gadgets Internet tablets Apple Rumours Hardware Apple tablet

New Apple tablet rumours surface down under originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:21:53 +0000

The Apple iPhone is said to be due for a launch on Orange on 10 November, according to a report in The Times.

That Orange is to offer the iPhone - ending O2's exclusivity - is well known, but no date has yet been revealed as to when customers might hope to get the Apple mobile on the Orange network.

"The Times has learnt that Orange will start selling the handset in a little over two weeks. More than 200,000 people have pre-registered to buy an iPhone through the operator in the past month", says the paper.

The date makes sense as it's the first day after the O2-Apple 2-year exclusive agreement ends as O2 first offered the iPhone for sale in the UK on 9 November 2007.

We are waiting for official comment from Orange on the news and will update this story when we have more.

UPDATE: An Orange spokesperson says: "While we haven't yet announced a launch date, we have announced that iPhone will be available from Orange before Christmas. We look forward to announcing a launch date and pricing plans in the coming weeks".

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Tags: Phones Apple iPhone Orange Rumours

Orange to launch iPhone on 10 November originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:36:31 +0000

Some enterprising sleuths on the Applesana message boards have spotted that in the latest build of OS X there's a reference to a version 6 of the Macbook Pro. Current Pros are version 5.5. It's being suggested that these machines will feature the same Core i5 and Core i7 processors that are in the current generation of iMacs.

9to5Mac points out that in the past, "Apple has traditionally used the same processors in iMacs and high end MacBook/Powerbooks". The site claims that it's heard that there will be deliveries of new Macbook Pros to Apple stores that'll coincide with the deliveries of the new iMacs.

There's also a whole set of new dual core Intel chips that are due soon and support hyper-threading (making each core act like two). They'll also have the ability to power down one core while overclocking the other - if you're running a single, particularly intense, application for example. It's entirely possible that Apple may get early access to these chips. When we have something firmer and can report on the subject, we'll let you know.

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Tags: Hardware Macbook pro Intel Rumours Apple

Macbook Pros going quad-core? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:58:51 +0000

The executive editor of the New York Times has referred to the mythical Apple tablet in a speech as the "impending Apple slate", reigniting the smouldering rumours of the device.

Bill Keller's off-the-record speech, not supposed to be recorded and leaked to the Internet, is a business-based monologue about the future of the NYT, including a look at new digital delivery platforms.

"I'm hoping we can get the newsroom more actively involved in the challenge of delivering our best journalism in the form of Times Reader, iPhone apps, WAP, or the impending Apple slate...", Keller states, as reported by eager-eared Gawker.

The quote from Keller apparently follows reports from earlier this year that a "stealth team" from the paper met with Apple executives - as well as other content publishers - on a top-secret matter.

Only time will tell whether this is a slip of the tongue or a genuine revelation, but as recent rumours suggest a January announcement from Apple, we might not have to wait too long to find out.

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Tags: Hardware Apple Rumours iTablet iPad Tablet PCs New York Times Internet tablets Apple tablet

NYT boss caught on camera with "impending Apple slate" mention originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:51:06 +0000

Video footage of the Dell Streak - a 5-inch, touchscreen, Android-based mobile internet device, or MID - has hit the net.

Tinhte has gotten hold of one of the mythical machines and it looks like a pretty nifty internet tablet-type offering, although being much larger than a phone and much smaller than a netbook means it won't appeal to everyone.

With a 800 x 480 resolution screen, it's thought to run Android 2.0 and offer Bluetooth, 3G, a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash, a microSD card slot and Wi-Fi.

Hit play now to see a good 3 minutes of Streak action and we'll keep you posted with more news on this new device as we have it.

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Tags: Hardware Tablet PCs Dell MIDs Rumours Android Internet tablets Video

VIDEO: Dell Streak Android-based MID leaked on film originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:58:49 +0100

It's being reported that Google is planning to launch a music service imminently. A number of sources quoted by TechCrunch are saying that the company is securing content from major labels, and one source has named the offering "Google Audio".

At a time when the whole world and its dog are launching music services, it's unclear whether the music platform will be download-based like iTunes, streaming-based like Spotify and Pandora, or a hybrid of the two like Napster and Sky Songs. It'll be available to "at least" the US, but we'd predict that it'd be limited to the States for the time being - licensing of tracks in multiple territories is a real headache.

Google already has a music service in China that allows users to download tracks for free, and it has a music search engine that can be accessed by putting "music:" before a query in the search box. Songs accessed that way aren't available to listen to, however.

This is a breaking story and we'll bring you more news as it arrives.

Thanks to Alan for the tip.

Update: A little trawling has revealed that Google Audio popped up in 2006 on the company's job search boards. There were talks at the time with major labels, but nothing came of it. Could it be that Google decided the industry wasn't ready back then, and it is now?

Update II: TechCrunch is now reporting that iLike and Lala will be partnering with Google on this one, and it'll allow users to stream songs from search results. There'll also be the option to buy downloads. Seems like an odd move to us, especially as current streaming options from both iLike and Lala are very limited, but perhaps there's more to it. We'll keep you posted.

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Tags: Audio Music Online Google Music downloads Google Audio Rumours Spotify Napster Pandora Sky Microsoft

Google launching music service? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:03:09 +0100

The much-rumoured gPhone turned out to be "not one, but a thousand gPhones" when Google announced the launch of Android, its mobile phone operating system, but that is about to change.

While it's unclear what has prompted the internet giant to make the switch to offer its own hardware, design sources from within Google have revealed it is to offer an Android smartphone of its own.

"Google is working with a smartphone manufacturer to have a Google-branded phone available this year through retailers and not through telcos, according to Northeast Securities analyst Ashok Kumar, who has talked to Google's design partners about the plan", reports thestreet.com.

By offering the phone direct to consumers, rather than through an operator, it could be suggested Google's reason for a move into manufacturing could be to allow the consumer - and not the operator - to decide on features and apps, such as Google Talk, the VoIP solution.

The report suggests that the phone will use Qualcomm chips and could possibly be manufactured by HTC, a company Google appears to have good relations with that has worked with Android since day one.

The same source also reports that a Google Chrome netbook, again with Qualcomm chips and made by Qunata, will go on sale next summer.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Google Android gPhone HTC Qualcomm Rumours

Google will launch an Android gPhone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:19:38 +0100

Images of an unidentified HTC phone have been posted online, prompting speculation this could be the rumoured HTC Dragon.

The Dragon or "Zoom 2" is thought to be the Android counterpart to the recently announced high-end HD2 Windows Phone from HTC, although this device's design details don't look as slick as the HD2.

The leak, from a "ninja" source of theunlockr.com, reveals nothing about specs, but androidguys.com has stepped in with news of a Snapdragon processor, multi-touch display, 5MP camera, Wi-Fi and GPS on an Android 2.0 handset.

We will keep you posted.

Read

Related links:

• First look - HTC HD2
• Via - BGR
• And - AndroidGuys

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC Android Rumours HTC Dragon

Mystery HTC Android phone gets snapped originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:52:00 +0100

An interesting accessory to work with RIM's range of popular smartphones is being prepped - a wristwatch.

Rather than a fully-fledged watch phone, the likes of which we've seen hit the market from LG, the BlackBerry watch is designed as an accessory to use when your phone is out of reach, similar to Sony Ericsson's Bluetooth watches.

Revealed by CrackBerry's sources, the "inPulse smartwatch" as it's been dubbed, will offer a bright OLED display and is said to have been developed by a new BlackBerry accessory company from the ground up.

Due "soon" it's "designed to show you notifications and previews of messages arriving on your BlackBerry" while there's also talk of BlackBerry apps to work with the watch.

We will keep you posted.

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Related links:

• Feature - The 7 sexiest watch phones

Tags: Phones Mobile phone accessories BlackBerry RIM Watches Rumours OLED

Coming-soon BlackBerry watch revealed originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:40:05 +0100

Motorola's leaked Droid, a new Android-based handset, is getting very close to launch as Verizon - the mobile phone operator in the States that will offer the device - has begun a teaser campaign.

"All the things your phone doesn't do, Droid Does", states Verizon, in a direct attack on Apple's popular iPhone while the ad lists all the iPhone's "iDont's".

These include digs at the iPhone's lack of ability to run simultaneous apps, that fact that phone only has a 3.2-megapixel camera, lack of "open development", and no interchangeable battery.

Hit play now to see the ad/attack - the Motorola Droid is being prepped for a November launch - we will keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Motorola Android Verizon Advertising Video Rumours iPhone Apple

VIDEO: Verizon teases with "Droid does" anti-iPhone ad originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:03:45 +0100

After months of rumours, some specific info - and images - of the Motorola Droid have been leaked online by US blog Boy Genius Report.

The new phone, due to launch on the Verizon network in the States, appears to be Motorola's high-end attack on the Android market.

Running Android 2.0 the handset is said to be fast, and although just thicker than an iPhone,? thin for a QWERTY slider.

With a capacitive touch display, the Droid will come with a desktop cradle charger that will mean the phone can be used as a "multimedia station" displays weather, time, and the like.

"It's the Android device to beat, and easily the most impressive. From what we’ve been told, Google had a direct hand in the Motorola Droid", says BGR.

More detailed information is promised soon - we will keep you posted.

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Related links:

• VIDEO - Verizon teases with "Droid does" anti-iPhone ad

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Motorola Verizon Android Motorola Droid Rumours Google

Motorola Droid leaked in more detail originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:40:40 +0100

It seems as if Motorola is going all out with the robot theme for its new, and as-yet unannounced, Android phone the Motorola Droid.

Previously leaked under its production name of Sholes, the new gPhone is a QWERTY effort due to the Verizon Wireless network in the States.

US blog Boy Genius Report appears to have gotten hold of a handset and is merrily teasing away with a suitably skimpy clip. Hit play now - and more is promised soon.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Android Motorola Verizon Rumours Video Motorola Droid

VIDEO: HELLOMOTODROID teaser originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:13:58 +0100

A spy pic and a few muttered specs for the Nokia N920 - the follow-up to the recently revealed N900 - have hit the Internet.

Although the Nokia N900 is yet to hit shop shelves, the N920 is being currently talked up in the web's version of Chinese whispers, complete with the necessary spy shot to boot.

It's not really a surprise that behind closed corporate doors a phone manufacturer is already working on next-gen versions of just-announced products, but it's getting attention from the blogosphere.

Supposedly an early prototype, it's rumoured for launch with Maemo 6 on board sometime next year. Losing the QWERTY keyboard, the N920 is said to get a 4.13-inch capacitive, multi-touch screen.

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Nokia Nokia N900 Nokia N920 Rumours

Spy pic of Nokia N920 prototype revealed originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:16:41 +0100

Gizmodo is claiming to have exclusive pictures of the Barnes and Noble ebook expected to be announced on 20 October in New York.

Although details are sketchy and the images themselves are artist renders probably more at home on Yanko design, nonetheless what ebook fans will find most interesting is the inclusion of two screens.

According to the mock-up, one screen will offer an e-ink display for reading, while the other will sport a colour touchscreen panel for control.

The rumour certainly ties in with previous comments that a colour screen model was due in 2010. Although the bookseller has since confirmed that the comments by said individual weren't true, the inclusion of a colour screen for control not reading could still happen.

Pocket-lint will be at the NYC event on the 20 October.

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Gadgets ebooks Barnes and Noble eBook readers Rumours Barnes and Noble Nook

Barnes & Noble ebook pictures supposedly appear originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:41:47 +0100

It's no great secret that Spotify is expanding sideways at a rate of knots. Now that it's got its core desktop music-streaming experience locked down, it wants more little added benefits that it can turn over to premium subscribers to convince them to shell out an tenner a month.

Among those little added benefits are the removal of ads, higher audio quality, mobile applications, exclusive content, and they could soon be joined by the ability to stream music through your games console - specifically the PS3.

MusicAlly has spotted that during a presentation showing distribution strategies for the music service, a slide titled "Consumer Electronics" mentioned?games consoles, media extenders and TVs. Some of those emerged the other day in a deal with Telia, but as MusicAlly points out - we've not heard anything on the console front and the slide was illustrated with a shot of a PS3.

Meanwhile the same article also shares a rumour about a Spotify Facebook app being on the cards. It will initially revolve around expanding the Facebook sharing functionality to get more info out of Spotify (rather than just an URL and a green logo, as it currently is) but could eventually expand into a Facebook app that can play music.

We'll bring you more news of both rumours as we get it, but neither seem out of the realms of possibility.

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Tags: Audio Spotify Music Rumours Facebook PS3

Is Spotify coming to the PS3? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:58:37 +0100

There are "thousands" of iPhones running on the 3 network across the UK, a spokesperson for the operator has told Pocket-lint.

The comment came in response to our query following a report from The Telegraph that all five mobile carriers in the UK are currently offering the iPhone, whether or not they are official operator partners. ?

T-Mobile has been offering the device to high-spending customers as part of an unofficial retention plan, and? 3 is employing the same policy, albeit in very limited numbers.

"Thousands of people have chosen to use their iPhone on the 3 network", the 3 spokesperson told us, referring to iPhones that have either been unofficially unlocked - "jailbroken" - or officially unlocked and in the UK via distribution channels in Europe.

O2 is currently the only official Apple iPhone partner in the UK, but is soon to be joined by T-Mobile merger partner Orange this year and Vodafone in 2010.

Tags: Phones iPhone 3 O2 Orange Vodafone T-Mobile Rumours Apple

"Thousands" of iPhones on 3 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:59:02 +0100

The BlackBerry Storm 2 will launch on Verizon wireless in the States some time this week, reports The New York Times.

This latest news, still as-yet unconfirmed by BlackBerry maker RIM, follows the recent news Pocket-lint brought you that Carphone Warehouse was prepping to offer the touchscreen phone here in the UK.

In the UK it's Vodafone that will offer the new and improved Storm 2, as it did the original, a situation echoed in the US with Verizon confirmed for the sequel handset after it shifted around a million of the first-gen model.

The New York Times' report suggests that the Storm 2 will still offer a SurePress clickable touchscreen, as the Storm did, a feature that has been improved on the next-gen device, rather than dropped, as had been reported. From the NYT:

"This week, Verizon and RIM are trying again with a Storm do-over, the Storm 2. Among its many improvements, the new phone gives the user the sensation of pushing a physical button when pressing a number on the glass touch screen".

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones BlackBerry RIM Verizon Storm 2 Rumours

BlackBerry Storm 2 to launch on Verizon this week originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:15:40 +0100

Those of you lucky enough to both be in the Google Wave preview and own an iPhone or Android device might be interested to hear that the service apparently works on mobile.

If you visit wave.google.com in your mobile browser, you should find an interface that allows you to view and select waves, different contacts, or view specific things. We tested this ourselves, and got a big fat "Could not open page" on both Android and iPhone, so we can't confirm this development ourselves, but TechCrunch is reporting it as fact.

More interestingly, if - on the iPhone - you save the bookmark to your home screen and re-launch it, then you get a version of the app that doesn't have the Safari functions around it. Instead, it appears full-screen, like a regular app would. This is a feature that was made available a year ago in the 2.1 iPhone update.

One of the biggest issues with Wave in its current state is that you can't access it when you're not sat at your computer, making it considerably less useful as a communications tool. A Wave app for Android can't be too far off, but it'll be interesting to see whether Google sticks with the web app for the iPhone, after its recent difficulties getting its Latitude app approved.

Does it work for you on your Android handset or iPhone? Let us know in the comments.

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Tags: Phones Software Google Google Wave iPhone Android Rumours

Google Wave working on iPhone and Android? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 11:15:04 +0100

It seems HTC's new HD2, a high-end Windows Mobile 6.5 smartphone, will be getting a suitably high-end price tag.

UK online retailer Clove currently has the device up for pre-order priced at ?540 for a SIM-free handset. Clove estimates the shipping date for the device as Wednesday 11 November in the UK.

All HTC has officially revealed is that "the HTC HD2 will be available later this month with selected operators across Europe, before rolling out to other regions in the coming months".

With initial impressions positive, the HTC HD2 boasts a high-res, 4.3-inch display, HTC's Sense UI, 1GHz Snapdragon processor, 5-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, GPS and sensors galore.

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Related links:

• VIDEO - HTC HD2 shown off in promo
• Via - Engadget

Tags: Phones Mobile phones HTC HTC HD2 Clove Rumours

UK retailer Clove dates and prices HTC HD2 originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:54:17 +0100

It seems that James Dyson has got something up his sleeve, and with a global launch planned for tomorrow, a teaser has hit the Internet.

Hitting play on the clip above is your best way to get an idea of the mysterious video that shows a range of seemingly ordinary consumer types react in an astounded fashion to something they are shown.

There are "wows", "whoas", "what is that?" and "oh my goshes" galore as the device makes a slight humming noise in the background. One good guess would be the blade-less fan design the company recently patented.

A bleeped out question sounds very much like "where are the buttons?" but if you spot anything else that could be a clue, or have a guess as to what it could be, let us know in comments and when we bring you the official news tomorrow we'll see just who was closest.

Tags: Gadgets Dyson Home And Kitchen Video Rumours Dyson Air Multiplier

VIDEO: Dyson's mysterious teaser originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:33:35 +0100

Twitter has rubbished reports that it would soon be letting its users post video tweets, news that would have major implications for the existing Twitter clients and services market.

The Telegraph reported that as an attempt to stay at the cutting edge of social networking, instead of using services such as Twideo and Tweetube, that offer hyperlinks to videos in tweets, "live video-tweeting" was coming soon.

"Twitter's founders hope by adding live video-tweeting it will help boost its prominence as a fashionable social-networking tool again", said the report.

However, Twitter founder Biz Stone has replied direct to an enquiry on the topic from social media site Mashable, stating, in no uncertain terms:

"Haven't read the piece but no video hosting. 140 characters of text including spaces. You know the drill!"

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Tags: Software Online Twitter Rumours

Live video-tweeting report debunked originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:11:04 +0100

Following the news that in Sweden, music streaming service du jour Spotify is to team up with operator Telia on mobile phones and more, more info on the hardware we can expect has now been revealed.

The work-in-progress dedicated Spotify phone revealed to Pocket-lint by Telia's head of mobility services, Erik Hallberg, is to be produced by Hutchison-Whampoa-owned INQ.

So reports TechCrunch, stating "a source with knowledge of the deal tells us that London, UK based INQ is developing the Spotify-branded phone".

It's a logical step - INQ already makes handsets tailored to various Web 2.0 services, with its "Facebook phone", Skype phones and now a Twitter handset from the company that prides itself on integrating such services into phones.

Although a Telia launch seems logical as a first step, "the phone is in the design stage right now, and there are plans, we're told, to roll it out to all markets via partnerships with various carriers", says TechCrunch.

Here in the UK, INQ's press office has no comment on the news.

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Tags: Phones Inq Spotify Mobile phones Rumours Telia Audio

INQ to make Spotify phone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:19:05 +0100

It's being reported that Twitter is currently in mega-money talks with Microsoft and Google, discussing using Twitter content in searches separately with each search giant.

All Things D reports: "According to sources familiar with the situation - Twitter is in advanced talks with Microsoft and Google separately about striking data-mining deals, in which the companies would license a full feed from the microblogging service that could then be integrated into the results of their competing search engines".

Microsoft's Bing already encompasses some Twitter content in its results while Google recently announced Hot Trends that offers real-time results for popular search terms, so it's a little unclear at this stage what the talks may result in.

All Thing D's sources say "a number of scenarios are being discussed to compensate Twitter for its huge and potentially valuable trove of real-time and content-sharing information, generated from the data stream of billions of tweets from its 54 million monthly users".

We will keep you posted.

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Tags: Software Websites Twitter Google Microsoft Biz Rumours Search engines Social networking

Twitter in talks with Microsoft, Google originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:00:50 +0100

Dell is to launch a smartphone in the US on AT&T early next year according to the WSJ.

Citing "People briefed on the plans" the newspaper is claiming that the new handset will be powered by Google's Android handset, come with a touchscreen display and sport a "tiny camera".

"The phone, like Apple Inc.'s iPhone, has a touch screen instead of a keypad as well as a tiny camera, these people said. Dell's AT&T phone is similar to a device Dell showed in China in August, but has some different features, they said".

If true it would be Dell's first foray into the smartphone market in the US, however not its first foray into a portable PDA device.

Up until 2005, Dell offered a range of touchscreen organisers under the "x" moniker although later shut down the product line over lack of sales.?

The news follows rumours in August of a?Pre-like Dell smartphone running Android which turned up on a Chinese PDA?site.

Earlier on Wednesday?Dell teased with a brief showing of the new Adamo XPS in the flesh.

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Tags: Phones Mobile phones Dell AT and T Android Rumours

Dell AT and T powered Android smartphone heading to US? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 21:24:55 +0100

Google appears to be experimenting with a new tool that could make it easier to swap data between various different Google products. It's called Cloudboard and is described on an internal feedback form from the company as a "server-side clipboard for Google Apps".

It also provides some examples of how Cloudboard would be used - copying a cell range from a spreadsheet to a word processor, creating an HTML table, copying multiple images from Picasa web albums, copying YouTube videos, copying events from Google calendar to Docs or GMail, pasting images into image search and copying maps into Google docs.

If this technology sees the light of day then it could set new standards for interoperability on the Web. For it to really catch on, however, it'd need to be opened up so that third parties can hook into it too. We wouldn't bet against Google doing such a thing.

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Related links:

• News - Google doodle celebrates barcode anniversary

Tags: Software Online Google Cloudboard Rumours

Google testing online clipboard? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:11:48 +0100

It's being reported that passwords for "thousands" of Hotmail accounts have leaked out online. An anonymous user posted details of over 10,000 accounts with user names running from A to B on a site called PasteBin, which is used by developers to share small chunks of code.

The details have been removed, but they covered @hotmail.com, @msn.com and @live.com accounts mostly based in Europe, according to Neowin, which says it saw a chunk of the list that was posted. It's believed that the passwords originate from phishing scams.

Given that the list covers just A and B, there's a good chance that C, D, E, etc lists exist too. If you're a Hotmail user, then it might be a good idea to go change your password, especially if you use it as your main email account. You should be changing it regularly, y'know.

Update: Google has confirmed that this problem is industry-wide.

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Related links:

• News - Laptops hacked by repair technicians

Tags: Software Online Email Hotmail Microsoft Hackers Rumours

Hotmail passwords leaked out online? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:13:35 +0100

Apple's much-rumoured iTablet, or iPad as the most recent rumours have dubbed it, could get a highly advanced touchscreen.

A new patent application revealed by AppleInsider describes plans for a multi-touch surface that could work with two full hands and distinguish between palms and individual fingers for typing and gestures, with activities done with more than one finger referred to as "chords".

Filed in June this year, Apple says the tech in the patent would make for "unprecedented integration of typing, resting, pointing, scrolling, 3D manipulation, and handwriting into a versatile, ergonomic computer input device".

Adding to the iPad hype, with the ability to detect all ten digits, the device that uses such a screen would have to be large enough to support two hands, so arguably of tablet, rather than phone, dimensions.

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Related links:

• News - Fresh Apple tablet rumours claim the iPad is due on 19 January

Tags: Hardware Apple Tablet PCs iTablet iPad Rumours Patents Concepts

Apple patents advanced multi-touch display originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 11:52:34 +0100

O2 has run out of the iPhone 3GS, according to reports. Ahead of the operator losing exclusivity of the high-end smartphone, stock issues have meant there are none to be sold.

An O2 spokesperson told the Telegraph: ?We continue to see extremely high levels of demand for the iPhone which means it comes in and out of stock very quickly and will be why the website hasn't had any since Monday".

The O2 website states that both black and white iPhone 3GS are "not currently available" for contract or PAYG customers while the Telegraph suggests the majority of O2 shops across the UK have been without any of the 3GS models for the last 2 weeks.

Some are suggesting that the shortage may be due to Apple diverting stock to Orange ahead of the iPhone sales debut on that network, but back in July, Apple's CFO admitted: ?We are currently unable to make enough iPhone 3GS to meet robust demand and we are working to address this".

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Tags: Phones iPhone O2 Apple Orange Rumours

O2 runs out of the iPhone 3GS originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:43:12 +0100

The Kindle's UK launch has been a much talked-up affair, but "authoritative sources" are now backing up previous whispers that the device will debut in October.

Those sources, speaking to The Bookseller, suggest the Kindle's arrival to the UK market will be announced next week, ahead of the Frankfurt book fair, with consumer availability during October.

The Bookseller reports a source stating: "The key things they needed to tie up have been tied up", suggesting a wireless operator deal has been done in the UK after Qualcomm has developed a wireless solution that would work over here.

Whether Amazon will launch both the Kindle 2 and the larger and more expensive Kindle DX is yet to be seen. In the States the 6-inch Kindle 2 is priced at $299 which works out as around ?187, which could mean a ?199 price tag is likely here.

Amazon has not revealed sales figures for the Kindle, but it appears to be a popular product and partly responsible for the surge of the new ebook readers hitting the market.

Although the Kindle was far from the first - and some would argue far from the best - such device around, it's thought Amazon's Apple-like bundled offering of hardware and content has seen greater consumer interest in ebook readers in the US.

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Related links:

• News - Amazon Kindle 2 launches

Tags: Gadgets Kindle eBook readers Amazon Rumours

Amazon to make UK Kindle announcement next week originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:20:45 +0100

The most recent Apple tablet rumours to hit pegged the 9.6-inch device at $800 with a February launch.

Now iLounge's "reliable" Apple source - that correctly predicted the firth-gen nano and iPhone 3GS - has come up with fresh data.

According to iLounge, who dubs the device the "iPad", the latest version of three prototypes has a 10.7-inch screen, runs the iPhone OS and looks like a big iPhone 3G with a curved back.

The source suggests it will come in two versions - with and without 3G - but both models will get 480 x 320 pixel displays.

Fitting in with Apple's no-thanks stance on netbooks, iLounge says it is not meant as a netbook competitor but a media player with "light communications" abilities:

"It is designed to expand the iPhone and iPod touch media concept to its next potential level: as a slate-like replacement for books and magazines, plus all of the media, gaming, app, and web functionality of the iPhone and iPod touch", states the site.

Said to be awaiting "final green light" from Apple boss Steve jobs - with an estimated 80% chance of success - iLounge predicts a 19 January annoucement with some serious hype before a retail debut in the summer.

We will keep you posted.

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Related links:

• News - $800 9.6-inch Apple tablet to launch in February

Tags: Hardware Apple Rumours Tablet PCs PMPs iPhone iTablet iPad Apple tablet

Fresh Apple tablet rumours claim the iPad is due on 19 January originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:36:39 +0100

Apple could be about to revamp its Apple TV offering with a snazzy new remote control, a fresh leak suggests.

From The Boy Genius Report blog comes this image of what looks like a touchscreen remote control for the home cinema product.

Very much in the realms of rumour at this stage, BGR says the image was submitted by an Apple tipster who accurately predicted recent iTunes 9 features.

"We're told it's a 'product mockup that may coincide with the launch of a revised Apple TV'", says BGR.

Apple recently knocked around $100 of its current Apple TV product, and slimmed the range down to just one model, leading to suggestions that a revamp is imminent.

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Related links:

• News - Apple knocks $100 off the price of Apple TV

Tags: Home Cinema Apple Apple TV Remote controls Rumours Hardware

Leaked pic of touchscreen Apple TV remote emerges originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:32:21 +0100

Turns out that Vodafone will be getting their hands on the iPhone too. The company joins Orange, who recently announced that they'd be breaking O2's exclusive and also selling the device. A deal is understood to have been signed on the evening of 28 September.

The news was first rumoured by the Telegraph, but was confirmed to Pocket-lint by Vodafone's press office, who told us that the handset would be arriving in early 2010. Beginning today, Vodafone customers will be able to register their interest in the 3G and 3GS at vodafone.co.uk/iphone.

Vodafone's chief executive, Vittorio Colao, has said that the key reason why his company lost 160,000 subscribers in the last quarter was that he didn't have an iPhone to sell them. Vodafone's most juicy exclusive over the last year has been the Android-equipped HTC Magic.

Analysts suspect that more carriers offering the handset will lead to prices coming crashing down. Steven Hartley, analyst at technology research house Ovum, said: "There will be a price war. Research shows that in every country where there is more than one operator selling it, it is cheaper".

He expects the contracts to come down by about ?5 per month, shaving ?120 off the price of the handset when spread over a 2-year contract. The Telegraph also claims that Virgin Mobile are "desperate" to get their hands on the iPhone, too.

We'll keep you posted of pricing and contract details as soon as they're announced.

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Related links:

• News - iPhone 3GS coming to Orange UK
• Via - the Telegraph

Tags: Phones Mobile phones Vodafone Orange O2 iPhone Apple Biz Rumours

iPhone coming to Vodafone originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:09:21 +0100

It's rumoured that the next Xbox 360 update will be arriving in October. The October issue of Sky Magazine says that the Sky Player will be avaialble to download on the console, and a web address that the publication links to also features "OCT" in the url.

The service was announced earlier in the year, but hasn't been available until now. To use it, you'll need two active subscriptions - one for Xbox Live Gold membership, costing ?40 per year, and one for Sky Player - ?15 per month, which is ?180 for a year. Is on-demand TV on your Xbox worth ?220 per year to you?

Along with Sky Player, it's expected that the already-announced Facebook and Twitter integration (which also require Xbox Live Gold) will be included in the update. We'll bring you more news of the Dashboard refresh when it's officially announced.

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Related links:

• News - Sky Player comes to Xbox 360
• Link - Sky Player on Xbox 360 coming soon

Tags: Gaming Xbox 360 Microsoft Sky Home Cinema Twitter Facebook Rumours

Sky Player coming to Xbox 360 in October? originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 17:31:04 +0100

Rumours of a new BlackBerry handset that offers a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, as well as a touchscreen display, have emerged.

The Storm 3, BlackBerry 9900 or "Mr T" as the device is apparently codenamed within RIM, is described as is "a QWERTY keyboard slider the size of a Storm with a full touchscreen".

The only other info the report provides about the new phone is that the ON/OFF and SEND/CANCEL buttons will be touch-sensitive and on the screen.

The BlackBerry Storm 2 is expected to launch in both America and the UK before the end of the year, suggesting that Mr T, if all true, is more likely for 2010.

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Related links:

• Via - BerryReporter
• And - Electronista

Tags: Phones Mobile phones BlackBerry RIM Rumours Mr T

Touchscreen BlackBerry with sliding QWERTY keyboard rumoured originally appeared on http://www.pocket-lint.com on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 12:51:11 +0100