Category Archives: Tech News

Nokia Asha 210 – a qwerty phone returns

Tech News

Nokia has introduced a low-cost, social, Asha smartphones with the launch of the Qwerty Asha 210. The phone has embedded a dedicated social button, offering Facebook integration in Europe and Latin America, while users in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Africa will be able to take advantage of Nokia’s new WhatsApp button.

Nokia’s partnership with WhatsApp will allow Asha 210 owners to enjoy free WhatsApp usage for as long as they own the device, connecting them with owners of iOS, Android and Windows Phone devices. The handset is available in single or dual-SIM variants and features a 2-megapixel camera which is accessed using a dedicated hardkey on the front of the device, directly opposite the Facebook or WhatsApp button (depending on the region in which it is sold). The Asha 210 will ship with a number of the new apps and services Nokia announced at Mobile World Congress, including its self-portrait and fast editing photo features, as well as the its Slam feature which allows users to wirelessly share contacts and media over a Bluetooth connection.

Not bad for $72.

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When is Thin too Thin and Does Size Matter

Android, Apple, RIM, Tech News, Windows

Size matters. Or does it. Is thicker better than thin. Is a longer length better than a shorter one.

Recently, I have held many different phones, some thin, some thick, some long, some not so long and some massive. And the most comfortable and reassuring phone to hold was the Nokia Lumia 620.

The 620 beat the iPhone 5, Samsung S4, S3, Note 2 and HTC One. And yet it is the thickness and for its size possibly the heaviest that gives it this result. Surely this can’t make sense.

Lets look at each of the devices in turn.

The Nokia Lumia 620 just fits in the palm of your hand. It’s weight feels assured and your would have no chance of letting it slip.

The iPhone 5 is just too light. If it had been made thicker, then battery life could have been increased. As it has more angular sides it is not as comfy to hold as the 620 with curved sides.

The S3, S4 and HTC One all should have been made thicker to incorporate a bigger battery too.

The Note 2 has a big battery for a longer usage time. Except its too big for general use.

But then we sometimes opt for a bigger screen to provide a better media experience.

What’s your ideal sized phone and why?

Google Now is live on iOS – but….

Android, Apple, Tech News

Google have updated its iOS app, Google Search to include Google Now functionality. It looks great, works as it should but is missing the full monty provided on android devices.

Firstly, its an app and not built into the core operating system. That means that unless you open the app you won’t receive any Google Now cards. Pointless really.

Maybe Google could have added notifications for the cards, but this has not been provided. There is of course the big question, would Apple have permitted such functionality. But an even bigger question, would Google want the full effect working on iOS. By giving iOS users a taste of its wow factor, it will tempt people to at least look at an android phone, maybe even buy one.

Just a little warning, once Google Now is activated location services remain running even after you exit the app. This will have an impact on your battery life.

I suppose in the end, something is better than nothing.

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Taking the London Underground – try walking using this map – its quicker

Tech News

If you’re in London, one often thinks the quickest way to get around is by using the tube. Well, by using this map, it clearly shows where it is quicker to walk than take the tube. Don’t forget, if travelling by tube, you have to travel all the way down to the train platform and back up again, whereas a brief walk in fresh London air takes a lot less time.

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HTC One – Zoe Tips

Android, Tech News

First, open the camera app, turn Zoe on and capture your photo.

With a Zoe, you can find the best image. Each Zoe contains about 20 individual images which you can review to find the best photo. It’s an easy way to make sure you capture the best image possible. Simply stop the Zoe playback by tapping the screen and then use the slider bar at the bottom to review each individual frame. Once you find the image you want to keep, select “Save frame’ from the tools menu.

If you’re in an active setting, such as jet skiing, swimming or running, capture the moment in Zoe mode again. You’ll have a 3 second clip and 20 still photos. Create a sequence shot by going to Edit > Retouch > Sequence Shot and selecting the frames you want to use to create an amazing composite in a single photo. Best filming with the motion moving either left to right or right to left in front of you.

In Zoe mode, use the three second Zoe to start with the wide landscape shot of a field full of flowers ending on the tight shot of that one flower right in front of you. This will give someone viewing your Zoe the full experience without missing a single detail. Quite effective this method.

Filming using Zoe mode, use a little movement. Just a small amount can significantly enhance the shot while showing the environment you or your subjects are in. Begin the motion before hitting the shutter to start the Zoe capture, then when you share the highlight video there’s seamless transition from one clip to the next.

And finally use a tripod if you can.

Apple Worldwide Developer Conference 10-14th June 2013 – what to expect

Apple, Tech News,

For years, WWDC has been where Apple has showcased the next major version of its iOS platform for iPhone and iPad. I expect the 2013 conference will be no different, and will feature the unveiling of iOS 7.

In addition, comments made by Apple marketing chief Phil Schiller in a press release issued by the company last Wednesday suggest that Apple could also unveil to developers OS X 10.9, the next version of the Mac operating system.

Add to the comments made in Apple’s Q2 earnings statement, iOS 7 will launch with the next iPhone as well.

The last quarter promises to be an exciting one for Apple.

If you’re wondering what Apple has planned, look below.

WWDC 2013 activities include:

• More than 100 technical sessions presented by Apple engineers on a wide range of topics for developing, deploying and integrating the latest iOS and OS X technologies;

• more than 1,000 Apple engineers supporting over 100 hands-on labs and events to provide developers with code-level assistance, insight into optimal development techniques and guidance on how they can make the most of iOS and OS X technologies in their apps;

• the latest innovations, features and capabilities of iOS and OS X, and how to enhance an app’s functionality, performance, quality and design;

• the opportunity to connect with thousands of fellow iOS and OS X developers from around the world—last year more than 60 countries were represented;

• engaging and inspirational lunchtime sessions with leading minds and influencers from the worlds of technology, science and entertainment; and

• Apple Design Awards which recognize iPhone®, iPad® and Mac apps that demonstrate technical excellence, innovation and outstanding design.

An tickets for the WWDC 2013 sold out faster than the speed of light.

HTC One vs Samsung Galaxy S4 – ram

Android, Tech News,

The HTC One and Samsung Galaxy S4 are two of the latest and greatest phones to hit the market. They both come with 2gb ram to ensure a smooth operation.

However, there is a startling difference between the memory requirements of these devices. On the HTC One, there is no app or setting that is installed to show you how much ram is left to use after the phone has used what it needs. On the S4 there is a task manager that does show the free ram available. And it’s not surprising why the HTC One omits this information. Read on.

So the HTC One has 1.5gb free from the provided 2gb.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 has 0.8gb or 800mb free from the provided 2gb.

So guess which phone is having users comment on phone lag, freezes, camera lag and stutters.

Yep, the Samsung Galaxy S4. It is simply overloaded with too many features, and touchwiz is a huge memory hog. The HTC One has nearly double the free ram available providing a fast, lag and stutter free experience, and hence can safely omit memory ram usage.