BlackBerry Storm, Pearl and Bold get smarter with HSBC

If you are a BlackBerry (RIM) User and a HSBC customer then you will be able to take advantage of their snazzy mobile website optimized for the Research in Motions BlackBerry. The site makes it a complete breeze to check your HSBC bank accounts on the go, allowing you to stay one step ahead of the credit crunch.

It really doesn’t matter if you own the BlackBerry Storm, BlackBerry Bold or the BlackBerry Pearl whatever RIM device you have you will be able to log onto the HSBC mobile website at www.m.hsbc.co.uk by using your same login username and password you use to get into your internet banking on your PC.

You can then use your BlackBerry to check your real-time bank balance on all sterling accounts as well as check through your latest transactions for the previous seven days. You can also check your account balance of foreign currency. Not only that, you will also be able to see your balances on commercial or business credit cards and will give you the added benefit of seeing the last seven days worth of transactions.

So there you have it HSBC has got together with Research in Motion to give its customers a quick and on the go way of managing their money through their BlackBerry device.

Source: intomobile

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The RIM BlackBerry Storm gets pictured

The guys over at Intomobile have posted some cool images of the BlackBerry Storm. They managed to get their hands on a Verizon Wireless version of Research In Motion’s latest baby the BlackBerry Storm while at the BlackBerry Developer Conference in California.

The BlackBerry Storm seems to be a tad smaller than the BlackBerry Bold, and the Storm follows the BlackBerry Pearl Flip by incorporating a microSD slot.

As for the operating system, it is still somewhat beta but there are a few more recent versions, and Research In Motion is clearly working hard to iron out the bumps and bugs so that there is something reasonably stable for that much rumoured release in November

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November 4th RIM BlackBerry Bold day for AT&T

Research In Motion and AT&T have announced that the much anticipated BlackBerry Bold 9000 will be available on November the 4th at a price of $299.99 in AT&T retail stores across the United States, and via www.att.com and AT&T’s business-to-business sales teams.

Vega, president and chief executive officer of AT&T Mobility, Ralph de la Vega, says: “The BlackBerry Bold is the complete package, providing customers with an absolutely outstanding mobile experience whether doing e-mail, browsing the Web, viewing streaming video or simply making a phone call. And it is being introduced in the U.S. only from AT&T.”

The Research In Motion BlackBerry Bold 9000 smartphone will be exclusive to AT&T customers within the US, and has the ability to be used in most other countries including more than 60 with 3G networks.

Full Press Release

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BlackBerry Bold 9000 OS 4.6.0.167 released by AT&T

We posted not so long ago about Rogers Canada releasing an upgrade for the BlackBerry Bold 9000, well looks like AT&T have taken a tip from Rogers and have now released the 4.6.0.167 upgrade for Research In Motion’s BlackBerry Bold 9000 on AT&T.

Obviously AT&T wasn’t going to be left trailing Rodgers so have push out the 4.6.0.167 update which can be downloaded from here.

You will need to download the new BlackBerry Operating System and save it to your PC, and make sure your PC is running the latest version of BlackBerry Desktop Manager v4.5. If you find you are having difficulty you can pop over to here for full instructions in just how to install the BlackBerry Bold 4.6.0.167 update.

Source – crackberry

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T-Mobile G1, Apple iPhone and BlackBerry gain AttorneyPages lawyer search

Finding an attorney has never been simpler now that Advice Company has announced the launch of a new mobile phone interface which helps people find a lawyer. The new interface, AttorneyPages technology works on the new Google Android HTC T-Mobile G1 phone, the Apple iPhone and BlackBerry.

Now if an iPhoner, G1-er, or BlackBerry-er is in need of a lawyer’s service all they need to do is point their mobile phone browser towards http://attorneypages.com, key in their zip code and area in which they require an attorney and a list of qualified lawyers will pop up on their screen.

CEO of Advice Company, Steven Lurie, believes the trend of customers using mobile services will continue, particularly with the likes of the Apple iPhone and the new T-Mobile G1.

Source – marketwatch

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BlackBerry just got smarter with Google

As from today you can get Google Gmail for mobile 2.0 for your BlackBerry smartphones or any other handsets that runs on the Java Platform.

In Gmail for mobile 2.0 update Google have updated the client - making the software much quicker, smoother and more reliable for you to use.

Scrolling is now extremely fast and smooth, and there is much less chance of it freezing. You will also find several new features such as, quick keys for those of you using a QWERTY keyboard, so I guess that’s great news for most BlackBerry users, another great improvement is that you can save multiple mobile drafts which will allow you to save you emails and send at a later date, you can now also manage multiple accounts.

If that’s not enough you can now work off line, if you out of signal you can write your email send it to your outbox, once you back in signal it will send for you. The Gmail software update is available to download for free.

Source: phonescoop

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Play X-Factor on your mobile: But no Cheryl Cole

If X-Factor on you TV isn’t enough to keep you happy, then you will be glad to know that you can now get X-Factor 2008 on your mobile, so if you missed the all important audition then you can get your chance on your mobile.

Once you download the X-Factor game you can create your own personalized character and take it through all the stages of the X-Factor contest. If you get through the auditions, you will then get tested by the panel of judges which unfortunately do not look anything like Cheryl Cole, Danni Minogue or Simon Cowell.

You will get tested on your Choreography, you can impress your panel by busting your moves by using the keyboard as your joystick, singing (naturally) you will also be tested on how you deal with stardom whilst greeting your fans and all the paparazzi.

You even get a chance to fashion dash and pick up all the latest styles before you get put into an outfit you wouldn’t be seen dead in. Last but not least you get to bash the hell out of a set of drums, don’t really understand how this fits into the X-Factor series but still something else to do on the game.

So the verdict, it’s not really a game for serious gamers and I would imagine it would attract teenagers rather than adults, but as a bit of fun whilst sitting on a train, why not? The game is available with most major operators such as T-Mobile, Vodafone, Orange and 3.

Source: absolutegadget

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Hands-on Review: The X Factor 2008 Namco Bandai Mobile Game

We want to give you a quick insight about the all new mobile phone game “The X Factor 2008” from the brilliant Namco Bandai. We were sent a Sony Ericsson K800i from Nelson Bostock Communications to test out this new mobile game.

First of all and we have to be honest and did at first ask for The X Factor 2008 game to be sent to our Apple iPhone 3G, but we received an email saying that this was not possible and asked us if we had any other device. Anyway the company did send us the Sony Ericsson K800i which is good.

Now got to admit after playing games on the Apple iPhone 3G which is just amazing we thought how the hell can a game on a normal bog-standard mobile phone compare to the awesome iPhone, the games are far more superior and much more enticing. Well we was wrong, ok to be honest the graphics of this new game (The X Factor 2008 from Namco Bandai) is pretty bland, and we mean really bland but the gameplay is addictive. God damn this game, so annoying, so addictive.

I looked at the game and thought “You have got to be serious, there is no way on earth I will play this game”, well Namco Bandai we need to meet so I can shake the hands of the creators, when getting this game we recommend you look beyond the graphics. We are still playing it now, this is such an awesome game and we love it.

Check out the info below of how to purchase the game, how to play the game, and of course the full press release as well.

HOW TO BUY:
TO DOWNLOAD IT TO YOUR MOBILE TEXT “FAME” to 80100

The official X Factor mobile phone game
COMPETE JUST AS IN THE REAL X FACTOR TV SHOW TO EARN THE JUDGES’ RESPECT AND WIN THE PUBLIC’S VOTES TO BECOME A STAR! Available on 3, Vodafone, Orange, O2 and T-Mobile. No subscription necessary. Standard SMS rates apply. You will be able to confirm the purchase after receiving a text message. After sending your SMS you will receive a confirmation message which directs you to your automatically detected operator site to download the game.

Game prices are between £5 and £5.99 depending on your operator. A download charge may apply depending on your contract type.

HOW TO PLAY:

Basic Controls
Directional button - Move cursor, change selected options in menus, Character Creation and navigate Progress screen and Training area.

Use the numeric keypad 1-9 to play the 5 different mini-games in training, rehearsal and the main performance, match the numbers to those onscreen.

Softkeys are context sensitive, allowing you to choose confirm or back out of options and screens, or access a pause menu, depending on where you are in the game.
Character Creation

Choose a gender.

After this press the 0 key at any point to randomly generate a character.

Please select a body by pressing left and right. You can change skin tones by pressing up and down. Once you have made your selection, please press ok.

Please select some eyes by pressing left and right and then press ok.

Select a nose by pressing left and right and press ok.

Please select a mouth by pressing left and right and press ok.

Please select a hair style by pressing left and right. You can change the hair colour by pressing up and down. Press ok to confirm your desired hair style.

Please enter the name of your contestant between 2 and 7 letters long. Press the # key to delete a letter.

Once you have customised your appearance, decide what starting skills your character will specialise in. You have three points to distribute between the 5 skills; you can only assign one point per skill. Depending on your skills some songs will be easier or harder than others to perform. During the game, you will train with your mentor to increase the skills and aid your progress through the game.
Games

Each of the 5 games relates directly to your characters 5 skills.

Rhythm: To score a HIT! Push the corresponding number when the ring around it has shrunk in size and is nearly touching the edge of the number. Watch the numbers flash to the beat, to get into the hit rhythm.

Emotion: To score a HIT! Push the corresponding number when it falls into one of the 3 activation rings, watch the numbers flash to the beat to help get into the hit rhythm.

Breathing: To score a HIT! Push the corresponding number when it is inside the activation ring, watch the numbers flash to the beat to help get into the hit rhythm.

Power: To score a HIT! Push the corresponding number before it drops off the screen. You must press the number only when it flashes to the beat, otherwise you will MISS!

Range: To score a HIT! Push the corresponding numbers only when they flash to the beat! You must work your way through the range going from the lowest numbers to the highest.
Training (Boot Camp and Judges Home)

During the training sessions, you have the opportunity to work on two of your skills relating to the song you’re going to perform in the live show. Your mentor will tell you what song you’re going to perform, and the skills that are important to the song.

Your Mentor will assign one of the skills to train in Mentor Training (click on your mentor), the other you can pick yourself in your Personal Training area (navigate left or right depending on your current location to find this)

As you progress through the game, you will unlock more skills that you can train, giving you the freedom to train and improve in whichever area you feel is best.

Once you’ve completed your training, you can go to straight to the live performance if you’re feeling confident, or you can rehearse in the training room. Rehearsal gives you a chance to practice the full song without the pressure of a live studio audience! Feel free to practice as much as you need until you are ready.

If you’ve failed your training for this round, you might want to retry, you can do this by going to the door and selecting Retry instead of Go to Show.
Live Performance

The pressure is on! During the live performance, you need to score as many hits as you can to accumulate the most votes and see off the fierce competition. Your skill will dictate whether you go through the next round.

If you consistently perform well, the studio manager will activate more effects, making your song that bit more special, boosting public opinion and your popularity score.

You can watch the X Factor bar at the top of the screen as you play – this fills up as you score hits and decreases if you miss. Fill the bar to activate all the studio effects, and rack up a huge score!

The competition is not just about making it through the final – you need to convince the viewing public that you have the X Factor by performing well and giving them a great show every time you step onto the stage. Your popularity score accumulates throughout the rounds, so it’s not enough to save your talents for the final show.

You may win the recording contract, but will your single chart at number 1? The public will decide based on the entertainment you’ve provided!

So listen to your mentor, be diligent with your personal training, rehearse until you’re perfect and then wow the public as the hottest new talent of the year!

The Full Press Release:

Wannabe pop stars have a new audience to impress

London, UK – Didn’t make the grade at the recent The X Factor auditions? Well now there’s a chance to get through to the next round and hit the big time thanks to the launch of ‘The X Factor 2008 - The Mobile Game’, from leading global publisher of mobile games Namco Bandai.

Based on the award-winning entertainment show, ‘The X Factor 2008 - The Mobile Game’ gives mobile phone users the chance to test out their own star credentials on the move.

Following the arrival of the latest The X Factor television series on ITV1, the game allows aspiring performers to create and guide their personalised character through each stage of the show as they build a career towards stardom.

Once through the auditions, players will be tested with challenges to sound good, look great and build strong relationships. Players will be able to perform in various mini-games and choose how to use their free time to reach their ultimate dream of musical fame. As part of the long-road to stardom, players will be faced with challenges such as:

• Choreography –Test your coordination to pull off the right moves in the dance studio
• Singing – Show off those vocal chords to the judges by hitting the right notes at the right time
• Fan Meeting – Ever important, woo your fans and pose for the paparazzi, just don’t get grabbed by any over-zealous fans!
• Fashion Dash – Pick up the latest styles before your opponents to avoid being decked out in the wrong outfits
• Groove – Bang the drums and prove you’ve got rhythm to the industry

As players fight to launch a single and get to number one in the charts, the story is conveyed through magazine articles, text messages from relatives, friends and the media, and fan page comments made by the competition and fans.

With millions of viewers already hooked on finding out if their favourite stars have that extra special something to make it all the way, ‘The X Factor 2008 - The Mobile Game’ gives everyone the chance to try their own hand at making it to the big time when and wherever they are.

Available immediately across all major UK operators, including 3, Vodafone, Orange and T-Mobile, or by texting ‘fame’ to 80100, the new game gives players the chance to show off their own The X Factor credentials without having to step onto a stage.

More information about Namco Bandai Networks Europe, its products and services can be found online at www.namcomobile.com. For more information about The X Factor visit: http://xfactor.itv.com/

More information about The X Factor 2008 Namco Bandai Mobile Game - Visit Here

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T-Mobile G1 Vs iPhone 3G, BlackBerry Bold, Storm and HTC Diamond

The age of the 3G smartphone is truly upon us, more and more are becoming available and the options are very diverse, and now we have the new T-Mobile G1 added to the arsenal of “superphones”

Not so long ago we saw the birth of the beginning of the superphone age with the launch of the Apple iPhone 3G, now the Google Android T-Mobile G1 joins the ranks, and soon Research In Motion’s offering the BlackBerry Storm will to be joining us.

All these “superphones” seem to be in a constant battle for who is the best, which touch-screen smartphone can grab that top place. But which one would you choose? The Apple iPhone 3G, the T-Mobile G1, the BlackBerry Bold or Storm, or maybe the HTC Touch Diamond? So many to choose from, but if you need a little help in your decision then hit up the source for a blow by blow comparison.

Source – pcmag

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Voting info on your phone

Interest in the upcoming U.S. elections is at an all-time high, so it's important for people to know how to register to vote. We've updated m.google.com/elections with information for each state about voter registration, early voting, and state voter hotlines. On phones with full web browsers, like the iPhone, you can also get all state online resources including complete online registration forms. (Not on a mobile device now? Send this URL to your phone.)

Voter registration deadlines are right around the corner (the earliest are Alaska, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Washington, which require mailed-in registrations to be postmarked by October 4) so be sure to check your state's rules in time.

Check out the Official Google Blog to learn about Google's other efforts to get out the vote.

Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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Google on Android: Search

On September 23, T-Mobile announced the world's first Android-powered phone, the G1. The phone comes preloaded with Search, Maps, Gmail with Contacts, Calendar, Google Talk, and YouTube. The applications are easy to use, fully synchronized with the web, and work together in new and innovative ways, as explained in our first post in the blogseries: 'Google on Android'. Over the next couple of weeks, we will put the spotlight on each one of the Google applications for Android. Today: Search. -- Marc Vanlerberghe, Product Marketing Director.

Google's mission is "to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful." Android-powered phones are designed to support the second part of that mission -- universally accessible and useful -- by making Search an integrated, easy-to-use, and platform-wide feature.

We've integrated Search with applications in a variety of ways, in order to make it universally accessible. Every searchable application includes a Search menu option. Some applications (like Maps) support type-to-search. Just start typing, and Maps will automatically open the Search UI for you! Some applications (like Android Market) have Search buttons, while others have Search widgets (like the home screen). Finally, on the T-Mobile G1, there's even a dedicated Search key on bottom row of the keyboard. Just press it and start typing your query.

We've made Search easier to use by providing suggestions. As you type, the list of suggestions refines itself, and you'll immediately jump to that search with a simple touch. There are two types of suggestions on the T-Mobile G1. Google web searches use Google Suggest technology to offer relevant, up-to-date suggestions. Other applications, like YouTube or Gmail, suggest queries you've previously made so that it's easier to find and share results that you've found before. I've even used recent query suggestions to start a search without any typing at all.

Also, we've integrated search across the platform so that applications can even share search capabilities with each other. For example, as Marc noted in his blog post, the music player can use other apps, like the browser or YouTube, to search for artist info, more music, or even music videos.

Finally, we've made it easy for third party developers to incorporate search into their applications, too. We've provided an easy-to-use API, documentation, sample code, and everything else a developer needs to implement basic searchability -- with recent query suggestions -- in their apps. What's more exciting to me is that developers can improve upon search as well. Maybe someone will find and provide new sources of searchable knowledge, or serve "mind reading" suggestions, or display search results in a more informative and beautiful way? I can't wait to see what developers come up with!

To see Google search on Android in action, check out this video:



Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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Google on Android: Maps

On September 23, T-Mobile announced the world's first Android-powered phone, the G1. The phone comes preloaded with Search, Maps, Gmail with Contacts, Calendar, Google Talk, and YouTube. The applications are easy to use, fully synchronized with the web, and work together in new and innovative ways, as explained in our first post in the blog series: 'Google on Android'. Over the next couple of weeks, we will put the spotlight on each one of the Google applications for Android. Today: Maps. -- Marc Vanlerberghe, Product Marketing Director.

When we designed Google Maps for the T-Mobile G1, we set out to create a great mapping application that took full advantage of the G1's hardware, like the touch screen, accelerometer, and GPS, as well as the deep system integration made possible by the Android platform.

One of my favorite things to do with Google Maps on Android is to explore new and favorite places. You can pan around and zoom in and out easily using just your thumb on the touchscreen -- a big plus for all those times when that other hand is unavailable. And if I want to see a restaurant or building up close, I can switch to Street View and view a panorama from street level. I can even turn on Compass mode to let me look around the panorama by moving my phone up, down, and to the side. It's like popping up a virtual periscope anywhere you want to check out what's there with your own eyes. Check out the video below for a quick demo. Note that Street View on Android is only available in the US at this time.

When I'm in a new city or just a new part of town, I like to turn on My Location. It can use GPS or just the nearest cell tower to tell me where I am and re-center my position in the middle of my screen when I approach the edge. When I'm walking or in a taxi in a dense city, like New York, I zoom in to street level and turn on GPS for the highest accuracy.

And as I wander the city, I can search for nearby businesses (like restaurants), and use Android's integrated Map features to save search results to my contacts. For instance, if I find a restaurant that I like, I can save it to my contacts and then later on call it or Map it with one touch. In the future, when I do another search with Maps, I might even see this contact again as a suggested search result along side past queries.

Maps is also integrated with email, IM, and the web on Android. For instance, street addresses that appear as plain text in these apps become touchable zones that you can click on to take you straight to Maps. Something similar happens when a Google Maps link is pasted into an email, IM or placed on a web page. When I touch it, I can choose whether to view the map in the browser, in Google Maps, or in any other application that's built to handle what's known to Android developers as an "intent." Or, I can make the choice once and save it as my default map-viewing application (Google Maps, in my case).

Perhaps best of all is that most of the resources, flexibility, and functionality in Google Maps are available to any application written for Android. Cab4me and Locale are both Android Developer Challenge winners that used the Android platform to build compelling applications with maps and location at their core. Any developer can use Android's MapView and location APIs to build location-aware mobile applications like these. While the team is proud of Google Maps on Android and other cool applications we've seen to date, we're equally excited to see what new kinds of maps and location-enabled applications developers create in the coming months.



Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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Google on Android: YouTube

On September 23, T-Mobile announced the world's first Android-powered phone, the G1. The phone comes preloaded with Search, Maps, Gmail with Contacts, Calendar, Google Talk, and YouTube. The applications are easy to use, fully synchronized with the web, and work together in new and innovative ways, as explained in our first post in the blog series: 'Google on Android'. Over the next couple of weeks, we will put the spotlight on each one of the Google applications for Android. Today: YouTube. -- Marc Vanlerberghe, Product Marketing Director.

Whether it's the infectious laughter of "Dad at the Comedy Barn" or Randy Pausch's uplifting "Last Lecture," YouTube on Android can bring news and entertainment to you in an immediate, personalized way. Let me tell you about my favorite YouTube features and how I use them.

I walk into the local coffee shop to get a dose of caffeine -- double espresso is my drink of choice. The Formula 1 race in Singapore was two weekends ago, the first night race F1 has ever held. I wonder if there are some highlights on YouTube. I slide open the keyboard and type "Formula 1 Singapore" and sure enough, there's a video with some footage from the first practice session. The cars look fantastic under the lights. I wonder if my friend Ken has seen this video. I click on the "Menu" button, select "Share," and up pops the email application - I know Ken will appreciate the video as much as I do.

When the video is done playing, a bunch of related videos pop up.

This is great because I can simply choose from any of them to see more F1 racing footage. This feature makes it easier to find more videos that interest me.

While I am busy watching the F1 video, my wife emails me a link to a YouTube video of the San Jose Taiko company. She's a big fan of taiko drumming and is asking if I want to go with her to the concert on Sunday. I tap the link in the email message and watch the video. Wow, I can't wait to see the concert. I hit the back button to take me back to the email conversation and reply to my wife, "Yes -- let's go!"

In addition to the tight integration with Gmail and other applications that are already on the device, I find it really cool that YouTube on Android exposes its search functionality to other Android apps through the open application framework, giving applications like the built-in music player the power to quickly find relevant videos. All I have to do is long-press on the artist, song name, or album to do a search on YouTube for a related video. I'm really looking forward to seeing how developers will integrate YouTube features into their own applications.


Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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Google on Android: Gmail and Contacts

On September 23, T-Mobile announced the world's first Android-powered phone, the G1. The phone comes preloaded with Search, Maps, Gmail with Contacts, Calendar, Google Talk, and YouTube. The applications are easy to use, fully synchronized with the web, and work together in new and innovative ways, as explained in our first post in the blog series: 'Google on Android'. Over the next couple of weeks, we will put the spotlight on each one of the Google applications for Android. Today: Gmail and Contacts. -- Marc Vanlerberghe, Product Marketing Director.

As an engineer on mobile, part of my job includes testing multiple phones. Having to add and update contacts whenever I get a new phone is one of my least favorite things to do. Switching phones is such a hassle in no small part because manually adding my friends' contact information takes so much time.

In the early days of developing Gmail and Contacts for Android, the team set a clear goal to make this problem disappear once and for all. We envisioned a world where your various computers and phones would always be in sync without needing discipline, USB cables, Bluetooth, and synchronization software.

It occurred to us that the best way to synchronize these various pieces of information is to let the device do it on its own while you're not looking, so you never have to think about it. Once you've logged into your Google account on an Android-powered phone it automatically synchronizes all your contacts and Gmail information so everything is always available, regardless of where you are and whether you have cell coverage. Since all your contacts and mail are backed up to the network, they will still be available if you get a new phone or just have multiple phones.



You will also find that Gmail on Android preserves all the nice functionality that you are used to on your desktop, such as starring, archiving, assigning and reading labels, and the conversation view that makes reading email on Gmail so pleasant. You can also configure which labels you want to synchronize to your phone and how much data you want there. More than ever, you are in control of the data that you want to find on your phone. Gmail even syncs your drafts so you can begin a message on the phone and send it from the web, or vice versa. With push email, Gmail offers real-time, two-way synchronization of your email, notifying you of new e-mails even when you're using another application.



Of course, your contacts list in Gmail also syncs to the phone, and any changes you make on the phone sync to your contacts list on the web.

Because this synchronization works in both directions, you can add a contact on the web and almost immediately use it to call the person from your phone. Once you get used to automatic synchronization, you'll wonder how you could ever live without it. We certainly became addicted to it, and we hope you will too!

To learn more about Gmail on the world's first Android-powered phone, visit the Gmail blog
Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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My Location now with Wi-Fi

One of our goals here on the location team is to keep shrinking that magical blue circle that shows you where you are. In fact, just a few weeks ago, we released new optimizations for My Location that helped us calculate location even more accurately.

Today, we're taking another step toward that goal, with the release of My Location with Wi-Fi, which will provide even greater accuracy when you use a device with Wi-Fi. The premise is similar to what we do with cell tower information: information transmitted by nearby Wi-Fi access points is used to pinpoint your location. Since the range of a Wi-Fi access point is smaller than that of a cell phone tower, this often results in a much more accurate position.

Wi-Fi-based location is available in many major cities around the world, but coverage and accuracy will vary. We expect it to improve over time as more people use it.

So how can you start enjoying this Wi-Fi goodness? If you have a Wi-Fi enabled BlackBerry, please download the latest version of Google Maps for mobile. Maps for other mobile platforms, including Android, will get Wi-Fi location soon.

Wi-Fi-based location is also now available through the Gears Geolocation API, bringing more-accurate location information to the browser on your phone or laptop, including Search with My Location.

Enjoy the smaller circles!
Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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Voting tools for volunteers on the go

With the U.S. elections less than a week away, voting drives are ramping up. Political parties and non-partisan groups alike are sending out volunteers to encourage citizens to vote on November 4. To make sure these volunteers have the same voter info tools available to them on their phone as on their computer, we've now launched a mobile voting locator tool on m.google.com/elections. (Click here to send this to your phone.)

Now, volunteers can type in the home address of any registered voter and find his or her voting location, whether they're in an office making phone calls, are working from a booth set up outdoors, or are going door to door. While on the go, they use Google Maps for mobile to find their next address or display directions to voting locations.

Of course, between talking to potential voters, volunteers can check out the Elections section in Google News for mobile for the latest updates (go here on your phone), or just search for a nearby coffee shop to stay warm.
Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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Google Earth now available for the iPhone

(cross posted with the Google LatLong Blog)

The world just got a little bit smaller. Google Earth is now available for the iPhone and iPod touch, allowing you to fly to the far reaches of the world from the palm of your hand. Since we launched Google Earth for the desktop in 2005, we've had over 400 million unique downloads, and people from around the world have used it to view their house, research travel destinations, learn how to make the world a better place, find local businesses, and view geo-located photos. Now, with a free download from the iTunes App Store, you can fly through the same 3D immersive world of Google Earth you've come to love, without having to fire up your desktop computer.


Check out this video tour to see Google Earth for the iPhone in action:



Not only is having Google Earth on your iPhone convenient, but the touch interface is a very natural way to interact with the Earth. Just swipe your finger across the screen and you fly to the other side of the globe; tilt your phone and your view tilts as well. You can pinch to zoom in or out, or just double tap with one finger to zoom in and two fingers to zoom out. We also integrated the My Location feature, so with a touch of a button, you can fly to where you are in the real world on your phone. In addition, we have over eight million Panoramio photos, which are geo-located photos of places, and you can view any and all of them from your iPhone. Besides being beautiful, high-quality pictures, they're specifically of places, so you don't have to see some guy's family on vacation in Thailand--you can see the beaches, the temples, all the things that give you a real sense of the place. Here is a nice shot of the Grand Palace that I found on my virtual tour of Bangkok.


All versions of Earth include search, and the iPhone version is no exception. You have access to the same great local search that you get with Google Maps, so you can search for places, businesses, and landmarks. With Google Earth you get to the full detail page for businesses, so you can get reviews, photos, user content, business hours, and other useful information. We also added a "search near me" feature, so with one touch you can find businesses near your location, without having to navigate there first or type in the name of the city. Looking for a good cafe when you're in Trento, Italy? It's a snap:


To get Google Earth on your iPhone, visit the App Store in iTunes or your iPhone, and search for "Google Earth."

Source – Official Google Mobile Blog

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Android Apps: Where to go to get G1 Applications

Ok, the Google Android T-Mobile G1 is out, you’ve got hold of the latest mobile technology to hit the streets, and you’ve played around with the all new experience of the Google Android. So now maybe you’d like to grab hold of a few Android applications to try out.

The Google Android Apps market went live with the G1 so you’ll probably try there first, but it isn’t the only place to get hold of Android applications. Places like MobiHand and Handango also have app stores.

With the new Android, for apps you need to shop around. The Android is compared to the iPhone, when really the Android should be compared to Windows Mobile, and this has given rise to a few sites that offer Android apps.

So don’t just stick with the Google Android app store, take a look at Handango Android app site and MobiHand’s OnlyAndroid.com as choices are as wide ranging as prices.

Source – nytimes

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Video: Gmail 2.0 mobile available from Google

Google has introduced their Gmail for mobile version 2.0 which is for J2ME mobile phones and also for BlackBerry smartphones, The Gmail 2.0 is now faster and more reliable and has been revamped to push all the processing to the background.

So what does this actually mean for the user of mobile Gmail? Well let’s take a look at just how the Gmail 2.0 has improved.

Overall performance has been improved so smoother scrolling and no freezing, both Gmail and Google Apps email accounts that you can switch to easily, if you use a QWERTY handset you can now assign shortcut keys, you now get the ability to save multiple email drafts, and there is basic off-line support so you can compose an email and read even if there is no signal.
Source – googlemobile

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Android is now Open Source

Over the past year, we announced Android, released several SDKs (eventually resulting in the 1.0 SDK), gave out the first half of the $10,000,000 prize money for the Android Developer Challenge, and prepared the first Android-powered device for users. Tomorrow, the T-Mobile G1 goes on sale.

But today, we're making what might just be the most exciting announcement of all: we and our Open Handset Alliance partners have now released the source code for Android. There's a huge amount of code and content there, so head over to http://source.android.com/ for all the details.

I'd like to offer a huge thank you and congratulations to my colleagues and the Alliance partners for what I hope will be a red-letter day for the open source community, and openness in the mobile industry.

Source – Android Developers Blog

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New Android Maps API Terms of Service and Key Enforcement

When we released the 0.9_r1 beta SDK, we mentioned that the Maps API included with Android would soon require an API key to function correctly and load map tiles. Part of the reason for this was that the Terms of Service (ToS) for the Maps API had not been finalized.

Today, I'm pleased to be able to tell you that the new Android Maps API ToS are now finalized and they're actually pretty exciting. Most of the restrictions present in the old ToS are now gone—for instance, it's now permissible to use the Android Maps API to build "friend finder" style applications. There are still a few limitations, but not nearly as many as before.

Now that the ToS are finalized, it's time to take the next step. Until now, developers have been able to use any value for their Maps API key—that is, the Maps API keys weren't enforced. However, starting early tomorrow morning (Oct 22nd, PDT), we are turning on Maps key enforcement, so the grace period is ending very soon. This means it's also time for developers to acquire and begin using real API keys. Here's what you'll need to do:

1. Visit http://code.google.com/android/maps-api-signup.html, fill out the required information, agree to the Terms of Service, and submit.
2. Take the key you are given in response, and place it either:
• In the XML layout where you declare your MapView, or
• In your source code, where you instantiate your MapView object

The way the keys work is that when you use a MapView, it queries the system to find the public fingerprint ID of the certificate used to sign the currently-running application. The MapView then works with the server to verify that the certificate which signed the current application is the same certificate to which the current Maps API key belongs. If they match, then tiles are displayed; if they do not match, then no map tiles are displayed.

You will need one Maps API key for each certificate you use to sign your applications. That is, you'll need separate Maps API keys for both your debug-time signing certificate used in the emulator, and for your release-time certificate you'll use when publishing your apps. Fortunately this is free, and there is no limit to the number of keys you can acquire. Finally, note that this only applies if you're using a MapView in your Android application. If you don't use Maps at all, or if you use an Intentto launch Google Maps, you don't need to follow these steps.

Be sure to get your Maps API key now to avoid a disruption.

Source – Android Developers Blog

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BlackBerry Bold, Storm, Apple iPhone, which would you choose: Video

Research In Motion has the BlackBerry Bold and the BlackBerry Storm, both of which want your attention. A sale is a sale of course so it doesn’t matter to RIM if you choose their Bold or Storm as long as you choose one over the Apple iPhone.

The BlackBerry Bold and BlackBerry Storm are however, two different siblings from the same stable, and each one wants to be at the top of the RIM tree.

But could you choose between these three smartphones? Maybe you require a little help in making the right choice? So how about a video comparing the BlackBerry Bold, BlackBerry Storm, and the Apple iPhone 3G?

Thought you might like that, video can be found below.

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Pay-monthly Sony Ericsson C905 in Black on O2

The Sony Ericsson C905 is the first slide open mobile handset from Sony Ericsson to carry the Cyber-shot branding, and incorporates a world-class 8.1 megapixel Cyber-shot camera along with a Xenon flash and an auto-focus lens making the C905 a great mobile camera phone for the photo snapper.

The Sony Ericsson C905 8.1 megapixel mobile handset is now available at the Carphone Warehouse where they have it on the O2 network with a tariff of O2 - £35 – 18 months, 600 minutes and unlimited texts, free 1 months insurance and free voicemail, and a free Sony Ericsson C905 handset.

The Sony Ericsson C905 features built-in GPS, Bluetooth, FM radio, music player, games machine. Wifi, 3G connectivity, quad-band, measures 104 x 49 x 19.5mm with a weight of 136 grams.
To take advantage of this offer just pop along to The Carphone Warehouse

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T-Mobile G1 Android virtual keyboard on its way soon

The Google Android T-Mobile G1 is out, and it has quite a bit going for it, but it does come as a bit of surprise that this latest technological smartphone has opted to leave out any form of virtual keyboard, thus even the shortest text message requires the screen to be flipped out and for you to tap on the buttons.

But, this may just change fairly soon apparently as a rough roadmap at the new Android source repository actually has soft keys marked down for the first 3 months of 2009, which isn’t that long to wait when you think about it.

The roadmap also says though that if the android community should get involved the subject time-line could well change, so the G1 could possibly see a virtual keyboard even sooner. It is good to seen Google still working away at improving the G1, and of course if there are any eager android developers out there who wish to pitch in with the idea we could maybe see it even quicker.

Source – htcsource

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Samsung Propel A767 in blue for $79.99 with AT&T

AT&T have introduced to their portfolio the Samsung Propel A767, an advanced slider mobile handsets which has had its messaging streamlined to be more sleek in texting, instant messaging, and emailing with its full QWERTY keyboard.

The Samsung Propel A767 features high end multimedia access, web browser, 1.3 megapixel camera, Live Video Capture and Playback, MP3 Music Player, AT&T Mobile Music, AT&T Navigator, GSM/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, EDGE, 3G, Bluetooth 2.0, 2.2 inch display, and microSD expansion slot.

AT&T has the Samsung Propel A767 for $79.99 after a $50.00 rebate and on signing a two year agreement, or you can gain the Samsung Propel A767 without contract for 279.99.

Source – AT&T

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Introduction To Zt TV Cell Phone

Introduction To Zt TV Cell Phone was written by kelvinyau from sonicdigitals.info

CECT Iphone clones are getting more and more popular on the internet. They are P168, Hiphone and some other models you can name. Somehow not many people know about ZT Cell phone, which is another Chinese cell phone brand. ZT is a leading domestic manufacturer of mobile handsets in China. The ZT TV Cell phone has many decent features, it comes with all common features a normal cell phone have. Normally the ZT cell phones are bigger than the CECT Iphone clones, and their appearance is not that attractive, but the functions are very useful. The ZT TV Cell phone I am writing is 3.5 inch, touch screen control, multimedia playback, camera, dual SIM card, Bluetooth, video recording, surround sounds speaker, and of course the TV function. This TV phone is not a one button cell phone like Iphone, it has keypad, so it's widely accepted by most customers, especially if you like to text with keypad. Besides, this cell phone has the tilt technology when playing video, it changes the video from landscape to portrait according to your views.
Here are the features for ZT TV Cell phone.
Specifications :

• GSM: Dual band phone support 900/1800 HZ
• Languages : 9 languages supported, English, France, Spanish, Portuguese, Bahasa Melayu, Bahasa Indonesia, Thai, Russian, Vietnamese and Arabic.
• TV Function: Supported with built-in antenna
• Dimension: 104 x62 x 17mm
• Net weight: 113g
• Display: 3.5 inch 16:0 large screen display- touch control.
• Camera: Built-in Camera, CMOS, 1.3 Mega pixels (4 x Digital Zoom)
• Multimedia: MP3/MP4 supported, Bluetooth 2.0, WAP, MMS, video recording.
• Talk time: 3 hours (continuously).
• Standby time: 120 hours.
• Tilt technology: Video changed from portrait to landscape according to your view.

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Introduction To An TV Cell Phone Game Player Mixtures - C6000+

Introduction To An TV Cell Phone Game Player Mixtures - C6000+ was written by kelvinyau from cectphonestore.info

C6000+, the latest TV phone from CECT, the previous versions are C2000 and C3000. C6000+ has the same basic shape as its predecessor, but with a slide function, to make it a portable game player with the control panels included. And you will love the 3D surround sounds producing from the two "huge"� speakers. So it is an enchanting TV Cell phone, mobile cinema, as well as a portable game player.

The Good :

• C6000+ supports analog TV, you can watch TV on your cell phone everywhere.
• Enchanting design, 3 inch display screen with the slide features to make it a portable game player.
• x 3D Stereo Speaker, with 3D surround sounds, more than a normal cell phone can do.
• Carrier free, not limited to T-Mobile or AT&T, cell phone is unlocked.
• Long standby time: 120-200 hours
• Dual Sim Card, Dual standby.

The Bad :

C6000+ lacks some basic features found in many cell phones including

• No stereo bluetooth and 3G compatibility,
• TF memory card expansion is only up to 2G.
• Cell phone itself is heavier than a normal phone, which is 175g.

Here is the summary for the specifications for C6000+:

• TV mobile phone, mobile phones
• Built-in TV Tuner, FM Radio
• Dual SIM Card two stand by
• Bluetooth
• Network:
• GSM: 900M/1800MHZ
• Storage:
• 256MB T-FLASH memory card,
• Support T-Flash(up to 2GB)
• Powerful Capacity:
• 300 contacts (Business card style)
• 110 messages
• 50 messages concatenation
• Entertainment:
• Supports Analog TV, FM Radio
• Bluetooth
• MP4, MP3, wmv, asf, 3gp, streaming media
• 3D stereo speakers
• Mega Pixel Camera
• Video recording
• Built in games
• Business Application:
• Intelligent handwriting recognition
• PDA functions
• installed dictionary (Speech function)
• PenDisk (USB interface)
• WAP, GPRS, SMS, MMS, E-Mail, Cell Broadcast
• Other Applications:
• Voice recording
• Integrated Handsfree speaker
• Incoming call and message filter
• Password protection
• Standby time: 120-200 hours
• Talking time: 3-5hours
• SPECIFICATION
• Display: 3.0nch, 240*320, 262144 color TFT LED
• Battery: 1800mAh Li-ion Battery
• Size: 126*58*16mm
• Weight: About 175g

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Photography And Video Shooting With Sony Ericsson W595

Photography And Video Shooting With Sony Ericsson W595 was written by Mark Hirst from best-mobile-contracts.co.uk

There are many users who often look forward to the photography features of a mobile phone. This is not the case that they cannot afford to buy the normal cameras. But at the same time it is not possible to carry a big camera with you all the time.

There are moments when you come across some scenery or objects which should be captured and stored not only in your memory but also in reality. This is when a mobile camera comes very handy.

The Sony Ericsson W595 handset is designed keeping this in mind. With this phone in your hand you will no more miss any of the precious scenes that you feel is important to catch and save.

This phone contains a camera which comes with the capacity of 3.2 mega pixels. This is strong enough to click some of the best quality pictures. This is a common fact that the photographs look even livelier if the screen of the mobile is wide and clear enough.

This is the reason why the Sony Ericsson W595 phone comes with a large screen that is sized at 2.2 inches. The resolution of the screen is 240x320 pixels which make the viewing experience better than before.

On this TFT color display you are able to see about 256000 various shades. So you will never miss on a particular color that is there in your picture.

This is possible to shoot some clear videos with this phone. The video recording time available is up to two hours and you can save all your favorite videos in your phone as the memory space can be expanded up to 8 GB. The video calling time is 2 hours and 30 minutes which is good enough as a mode of communication.

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Motorola Introduces Two Advanced Noise Cancellation Universal Headsets

Motorola has unveiled two new, universal Bluetooth headsets that comes with background noise cancellation. The new MOTOPURE H15 Universal Bluetooth Headset features an exclusive flip design and has a dual-microphone design. It will automatically enhances frequencies to improve call clarity in both loud and quiet environments. The Motorola H780 Universal Bluetooth Headset offers style and distinct audio sound. Both headsets allow users to silence the noise with Motorola’s improved CrystalTalk technology for headsets.

Both MOTOPURE H15 and the H780 offer proprietary technology and other key features, including:


* Multipoint technology that enables users to connect to both a compatible Bluetooth enabled personal and business phone simultaneously.
* Universal compatibility, tested to work with over 200 compatible phone models from over 15 brands.
* Motorola’s TrueComfort design that conforms to the ear and has multiple ear cushion options for an even more customizable fit.
* EasyPair technology that simplifies how users connect with a compatible cell phone.

MOTOPURE H15 converts 15 minutes of charging time to over an hour of talk time. The headset stays connected to the phone while recharging on the desktop stand, so users are always ready to take the next call.


The new Motorola H780 lets users take the conversation for up to seven hours of hands-free talk time. A tiny, 9mm speaker comfortably fits over 90 percent of users tested by Motorola. A brushed, carbon fiber finish, spun metal, and textured side band create a sleek and slim look. MOTOPURE H15 and the H780 are expected to be available beginning in Q4 2008.

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OtterBox Launches iPhone 3G Protection

Famous for its rugged protection, OtterBox releases iPhone 3G protection case in the semi-rugged, drop and scratchproof Defender Series design. Case available now in black and coming soon in white, black/yellow and pink.
The new iPhone 3G case allows access to the silence switch, provides an improved screen and better fit and feel. Sync/charge, home, sleep/wake, volume, camera and headphone jack all remain accessible. Acoustical vents safeguard the microphone and speakers from dust and dirt to allow clear sound transmission. Case also includes a holster-style swivel belt clip which converts into a display stand when device is inserted screen out.

OtterBox will soon be offering a new silicone, skin-like case known as the Impact Series. Case will combine durable silicone with impact absorbing features and complete user interaction.

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Logitech Introduces Speaker Docks for iPods and iPhones

Logitech introduces the Pure-Fi Express Plus omnidirectional speaker and Pure-Fi Anytime premium alarm clock for iPod or iPhone. The Pure-Fi Express Plus speaker with omnidirectional acoustic technology provides audio at a consistent level anywhere in the room, while the Pure-Fi Anytime premium alarm clock features advanced motion-sensing technology. Both speakers are compatible with the first generation iPhone as well as the new 3G iPhone.
Speaker Docks for iPods and iPhones
The Logitech Pure-Fi Anytime is an iPod/iPhone alarm clock that offers premium sound with innovative features that comes with a motion-sensing snooze. With a wave of your hand you can put the alarm to be activated again later. It will also recharge your iPod or iPhone when docked so your batteries won’t die. Other than iPhone and iPod, it will also accept audio input via the 3.5 mm auxiliary input

Product Specifications

* Dimensions: (L x W x H): 10.5 x 4.0 x 4.0 inches
* Weight: 2.56 pounds
Speaker Docks for iPods and iPhones
The new Logitech Pure-Fi Express Plus speaker is a omnidirectional speakers that delivers great audio at a consistent level anywhere in the room. The speaker system also functions as a clock with alarm and can be powered by 6 AA batteries. Same as the Logitech Pure-Fi Anytime, you can use it to recharge your iPod or iPhone too.
Product Specifications

* Dimensions (L x W x H): 13.75 x 4.25 x 5.0 inches
* Weight: 3.37 pounds

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New Sony Bluetooth Stereo Headphones

Sony has unveiled their new range of Bluetooth Stereo Wireless Active stereo headphones, including the DR-BT160AS, DR-BT160IK and DR-BT14Q.

The DR-BT160AS Bluetooth Stereo wireless headphone compatible with most Bluetooth music source, comes with an in-built microphone so you can take hands-free calls from your Bluetooth mobile phone directly. The splashproof, street-smart design features a soft elastomer hanger for a comfortable, secure fit on your ears. The sliding earpiece shaft can be easily adjusted to fit a wide range of ear sizes. The DR-BT160AS makes it easy to skip tracks and to adjust volume and other music player functions using convenient controls on the side of the headset.

Also available, the DR-BT140Q ear-clip headphone offers great audio quality from your Bluetooth music player, with a comfortable clip-on fit and fingertip control of player functions.

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Wilson Electronics Announces SignalBoost Mobile Professional Amplifier Kit

Wilson Electronics introduces the SignalBoost Mobile Professional amplifier kit. The kit is a compact and portable package that will improve cell phone and data card performance on the road or indoors.

The amplifier extends signal range and increases data rates by strengthening cellular signals in areas that typically have weak or unusable connections. The plug-and-play kit sets up in minutes and can be powered directly from a computer USB port, a vehicle cigarette lighter or standard AC outlet.

The SignalBoost Mobile Professional amplifier kit includes:

* SignalBoost Mobile Professional wireless amplifier with built-in antenna
* Outside magnet-mount antenna
* USB power cable
* Cigarette lighter and AC power adapters
* Suction cup window-mount antenna bracket
* Portable carry case that fits easily in a suitcase, briefcase or purse
* Installation guide

The magnet-based antenna, mounted on a vehicle roof or on the suction-cup window bracket within a building, communicates with the cell site. The amplifier unit, about the size of a candy bar, boosts the signal and broadcasts it within the vehicle or room through its built-in antenna. Its dual-band, bidirectional design works with all Cellular and PCS carriers on the 800 and 1900 MHz frequencies (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, Alltel, etc.).

The SignalBoost Mobile Professional will be available in four kit configurations to meet users’ specific needs. The suggested retail price range for these kits is $259.95 to $279.95 at authorized Wilson Electronics dealers, including Radio Shack franchise stores.

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iPower backup battery is a double joy

The initial small ‘i’ clearly points out the fact that the device in question is related to iPhone. Brando’s iPower is a backup battery for those users who would like to make complete use of the big screen of Apple’s prodigal son. This backup battery has a unique feature, apart from its bulk. iPower comes with a built-in 1.5Wspeaker and thus delivers extra juice and also pumps up the volume. The docking feature would be especially appreciated while playing a movie. Its 2400mAh guarantees 3 hours of extra life. iPower comes for both the generations of iPhone and the 3G version boasts of external volume control buttons. Brando’s offering will cost you a mere 44 greenbacks.

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USB Solar Tree that charges your gadgets

The power of the sun is phenomenal, so much so that our very existence depends upon it. Plants and trees trap the solar energy to recharge their cells…meaning create food for sustenance. Similarly this unique PhotonSynthesis Tree by Vivien Muller traps the sun’s energy to recharge your gadgets via USB. This is beautiful example of replicating nature’s theory in practical life that not only is eco-friendly but also sensible. Keeping up with the decorative theme of this hub, all the wires are plugged and concealed under the electronic bonsai tray. Fifty-four tiny photovoltaic panels juice up the device and modules are all fitted together via 3.5 jack connectors.

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DIAMOND Series pure silicone casing for your iPhone 3G

Apple’s catalogue is all about cosmetics, it’s about the looks and iPhone is not any different. People buy iPhone for its looks (and for its multi-touch) and first thing they do is buy a silicon cover, ironic. Average silicone cover is blunt; they take away the beauty factor of your phone and same goes for iPhone. Gladly, people at more-thing realized that and have rolled out a beautiful line-up of 100% pure silicone covers for iPhone 3G. DIAMOND Series consists of 4 different shades (black, lemon, clear and deep pink). Like all other covers these cases too have openings for LCD screen, headset, dock connector and camera. Manufacturers claim that these cases are perfectly safe and comply with U.S. 21 F.D.A. Regulation Part 177.2600 (rubber articles) standard. The cases are available at more-thing for just $22.90. More pics of iPhone (black as well as white ones) covered in these cases after the jump.

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