Saturday 26 February 2011

Motorola XOOM hands-on

Friday 25 February 2011

Intel Launches new high speed connector

Fibre optics



Chip manufacturer Intel has announced it is to roll out a new technology for connecting computers and peripherals.
However it won't reach its theoretical maximum because Intel has opted to use copper wires rather than fibre optic cables.
The company said it would gradually move to higher speeds over time.
Apple will become the first manufacturer to use Thunderbolt, on its Macbook Pro computers.
The Cupertino firm is said to have been a major driver of its development, although it remains to be seen how may other manufacturers will adopt the new standard.
Light Peak
Intel has been working on the technology for several years.
It was first announced, under the codename Light Peak in 2009.
At launch, its top speed will be limited to 10 Gigabits per second - twice as fast as USB 3.0, but still well below the theoretical maximum using optical cables.
Intel claims that future versions will be able to reach 100 Gb/sec.
The faster data transfer rates are likely to be welcomed by those consumers who use high-definition video, said Sarah Rottman Epps, an analyst with Forrester Research.
"This isn't an innovation that consumers have been asking for, but it's one they'll appreciate," she said.
Thunderbolt connector"Especially when transferring video, as that's when [USB] starts to feel slow."
The system also promises to reduce the number of cables a user has connecting their computer setup.
It is able to carry multiple signal types at the same time, enabling power, display and peripherals to use a single cable.
However, in the short term, users may need to invest in special adaptors to connect their older devices onto Thunderbolt sockets.
Its arrival on the consumer market also raises questions about the future of other connector standards, such as USB and Firewire.
Thunderbolt's most high profile supporter, Apple, is expected to gradually transition to a single connector, according to Karen Haslam, editor of Macworld UK.
"In the long run there will be no need for Apple to support these multiple formats with individual ports - existing products can run through an adaptor," she said.
Not everyone is convinced that Thunderbolt will become the lone standard.
Ian Chiu, editor of the website Everythingusb.com told BBC News that the cost of components could put off some manufacturers.
"I don't really know how Intel will make Thunderbolt appealing to all the other first-tier PC manufacturers," he said.
"HP, Sony, Dell, Acer, Asus make most of their money from the low-end and medium-end notebooks.
"On the other hand, Apple's Macbook Pro line-up is targeted at the prosumers, professionals and other people who aren't so price conscious," said Mr Chiu.

Digital SLR's

Here's a few of the best selling Digital SLR's on Amazon at the moment.


Samsung creates the uk’s first social census


Samsung collects the nation’s visual interpretations of ‘now’ through facebook


Wave II
Inspired by the 2011 national census, Samsung Mobile UK today launches the country’s very first social census asking people to submit photos of a moment that signifies their ‘present’ via social networking sites. The ‘Now Project’ will curate a collection of images that will be logged with time, date and location culminating in a visual census of the UK.
The project, which runs throughout February, invites people to capture images that represent what they are doing or feeling ‘now’. Everything from the commonplace and the ordinary, right through to the unconventional and the unique will be uploaded to an online gallery hosted on Facebook.
Anyone can take part by logging on to www.facebook.com/SamsungUK and by using the special Wave II editing app, images can be beautified and uploaded.  Images can then be voted for via the Facebook ‘like’ button. The top 100 will be selected to appear in the social census archive and be displayed as part of the exclusive ‘Now Project’ exhibition at the London Design Museum for one night only on Thursday 24th March.
As well as members of the public, Samsung is kick starting its ‘social census’ by asking well known media personalities to take part.  TV presenter Tim Lovejoy has shared his photo of ‘now’ - an image of him snowboarding in Whistler, Canada. Other experts and tastemakers involved include top prop stylist Fred Butler, pop music commentator Peter Robinson (Popjustice) and graphic designer Michael Johnson.
Commenting on the social census, Michael Johnson says: “Capturing what ‘now’ is, will always have relevance. My image of a men’s barbers was inspired by the surrealism of the pictures they use to sell their trade, they sum up ‘now’ but somehow end up being fantastically ‘then’. A social media census is a fascinating way to delve into the nation’s interpretations of what is valuable to them now.”
Prop stylist Fred Butler, designer of the telephone headpiece in Lady Gaga’s Telephone on a Piano video says: “Samsung’s social media census is a cute visual source to scan through for image inspiration with the added bonus of being an instant resource of creatives to research.  Blogs and tumblr pages are online diaries recording moments in time and Samsung have neatly brought together a perceptive handpicked selection of informed participants."
The social media census is inspired by the launch of the Samsung Wave II – featuring sleek editing options such as colour boost to intensify images, as well as adding special effects including mist, antique and blur.  The handset comes with a 3.7” Super Clear LCD display which offers stunning brightness and improved visibility of user’s favourite pictures.
Simon Stanford, Managing Director, Mobile, Samsung UK and Ireland said: “The unique editing options available on the Samsung Wave II are what make this handset so distinctive. Users can get creative on-the-go, and share their masterpieces on their social networking sites immediately. The ‘Now Project’ gallery is shaping up to be an interesting culmination of pictures, there are some really beautiful and fun interpretations of ‘now’, and we expect the end result to be really exciting.”

Thursday 24 February 2011

BMW GINA Light Visionary Model: Premiere

DOCOMO Medias - The Worlds Thinnest and Lightest Smartphone #DigInfo

Check this one out, it looks like a thinner version of the Sony Xperia X10, but very... Very thin.

Samsung announces the Galaxy S II


Samsung’s most powerful smartphone combines stylish, lightweight design with powerful multimedia performance


Samsung announces the Galaxy S II
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leading mobile phone provider, today announced the Samsung Galaxy S II (Model: GT-I9100), a thin (8.49mm), lightweight (116g), dual-core smartphone that combines an incredible viewing experience with fantastic performance. Running on Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), the Galaxy S II integrates Samsung’s four content and entertainment hubs, for instant access to music, games, books, magazines and social networking services.
Simon Stanford, Managing Director, Mobile, Samsung UK and Ireland said: "Following the huge success of our first Galaxy S handset last year, which sold in excess of 10 million units, we’re aiming for its successor to become the ultimate smartphone. Featuring the fastest dual-core hardware, running on the quickest Android OS, with the most advanced screen on the market, we’re providing our customers with a handset that will be unmatched in terms of both its hardware and content, thanks to our innovative content hubs.”
Andy Rubin, Vice President of Engineering at Google, said: "We're pleased to see Samsung bring another Android-powered device to market to help grow the Android ecosystem." 
Featuring a dual-core processor, the Samsung Galaxy S II allows people to easily switch between applications and load popular web pages including Google, Yahoo and YouTube instantly, whilst superior 3D hardware means games and videos can be loaded quickly and smoothly. Super-fast HSPA + (21Mbps) connectivity and WiFi means increased download speeds on the device whilst BlueTooth 3.0 + HS considerably reduces data transfer times, the result being that people have immediate access to the content, people and services that are important to them. For anyone wanting to create their own content, the Galaxy S II features an 8 megapixel camera with 1080p HD recording and playback, and Samsung’s patented AllShare technology lets them capture, create and then share their experiences.
The Samsung Galaxy S II features Samsung’s new crystal-clear 4.27” Super AMOLED Plus screen which uses RealStripe technology so images look sharper and more detailed than before, making it an ideal mobile device for enjoying films and games. And, a significant reduction in power consumption means the device is more energy-efficient than other comparably-sized devices.
The Galaxy S II features Samsung Hubs which provide people with a huge range of entertainment content, advanced mobile games and the ability to manage their online social life.

  • Social Hub Premium: People can talk to who they want, how they want, all from one place. From here, people can sync their phonebook with their social networks, Instant Messenger and email accounts, and access all of their messages (push e-mail, text, VM and SNS) and respond directly without having to log into individual applications.

  • Readers Hub: Through strategic partnerships, Samsung’s Reader’s Hub provides over 2.2 million books and novels, 2000 global and local newspapers in 49 languages and 2300 popular magazines in 22 languages.



  • Game Hub: Featuring a 3-axis gyroscopic sensor, the Samsung Galaxy S is the perfect device for gaming fans. They can try new games for free, download premium titles from partners including Gameloft, play with friends using other devices and chat in-game with Social Network Games (SNG).



  • Music Hub: Access over 12 million tracks provided by 7digital, search for artists, get recommendations on new acts, and sample 30 or 60 second previews for free.

  • With the Samsung Galaxy S II, people can personalise their smartphone experience using the new Live Panel, a service that aggregates live web and application contents to a single customisable home-screen. Owners of the new handset can design the lay-out of their own Live Panel, whilst social networking feeds and applications can be embedded and accessed instantly through a magazine-like layout.
    New voice services on the Galaxy S II convert SMS texts to audio, whilst a Customised Voice Translation application makes the device perfect for taking on holiday, as it translates voice or text to – and from – a range of languages: just speak a word or phrase into the handset and it will instantly translate it, with audio and text output.
    In addition, Samsung’s new Kies Air lets people manage their smartphone contents from their PC via local WiFi connections. Download photos taken on the handset’s built-in camera, listen to music stored on the phone, check missed calls and send messages in the web browser on their PC. WiFi Direct also allows them to connect to wireless-enabled PCs and printers without the need for wireless access points. 

    Wednesday 23 February 2011

    Sony VAIO C Series

    Samsung expands the Samsung Galaxy Tab range with a 10.1” Entertainment Powerhouse


    Global launch of Samsung’s first Honeycomb-based, Dual-Core smart media device


    Samsung expands the Samsung Galaxy Tab range with a 10.1” Entertainment Powerhouse
    Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a provider of smart media devices and the global leader in Android™ tablets,  today announced the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (Model: P7100) in partnership with the Vodafone Group – a powerful Dual-Core Android 3.0 (Honeycomb) Smart Media Device.
    As the tablet market grows, Samsung and Vodafone have partnered to cater for consumer demand and offer an ideal perfect way to enjoy the huge variety of opportunities the Android platform provides. The lightweight, ultra-slim Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is an entertainment-focused tablet, featuring games, movies, eBooks and social media capabilities, that builds on the success of the two million-selling Samsung Galaxy Tab, that launched last year.
    Simon Stanford, Managing Director, Mobile, Samsung UK and Ireland said: “The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is a fantastic addition to our expanding portfolio of smart media devices. Sporting a large 10.1 inch screen, dual surround-sound speakers and super fast performance, it’s an exceptional entertainment device. It’s slim and ultra light too, so ideal for carrying around. With this addition to our portfolio, we can now offer our customers a range of screen sizes to choose from so there’s something for everyone.”
    Patrick Chomet, Vodafone’s Group Director of Terminals, said: “Vodafone customers in over 20 markets around the world will be the first to get the Galaxy Tab 10.1 when it goes on sale this spring. Samsung has produced a stylish, market-leading implementation of the new Android 3.0 platform which will be the first Honeycomb device to arrive in many of those markets. Vodafone’s competitive data tariffs and reliable, high-speed networks make using the Galaxy Tab 10.1 a great experience."
    Andy Rubin, Vice President of Engineering at Google, comments: “Samsung continues to develop innovative products that, contribute to the continued growth of the Android ecosystem.”
    A 10.1 inch (WXGA TFT LCD) display with crystal clear resolution (1280 x 800) makes the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 an unrivalled device for experiencing the hundreds of thousands of games and applications available from Android Market™. To complement this amazing visual display, the Galaxy Tab 10.1 includes dual surround-sound speakers for exceptional sound quality.
    The device also includes an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera with Auto Focus and a 2 megapixel front-facing camera, for capturing and sharing images, as well full HD record and play features. The Android browser and Flash 10.1, means the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is great for exploring internet content on the move.
    Featuring Android’s tablet-optimised operating system, 3.0 ‘Honeycomb’, Samsung has created a device that is powerful and fast. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 includes a 1GHz Dual Core application processor, Dual Core processor, low power DDR2 memory and 6860mAh battery, making it super fast and energy efficient to boot.
    Weighing in at just 599g and measuring a mere 10.9mm, the Galaxy Tab 10.1 is super light, ultra slim and perfectly portable. The device also includes super-fast HSPA + 21Mbps, Bluetooth® 2.1 + EDR and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n connectivity to support rapid mobile download speeds, reduce data transfer times and remain constant connectivity.

    Tuesday 22 February 2011

    Tekken Tag Tournament 2 - Gameplay Video #DigInfo

    Samsung Unveils The Latest Addition To Bada Portfolio – The Samsung Wave 578


    Samsung Wave 578 is equipped with Samsung’s bada platform, NFC connectivity, and lightning-fast Wi-Fi


    Samsung Unveils The Latest Addition To Bada Portfolio – The Samsung Wave 578
    Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd., a leading mobile phone provider, today announced the Samsung Wave 578 at Mobile World Congress 2011. The new bada handset is equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) connectivity, sleek, user-friendly design, and runs on bada, Samsung’s own smartphone platform.
    Simon Stanford, Managing Director, Mobile, Samsung UK and Ireland said: “The Samsung Wave 578 handset combines sleek design with fantastic features, including super quick WiFi connectivity and NFC, on a really user friendly device. This handset enhances our expanding bada platform portfolio.”
    Samsung Wave 578 features Near Field Communication (NFC) – a technology that makes many innovative services possible such as mobile payment at shops, paying transport fares, reading tags and getting mobile coupons, direct on the handset. The Samsung Wave 578 also has the fast connectivity around with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0, and USB 2.0, for fast data rates and easy information sharing.
    With soft rounded edges for an ergonomic grip and a sleek metallic body, the Samsung Wave 578 is comfortable to hold and stylish. The user friendly focus is backed up by the QuickType by t9 Trace, which is two to three times faster than standard typing and supports more than 75 languages, delivering an easy and efficient typing experience while reducing input error. The Samsung Wave 578 is also equipped with multi-touch functionality, for zooming in and out and pinch the screen function, to browse and view.
    A rich communication suite (RCS) supports a wide variety of social communication on the Samsung Wave 578. People can share content while chatting on the phone or send messages to several friends at the same time, SNS (social networking service) integration seamlessly connects contacts across various social outlets, such as Facebook and Twitter, and push IM enables users to access messages anywhere, anytime.
    Samsung Apps, an integrated application store accessible from the device and online, allows Wave users to simply and easily download an abundance of apps. Featuring a wealth of games, navigation, social networking, e-book, health and lifestyle applications, Samsung Apps gives users instant access to all this and more on the Samsung Wave 578 handset.

    Monday 21 February 2011

    LG unveils premium line-up at MWC 2011

    LG Optimus 3D 
    The LG Optimus 3D packs exceptional features with performance in mind, including an advanced dual-core, dual-channel and dual-memory architecture. Equipped with a 1GHz OMAP4 dual-core processor and four times more video decoders than competing designs, the LG Optimus 3D doubles the graphics performance of its nearest competitor allowing users to enjoy superb performance while web surfing, running applications and enjoying multimedia content. In addition, the LG Optimus 3D provides the world`s first full 3D experience covering the full spectrum from recording to viewing and sharing 3D content. It features a dual-lens camera that enables users to capture any moment in true 3D which can then be viewed immediately on the 4.3-inch WVGA glasses-free display. Multiple connectivity options including HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) and DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) also make it easy for users to transfer their recorded content to other devices. 
     
    LG Optimus Pad 
    The LG Optimus Pad sets a new standard for tablets by utilizing an 8.9-inch display in a form factor that`s comfortable to use one-handed. With a 15:9 aspect ratio and Full HD 1080p decoding, the LG Optimus Pad offers users an immersive multimedia environment on a 1280 x 768 WXGA resolution widescreen display. The new device sports Honeycomb, Google`s latest platform optimized for tablet devices with an optimized and intuitive PC-like interface for running tablet software. LG`s tablet runs on a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual-core processor for unmatched performance and power management. In addition, the LG Optimus Pad is the world`s first tablet with a built-in 3D camera, enabling users to capture vivid image and video content to be viewed on a high definition 3D TV or shared on the web via YouTube 3D. 
     
    LG Optimus 2X 
    The world`s first smartphone with a dual-core processor, the LG Optimus 2X was developed in partnership with graphics processor powerhouse, NVIDIA. The dual-core Tegra 2 system-on-a-chip found in the LG Optimus 2X runs at a clock speed of 1GHz and boasts low power consumption and high performance for playing video and audio. Not only does the LG Optimus 2X mean more powerful multimedia features, the Tegra 2 processor makes for faster, smoother web browsing and multitasks with virtually no screen lag. The LG Optimus 2X offers 1080p HD video playback and recording with HDMI mirroring that expands content on external displays to Full HD quality. The LG Optimus 2X can connect wirelessly to any DLNA-compatible digital device such as HD TVs for a console-like gaming experience, taking full advantage of the phone‟s HDMI mirroring, accelerometer and gyro sensor. 
     
    LG Optimus Black 
    One of the world`s slimmest and lightest Android smartphones, LG Optimus Black is already a hit, having recorded more than two million pre-orders in 20 countries since its introduction at CES. At MWC, a range of special-edition LG Optimus Black handsets will be unveiled featuring designs courtesy of the Keith Haring Foundation. Besides its incredibly slim body, the LG Optimus Black features a 4-inch NOVA display for optimal brightness and readability under any lighting conditions. The crystal-clear display also provides a more natural web browsing experience by displaying truer whites while simultaneously cutting energy consumption by 50 percent compared to conventional LCDs. In addition, the LG Optimus Black includes a collection of smart features designed to improve the user experience, such as Gesture UI, Wi-Fi Direct and a 2MP front-facing camera. 

    Samsung Launches Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 ‘Smart Player’


    First Samsung ‘Smart Player’ with Android apps, entertainment and a 4” Super Clear LCD screen


    Samsung Launches Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 ‘Smart Player’
    Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leading provider of smart mobile devices, today announced the Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 Smart Player, the latest addition to its expanding range of Android-powered Galaxy products. Available with a 4” Super Clear LCD display, the Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 delivers apps and entertainment, powered by Android.
    Following the global success of the Samsung Galaxy S smartphone, Samsung has created the Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 that delivers all the features of the original, such as video communications via VoIP services, and video and music entertainment with multi-codec support, without the need for an operator contract.
    Simon Stanford, Managing Director, Mobile, Samsung UK and Ireland said: “The Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 has all the entertainment features of the hugely popular Galaxy S handset. It’s a great mobile entertainment device with apps, video, music and a top-notch screen.”
    Powered by Android 2.2 ‘Froyo’ operating system and WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, the Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 is equipped for access to thousands of apps, a huge range of multimedia content and innovative mobile services. VoIP support via Skype allows video calls over WiFi as well as free calls among Skype users, and there is access to social networking through the likes of Twitter and Facebook. In addition, the Qik video service means capturing and sharing videos is simple and instant.
    Powered by Android means over 100000 apps are available on the Android Market. A camera on the front and back of the device is capable of capturing high-quality video or still images whilst the device also supports DivX HD, for high-definition video playback, meaning movies and TV shows look pristine and vivid on the large, high-quality Super Clear LCD. Support for various codec standards including MPEG4, H264, DivX, XviD, WMV makes a huge catalogue of content available from all over the web.
    The Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.0 ‘Smart Player’ has excellent audio capabilities, including built in speakers and Samsung SoundAlive™ technology which provides high sound quality, with deeper bass and greater tone articulation.

    Thursday 17 February 2011

    SIGMA SD1 - SLR with 46-megapixel direct image sensor #DigInfo

    Motorola XOOM




    “Motorola XOOM re-defines what the tablet experience should be. Designed from the ground up with the consumer in mind, it provides more ways to have fun, connect with friends and stay productive while on the go,” said Alain Mutricy, senior vice president of Portfolio and Device Product Management, Motorola Mobility. “Whether surfing the Web, watching the latest hit movie, or video-chatting with friends, Motorola XOOM will delight consumers with its ease of use, speed and vivid graphics, as well as its Motorola Smart Accessories.”
    In today’s fast-paced mobile device market, Motorola XOOM isn’t the next generation tablet; it’s the one after that. Thanks to its dual cameras, true multi-tasking functionality, latest Google Mobile innovations, 1GHz dual-core processor and 10.1-inch (25.65 cm) widescreen HD display, the Motorola XOOM provides users with diverse content-consumption capabilities.
    Motorola XOOM Features
    Motorola XOOM delivers a new type of mobile computing experience, including: a widescreen HD display with 1280x800 resolution to support HD video and with HDMI out; a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera for 720p video capture and 2-megapixel front-facing camera for video chats; and a built-in gyroscope, barometer, e-compass, accelerometer and adaptive lighting.
    A dual-core processor with each core running at 1GHz offers an optimal experience for Android 3.0 Honeycomb. The Honeycomb user experience improves on Android favorites such as widgets, multi-tasking, browsing, notifications and customization, and also features the latest Google Mobile innovations such as Google Maps 5.0 with 3D interaction. Video and other rich web content plays seamlessly with Adobe® Flash® Player.
    Motorola XOOM supports up to 10 hours of video playback, and charges in half the time of competitive tablets on the market.

    Motorola Smart Accessories
    • A Standard Dock for watching video content or listening to music through external speakers as the device charges
    • A Speaker HD Dock for sending HD content directly to a TV or clearly listening to music through two built-in speakers – eliminating the need to attach external speakers
    • A custom keyboard with Bluetooth® wireless technology and special Android shortcut keys

    Tuesday 15 February 2011

    Introduction to Xperia™ neo at Mobile World Congress

    Android 3.0 Honeycomb on Motorola Xoom

    LG TO UNVEIL WORLD’S FIRST FULL 3D SMARTPHONE AT MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS 2011


    3D Recording-Viewing-Sharing of Life’s Precious Moments Anytime, Anywhere
    SEOUL, Feb. 1, 2011 – At this year’s Mobile World Congress, LG will unveil the LG Optimus 3D, the world’s first 3D smartphone offering consumers a full 3D experience right in the palm of their hands.
    The LG Optimus 3D addresses the lack of 3D content issue -- one of the biggest problems facing the 3D market -- with a complete platform for a one-of-a-kind experience on a mobile device. LG’s most advanced smartphone to date will feature a dual-lens camera for 3D recording, a glasses-free LCD panel for 3D viewing and diverse connectivity options such as HDMI and DLNA for 3D content sharing anytime, anywhere.
    Further details and a live demo of the LG Optimus 3D will be offered at Booth #8B178 at MWC in Barcelona from February 14 to 17.
     
    LG 3D Mobile Demo from LG at CES 2011

    Sunday 13 February 2011

    Nokia and Microsoft form partnership



    Nokia has joined forces with Microsoft in an attempt to regain ground lost to the iPhone and Android-based devices.
    Click to play
    Rory Cellan-Jones asks Nokia's Stephen Elop and Microsoft's Steve Ballmer why they chose to form an alliance
    The deal will see Nokia use the Windows phone operating system for its smartphones, the company said.
    It means that Nokia's existing operating systems will be sidelined.
    Speaking at the launch of the partnership, Nokia's chief executive Stephen Elop revealed that there would be "substantial" job losses as a result of the tie-up.
    Nokia will remain "first and foremost...a Finnish company. Finland is our home and will remain our home," he said.
    But job losses around the world, including in Finland, will be inevitable, he added.
    Windows first

    Analysis

    "So Stephen Elop has pushed Nokia off that now infamous burning platform he described to staff some days ago and into the unknown.
    His chosen lifebelt is Windows Phone 7, a new smartphone operating system that has won critical praise but, so far at least, only a tiny share of the market.
    So Nokia is moving from an ailing system Symbian - which still has a large chunk of the market - to a fledgling which has yet to prove itself, made by a firm with a poor track record in mobile.
    Why then, did Mr Elop not opt to go with Google's Android, the operating system with momentum behind it? Perhaps he feels more comfortable with the culture of Microsoft, where he worked until joining Nokia.
    The cruel verdict from some is that two turkeys don't make an eagle - but you can't fault Mr Elop for his audacity. This is a huge moment which could shape the future of an industry."
    Speaking about the new partnership with Microsoft, Mr Elop said that "the game has changed from a battle of devices to a war of ecosystems".
    "An ecosystem with Microsoft and Nokia has unrivalled scale around the globe," he said.
    Microsoft's chief executive Steve Ballmer was also present at the launch, underlining the importance of the deal to the computing giant.
    "Nokia and Microsoft working together can drive innovation that is at the boundary of hardware, software and services," he said.
    Microsoft's Bing will power Nokia's search services, while Nokia Maps would be a core part of Microsoft's mapping services.
    The new strategy means Nokia's existing smartphone operating systems will be gradually sidelined.
    Symbian, which runs on most of the company's current devices will become a "franchise platform", although the company expects to sell approximately 150 million more Symbian devices in future.
    "It is a transition from Symbian to Windows phone as our primary smartphone platform," said Mr Elop.
    Windows may not be the exclusive operating system for Nokia tablets though.
    Stephen Elop and Steve BallmerMr Elop was at Microsoft before joining Nokia
    "We reserve the right to introduce tablets using other platforms, including ones we may be working on internally," he said.
    There was no specific announcement about when the first Windows-powered Nokia phone will be available.
    Mr Elop revealed that the firm did consider a tie-up with Google's Android operating system.
    "We spent time with our colleagues at Google and explored the Google ecosystem but we felt we would have difficulty differentiating within that ecosystem," he said.
    It was also revealed that talks with Microsoft only began in November, illustrating how quickly the deal has been pushed through.
    Future clashes
    The move away from Symbian is a brave decision for Nokia, according to experts.
    "This is a clear admission that Nokia's own-platform strategy has faltered," said Ben Wood, an analyst with research firm CCS: Insight.
    "Microsoft is the big winner in this deal, but there are no silver bullets for either company given the strength of iPhone and Google's Android," he added.
    Nokia's share of the smartphone market fell from 38% to 28% in 2010, according to monitoring firm IDC.
    Nokia's upcoming Meego operating system will also be sidelined.
    According to the company statement: "MeeGo will place increased emphasis on longer-term market exploration of next-generation devices."
    The MeeGo platform was expected to form the core of Nokia's future smartphone and tablet strategy.
    The company says it still plans to ship one Meego device by the end of 2011.
    For Magnus Rehle, the Nordic managing director of research firm Greenwich Consulting, Nokia may have difficulty juggling its three operating systems: Windows, Symbian and MeeGo.
    "Three platforms is a lot to work with. I'm not sure there is room for so many platforms," he said.
    And, as with any tie-up, there could be clashes between the two firms, he said.
    Earlier this week Nokia chief executive Stephen Elop sent a memo to staff warning that the company was in crisis.
    The memo, published first by technology website Engadget, said that the mobile giant was standing on a "burning platform".
    "Elop has to convince the best people to stay and some people will inevitably be jumping off the burning platform," said Mr Rehle.

    Saturday 12 February 2011

    Sony Ericsson introduce the Xperia Arc


    Sony Ericsson today unveils the new Xperia™ arc smartphone with cutting edge Sony technology and an exceptional multimedia experience on the latest version of the Android™ platform - 2.3. Xperia™ arc is the first of a new generation of Xperia smartphones to be announced in 2011.

    Bert Nordberg, President, Sony Ericsson said, “We’re starting strong in 2011 by introducing our most exciting Xperia™ product yet. Xperia™ arc combines state-of-the-art Sony technology with breathtaking design to entertain and wow consumers. All on the latest Android™ release.”
    Xperia™ arc takes the stunning design language that Sony Ericsson has become known for to a new level. Super slim and light, Xperia™ arc is just 8.7mm at its thinnest part and has a extra wide 4.2” multi-touch screen. Created from premium materials and with a stunning arc body, this smartphone is sleek, strong and designed to fit perfectly in the user’s hand. The best of Sony technology is inside Xperia™ arc.  The Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine delivers exceptional visual brilliance and a crystal clear image which enhances the overall entertainment experience. Furthermore, Sony’s award-winning Exmor R™ for mobile sensor with the f/2.4 lens enables the capture of high quality, bright pictures and HD videos even in low light. All pictures and videos can be shared in HD on your living room TV via the built in HDMI-connector.
    Xperia™ arc will launch on the latest version of the Android™ platform providing access to Google Mobile Services and the myriad of applications available on the Android market. Xperia™ smartphones add best in class entertainment on top of smartphone fundamentals such as apps, maps, email and fast Internet to create the most entertaining smartphone experience.
    Sony Ericsson Xperia™ arc – Key features
    • Slim, lightweight and strong, with perfect ergonomics
    • Extra wide 4.2” multi-touch Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine to ensure ultimate multimedia and viewing experiences
    • Sony Exmor R™ for mobile: for best-in-class low-light photography and video capture
    • 8.1 megapixel camera and HD video recording capability
    • Android Market™ – thousands of applications to keep you entertained
    Sony Ericsson Xperia™ arc will be available globally in selected markets, including Japan, from Q1 in the colours Midnight Blue and Misty Silver.