Home Blog Page 610

Nokia Lumia 1020 Launched: 41 Megapixel Camera Smartphone at P35,650

0

Who would’ve think that a 41 Megapixel camera would fit in your pocket? It was only introduced a few months ago and finally, it has arrived in the Philippine shores. If you’re not familiar with the specifications of the phone, the Nokia Lumia 1020 still packs a 4.5″ Puremotion+ Clearblack AMOLED display which can be also found on the Nokia Lumia 925. It still runs on the same Dual-Core Krait processor but the Nokia Lumia 1020 has a bumped up 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB internal storage. Unfortunately, there’s no MicroSD card slot inside. The 41 Megapixel Pureview camera of the Nokia Lumia 1020 is partnered with a Xenon flash so you won’t have a problem when you’re on a dark environment. Click read more to know more about it.


Nokia Lumia 1020 Specifications
  • 4.5″ Puremotion+ AMOLED Clearblack 1280×768 display
  • 1.5 GHz Dual-Core Krait Processor
  • 2 GB RAM
  • 32 GB Internal Storage
  • LTE
  • 41 Megapixel Pureview Camera w/ Xenon Flash
  • 1.2 MP Front Camera
  • Windows Phone 8 Amber   



Compared to the Nokia Lumia 920, the Nokia Lumia 1020 is not glossy, instead they choose matte for the body but just like its Lumia bros, it still boasts the iconic Lumia design. You might have notice the small bump at the back of the phone. The reason? It’s because of the 41 Megapixel camera. A large sensor would require more space. But don’t worry, the Nokia Lumia 1020 is still thinner than the 920 although the big bump at the back was really noticeable.

The Nokia Lumia 1020 is priced at P35,650 but it comes with the camera grip and it will be come in black, white and yellow. It will be available on October 11. I actually like the yellow one. It might be a feminine color but seriously, I REALLY LIKE the YELLOW NOKIA LUMIA 1020. 

 

Mr. Karel Holub, General Manager of Nokia Philippines

My Data Manager

0

The first thing that we check after we wake up from our bed is our smartphones. We always swipe down to see our notifications if we have a new DM on twitter from our crush or new notifications on Facebook. Mobile internet has become a big part of our social lives. But of course you have to register to a mobile data plan. One of the best data plans out there now is PowerSurf, from Globe. Because they give you bulk MB’s! Meaning you get to keep track of your megabytes! Keeping track of megabytes is easy with the My Data Manager app available for iOS and Android users to check and track your mobile data usage.

The data manager app is really useful and can keep track all of the mobile data that you’ve used! It allows you to stay on track and make sure that you know exactly where your megabytes are going.

Most importantly if you’re on Globe PowerSurf, this app allows you to manage your PowerSurf Megabyte usage. With My Data Manager, you can maximize your remaining MB’s on your data plan. It also helps you understand which apps consume the most data, I learned that instagram- although a favorite, is so takaw! If you’re watching videos on YouTube, you’ll see and understand that watching videos can consume more data. If you’re always on Globe’s Powersurf MB plan then you better check out My Data Manager, it’s available for iPhone and Android users :).

It’s also important to note, that PowerSurf comes with a no bill shock guarantee. This means, when you exceed your MB allocation, you will be defaulted to the default surfing rate which is 5 for 15 pesos, and once you hit the 999 cap you automatically get shifted to unli surf at 999 pesos. So no matter how much data you use, you will never be charged more than 999! How great is that?

So what are you waiting for? Text POWERSURF to 8888 or dial *143# for FREE to get your worry-free mobile data experience started!

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and Galaxy Gear Launched

0
P9262372
P9262372

The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and the Samsung Galaxy Gear were finally launched in the Philippines at SM Aura Premier last thursday. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 along with the Samsung Galaxy Gear were just announced last September during IFA 2013 at Berlin. The event at SM Aura Premier was filled with bloggers, media and celebrities but of course, the main reason why we’re there is because of the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and the Samsung Galaxy Gear. Check it out after the break.

Mr. Coco Domingo and Ms. Adriene Rivera showed us the features of the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and the Samsung Galaxy Gear.

Samsung Galaxy Note 3



The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 packs a 5.7″ FHD Super AMOLED display. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 comes in 2 variants but the one that’ll arrive here in the Philippines is the one with the Snapdragon 800 processor. Nonetheless, it is still one of the most powerful device in the market right now. Speaking of power, the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 packs a 2.3 GHz Snapdragon 800 processor paired with a 3 GB of RAM. I know, this device might be more powerful than your 5 year old laptop. heehee!

The most notable thing that you’ll notice on the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is the faux-leather back. A lot of Samsung fans have been complaining why Samsung choose to opt for a plastic back when they can just go for an aluminum or carbon fiber. But Samsung think differently because they choose something that can’t be found on other smartphones, a faux-leather back. But of course, the S-Pen is still there along with its nifty features like Air View which is really great for note taking.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is a wonderful device. Sometimes, I just bring out my Samsung Galaxy Note 3 instead of my Nexus 7. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 is now available in Black and White while the Pink version will be available later this year. The SRP? It’s now available for P36,900. But if you want to get it at Globe, you can pre-register for a plan here: http://www.globe.com.ph/galaxy-note3-register

I won a Samsung Galaxy Note 3. Thank you Samsung Philippines! Watch out for my review!

Samsung Galaxy Gear



The Samsung Galaxy Gear was also introduced last thursday. It is basically a smartwatch that can pair with your Samsung Galaxy device. Unlike other smart watches, the Samsung Galaxy Gear can function as a watch even with out the device. But of course, it would be useless if you’ll just use it without the Samsung Galaxy Note 3.

So what does this thing do? Just like any other smart watches, the Samsung Galaxy Gear can notify you if you have messages, it can answer calls, control your device & even check your appointments without getting your phone from your pocket. The feature that I really like on the Samsung Galaxy Gear is that I can answer a call directly from the watch. Yep, there’s a speakerphone and a mic on the Galaxy Gear. The Samsung Galaxy Gear also packs a 2 Megapixel camera that can take photos and 10 second videos.

Aesthetically, the Samsung Galaxy Gear looks great. It might be thick and heavy but it looks fashionable and it comes in different colors. I think the Samsung Galaxy Gear needs more improvements on the software side but I think this is the best smartwatch that I’ve tried so far.

The Samsung Galaxy Gear is now available for P13,990 in Jet Black, Mocha Gray, Wild Orange, Oatmeal Beige, Rose Gold, and Lime Green.

Cloudfone Thrill 530qx: Quad-Core smartphone with 4500mAh battery!

0

I’ve heard your sentiments guys. I know, it’s really rare to see an Android smartphone that can last more than a day. There’s only one phone that I’ve tried before that was able to last up to more than 2 days and that’s the Cloudfone Thrill 430x. Finally! the successor of that phone has arrive, the Cloudfone Thrill 530qx is here! The Cloudfone Thrill 530qx now packs a larger screen, a quad-core processor and a larger battery at 4500mAh. Correct me if I’m wrong but I think the Cloudfone Thrill 530qx has the largest battery on a phablet. To know more about it, Why don’t you check out the Cloudfone Thrill 530qx after the break?

Cloudfone Thrill 530qx Specifications

  • 1.2 GHz MT6589 Quad-Core processor
  • Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
  • IPS 5.3″ qHD ergonomic glass display
  • 12 MP rear camera with autofocus and LED flash with 5 MP front camera
  • HSPA+
  • 4GB Internal Storage
  • 1GB RAM
  • MicroSD Card slot
  • 4500mAh battery

I’m one of the few lucky guys to get a chance to have a hands-on of the device. I wasn’t able to benchmarked it but I’m gonna share with you my experience and what do I think of the device.

First, the 5.3″ IPS display is still great even at qHD resolution. To give you an idea about its size, the original Samsung Galaxy Note has a 5.3″ display too. But compared to that phablet, this one is much more enticing to use. Why? The curves were really great and it really feels great in my hand. I think the thickness and the form factor of the smartphone really helped in that.

Since the battery is rated at 4500mAh, I already expected that it will be heavy than other smartphones. But I was surprised to see that the Cloudfone Thrill 530qx wasn’t that thick and heavy at all compared to its predecessor. It was really a good looking smartphone that packs a powerful processor. Oh and before I forgot, both sim card slots has 3G! Woohoo! Goodbye switching sim cards for 3G!

The camera app of the Cloudfone Thrill 530qx packs a lot of features too like smile detection, burst shots, HDR, face-beautifying feature, and picture grid. Other intelligent features that are present on the phone are pop-up play, flip-to-mute, and shake-to-answer or intelligent answer.

I was only disappointed with the non removable battery. Yep, you can remove the back cover but you can’t remove the battery. But don’t worry guys, that 4500 mAh battery can give you a battery life of up to 2-3 days on average-heavy use. If you feel that 4500mAh isn’t enough and you need more juices from it, you can just buy a power bank.

The price? Well, it’s just P9,999 and it will be available starting October 1. Interesting.

Cherry Mobile Flare 2.0: Quad-Core Smartphone at P3,999

0
Cherry Mobile Flare 2.0
Cherry Mobile Flare 2.0

Last year, the Cherry Mobile shocked us with the announcement of Cherry Mobile Flare. It’s the first local branded phone with a dual-processor to have a price of P3,999. Last friday Cherry Mobile unveiled the successor of that phone, the Cherry Mobile Flare 2.0. The price is still pegged at P3,999 but this time, it is now running on a much faster Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 Quad-Core processor. Yes folks, this phone is now dubbed as the “Quad-Core ng Bayan”. The phone has been available starting last Saturday (The day after the launch). Why don’t you check out the specifications after the break.

Cherry Mobile Flare 2.0 Specifications
Qualcomm MSM8225Q 1.2 Ghz Quad-Core Processor
4″ WVGA Capacitive display
512 MB RAM
4 GB Internal Storage with MicroSD Card slot
5 MP Rear Camera with Dual LED Flash
VGA Front Cam
FM Radio
Dual Sim
Android 4.1 Jelly Bean

The Cherry Mobile Flare 2.0 has almost the same specifications with its predecessor. You might be disappointed with its 512 MB RAM, but c’mon guys! This is a P4,000 phone. The first thing that I noticed is that the Cherry Mobile Flare 2.0 feels more solid than the original flare. The rear is kinda like the Omega HD. I’m also glad that they switched to a 3-button layout. I’m only disappointed with the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean OS inside because I was expecting at least Android 4.2 inside. Anyway, it’s now available for P3,999 at selected Cherry Mobile Stores ;).

Nokia Lumia 625 Launched: The Vibrantly Awesome Smartphone

0
lumia625 1
lumia625 1

Hi, I’m Nico Guarte! I have here with me one “Vibrantly Awesome” Smartphone from Nokia. Equipped with lightning fast 4G LTE Connectivity, the Nokia Lumia 625 is sure to keep you on your toes. Click “read more” to know more about the phone

The Nokia Lumia 625.

Specifications

  • Huge 4.7-inch IPS LCD Screen (480×800 pixels) protected by Gorilla Glass 2
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon Dual-Core clocked at 1.2 GHz with a GPU of Adreno 305
  • 512MB RAM, 8GB of Storage and Expandable into 64GB with MicroSD
  • 5MP AF Camera with LED Flash and VGA Front Camera
  • Single Micro SIM with 4G LTE Support
  • Running on Windows Phone 8, which an be upgraded to WP8 Amber
  • Removable 2000 mAh Li-Ion Battery
Me Playing Temple Run on Lumia 625.

I really LOVE the form factor of this smartphone, It’s made up of matte plastic. Even though It’s a “Vibrantly Awesome” smartphone (I’ll tell you later why I called this vibrantly awesome), the Nokia Lumia 625 maintains a decent performance – no lag, no holdups, no delays – even though it’s only dual-core.

Oh yeah, It’s “Vibrantly awesome because it’s available in a pile of colors including Orange, Bright Green, Yellow, White and Black. Add color to your life with the new Nokia Lumia 625, for only Php13,200! Available at all Nokia concept stores and authorized Nokia retailers, What the heck are you waiting for? Go and experience this vibrantly awesome smartphone!

This article was contributed by: Nico Guarte with some edits from Jam and Charlie

32-Bit and 64-Bit processors explained

0
3264jam
3264jam
“32-bit? 64-bit? What the heck are those?!”
Ever wonder what does the 64-bit A7 processor of Apple can do? Smartphones are like mini PCs in terms of hardware and software. But the big question for our smartphones still remains, What is a 32-bit or 64-bit processors? Here at JAM Online, let’s review these two architectures and let’s discover how does the 64-bit processor affect our smartphones. Check it all out after the break!

Everyone knows that the latest iPhone 5S will be running on a 64-bit architecture, and everybody was like “Awwwweeessssoommme- but What is this 64-bit processor?”. You came into the right place. but first thing’s first:

WHAT IS THIS 32 and 64-bits THINGY?:

These are called “Architectures”. Architectures is an art of assembling logical elements and turn it into computing device. This is how Software and Hardware relates to each other. This is how processors acts like ARM, MIPS or other types of processor for smartphones.
Now about the Numbers. 32 and 64 are refers to as “bits” (bits means the group of 8 or more bytes.). Example, that “ARM” thingy you see is the name of the Set. And ARMv7 and earlier architectures are 32-bits while ARMv8 and for the future architectures are now 64-bit. And of course You will see this also on a desktop and laptop computers. These “x86” and “x64”, Those are the names of the set. x86 is on 32-bit (e.g. Intel Atom) and x64 are of course, 64-bit (e.g. AMD Athlon64) but there are PC Processors that can carry to 64-bit but can also carry 32-bit, and that set is called “x86-x64″(e.g. Intel i7) and 64-bit architectures are opened up more “lanes” through which data could travel. Think of it like an expressway with three lanes and a speed limit of 50. That road can only handle so many cars passing through at any given time.

OK, HOW DOES AFFECT THESE ON SMARTPHONES?:

Woah-woah-woah-woah! Let me finish, okay? 32 bits can carry up to 4GB of RAM, and it can handle up to only one processor. While 64-bit can carry up to 128GB of RAM and can handle up to 64 PHYSICAL processors. So it turns that the advantage of the 64-bit Smartphone is to get a Better Performance. But Using a 32-bit App on that architecture will NOT WORK like the “x86-x64” sets. The developers will need to REBUILD the app in order to make the Apps work on the 64-bit System.

HOW ABOUT YOU? 32 or 64-bit?

I would Stick to 32-bit for Smartphones. Maybe there will be a future technology that can make a 32-bit systems more faster than a 64-bit processors. The thing i want for a Smartphone is COMPATIBILITY while maintaining a HIGH PERFORMANCE. The advantage of is 64-bit are for heavy video-editing and gaming for desktop and laptop computers. I would suggest to them to make it work like the Intel Atom for smartphones and tablets.

Got Everything? If you don’t, you can re-read what you don’t understand. Okay Guys and Gals, Class Dismiss-er.. I mean, See ya! Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter (@I_Am_NicDroid), Instagram @NicdroidPH, and check out my blogs at NicDroid Gazette (nicdroid.blogspot.com).

This article was contributed by: Nico Guarte with some edits from Jam Ancheta (The scumbag guy behind this blog)

Tech Jargons Explained

0

Did you ever wonder what those techie terms meant whenever I mentioned it on my blogs like AMOLED, LTE, MMS, etc. Do you even understand those 404 jokes that you’ve seen on the internet? If you are not that techy-enough to understand mobile reviews used to describe a smartphone’ features or a technology perhaps, then click read more to understand.

Here are some of the words you’ll encounter whenever you’re checking out some blogs or a manufacturer’s website.

GPRS – A technology for radio transmission of small packs of data. Simply put, it’s an internet signal indicator with “Letter G” on the upper left of your phone’s screen whenever you’re using mobile data. Feature phones usually connect to the internet via 2G signals.

EDGE – Or Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution. Basically, this is faster than GPRS.

3G – It’s the third generation of 3rd generation of mobile telecommunications technology. Almost all smartphones has 3G these days. Unlike EDGE and GPRS, you can have a much faster and more enjoyable browsing experience on 3G.

 HSPA+ – Another mobile technology.  It’s much faster than GPRS, EDGE and 3G. Telcos called this as 4G already but I prefer to use 3.75G instead of 4G. But hey, HSPA+ is already fast and it can already stream videos in YouTube on High Quality. HSPA+ can give speeds up to 12 MBps while 3G can only give you speed up 7.2 MBps.

LTE – Long-term evolution. So if you really want a blazing fast internet then better get a Sim Card that supports LTE and a smartphone that is LTE compatible. Trust me, as long as there’s LTE in your area, I’m pretty sure that your speeds would be faster than your DSL at home.

MB – It’s a unit of information that is equal to 1,024 kilobytes. I know, these numbers are just confusing but did you know that every internet activity requires a certain number of MB? When you register for a mobile data promo, it’s like buying a pizza. For example, I have a 50 MB of data which is our pizza. Every internet activity that we do consumes your mobile. So browsing the web, watching YouTube videos or downloading files are like eating your pizza. Watching YouTube videos is like taking a big bite on pizza. Why? Because watching videos on the web consumes a lot of MB. After you ate all the pizza, you can just buy one again.

Well, there you go. I hope that it helped you understand the terms that I’ve been using on my reviews. These are very crucial terms when it comes to mobile. Since we’re talking mobile here, you might be curious about the data plan promos that you’ve seen from the Telcos. Why don’t you check out the tutorial about Megabytes here: http://surf.globe.com.ph/tutorial/mb101

Now that you’ve been educated on the various tech terms/jargons, it’s time you experience them for yourself with Globe’s PowerSurf 499! Just text POWERSURF to 8888 or dial *143#  for FREE! After all, experience is the best teacher!

MyPhone Vortex: 5.0″ HD Display, Aluminum Frame & Quad-Core processor

0
MyPhone Vortex
MyPhone Vortex

The Myphone Vortex was recently teased by Myphone at their Facebook Page. The MyPhone Vortex is for the people who thinks that the MyPhone Iceberg is too big for their hands. The MyPhone Vortex has a 5.0″ HD Display and it is encase in an aluminum frame. One of the features that I like about the MyPhone Iceberg is the Aluminum body, I’m glad that they included that in the MyPhone Vortex. Of course, the MyPhone Vortex would pack a 1.2 GHz Quad-Core processor, 13 MP BSI Camera and a 16 GB of internal storage. I’m glad that they decided to include a MicroSD card slot on the MyPhone Vortex. Oh and your favorite MyPhone features like TARA and clever motion are still here. Why don’t you check out the full specs after the break

MyPhone Vortex Specifications
MT6589 1.2 GHz  Quad-Core Processor
5.0″ HD Display w/ Gorilla Glass 2
16 GB Storage w/ MicroSD Card slot
1 GB RAM
Multi-video Display
Dual-Sim
Android Jelly Bean
Aluminum Frame

MyPhone Vortex Price
MyPhone Vortex has a SRP of PHP12,388.

Asus Transformer Book T100: The Affordable Windows 8.1 tablet-laptop hybrid

0

Asus revealed a new revolutionary product this week, the Asus Transformer Book T100. This 10.1″ hybrid runs on Windows 8.1 Pro and it brags a very affordable price tag. It is also running on the latest Intel Atom ‘Bay trail’ quad-core processor which is capable of running Torchlight II and Portal. I believe the Intel Atom ‘Bay Trail’ Quad-Core processor is already enough for your basic tasks and some light-gaming needs. Students like me would also love this because it comes pre-installed with Microsoft Office Home & Student 2013. Yep, it’s a full one and not the trial version. The interesting part in here is that the Asus Transformer Book T100 has an affordable price even with the dock on it. (It’s even cheaper than the iPad!!)

Asus Transformer Book T100 Specifications
Tablet-Laptop hybrid
10.1″ 1366 x 768 IPS Display
Intel Atom Bay Trail Z3740 Quad-Core processor
2 GB of RAM
32 GB/64 GB
USB 3.0 slot (Dock)
1.07kg and 10.5mm thin
Windows 8.1
11 hours of battery life

I asked Asus and they told us that the Asus Tranformer Book T100’s dock doesn’t have a battery. But who cares! The tablet has 11 hours of battery life! That’s freakin long already. Since this tablet runs on Windows 8.1, you can run your legacy games apps compared to Windows RT. I’m just not sure which games would work on this tablet.

Asus Transformer Book T100 Price

The Asus Transformer Book T100 starts at $349 (PHP16,000) for the 32 GB and $399 (PHP18,000) for the 64 GB. And yes, it comes with the dock. Holy crap right?! That’s too freakin affordable! To give you a little perspective, the iPad starts at $499 while the Nexus 7 starts at $229. This would be a great device for those people who are looking for a tablet and a laptop with full Windows experience. It’s great for students! The Asus Transformer Book T100 is expected to be launch here in the Philippines on October 2013.

Damn. I still can’t believe the price of the Asus Transformer Book T100.