Nokia Lumia 900 Gets Taken Apart

Nokia’s new Lumia 900 is due to launch on AT&T in the US this weekend on the 8th of April, and the guys over at TechRepublic decided to take their screwdrivers to the Lumia 900 to see what was inside.
You can see what they found inside the Nokia Lumia 900 in the photos below, and there weren’t really any surprises inside the device expect that the majority of the components seem to be cheaper ones, which would explain the devices low price point.



The Nokia Lumia a single core 1.4GHz processor, plus a 4.3 inch AMOLED ClearBlack touchscreen display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels.
Other specifications on the handset include a front facing 1 megapixel camera, a rear facing 8 megapixel camera with a Carl Zeiss lens, 16GB of built in storage, WiFi and 4G LTE.

LG Viper: First LG 4G LTE, on Sprint

Even though Sprint Nextel is yet to officially announce the launch of its new 4G LTE network, recent reports have revealed that the first LTE-capable handset to be launched by the carrier will be the LG Viper.
Boasting the 4G LTE speeds on the Sprint network, the LG Viper will be available for pre-order for $100 from April 12, with a two-year Sprint service contract and $50 mail-in rebate - not including taxes and surcharges - by the way of a reward card.
The users of the 5-ounce LG Viper handset can subscribe to the $80 a month `Everything Data' smartphone plan from Sprint, to avail the benefits of unlimited Web, calling as well as texting to other Sprint users.
To be the first LG handset for Sprint's 4G network, the Viper boasts a 4-inch WVGA NOVA touchscreen display; 1.2GHz dual core processor; 1 GB of RAM; a 5-megapixel rear camera; and a VGS front camera. Running on the Android 2.3 `Gingerbread' version, the Viper will also support Google Wallet, NFC, apps, high-definition gaming, and video chats.
In addition, over and above a 4 GB card included in a microSD card slot and up to 32 GB support, the LG Viper will also boast 50 GB of free cloud storage, along with sharing from the Box app.
Finally, Sprint customers will also be able to download Sprint ID packs which deliver "a predefined experience" which comprises the simultaneous advantage of apps, ringtones, wallpapers, and widgets.

Instagram For Android Hits 1 Million Downloads In Less Than 24 Hours

Instagram is extremely popular on Apple’s iOS platform with more than 30 million users, and the Android version launched yesterday and it looks like Instagram for Android is going to be extremely popular.
According to the guys over at the Next Web, there were more than 1 million downloads of Instagram for Android in less than 24 hours, which certainly is impressive.


This could be one of the most popular app releases on Google’s Android platform to day, and we wonder how long it will take for the Android version to become as popular as they iOS version and hit 30 million users.

Microsoft 'Shopping assistant' patent could help you find Elmo, more time for the kids

Microsoft's just been granted a patent entitled "Shopping assistant." The claims indicate a system that generates a route to a product based on user-defined criteria (i.e. quickest, cheapest, shortest distance,) it also indicates that certain real-time conditions from participating merchants, such as stock levels, could also help determine the route. Now we're no CSI, but sounds to us like someone got fed up pounding the Mall looking for the last Buzz Lightyear, and cooked up a system to help save folk from the same pain. The problem is, we're not sure we like the idea of Windows Shopping all that much either...

Stealth Intel Core Based Mini PC Unveiled

This week Stealth has unveiled a new mini PC system that is capable of being powered by Intel’s Core i3/i5/i7 Sandy Bridge processors. The Stealth LPC-680 LittlePC measures just 6.5 x 6 x 2 inches in size and is powered by a included 20VDC adapter, but it can also run off of an external 12 to 20VDC power source.

The new mini PCs are equipped with 2 x USB 3.0 ports, 2 x USB 2.0 ports, DVI-I, DisplayPort, Gigabit LAN, optional WiFi 802.11n, RS232, and audio in/out jacks.
Once fitted with an Intel Core processor it can be supported by upto 8GB of DDR3 RAM, and storage can be supplied by a 750 GB HHD or solid state drive if preferred. The Stealth LPC-680 LittlePC is expected to start at around $1500 and rising depending on your chosen specifications when it arrives.

Samsung's Galaxy Tab(s) 2 delayed by, you guessed it, Ice Cream Sandwich

Since the calendar clearly says April, we can take it as read that Samsung missed the promised March release window for both the seven and ten-inch versions of the Galaxy Tab 2. The company conceded that it was because both it and Google needed more time to tailor the software to the new hardware. Now both slates will arrive with a fully tweaked and revved version of Android 4.0 towards the end of this month.

Vivaldi Open Source €200 Tablet Launch Delayed A Month

It has been announced this week by developer Aaron Seigo that the new open source Vivaldi tablet, which was hoped to be arriving in May. Will be delayed by around a month.
The open source Vivaldi tablet is equipped with a 7 inch screen sporting a 800 x 480 resolution display. Its powered by a 1 Ghz AMlogic processor and will run a free and open source Linux-based software which will set the tablet apart from other on the market, explains Seigo.

The team of KDE software developers is currently in partnership with a chinese company. Who will load the required software onto the tablet and work in conjunction with distributors in Europe to roll out the Vivaldi tablet at launch.
Unfortunately no information on worldwide availability has been confirmed as yet by the Vivaldi tablet is expected to be priced at around €200. As soon as any more information comes to light we will keep you updated as always.

Samsung's ST200F goes on sale in Korea, wants you to know it exists

Having trouble remembering Samsung's ST200F? You're forgiven as it was announced during the feed-busting monster that is CES, and alongside three other (arguably more interesting) Sammy WiFi-enabled shooters. No matter, as today the company's jogged our memory by letting us know the 16 megapixel shooter will soon soon grace Korean shelves for ₩249,000 (or around $200). Those buying will also be granted to a 10x optical zoom, 802.11 antennae and 720p video recording. And best of all, a quick perusal of online retailers reveal it's already up for preorder and will likely ship stateside in mid-April. Considerably later than the previously promised "February" ship date, but beggars can't be choosers. Right?

Amazon Developing And Testing In-App Purchasing

Along similar lines to Google and Apple in their application stores, Amazon is now developing and testing a new in-app purchasing system, with options for both subscriptions and purchases of individual items.
The report of the new testing was revealed my Bloomberg today and indicated that Amazon is looking to join the same market with Apple and Google. Enabling application software to generate revenue for developers as well as companies.

Amazon is planning to charge a 30 percent commission to clients for its in-app purchase service, which is the same rate as Amazon charges developers for app sales. Amazon still has a long way to go with its app store if its hoping to compete with Apple and Google. Who both have more than 450,000 applications available to purchase in their stores compared to Amazon’s 1400 applications. But quality over quantity may help a little.
Unfortunately no information on worldwide availability has been released as yet, but as soon as information comes to light we will keep you updated as always.

Sony, Toshiba, Hitachi joint venture Japan Display fires up operations

The joint venture that is Japan Display agreed on its formalities back in November, and has now finally started operating. While Sony, Toshiba and Hitachi all have a 10 percent stake in the business, the main investment comes from the government-backed INCJ. The collaboration hopes to champion the middle- and small-sized display sector, and has around 6,200 employees, and ¥230 billion (about $2.8 billion) of capital to help it on its way. Now that the wheels are finally in motion, an announcement of its operational divisions, which include "Mobile Business" and "Automotive" hint at what we might expect from the business going forward. Assuming no one sells up that is.

Solar Powered Kindle Light Case Arrives

Kindle Touch owners who have been waiting for the arrival of the SolarKindle the solar powered light case designed for Amazon’s Kindle Touch devices.
The SolarKindles was first unveiled back in CES during January of this year. Will be please to learn that the SolarKindle has now arrived and is available to purchase from the SolarFocus website directly for $80.

Created by SolarFocus the SolarKindle cases lightweight, flexible solar panel has been designed to provide up to three days of lighted reading time from just one hour of direct sunlight.
Its equipped with a 1500 mAh lithium-polymer reserve battery that will run the unit’s built-in LED lamp pumping out 800 lux for up to 50 hours. It can also be used to charge the connected Kindle Touch device, providing it with up to 10 days of additional reading time.

Lensbaby Composer Pro For Micro Four Thirds Cameras Announced

Some of our readers will remember the Lensbaby Composer Pro for DSLR’s that was launched last year, and now Lensbaby has also launched the Composer Pro for a range of micro four thirds.
The Lensbaby Composer Pro is now available for the Sony NEX ranage, The Samsung NX range, plus a range of Olympus PEN cameras and Panasonic’s Lumix G cameras.

The Composer Pro offers silky smooth focus and tilt/swivel ability. With its refined design and sturdy metal construction, it’s a step up from the Composer. It is the premium choice for professional photographers and videographers everywhere.
You can find out more details about the Lensbaby Composer Pro for micro four thirds cameras over at Lensbaby.

HTC Evo 3D Coming To Virgin Mobile As HTC Evo V 4G

The HTC Evo 3D was launched last year and now it looks like it is headed to Virgin Mobile in the US as the HTC Evo V 4G, and it looks like the specifications will be the same as the the HTC Evo 3D.
The HTC Evo V 4G will features a dual core 1.2GHz processor, plus a 4.3 inch qHD display that has a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels, and it is capable of displaying 3D content without any 3D glasses.

The devices comes with two 5 megapixel cameras which can record 3D video and take 3D photos, up front you get a 1.3 megapixel camera for video calls and there is also Bluetooth and WiFi, plus Android 2.3 Gingerbread.
There are no details as yet on when the HTC Evo V 4G will land on Virgin Mobile and also no details on how much it will retail for.

HTC One X and One S come to Orange, T-Mobile on Thursday

If you've already decided whether you're Team One X or Team One S, and live in the UK, then get ready to flex the plastic on Thursday. Both T-Mobile and Orange have announced that's the day you can pick one up in store and online (and even over the phone if that's how you roll.) Both networks are offering the One X for free if you don't mind paying £41 a month, or you can scoop up the One S for a slightly more reasonable £36 -- if you're okay with the smaller screen estate and number-of-core bragging rights. In the mean time, you'd best start brushing up on that new UI...

Google Drive likely to launch in mid-April; will offer 5GB space

It appears that the initial rumours of Google’s online storage service are coming true, after all. We talked about a possible screenshot that showed the service in action. Now, there are fresh rumours that the service may be launched as early as next month. TalkAndroid has got their hands on a screenshot of the the new service. There’s a clear mention of 5GB of free space being made available with the service. There’s a Download Google Drive button as well, which suggests that a local OS installation is possible as well. Of course, the domain http://drive.google.com will also be accessible to mobile phones, tablets and desktop users using a web browser. The subdomain is currently active on Google’s site, but it throws up a 404 error, as of now. 

It's coming soon!

There was initial news that Google would be providing 2GB of space with the service, but that has clearly been upped to 5GB. The service should offer great integration between all of Google’s services as well as all the devices that their users use. Google should, however consider upping that space to above the 20GB mark as there are already services that offer much more storage space. Microsoft’s service SkyDrive offers 25GB of free space to its users. If Google Drive does launch in the next couple of weeks, it’s safe to assume that future releases of Chrome OS and Android - Jelly Bean will have Google Drive integrated into the OS.

Google’s Drive service should compete with other major free online storage services, such as Box.net and Dropbox. The last screenshot we had talked about included a software installation, which means that the service would be accessible directly from the desktop, possibly from Windows Explorer. The ability to quickly save files to the cloud without having to manually access a web page and use the web interface would be great. This would be a neat little feature to have on existing Google Android and Chrome OS devices. Being able to directly store documents and data directly through the operating system would be handy.

Nokia offers real-time traffic updates to users in Mumbai and Delhi

Nokia had decided to shut down their mobile money service in order to concentrate on their core areas. Looks like, location-based services are a part of their core business, for the company has launched a ‘Traffic Feature’ on Nokia phones for users across two of the nation's busiest cities - Mumbai and Delhi. This service aims at offering comprehensive, real-time traffic information to over 26 million people who can view the real-time traffic and plan their route, accordingly. These traffic updates are made available for Symbian phones on Nokia Drive and Nokia Lumia 800 and Nokia Lumia 710 on Nokia Maps. 

Real-time update

This service seems like a relief to all those irked by traffic issues. It would solve the traffic hassle that we face on a day-to-day basis. Moreover, its ability to offer real-time traffic information will enable its users to quickly decide on an alternate route, avoiding delay to important events. However, this would also depend on how efficiently the service works. The service is powered by Navteq Trafffic Pro real-time traffic service that provides detailed information on traffic speeds on motorways, main and secondary roads to ensure accurate estimated arrival times and more. It is offered by Nokia Location & Commerce keeping in mind diverse global traffic collection network. 

“Location is at the core of our vision for the future; we aim to empower people, via location-aware technology, sensor-rich devices, and the internet, to explore and enjoy the increasingly hybridised physical and digital world around us. Our aim is to introduce new services such as traffic update, which will make consumers early adopters of the latest technology for a stress free and productive life”, said Vipul Mehrotra, Director, Smart devices, Nokia India at the launch.

The company is also said to develop platform services for device manufacturers, application developers, Internet services providers, merchants, and advertisers. 

“The launch of this traffic feature on Nokia smartphones reflects the ever-growing consumer appetite for more interactive location based services beyond traditional turn-by-turn navigation. Going forward we will continue to introduce more location-aware services that represent the future of mobility for consumers in India”, added Rajat Tandon, Director Sales, Nokia, Location & Commerce.

LG Optimus Elite For Sprint and Virgin Leaked

It looks like both Sprint and Virgin Mobile are about to get a new budget Android smartphone on their networks in the US, the LG Optimus Elite, which you can see in the photos below.
According to the guys over at PocketNow, the LG Optimus Elite will come with a 3.2 inch HVGA display and a 5 megapixel camera with a built in flash.

Processing will be provided by an 800MHz processor, unfortunately that is all we know so far, and both devices are expected to retail for under $100 on both networks.

Hackers Can Easily Lift Credit Card Data From Old Xbox Consoles

It has been discovered by researchers at Philadelphia’s Drexel University, that credit card data on older Xbox 360 systems that have been traded in or sold on. may be vulnerable to being hacked fro the previous owners credit card information. The team has discovered that even restoring your console to factory settings won’t remove some of the data stored on the Xbox 360.

Using just a handful of common tools, almost any hacker or modders can remove the Xbox’s hard drive and recover credit card data or other personal information, which has been entered by previous owners. Speaking to gaming website Kotaku, researcher Ashley Podhradsky explained:
“Microsoft is doing a “disservice” to its customers by not doing a better job of keeping personal data protected. Microsoft does a great job of protecting their proprietary information. But they don’t do a great job of protecting the user’s data.”
Read the full article over on the Kotaku website.

Nintendo Wii U gains Green Hills partner

Nintendo has announced that it will partner with development company Green Hills Software to create and implement a development solution for its coming Wii U game console. The company will provide its MULTI integrated development environment to help third parties more easily and efficiently write code for the impending system. It will hopefully help third-party game makers to come on board and support Nintendo in the next generation.


“We selected the Green Hills Software solution because it generates highly optimized code, and Green Hills provides excellent global support,” Nintendo senior managing director of integrated research and design Genyo Takeda said. Nintendo has a great, storied history and of course has moments of industry innovation and record sales. But despite all that, it doesn’t have a super great record of developer relations.
A Nintendo console needs only a Mario game, a Pokemon game, and a Zelda game to be profitable. There are no other franchises in the entire industry like that. But it doesn’t mean Nintendo can not care about third-party developers. The Wii is a case study in the direction that a console takes when it isn’t receiving huge amounts of envelope-pushing support from other players in the industry. Hopefully this partnership with Green Hills Software is a point in the right direction.

LivingSocial Instant deals are dead

LivingSocial has abandoned its location-based “Instant” deals service before it ever made its mark. In addition, company co-founder and former president Eddie Frederick has left the site, and it’s assumed that his departure was not by choice. Frederick likely had an active hand in developing the Instant platform, which has been described as essentially being dead on arrival. Internet success isn’t as easy as it looks.


LivingSocial is the #2 deal website, behind Groupon, but it hasn’t managed to successfully turn itself into anything other than “another Groupon.” The Instant site was supposed to be something that could differentiate itself in the marketplace. However, while Groupon is an Internet success story on the scale of Facebook and YouTube, LivingSocial is just keeping its head above water for now.
In fact, last year it ended up with a $558 million net loss, with only $245 million actually collected in revenue. But there’s a lot of faith that the site can transform into something bigger. It has received more than $800 million in venture capital funding. Part of that was based on presentations LivingSocial made about Instant. These location-based deal services are all over the Web but few of them have become success stories. Now, LivingSocial Instant will be transformed into a local food and delivery service, another muddled market. We’ll see how that goes.

Microsoft Buys XboxFL Domain Names

It looks like Microsoft has acquired two new domains names which are related to its Xbox console, the domain names are XboxFL.com and XboxFL.ent, and were discovered by the guys over at Fusible.
There are no details as yet on what Microsoft has planned for the two domains names, and they are currently being redirected to Microsoft’s Bing.

It could possibly be some sort of new service from Microsoft, or maybe even the name of their next Xbox console although many of us are expecting it to be called the Xbox 720, which certainly sounds a lot better than Xbox FL.

RIM Says They Are Not Abandoning Consumer BlackBerry Market

Earlier today we head RIM’s latest financial results, where the company had made made a loss of $125m for their last financial quarter, And RIM’s CEO Thorsten Heins said that they would be concentrating on their core market of business customers.
This led to speculation that RIM would be abandoning the consumer market for BlackBerry devices, and now RIM has confirmed that they will continue to develop blackberry devices for consumers.


RIM’s MD of global sales and regional marketing, Patrick Spence said that ”We remain committed to all of our Customers (consumer & enterprise) and are enhancing our support/solutions for enterprise” and “[our] goal is to help our enterprise customers capitalise [sic] on the opportunities presented by consumerization while minimizing risks.”
It will be interesting to see what RIM has planned and whether they are able to turn their fortunes around.