Mobile News

Mobile panorama of the week, issue Nov. 7

The past week has been extremely rich in the most diverse event. In addition to early November and the transfer time for the winter version, there was a whole series of high-profile announcements of final releases and announcements on the issue, both in the field of hardware and in software. Everything in order.

Official Release Glofiish X500 from E-Ten: wait!

New Glofiish X500 from the Taiwanese company E-Ten Information Systems, perhaps, was one of the most anticipated smartphones of the season. Approve this permit, at a minimum, active debate in many forums. News release took place on Monday, October 30. A detailed review of technical capabilities Glofiish X500 is available here, but we will focus on points that have not been well elucidated. X500 has pioneered the company's portfolio in several categories. Firstly, this is the first device from E-Ten, combining a built-in GPS and Wi-Fi. Secondly, this is the first device from E-Ten with a slot for memory cards microSD, not miniSD or SD, and finally, thirdly, this is the first device from E-Ten under a new brand «glofiish».

Mobile panorama of the week, issue Nov. 7

The very next day after the announcement, a few well-known news feeds appeared angry notes regarding unfair marketing E-Ten in promoting glofiish X500. Such statements were, to put it mildly, misguided. The company is positioning novelty as the world's thinnest device that has GPS support and Wi-Fi. However, many publications have rejected clarification about the GPS and Wi-Fi, and in their presentation turned out that E-Ten X500 promoted as the world's thinnest PDA, which, of course, untrue. Later novostnikov error was noticed and recognized. The device is really thin for its features - stated thickness of only 15.5 mm. Closest to potential competitors X500 - it is HTC P3300, developed on the platform HTC Artemis, and the ASUS P535, an official release which has not yet taken place. The latter is the first communicator of ASUSTeK Computer, equipped with a GPS-module. If we compare the X500 with the HTC P3300, then the main difference is the more nimble Processor - Samsung SC3 2442 processor with a clock frequency of 400 MHz in the X500 against the TI OMAP 850 200 MHz with HTC P3300. ASUS P535 X500 superior in this respect, as equipped with Intel XScale PXA272 520 MHz, in addition, he has more ROM-memory - 256 MB, 128 MB instead of X500 and HTC P3300. However, for those who are important communication characteristics may not like the lack of ASUS P535 support data transfer standard EDGE. Another difference between the ASUS P535 - a slot for memory cards miniSD, instead of microSD.

Simultaneously with the release of the company glofiish X500 E-Ten introduced the world to himself a new brand «glofiish». This brand will be used by E-Ten in the international market to promote its consumer communicators. As explained by the company itself, just a few years of its communicators are "mature" product in terms of technology, design and marketing. Focusing on technology, E-Ten has achieved popularity among users and the press. Currently, the company pays more attention to design, hoping thus to satisfy the tastes of the mass market in the international arena.

Inspiration (inspiring, challenging time, and so on) - emphasizes the ability to easily obtain a variety of information from email to positional data, whenever it is needed.
Versatility (multifunctionality, versatility) - highlights, in particular, support for international standards such as GSM, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.
Commitment (commitment, loyalty) - According to E-Ten, glofiish brand reinforces its commitment to consumers. Two letters «i» in the title are designed to emphasize the close connection between the user and glofiish-communicator which, thanks to the compactness, versatility and flexibility in use, is a comprehensive solution that can provide everything needed for the mobile life.

Thus, glofiish intended to be a symbol of the new generation smartphones from E-Ten and make them more popular and recognizable. Based on the new brand positioning and the fact that X500 - only the first representative from the later E-Ten can be expected, and other multi-communicator, with an attractive design, significantly different from the "bricks", which once produced the company. It should be noted that the first really got a glofiish versatile and attractive, with its design differs from its predecessors radically. Given that the expected price is mild enough, glofiish X500 has all chances to become a hit. Briefly repeat performance. X500 is running an operating system Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC Phone Edition with Service Pack AKU 3.2. It is designed for networks of GSM / GPRS / EDGE (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), support for third-generation networks do not, but wireless networks Wi-Fi (802.11b / g) interface and Bluetooth v2.0 + EDR. The communicator is equipped with a 2-megapixel camera, FM-tuner, and GPS-module (SiRFstar III). Work is performed on a processor with a Samsung SC3 2442 400 MHz, 64 MB RAM and 128 MB ROM, also has a slot for memory cards microSD. The display device has a diagonal of 2.8 inch, QVGA (240x320 pixels) and supports the display of 65K colors. Battery - lithium polymer, capacity 1530 mAh It provides 5 to 7 hours of talk time, 150 to 200 hours of standby time, 10 to 15 hours in PDA mode and from 5 to 7 hours of GPS-navigation. Dimensions of the device are 113h59, 5x15, 5 mm, and weight - 146 grams (with battery). The expected price for the Russian market is $ 750, a tentative release date - mid-November.

The first GPS-navigator from Nokia ... based on Windows CE

The following announcement came somewhat unexpectedly, he waited a little later. Nokia has announced a device called the Nokia 330 Auto Navigation. Rumors about the new product appeared shortly before the announcement, we have them in sufficient detail described in the last issue of mobile panorama. Surprises are not limited to just the earlier announcement. Nokia 330 - is the first device from Nokia, designed specifically for GPS-navigation. That is, this is the first car GPS-navigator from Nokia, supports the way, some multimedia features. Communications capabilities the unit has received almost no - not stated any support for cellular networks or Wi-Fi, no interface Bluetooth. Curiously, the device was so unusual for the production of Nokia, which catalogs the company's website was the section of accessories, including Bluetooth-headset, cradle and GPS-modules.

The second surprise is that the navigator is powered by ... Windows CE.This is very unusual for Nokia, because it is actually the main driver in promoting the operating system Symbian. In the rumor as the most probable Operating System for Nokia 330 was considered Linux, based on which we operate Internet Tablet Nokia 770. However, it turned out otherwise. More surprising step for Nokia - except that release device based on Windows Mobile. Nevertheless, it seems that it's true. The official sources do not call Nokia directly used by the operating system, but some online retailers already taking pre-orders for the device and report the list of characteristics of Windows CE. Net 4.2. Now, after the Treo smartphones from Palm-based company's Windows Mobile and the incident begin to believe that "everything is possible."

However, the use of Windows CE for Automotive browser is not surprising - on the basis of this system produces many well-known manufacturers such decisions. According to its characteristics Nokia 330 is not too issued from the crowd. Is that support for video playback (WMV, AVI, ASF, and MPG) is unusual. It also supports the display of graphics formats JPEG, BMP, as well as music in MP3. In all other parameters are almost standard. That is what is reported in the description of the device at the European site Nokia. Display in Navigator 3.5-inch touchscreen with QVGA (320x240 pixels), 65K colors. Navigation capabilities provides a GPS-module SiRFstar III. However, such a nice addition as TMC-module, which allows to receive timely information about the different situations on the roads, not built, and external, will be optional. Processor is used by Samsung - S3C2440 clocked at 400 MHz, embedded Memory RAM - 64 MB. Dimensions are 119h83h24 mm, and weight - 205 grams. On reaching a set of flash memory card format SD 2 GB preinstalled maps covering Europe. However, for some regions, as recognized by the company itself does not provide 100% coverage. Oddly enough in light of the recent acquisition by Nokia of German company Gate5, well-known manufacturer of digital maps, navigation software and services, the Nokia 330 software and maps are used by other developers. The navigation software installed on the device, - Route 66 Navigate 7, and maps provided the company Navteq. Maps can be displayed in two-and three-dimensional form. Provides day and night display modes. Are supported by step by step voice instructions. Selling car navigator Nokia 330 Auto Navigation to begin on the European market before the end of this year. Expected price is 360 euros, about $ 460 (excluding taxes).

The official release of Windows CE 6.0

Another loud announcement - Microsof Corporation today announced a new version of the operating system Windows CE. It is intended mainly for consumer electronics and embedded systems, that is, devices such as, for example, vending machines, GPS-navigators, and media players. This is interesting news for users of handheld computers, PDA and Smartphone, as Microsof traditionally uses the core Windows CE as the basis for operating systems like Windows Mobile. Preview beta release of Windows CE 6.0 was held in May 2006 at the conference Microsoft Mobile & Embedded DevCon 2006. Now, the company announced the release of the final version.

One of the most interesting posts about Windows Embedded CE 6.0 at the time of the announcement was a statement Microsof that the kernel source for the new system will be 100% open in the program Microsoft Shared Source.Previous versions of Windows Embedded CE can boast of code, open only to 56%. Such generosity was timed to coincide with the tenth anniversary of the date of the first platform Windows Embedded. The Shared Source allows device developers to view source code and modify it, but they will have no obligation to share the final development with Microsoft or anyone else. As expected Microsoft, having the opportunity to access certain parts of the code, including file system drivers and other components of the core, developers can create their own unique variations of operating systems and faster to produce the resulting device on the market. As part of the package Windows Embedded CE also comes Visual Studio 2005 Professional Edition, and embedded development tool, Platform Builder, will now be available as a plug-in Visual Studio 2005. Thus, developers have a set of necessary tools in one solution that will increase the speed of product development and quickly releasing it to market.

Processed core Windows Embedded CE 6.0 can handle up to 32 thousand of processes running simultaneously, each of whom gets access to 2 GB of virtual memory address space. For comparison - in Windows CE 5.0 may be only 32 concurrent processes. New file system supports the storage of large volumes and large files (up to 4 GB). Such capabilities allow the devices to handle more complex applications. In Windows Embedded CE 6.0 provides new communication and multimedia components. One of the most interesting components of the platform allows for devices to transmit data and make voice calls over cellular networks. Thus, can communicate with each other, even such a general, simple, in comparison, narimer with communicators, the device as trade devices or GPS-navigators. You can also create media devices with network functions, including the receipt of content from Windows PCs via a home network. DVR-component (Digital Video Recorders) allows devices to record multiple video streams to a hard drive for later playback. Also an opportunity to connect the computers based on Windows Vista to projectors based on WinCE 6.0 on a wireless or other IP-based networks. Many renowned companies are already working with Windows Embedded CE 6.0 to create devices based on it, they include Unitech, Advantech, Applied Data Systems and Intelligent Instrumentation. The first such device must appear in the current quarter, that is until the end of the year. With regard to the operating system for smartphones, smartphones and PDAs based on the new platform, it is expected that it will appear only in 2008. Before that, most likely, will be released update the current version of Windows Mobile 5.0 - Windows Mobile Crossbow. Devices based on Windows Mobile Crossbow will tentatively in the second half of next year.

SoftMaker Office 2006: a powerful office suite for Pocket PC

The next notable event also relates to the world of software. SoftMaker Software Company has completed beta testing of a powerful office suite SoftMaker Office 2006, which lasted from October this year. Now selling the package has already started, also became available for 30-day trial version of SoftMaker Office 2006. SoftMaker Office 2006 consists of the application TextMaker 2006 (text editor) and PlanMaker 2006 (spreadsheet editor). The developer is positioning it as the only solution for Pocket PC-class office suite for PCs. Besides the fact that it does not require prior conversion to work with documents using Microsoft Word or Excel, and fully retains all the formatting in them, pack an impressive functionality, which can only envy the native Word Mobile and Excel Mobile. According to SoftMaker, TextMaker application 2006 provides the full functionality of text editors for Windows, such as Microsoft Word 2003.Here we are talking about the possibilities of how to format and style sheets to paragraphs and characters, headers and footers, display as a structure that allows fast rebuild documents, multi-lingual spell checker, tools to create forms with checkboxes, lists, input fields, full-fledged Tables with computing capabilities, as well as recurring headlines, the United yacheyka, various kinds of borders and so on.

Import documents between OpenOffice.org and OpenDocument
Support for Unicode, you can create documents in many languages, including Russian
Full support AutoShapes
Automatically number headings and paragraphs,
Line Numbering
Multilevel marking or numbering of paragraphs
Change History
Pop-up comments in Word 2003
Copy the formatting of a piece of text
Automatic hyphenation for 29 languages
Columns of text with different widths.

Application PlanMaker 2006, respectively, compared to convenience and functionality with Microsoft Excel 2003. There are more than 320 built-in calculation functions, support for complex numbers and array processing, named ranges and processing module for building all sorts of charts and graphs that can display any chart created in Microsoft Excel.

Create forms with input fields, checkboxes, dropdown lists, etc.
Validation data
Redesigned toolbar icons
Goto Button
Quick selection of a cell value from the dialogue
Private footer and headers for different areas
Automatic transfer for 33 languages
Support for Unicode, you can create tables in many languages, including Russian
Displays menus and dialogs in 9 languages.

Both applications are designed for handheld computers and communicators based Pocket PC and Windows Mobile, XScale processor or StrongARM. The cost of a full version of the package is $ 69.95, or 69.95 euros, depending on the region.

Opera Mini 3.0 Beta: increased functionality

The company Opera Software has introduced a new beta version of its lightweight browser Opera Mini. Recall that this version of the browser is designed mainly for Java-phones, but it can be run on a more "intelligent" devices. The peculiarity of this browser is that all Web-page pre-processed by a remote server, which compresses them and adapts for easy viewing on the small screen, resulting in the user's terminal comes much more "light" version of the page. Earlier this year, an official release of the first version of Opera Mini, and in May released version 2.0. Experience has proved successful, the browser has become popular, the developer began to expand its capabilities. In the second version adds support for mobile commerce via SMS, downloading content, images, MP3-files and so on, directly on the mobile phone, a more custom design options browser, select from several search engines for your start page, assigning hotkeys for bookmarks on the home page, and as fast horizontal scrolling. Version 3.0 also has several new features.Among the innovations of Opera Mini 3.0 Beta Enhanced secure connections, viewing and processing of RSS-feeds, a tool for downloading pictures to a remote server, as well as automatic folding of long lists of links. To download Opera Mini 3.0 Beta should visit the URL beta.mini.opera.com by Wap-browser device. It is necessary to bear in mind that the beta version is installed separately from the official version of the program, so that all bookmarks, feeds, and settings will be stored separately.

Asian realization HTC Herald and the musical version of Artemis without GPS

The Taiwanese company Dopod, a subsidiary of the infamous company HTC, launches in the Asian region based device platforms HTC branded Dopod. Recently the company announced four new Communicator C800, D810, M700 and P800W, and smartphone C720W. Three new D810, P800W, C720W, not of particular interest, since this alternate implementation platforms Trinity, Artemis, and Excalibur, respectively. However, the C800 and the M700 is worth looking in more detail. Communicator Dopod C800 is the first presented formally, the implementation of the platform HTC Herald, which had been so many rumors. Communicator is really thin - the thickness of 17 mm, it is equipped with a 2-megapixel camera and a slot for memory cards microSD. These are the main differences from the HTC Herald earlier platform - HTC Wizard. The rest of the parameters of the old - sliding side QWERTY-keyboard, support networks, GSM / GPRS / EDGE (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), 2.8-inch display with QVGA (240x320 pixels), the processor Texas Instruments OMAP 850, 64 MB RAM and 128 MB ROM, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, Wi-Fi (802.11 b / g) and so on.

HTC Dopod M700 appearance gives the impression of an ordinary device platform based Artemis, but this model has some fundamental differences. I completely absent M700 GPS-functionality and twice as much ROM - 256 MB. In addition, the device is positioned as a music solution, it supports copyright protection system OMA DRM, and bundled him attached microSD memory card with 512 MB. Otherwise, Dopod M700 and P800W are similar - supports GSM / GPRS / EDGE (850/900/1800/1900 MHz), 2.8-inch display with QVGA (240x320 pixels), FM-tuner card, a Texas Instruments OMAP 850, 64 MB RAM, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, Wi-Fi (802.11 b / g), size - 108h58h16, 8 mm.

Kinoma Player 4 EX: audio and video streaming for Palm OS

Company Kinoma has released a fresh version of the popular player for mobile devices based on the operating system Palm OS. Appendix Kinoma Player 4 EX is positioned as the first media player for Treo smartphones and PDAs Palm, focused on work in the network. The player offers full support of Internet and media content, including Windows Media 9, Flash Video (files. Flv, containing the Flash H.263 and MP3), MPEG4, 3GPP, MP3, and RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol). According to the developer, Kinoma - this is the first application to support Windows Media Video 9 for Palm OS. Innovation were also formats Flash Video and RTSP.

Kinoma Player 4 EX has a completely redesigned user interface. On the Treo communicators may be operated by the thumb of one hand. Even while playing a possible function of the scroll and zoom. Kinoma Player 4 EX can be integrated with the Blazer 4.5 browser on the new Treo, so that by clicking on the link content will be playable for them. Using bookmarks player can gather a collection mediassylok, they can be exported to other devices. Kinoma Player 4 EX also supports playback of all video, audio, and picture viewer, both with built-in memory devices and memory cards. Supported formats include MPEG4, M4A, 3GPP, Flash Video, MP3, Windows Media Audio (no DRM), Windows Media Video, ASF, QuickTime, QuickTime VR, MQV, and JPEG. Traditionally paired with a player, Kinoma company introduced a program of Kinoma Producer 4 for Windows-based computers or Mac OS X, which helps you to convert video content for dozens of devices, including most PDAs and smartphones based on Palm, the console Sony PlayStation Portable, iPod players and so on. The cost of a full version of Kinoma Player 4 EX is $ 24.99. The player supports devices based on Palm OS 5.0.

Briefly about other events of the week

Soft-panorama of the week

Windows Mobile Crossbow Smartphone, personally Screenshots of the new operating system for mobile devices codenamed "Windows Mobile Crossbow is already published in the news. Then, the network appeared screenshots version for Pocket PC. Now came the turn for Smartphone version of Crossbow, its screenshots and leaked to the net. Crossbow - an updated version of Windows Mobile 5.0, one of the possible names at the time - Windows Mobile 5.0 Second Edition. As well as in versions of Pocket PC is observed a change of style (the main screen and icons in the style of Windows Vista). But the important thing is that, judging by these screenshots on smartphones with Crossbow will be pre-installed applications like Word Mobile, Excel Mobile and PowerPoint Mobile. It is not envisaged in the current version of Windows Mobile 5.0 Smartphone.

StyleTap: Palm-running programs on Pocket PC company StyleTap has released the official version of StyleTap Platform 1.0. This software emulator that allows you to run applications developed by Palm OS, on devices running OS Windows Mobile Pocket PC. That is, Palm-like native programs work on communicators and handheld computers based on Windows Mobile. There is even a clipboard for bitmap images and text.

The first preview version of StyleTap has released a further 18 months ago, during the past period, was released in 1934 build, added dozens of new features and fixes a lot of mistakes. StyleTap Platform - is the first product in a planned series of programs with similar capabilities, will also create versions for Symbian OS and Windows Mobile for Smartphones.

StyleTap Platform 1.0 will be able to run most programs and games written for any version of Palm OS (including version 5). It supports all devices based on Windows Mobile Pocket PC (Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC, Windows Mobile 2003 Pocket PC, Pocket PC 2002 and Pocket PC 2000), including square and VGA-displays. Ability to work both in horizontal and vertical display mode. Supported such communication capabilities as Wi-Fi, to connect via serial port, USB, and IrDA and Bluetooth. The cost of a complete edition of the program is $ 49.95. Members who purchased preview version, can produce an upgrade for free.

Mobile AntiVirus 4.0: A new anti-virus system from the company Symantec Symantec, a well-known fighter with malicious code, announced the release of anti-virus system Mobile AntiVirus 4.0. It is designed for mobile devices running the Windows operating system Windows Mobile. Anti-Virus works with PDAs and communicators, as well as with smartphones based on Windows Mobile 5.0.As promised the developer, the corporation can not restrict their employees in wireless capabilities, without fear for the safety of important business information. Mobile AntiVirus 4.0 automatically protects mobile devices from all sorts of dangers in the information received by e-mail, MMS-messages, downloaded from memory cards, cellular network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or IrDA. The software will automatically update with the server Symantec LiveUpdate Wireless, to ensure protection against new viruses, trojans and worms. Centralized management system will enable administrators to set security policy, configure, and even block the mobile device, using the center console. It is expected that the new anti-virus system will be available in the second half of November. X-button will close the program on a Pocket PC from HTC to just close the program on the X button in the Microsoft operating system for handhelds and smartphones not originally envisaged, that does not like many users of such devices. To implement this feature, managers have to install a variety of tasks from third-party software developers. Company HTC, apparently decided to end the suffering of those users that are unhappy with the current X-button situation. There are reports that all devices from HTC, running the operating system Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC with Service Pack AKU 3.2 and above, will be pre-application "HTC Task Manager". As one of the options that the manager will be offered to allow the closure of programs on the button X. It is not only understandable, will include whether a category of devices from HTC "camera version, designed for platform-based HTC.

Mobile phone with two OSes - almost a reality Japanese giant NTT DoCoMo announced a new specification of the mobile terminal OSTI (Open and Secure Terminal Initiative), co-developed with Intel. If you work on a PC is not difficult to put a new system or even make different sections for various systems and switch between them. In mobile devices, all is not as easy as one would like. Development will set up mobile phone far more flexible than before - can not only install applications to your liking, but also put additional operating systems. Specification provides an open section that is separate from the section "default", which contains pre-installed operating system and applications. Special controller lets you switch between sections. As an example of such a system provides an opportunity for corporations to establish an open section of the browser, scheduler, as well as means to ensure safety. Ability to switch to the section "default" will continue to use the phone if in the open domain problems started. Also, switching easily done when receiving or making calls.

Smartbar: Today screen plug-in multi-company Teksoft has released a program called Smartbar. This versatile plug-screen Today, including acting as a task manager.Among the features and options: the toolbar in the style of Windows XP, the possibility of this closure, and interaction with the programs, the desktop in Windows XP style with custom background images, and content, the battery charge and time, the panel Smartbar can be moved and positioned along each of the four sides of the screen, multi-screen keyboard, among the possibilities: the combination of buttons for fast typing, speed dialing, and other actions; tool for creating screenshots (JPG, a series of screenshots and sound alerts), task manager, provides information about running programs (one for each - name, number of memory, open a window and so on), network manager - Testing and troubleshooting of network and Internet connections.

The program is designed for devices based on operating system Windows Mobile 2003 and Windows Mobile 5.0 Pocket PC, with a display resolution of QVGA (320x240 pixels). The cost of a complete revision is expressed in the mysterious "loan" (200 pcs.) That can get registered on the site users. Demo version, however, is provided.

The beta version of SmartCom Navigator for UIQ 3 Russian developer Wild Mobile (Smartcom Ltd.) has released a beta version of navigation software SmartCom Navigator for PDA-based platform UIQ 3rd edition (P990, M600 and W950). SmartCom Navigator - it's easy to use program with an intuitive interface that turns your mobile device into a powerful navigation system. You can use the program and without GPS-receiver, for example, to view the maps on a trip to the nature of business or sightseeing around an unfamiliar city. For convenience, all functions are divided into thematic menu with access to use in one or two clicks. One of the features of the program is compatible with the maps and data files of OziExplorer and SmartComGPS (can read files. Plt,. Wpt,. Map,. Names). The beta version is free. The full version of the finished version for Symbian-smartphones based on S60 (including the third edition), and UIQ are $ 25. Spb Diary has been updated to version 2.1 of the Company Spb Software House Spb Diary to update the program to version 2.1. Spb Diary - a plug-screen Today, to appear on his information in the calendar, tasks, contacts, notes and messages. Spb Diary makes it easy to work with the program Pocket Outlook, gathering all of your PIM-data. In the version of Spb Diary 2.1 adds support for e-mail client FlexMail 2007, use hardware buttons to search for contacts and notes, is also possible to search using the letters of the Greek and Hebrew, implemented tracking of conflicting objectives. Also fixed some bugs and made some other improvements.

The program is still designed for PDAs and smartphones running operating systems, Windows Mobile 2003 or Windows Mobile 5.0. The cost of the full version is $ 19.95. Registered owners of previous versions of Spb Diary 2.x can upgrade for free to produce.

Hard-panorama of the week

FCC has approved a new internet tablet from Nokia Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved a new internet tablet from Nokia, which has not yet been announced by the company, but managed to flicker in the rumors. Last week, the network has a photograph of that device, and quite a bit of preliminary information about the characteristics. Unfortunately, due to the traditional requirements for confidentiality, FCC issued no means all documents and provided very limited information about the next new product. Nevertheless, some interesting facts about fish out of the test report is still possible. Firstly, it is really internet tablet, rather than, for example, GPS-navigator, as already announced Nokia 330, because the FCC documentation, he said so. In addition, the device supports wireless WLAN network interface and Bluetooth. Photo was not published, FCC had to confine washy sketch the outlines of the device. However, this outline is similar to that live picture, leaked earlier in the network. BlueBird BM300: advanced fine handheld Among the total domination of communicators, from time to time there are advanced models of handheld computers with very attractive characteristics. Korean company, BlueBird has announced the imminent start of sales of its handheld BM300. The device has a stylish glossy plastic, the thickness sostvalyaet only 13,8 mm. Novelty is equipped with built-in tuner T-DMB, enabling you to view TV programs in digital format. Touchscreen BM300 has a diagonal 2.8 inches at a resolution of 320x240 pixels and can display up to 262K colors. Built PDA CPU Intel PXA 270 520 MHz and has 64 MB of RAM and 512 MB ROM memory.

Communication capabilities new items are wide enough for PDA of course, there are Wi-Fi (802.11b / g) and Bluetooth-adapters, as well as infrared. Memory can be expanded through card slot SD (supports SDIO). Another special feature is that it has a USB-host. Powered PDAs running Windows Mobile 5.0. BlueBird BM300 sale in Korea will begin in November. Butler: compact, modular butler in accordance with the name of Butler, "Butler", an original concept of the mobile device, the ideal assistant in the house. With the help of the device can control temperature and lighting in the house, manage e-kitchen utensils, switching TV programs, control the playback of movies, music and so on, without having to carry around a dozen remote controls.

In addition, the device supports the connection of modules that extend its functionality. Miniature printer can print a note or prescription, and by connecting a microphone, speaker and camera can make cell phone calls and even conduct a video conference. A convenient form makes it easy to hang Butler on the wall in the kitchen or even in the bathroom. Conceived as a special flair gives subtle solutions. Of course, this is only a concept, the possibility of commercializing Butler information is still lacking.

Lowrance iWAY 600C: navigator for land and water company announced a Lowrance GPS-navigator with the index iWAY 600C. The device is equipped with a 5-inch touch screen with a resolution of 640x480 pixels. Large set of software recorded on the built-in iWAY 600C hard disk 30 GB. Depending on the region, detailed maps for navigation may take up to 25 GB of free space, the other 5 GB reserved for storing multimedia content. Navigation capabilities, both on land and in water spaces. Navigator is capable of playing video and audio files of popular formats. In addition to this new product can be used as an album to store digital photos. Among the features new items as a FM-tuner. Sales Lowrance iWAY 600C has already started for about $ 800.

Not a second of silence in the car with Motorola T605 Integrated Bluetooth-enabled device from Motorola T650 connects your car stereo with MP3-player and mobile phone simultaneously. Stereo with MP3-player can be transferred to the T605 as on an audio cable 3,5 mm jack and Bluetooth 2.0 on the interface with the profile A2DP. Mobile phone use T650 as a Bluetooth-handsfree system. A key feature of novelty is a function that automatically shut off the music at the beginning of the call, and including it back when the user hangs up. Thus, motorists will get rid of the need to perform complex switching in connection with telephone calls. In addition, motorists, music fans can be sure not to get wasted a single second of music, even for the most important call.

T605 supports profiles A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile) Headset, and Hands-free. Novelty can communicate with the phone as having a function of MP3-player, and with two separate Bluetooth-enabled devices. Motorola will pay attention to the presence of T605 support technology EasyPair, allowing easy to configure Bluetooth-connection. Motorola promises that the new product will be available in the first half of 2007. Not yet received accurate information about the expected price of any device, any of its detailed features, but it is already clear that the T605 is aimed at serious competition with devices such as the Parrot MK6000.

Business panorama of the week

Communicator GSmart i won the G-Mark Company Gigabyte Communications has won a prestigious award from JIDPO (Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization, a Japanese organization of industrial design) in the contest "Good Design Award 2006", also called "G-Mark". JIDPO noted communicator GSmart i, developed by Gigabyte. "G-Mark", "Award for Best Design," held in Japan annually since 1957. This year the competition was put forward in 2918 of products in different categories. Among the winners was named communicator GSmart i. He has been awarded for the design in the category "Mobile phones and mobile products."

From a design standpoint, GSmart i combines simplicity and elegance with an information and entertainment functionality. Communicator is running an operating system Windows Mobile 5.0. One of the highlights of the device is the availability of built-in FM-tuner and analogue TV-tuner and 2.1-megapixel camera. In addition to cellular networks, GSM / GPRS wireless networks it supports Wi-Fi. GSmart i, was released on sale this spring. It should be noted that the first device of its own brand Gigabyte has released not so long ago - just at the end of last year. The more pleasant the confession. M600 + Navigation Pack - low-cost navigation solution company "MakTsentr" announced sales of new navigation solutions M600 + Navigation Pack. Price set M600 + Navigation Pack online stores MakTsentr - A computer in the palm of just $ 625. Kit includes: PDA M600 + L (ABBYY Lingvo 11 in kit), Bluetooth GPS-Receiver Holux GPSlim236, navigation system PocketGPS Pro.

The navigation component of the kit - it's GPS-Receiver Holux GPSlim 236 and system PocketGPS Pro. Holux GPSlim 236 meets all modern standards. In its basis - the chipset SIRFstarIII - guaranteed speed and precision positioning. Longer battery life up to 10 hours. PocketGPS Pro - one of the most detailed maps of Moscow and the region with a street name, house numbers and a convenient address search. The program has 2 modes, so it will be convenient both for experts and beginners. In addition, the system can be used as a reference for finding useful infrastructure (gas stations, stores, drugstores, etc.) The owner of new items to save $ 140 by buying a GPS-receiver and a navigation system at a discounted price. The new iPod Shuffle comes in selling this event music fans all over the world waited for one and a half months. Already on September 12, when an industry leader players - the company Apple - announced its new model of iPod Shuffle, it became apparent that the entire region expects a qualitative leap. As promised Apple, is this Friday, November 3, music fans around the world to assess a new level of portability, demonstrated by iPod Shuffle. In Russia, the new iPod Shuffle will be delayed, hopefully not too big. Characteristics "clothespin with player" is not too far from the truth. iPod Shuffle has a small size, close to the record - 41h27 mm. The clip that he fastens to your clothes, it's almost the biggest part player. Weight - 15 grams, that has not stopped developers to put in the player gigabytes of flash memory interface and USB 2.0. As reported in the announcement, the recommended price of iPod Shuffle is $ 79, which is not much for such a revolutionary device. This cheapness is explained by the extraordinary simplicity of the player: no screen, simple control buttons, a pair of jacks, inevitable with such a size metal body - that is, in fact, that's all. Appearance of the player as an unusually modest and discreet. Obviously, the producer convinced in the ability-to-date iPod Shuffle sold on the idea of a clean, beautiful without obvesok. HTC profit grows by leaps and bounds company HTC, the leader at this point in the field of devices based on Windows Mobile, cheerfully reported about the impressive profit growth for the third quarter of 2006 compared to the same period a year earlier. In dollar terms, profit after taxes was $ 203 million, up 154% greater than the results of the third quarter last year. Such indicators as income for the first three quarters of the year and net income per share also reached record heights for the company. All this points to the success of the chosen development strategy. Recall that this summer's HTC started to produce products under its own brand.Given that just before the fourth quarter were issued for new devices, HTC rightly plans to see further growth indicators. The authors, translation:

IPAQ H5450: new leader?

iPAQ! .. How much of this word for the fans CCP merged: disgruntled American users write a petition, listing the huge number of flaws and shortcomings of these machines not cheap, and even send walkers in HP; Russian well - belong to the iPAQ gently and reverently, as an expensive stylish device, always preferring them to others. Indifferent in any case, no ... iPAQ in Russia more than the iPAQ. This is a landmark thing for those for whom the image - all domestic users as well as PDAs mostly people with money, then sold these cars, we are better than anywhere else. Perhaps very soon replaced by market leaders, PDAs 3800/3900 series, comes a new top-end PDA - iPAQ H5450, which we have already told in our news. In Russia, the machine will be officially until February next year, and therefore promise to review a "live" news until we can not. However, a pleasant way to parse this PDA to pieces to present to our colleagues, journalists from the site PocketPC Passion.

At first glance,

As befits cegodnyashnim hi-end product innovation from HP works on the basis of processor Intel XScale PXA250 with 400MHz and has on-board 64 MB RAM and 48 MB of flash ROM. Large transflective screen is still out of competition. Expansion slot for memory card standard SD / MMC with SDIO support can be used with the new iPAQ is not only more memory and peripherals. "All this was in the 39xx series - you might say. - Where is the innovation?" Knowing! It is unlikely that HP would release Steels machine, completely analogous predecessors. The new iPAQ now supports just two standard wireless - Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (802.11b) and is equipped with advanced infrared port (like some models from Sony). Among other things, the developers added a handheld scanner to identify the user by fingerprint. This beautiful original decision will certainly want to taste a potential user of the device - the people most likely secured, hryanyaschim in PDA valuable personal information. But that's not all. It turns out that the new product will fall jackets fit the earlier models of iPAQ, that is to empower handheld can be a good idea to save on the condition that you, of course, there are those same jackets ...:) At the first boot immediately notice the logo of HP, not characteristic of the series iPAQ. Black "cap", which is hidden away in a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, now covers most of the "head" Pocket PC. Thus, developers have reserved space for three additional indicators of activity - actually for the two above and one unused. It can be assumed that the latter is intended to indicate the operation of additional modules.

Changed and the overall layout of the elements of the CCP. Screen, hardware buttons to launch applications, navigation joystick had to press to leave room for a fingerprint - a unique element iPAQ, which we describe below. It seems the only thing that frustrates - is the weight of H5450. He went out of its larger and not without a little predecessor. Cudite yourself:

Model	HP iPAQ H3970	HP iPAQ H5450
Dimensions, mm	135 x 84 x 16	138 x 84 x 15.9
Weight, g	190	206

Source of Life

It is no secret that the batteries in today's models of handheld computers not only allow you to increase battery life the device is directly proportional to the user's discretion, but rather quickly, in just a couple of years, are deteriorating. By the time the producer can either just forget about the existence of such a model, or fail altogether. Benefit, HP decided to equip the new product with a replaceable battery 1350 mAh (Lithium-Polymer, 3.7V). In order to avoid energy crises on long trips for H5450 is possible to purchase an additional battery capacity of 2.500 mAh. It is interesting that HP is thoroughly taken care of keeping user information. So, H5450 has in its arsenal, the so-called built-in Backup battery, which will save the data entered in the memory for a few minutes required to change the main battery. Novelty in terms of power consumption is also interesting in that it can be powered via USB via cradle or cable. Thus, the iPAQ can be recharged via a passive and USB-hub. During this process do not have to de-energize other devices (like printers or scanners), as the PDA will automatically detect the type of hub and properly distribute the energy consumption without causing overload USB.

Down the wire!

H5450 - not the first PDA, equipped with a built-in Bluetooth. However, this option in the new iPAQ is much usovershenstovana from the software point of view. Utility called Bluetooth Manager makes it possible to:

exchange of contacts, dates, calendar and tasks with other Pocket PC-PDA with a Bluetooth
exchange electronic business cards
file transfer
access to dial-up'u
synchronize with a computer equipped with Bluetooth-adapter
interaction with Bluetooth-mobile phone
connection with Bluetooth-network
work with the Bluetooth-headset
print to a Bluetooth-Printer
establishment of personal wireless network to communicate, network games and other things.

Also in the program stuffing for Bluetooth added new services and connectivity wizard Bluetooth Connection Wizard. Testing of all innovations, it was decided to hold with the help of Bluetooth-headset Jabra BT200, which is perfectly paired with a cell phone SonyEricsson T68i. Testing showed delicious visibility configuration wizard, which allows for a step by step configuration of the Bluetooth-connection. Experienced users who have dealt with debugging this function in the older iPAQ, will evaluate all the advantages of the new Bluetooth Connection Wizard. Feedback from early users, the work of Bluetooth-module H5450 intricate yet be called perfect, but on the other side before in their possession was only a passing terstirovanie sample - a beta version and not the final product. Another feature of the new software has an option Profiles. With it you can quickly change the profile settings for a specific situation that often is necessary. H5450 wireless features are not limited Bluetooth'om. New also has a built-in Wi-Fi (802.11b) - module, which is sure to make a model popular among corporate users. Configuring software for this source of wireless goods carried through profiles that, as in the case of Bluetooth, very easy to use technology. Creating a profile also should not cause much difficulty because of the use of an intuitive wizard settings Profile Wizard. Profile setup wireless functions naladonika - a flexible solution, especially convenient for frequent business trips, during which constantly have to change the codes of networks.

User Identification

The system scans the fingerprint is a unique feature that is implemented only in a new iPAQ 5450. Fingerprint verification CCP will uchinyat anyone who would dare to encroach on the landlady's data. Scanner itself is on the front panel under the navigation joystick. In view of the joystick had to be reduced. If the 3800-th and 3900 th series, its diameter was approximately 1 inch, but now he was half that.Certainly, many will think, and not affected by whether this ergonomics. Indeed, to use a joystick for games was not as convenient, but overall this catastrophic shortage can hardly be described.

Usefulness of the scanning module of H5450 must first assess the corporate niche market where reliability is important not only protection but also its usability. In the case of the H5450 are all present. So, after a brief workout newfangled system can be used, if necessary, combining it with standard features for writing code. Moreover, the system can be configured so that some time after cessation of use of PDA, it was switched off and went in safe mode. If you need to revive the PDA can be just touching his scanner. Developers reasonably believe that such technology can be particularly proud of any owner iPAQ H5450, and we would add - the Russian owner ...)

Multimedia

The speaker is handheld, as in previous models of this series iPAQ located under the black "cap" on top of the device. As for its setting, here at your disposal and the bass and treble. Also, now you can programmatically disable the built-in amplifier in order to save electricity, which in the case of a PDA is never enough. Location of built-in microphone in the new iPAQ is different from previous models: it can be found at the bottom of the PDA to the left of a fingerprint scanner. Moreover, it has a hole on the front side and bottom.

Another new feature H5450 - hardware volume control. Former Button Rec, located in the upper left side of the device, now has three functions - zoom in and out of sound (off by prolonged pressing "-"), and after long-term retention - a record. Because of the Wi-Fi antenna jack has been moved closer to the ground in the left corner of the device. This rearrangement means that the H5450 is not compatible with many existing covers. Headphone jack has been redesigned so that now passes through it, not only output a stereo signal, but the input audio signal through an external microphone. Given the possibilities of new technology VoiceOver IP (Voice over Internet connection), as well as a large number of applications that work with sound and its recognition, the presence of an external microphone, you can better recognize the tangible advantage of the new device. Concluding multimedia paragraph worth mentioning and vibration call H5450. Feedback from early users, its task it copes well, however, that cover the PDA may be slightly dampen vibration.

Feast of flesh

The software supplied with the devices from HP has never satisfactory. In this respect, the novelty is no exception.With the machine, other than the office suite and e-mail client, the buyer receives the following applications:

IPAQ File Store - use flash memory for user needs
IPAQ Task Manager - allows you to quickly open and close programs
IPAQ Backup - Backup to memory card and, if necessary, restore the data from the card
IPAQ Image Viewer - view graphic files
IPAQ Audio - Bass, treble, and the inclusion of the above-mentioned power saving mode
Nevo Universal Remote Control makes the iPAQ H5450 into this remote control for all kinds of electronics, equipped with an infrared port
Various small utilities that are responsible for energy-saving features, a self-diagnosis and so on.

Also included with the Pocket PC comes a CD with various software and links to alternative software. Moreover, some of the programs represented on the disc are the full versions, well behind the rest have to pay. For the hungry is a table which lists all the software that came with this device.

Microsoft software

Windows Mobile 6: The wait is very long

Undoubtedly, the most significant for the world's Windows Mobile devices, last week became the "announcement" a new version of the operating system. In quotes, because as such, the announcement took place today at 3GSM Congress. However, the information that looks quite official poured into the network like an avalanche is already a week before the event. At the site of Microsoft at the time any statement and details were not, except for clearly accidental, occurring occasionally, small references to related sites. This discrepancy can be explained by only one - Microsoft is really getting ready to announce Windows Mobile 6 at the opening of 3GSM Congress, but some journalists did not wait for the release date and posted the information up, including screenshots and it is official, previously scheduled. In this case, the company itself as something too, even pointed out carelessly: circumstantial evidence leaves the future of the announcement, and a little later in the blogs and the staff on site for developers has become possible to meet the description. In fact, we have to deal with the acquiescence of Microsoft to such dissemination of information and tacit recognition of the accomplished "announcement". On the one hand, it is not confirmed by official data, on the other - a rich food for thought. We summarize what is known so far about Windows Mobile 6, has previously acted, codenamed Crossbow.

Mobile panorama of the week, issue 13 February

First, the names of versions of Windows Mobile Smartphone, Pocket PC and Pocket PC Phone will go into the past, the new version of the operating system is already split on the Windows Mobile 6 Standard, Windows Mobile 6 Classic and Windows Mobile 6 Professional, respectively. Standard version is designed for devices without a touchscreen. In this case, applications designed for Windows Mobile 5.0 compatible with the new version of the operating system. In memory of all the Windows Mobile 6 devices installed library. NET Compact Framework 2.0 Service Pack 1 (SP1) and Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Compact Edition.

Potestirovashie platform or just get information about her lucky, in addition to changing the appearance that catches the eye, say such innovations. In general, reported the highest levels of comfort, better performance and so on. Of the particulars mentioned the following. The opportunity to view emails in their original format HTML, with links to all the original formatting and the like, as if viewed on a letter to the PC. Also for e-mail client have been added several available in a single click options, including the "reply to all", setting marks, moving messages into subfolders, and delete. Are enabled Windows Live, which includes instant messenger Windows Live Messenger, and Windows Live Mail, Live Search and Windows Live Spaces. One of the most enjoyable for many ordinary users of innovations - Call History is now arranged more conveniently, in fact, it is integrated with information about each contact. In the version for smartphone is now included Office Mobile with the ability to edit and create documents. Were reinforced security functions and remote control device, enhanced integration with servers Microsoft Exchange, Direct Push Technology is supported by all devices based on Windows Mobile 6.ActiveSync synchronization tool replaced with a new Windows Mobile Device Center, which provides both traditional sync PIM data, and more simple to work with multimedia content. Calendar has been improved, including a calendar strips marked free and already a busy time for easy tracking. New built-in application designed to allow easy smartphones (one click) installed as a modem via a wireless Bluetooth, and on a wired connection. This, of course, not all innovations, but so far mostly to their list.

Thus, as we see on the preliminary information, some dramatic, qualitative changes are virtually none. There is a trend towards convergence versions of smart phones and devices with touch screens, but this face is still not completely erased, leaving from such a division is expected in the next version of the Crossbow - Windows Mobile Photon. Nevertheless, the inclusion of the standard specification of the native Office Mobile can not but rejoice. However, before we draw final conclusions, let's wait and see what he would say about their new product itself is Microsoft. Incidentally, the exhibition will not only be a new version of the operating system, but also announced new devices are based on it. Given the amount of information about Windows Mobile 6, has penetrated the network last week, much has to satisfy the curiosity of the public, namely new items from device manufacturers are likely to be the most tidbit on the upcoming presentation. Now we know that the new device immediately announce a few manufacturers, which, however, not surprising, because the significance of 3GSM Congress on a scale of one year is traditionally very high. Roughly the first of them will reach consumers in the second quarter of the year.

ASUS Aura: a rumor of the week or the birth of a new myth

In the run-up to 3GSM Congress, everyone is waiting for new from the manufacturers. The network flies sometimes very unusual and strange information which may or may not be true. It remains only to compare data from various sources, use logic and try not to swallow the bait. However, the latter quite officially presented new items over and over again make sure that an idea that seemed unreal, is simply obliged to remain forever at the concept stage, can easily become a reality. This, of course, only increases the frustration when it turns out that the next hearing has not come true. A striking example of this is appearing on the last week information and images of the concept under the name ASUS Aura. News about the concept quickly spread through the network. The author's ideas gave something to meditate, admiring the endless possibilities of modern technology. Think about it - unless you can remain indifferent to the device has incorporated one of the main advantages of the iPhone cult, and plus there are many more.

The device called the PDA, but also knowing the habits of ASUS, you can safely assume that this is a Windows Mobile device of the future. The device gave a huge 3.9-inch touch screen, mobile unit with the usual control buttons, as well as sliding side QWERTY-keyboard. The device must support the work of a "telephone" mode - the phone is oriented vertically, the module with the buttons moved to the screen, the bottom of the screen simulates a numeric keypad. The second mode - the mode PDA - module with the buttons moved to one side and to the user provided the whole touch screen is not divided into parts. The device can operate in third generation networks and supports HSDPA. In addition to all - built-in camera of 2 megapixels and a slot for memory cards microSD. Communication capabilities in addition to the cell - Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.0 and miniUSB.

Ask what is there really so strange and unreal? Drumroll! Thickness of the device should be as low as 6 mm! Overall dimensions - 97h49h6 mm. We explain at the moment a record fine unpretentious one-piece phones (not communicator) for GSM networks barely struggling to overcome a 6-mm threshold (Samsung is about to submit to 5,9 mm model), and even then, some of them with a camera is thickening. Next go solid fly in the ointment. In such settings, the device is obtained several times smaller than current HSDPA-enable chipset. In addition, when this thickness is actually divided into two parts, body and insert a slide-out keyboard there, to put it mildly, problematic, even if we ignore such nuances as the strength of the device, and if we take into account the rest of the alleged possibility, then the problem turns out unrealistic. Of course, science and technology are advancing by leaps and bounds, the competition again has not been canceled, and it is quite possible that soon the dimensions of the HSDPA-device significantly decreased in comparison with modern specimens.

Hope for the future would still be possible if the "concept" is based on real support for the Taiwanese manufacturer and contain more than just a 3D-graphics look and PDF with the same pictures, plus a few details about the characteristics. However, the author of the concept behind the "Hungarian design studio Egy Studio», is seems to be just another dreamer with a vivid imagination, mastered a couple of computer programs to work with graphics.It should be noted that this was not his first job - out of his pen, that is, the mouse came out, such anxious public last October, "concepts" as Sony Ericsson Zeus and Siren, too, by the way, with a touch screen. By his own admission at a forum devoted to discussion of Sony Ericsson Zeus and Siren, it's really only concepts made with Corel and 3D Max. Inspired by the author of this after seeing the concepts of Black Diamond (already released a very limited extent) and the Nokia Aeon. Lastly, it is impossible not to draw attention to the fact that in itself such a work there is absolutely nothing wrong, and if you know what you're dealing with, even amusing and instructive to study such work. In fact, many leading manufacturers, the same as Nokia, for example, regularly organize various competitions for the design, which are caught with good ideas and such talent here. So, ultimately, everything is just win.

3G-smartphone and navigation communicator serednyachek: homework at 3GSM on ASUS

The company ASUSTeK Computer, of course, prepared something new for the 3GSM Congress. That this will be, we will be able to learn up on this week, but for now content with a fresh portion of spying on the two upcoming updates from the Taiwanese manufacturer. Live pics and specs posted online resource GPSAndCo. It should be noted that the descriptions given to them many things cause confusion and doubt, but in any case, it is valuable information for consideration. All the more so if the specification is controversial points, the pictures look quite believable and credible. Also there is a picture on which to compare future innovations with the recently submitted ASUS P735. ASUS P526 - according GPSAndCo exactly be called a model, also known under the code name ASUS Pegasus. The first information about this model was found at the organization's website iF (International Forum) Design Gallery prestigious IF Product Design Award. You could see two small image, as well as learn about the subtleties (15,4 mm) models support GPS, and the presence of a 2-megapixel camera. Thus, we get the continuation of the ideas Communicator ASUS P525 - candybar with a numeric keypad and touch screen, but in a more subtle version, with less conservative and solid design, as well as with the GPS module on board. Well, it looks quite attractive. However, if data GPSAndCo prove true, then the ASUS P526 will surprisingly weak solution for this manufacturer. For example, according to a source of novelty does not receive the support of wireless networks Wi-Fi. Until recently not really had communicators having just two advantages - Wi-Fi and GPS, but before the end of last year, several manufacturers, including ASUS released communicators, possess these talents. Thus, if the ASUS P526 has integrated support for Wi-Fi, it is actually a step backwards. Has also been reported markedly weaker than that of ASUS P525, the CPU - clocked at 200 MHz vs. 416 MHz. It should be noted that the use of OMAP processor from Texas Instruments, in principle, is not typical for ASUSTeK, adherent XScale from Intel. It is strange, and from that point of view, the model navigation, although of course there are precedents for such decisions, a vivid example - a recent newcomer from HTC GPS-communicator P3300 (Artemis). Also declared support for not only the GSM / GPRS, but the standard EDGE - another unusual feature for ASUS products. We give full specifications ASUS P526, which he should have according to GPSAndCo:

GSM / GPRS / EDGE
2.8-inch display with QVGA (320x240 pixels), 65K colors
2-megapixel camera
Processor TI OMAP 850 200 MHz
Memory - 64 MB RAM and 128 MB ROM
Slot for microSD memory cards
GPS-module chipset based GPS SiRF III
Interface Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR
Weight - 130 gr.
Operating system Windows Mobile 6 (Crossbow)

As you can see in the list, the remaining possibilities are pretty standard for a new model did not represent an outstanding, not counting of course the new operating system Windows Mobile 6.0. Thus, if the source of all predicted come true, then we have a very unusual for ASUSTeK device. It may even seem that if this was not the budget, then, at least, the model of mid-priced (for GPS-solutions), as it were, ASUS P525 to a wider target category. In favor of this and attempt to make a thin solution and mediocre performance characteristics and at least a solid design, more focused on the broad mass of the lowly. Well I'm pleasantly surprised if GPSAndCo wrong and ASUSTeK will please its fans with something more productive and powerful. By the way, the estimated price, which says a source not so "average" - a maximum of 600 eur (around $ 780). It is a lot in the concept of an average price of the group does not fit, even with the complete set of navigation software and digital maps. It is expected that the placing on the market in April or May of this year. The second novelty of which the source said the information - this is ASUS P3xx (accurate labeling is not yet known). The model is a smartphone which has become in recent years been a familiar candybar with a horizontally oriented display and a QWERTY-keyboard. Presumably this will be a smartphone for third generation networks, respectively, as direct competitors can be considered such models as the Samsung i600 and have not yet formally submitted HTC S650 (Cavalier). However, both models can work not only in networks of UMTS (3G) but also in the high-speed standard HSDPA (3,5 G), should not also forget about the promised update model Motorola MOTO Q with support for HSDPA. Do ASUS P3xx also claimed only UMTS, with no mention of HSDPA. Maybe it's inaccurate, and probably not the same dislike to the ASUS standard EDGE. If fears are correct, then the model will lose potential competitors in terms of supporting HSDPA and EDGE. The remaining communications capabilities raises no objections, they are consistent with modern requirements. Well as to the merits of future innovations, of course, can be attributed not the usual 128 MB of memory ROM, and 256MB. That no one has Samsung i600, neither HTC S650. Nimble processor that, in general, traditionally ASUSTeK. In this regard, future innovation is not going to concede to competitors.

In the description and photos, which were presented GPSAndCo, there is one conspicuous discrepancy. Display declared a diagonal 2.8 inches, that is the same size that of the ASUS P526, but as seen in comparative photos, it differs in size in the smaller side. Thus, the advantage over their rivals in the amount of display ASUS P3xx not get it.

UMTS (2100 MHz) and GSM (900/1800/1900 MHz), GPRS class 10
2.8-inch display with QVGA (320x240 pixels), 65K colors
Front camera for video calls and a 2-megapixel camera
QWERTY-keyboard
Intel Xscale processor with a clock frequency of 416 MHz
Memory - 64 MB RAM and 256 MB ROM
Slot for microSD memory cards
Wi-Fi (802.11g), Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR
MiniUSB 1.1
Weight - 130 grams
Operating system Windows Mobile 6 (Crossbow)

Thus, if all expectations are met, we have a modern smartphone is definitely worthwhile, though not carrying something innovative. The only thing what ASUS P3xx can outshine the competition with a favorable set of circumstances - an operating system if it will actually work on Windows Mobile 6.0, and rivals some reason - no. However, this slowness of competitors would be very strange. What conclusions, do, of course, too early at least until the official presentation, which will be known the exact capabilities of the model, and will be adjusted such nuance as parameters of the battery and so on. Perhaps this model will be presented by the manufacturer later than the ASUS P526, since it is expected that the market for the novelty hit is not too soon - in about the third quarter. By the way at that time in Russia already promised to launch third generation services.

Communicators from Gigabyte: speed and a VGA-display

It seems that prepared for the exhibition and the company Gigabyte Communications. While official statements from it have been reported, but some information about the two updates already penetrated the network. This pair of communicators based on Windows Mobile. The first of these, supposedly named the GSmart t600, designed to strengthen the area with a TV-functionality. Recall that four of the five currently communicators Gigabyte as one of its major functions offer reception of analog or digital TV. It is expected that the GSmart t600 is equipped with a second model Gigabyte display with a resolution VGA. The first was GSmart i200, it was announced last fall, and as far as we know at this point, not yet on sale. In this regard, interestingly, guess whether the producer to make a larger display than the GSmart i200, whose diagonal is 2.69 inches. On the other hand, small displays can already be considered "corporate" style communicators from Gigabyte and the hope that the company depart from its practice during this time is limited and will give a higher resolution image clarity.Source rumor web site Geekzone, among the supported GSmart t600 broadcast standards generously indicates a range of - DVB-T, DVB-H, DAB and T-DMB. Such diversity in a single model is unlikely, most likely it will be different versions for different regions of distribution. In addition, states the ability to record TV programs. Regarding the second device at the moment we know even less. He is expected to be called the GSmart q60. It should become the first model from Gigabyte Communications, able to work in the 3,5 G-standard HSDPA. According to the source, it will be available optionally in a version with GPS-module and a version with support for mobile TV. Thus, the company and are not moving away from addiction to TV-functionality. However, the manifest and the second trend - greater attention to the treatment of the navigation model. Recall that the release of its first device with a GPS-module, the company announced not long ago - in late January. Based on the prevailing tradition of Gigabyte names, we can assume that the full names of these two versions (GPS and TV) would be different another symbol, most likely figure that was set based on «GSmart q60». As far as this rumor is true, should become clearer soon.

Briefly about other events of the week

Rumors panorama of the week

LG also announced the new Windows Mobile devices in the network has information that LG Electronics has developed a pair of new devices based on Windows Mobile. She had produced such a model, but they did not extend beyond the mother for the manufacturer of the South Korean market. The current design also is rumored to focus on the international market, including the U.S. and Europe. Introduced last year in the international arena line LG Chocolate phone has been very successful, and Windows Mobile news may well extend this series. As reported by Business Week, one of the models will have a touch screen and interface will be sharpened to manage through it, instead of a button. Probably, it is about the development of ideas phone LG PRADO, which was announced shortly after the iPhone has some similar qualities, including an interface that focuses on the touch screen. Have probably no surprise that the announcement is expected at the 3GSM World Congress. Issue also the first models expected to take place in spring.