Mobile panorama of the week. Issue 14 - April 18

Dutch Prime Samsung

The Korean company Samsung Electronics has often demonstrated in small-scale local events coming new items without the international grand announcement, followed by a press release, at least in English. As a result, there are reports of a network of local journalists c photos of new products and the most basic features that the company is not afraid to reveal. Company can be easy to understand - often lit up at exhibitions such as news and not make it to store shelves, they cancel, for whatever reason, and display models at a local exhibition should not be considered unambiguous promise of the manufacturer to release this new product in the foreseeable future. Last week in the Netherlands hosted an event titled TeleVisie 2008, and Samsung there note immediately six new mobile phones, among which was a Windows Mobile device and one Symbian-smartphones. Rumors about the Samsung i900 communicator excite the network since the beginning of this year. Messages about the mysterious "killer iPhone" appeared punctually, overgrown with more juicy details, but TeleVisie 2008, this model was first shown to the public, before it was impossible to even find live pictures only layout design, images created by the authors of news on the computer. From the technical characteristics of the Samsung i900 blamed the attractive features, including 3.5-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 240x400 pixels, 5 megapixel camera with autofocus, FM-radio, integrated GPS-module and so on. Despite the fact that in 2008 the public TeleVisie reported only some characteristics of Samsung i900, is now clear that not all expectations can come true. Confirmation of the technical characteristics of the note the following: operating system version of Windows Mobile 6.1, 5-megapixel camera, three-band networks, GSM / GPRS, a network of third-generation UMTS, wireless Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.0 interface and USB 2.0, the size 112h56x13 mm. Thus, already confirmed that we are not waiting for another phone on its own platform, Samsung, and this device, which, in contrast to the same Samsung F490, it will be possible to install standard software designed for the operating system Windows Mobile. Influence of positioning is not just a phone "is felt in the specifications, such as phones with proprietary interface Samsung Croix does not have wireless networking Wi-Fi, while the Samsung i900 that option. Then, the Samsung F490 has a non-standard resolution display 240h432 pixels, Samsung i900, it seems, will have standard QVGA (240x320 pixels): despite previous rumors of eyewitnesses have reported such resolution as the most probable. Emphasis on kommunikatornoy entity model gives hope for the support of navigation functions. While the company does not mention GPS-module among the advantages of Samsung i900, but the list of declared characteristics too brief, but almost all of the latest "smart" model, the Korean manufacturer equipped with a GPS-receiver. The issue with memory and has remained not clarified by - previously said about 8 GB of "expandable memory", but it was not clear whether it is a large amount of memory or are already accounted for the possibility of flash cards. At issue is to support high-speed standard HSDPA (up to 7.2 Mbps), FM-radio and TV-out. If Samsung F490 competes mainly with the LG Viewty (LG KU990), a direct competitor to the Samsung i900 so far is difficult to call. Stylish LG KS20 smartphone has a similar ideology in design, but it loses Samsung i900 on the quality of the camera - 2 MP to 5 MP. What about the rest of the functionality will become clear when Samsung officially announce the full specification Samsung i900. The second "smart" novelty from Samsung with TeleVisie 2008 - a smartphone Samsung L870, built on the platform S60 3rd Edition. Smartphone echoes the design of the flagship model G810, aimed at combating Nokia N95, but clearly refers to the middle class and is designed for those who do not need super-functionality. The same slider form factor, metal case, but instead of a 5-megapixel camera provides for a more modest 3-megapixel. Confirmation of the features include four-band networks, GSM / GPRS, third generation network UMTS, a 3-megapixel camera platform Symbian S60, FM-radio and sizes - 102h50h13, 5 mm. Journalists who were on TeleVisie 2008, also reported that the display has a resolution of QVGA, and the interfaces supported by Bluetooth 2.0 and USB 2.0. As is the case with the Samsung i900, here left a lot of mysteries about the characteristics. It is unclear whether sustained high-speed standard HSDPA networks and Wi-Fi, is there a GPS-receiver, what size display and more. Let's wait for the official announcement, which will clarify the situation.

ASUS P750: tuning with a soldering iron

Not so long ago PDA ASUS P750 learned to reflash to the display resolution VGA, an unofficial firmware for the activation of such a regime was created and published forum visitors Asus Mobile Club Russia. Soon after this momentous event in the same forum, the dispute erupted, whether it is possible to double the memory device to 128 MB. Of course, in the case of memory we are not talking about software apdeyte, and the hardware modifications. Display ASUS P750 was initially able to run in VGA, it does not need to be changed, and the RAM-memory device is really only 64 MB. Increased internal memory - it is even more trivial task, requiring not only mastery of the singer, and pretty much well the circumstances under development and the production model. This trick can be done with very little communicators, including such legends as the HP hx4700 and Qtek S100. Satisfiability problem depends on what platform a model used there a pair of memory chips, and other nuances, such as models with Samsung, it's not real. As it turned out, ASUS P750 is one of the lucky visitors to the forum Asus Mobile Club Russia managed to resolder chip memory, and then activate the software. Unlike the software to increase resolution, perepaivanie chip memory forever deprives ASUS P750 warranty, with extremely high risk of failure "upgrade". Bold experiment was put on an instance of the communicator, and so have already lost the warranty. After soldering two chips Quimonda two chip capacity of 512 Mbps was found that the software system is still only recognizes 64 MB of RAM, despite the hardware "capacity" scheme. Then came to the rescue creator VGA-update, managed to make a firmware that will recognize all 128 MB of RAM. The price of memory chips soldering Moscow craftsman was 2000 rubles.

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Of course, increasing the display resolution to quadruple capacity RAM asks itself, as well as an increase in processor performance, battery capacity and physical dimensions of the screen:) It is unlikely that the company ASUSTeK do not understand this, ASUS P750 is not just available with a resolution of only QVGA. Perhaps the producer is already preparing a more advanced model, which implements all these improvements.

T-Mobile + HTC: ghost 2

HTC is not only releases the device under its own brand, from time to time, it is interesting camera model. One such successful models of exclusive carrier in the past year proved to be a smartphone Shadow of the operator T-Mobile. It is a slider with a slide out keyboard hybrid, but, unlike the HTC Touch Dual, display, he did not touch. One of the main highlights of the model began with the same interface myFaves rate plan, which makes it easy to make and communicate with five selected subscribers, despite the limitations of Windows Mobile 6 Standard, in comparison with Windows Mobile 6 Professional. Already at the time of the October announcement of T-Mobile Shadow operator said that it is only the first step in a future line of smartphones. Profiling resource TmoNews (The Unofficial T-mobile Blog) published the first spy photos heir T-Mobile Shadow, conventionally called T-Mobile Shadow II. By design, the device is strongly reminiscent of the new communicator HTC P3470 (HTC Pharos), but the image on the screen and hardware buttons confirm that this is a smartphone without a touchscreen, as well as the first generation T-Mobile Shadow. The model clearly has inherited a slider, otherwise it would be very inconvenient to use, but the pictures with a protruding keypad module has not yet been published. What is the difference between T-Mobile Shadow II from T-Mobile Shadow, in addition to the design, also not yet known. According to one of the assumptions, T-Mobile Shadow II will be the first smart phone operator that supports the technology UMA, seamless roaming between cellular networks and networks of Wi-Fi. We'll wait for official announcement and details.

Team mobile halophyte

Company E-TEN Information Systems has announced the release within two to three weeks communicators glofiish M810 and M750. The debut of these models took place in February at the Congress of MWC 2008. Both are full-slider with QWERTY-keyboard and 2.8-inch touchscreen QVGA-display. Like the entire series glofiish, New supports wireless Wi-Fi, equipped with GPS-receivers for navigation functions, FM-radio and so on. The main difference between themselves - in support of glofiish M810 third-generation networks. glofiish M750 will be available in areas where 3G is not true, for example, in Russia. Glofiish M750 is a successor to the M700, and the Glofiish M810 - a budget analogue glofiish M800 with a streamlined design and a display resolution of QVGA. Soon begin selling the original chasofona EPOQ EGP-WP98. The model is positioned as the world's first phone-watch based on Windows Mobile (World's First Windows Mobile Wrist Watch Phone), but in reality it's not quite true.The specification stated that the model is based on the platform of Windows CE 5.0, that is, programs designed for Windows Mobile will not work correctly on this device. However, it is in any case would not be comfortable, especially considering the form factor of "Communicator." As well as other phones in the form factor of watches, EPOQ EGP-WP98 is equipped with a very small screen diagonal of 1.45 inches. Interestingly, of the total mass EPOQ EGP-WP98 stands out not only unusual software platform, and communications capabilities - in addition to the traditional chasofonov interface Bluetooth, here is claimed to support wireless networks Wi-Fi. The price issue is $ 630. Interesting news for fans of domestic manufacturers published by the newspaper Kommersant. According to a source in the near future the company Sitronics will release under its own brand of 3 models of mobile phones. This is not the first attempt to break into Sitronics phone market. She has already tried to sell mobile phones under the MTS brand in 2004 and under its own brand in 2006, but both projects failed. At this time Sitronics bet on the unusual features of models. It is expected that all three new items will be able to work with two SIM-cards. While such phones on sale is extremely small, but they have already demonstrated its relevance. It is interesting that the photographs submitted by Kommersant two models are definitely running the operating system Windows Mobile. If this is true, and no error occurred, then Sitronics will be one of the first publisher of Windows Mobile device has two slots for SIM-ki. Of course, Sitronics will not itself engage in development and manufacture of handsets, and will complete solutions of Chinese manufacturers, so such devices will also appear under other brands. According to Kommersant, release new products Sitronics is expected within a month. The authors, translation:

Big kid Toshiba e740

If two years ago, someone said that today on our tables will be computers with dvuhgigagertsovymi processors, I would hardly believe it. It is clear that technology is not standing still, it is clear that they, as a bird-troika rushing gallop. But not to the same extent ... Some servers, specialized graphics workstations, expensive corporate glands - this is okay. But the conventional machine for playing Quake? No, it's already too ... Meanwhile, heavy-duty (by the standards of yesterday), computers do not just stand on our desks, they are still cheaper and indecent. And even look ... how to put it delicately ... slightly inhibitory. Even more than two gigahertz. Even two and two-tenths. In short, give the three and no nails! Or all of five ... However, handheld computers that crazy race frequencies do not seem particularly concerned. I note separately - seem to be. In fact, it has long begun. In the depths of the "pocket" companies (which have, incidentally, the huge size) mature and are ripe fresh models of PDAs based on the latest processors Xsclale from Intel. While these newborn mastodon on the shoulder, moderate speed - up to 400 MHz. But they promise and more - 1GHz and beyond. What is a processor with 400 MHz? Natural microwave oven. Stuck in a trouser pocket, and you're not half ... gentleman ... No, do not worry. I was just solely for the sake of a witticism ... It is difficult to say which company will enter the market with a ready-made commercial product based on the Xscale first. But the fact that one of them would be famous with his PDA Toshiba GENIO e740, no doubt. Machine is almost ready for mass production. We can only wait for the announcement date sales, which supposedly is about to begin - whether in June, or July 2002. Unfortunately, official information about GENIO e740 is missing completely, we have to use rumors, leaks, idle chatter. And photos of the new machines, which in the Internet, though not heavily, but not empty. In short - are looking at.

Dancing from stove

For a start - a few respectful words about the Toshiba. I think everyone knows that this worthy company produces excellent laptops. Moreover, Toshiba laptops best of the best and, despite the considerable cost (more accurately - not the smallest), are in great demand not only in the west, but here in Russia. Some time ago, when portable computers were monochrome, and models with color screens only hatch infant eggshell, for many of us the name Toshiba has been synonymous with the word "laptop". Somewhere on the horizon loomed very very celestials - Machines IBM. And everything else, diverse and hopelessly Chinese seemed frivolous. Today everything is different. Next to Toshiba, a host of names (and IBM laptops have suddenly become quite affordable). But the computers in this well-deserved brand still enjoys the fame of reliable, well-designed cars. The very same company, among other things, produces other digital appliances such as digital cameras. Now we saw the Toshiba brand and PDAs (only we - Toshiba in this area is not new, but its cars to Russia has not yet reached). By the way - Digital camera Toshiba differ curious design. I'm talking about the most simple, amateur models. They are vaguely reminiscent of traditional film cameras made in Germany. A sort of monumental design with unlimited service life. Owners camera Toshiba confirms my opinion.

Toshiba e740

Design e740 special grace did not shine, and also resembles a thorough German technology (totally unexpected association - the eternal rangefinder Leica, while talking about completely unrelated things). Silver rectangular case with sharp corners. Lateral margins rounded. Appearance, in general, recognizable ... Something looks like a pocket PC from Aero Compaq ... Although this can be attributed to the enacted imagination. Location of Controls e740 nothing special stands out. The front panel of four lined up in a number of buttons - launch key applications.Between them "penny" manipulator - a sort of "pocket-computer" joystick, it is customary for owners of Pocket PC. The dynamics of a joystick, no, he passed to the right and guessed at their own reshetochki ... Yes, this is clearly not iPaq ... Although, maybe for the better? Memory (32 megabytes and 64 megabytes of continuing operations), screen (seems to be not reflective, conventional TFT with backlight nondisconnectable - apologize if wrong), microphone, navigation wheel (though maybe button - see a live, specify) - a complete gentleman set a la Pocket PC 2002. Operating system Pocket PC 2002, too. So there's no surprises. Unless, of course, do not take motor racing - Xscale PXA250 processor with 400 MHz, which should be managed with the programs of Windows CE, literally, with a whistle. Personal machine, yes? Wait, that's not all. The most interesting thing - to come.

Delicacies for gourmets

What is most encouraging - Toshiba designers listen to the voice of the people. And right along with the machine produce a stronger version of the lithium battery capacity of 3000 mAh (1000 mAh vs. regular battery). Moreover, the battery will not be further merged, as in other manufacturers' machines, and interchangeable. That is a more powerful battery would not increase the size PDA (only slightly - in thickness), and snaps into place full-time battery that clips on to the back of the computer from the outside. This powerful batteries in the handheld computers had ever meet. Why is it necessary? In normal use - for extending battery life (due to personal estimations not menee12 hours, if not all, 16). But in unusual applications - to power wireless module. But more about that shortly. Another nice feature - not merit Toshiba, and again finds reasonable adherence to rivals. I'm talking about two designated slots for memory cards and portable peripherals. The first slot - CompactFlash Type II. Direct rebuke to Hewlett-Packard, which builds its computers only slots CF Type I, do not allow the use of miniature hard drives charms Microdrive. Second slot on the e740 - "palmovsky" MultiMedia card / Secure Digital. Such a solution is used in the PDA Cassiopeia E-200. In practical terms, it is, firstly, open to owners of new cars available to the periphery of modern computers for Palm (for the same modules, Bluetooth). And secondly, can safely use the "card" devices are not deprived in this case the computer memory. In one slot inserts a card - network, modem, radioadapter, mikrovinchester, and the second - flash memory card. Wonderful, is not it? And here I must apologize ... I never figured out - whether the next 'feature' in the standard distribution Toshiba GENIO e740 or will sell separately. On the package image of this thing there ... But on the box of my machines (Cassiopeia BE-300, that it was healthy) is drawn so that I could hardly not to crack from the runup of happiness. It turned out - advertising ... This piece - attached is the bottom, to the system connector of the CCP, the universal module. Externally it is remotely similar to flash memory for the "smartcard" Palm m100 and m105, but the content is nothing in common. Multifunction module. It is equipped with mini-connector USB (need a special cable or adapter). With the help of machine can work with any USB peripherals, from keyboards and joysticks ... However, at the same Casio E-200 similar "feature" is a long time ago. But none of the connected devices do not work - no drivers. Casio the glory that does not spoil its visitors. Owners of machines have either by writing drivers, or accessed through the Internet to "good people". And both - well-established practice. True, Toshiba in such respect there is no reason to blame. This means that drivers will be (cautiously add - probably). The second function of the module - display video in a format VGA. Yes, e740 has a screen with a standard for Pocket PC resolution of 240x320 pixels and the external monitor displays 640x480. What gives? Very much. Plug-in to the system connector to attach USB keyboard to VGA (connector type is unknown to me, but should be standard) desktop monitor. And working with Pocket PC as a small laptop. And you can connect to the handheld video machine and make a public presentation.Or use an external adapter (or to find a TV to the input of VGA) and watch the slide show, videos on television. Or run on your TV "pocket" game ... Powerful Xscale processor, and will easily cope with the decoding of high-quality music and video playback. In any case, MPEG-4 for this computer - sunflower seeds ... And if you connect to the e740 "USB-shny" CD-ROM from the laptop? And if you run the video directly from the disk? I do not know if this is possible. But with such a functional diversity of doubt is becoming less and less.

Some amendments to the above

Mobile panorama of the week. Issue 21 April - 2 May

Diamond dreams HTC: fuss about the announcement

The closer the event becomes a London-based company HTC, so more and more intense there are rumors of updates that are worth waiting for fans of the manufacturer that day. Recall that on May 6, the HTC scheduled some event in London, which the press beckoning promise of "a new wave of innovation." Specialized resources on the network built a variety of assumptions about what new items will be presented - from large-scale extension of the successful HTC Touch to the semi-mythical Google Phone, one of the first smartphones based on the platform Android. Among the most likely contenders for the continuation of the line Touch is present just three impressive communicator. It is quite possible that May 6 will be presented to all of them. The most anticipated model is the HTC Touch Diamond. If the preliminary information will be correct, it will become the flagship of the series Touch. The model is also expected to as a carrier version called MDA compact IV and the O2 Xda diamond. By the way, the layout of MDA compact IV showed a glimpse of the operator T-Mobile in March at CeBIT in Hannover, but then not reported virtually no details, that only fueled interest in novelty. Among the characteristics mentioned standards support HSDPA / HSUPA data rates up to 7.2 Mbps, Qualcomm MSM 7201A processor clocked at 528 MHz, 2.8-inch display with a resolution VGA, built-in memory of 4 GB, 3,2 - megapixel camera with autofocus and flash, GPS-module, sensors like those used in the iPhone to automatically turn the picture depending on the horizontal or vertical position of the device. The model is designed to attract attention at first glance at the specification. When the device is very compact and thin - 99x51x10, 7 mm. As can be seen at an informal image, the company has worked on the design, in appearance can be traced the influence of branding Series Nokia Prism. At this time the rumors about the HTC Touch Diamond worrying few moments. Firstly, as a platform on which new works, indicates Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional, but the available images can be seen the hardware buttons, are traditionally used in Windows Mobile smartphones without touchscreen. Perhaps an error crept into the specification, which states that touch screen, or erroneous images. The most likely option, that the specifications are correct, but the inaccuracy is in the preliminary images of HTC Touch Diamond. This is supported by even the name - the main highlight of the Touch series is a firm finger-oriented interface TouchFLO. The second conspicuous oddity in the preliminary data on the Diamond - the battery is 900 mAh. With this functionality, 900 mAh - more than a modest figure. We can only wait for the official data and to dispel doubts. Communicator HTC Touch Pro, also codenamed HTC Raphael, is a slider with a sliding side QWERTY-keyboard. He is expected to have similar characteristics with the HTC Touch Diamond, the main two differences are reduced to another form-factor and a smaller amount of internal memory. The presence of the keyboard will affect the thickness of the device, HTC Touch Pro will not be as thin as the HTC Touch Diamond - 99x51x17 mm. As a precursor HTC Touch Pro can be viewed HTC TyTN II (HTC Kaiser), released late last year. Fans of this device were disappointed when it turned out that the display supports a resolution of VGA, with the release of HTC Touch Pro this will be finally resolved. Will be two versions of HTC Touch Pro for GSM and CDMA, respectively, there may be variations without the support of wireless networks Wi-Fi and GPS-navigation functions. It may be represented by another device of the same series - HTC Titanium and HTC Touch Dual Pro. This is the heir slider HTC Touch Dual, not equipped with a combination of hybrid and traditional QWERTY-keyboard. Features will be largely copied HTC Touch Diamond and HTC Touch Pro, the main difference will be reduced to the form factor vertical slider. On the other hand there is no guarantee that the sources of the rumors do not confuse it with the HTC Touch Pro and do not attribute the heir to the HTC Touch Dual redundant functionality. Confusion about the future quite a lot of new products, the information is contradictory and heavily cluttered, more confusion make camera version, slightly different from the originals, produced under the brand HTC. Communicators Diamond and Raphael should appear on sale in the second and third quarter of 2008, tentative release dates HTC Titanium not yet known. Interestingly, the Chinese newspapers with close ties with Taiwan manufacturers are already predicting a very high rate of sales of HTC Diamond - up to half a month initially and up to 4 million for the release of all time. HTC Touch Find - most budget and the most unlikely of the expected communicators. Compared with the parameters HTC Raphael and HTC Touch Diamond it looks even modestly. While it is difficult to say with certainty what exactly is it different from the communicator HTC Touch Cruise features in addition to design, preliminary data do not suggest some important characteristics, such as the processor and internal memory. At the moment it is known that the model supports third-generation network (UMTS / HSDPA), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, equipped with a display with QVGA, 3-megapixel camera, FM-radio and a GPS-module. According to some radical sources, this is not a new model, and one of the versions already available HTC Touch Cruise, just under another name. Along with the new communicators and smartphones is expected to introduce a new UI Manila, a modern heir to the finger-oriented TouchFLO.

Nokia 5320 XpressMusic: Music for the smart way

Nokia has officially expanded its series of music phones XpressMusic two novelties. Nokia 5220 XpressMusic - an inexpensive phone with an unusual "twisted" design and a strong emphasis on music capabilities. He is positioned as "music for the people" (music for the masses). The older model, Nokia 5320 XpressMusic, has been running on a platform of S60, users can enjoy all the advantages of a smartphone before the "regular phone". It is noteworthy that this is the first "smart" phone in a series of XpressMusic.

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Smartphone Nokia 5320 XpressMusic, as well as the Nokia 5220 has a special hardware button XpressMusic to control playback, 3.5-mm headphone jack, and is capable of playing music day and night without charge (24 hours). In addition to supporting music service Nokia Music Store, smartphone sharpened by working with other online services portal Nokia Ovi, including gaming service N-Gage. Gaming provides dedicated button and is supported by a horizontal game mode. It should be noted that support for the new generation N-Gage can boast, not all smartphones Nokia. Separate zest Nokia 5320 in functions Say and Play, through which users only need to utter the name of the artist or song to play. Despite the musical orientation, the smartphone is a middle price range. Excluding taxes and discounts on the recommended price it is 220 euros. It has a universal, but not outstanding, functionality. Among the characteristics specified quad band network GSM / EDGE, networks of third-generation WCDMA / HSDPA, a 2-inch TFT-LCD with a resolution of 320x240 pixels and 16M colors, stereo FM-radio with RDS. It will be released in the third quarter.

Nokia E71 and Nokia E66: first confirm

Rumors about smartphones Nokia E71 and Nokia E66 go on the network for quite some time and, after a burst of information at the beginning of the year, for some time quiet. Now they got a new life and may even be officially confirmed. Recall that both models belong to the business line, the Nokia E71 is also known under the code name Liam, and the Nokia E66, codenamed Dora. Nokia E71 seen as the heir to a monoblock with the QWERTY-keyboard, Nokia E61 (i). Nokia E66 - the successor of the slider E65. All indications are that the two new items will be presented to the company very soon. On the Nokia website already appeared UAProf-files for them. Profiles UAProf (User agent profile) is a XML-document containing the most basic characteristics of mobile devices that require providers to create compatible content. UAProf standard set and maintained the organization Open Mobile Alliance, the appearance of these profiles clearly shows that Nokia is going to release a smartphone in the near future. The profiles Nokia E71 and Nokia E66 interesting information for casual users are not so many, the main value of such data to confirm earlier rumors. In particular, confirmed the work on the platform S60 3rd Edition 3.1 (Symbian 9.2), displays with QVGA (a Nokia E71 in landscape mode), 3.2-megapixel CMOS-camera with a maximum resolution of 2048x1536 pixel sensor, support for cellular networks, GSM / GPRS / EDGE, UMTS / HSDPA and wireless Wi-Fi. Some profiles did not stop, courageous writers in the Chinese share mobile01 posted a few photos of fragments Nokia E71 and Nokia E66, giving a greater understanding about the appearance of smartphones. Interestingly, the first information about these updates appeared in the early years, but their exact characteristics are still not known. For example, does there are disputes about the size of screens, the most desperate optimists are hoping for the big 2.8-inch displays, but reliable evidence of this or that version has not yet been granted. Also uncertain time with or without an integrated GPS-module. To find out exact details will have to wait for the official announcement.

Team mobile halophyte

Platform Android, provided by Google companions at the end of last year, closer to the end consumer. Joy Sims (Joe Sims), vice president of T-Mobile USA, has enthusiastically talks about plans to release Android-smartphone in the last quarter of the year. However, for their general plans for the Wireless Innovations Conference 2008, a representative of the operator did not disclose any specific details about the technical characteristics of a smartphone. Also completed reception of programs in the first part of the Android Developer Challenge contest with a prize fund of U.S. $ 10 million, designed to stimulate the development of applications for Android and help promising newcomers. Of 1788 applicants, applications will select 50 finalists, each of which receives 25 thousand dollars. Subsequently, of them will choose 10 lucky ones who will receive 100 thousand dollars, and 10 lucky winners who will receive 275,000 dollars. Judge the competition by a jury of 100 people, most of them work in companies belonging to the Open Handset Alliance. First results fail in May. The prize fund will be divided equally among the winners of Android Developer Challenge I and the Android Developer Challenge II. The second stage of the competition will start only after the release of the first devices based on Android in the second half of the year. Mobile unfinished Skype has finally moved off dead center. Skype developers have started open beta testing VoIP-Skype client for Java-phones. Anyone can download applications from the site of Skype is committed free beta version supports the basic functions of high-grade Skype-client, including instant messaging, group chats, SkypeIn, SkypeOut and calls from Skype to Skype. At the moment, supported by almost 50 models of mobile phones. Some of the features yet have a regional restriction. Recall, the mobile version of Skype VoIP-until recently was available for Internet Tablet Nokia and Windows Mobile devices, users of smartphones and phones on other platforms had to solve the problem of VoIP-telephony using alternative VoIP-clients, such as fring. Version of Skype for Symbian-smartphones, developers promise to release regularly since 2005, but until the release never took place. Acer has already this year, will release its first Windows Mobile device, reported by the company president, Gianfranco Lanci (Gianfranco Lanci), in a speech to investors. While Acer produced exclusively handheld computers based on Windows Mobile, and successful experience in building Windows Mobile devices with wireless connection, it was not. Bold experiment will rely on the power known manufacturer E-Ten, the deal to acquire which will also be completed within this year. Specific details of future novelty it is not open, hinting only that Acer will focus on working with operators and sale of mobile devices through them.

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The authors, translation:

HP iPaq 3900 - a ray of light in the realm of PDAs

The two companies became one. Compaq, the second (while there) most popular manufacturer of handheld computers after Palm Inc., Seamlessly merged with Hewlett Packard and ceased to exist. However, not ceased to exist a series of very successful handheld Compaq iPaq. Now they will produce a unified organization under the name of HP, which on Tuesday and presented in Moscow, the first fruit of joint works - iPaq 3950 and iPaq 3970, the heirs of a popular 38th series. We have already briefly wrote about these models. The very fact that such a presentation, quite remarkable - the 39th has just appeared in the U.S. and Europe, less than a week as they are sold (and in some countries by reservation only), and Russia is already being devoted to their conference. A couple of years we can hope for simultaneous presentation with the world of new electronic assistants, and other high-tech innovations. First and, unfortunately, most of the press conference Paul Kuzmenko, manager of Hewlett Packard personal and mobile systems, dedicated new line of laptops Compaq Evo (Hewlett Packard plans to save some brand series of products, hence the name of the remaining Compaq). Evo N410c and Evo N610c prednazanacheny for the corporate sector and provide, according to Hewlett Packard, unprecedented reliability, performance. More detailed information on the insistence of the company shall not be disclosed until July 15 when laptops will be presented formally. It does not hurt, he would have liked! It is much more interesting was the computer, weighing 200 grams, submitted after the laptops.

Pavel Kuzmenko with HP iPaq 3970

So, HP iPaq 3970 (for a presentation brought an older model of the series) is made in exactly the same housing as the Pocket PC 3800 Series - metallic silver with a plastic black "blotches" on the top. Blotches on the way, painted silver the same inscription "Compaq", although Pavel Kuzmenko in Moscow and foreign representatives of Hewlett Packard is not in Moscow on several occasions emphasized that the new model is called the HP iPaq. Okay, the inscription on the case is not the most important thing, though, of course, could take care of it.

PDA Hewlett Packard Compaq labeled

The most curious, of course - "Iron" better than the previous series: Processor Intel XScale PXA250 at the core clocked at 400 MHz and a new "transflective" screen. Let's start with the screen because, as shown spinning machines in the hands and poke at buttons, just the screen is the most significant improvement. Transflective screen that is translucent, or, as it is called in the press release, "transflective". It has a backlight, which allows not only from the comfort of use typewriter in the dark, but easy to read text when exposed to direct sunlight. Chance to test a new handheld in the sun we have not yet been, but even indoors, in bright artificial light could be seen as brighter lights 39th series compared with that of the iPaq 3850. If the iPaq 3800 and stars are not worse than the heart of Danko in a dark forest, the 3900 can probably be used to repel an air raid.

Here she displays the difference!

In addition, five (!) Just increased the contrast of the screen (up to 70:1). This is perhaps not so obvious at first glance, but it still gives the impression that the picture has become clearer and more pleasant to the eye. Now for the "addition", provoked the most controversy.We are talking about doubling the processor speed (and generally changing the kernel). XScale is it worth your money? In the first week of sales in the U.S. 39th series costs about $ 100 more than the 38th. Just want to say that a detailed investigation of the presentation, where all the hungry journalists had only one handheld - 3970 - not be thought possible. On hand there were no suitable programs, and time was very small. So that all performance evaluation is given by eye. The system itself Pocket PC, that is, the user interface, this "eye" works the same way as on a typewriter 38th series. This means pretty quickly, but nevertheless, probably anyone would agree that one could still add. Soft reset on the 3970 takes about a second less than a 38th of the series, but most likely it is that on my 3850, which served as a benchmark for comparison, we have established a variety of programs and in particular the Dashboard, which is loaded when you turn instead Screen Today. Will almost certainly delay in loading caused by that fact. Menus, dialogs, open standard software (again by eye) with the same rate as in previous models. Well maybe for a split second faster. The only test that showed an obvious superiority of the new processor - the opening of a large volume file. Photographed until 3970, I uploaded it from my iPaq 3850 via infrared text files of just over 400 Kbytes, rebooted both machines (for the purity of the experiment) and opened the text (it was a "Portrait of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde) using Pocket Word. At the 3850 procedure took 21 seconds (up to ischeznovaniya screen indicator of employment) for 3970 to less than 6-7 seconds. Total performance gain of almost 30%. Conclusion: Overall this is so, as we mentioned in the news. By itself, the new XScale processor much more powerful than its predecessor StrongARM and where the burden falls solely on the processor is clearly visible. But running Windows CE 3.0 (with a user interface Pocket PC 2002) is completely optimized for use with this processor (it uses is different than in previous models, architecture). Therefore, when the daily work of the user is unlikely to enjoy much increased speed. But the faster the download large files and run multimedia applications. And two "iron" update. The model 3970 has noticeably increased the amount of iPaq File Store (Flash-memory available for user). It is 20 MB (out of 48 total). In the low-end model, as in the 38th series iPaq File Store is 6 MB. The difference in the 2 MB ROM (26 to 50 m and 28 to 70 m) is explained clearly by the presence among a set of programs older model Bluetooth Manager. In addition, the SD / MMC slot for both models 3900 series supports SDIO (Secured Digital Input / Output) and allows not only to expand the memory using the cards, but also to connect peripheral devices in an appropriate form factor. A few strokes to engineers past and the software part PDA. Most advertised "supplement" - a program Nevo, who works as a universal remote control of various home appliances: TVs, VCRs, music center, etc. Just a database of supported devices over a thousand titles in twenty different categories. Management is carried out, as with conventional remote control, an infrared port, the controller is in the 39th series has been changed to ensure stable operation up to 4.5 meters.

Control home appliances - the program Nevo

Innovation, of which less information, but that still is - it's regulation of sleep mode (Standby) and built-in image viewer iPaq Image Viewer.About the second program has nothing to say popolzovavshis it was no time, and the first lets you enter iPaq in low power mode to a user-defined period - from 25 to 100 hours. Here, in my opinion very useful, showing the approximate number of hours that "handheld" will be able to work without recharging the battery. Hopefully, this figure corresponds to reality. Without a detailed "licking" a new PDA with all sides to give him an assessment difficult. Nevertheless, it is clear that the iPaq again ahead of almost all the planets (except for Toshiba e740, which appeared a few days earlier). Perhaps the best that the developers have not changed the design. Still, most users found it quite attractive. New functionality vozmodnochti certainly will add appeal of a typewriter. The main issue - the price. Today Pavel Kuzmenko said that Hewlett Packard "will try to keep prices at the iPaq 3900 at today's value iPaq 3850 and 3870 (by the way, does it mean that prices for the 38th series of the bottom?). If it really is so, the machine with a powerful processor and an improved screen will become a big hit the market. If not (and yet in practice we see that the new PDA much more expensive predecessors), the consumer is certainly thoughtful and overpay him for that extra $ 100, especially if the thought of low productivity gains. Well, wait until mid-August. It was then that the company has promised to withdraw Hewlett Packard iPaq 3950 and 3970 on rossyisky market.

Yes shine 39th series on our horizon, that is, market

The authors, translation:

Mobile panorama of the week. Issue 4 - May 8

HTC Touch Diamond: a brilliant innovation

In London, May 6, HTC had a sensational announcement, clearly became the main event of the week. The press was intrigued before, in the sent invitations promised a whole "wave of innovation", so from the famous manufacturer of Windows Mobile devices were waiting a lot. Built a variety of assumptions about the nature of the "innovations" that are waiting for the world at the London event. Predicted a series of new devices, a successful series of Touch and the announcement of the first smartphone based on the platform Android. As it turned out, the debut of the Android-smartphone has not yet come, and instead of Touch-three new products was introduced only one. However, despite the fact that the presentation in London was entirely devoted to only one new product, no one was disappointed. HTC Touch Diamond has already gained the reputation of an important milestone in the development of Windows Mobile devices, and, apparently, quite deservedly so. On the one hand, HTC Touch Diamond logically continues the overall concept of the entire series Touch of HTC, on the other hand, takes her to a new level. From the outset, the main advantages of Communicators Series HTC Touch was the design, compactness and ease of use, based on the company's interface, TouchFLO, improves the standard interface of Windows Mobile. Design HTC Touch Diamond stands out from the general style of the series. Instead of round, smooth shapes are dominated by the straightness and more rigor. Trace the influence of image line of phones Nokia Prism, since we use a stylized "cut", however, this may be a coincidence given the similarity of "diamond" concept Nokia Prism and the new device. In size and weight of the HTC Touch Diamond is not inferior to the original HTC Touch, despite a markedly improved performance and functionality. Recall that the HTC Touch was in its time among the miniature model of Windows Mobile smartphones. Here are the values ​​of these parameters are indicated on the official website of the manufacturer:

• Dimensions HTC Touch Diamond: 102h51h11, 5 mm
• Dimensions HTC Touch: 99,9 h58h13, 9 mm
• Weight HTC Touch Diamond: 110 grams (with battery)
• Weight HTC Touch Diamond: 112 grams (with battery)

As can be easily seen, HTC Touch Diamond only slightly longer than its predecessor, but noticeably narrower and thinner. Weight is almost the same. The new interface TouchFLO 3D, which is used in the HTC Touch Diamond was previously known under the codename Manila UI. It represents the next step is to simplify the use of Windows Mobile devices, the possibility of transporting the original TouchFLO to the next level. The new version of the redesigned user interface, it now significantly more functional and impressive at first glance. Although seasoned specialists in Windows Mobile is guaranteed to choose to install your own set of programs for beginners, even those not familiar with a standard interface OSes from Microsoft, such as TouchFLO 3D add-in should be much easier to perform everyday tasks, including phone calls, mail, messages, music, Internet and so on. As before, the main task of proprietary shell - simplified access to key features, which does not require using the stylus. The first reviews describe the new interface as follows.TouchFLO 3D, unlike the TouchFLO, actually replaces the standard screen Today Windows Mobile, as a result of the shell does not need to step up, she immediately started from the moment the device. TouchFLO 3D has new start screen with a clock, information about missed calls and subsequent meetings. It also includes a custom list of contacts to speed dial numbers. Followed by tabs for SMS and MMS, and email. With photos and video are working on the next screen, incidentally, TouchFLO 3D is able to play video without launching Windows Media Player. Music tab displays all available tracks from the CD covers. Tab to work with the Internet browser Opera Mobile launches and displays the bookmarks. Tab displays the weather forecast, and you can track the weather in 10 cities. On top are the settings and the Programs menu, which can be partially set up and provide direct links to all available applications. In the HTC Touch Diamond uses a number of sensors, one of them allows you to automatically change the orientation of the display on the screen from vertical to horizontal when working with photo-viewer and browser Opera Mobile. TouchFLO 3D will be installed in all new model series HTC Touch. Upgrades HTC Touch, Touch Dual and Touch Cruise is planned for obvious reasons - increased demands on the hardware device for processing an animated interface and specific functions such as image rotation. How convenient TouchFLO 3D will be for end-users while it is impossible to say with certainty, for the final conclusions will wait for the tests. Hardware capabilities of HTC Touch Diamond does not make less impression than the interface TouchFLO 3D. This is the first classic by HTC with a screen resolution of VGA. Of course, HTC has already had experience in the production of devices with VGA-display, it comes to such monsters as the HTC Advantage X7500/X7510 (codenamed Platform Athena) and the HTC Universal, but they were not oriented to the mass consumer and not classified as habitual compact communicators, comfortable for everyday use. Among the advantages of new items - Qualcomm MSM7201A productive processor with a clock frequency of 528 MHz and a graphics accelerator, 192 MB RAM and flash memory of 4 GB, GPS-module, FM-radio, and a full range of communication possibilities on the support of cellular networks, GSM / GPRS / EDGE and HSDPA / WCDMA wireless networks to Wi-Fi (802.11 b / g) interface and Bluetooth 2.0 EDR. The camera is used rather skoromnaya by modern standards - at 3.2 megapixel with autofocus but no flash. Of the contentious issues are the lack of slots for expansion cards, memory, and a pretty big surprise cause the battery performance - capacity is 900 mAh. However, the claimed battery device on a single charge is acceptable and is noticeably larger than the same HTC Touch. As is the case in real conditions, tests show. Some sources have reported that the company plans to release a more capacious battery for the HTC Touch Diamond, but did not specify the details yet. It is also anticipated release versions with 8 GB and 16 GB of internal memory should comfort those who are 4 GB seem to be too modest. Main ideological competitors HTC Touch Diamond is not difficult to call. Firstly, this sensational iPhone, the parallels with this device can be traced even in the press materials of HTC. Take, for example, this one is easily recognizable frame: IPhone heritage can be seen in the finger-oriented interface, using sensors and even a lack of memory card slots, partly offset by a large amount of built-in flash memory. Like the iPhone, the HTC offers less freedom of choice, but greater convenience for novice users. HTC Touch Diamond has earned the title of the iPhone-like Windows Mobile device. If you take only Windows Mobile devices, there is the main competitor appears Sony Ericsson XPERIA X1. The first Windows Mobile device from Sony Ericsson built on the same platform, Qualcomm, and has a similar task-proprietary interface that focuses on the management of your fingers. The main differences XPERIA X1 in a larger display and higher resolution (3-inch 800x480 pixels), as well as the form factor of the horizontal slider, for whom he pays considerably large dimensions and weight. Interestingly, the HTC Touch Diamond - is just the first of a new generation of communicators Series HTC Touch, and by the time the XPERIA X1 in the sale of HTC can present version of the HTC Touch Diamond in a similar form factor with sliding QWERTY-keyboard. Because the timing of the issuance of the communicator Sony Ericsson rather vague, this scenario is quite real. It only remains to add that the release of the HTC Touch Diamond is scheduled for June in Europe, specifically in Russia, he should appear in July for a suggested price of 26,990 rubles.

Samsung i200: a modest business class

The next day, after a brilliant presentation of HTC Touch Diamond, took a modest announcement smartphone Samsung i200. This device is a completely different class, focused on those who need an inexpensive compact smartphone for work, in fact, the replacement of just a phone. Samsung i200 was first seen in February at Mobile World Congress 2008. The smartphone is slim, compact and fairly easy. It is made in the form factor of the classical piece with a numeric keypad. The work done on the basis of the new operating system Windows Mobile 6.1 Standard. Recently, manufacturers of Windows Mobile devices have been paying less attention smartphone segment, especially in such a simple form factor. Samsung i200 has a pleasant exception to this trend. In contrast, very low cost proposals, such as RoverPC R5, Ginza MS100 or HP iPAQ 514 Voice Messenger, he significantly more functional. The new smartphone equipped with a 2.3-inch display with QVGA (240x320 pixels) instead of 2-inch display at 220x176 pixels for RoverPC R5 and iPAQ 514, 2-megapixel camera, instead of the 1.3-megapixel and supports the work of the networks of third generation. However, the same iPAQ 514 new from Samsung loses the support of wireless networks Wi-Fi, which means that the restriction on the use of VoIP-phones only cellular networks. Samsung i200 can be seen as the heir to a rather ancient Smartphone Samsung SGH-i300, which was introduced in 2005, if not outright "masthead" of the model. Samsung SGH-i300 was a leader for his time, he was one of the first smartphones based on Windows Mobile 5.0 and has a built-in 3 GB hard drive, and the Samsung i200 is positioned as a business model with reasonable price and high functionality. Since the time of release i300, the Korean manufacturer switched to a smartphone with a QWERTY-keyboard, scoring a classic form factor. Samsung is going to correct the injustice in the summer in Europe, Samsung i200 will hit the stores in June.

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Fuss about the iPhone

A whole avalanche of rumors, "spy" photos, fakie and simply honest announcements appeared last week in the wake of the expectations of the new version of the mobile phone iPhone. No official information about the iPhone 3G still not been provided, but the passions around a hypothetical model of the iPhone with the support of third-generation networks break out even more. The network published several options for pictures, pretending to "iPhone 3G", however, a detailed study, most of them have been found to counterfeiting, and one and did was a cover for an existing model, which was a novelty for the future of Apple. Quite officially announced the signing of contracts with Apple to distribute iPhone operators such giants as Vodafone and America Movil. Until the end of 2008 Vodafone will begin selling the iPhone in Australia, the Czech Republic, Egypt, Greece, Italy, India, Portugal, New Zealand, South Africa and Turkey, and America Movil - Latin America. Details of the operators were not disclosed either on the price, nor on the exact timing of the issuance. Many analysts have expressed hope for more liberal conditions for the spread of the phone than it is now, and raise forecasts for sales of the revolutionary phone. By the release of iPhone 3G predict the total decline in prices for existing models. Also associated with the mythical announcement that the operator AT & T asks its employees not to plan vacations for the period from June 15 to July 12, 2008. Recall that AT & T last year released the first iPhone sold. In addition, the top manager of Orange gossip about the imminent release of the iPhone in Spain and Poland, and T-Mobile Austria dreams of becoming a "test ground" for the iPhone 3G. As usual with rumors about future new products Apple, so much noise that the precious nuggets of valid information to identify it becomes almost impossible.

Nokia E66, Nokia E71 and Sony Ericsson Paris under the gun lens

May 8 fans Finnish manufacturer awaited announcement of two new products in the line of Business Series - Smartphone Nokia E66 and E71. Expectations were not fulfilled, the event was held purely financial topics were discussed, and new devices have been submitted. Of them have already said enough, we recall only that the Nokia E71 smartphone is the successor of Nokia E61i, and Nokia E66 - Nokia E65.To fans of Nokia did not despair and continued to wait for the announcement, the resource Engadget Mobile has published a small photo shoot with these smartphones.

Nokia E71

Nokia E66

Nokia E66

Nokia E66

Also, the first detailed photo-session with the smartphone, codenamed Sony Ericsson Paris, posted a net forum visitors My-Symbian. This will be UIQ-model, made in an unusual for the Japanese-Swedish manufacturer of form-factor. As can be seen in the photographs, Sony Ericsson Paris is a vertical slider with a retractable hybrid 20-button keypad, similar to that used in models of the M600 and P1. According to preliminary information, it is equipped with 5-megapixel camera, GPS-receiver, supports third-generation networks and Wi-Fi with Bluetooth. If all this proves true, the Sony Ericsson Paris will become the flagship UIQ-line Sony Ericsson, and, currently, has no competitors in the market.

Sony Ericsson Paris

Sony Ericsson Paris

Sony Ericsson Paris

Sony Ericsson Paris

Revolutionary Xenium with touchscreen

The company itself is not the Philips is working on a mobile phone, but the brand was bought by a Chinese manufacturer and Philips phones continue to please fans of low-cost models.If we believe the Chinese core resources in the next month under the name Philips will be just sensational novelty. iPhone-like similar designs infused it with the world famous Runtime Series Xenium. Phone under the name Philips Xenium X800 e2e will be equipped with large 3-inch touch screen with WQVGA (432x240 pixels). Reduction of "e2e" stands for "edge to edge", which symbolizes display "from edge to edge." Besides the large touch screen, in the characteristics Xenium X800 e2e indicate features such as Wi-Fi, FM, built-in camera (resolution not specified) and functions for working with office documents. Interface is implemented based on proprietary platforms. Remains a mystery as when such characteristics developer will be able to provide time on a single charge at least similar to the standard indicators Xenium. Recall that for a series of Xenium phones while in standby mode up to a month - it is quite common, is a model that can hold up to two months autonomously. If Philips Xenium X800 e2e close to such indicators, it becomes a real champion among models with touchscreen. The main drawback of the model in this case will become a non-standard interface. Unfortunately, the exact capabilities of the future new items are not yet known. The authors, translation: