Motorola PHOTON 4G, Exclusively from Sprint, Available this Sunday

Motorola PHOTON 4G

Beginning this Sunday, July 31 consumers will be able to enjoy Sprint’s first International 4G handset that early reviewers are buzzing about. Power users, business owners, Web browsers and social networkers alike, can get their hands on Motorola PHOTON 4G starting this Sunday for $199.99 with a new two-year service agreement or eligible upgrade in all Sprint channels, including Sprint.com, 1-800-SPRINT1 and national retail partners including Radio Shack and Best Buy.

Android Innovation with International Capabilities

 

Sprint and Motorola have taken wireless innovation to a new level yet again with Sprint’s first 1GHz dual-core NVIDIA® Tegra 2 processor smartphone. Motorola PHOTON 4G provides on-the-go users with an edge in managing their lives, from anywhere in the world. Motorola PHOTON 4G offers the perfect blend between personal and business needs and boasts enterprise quality security for Android, international GSM capabilities, a 4.3-inch QHD display, dual cameras and a kickstand for hands free viewing.

 

Robust Features

 

Built with Android 2.3 Gingerbread, and equipped with a powerful dual-core processor, Motorola PHOTON 4G, combined with Sprint’s 4G network, lets users browse, download and multitask at maximum speeds to support their busy lifestyles. Motorola PHOTON 4G provides an array of versatile tools, such as the Motorola webtop application, allowing users to access and create content from a larger screen while connected to a Motorola HD Station dock (available for purchase at device launch).

 

Sprint ID-enabled

 

Motorola PHOTON 4G is Sprint’s seventh Sprint ID-capable device. Sprint ID delivers a variety of apps, widgets, shortcuts, ringtones and wallpapers – designed to meet users’ specific mobile needs and interests – in a few simple clicks. Sprint ID packs are free to download with an Everything Data plan, and users can download five at once – including Professional (features tools to help busy professionals with travel plans, organization, communication), Green (tips to live a greener lifestyle), MTV Music ID (mobile music experience), HSN (shopping on the go) and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series ID Pack. To see all Sprint ID packs, visit www.sprint.com/sprintid.

 

Skype 5.5 for Windows Update

Skype 5.5

Skype team is pleased to announce that Skype 5.5 for Windows is now available for download. Theye have made some updates from the beta version of Skype 5.5 for Windows, which launched in June, and recommend that you update now.

The Skype 5.5 for Windows update comes with a deeper Facebook integration. Without having to leave Skype, you can check out when your Facebook friends are online and instant message with them from the new Facebook Contacts Tab (located in between the Skype and Recent Contacts tabs). You can also view and update your Facebook status and even view comments or ‘like’ posts from your Facebook Wall, directly from Skype Home.

 

They have also made a number of updates to make your Skype calls on Windows even better. They’ve improved the controls for video and group video calls for Windows, enhanced video call reliability and made several design changes to improve your overall Skype experience.

 

Plus for all you emoticon fanatics, the Skype emoticons have received an update, with smoother animations that stand out. They are also introducing a few new Skype emoticons to use when words fail you.

 

Download Skype 5.5 for Windows now. Hit us up on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and let us know which emoticon is your favorite. You can also leave us feedback on the Skype 5.5 for Windows update below in the comments section.

 

AT&T announces throttling plans, gently reminds us why the T-Mobile acquisition is so great

AT&T today officially confirmed what so many had expected for some time now: the carrier will be throttling select users' unlimited data plans. The move, which takes effect on October 1st, is a response to a "serious wireless spectrum crunch," according to a message issued today. The changes will not affect most customers, according to the company, primarily targeting those who fall within the top five percent of heavy users in a given billing cycle. Once the new period begins, speeds will be restored. Even with this new plan in place, however, the company says that the spectrum problems still won't be resolved -- it does have a simple solution, however, explaining that "nothing short of completing the T-Mobile merger will provide additional spectrum capacity to address these near term challenges." Full text after the break.

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An Update for Our Smartphone Customers With Unlimited Data Plans

Like other wireless companies, we're taking steps to manage exploding demand for mobile data. Many experts agree the country is facing a serious wireless spectrum crunch. We're responding on many levels, including investing billions in our wireless network this year and working to acquire additional network capacity. We're also taking additional, more immediate measures to help address network congestion.

One new measure is a step that may reduce the data throughput speed experienced by a very small minority of smartphone customers who are on unlimited plans - those whose extraordinary level of data usage puts them in the top 5 percent of our heaviest data users in a billing period. In fact, these customers on average use 12 times more data than the average of all other smartphone data customers. This step will not apply to our 15 million smartphone customers on a tiered data plan or the vast majority of smartphone customers who still have unlimited data plans.

Starting October 1, smartphone customers with unlimited data plans may experience reduced speeds once their usage in a billing cycle reaches the level that puts them among the top 5 percent of heaviest data users. These customers can still use unlimited data and their speeds will be restored with the start of the next billing cycle. Before you are affected, we will provide multiple notices, including a grace period.

This change will never impact the vast majority of our customers, and is designed to create a better service experience for all.

The amount of data usage of our top 5 percent of heaviest users varies from month to month, based on the usage of others and the ever-increasing demand for mobile broadband services. To rank among the top 5 percent, you have to use an extraordinary amount of data in a single billing period.

There will be no changes for the vast majority of customers. It's not how much time you spend using your device, it's what you do with it. You can send or receive thousands of emails, surf thousands of Web pages and watch hours of streaming video every month and not be in the top 5 percent of data users.

Typically what puts someone in the top 5 percent is streaming very large amounts of video and music daily over the wireless network, not Wi-Fi. Streaming video apps, remote web camera apps, sending large data files (like video) and some online gaming are examples of applications that can use data quickly. Using Wi-Fi doesn't create wireless network congestion or count toward your wireless data usage. AT&T smartphone customers have unlimited access to our entire Wi-Fi network, with more than 26,000 hotspots, at no additional cost. They can also use Wi-Fi at home and in the office.

The bottom line is our customers have options. They can choose to stay on their unlimited plans and use unlimited amounts of data, but may experience reduced speeds at some point if they are an extraordinarily heavy data user. If speed is more important, they may wish to switch to a tiered usage plan, where customers can pay for more data if they need it and will not see reduced speeds.

But even as we pursue this additional measure, it will not solve our spectrum shortage and network capacity issues. Nothing short of completing the T-Mobile merger will provide additional spectrum capacity to address these near term challenges.

Global Handset Shipments Reach 361 Million Units in Q2 2011

According to the latest research from Strategy Analytics, global handset shipments grew 13 percent annually to reach 361 million units in the second quarter of 2011. Nokia slipped to a level not seen since 1999, while Apple closed the gap on LG for third position.

Alex Spektor, Senior Analyst at Strategy Analytics, said, “Despite multiple debt crises and economic volatility worldwide, global handset shipments grew 13 percent annually to reach 361.1 million units in Q2 2011. Apple was a star performer during the quarter, as it shipped a record 20.3 million units and closed the global market share gap with LG to its lowest ever level of just over one point. LG’s 3G smartphone volumes are expanding fast but the Korean vendor is struggling to grow in the 2G feature phone and basic phone sub-categories.”

Sprint Motorola Photon 4G Now for Sale Online

Sprint has overdone itself again in offering the Motorola Photon 4G to customers. The 4G gaming phone is now for sale online, which may be sold on stores over the weekend, as anticipated by many phone fans out there. Claiming to be a “gaming guru’s weapon of choice”, Sprint brags the Photon 4G to perform so well with specs such as a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual-core processor, a crisp and colorful 4.3-inch qHD touch screen, everything being tasteful on Android Gingerbread.

Experience is also improved with system memory of 1 GB RAM, 2 GB ROM, with internal storage of 16GB, which can be expanded of up to an additional 32GB via a MicroSD slot, that assures performance. It also has a rear 8-megapixel camera, which has an LED-flash, and has additional features such as autofocus, geo-tagging, image stabilization, and face detection. It can connect via Bluetooth 2.1 for devices and on networks through LTE, WiFi, and on WiMax. All these can be yours for $199.99 with a 2-year contract.

Source: Engadget Mobile

'Official-looking' pic of white Galaxy S II leaks, unicorns right around the corner

Albino Nexus S, meet your better specced, bleached out, dual-core nemesis -- the mythical white Samsung Galaxy S II. The leaked snap is certainly timely, coming in only one day after a UK retailer promised the colorless beast would go on sale August 15th. We can't vouch for that, but we do know US peeps can now sign-up for "more info" on Sammy's website, so stateside GSII fans should be hearing more from the company soon. Will word come of the LTE-toting, ivory dream phone we've been lusting after? Probably not, but getting the baddest black Android on the planet is still pretty darn good.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini measures up to FCC scrutiny

We've already had some hands-on time with Sony Ericsson's pint-sized Xperia Mini, and now it's the FCC's turn. The Android-packing smartphone got measured, prodded, and generally taken apart by the commission. The device, which the company is calling the "world's smallest Android powered HD video smartphone," is certainly tiny, but lacks the keyboard found on the similarly named Xperia Mini Pro, which also recently made its way through the FCC. Both are currently listed as "coming soon" on SE's site.

Xperia Mini hits the FCC

amaROCKS Group, Business Education company Releases 8″ New Android 2.2 Tablet

amaROCKS MLearnPad

amaROCKS Group; a developer of cutting-edge business education and training, proudly announces the MLearnPad, the company’s first feature-packed Android 2.2 powered mobile learning tablet. MLearnPad’s compact design encompasses a vibrant 8″ color LCD touch screen, with a 4GB of internal storage, and up to 32GB of expandable storage via micro SD, a powerful Freescale ARM Cortex – A8 processor, and 512 MB of RAM.  Boasting a feature set unparalleled in its class, MLearnPad comes standard with blazing fast Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 1.3MP webcam, and USB.

MLearnPad which was recently approved by US FCC comes with Android 2.2, which means it has support for Adobe Flash Player, giving the course participants unbridled access to the learning content.  The multi-tasking MLearnPad also comes with eReader, e-mail, SKYPE, MSN, YAHOO MESSENGER, FACEBOOK, OFFICE Suite, 3D games support, Built-in Monophonic Recording and many more.

 

The introduction of the MLearnPad was integrated and tested with more than 300 Soft Skills and Enterprise Business Skills courses represents a hugely innovative step forward in the evolution of the online training industry. It has quite literally made it possible to take an entire curriculum, classroom, support staff, library and access it anywhere, anytime, in a totally user friendly format that is no bigger than an ordinary text book, and is available absolutely free of charge when course participant enroll for Professional or Pro-Diploma certificate course or at discounted price when they buy a single course(s).

 

In today’s fast paced environment, much of business learner’s time is lost sitting on commuter trains and buses, waiting in line, sitting in waiting rooms and “killing” time between meetings and in coffee shops.  The MLearnPad makes it possible for business learners to invest all this down time in their future.  In fact, anywhere business learners have access to WIFI can now be their own office, private classroom, library or study hall.

 

MLearnPad will keep business learners connected and engaged whether they are at home, at office, in flight, or at the neighborhood coffee shop.  Surf the web, download apps, and check email, stream videos and music, or share online status with friends and family ANYWHERE ANYTIME at their own pace.

 

Imagine being able to participate in LIVEeCLASS while ride the train to the office, review lessons while waiting at doctor’s office, write an assignment in the coffee shop, between meetings access webinar tutorials, while enjoy lunch at the food court review essay with course facilitator.

 

If business learners have access to WIFI, they literally have access to an entire world of training opportunities and support services through this revolutionary tool.

 

London Public Transportation Added to Google Maps

Google announced that starting today, you can get public transport directions for London within Google Maps, including Google Maps for mobile on iOS, Blackberry and Android-powered devices. One of Europe’s largest metropolitan areas, London is a major destination for both business travelers and tourists. More than 1 billion passengers are serviced by Transport for London (TfL) every year across over 18,000 bus stops and over 250 Underground stations.

For example if you’re at Trafalgar Square, and want to visit Madame Tussauds; with a simple directions search, you’ll see all the possible public transport connections. In Maps, click “Get directions” in the left-hand panel, and then the train icon to see public transport directions. Enter your departure location next to A, and your destination next to B. These can be either street addresses or names of popular places, businesses or restaurants. When you’re done, click the “Get directions” button and suggestions for your trip will appear below.

Public transport directions are available on both Google Maps and Google Maps for mobile, so you always have access to a trip planner.

BenQ’s M23 1080p Full HD Camcorder –The Ultimate Pocket-Sized Night Documenter

BenQ 1080p Full HD camcorder, BenQ HD camcorder, BenQ M23

Internationally-renowned provider of digital lifestyle innovations, BenQ, announces today the launch of their latest 1080p Full HD camcorder – the BenQ M23. Designed for young adults and college students that enjoy documenting snippets of their lives to share with others, the pocket-sized M23 comes equipped with night time recording functions, and other impressive features that make M23 one of a must-have in their lives.

M23 is made for those who have a passion for recording at night. With the built-in LED torch and night mode function, the M23 is capable of capturing clear, detailed video in low-light environments. The night mode automatically set the right settings when required and the LED torch can brighten objects up to 1-meter in distance to illuminate the shot and record clear images in the dimmest of backgrounds. Taking quality shots of the nightscape or capturing memories of friends in the nightclubs has never been easier.

 

Distant subjects are easily recorded with the M23’s 5x optical zoom. No more compromising on image quality when zooming in on distant subject using software-based digital zoom. The 5x optical zoom with a 5MP CMOS sensor captures shots in clear detail from distance.

 

This portable and easy-to-carry 1080p Full HD video camera also has extra storage capacity and added flexibility with two SD card slots. M23 will automatically switch to the secondary storage when one is full, doubling your capacity. Furthermore, the Touch Exposure allows users to touch on the area that needs adjustments on the 3” touch screen display, exposure levels will then be automatically set to the optimum level. Another smart feature for the M23 is the Motion detection, this feature initiates filming as soon as the subject moves, perfect when setting up a scene without additional person’s assistance.

 

The BenQ M23 1080p Full HD camcorder comes in metallic “Dark Grey” and will be available in August 2011. For more information, please visit www.BenQ.com

 

Android Market gets Tiled!

There is an update for everyone who has been in the Android Market for quite a while, feeling that something new should happen. The Android Market will have its facelift, but will not just focus on the appearance. In fact, it will also include other products that can be accessed on the market, aside from the usual app selection that we have always been comfortable with. It will now present other items for download such as eBooks, and even Movies.

Getting back on the looks, one of the major changes that you will notice is that it will now be tiled! It may not have the feel of a Windows Mobile UI, but it is still worth the look and the experience. The update will come through updates on the market, which no one knows when exactly, or techie guys can just download the APK file available all over the net to avoid the long wait.

Source: Engadget

Nielsen: Android accounts for 39 percent of smartphones in the US, Apple is the top device maker

Nielsen's just released a study confirming what some other studies have already concluded -- that Android devices account for the single largest swath of smartphone users in the US, with 39 percent OS share as of the second quarter. That compares with 28 percent for iOS, although Apple still reigns as the country's top-selling device maker. Simply put, that's a reflection of the fact that Apple is the only outfit churning out iOS devices, whereas a bevy of companies led by HTC, Motorola, and Samsung have helped make Android the dominant OS in the states. And let's not forget about RIM, another hardware / software shop, which still commands a 20 percent chunk of the market. Rounding out the list, Windows Phone and Windows Mobile account for nine percent, largely thanks to sales of HTC handsets, while webOS and Symbian each eked out two percent. At this point we don't doubt that Android is the most ubiquitous mobile operating system this side of the Atlantic, although it's worth noting that Nielsen based its results on a sample of roughly 20,000 people -- all of whom are postpaid subscribers.

Motorola Solutions hits $2.1 billion in sales for Q2

All said, Q2 wasn't such a bad one for the black logoed Motorola Solutions, with sales of $2.1 billion, up six percent from this time last year. That number includes $1.3 billion for government sales and $747 million for enterprise, up four and 11 percent over last year, respectively. Motorola Solutions, Inc. (MSI to its friends) was formed earlier this year, when the tech company split in two. Solutions specializes in things like barcode scanners and two-way radios, while Motorola Mobility Holdings deals with the more familiar (to us, at least) smartphone and Xoom-y side of things.

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Motorola Solutions Reports Second-Quarter Results

Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: MSI) announced today its second-quarter 2011 results highlighted by sales of $2.1 billion, up 6 percent from the second quarter of 2010 and driven by solid demand across both its Government and Enterprise segments.

In addition, the company announced today that its board of directors has authorized the initiation of a regular quarterly dividend of $0.22 per outstanding share of the company's common stock. The first dividend will be payable on Oct. 14, 2011, to shareholders of record at the close of business on Sept. 15, 2011. As part of a broader return of capital plan, the company's board has authorized a share repurchase program of up to $2.0 billion through the end of 2012. The company may repurchase shares from time to time in the open market or in other privately negotiated transactions, subject to market conditions.

Greg Brown, chairman and CEO of Motorola Solutions, said: "Our solid revenue growth and improved operating leverage further demonstrate the strength of our business. Based on this performance, we have raised our full year outlook. Additionally, the dividend and share repurchase program reinforce our commitment to return capital to shareholders while maintaining strategic flexibility."

GAAP operating earnings in the second quarter of 2011 were $170 million or 8 percent of sales, compared to $161 million or 8 percent of sales in the second quarter of 2010. GAAP earnings per share from continuing operations** were $0.17, compared to $0.01 in the second quarter of 2010.

Non-GAAP*** operating earnings in the second quarter of 2011 were $315 million or 15 percent of sales, compared to $267 million or 14 percent of sales in the second quarter of 2010. Non-GAAP earnings per share from continuing operations were $0.57, compared to $0.37 in the second quarter of 2010. Non-GAAP financial information excludes after-tax benefits of approximately $0.40 per diluted share related to stock-based compensation expense, intangible assets amortization expense and highlighted items. Details on these Non-GAAP adjustments and the use of Non-GAAP measures are included later in this press release.

During the second quarter of 2011, the company generated $102 million in operating cash flow from continuing operations. The company also retired $540 million in debt and ended the quarter with total cash* of $6.7 billion.

Government segment sales were $1.3 billion, up 4 percent from the year-ago quarter. GAAP operating earnings were $111 million or 8 percent of sales compared to $117 million or 9 percent of sales in the year-ago quarter. Non-GAAP operating earnings were $174 million or 13 percent of sales compared to $158 million or 13 percent of sales in the year-ago quarter.

Government highlights:

Received $56 million award to implement a 700 MHz LTE Broadband Data System for the Mississippi Wireless Communication Commission
Secured multi-million dollar public safety contracts in Bucks County, Pennsylvania; Fort Worth, Texas; Lower Saxony, Germany and Shenzhen, China
Recognized for APX 7000XE P25 portable radio product design with Gold International Design Excellence Award (IDEA®), which fosters understanding of the impact of design excellence on the quality of life and the economy

Enterprise segment sales were $747 million, up 11 percent from the year-ago quarter. GAAP operating earnings were $59 million or 8 percent of sales compared to $44 million or 7 percent of sales in the year-ago quarter. Non-GAAP operating earnings were $141 million or 19 percent of sales compared to $109 million or 16 percent of sales in the year-ago quarter.

Enterprise highlights:

Continued strong growth in the regions and vertical markets, especially in retail with major mobile computing contracts such as Macy's in North America, a leading Russian retailer, a major supermarket in the Netherlands and two major retailers in France
Received "Strong Positive" rating in Gartner's Rugged Handheld Computer MarketScope†
Expanded and scaled WiNG 5 wireless LAN portfolio by introducing a powerful NOC controller and high-performance 802.11n access points that help enterprise and government customers support rapid growth of wireless devices and multimedia applications in their organizations

Results from Discontinued Operations

Second-quarter net earnings from discontinued operations were $291 million, which substantially relate to operations of the Networks business that Motorola Solutions sold to Nokia Siemens Networks on April 29, 2011 for net cash proceeds in excess of $1 billion.

Third-Quarter and Full Year 2011 Outlook

The company expects to see growth across both government and enterprise segments. Third-quarter sales are expected to grow between 7 and 8 percent over the third quarter of 2010 with EPS from continuing operations of $0.56 to $0.61. This outlook excludes stock-based compensation expense, intangible assets amortization expense and charges associated with items of the variety typically highlighted by the company in its quarterly earnings releases. The company now expects full-year revenue growth of 5.5 to 6 percent with operating earnings of approximately 16.5 percent of sales.

Sprint posts Q2 2011 earnings: net subs up, contract subs down, net loss of $847 million

It's another mixed bag worth of earnings for the folks in Overland Park. Sprint just announced its Q2 2011 earnings prior to the market's open today, and while it's obviously doing its darnedest to paint a rosy picture, the raw numbers show a somewhat different backdrop. Despite having its third consecutive quarter of adding more than one million total net new wireless subscribers, the vast majority of those are coming from the (admittedly less lucrative) prepaid side. In fact, the company lost 101,000 postpaid subscribers in the period, and we're guessing that the one-two punch of WiMAX hitting the expansion skids while VZW built out LTE at a breakneck pace didn't help matters. 674,000 prepaid subs were added to the mix (through Virgin Mobile, Boost Mobile, etc. arms), and despite seeing quarterly sequential and year-over-year growth in wireless service revenue, the carrier still reported a net loss of $847 million. In a way, it's the same story on a different day for The Now Network, and while the just-announced LightSquared partnership may end up bolstering things in time, it'll take something a bit more jarring to turn things around by Q3. Or Q4... right, Dan?

AT&T Sharp FX Plus Appears Unexpectedly

Once in a while, we hear phones that suddenly come out in the open when it is not supposed to be the case. Such is the situation of the Sharp FX Plus for AT&T when it was showed on some posters and flyers from Walmart. With no dates ever confirmed when this new handset from Sharp would be released, it could be quite soon, as everyone would hope. It has been a while ever since it was seen on a leak more than 2 months ago.

Some of the concrete info about the Sharp FX Plus is that it will run on Android 2.2 Froyo, having a full QWERTY keypad when sliding the screen to the side, 3.2-inch HVGA touch screen, and networking capabilities via WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS. It also has its unique offering for audiophiles, such as the Audience earSmart, noise cancellation technology. It may come out with a two-year contract with less than $100 on the tabs.

Source: Unwired View

Verizon's version of the Samsung Galaxy S II will support LTE (update: still unconfirmed)

The jury's still out on when Verizon will get around to releasing the Samsung Function -- its own version of the highly covetable Galaxy S II -- but that hasn't stopped Big Red from whetting our appetite. The country's largest carrier has taken to the Twitterverse to confirm that its upcoming pride and joy will include an LTE radio, answering quite possibly the most perplexing mystery concerning Verizon's take on the device. We're still yearning for pricing, availability, and even images of the device to show up, but this little nugget alone may be enough to keep our impatience at ease for a while longer.

Update: VZWSupport just tweeted some disappointing news: "Clarification -- I am speaking of the new Samsung Galaxy tab 10.1 that is 4G." Tomato, tomahto, tablets, smartphones, are we right?

Sprint and Crown Castle Extend Relationship to Enable Network Vision

Sprint today announced it has amended important contracts with Crown Castle to enable the delivery of the next-generation networks through Sprint’s Network Vision plan. The agreement impacts more than 10,000 of Sprint’s nationwide cell sites.

Network Vision, announced in December, is expected to provide an enhanced network experience by improving voice quality and providing faster data speeds while creating network flexibility, reducing operating costs and improving environmental sustainability. The agreement with Crown Castle helps enable several of these benefits.

CompanionLink Offers PC Sync Support for the myTouch 4G Slide

CompanionLink Software offers two-way synchronization of contacts, calendar, tasks, and memos between PC or web-based CRM databases and the new T-Mobile myTouch 4G Slide. CompanionLink supports syncing the myTouch 4G Slide with Microsoft Outlook, IBM Lotus Notes, Sage ACT!, Palm Desktop, Novell GroupWise, Salesforce CRM, and Highrise. CompanionLink also supports sync with Microsoft Outlook add-ins like Franklin Covey PlanPlus for Microsoft Outlook, Getting Things Done, Take Back Your Life, Respond, Avidian Prophet, and Outlook Business Contact Manager.

The T-Mobile myTouch 4G Slide improves upon the myTouch model in many ways. Featuring a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, slide out QWERTY keyboard, and 4G speeds, the myTouch 4G Slide runs HTC Sense 3.0 on Android 2.3. Additionally, the myTouch 4G Slide’s 8MP camera is said to be one of the best currently on the market. All together, the myTouch 4G Slide should prove to be a popular device this summer.

CompanionLink offers four ways to sync the myTouch 4G Slide – wired USB sync, local Wi-Fi sync, a secure hosted wireless sync service, and wireless sync via Google. Click here to learn more about CompanionLink’s various sync options.

Vodafone axes EVO 3D before it even hits shelves

Keen-eyed observers, or those who registered to be notified about the EVO 3D, may have noticed a sudden dearth of glasses-free 3D phones coming to Vodafone. Apparently, the British carrier's execs are not the patient type. After several delays, Vodafone has decided to simply ax the handset rather than wait out HTC's supply issues, and has removed it from the company's "Coming Soon" page. Lets just hope its customers are a bit more understanding -- especially those who signed up to get first-crack at the now canceled phone.

New S-Frame Digital Video Photo Frames by Sony

Sony today released information on three new S-Frame digital photo frames is projected video has been added to its range. The DPF-HD1000, DPF-HD800 HD video support frames including MPEG4 video playback, MPEG1, Motion JPEG and videos captured with digital cameras.

Both tables have an internal memory of 2GB and the HD800 has an 8-inch screen with a resolution of 800 x 480 and the HD1000 has a resolution of 1026 x 600 with a 10.1-inch S-screen.The new frames have integrated speakers and are designed to also playback audio files to MP3, AAC and Linear PCM.

The Sony S-Frame range will come in September at a price: DPF-HD1000 (10 “WSVGA LCD): $ 169.99, DPF-HD800 (8″ WVGA LCD) $ 139.99, DPF-HD700 (7 “WVGA LCD): $ 119.99

Xperia X10 gets Gingerbread update, gratuitous cookie pictures ensue

Since they're free of preservatives, Android updates tend to get pretty stale pretty quickly. As such, the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 has definitely lost its best flavor, but here comes a refresh. The long-promised 2.3.3 Gingerbread update is now available, but only if you're pocketing a carrier-free phone. To apply the update -- which also includes WiFi and USB tethering, improved Facebook integration, and some fancy new widgets -- you'll need a USB cable and the company's PC software, meaning this one is far from OTA. When will a cable-free update come along? SE regrets to inform that it "cannot give you an exact date for when the update will be available for you." What's another few weeks... or months?

Samsung Galaxy S II with WiMAX stops by the FCC on its way to Sprint

This Sprint-bound Galaxy S II already posed for one candid and now it also appears to have made a tour of the FCC's testing facilities. Packing CDMA and WiMAX radios, along with a design that matches the leak and and an appropriate model number (SPH-D710), this definitely appears to be the Within we were expecting. So far the only additional clue teased from the FCC documents comes from Wireless Goodness which points out it's 5mm taller and 3mm wider than Euro-spec Galaxy S IIs, but feel free to click the source link and look for yourself.

Sprint Introduces Protection Plan for Netbooks, Notebooks and Tablets

Sprint protection plan, netbook, notebook, tablet, Assurant Advanced Protection Pack

Sprint has launched a custom protection plan available to customers with netbooks, notebooks and tablets. The Assurant Advanced Protection Pack provides repair or replacement in the event a device suffers mechanical or electrical breakdown or is accidentally damaged, lost or stolen.

The Assurant Advanced Protection Pack, costs $13 per month* and includes features to help customers safeguard their devices. These features include a tool to locate a lost device, dedicated technical support with remote login, virus defense, data back-up of contacts, photos and media, and three months of credit monitoring if the device is lost or stolen. Customers may enroll in the program when they activate a new device on a Sprint data plan, or within 30 days of the new activation or new equipment purchase.

 

The Assurant Advanced Protection Pack is a wise investment that can save a lot of money and provide a peace of mind. Customers save valuable time with convenient, easy and ongoing tech support either online or on the phone. Customers also have control over and protection of their personal data if their device is lost or stolen.

 

Some of Sprint’s popular devices that would qualify for the Advanced Protection Pack include:

HTC EVO View 4G,

Samsung Galaxy Tab,

Dell Inspiron 11Z

 

The Assurant Advanced Protection Pack is a comprehensive, bundled protection offering managed by Assurant Solutions. Certain protection products can be purchased separately. Customers may visit www.AssurantProtection.com for more information and to register their protected device.

 

Verizon Wireless to Expand 4G LTE Network in MetroWest Massachusetts on Aug. 18

Verizon Wireless announced today it will further expand the world’s first large-scale 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) network to an additional 26 MetroWest communities on August 18. Verizon Wireless customers with 4G LTE smartphones, laptop modems and mobile hotspots will be able to take advantage of speeds up to 10 times faster than the company’s 3G network.

Within the Commonwealth, Verizon Wireless already offers its 4G LTE network in the Greater Boston area, including over a dozen communities in MetroWest, and Springfield, Massachusetts. The 26 cities and towns in Middlesex, Norfolk and Plymouth Counties that will be covered by the August 18th 4G LTE network expansion include:

RadioShack ditches T-Mobile for Verizon, switcheroo happens September 15th

Well, it looks like T-Mobile is no longer on friendly enough terms with Radio Shack to call it "The Shack." The retailer announced today that it's ending its partnership with the carrier in favor of a new one with rival Verizon, which will be joining current partners AT&T and Sprint. The last day to buy a T-Mobile phone or service plan at The Shack will be September 14th, with Verizon moving in and setting up shop the very next day. As Reuters notes, however, the move isn't all that surprising -- the partnership has apparently been both an unprofitable one and a rocky one, with Radio Shack recently alleging that T-Mobile had "materially breached" its contract. While that's a bit of a blow for T-Mobile, the move seems to be working out quite well for Radio Shack -- its stock has already shot up more than 20 percent today on the news.

Two New BlackBerry Phones Exposed for the Press

From various leaks and stolen shots, it ends up facing the press with official photos of its existence. The BlackBerry 9810 Torch 2 and the BlackBerry 9860 Touch/Volt has now been presented to the press. With the new phones appearing, it only indicates of its appearance in online stores and stalls sometime soon, in fact, August being the soonest in Canada. These handsets, unlike in the past with Torch and Storm 2, will be distributed for selling in various US carriers and not only focused on big companies like AT&T and Verizon.

The Torch 2 runs on a 1.2 GHz processor, 512 MB RAM for memory, with 8GB storage, which can be expandable to 32GB via a MicroSD card. It also features a 3.2-inch touch screen, which has a QWERTY keypad, and an optical trackpad under it. The BlackBerry 9860 Touch also works on 1.2 GHz processor, but has a bigger 768 MB RAM, with smaller storage for 4GB, still expandable via MicroSD. Both phones run on BlackBerry OS 7.

Source: PocketNow

Onkyo remote app ushers in a new area of losing Android phones in the couch

Is the devoted remote going the way of dodo? HiFi audio manufacturer Onkyo is certainly hedging its bets with the release of its first Android app, which gives users the ability to control a number of its home theater systems. The Remote App, due out in August, makes it possible to browse content and stream audio from Android smartphones to the TX-8050 and all Onkyo A/V network receivers released this year. This isn't the company's first flirtation with the open world of Android. Late last year, Onkyo beat the competition to the punch by announcing a couple of Android tablets.

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Onkyo Announces Remote App for Android

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (7/25/11) -- Home audio specialist, Onkyo, demonstrates its ongoing commitment to greater convergence in home entertainment with the announcement of its first application for the Android mobile platform. Onkyo's Remote App for Android will allow owners to integrate wireless audio from an Android-based device into their Onkyo home theater system, and provides a range of remote control functions.

Operating over a wireless local network, the application will allow Onkyo owners to stream music stored on an Android device to an Onkyo network audio system. Music played through an Onkyo system gains far greater power and fidelity.

Users will be able to browse networked content without needing to view on-screen menus on a connected display. Instead, they will use the touch-screen GUI on their Android device to navigate menus and control a variety of functions, such as selecting the input source or adjusting the volume and tone. Furthermore, users will be able to control output in individual zones in a multi-room distributed audio set-up.

Available in August as a free download from the Android market, the Remote App for Android will be compatible with all of Onkyo's network A/V receivers released in 2011, as well as with the TX-8050 stereo network receiver.

Sprint details Q4 CDMA Direct Connect launch plans and handsets, quietly waves goodbye to iDEN

We're guessing that this isn't the riveting Q4 announcement that Dan Hesse promised us last week at Sprint's Kansas headquarters, but it's a shock to the system nonetheless. The outfit's legacy iDEN network is still kicking around (and in turn, eating up valuable resources to run it), and while we're told that those push-to-talk users are some of the most loyal, it looks as if 2012 will be the year they're forced to try something new. The company's CDMA-based Direct Connect alternative is officially slated to launch this winter, with those who buy in treated to triple the square miles of the company's current push-to-talk coverage area, broadband capabilities and a smattering of new devices.

The Kyocera DuraMax and DuraCore will be joined by an unannounced Motorola smartphone, all of which should be rugged enough to handle the expected field work. Furthermore, Sprint will be adding international push-to-talk (alongside "additional capabilities") in early 2012, and users should see a marked improvement in in-building coverage. Finally, we're told that voice and data capacity is expected to increase significantly as Sprint leverages its spectrum holdings in 800MHz, 1.9GHz, and -- through its relationship with Clearwire -- 2.5GHz. And with that, we'd say your iDEN handset stash just became quite the collector's item. Full details are tucked away in the PR just past the break.

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Sprint Prepares for 4Q Launch of Sprint Direct Connect with Feature-Rich, CDMA Handsets

First phones come packed with broadband capabilities and next-generation functionality; New phones will operate on push-to-talk footprint that's triple the size of Sprint's current one

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (BUSINESS WIRE), July 25, 2011 - Sprint (NYSE: S) today announced the initial phones it plans to deploy in the fourth quarter when the company launches its next-generation, push-to-talk service powered by Sprint's broadband CDMA network. The new service – Sprint® Direct Connect – will deliver higher bandwidth capacity to keep up with customers' data demands and is expected to extend the company's push-to-talk coverage to almost triple the square miles of the company's current push-to-talk offering.

The Sprint Direct Connect phones to be introduced this fall will be the Kyocera DuraCore and the Kyocera DuraMax. As previously announced, a third handset -- a Motorola smartphone -- will be described closer to the launch of Sprint Direct Connect. The devices will feature most of the capabilities available on current Sprint push-to-talk phones plus next-generation, push-to-talk applications and functionality. Specific availability dates and pricing for each device will be released later.

"Sprint is thrilled to launch Sprint Direct Connect with a strong starting lineup of phones," said Fared Adib, Sprint vice president of product development. "These devices represent the new gold standard in push-to-talk technology."

Devices in 2011

Kyocera DuraMax brings customers advanced technology wrapped in a rugged exterior with a clamshell form factor. It offers military-grade durability, including water resistance when submerged up to one meter for up to 30 minutes. DuraMax comes with an integrated 3.2-megapixel camera and camcorder. The 32GB expandable microSD memory card slot provides the storage capacity required to manage large files on-the-go. Additional key features include:

* 2.0-inch QVGA TFT main display
* Military standard 810G specifications for dust, shock, vibration, temperature extremes, blowing rain and immersion
* Encased in rubber, non-slip Dura-Grip® material for sure hold and extra durability
* Stereo Bluetooth® wireless technology
* 2.5mm stereo headphone jack (supports PTT headsets)
* 1GB microSD memory card
* Large-font menu option
* GPS navigation enabled
* Supports SMS and MMS messaging and third-party data applications

Kyocera DuraCore is an affordable, high-impact solution for a mobile workforce that relies on push-to-talk. Additional features of this rugged, clamshell-style phone:

* Military standard 810G specifications for dust, shock and vibration
* Encased in rubber, non-slip Dura-Grip material for sure hold and extra durability
* Bi-directional speakerphone
* Bluetooth wireless technology
* 2.5mm mono headphone jack (supports PTT headsets)
* Large-font menu option
* GPS navigation enabled
* Supports SMS and MMS messaging and third-party data applications

In addition to Direct Connect® and group calling options, the devices are expected to enable Land Mobile Radio (LMR) interoperability, simultaneous data and push to talk, and availability notification. In early 2012, Sprint Direct Connect will offer additional capabilities, including international push-to-talk.

Sprint continues to involve developers in the creation of new applications through its Sprint Gets Rugged application developers program. The program provides information, support and tools needed for developers to port applications to Sprint Direct Connect devices and to create innovative applications.

Sprint Gets Rugged application developer program also will be featured at the Sprint Open Solutions Conference, Nov. 2-4, in Santa Clara, Calif. For more information or to register for the conference, please visit http://developer.sprint.com/devcon2011.

More information on the Sprint Gets Rugged application developers program can be found at http://developer.sprint.com/SprintGetsRugged.

Better Coverage and Capacity

Sprint Direct Connect marks a tangible initial benefit of Network Vision, Sprint's blueprint to deploy a cost-effective and innovative network. Announced in December, Network Vision is expected to consolidate multiple network technologies into one seamless network, resulting in enhanced coverage, quality and speed; better network flexibility; reduced operating costs; and improved environmental sustainability. The plan includes a complete upgrade of Sprint's wireless networks accompanied by changes in device chipsets and network infrastructure.

The expected benefits of Network Vision to Sprint's push-to-talk customers will be wide-ranging:

* Push-to-talk coverage footprint is planned to increase to nearly 2.7 million square miles and is expected to cover a population of 309 million (with the addition of 1xRTT and roaming coverage) – an increase from the iDEN network's 908,370 square miles covering a population 278 million.
* In-building coverage is expected to improve significantly through investment in the most advanced CDMA technology and radio equipment.
* Voice and data capacity is expected to increase significantly as Sprint will be able to fully leverage its industry leading spectrum holdings in 800MHz, 1.9GHz, and – through its relationship with Clearwire – 2.5GHz.

"Our customers are asking for broadband push-to-talk now," said Paget Alves, president-Sprint Business. "We've seen steadily increasing demand for faster data speeds, better and broader coverage, and more applications on push-to-talk devices. Sprint Direct Connect is designed to solve for all three and is expected to come with sub-second push-to-talk call setup time initially in Sprint CDMA Rev. A (3G) coverage areas. Sub-second call setup is expected to expand across the United States with the implementation of Network Vision."

During the nationwide implementation of Network Vision, Sprint expects to continue operating the iDEN network at current best-ever performance levels. As the customer base shifts to more broadband-centric push-to-talk applications on the CDMA network and Sprint launches Sprint Direct Connect, iDEN cell sites are expected to be phased out in 2013. Sprint account executives will work with customers to provide a smooth transition with personalized upgrade assistance. Sprint also plans to offer current Nextel Direct Connect customers attractive device pricing to help transition to Sprint Direct Connect.

HTC Salsa ditches its Facebook button for Weibo in China

When is a "Facebook phone" not a Facebook phone? When it's in China. While this handset may look like an HTC Salsa at first glace, if you look a little closer you'll notice that the familiar little blue button has been replaced with one for Sina's Weibo social networking service. Lest you think this is just another KIRF, however, you can rest assured this is indeed the real deal, and a fairly big deal for HTC, considering that Weibo has around 150 million total users, and 50 million active monthly users. As for the phone itself, it's remained mostly unchanged otherwise, with it packing an 800MHz processor and a 3.4-inch 480 x 320 display, along with Android 2.3.3 with Sense 2.1 on top. Head on past the break for a video, and hit the source link below for a closer look.

Sprint Samsung Google Nexus S 4G Steps Up for an Update

It has now been official that the Samsung Google Nexus S 4G will be having software update rolled out beginning July 25. This may not be much of a big update, along with better OS than the Android Gingerbread, but it is confirmed that the phone should have the newest upgrade for version 2.3.5. What it does is that it will help the device for a more stable and faster 4G signal; it also improves WiFi connectivity, and even provides TTY features for special accessibility options for the deaf.

It may not improve the overall performance of the unit so much, but receiving the rollout would provide better connection relief for those who are just sick of terrible 4G speeds in the past. This time around, the Samsung Google Nexus S 4G will again provide internet browsing experience a better leaf. The update will be coming on air, as notifications pop out on the screen, starting Monday.

Source: Phandroid

LG Optimus 3D now available on Three UK

LG Optimus 3D

The LG Optimus 3D’s innovative 4.3” ‘stereoscopic’ touchscreen is capable of screening 3D content without glasses, whilst two inbuilt 5MP cameras also make it easy for people to create their own 3D videos in full high-definition. Superior speed and power is also achieved with what LG is calling “tri-dual” core technology – a dual-core processor, dual cameras and dual-channel memory – enabling people to multitask, browse web pages, play the free preloaded games and watch movies more smoothly and speedily than ever before. 

Sylvia Chind, Head of Handsets said “The 3D trend is red hot at the moment which is why we’re particularly excited about bringing this handset to our customers. Coupled with Three’s award winning network our customers will experience a quick and reliable experience when enjoying their 3D content.”

 

The LG Optimus 3D is available from 35 a month or 40 a month on The One Plan with all-you-can-eat data, 2,000 anytime, any network minutes and 5,000 texts.

 

PAYG customers can get the LG Optimus 3D for 449.99. All in One 15 costs 15 and gives 30-days access to all-you-can-eat data along with 300 any-network minutes and 3,000 texts. Or All in One 25 costs 25 and offers 500 minutes, 3,000 texts and all-you-can-eat data for a 30-day period.

 

Key features:

 

Glasses-free LCD panel for 3D viewing

Record, watch and game

3D enabling dualcore processor TI OMAP 4

Full HD 2D (1080p) / 3D (720p) video playback

4.3” stereoscopic screen

Dual stereoscopic 5MP cameras

Mini HDMI output

You Tube 3D

3 Pre-loaded games

 

Sprint readies Nexus S 4G update with improved WiMAX performance, we go hands-on (video)

How would you feel about a little Android 2.3.5 (!) action on that Nexus S 4G of yours? What about some WiMAX performance improvements? You should be getting all that plus WiFi connectivity and speakerphone quality tweaks, along with TTY support on Monday July 25th, which is when Sprint is expected to begin rolling out an OTA update for Samsung's pure Gingerbread handset. We were given an exclusive first look at the new software, and while it's still being finalized, we tested it side-by-side with the original, and our results show a welcome increase in 4G speeds across the board. As you may remember, we observed repeatable WiMAX performance issues with the old software, so this update is excellent news indeed. The amount of improvement will likely depend on your locale, but even in signal-challenged San Francisco and New York we noticed the difference right away -- so kudos to Google, Samsung, and Sprint for addressing this. We also experienced performance in-line with our Epic 4G -- the benchmark device used for our initial testing with the previous firmware version. Take a look at our gallery below, and peek at our hands-on video after the break. Because the update was originally expected to roll out on July 11th, the date mentioned in our video remain unchanged. The correct date is July 25th, however.

Sprint Nexus S 4G update

Zach Honig contributed to this report.

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Nexus S 4G Software Update Roll Out Begins on July 25, Boosts Data Speeds

Nexus S™ 4G is getting a software update designed to improve 4G data speeds for users and provide several other updates. The release will begin rolling out to Nexus S 4G handsets on Monday, July 25. All users should receive the update in the next three weeks.

In Sprint's preproduction testing, Nexus S 4G showed excellent performance. After receiving feedback from a small number of our customers, we conducted a secondary analysis of its performance with our partners at Google and Samsung and were able to identify some ways we could boost performance on Nexus S 4G.

These enhancements should increase 4G data speeds and signal strength for users. The software update also improves Wi-Fi connectivity, speakerphone audio quality and adds TTY support for the deaf and hard of hearing.

"Nexus S 4G continues to be a highly sought after smartphone and performs very well for our customers. We are excited to make additional enhancements that will provide an even better user experience" said Fared Adib, vice president – Product Development, Sprint. "We're committed to listening to our customers' feedback and working with our partners to provide the best possible customer experience."

Manufactured by Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), a leading global mobile phone provider and the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the United States, Nexus S 4G is the only Nexus S phone with 4G and provides a pure Google experience with Android™ 2.3, Gingerbread, the fastest version of Android available for smartphones.

Additional key features include:

- 1GHz Samsung application processor that produces rich 3D-like graphics, faster upload and download times and supports HD-like multimedia content

- Dedicated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) to make playing mobile games, browsing the Web and watching videos a fast, fluid and smooth experience

- AMOLED™ touchscreen technology on a 4-inch Contour Display

- 5 megapixel rear-facing camera and camcorder and front-facing VGA camera.

- Gyroscope sensor to provide a smooth gaming experience when the user tilts the device up or down or pans the phone to the left or right

- 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot capability, supporting up to six Wi-Fi enabled devices simultaneously

- Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which allows the device to read information from everyday objects, like stickers and posters embedded with NFC chips

Bad Company 2 from EA available for Sony Ericsson’s Xperia PLAY

Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY

Sony Ericsson is once again teaming up with EA Mobile, a division of Electronic Arts Inc. and the world’s leading mobile games publisher, to deliver games for its flagship gaming smartphone – Xperia PLAY – with access to one of the most popular modern warfare action games of all time, Battlefield: Bad Company 2.

Taking full advantage of the smartphone’s outstanding graphic capabilities and game-changing control pad, Xperia PLAY brings realistic, fast-paced gameplay to the Android operating system for the first time. Battlefield: Bad Company 2 is available to download from today for all Xperia PLAY customers in all markets outside the US.

 

“As Xperia PLAY becomes available in more markets across the world, the portfolio of games continues to grow and so we’re delighted to announce the availability of Battlefield: Bad Company 2 for Xperia PLAY,” said, Dominic Neil-Dwyer, Head of Market Development, Sony Ericsson. “We aim to give consumers the best possible gaming experience on a smartphone and Battlefield: Bad Company 2 for Xperia PLAY is the latest title from EA to bring one of the most popular gaming franchises to our consumers. Watch this space for updates on more content coming!”

 

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 for Xperia PLAY will bring its best in class all-out warfare gameplay to Xperia PLAY. Players will unleash devastation from the air with intuitive controls and capture emplacements in jungle heat, arctic snow and desert dust. Fourteen single-player missions across five intensely detailed battle zones plunge players deep into the action. An arsenal of up to 14 weapons ranging from a knife to rocket-propelled grenades will wreak havoc on enemy forces. Players will also pilot the action through multiple vehicle types, including tanks and helicopters.

 

Sanyo Announces New Eneloop Mobile Booster Lithium Ion Batteries for Faster Charging of Mobile Devices

Sanyo eneloop mobile boosters lithium-ion batteries, Sanyo KBC-L54D, Sanyo KBC-L27D

SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (SANYO), a world leader in rechargeable battery technology, is pleased to announce its new “eneloop mobile boosters (KBC-L54D and KBC-L27D)”, lithium-ion batteries with USB power ports which have higher capacity than previous models (KBC-L2BS and KBC-L3AS). 

The new mobile boosters can not only recharge the latest smart phones and tablet PCs such as iPhone and iPad*1 series, but they can also power various gadgets with USB power ports. Along with this, the higher output makes it possible to charge gadgets more quickly. The new eneloop mobile boosters will go on sale on September 8, 2011 in Japan only.

 

SANYO will continue to develop and expand its ‘eneloop universe’ product series while emphasizing lifestyles that value reusing resources, allowing people to enjoy the conveniences the series offers, as well as a sustainable energy lifestyle.

 

1. More power for your gadgets thanks to the higher capacity lithium-ion batteries increased by approximately 8% than previous models (KBC-L2BS and KBC-L3AS)

 

The new eneloop mobile boosters have a greater capacity lithium-ion battery than previous models (KBC-L2BS and KBC-L3AS) by approximately 8%; KBC-L54D with 5400mAh and KBC-L27D with 2700mAh.

 

2. Reduced charging times for gadgets due to the higher output of 1.5A (KBC-L54D), 1.5 times that of the previous model (KBC-L2BS)

 

Generally speaking, smart phones and tablet PCs which are growing in popularity need more power than conventional cell phones. The KBC-L27D with 1.0A, twice the output of the previous model (KBC-L3AS), is suitable especially for smart phones for efficient recharging in a shorter time. In addition, the KBC-L54D with 1.5A, one and a half times the output of previous model (KBC-L2BS) is suitable especially for tablet PCs which need a high power current.

 

3. Rechargeable via AC adaptor and USB port on PCs. Remaining capacity clearly indicated with 3 color LED light

The models can be recharged through a PC’s USB power ports via a USB cable, as well as through a dedicated AC adaptor. In addition, the attached USB cable which is USB-A type – USB-micro-B type can also be used to supply power to gadgets*7 such as smart phones with a USB-micro-B type port. Furthermore, the 3 color LED light clearly indicates the remaining capacity of the battery with green, orange and red.

 

Nokia Q2 2011: 'clearly disappointing' results as challenges prove 'greater than expected'

With Nokia still yet to fully dive in to the Windows Phone swimming hole, you had to know it was going to be another ugly quarter's worth of results. And it is. The company just posted its Q2 2011 numbers and there's a definite downward trend. Operating profits declined 44 percent since Q1, 391 million Euro compared to 704, and net sales of mobile devices are down 23 percent over the same period -- 20 percent compared to Q2 last year. CEO Stephen Elop quite naturally tried to spin this thing in the right direction:

The challenges we are facing during our strategic transformation manifested in a greater than expected way in Q2 2011. However, even within the quarter, I believe our actions to mitigate the impact of these challenges have started to have a positive impact on the underlying health of our business. Most importantly, we are making better-than expected progress toward our strategic goals.

But, he can't deny the obvious, calling the results "clearly disappointing." Looking forward, Elop expects "competitive pressures to continue," but indicates the company has a "clear strategy" to improve things. He says those who have seen the company's early Windows Phone devices (really, who hasn't) are "very optimistic" about their potential and that they hope to launch this year with a "sequence of concentrated product launches. Very expensive launches, we hear.

Update: Elop just wrapped up his portion of the company's earning call. A summary and a few choice quotes are available below.

In the earnings call, Stephen Elop didn't rock the boat, more or less sticking to the company line by talking up the company's "immediate actions" to address the current state of the market, which he states has largely shifted from a "battle of devices to a war of ecosystems." The company's ecosystem of choice is now, of course, Windows Phone, and Elop says he has "increased confidence" that the first Nokia WP7 devices will ship this year. Yes, "increased confidence," meaning there's still room for a slip, and he reconfirmed that phones won't ship in volume until 2012.

Elop also talked about the company's intellectual property victories, most notably against Apple. There was "significant intellectual property income" this quarter and he re-iterated that "intellectual property is an important currency" these days, which leaves us wondering what company we'll next be digitally inserting into the salmon's mouth.

SwiftKey X keyboard app is free today on Amazon, be swift or pay $3.99

After plenty of hands-on time with SwiftKey X, we reckon it's probably the best virtual keyboard you can get for Android phones. And, for the next 21 hours or so, it's even better than that -- because it's free at Amazon's Appstore. So, if you're brandishing Android 2.1 or higher and you type in one of the 17 supported languages, then the source link below beckons. Come back quickly, though, or we'll miss you terribly. (The tablet version of the app is still $4.99, mind -- but there's always tomorrow.)

Dell Venue Pro firmware update silences WiFi woes

We wouldn't say it was delivered with lightning speed, but Dell's firmware update for the Venue Pro is at least on schedule. The outfit's Lionel Menchaca tweeted that the refresh, which brings a fix for a WiFi lockup issue (among others), "starts rolling out today for T-Mobile customers in the US + all other customers outside the US." Unfortunately for AT&T customers sporting this pro phone, it looks like you'll be left in the firmware lurch a bit longer --- there's been no mention of a similar update for Ma Bell.

Optus unlocks free-to-air-TV on your mobile with landmark innovation in mobile entertainment

Optus TV

Optus has today launched Optus TV Now, a landmark innovation in mobile entertainment. In an Australian first for a telecommunications company, Optus customers will be able to schedule, record and playback free-to-air television from any compatible 3G mobile device+ or personal computer. With Optus TV Now, Optus customers can record their favourite TV program using their mobile phone and then play it back on their mobile or PC at a time that’s more convenient to them. The service is available across all 15 free-to-air channels. 

Austin Bryan, Director of Optus Digital Media said, “While we’ve been able to record free to air TV on our personal video recorder for years, Optus TV Now is the first service that allows customers from across Australia to record free to air TV using their mobile and play it back on a mobile or personal computer.

 

“This innovative new product highlights the diverse and exciting potential for consumer cloud services. Optus TV Now, along with the recently launched Optus Smart Safe, proves that Optus is fast becoming a leader in digital services.”

 

All Optus mobile subscribers will get 45 minutes of free storage every month with the Optus TV Now Basic Plan while customers looking for more storage space can add Optus TV Now as a bolt-on to their existing mobile service. The Optus TV Now Standard Plan provides five hours of storage time for $6.99 per month while the Optus TV Now Premium Plan provides 20 hours of storage time for $9.99 per month.

 

Optus mobile customers are able to clear their recorded content and re-record and store as many times as they like, enabling them to make the most of their allotted storage throughout the month. Customers can also set whole series to record (pending available storage space) – meaning they can catch up on content at the time most convenient to them.

 

Optus customers will be able to access the Optus TV Now service whenever they want. Customers can download the Optus TV Now Electronic Program Guide where they can select programs to record and playback from the wide selection of free to air channels available at their home address.

 

Isis Forms Relationships with Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express

Isis, the national mobile commerce joint venture between AT&T Mobility, T-Mobile USA and Verizon Wireless, today announced that Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express will join Isis in making mobile commerce a reality for millions of U.S. consumers and merchants. Isis’ relationships with all four payment networks mean that with Isis-enabled phones and payment terminals in place, merchants and consumers will have ubiquity and freedom of choice when it comes to payment network acceptance.

“Since the formation of Isis in November, we have been committed to building a mobile commerce platform that aligns and advances the interests of consumers, merchants and banks,” said Michael Abbott, chief executive officer for Isis. “By working with the nation’s payment networks – Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express – we significantly advance the vision of an open and secure platform that provides banks and merchants with a new and highly relevant way to connect with consumers.”

LTE Gathers Momentum but Spectrum Challenges Still Remain

ABI Research’s market data currently tracks 28 commercial FD-LTE networks, and counting. No TD-LTE network has gone live yet, but commercial launches of this technology jointly developed by China and Qualcomm are getting closer, with the Global TD-LTE Initiative (GTI) being formed in February this year to push forward its development and adoption. The five-month old initiative counts prominent WiMAX players such as Clearwire and P1 as its members, as well as major telco operators in Taiwan, India, Japan, and South Korea.

“The biggest concern facing many operators now is the squeeze on available spectrum,” says ABI research analyst Fei Feng Seet. “Regulators in certain countries have not yet announced any plans for LTE spectrum allocation.”

merican Express and Sprint Collaborate to Promote Serve

American Express and Sprint today announced an agreement that will provide Sprint customers with easy access to Serve, American Express' recently launched digital payments platform. The agreement marks Serve’s first relationship with a mobile carrier since launching in late March, and builds on Sprint’s commitment to providing customers mobile solutions with convenience and choice.

This summer Serve’s mobile wallet application will be made available in the Sprint Zone to Sprint customers using select Android-powered smartphones1. Sprint customers with these devices can find Sprint Zone, which also provides Sprint account information, recommends apps and more, as an icon on their Sprint mobile device.

Apple Introduces World’s First Thunderbolt Display

Apple Thunderbolt Display

Apple today unveiled the new Apple Thunderbolt Display, the world’s first display with Thunderbolt I/O technology and the ultimate docking station for your Mac notebook. With just a single cable, users can connect a Thunderbolt-enabled Mac to the 27-inch Apple Thunderbolt Display and access its FaceTime camera, high quality audio, and Gigabit Ethernet, FireWire 800, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt ports. Designed specifically for Mac notebooks, the new display features an elegant, thin, aluminum and glass enclosure, and includes a MagSafe connector that charges your MacBook Pro or MacBook Air.

“The Apple Thunderbolt Display is the ultimate docking station for your Mac notebook,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “With just one cable, users can dock with their new display and connect to high performance peripherals, network connections and audio devices.”

 

With a beautiful 16:9 edge-to-edge glass design, the Thunderbolt Display uses IPS technology to provide a brilliant image across an ultra wide 178 degree viewing angle. Any Thunderbolt-enabled Mac notebook can dock with the display to quickly and easily create a full-fledged desktop solution. The Thunderbolt Display includes a built-in FaceTime HD video camera for crisp video conferencing, a 2.1 speaker system for high quality audio, an integrated MagSafe charger to keep Mac notebooks charged, three USB 2.0 ports, one FireWire 800 port, one Gigabit Ethernet port and a Thunderbolt port for daisy chaining up to five additional Thunderbolt devices.

 

The Thunderbolt Display is the world’s first display to include Thunderbolt I/O technology. Featuring two bi-directional channels with transfer speeds up to an amazing 10Gbps each, each Thunderbolt port delivers PCI Express directly to external peripherals such as high performance storage and RAID arrays, supports DisplayPort for high resolution displays and works with existing adapters for HDMI, DVI and VGA displays. Thunderbolt-based Macs with discrete graphics can drive two external displays giving professional users over 7 million additional pixels of display real estate and the ability to daisy chain additional Thunderbolt devices, as well as video and audio capture devices.

 

The Thunderbolt Display includes an ambient light sensor which automatically adjusts the display brightness based on external lighting conditions and uses only as much energy as necessary to provide an optimum viewing experience. Made with mercury-free LED technology, arsenic-free glass and highly recyclable materials, the new display meets Energy Star 5.0 requirements and achieves EPEAT Gold status.* The new display contains no brominated flame retardants and all cables and components are PVC-free.

Pricing & Availability

The new Thunderbolt Display will be available within the next 60 days through the Apple Store (www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers for a suggested retail price of $999 (US). The Apple Thunderbolt Display requires a Mac with a Thunderbolt I/O port.