Dell XPS 11 laptop-tablet hybrid announced, poses a threat to Lenovo Yoga
The Dell XPS 11 was announced as the newest Windows 8 laptop-tablet hybrid today, striking a pose very similar to that of Lenovo's backward-bending IdeaPad Yoga.
The 11.6 screen of this Dell convertible has a similar hinged keyboard that's always attached to its impressive 2,560 x 1,440 IPS display, according to Engadget.
However, the match-up between it and Yoga is incomplete. Dell has yet to finalize the specs for its holiday-bound convertible laptop.
Only a prototype of the Dell XPS 11 was available at Computex 2013 with the new power-saving Core i5 Haswell processor.
Dell XPS 11 touch keyboard
While Dell is piecing together the final specs of the XPS 11, the company taking a risk by including a touch keyboard similar to that of the Microsoft Surface tablet.But the Touch Cover-like keyboard has its benefits. Chiefly, the flat surface avoids the Yoga's "odd sensation," as Engadget put it, of pressing on powered-down keys when in the folded tablet mode.
The non-tactile touch keyboard will also make for a thinner profile in its final form, which Dell estimates to be 15mm thick and 2.5 pounds.
The Dell XPS 11 should also include a backlit keyboard and digitizer pen by the time it launches this holiday season.
Between now and then, we will see if the established Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga line stretches its specs to meet Dell's newest post-PC machine.
- Find out about Michael Dell's pending deal to take his company private for $24.4 billion.
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Optus quietly ends data bill shock with excess usage caps
Bill shock stories are standard fodder for current affair programs, but it looks like Optus won't be making an appearance in those tales any time soon. The telco has quietly implemented caps on excess data consumption to prevent users getting a nasty surprise come bill time.
Quietly introduced last year, Optus now limits excess data charges to just $200, meaning the days of customers receiving $2000 bills are a thing of the past.
Global roamers are also immune from ludicrous charges, although the cap level rises to $500 a month.
Optus chief country officer, Kevin Russell told the Israel Chamber of Commerce last week that charging thousands of dollars for excess data wasn't a sustainable business model.
"As an industry, we have become increasingly reliant on non-core revenues; revenues that come from breakage fees," he said.
An expensive decision
The choice cut back on excess data charges isn't necessarily a win-win scenario for the telco, which has already seen a big hit to revenue from the decision in its latest results."We got hit, we got hit in terms of our revenue, and our [Average Revenue Per User] was going backwards," Russell explained.
But at the same time, Russell believes that keeping customers happy by not draining their bank balance every time they use more data than allocated will help create real customer loyalty.
With Optus pushing its 4G network rollout hard, using smartphones for data is crucial for the network's success. So it makes sense for Optus to make it as easy as possible to use the devices without being penalised, Russell explained.
"If people want to use 4G and they want to use smartphones, they should be free to use them. If they go through the cap, they should be free to pay just small reasonable amounts to go up to the next level," he said.
Not far enough
While this is still a huge step in the right direction, ACCAN CEO Teresa Corbin believes that the Optus measures don't go far enough.""People choose their plans according to their budget – no one wants to open their bill to find out they've been stung for hundreds of dollars more than they intended to pay," she said in a statement.
ACCAN points to a new mobile consumer protection code introduced in Canada this week that caps excess data usage at $50 and data roaming at $100 a month.
Still, ACCAN is still calling on Vodafone and Telstra to follow suit with the hard cap approach to excess usage to end bill shock once and for all.
"If providers are really listening to their customers they'll know that this is the right product to be offering," she said.
Via: ZDNet
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Computex: Get ready for Windows RT 8.1 devices powered by Snapdragon 800 chips
The Samsung Galaxy S4 (one version of it, anyway) and its quasi-revealed Galaxy Note III won't be alone in the Snapdragon 800 family for very much longer.
Qualcomm today announced that its nippy processor will support Windows RT 8.1 devices, including tablets, convertibles and notebooks.
The news came via a press release tied to Taiwan's Computex, and while it said new devices based on the 800 and Windows RT 8.1 are expected later this year, few other details were as forthcoming.
The release noted the chips offer an integrated multimode 3G/4G LTE modem, USB 3.0 support and CPU speeds that can hit 2.2GHz per core...but you already knew that.
Together we are strong
Unless you've been living under a rock the last few days, it's been hard to miss the mud slung at Windows RT. Even OEM partner Acer saw its CEO say the OS isn't "so influential anymore," though it's arguable it ever was.Windows RT 8.1 and a hopped-up processor may be the shot in the arm the OS needs to get its fire crackling and people buying.
Qualcomm's press release said a free Windows RT 8.1 update will be available in the Windows Store before 2013 is up, and attendees of Computex can spy early versions of the updated OS on Snapdragon 800 processors running it right now.
Could we see a follow-up to the original Surface RT hit the shelves by year-end? We'd bet a few chips on that.
- Until we know more about what Qualcomm and Microsoft have in store, sneak a peak at our Build 2013 hub page
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Updated: Apple's Spotify and Pandora rival takes a big step closer to reality
Update: Yet another report is chiming in with iRadio details, centering on a change to Apple's iAd network that will support the music service.
Bloomberg reported Apple is narrowing mobile ads down to major brands that will run campaigns through its streaming music service (a la Pandora) and not via App Store marketing messages.
Apple's tune service will be free and ad-supported, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg, and while it will be different from iTunes, the two will be closely integrated. One feature will reportedly be the ability to download a song played on iRadio.
Users will be able to build stations around a song or artist, much like Pandora, when the service is released later this year. It will be publicly available around the same time as iOS 7, a source said.
Original article...
Apple's answer to Spotify and Pandora looks to have taken a big step closer to reality, with growing rumours that a deal with Warner has been done ahead of a big reveal at WWDC.
Locally stored music is being squeezed by streaming services like Spotify, with subscriptions allowing access to huge music libraries and cool things like discovery based on your favourites and tracking what your friends are listening to.
Apple, whose iTunes software has been dominant because of the dominance of the iPod and the rise of the iPhone is aware of this evolution and has been planning its own streaming service often dubbed iRadio.
Wheeling and dealing
The negotiations with the music companies appears not to have been straighforward, but the sealing of a deal with Warner, following on from Universal Music Group gives it two of the biggest companies with music rights.- Check out all our news on Apple's rumoured iRadio service
But Apple is expected to join the streaming music party soon, albeit late, with what is widely expected to be a free but ad-funded service.
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Computex: Mozilla finds another Firefox friend in Foxconn as mystery tablet appears
Mozilla continued to hype its Firefox OS plans at Computex in Taiwan this week, revealing a deal with manufacturer Foxconn as well as the first Firefox OS tablet.
Foxconn and Mozilla will collaborate on numerous devices using the HTML5-based Firefox OS, according to a press release sent out today.
Foxconn's involvement won't be limited to hardware production, either.
The announcement said that "Foxconn is extending past its origins…to a combination of integrated software and hardware offerings, which extends its domain to the open operating platform and positively carries out its integration plan of hardware, software, content, and services."
Firefox OS getting off the ground
Firefox OS is launching this month in emerging markets, and Mozilla is no doubt eager to see how its baby will be received. Partnerships with manufacturers like Foxconn are sure to help it gain ground."Because of our shared vision, we are excited to work with Mozilla," said Foxconn Innovation Digital System Business Group General Manager Young Liu.
"Firefox OS from Mozilla is based on HTML5 and open web technologies. The whole idea perfectly matches to the strategies promoted by Foxconn. We believe that the integration of software and hardware development will offer greater benefits to our customers and consumers," Liu continued.
What's that tablet?
Mozilla also showed off its first Firefox OS tablet at Computex, according to Engadget.Despite the tablet's appearance, though, few details were provided.
It's unclear if the tablet is part of the Foxconn partnership or something else entirely, but hopefully more will be revealed soon.
We've asked Mozilla to provide more information about the mysterious Firefox OS tablet, and we'll update this story if and when we receive any.
- Waiting for your opportunity to switch to Firefox OS? Here's why TechRadar thinks it might be the next Android.
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Fresh MacBook Air, revamped MacBook Pro Retina hinted ahead of WWDC
Apple may open next week's WWDC 2013 by introducing new MacBook Pro Retina and MacBook Air computers, with some leaks out today pointing to the machines as distinct possibilities.
Newly uncovered SKUs, believed to be for Apple's notebooks, were sent to 9to5Mac: the cryptic MD711LL/A - Better, MD712LL/A - Best, MD760LL/A - Better, and MD761LL/A - Best.
In all likelihood, these model numbers belong to either a refreshed MacBook Pro Retina or MacBook Air, as Apple is known for always offering two screen sizes with two different configurations.
The difference between the specs typically amount to processor speeds, RAM and storage capacity, if Apple's MacBook configuration history holds true.
2013 MacBook Pro Retina, Air
Even though it looks as if the four model numbers conform to one MacBook line, WWDC could still debut both a refreshed Pro Retina and Air.The 2013 MacBook Pro Retina is rumored to be receiving a slimmer profile in addition to having its processor bumped up to the Intel Haswell chip next week.
Likewise, the 2013 MacBook Air would benefit from the battery-saving Haswell processor and previous reports have indicated the Air line is due for dual-microphones.
The MacBook Air refresh was also thought to be the next in line to receive a Retina display, but the added cost for Apple's lowest-priced laptop would make that a challenge, at least at this year's WWDC.
Towering Mac Pro redesign
Apple's Mac Pro redesign may also be talked about at next week's conference, as the company has promised to redesign its desktop computer before the end of 2013.A passionate fan of the Mac Pro line created the "We Want a New Macpro" Facebook page - now 20,570 likes strong - and says he received tips from multiple sources recently.
The 2013 Mac Pro is said to be heavily reliant on Apple's Thunderbolt interface with the radical move of doing away with FireWire 800 ports and optical drives.
Another bold move is the Mac Pro's supposed lack of internal expandability. This would mean that Apple's desktop would be falling in line with the rest of its one-size-fits-all computers.
The redesigned Mac Pro is said to be a fall release, meaning there's a good chance that computer-focused WWDC is the best time for its unveiling.
With Apple also thought to be previewing Mac OS X 10.9 at WWDC, this means that the event's only post-PC announcement will be the confirmed Jony Ive iOS 7 debut ahead of the expected September launch of iPhone 5S.
- Did you know E3 2013 kicks off the same day at WWDC? Which TechRadar coverage will you follow more? Decisions, decisions.
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Blip: Size got in the way: Zynga slashes jobs to better fit mobile gaming reality
Zynga today took another step towards rescuing itself from complete implosion as it announced the lay off of approximately 18 percent of its work force, or 520 employees.
In a note to workers that was later posted on its blog, Zynga Founder and CEO Mark Pincus laid out the reasons for the "structural changes" :
"The scale that served us so well in building and delivering the leading social gaming service on the web is now making it hard to successfully lead across mobile and multiplatform, which is where social games are going to be played," Pincus wrote.
The company is also shuttering several offices - in New York, Los Angeles and Dallas, according to AllThingsD - for a total savings of between $70 million and $80 million (around UK£45.6 million/£51.2million, AU$71.7 million/$82 million).
Zynga seems to think addition by subtraction will work as it looks to scale its business appropriately. For fans of FarmVille and other Zynga franchises, let's hope the downsizing has an upside.
More blips
The news never stops, and neither do our blips.- Vine for Android live on Google Play today
- Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom saunters through States after Middle-East leak
- Judge orders police to hand back Kim Dotcom's assets
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In Depth: Hover craft: the art of using Air View
The Samsung GALAXY S4 is the first non-Note device to offer Air View, the hover-friendly technology that was introduced on the Samsung GALAXY Note II.
Quickly becoming our favourite smart feature on the GALAXY S4, it's one of those things we never realised we needed until we had it. Now, we can't imagine our mobile life without it.
What is Air View?
Air View comes into play when you hover your finger over the Samsung GALAXY S4 (or the S Pen over the GALAXY Note II). For the most part, it's a means of previewing what's on your phone with minimum effort and fuss.For example, when in a gallery, it lets you see inside albums without opening them, while in the Email app, it gives you a look at the main body of each message.
How is this better than opening a folder or an email? Simply put – it saves you time. It's instant, it doesn't disrupt whatever else you're doing and, if you do decide to tap-through, it lets you know you're opening the right thing.
How do I turn it on?
Air View isn't switched on by default on the Samsung GALAXY S4. To activate it, pull down the notification bar in the quick settings menu (by swiping from the top of the screen towards the bottom) and tap the top-right-hand button to display all your quick toggle options.
Tap the Air View option to turn it green and you're good to go!
How do I use Air View in S Planner?
S Planner is the GALAXY S4's calendar app and boasts an advanced tabbed layout to quickly view your calendar by year, month, week, day, list view or task view.
Air View takes this to the next level by digging down within each tab. So in year view, each month is magnified by a simple finger hover. In month view, each day's events can be accessed in the same way. In week view, a hover over a calendar entry will pull up a peek into event details such as location and time.
How do I use Air View in Email?
With its combined inboxes for multiple accounts and a white-on-black UI that takes full advantage of the HD Super AMOLED display, Samsung's Email app on the GALAXY S4 easily trumps its Gmail equivalent.With Air View, it also lets you see the content of each message before you open it, saving you from opening a dozen emails with the same subject line just to find the one you want.
How do I use Air View in Gallery?
Taking advantage of Air View in the Gallery app is a piece of cake. Just hover your finger over a folder and a pop-up window will appear showing a preview grid of thumbnail images.
The more folders you have, the more helpful this becomes, and the easier it gets, the more it encourages you to take lots more photos, safe in the knowledge you'll never have any trouble finding that important design sketch among 500 cute pictures of dogs.
How do I use Air View in Video Player?
There are two great ways to use Air View when you want to watch a video. Firstly, you can use it for folder previews in just the same way as you can in the Gallery app – but with pop-out previews that actually move!
Secondly, and even more ingeniously, you can even use it when a video is playing to get a glimpse of what's coming up without disrupting the playback.
Simply float a finger anywhere along the timeline and a preview frame will appear, showing you the shot that corresponds with that point in the video.
How do I use Air View in Flipboard?
Flipboard is a feed aggregator that presents news and social media services in a handsome, magazine-style layout. It's not a native Samsung device, yet its developers have been quick to realise just how useful Air View can be.
So, float a finger above one of the feeds on its front page, and you'll get an expanded view of the top three posts in that section, so it's easy to see if it's worth tapping through, be it a Facebook update, a tweet, or a breaking news story.
Where else can I use it?
Air View can also be used to display the name of contacts assigned to speed dial numbers, to magnify a portion of a web page, and to expand email and text message notifications in your notification bar.
Which features you'll use most depends on how you use your GALAXY S4, but once you switch Air View on, the one thing your finger won't be hovering over is the option to switch it off again!
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Computex: Acer forecasts most of its products will use touch screens by 2015
The annual Computex show has only just kicked off, and already Taiwanese manufacturer Acer is making some bold statements and claims with its newly announced products.
After announcing a new phablet, the Liquid S1, and a new, winnowed-down Windows 8 tablet in the Iconia W3, the range of touch screen devices manufactured by Acer is visibly on the rise.
It shouldn't come as a surprise then to learn Acer Chairman J.T. Wang believes touch screen devices will dominate the landscape at the company in just a few years.
According to Wang, up to 80 percent of Acer's products will feature touch screens by the year 2015, with that steady growth already present by the end of 2013.
Touch too much
Speaking with Reuters at Computex, Wang revealed sales of notebook computers with touch screens would rise from 25 percent this quarter to 30 to 35 percent by the end of this year.That 10 percent leap is only the beginning of the rapid growth Wang and Acer expect to occur over the course of the next two years.
"Price and supply for touch panels provide some constraints now but that will ease and boost the penetration of touch devices," Wang said.
Even with PC sales struggling mightily so far this year, Acer believes the growing touch screen market will help revive the declining PC consumer base.
Acer has a variety of touch screen notebooks on the horizon, including the just-announced Aspire S7 Haswell revamp and the Zenbook Infinity, which could help it step out of fourth-place among PC vendors and into third.
Intel is helping make a major push for the mobile PC market with its Haswell chips, which could help Acer reach its estimates, but both companies had better hope PC sales are revitalized soon, otherwise it won't matter how many touch screen computers the company has in its line-up.
- Want to learn more about the best Windows 8 laptops?
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In Depth: Share options: Group Play Music explained
Sharing music with friends used to be a real hassle. In the time it took to connect your phones and transfer the files, you might as well have made each other a C90 mix tape!
But with Group Play pre-installed on the Samsung GALAXY S4, tuning in to your friends' tunes couldn't be simpler.
Music to your ears? Here's how it works…
1. Leader Of The Pack
Group Play uses Wi-Fi Direct technology, which creates a personal Wi-Fi network for you and your buddies.
All it takes is for one of you to tap on the app, create a group and then choose a password (because you don't want to share with the whole world). You now have a 'master phone' – and a gateway to a world of sharing.
2. Take Five
Once the master phone is enabled, simply tap another GALAXY S4 to the back of it, and the devices will synchronise using NFC, giving instant access the group.
You can share your music across four other GALAXY S4 devices simultaneously, while continuing to use your smartphone's other impressive features normally.
3. Boom, Shake The Room
The master phone can not only control what you all listen to, but also how it sounds on each connected device.
So if you're having a house party with an S4 in every room, it's easy to set appropriate volume levels for each one.
With all the handsets dotted around one room, you can even set up a finely tuned surround-sound system!
4. Keep On Moving
And of course, sharing works equally well with headphones, so you can all enjoy the same music on the move without attracting the ire of other people in the vicinity!
With Group Play on the bus or train, every trip becomes a silent disco, and having your earbuds in doesn't have to mean an antisocial journey!
5. All Together Now
However you and your friends choose to listen to your tunes, once you've got a network going, there's no need to stop at sharing music, either.
With Group Play enabled, you can also control photo slideshows across devices, jointly edit pictures and documents, and play multiplayer games.
How's that for social networking!
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Microsoft may court more device makers with lower Windows RT fees
Mobile devices running Windows RT have been around for less than a year, but Microsoft may already have plans to get additional manufacturers on board.
Bloomberg reported today that Microsoft could soon reduce the fees it charges hardware makers for this variant of Windows, which currently holds less than one percent of the market.
Designed for mobile ARM processors, Windows RT launched in Microsoft's own Surface RT tablet, but has struggled to gain traction against a tidal wave of Android-based models and Apple's iPad, which holds a commanding 40 percent of the tablet market.
Only last week, reports surfaced that Taiwanese manufacturer HTC planned to scrub plans to introduce an RT-based tablet, fearing "lackluster demand" for the operating system, which doesn't run traditional Windows software written for Intel processors.
Lower prices ahead
According to unnamed sources, Microsoft may be planning to stimulate interest by reducing the license fees manufacturers are required to pay for Windows RT, even as longtime partners such as Acer remain on the fence.On Sunday, Acer Chairman and Chief Executive Officer J.T. Wang told The Wall Street Journal that Windows RT is not "so influential anymore," suggesting his company might skip the OS entirely.
Over the last year, only four other RT tablets have been produced aside from Microsoft's own. Companies such as Asus, HP and Dell remain committed to the platform, even as Intel continues to make advances in its own low-power mobile processors.
A Microsoft spokesperson declined to comment on the Bloomberg report, but the company is expected to further discuss Windows RT as part of its annual Build developer conference later this month.
- Find out all the latest on Build 2013 in our handy hub page
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Hold out no more: HTC One joining Verizon lineup 'later this summer'
The "will it, won't it" game is finally over. Verizon today confirmed that it will carry the HTC One.
The company was the lone major carrier holding out on HTC's flagship device, but that all will change in a few months' time.
"It's coming - the HTC One will be available on the #Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network later this summer," @VZWnews, the official Verizon news handle, tweeted.
AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile already carry the handset, and many in the industry expected Big Red to join the One parade at some point. Though we don't have a firm release date, "later this summer" is as good as it's going to get for now.
Oh happy day
When we asked HTC during CTIA 2013 if we would ever see the One on Verizon, we got a "nothing to announce" response that left little to interpretation. However, it appears the arrival was all but assured.There are still plenty of questions left unanswered, such as what software it may throw on the handset, color variations, price details and if the One will replace the Droid DNA. When asked, a Verizon rep only repeated the season-specific release time frame.
HTC USA, which retweeted Verizon's initial announcement, said more details would come "closer to availability" when asked by @jjkamp if a stock vanilla Android version was a possibility.
Why Verizon decided to forgo a formal press release or statement we don't know, though the casual tweet shouldn't undermine the heft of the news.
Bringing HTC's acclaimed handset to its network is a coup for Verizon and its customers, not to mention HTC, a firm's with widely broadcast financial troubles.
Now that the One is coming to all of American's major carriers and arriving in stock Android form June 26, perhaps the phone maker can start hoping for a turnaround, not to mention a One-ness among U.S. customers. Ommmm.
- Interested in learning why the U.S. and U.K. versions of the One lack microSD support?
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Next-gen animal camera traps among winners of Google Impact Challlenge
A team of judges including Tim Berners-Lee and Sir Richard Branson have announced the winners of Google's Impact Challenge, awarding £2.6 million between four charities who are trying to change the world through innovative technology.
The judging panel, decided on three worthy causes for the £500,000 prizes with the public vote choosing a fourth.
More than five million people voted, but as you might have predicted given the UK's love of animals, it was the Zoological Society of London picked out for the public choice.
The judging panel's selection were SolarAid, Integrity Action and CDI Apps for Good and all four will also receive mentoring from Google staff.
The other six finalists were granted £100,000 to perfect and deliver their projects
Global Impact Award project details:
1. SolarAid will enable widespread access to low-cost, safe solar lighting in off-grid African communities currently reliant on kerosene lighting. (www.solar-aid.org)2. Integrity Action will improve public infrastructure and services in war-torn countries through an online and mobile platform for citizens to report on development projects. (www.integrityaction.org)
3. CDI Apps For Good will revolutionise computing education by engaging youth in the hands-on creation of apps. (www.appsforgood.org)
4. The Zoological Society of London will use next generation camera traps, equipped with automated sensors, to better protect threatened wildlife. (www.zsl.org)
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Updated: Cheap iPhone release date, news and rumours
The iPhone. For many it's the hottest bit of tech you can own, a fashion statement and powerful travel companion all in one - but for others it's an overly expensive solution to a problem which is solved equally well by cheaper Android and Windows Phone devices.
But perhaps not for much longer. Alongside the talk of an inevitable iPhone 5S and iPhone 6, we've noticed a rash of slightly more eyebrow-raising news suggesting a cheap iPhone could be on the way.
Word of a budget iPhone has been doing the rounds for the past few years, but the reports have intensified post-iPhone 5.
Apple itself has been hit-and-miss when it comes to talking about a cheaper iPhone, with Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller saying in January that the firm's focus will never be on low cost handsets, while CEO Tim Cook said "we are making moves to make things more affordable" in February - so make of that what you will.
We've perused all the leaks, claims, suggestions and "upstream supply chain" comments to bring you the latest vibe on the cheap iPhone and whether we will see one or not.
It's a (release) date!
Apple has stayed true to form and hasn't given any details away regarding its next smartphone(s), but we're expecting the next iPhone instalment to arrive in September, and thus this seems the mostly likely time for the budget iPhone to stride onto the scene.Some sources have suggested the next fleet of iPhones could be with us sooner - around July/August time, which could mean we're in for a treat when WWDC (Apple's annual conference) rolls around in June.
Updates: Case manufacturer Tactus claims the cheaper iPhone will arrive in October - which would fit in with the September/October launch event Apple is thought to have planned.
If the idea of a low-cost iPhone has taken your fancy then you may find it difficult to get hold of one when it initially goes on sale. According to a DigiTimes source the budget iPhone will have a limited release at first, with the focus being put on emerging markets.
Talk of an earlier release still hasn't gone away, with another source eyeing up the possibility of a WWDC arrival of the cheaper iPhone at the end of June.
How low can you go?
Price is the single biggest factor when it comes to a budget iPhone, but it's one part of the puzzle which has not seen much in the way of leaks.A cheap iPhone needs to be able to challenge the cost effective Android and Windows Phone handsets which are currently populating the bottom end of the market, so really we'd like to see it rock up somewhere in the region of £200/$310/AU$300).
The only thing we've seen regarding the price of a cheaper iPhone is a rumour suggesting Apple is targeting the $330 (around £210/AU$310) price point - which would be nice.
Update: The $300 mark looks to be a popular choice, with case manufacturer Tactus also touting this price.
No Retina for your retinas
There is some confusion over the screen size of the cheaper iPhone, with some reports suggesting it will pack a 4.5-inch display, while others point towards a smaller 4-inch offering - similar to the one found on the fifth generation iPods and iPhone 5.If Apple are really looking at a more affordable iPhone we'd be surprised if it turns up sporting a screen which is bigger than the iPhone 5, and we reckon 4 inches or below is far more likely.
Don't go expecting the budget iPhone to pack the beautiful retina display of its brothers though, with the low-cost handset far more likely to land a lower resolution - possibly 1,136 x 640.
Update: Other reports suggest Apple may return to its origins and supply the cheaper iPhone with a 3.5-inch display.
Plastic fantastic
We've become accustomed to the iPhone's premium design, with high quality materials oozing style and class, but things could well get a lot more plastic with a cheaper iPhone.According to the Wall Street Journal, Apple is looking to clad the budget iPhone in polycarbonate, instead of aluminium and toughened glass, in an attempt to keep the cost down.
These musings have be reinforced by Digitimes' famous "upstream supply chain sources", who also revealed the cheaper iPhone would rock up with a plastic body.
Apparently the budget iPhone won't just be a jazzed up iPhone 3GS, nor will it be a scaled down iPhone 5, with iLounge claiming the cheaper iPhone will be an absurd mash-up of the latest iPhone and iPod, plus the original iPod classic - retro!
Update: Our first proper glimpse of the cheap iPhone might be the offering below, which shows a while handset with a lovely plastic finish and a design which is reminiscent of the iPhone 3GS. According to this report you can expect to see the budget iPhone rock up in black, white, blue, red or yellow variants.
Stop, colour time
What's this, an iPhone which doesn't just come in black and white? Well yes, that may become reality with a cheaper iPhone on the cards.Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo (who actually has a decent track record) reckons the budget iPhone will be available in a range of colours, with apparently between four and six choices.
This was followed by sources who spoke to Macotakara, claiming the cheap iPhone will be available in five colours - which could see it sport the same blue, red and yellow which accompany the black and white on the current range of iPods.
More, more, more
In terms of other specs details have been hard to come by for the budget iPhone, although we've now seen a report which suggests the handset will sport an A5 processor and 5MP rear camera.
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Updated: Samsung Galaxy S5: What we want to see
The Samsung Galaxy S4 has finally landed - and we loved it, as you'll see through our in-depth review. It's light, slim and powerful, and has the best screen we've seen on a smartphone.
But we know what you're like. You're already thinking about the Galaxy S5. You're looking at the S4 and wondering: "You know what, could Samsung have done better in some areas? Like make it FLY?"
Well, clearly you're insane if you're asking for that, but your point is valid: there's always more than can be done to make the ultimate smartphone.
Word is that Samsung is already hard at work on the design of the new range of devices: simply codenamed 'Design 3.0' top level meetings have already begun in Seoul to make sure the new Galaxy range is more revolutionary.
To that end, we've put our thinking caps on and done the work for the South Korean firm - here are the things that we simply must have on the Galaxy S5 to make it a success and beat the new HTC One:
A flexible design
Anyone using an HTC One will know that the reaction it inspires really is immense.It's no exaggeration to say that more often than not, people will say: 'Wow, what's that?'. The sad fact is that we just don't get the same reaction from the S4, with most people just actually thinking it's the Galaxy S3.
One of its predecessor's main criticisms was that the use of plastic made it look and feel cheap (that even applies to the Galaxy S2 from a few years back – though not the Galaxy S, since few people took any real notice of the first iteration.)
When the S4 was announced, it didn't even need to be felt – people instantly criticised how cheap that all-plastic façade is going to feel.
Sure, it keeps the phone light (in fairness, the HTC One weighs a fair bit in the hand, by comparison) but Apple's managed to pull off glass and metal and lightness with the iPhone 5 so surely Samsung can manage the same. If only to annoy Apple even more.
The other ideal would be to utilise its flexible display technology - Youm - to bring some new techology to the new design. We're not talking a completely bendy phone (that would actually be rubbish right now) but how about the designs shown off at trade shows recently? That would be amazing.
A sleeker system
One of the things we've always liked about Samsung is that it pushed the envelope in terms of what its phones could do. It added innovation, it did things nobody else did, and then it worked out how to package it in a way that made things simple and looked half decent.In this respect, its nadir was the Samsung Galaxy S3. Yes, it felt too cheap, but it had tonnes of innovation under the hood (Smart Stay, for instance, wasn't a total waste of time).
The problem was it went overboard with the Galaxy S4. Smart Scroll, Smart Pause and more all added complexity to a system that was already close to the limit, so all those selling points became annoyances and were quickly turned off.
Samsung, you're great at one thing: making innovation usable. With the Samsung Galaxy S5 think about that and make sure that if you add in flexible screens or eye tracking technology to create auto-3D images, you do it in a way that genuinely adds something to our lives, not just innovation for the sake of it.
If you need to make some space, get rid of that front and back cameras dual-recording feature. Nobody is ever going to use that.
Bigger battery
We always ask for these and the S4 has graced us with a larger power pack than the S3 – it's up from 2,100 to 2,600mAh. It's a fairly decent jump – but still likely to just give a day of moderate use thanks to that huge, sharp screen.Just look at the HTC One – that has a 2,300mAh power pack yet struggles to exceed the 1,440mAh battery of the iPhone 5 in daily usage. The fact of the matter is that the OS has a huge part to play – so upping the mAh count doesn't necessarily mean a revolution in terms of endurance.
The Motorola RAZR Maxx has been out since last summer and manages to pack in a 3,300mAh battery, which genuinely puts the hours in.
Since Samsung is such a technologically advanced company, if it were to come up with something huge like a 4,000mAh pack that's slim to boot, it would nail the Android market (even more.) Come on boys – you have a year to do this.
Stereo speakers
Again we're drawing a comparison with the HTC One here but that's to be expected; especially since said device will be its main Android competitor (along with the Sony Xperia Z, of course, which we mustn't forget.) But there is something unique here.See, HTC has raised the bar here – the sound bar, that is. Some assumed it would be a gimmick, putting two speakers on the front of the phone and calling it BoomSound. But here's the thing: it does sound amazing. To the extent that we often leave calls ringing longer than we need to so that we can enjoy the ringtone.
The Galaxy S4 doesn't go for anything so lavish – offering a mere grill on the back with a small speaker we fully expect to be loud, yet tinny. Sure, there may be limited call for deep surround sound or anything as elaborate, but why scrimp on features when including so much in other areas?
We imagine Group Play will be Samsung's answer – but considering that requires other Galaxy owners, it's a bit of a faff.
Samsung could really pull something unique out the bag here – especially considering it's got a proven relationship with audio extradordinaires Bang and Olufsen. Even the iPhone 5 speaker is fairly decent – so come on Sammy.. finger out, please.
FM Radio
Odd one this, but the S4 is the first Galaxy device to not ship with an FM radio. It's a bit of an add-on that many don't use, but others (especially commuters) are very attached to their FM radio feature on their phones.Samsung's already stated that it left the S4 FM radio out not through any technical issue, but because more people are now streaming their music through YouTube and online services. Which is true. Apps like TuneIn Radio do offer a great service.
The problem is that you're reliant on a good web connection for this – at the very least, 3G, and even then, there can be problems with buffering. The majority of journeys will pass through different signal strengths and types and this just means that you'll have to stop listening to the radio whether you want to or not.
Sure, we know that firm decisions lead to progress (look at Steve Jobs refusing to fit a floppy drive on the original iMac) but this just smacks of silliness since it would have made absolutely no difference to Samsung. We're even thinking of writing to our local MP about it.
Beam it up, Sammy
We'll lay this on the line before we start: this is one of our more fanciful wishes, given the technology (and desire from many consumers) is a long way away. But we'd love to see a projector built into the S5. Samsung managed it already with the Galaxy Beam last year, even though that was a bit of a niche device. But it makes perfect sense.Forget AllShare (or maybe not 'forget' but at least run it alongside) and turn the S5 into something that everybody can enjoy. The problem is now that if you want to share your photos/videos etc, you either have to buy a dongle or have a Smart TV. It's very niche.
Apple has managed to do well with marketing its AirPlay so you can stream YouTube etc to Apple TV but again, you have to fork out for an Apple TV to do it, then turn the thing on, change your TV input source and so forth.
Wouldn't it be great if you could just stream everything using a projector to a wall? Obviously, there are issues with light interference, but we're sure Samsung could invent something that overcomes that problem.
And with those amazing stereo speakers we're lobbying for, it would also sort out the audio problem. Hey, it could even lead to more uptake of things like WatchON, with people buying movies and then streaming them straight to the wall when friends are round. There's an incentive for you there, Samsung.
Streamlined stores
Speaking of WatchON, this would be something we'd like to see sorted: a true partnership with Google. Sure, we realise that hell is more likely to see temperatures drop below freezing before then, but the issue is that there is just too much choice.We're all for freedom – but when you have both Google and Samsung trying to sell you songs, movies, books, apps and magazines at the same time, through competing apps, it gets a little tiring.
The app drawer is littered with more options than you can shake a stick at and for those who aren't completely au-fait with smartphone tech, it's a little confusing and intimidating.
Apple makes so much of the whole fact that it is just one company providing everything – the next best thing would be for Samsung to work out with Google a common strategy for sharing revenue here and at least streamlining it for the consumer.
We know it's not going to happen because Google won't want to favour Samsung – and also there is the matter of Samsung wanting to end its dependence on Google (hence the Tizen revolution we're not really expecting), but it's nice to dream of one, unified store.
3D screen
We've left this one to last as this probably sounds the most ridiculous – but it's worth giving it a moment's thought. See, screen resolutions have hit the ceiling now. Back when Nokia invented the 7650 with its tiny colour palette, we cooed.When the 7210 came along with a square screen rocking 4096 hues, we gasped. And when the iPhone 4 launched with the famous Retina branding, it really was revolutionary.
But phones like the S4 and HTC One now have PPIs that destroy home flatscreen TVs. There isn't any point in making them sharper, because the eye can't discern any difference. We have, pretty much, reached a plateau.
3D's not taken off as well as it could have with TV's. Yeah, it's great to play with, but it's hardly making the waves that the HD revolution did. And it has been tried before with LG. Remember the Optimus 3D?
We only gave it 3.5 stars when it came out the best part of two years ago and there was a reason: glasses-free 3D just wasn't there. As we'd seen with the Nintendo 3DS, it tired the eyes very quickly, it had to be viewed at exactly the right angle and was pretty much just a fad.
Bearing in mind how much Samsung really wants to get one over on LG here (only recently, we looked at the intense competition between the two firms in Seoul), just think how much this could motivate Samsung to pull out a really decent solution.
There's a glimmer of hope here: Samsung has already patented the idea to use dual camera to track your eye direction, which would mean the 3D image would follow your eyes and would completely negate the need to keep your head in the 'sweet spot'.
App makers are more likely to make 3D apps for the Galaxy range because it is not an also-ran Android line but (at least some would say) the Android iteration to go for. And Samsung could sponsor these apps to get them in the Google Play store (or Samsung's own). Movies, the camera, games, even the OS, could be transformed with the right technique.
And there concludes our wish list. Sure, it's elaborate. And we'll be surprised if the less obvious points above make the final build of the S5. But there is no doubt that Samsung will already be hard at work on planning the S4's successor – and we'd love to see some really unique features introduced.
A year's a long time in mobile life. And we've seen just how much a company can go from HTC Hero to zero (OK, HTC wasn't quite at the lowest level – but don't ruin our analogy). HTC was the Android maker for a time and has been usurped by Samsung.
It may be on the up with the HTC One again – it certainly stands a chance – but the competition is fiercer than it's ever been. And it'll get uglier before it gets better. Samsung will need to work hard to keep its Android crown.
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In Depth: Mega bites: essential foodie apps for the S4 and Note 8.0
Food, glorious food. Can't live without it… no, you really can't. Good food used to be the preserve of chefs and show-offs, but with ever more foodie apps available for your Samsung GALAXY device, there's no excuse for not eating like a king – and we don't mean a Burger King, either.
Here are 10 lip-smacking apps guaranteed to whet your appetite for a bit of culinary creativity. You'll wonder how you ever coped in the kitchen without them – just remember not to mistake your Note 8.0 for a really classy chopping board!
BigOven
Free Get it here
This app certainly lives up to its name, with some 250,000 recipes on offer. And with options to search them by keyword, ingredient or collection, if you can't find something here to tickle your tastebuds, you probably haven't got any. It can even help you rustle up something scrumptious when your cupboards are almost bare, by matching your limited list of ingredients with dishes from its database.
Evernote Food
Free Get it here
Created by the same folks behind the similarly named note-taker, this app is designed to record your best food finds. Jot down meal ideas (using the S Pen on the Note 8.0), add photos, save shop and market locations, and build your own cookbook by clipping recipes from around the web. And when you don't fancy slaving over a hot stove, you can even search for restaurants and book a table.
Food Planner
Free Get it here
With options to sync across a range of devices as well as your Google Calendar, this app helps you keep on top of your weekly meal plan right down to the last mouthful, no matter where you are. So why not put your feet up at home and make a shopping list using your GALAXY Note 8.0, while your other half schleps round the supermarket with it instantly updating on his or her GALAXY S4?
Foodspotting
Free Get it here
These days we all like to photograph our food. And with the cameras on both the GALAXY Note 8.0 and the GALAXY S4 ideal for getting classy shots of your latest culinary creation, why on earth shouldn't we? Acting as a social network of sorts, this app allows you to upload your best foodographs, add comments, and find decent restaurants nearby for snapping and snacking alike.
BBC Good Food Recipes
Free Get it here
This free app offers just 20 recipes, but it's a great way to get a taste of the excellent premium version, which offers hundreds more. As well as some really great recipes (broken down into categories including quick dishes, cakes, and party ideas), it also offers handy cooking information, such as the best way to chop specific vegetables and how to properly poach an egg.
Dinner Spinner
Free Get it here
This handy app uses a barcode scanner to suggest meals you can make with what's in your cupboards. Drawing its content from the vast archives of alltherecipes.com, it also lets you search for recipes by cooking time or ingredient, or find inspiration by shaking your device for a random recipe. Whether delicious or disastrous, integrated buttons for Twitter and Facebook make it easy to share the results!
Jamie's 20 Minute Meals
£2.99 Buy it here
When he's not trying to save schools from a culinary disaster, Jamie Oliver is also one of the best chefs around, making this app something of a must-have. Detailed videos hosted by Jamie show you how to make many of the meals and look great on the GALAXY S4's AMOLED screen and the Note 8.0's larger display, while further video guides are full of informative tips and easy-to-follow advice.
Man v. Food
Free Get it here
Man v. Food is an epic TV battle in which the host chows down on the biggest, most gut-busting bites the US restaurant trade has to offer. Happily for your insides, this spin-off app doesn't suggest you follow in his fat steps, but instead offers a diverting food-based game that sees you trying to assemble the biggest meal you can before it all tips over into so much floor pie.
Recipe Search
Free Get it here
Boring name, brilliant app. Boasting the most comprehensive recipe listing service around, Recipe Search offers a whopping 150,000 dishes from around the world, sourced from cooking community website allthecooks.com. Voice search functionality is great when you've got sticky fingers, and you can even add your own recipes to the massive database through the app.
Urbanspoon
Free Get it here
This fantastic restaurant finder will suggest the best, cheapest or nearest places to eat in a wide range of countries, including the UK and the USA, with new places being added all of the time. Simply shake your GALAXY S4 for a random suggestion, or lock different options to narrow the results. As the name suggests, its best used in big towns and cities, but that is where you tend to be spoiled for choice.
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Is Microsoft moving away from software? Sources say yes
A major restructuring of Microsoft could mean that the company is moving away from software and focusing instead devices and services, in a development led by CEO Steve Ballmer.
According to a report from All Things Digital, several high-level executives are also being moved around to facilitate the change in direction.
Ballmer had previously indicated that such a shift was part of the company's plan. In the 2012 annual company report, Ballmer wrote: "Last year in this letter I said that over time, the full value of our software will be seen and felt in how people use devices and services at work and in their personal lives.
"This is a significant shift, both in what we do and how we see ourselves - as a devices and services company. It impacts how we run the company, how we develop new experiences, and how we take products to market for both consumers and businesses."
New challenger
The shift in focus doesn't necessarily mean that Microsoft will spend less time doing what it's good at - developing software.Windows is still one of the biggest desktop operating systems in the world and Microsoft is unlikely to neglect its pioneering software.
There is, however, increased competition from an improving Ubuntu OS as well as desktops that run Android and Apple's OSx that's spreading influence across a range of devices, which may have forced Microsoft to rethink its future strategy.
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Updated: Samsung Galaxy Note 3 release date, news and rumours
With the Samsung Galaxy S4 now out of the way the door has been thrown open for the Korean firm's other high-end smartphone to get a reboot in the form of the Samsung Galaxy Note 3.
Rumours are circulating about Samsung's next super-sized handset, suggesting it's going to get even bigger - even though the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 raised eyebrows with its larger size.
Samsung executive J.K. Shin has confirmed the existence of the Galaxy Note 3, revealing it will feature a non-flexible 5.9-inch OLED display.
Update: And now Samsung Kazakhstan has slipped up, accidentally revealing the Galaxy Note 3 on its official website alongside the Galaxy Z4 Zoom and Galaxy Tab 3 10.1.
We're constantly on the look out for Galaxy Note 3 news and you'll be able to find all the latest right here. You lucky things.
Announcement and release date
In terms of a Samsung Galaxy Note 3 release date the trail is pretty cold at the moment with "later this year" all we have to go on for now.If previous iterations of the handset are anything to go by we can expect Samsung to uncover the third generation Galaxy Note smartphone towards the end of August, in the run up to IFA 2013 in Berlin.
Samsung executive J.K. Shin has said the Note 3 will arrive at IFA in September, although we're still waiting on an official comment from Samsung itself.
This would mean that the Galaxy Note 3 would probably hit stores around October if previous cycles are maintained - but given the Samsung Galaxy S4 emerged earlier this year, could the same trick be repeated for the Note 3?
Update: A separate report suggests something rather different however, tipping the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 release date for July or August - although we'd be surprised if the Korean firm didn't wait for IFA in September.
More than a pretty penny in price
You can expect the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 to carry a hefty price tag, probably in line with the Galaxy S4 - making it more expensive than its Chinese rivals the ZTE Grand Memo and the Huawei Ascend Mate.The Note 3 will probably set you back at least £550 (around $800/AU$770) give or take, plus there will be regional variances too.
Does the screen need to get bigger?
Although exact specs are still unknown the general consensus seems to suggest that the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 will sport an even bigger screen than its 5.5-inch predecessor.Early reports pointed towards a whopping 6.3-inch display, which would see the handset dwarf the 6.1-inch Ascend Mate and 5.7-inch Grand Memo.
Other sources have claimed that the Galaxy Note 3 could actually pack a slightly more modest 5.9-inch AMOLED screen.
We thought Samsung may have let the cat out of the bag on its own website after listing a smartphone accessory compatible with screens from "4- to 6.3-inches", potentially hinting at a massive display bump for the Note 3 - although with the announcement of the Galaxy Mega 5.8 and Galaxy Mega 6.3 this is now less likely.
Screen size, then, remains a mystery but that's not the only quandary we have regarding the display on the Galaxy Note 3. Oh no, there are now reports suggesting it will be the first phone to sport a flexible OLED display.
Samsung did show off such a display at CES 2013 - although it wasn't part of a phone at the time and we reckon there's still some way to go before it's ready to hit our handsets, but it certainly gives us food for thought - especially now there are reports that Samsung is mulling three designs, one of which includes a flexible option.
We're also hearing that the Galaxy Note 3 may actually pack a 5.99-inch, Full HD display - although this news has come from unknown "inside sources".
Could this be Samsung replacing the Note range, or adding more feathers to its super-sized cap?
With JK Shin "confirming" the existence of the Galaxy Note 3, the Samsung exec is also reported revealing the 5.9-inch OLED display the super sized handset will pack.
The operating system conundrum
We can be pretty sure that the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 will roll up running Google's Android platform, but which particular version that will be is not so black and white.Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie is expected to be announced at Google's IO event in May, potentially alongside the Nexus 5 - which would put the Note 3 in the running to also launch with the latest version of the software.
However if history has taught us anything it's that assuming is for fools - as we've seen numerous handsets launched with older versions of Android - but the Note 2 was one of the first handsets from Samsung to launch with Jelly Bean, so perhaps a Key Lime Pie device isn't so unlikely.
The latest reports now point towards the Note 3 running Android 4.3 - an updated version of Jelly Bean which may arrive at Google IO ahead of a delayed Key Lime Pie.
Specs
The big screen won't be the only feature Samsung will want to shout about though, as you can expect the Galaxy Note 3 to be packing some serious tech under the hood.
Check out Samsung's Your Mobile Life to discover loads more about the infinite possibilities of the GALAXY Note II
It
could be another industry leading handset (the Note 2 was the most
powerful smartphone when it launched) with reports suggesting it will
follow in the footsteps of the Galaxy S4 with a ridiculous octo-core chip.As this device will fall into Samsung's "Note" family you can expect the fabled S-Pen to make another appearance here as it looks to rub shoulders with the Galaxy Note 8.0 and Galaxy Note 10.1.
According to Android Geeks a software engineer has spilled the beans on the S Orb camera feature which is apparently destined to debut on the Galaxy Note 3, after reports earlier this year suggested it would arrive on the Galaxy S4.
The usually reliable SamMobile has also had its say on the Note 3, with its own "inside sources" claiming the handset will be the most powerful in the world with a octa-core processor, eight-core GPU, 3GB of RAM, 5.99-inch Full HD display and a 13MP rear camera.
Update: There's been further leaks surrounding that 13MP camera, with news claiming the snapper will sport optical image stabilisation tech, which will apparently give traditional cameras a run for their money.
Plastic or metal?
Many were hoping the Samsung Galaxy S4 would see the Korean firm change its way when it came to chassis construction - ditching the plastic for a fancier metallic finish, but alas this wasn't the case.The whole plastic vs metal debate isn't over though and now rumours are suggesting the Galaxy Note 3 could well sport a hard alloy case.
SamMobile sources reckon the HTC One has "worried" Samsung, leading the manufacturer to consider a new material for the Note 3.
We've also seen an image slip out online claiming to show the metallic body of the Galaxy Note 3 and a completely new design language for Samsung - although we're not overly convinced by this.
Those hoping Samsung will pull out some premium materials for the Galaxy Note 3 may have their dreams dashed as inside sources claim the handset will follow in the footsteps of the Galaxy S4 and Galaxy S3 in terms of design.
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Vine for Android live on Google Play today
Vine for Android has finally gone live on Google Play. Twitter's 6-second clip sharing service has already snared 13 million iOS users since its launch on the App Store in January, and is now available on any device running Android 4.0 and above.
We say any device... the app can so-say be downloaded from this page on Google Play, though technical demons and/or an embarrassing foul-up means the link wasn't working for about an hour after the official Vine blog announced the availability - perhaps ze bosses at Twitter 'av been drinking too much Vine?
The app page is at least accessible now, but some users are finding they can't yet install it - see how you get on.
The service allows you to record and share 6-second video clips but after an initial flurry of popularity, it doesn't seem to be doing too well in terms of activity.
Are you a fan of Vine? Let us know and share your favourite Vines in the comments below...
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Blip: Fitbit Flex goes on sale in UK
For those of you that welcome the collision between fitness and tech we're glad to give you some good news: the Fitbit Flex going on sale online and in John Lewis stores.
The calorie-checking, sleep-pattern dissecting activity monitor vibrates when you have achieved a goal - and allows you to check yourself out online, or, via the magic of Bluetooth, on your compatible phone.
It's available in black or 'slate' (dark grey) for £79.99, or you can pay out another £22.99 for teal, navy or tangerine. We're assuming the last one is going to be snapped up by Blackpool fans - the only other people on the planet to use tangerine as a colour description.
More Blips!
Our latest blips will burn off your calories just be being read*! Click here for more mega blip uploads!- Grumpy Cat gets movie deal, doesn't care
- Sky Go brings sports highlights, Android users stalled in pits
- Blue HTC One could brighten up your day
- *Only in conjunction with exercise and a healthy diet
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Samsung accidently announces Galaxy Note III in Kazakhstan
Samsung's official Kazakh website has accidentally confirmed the existence of the highly anticipated Samsung Galaxy Note III.
On a page about a special VIP service, Samsung also confirmed other unannounced products including the Galaxy S4 Zoom and the Galaxy Tab 3 10.1, as well as the Note II
This is not the first piece of information to escape from Samsung: TechRadar previously reported that the Note III is expected to include a 13mp camera with an "anti-shake" feature.
The Note III will also reportedly include a 2.3GHz Snapdragon 800 processor from Qualcomm, LTE, 802.11ac W-Fi and a 5.99-inch 1080p display running Android 4.2.2/4.3.
Open door policy
Samsung has a history of leaks. In May, the much rumoured Galaxy S4 Mini appeared on the UK Samsung apps page, but it was quickly removed.The Galaxy Note III is expected to be launched at IFA 2013 in Berlin this September. The Galaxy S4 Mini, Zoom and Tab 3 are expected to be launched at a special event in London on the June 20 - check back with TechRadar for more information.
Via Techtastic
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Asus MemoPads take aim at iPad and Nexus 7
Asus has announced new 7 and 10-inch Android Jelly Bean tablets - with the cap-tastically named MeMo Pad HD 7 and MeMo Pad FHD 10 tablets setting their sights on the low-cost end of the market.
The MeMo Pad HD7 is priced at US$129/US$149 (about £85/AU$133) for the 8GB and 16GB versions respectively, pitching it squarely against the likes of Google's Nexus 7 and Amazon's Kindle Fire HD.
So what does the 7-inch MeMo Pad HD7 have in its locker? Aside from a name that takes far too long to type, it does offer some interesting looking specs, including an SD card slot.
They include a 1280x800 IPS display, SonicMaster Audio, 1.2MP front facing camera and an optional 5MP rear camera (add some money to the price for that option) as well as a quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM.
It's 10.8 mm thick, weighs 302g and boasts a 10 hour battery life. You can buy it in familiar black and white or the funkier pink or green versions.
MeMo Pad FHD 10
The latest Asus tab boasts an Intel Atom Z2560 processor, stereo speakers and is less than a centimetre thick and weighs in at 580g.
There's an SD slot in this tablet as well, if you need more than the 16GB or 32GB capacity and is available in, wait for it: Royal Blue, Silk White and, erm, Vivid Pink.
We'll eagerly await the reviews of the tablets to see just how good they are - maybe they will have a shot at a place in out best tablets list. Maybe.
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Blip: Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom saunters through States after Middle-East leak
The arrival of the much rumoured Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom is becoming more and more likely as details on the handset begin to leak around the world.
Earlier today we saw Samsung Kazakhstan apparently reveal details of the S4 Zoom alongside the Galaxy Note 3 and Galaxy Tab 3 10.1 on its site - and this has now be followed by information obtained from the FCC in America.
Although the leak doesn't give away a great deal, it looks like the Galaxy S4 Zoom is set to sport a 125.3 x 63.3mm frame with NFC, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 all inside - although 4G compatibility remains a mystery.
More blips!
Ahead of Samsung's June 20 event in London, why not focus your attention of some more blips.
- Judge orders police to hand back Kim Dotcom's assets
- Apple celebrates 100m iPod touch sales, unlikely to ever see 200m
- Grumpy Cat lands movie deal, doesn't care
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Computex: Asus Transformer Pad Infinity brings Tegra 4 upgrade, eyes Q3 release
Among Asus's slew of products today came the "new" Transformer Pad Infinity, which has been updated with some pretty huge improvements.
Its 10.1-inch screen is now loaded with a 2560 x 1600 resolution (up from 1920 x 1200), which is higher than the iPad's current Retina display. Plus its 10-point multi-touch makes for more responsive control.
That gives the new Transformer Pad Infinity screen a 299ppi density - which comfortably beats the iPad 4 and its 264ppi display.
It's also now boasting a 1.9GHz quad-core Tegra 4 processor, 2GB of RAM, 4K output via HDMI, as well as USB 3.0 and Bluetooth 3.0 to boot. Phew.
The transformer's transformation
As for your storage options, you've got 32GB of internal and an SD slot in the dock, which itself has an extra battery for giving the tablet a boost when needed.We're not exactly fans of using a tablet as a camera, but if you like annoying others by holding up a large slab to take a sub-standard image then the new Pad Infinity has you covered with a 5MP rear camera and 1.2MP front snapper.
In terms of a release date, a representative told TechRadar to expect this to appear in Q3 this year, but nothing is set on price just yet although rumours suggest it may arrive for around $399 (around £260, AU$415), or $499 (around £330, AU$515) with the QWERTY keyboard dock.
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New Asus 4K computer monitor to debut in June
Asus has announced a new 4K computer monitor that will launch in the US this month. Called the PQ321, the new monitor measures 31.5 inches and host an impressive 3840 x 2160 resolution.
Asus is yet to announce a release date for the UK and Australia.
Aside from being one of the few 4K monitors available at the moment, it also boasts a 10-bit RGB "deep colour" technology, LED back-lighting, dual-HDMI ports and a 176-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angle.
At 35mm, it is also the thinnest 4K Ultra HD monitor on the market today.
Maxing out the credit card
Although there's no word on price, the PQ321 is unlikely to be kind to your budget. Recent 4K TV announcements have included prices in the £4,000-£5,000 (about AU$6,330-AU$7,920, US$6,100-US$7,630) range.Asus is also expected to showcase another 39-inch, 4K Ultra HD monitor at the Computex 2013 trade show in Taipei this year.
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