Saturday 24 August 2013

Leaked: 10 Hottest Upcoming Smartphones

#10 Nokia Lumia EOS
Despite the fact that the Finns have maintained well-kept secret so far, we got hold of some of the leaked images online that tells us an exciting story on theupcoming Lumia EOS Smartphone which will probably be a whole metal version ofLumia 1020. The photo reportedly has a whooping 41MP pure-view camera. Rumors also state that the phone will have OLED display with 768X1280 pixels screen resolution and an internal storage of 32GB. While this prototype image is already causing exciting buzz among people, we can only imagine the effect of the “real-deal”.
#9 Samsung Galaxy Folder
If you thought flip phones with old-school T9 keypads were out of fashion, a look at the leaked Samsung Galaxy Folder will surely change your mind. This rumored flip phone runs on 4.2.2 Android Jelly Bean OS. It has a dual 3.3 inch HVGA touch screen display with a modest 800 x 480MP resolution and has a 5MP rear-camera. The phone runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 dual-core processor with LTE connectivity. There is no mention of the pricing and release date, yet rumors state that it’ll be first released in South Korea, sometime in next month.


#8 iPhone 5C, Apple’s budget Smartphone
Recent rumors speculate on Apple’s next release in September, iPhone 5C that targets a larger mass. Speculations surround these budget-friendly iPhoneswhich are allegedly made of glossy polycarbonate plastic back panels that come in 6 different colors; red, blue, white, green, yellow and black colors respectively. This cheaper iPhone hand-set comes in three variable prices starting from $349, $449 and $549 with 16, 32 and 64GB internal memory variants. Nothing solid can be confirmed about the device’s hardware but rumors state that these mid-range iPhones are likely to have 4-inch display with 1136 x 640p resolution screen and a 326ppi image density. The rear camera could be of 8MP with LED flash and front-face timer camera could be of 1.2MP.
#7 BlackBerry Z30
There has been a lot of rumors on the phone specifications of BlackBerry Z30, alias A10. With the latest leaks on the images of Z30 and a six-minute detailed video of the phone, the rumors can officially be confirmed. The specifications include a 1.7GHz dual-core processor, a 5-inch display with 1280 x 720 resolution, 2GB of RAM, an 8MP rear camera with LED flash and a 2800 mAh battery. It runs on BlackBerry 10.2 OS and has 16GB of internal storage. The latest piece of information is that BlackBerry Z30 is designed to be a QI wireless charging compatible device and said to support wireless charging.


#6 LG Vu III
LG Vu III will reportedly be the successor of Vu II and will be next in line with G2, the current flagship Smartphone of LG. Sources claim that the Vu range phones will be released with model numbers F-300K, F-300L and F-300S. This third-generation Smartphone will possess a 5.2 inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 960 pixels. The phone runs on a Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM and comes with an internal memory of 16GB.
The launch date will be on the early September, during IFA 2013 unveiling event.
#5 Nokia Phablet
We got hold of the leaked photo of theupcoming Nokia Phablet, all thanks to the Chinese micro blogging website. The image displays just the glassy front panel of the device with Nokia logo on it. It also shows a standard three-key layout at the bottom. The top corner has front facing camera and the overall screen size is about 6-inch. As reported by Weibo, the device is presumably under mass production in China. This device is likely to include latest quad-core processors with 1080p resolution display. Because of its wide build, there will be another row of Live Tiles introduced on the home screen.


#4 Sony Xperia i1 Honami
Rumors surrounding the 20MP camera on a Sony Android phone is indeed true. According to the reports on ePrice.com, this upcoming device, under the code name Xperia i1 Honami, has an Exmor Rs camera with 1/2.3" sensor, Sony G-lens and Bionz image processor at its rear-end. The Device sports a 5-inch display screen and runs on Android 4.2 JellyBean OS. It also has 16GB of internal storage with 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor at its core, backed by 2GB RAM. The phone has a battery power of 3,000mAh and 2MP front camera. Overall, i1 Honami is about 8.3mm in thickness. It also inherits the water and dust resistant feature of Xperia Z10.
Reports state that the device will be unveiled on September 4, the first day of IFA 2013 event.
#3 HTC One Max
We are all aware of the success of HTC One, the critically acclaimed flagship handset. And HTC One Max claims to have a bigger version of its flagship peer. It is expected to feature a 5.9-inch screen with 1920x1080p resolution and follows the same design sequence as HTC One. Rumors state that One Max runs on quad-core Snapdragon 800 chipset clocked at 2.3GHz, backed by 2GB RAM. Further, the phone is said to be launched at the same time as Samsung Galaxy Note III.
 


#2 Samsung Galaxy Note III
By being one of the most eagerly awaited Smartphones of the year, Galaxy Note III claims to be one of the most notoriously leaked phones online. It has a 5.7 inch screen display which is rumored to be made of a strong unbreakable substance. It features a 13MP camera with optical image stabilization, a quad-core 2.3GHz Snapdragon 800 chipset with 3GB RAM and Android 4.3 OS.
If rumors are true, this extravagant Smartphone will come in four variants suiting different market needs. It is expected to be launched on September 4 at the IFA 2013 opening ceremony.


#1 Apple iPhone 5S
Apple iPhone claims to be the next-generation Apple Smartphone though it has the same look and feel like that of its predecessors. Rumors state that this device will have a faster processor than the previous devices with 13MP camera and dual LED flash. It also comes with a bigger battery and boasts of a fingerprint sensor technology. This phone is said to be unveiled on September 10 with multiple color options.

Most Innovative Gadgets of All Time

14. The Walkman helped people listen to music outside of their homes and cars


The walkman was introduced between the years 1979-1980. Sony was the first company to launch Walkmans. It is said to be the first mainstream gadget as people started carrying this device every where they went. The device revolutionized music listening habits of people allowing them to carry their favorite music, wherever they wanted to.


Why it's innovative: The Walkman paved way for all the other music gadgets present in the market. 


13. Google Glass is the first wearable heads-up display to grab the public's attention in a big way


Google glass, the wearable computer displays information like a Smartphone and allows usage of internet through voice commands. The glass has a built in microphone and camera. As the first ever device of its kind that grabbed public attention, Google glass created the ‘wearable technology’ trend.


Why it’s innovative: This might look like a science fiction movie glass. Google glass changed the way, people could see the world.
12. Microsoft’s Kinect changed the way we play games


The Xbox Kinect, an accessory that came with Xbox 360 became a hit in the market with its capability. This device was the first one that did not require a game controller to play video games. The marketing slogan used by Microsoft goes like, “you are the controller”.       


Why it's innovative: The Xbox Kinect offers full body gaming with voice controls; this means the remote control is dead. This would Take the home entertainment and gaming to the next level.


 


11. The MakerBot Replicator will help us print everything from car parts to food


We have seen things being replicated like-machines, accessories and food by a replicator in sci-fi movies. The MakerBotReplicator is just the beginning and the early version of it.


Why it's innovative: This invention set the platform for replicators to rise, currently 3D printing with The MakerBot gives an insight into what our future might hold. These things would be able to replicate anything. 
10. The Nest is the most advanced thermostat ever and it's paving way for smart appliances


When the Nest was introduced, people went crazy over it. The thermostat was also called the first “Apple-fied” home appliance. Nest was designed to maintain home temperature based on an individual's habit by detecting when he goes out or sleep.


Why it's innovative:  This is a giant leap towards smart home appliances, allowing the device to do all the thinking for you. If all the home appliances came with start features, it would save a lot on electric bill.


9. Cloud computing will take away the burden of backing up your stuff



There was always a question in people’s minds when it came to storage of documents, photos and videos. In the last decade “The Cloud” has shaped its way into the tech world. It’s a way of storing files online and can be accessed through web when needed. Presently services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Box.net allow you to send and store large files. These are now available even in mobiles; the folder on your desktop and mobile directly links you to the files.  


Why it's innovative: The Cloud is easily accessible through web. It lets people to keep their important files safe and also save valuable space on the computer, tablet or Smartphone
8. The iPad made tablets desirable


The Tablet PCs were present even beforeiPad hit the market. But nobody knew about it until the iPad was launched!


Why it's innovative:  The iPad set the standard for tablet, this device showed world what features a tablet has to possess.



7. Google’s self-driving cars could make the roads safer for people


Google received mixed responses for their self-driving cars. The search giant, along with their scientists is on a mission to design the perfect driverless cars. The car is set to be safe and user friendly. Currently these cars are functioning in few cities as trial versions.


Why it's innovative: The self-driving cars under perfection could benefit the people in lot of ways. These cars would also reduce the rate of accidents and also drunk driving.
6. The iPhone and its lack of buttons changed mobile device design forever


The new era of Smartphones began wheniPhone was launched. This Phone provided various features and apps through its app store.


 Why it's innovative: This phone had a unique design, with no buttons and its ability to connect to Wi-Fi networks changed the mobile industry all over the world.    


5. Solid state drives will make computers faster than ever


SSDs are flash based storage options, these hard disks are known to boot at an average of 22 seconds and can transfer files faster than other storage options.


Many would have noticed how fast aMacbook Air or An Intel Ultrabook boots up when compared to other laptops. The only disadvantage of SSD’s are they are expensive.


Why it's innovative: It is said that the prices of SSDs would go down, and this would replace the ordinary hard drives in all laptops.
4. Bendable displays are real, and they're coming soon


LG is reportedly launching flexible displays for their touch screen devices. The devices are made through OLED display sheets and will be launched this year    


Why it's innovative: The technology would allow mobiles to be super thin and foldable. This would raise the level of completion among all mobile manufacturers.  


3. LTE phones and tablets are a hint at a future where high-speed internet is everywhere


Long Term Evolution (LTE) is a wireless technology that allows people to use high speed internet in mobile devices. The LTE’s are said to as fast as the cable modems which are in use today. The world's first publicly available LTE service was launched by TeliaSonera on December 14, 2009.


Why it's innovative: There were times when people found it hard to find high speed internet. The LTE chips are just a beginning of high speed internet to mobiles and tablets.
2. Voice controlled assistants like Siri will only get smarter and cater to your every need


Siri is an intelligent personal assistant forApple's iOS. This app uses voice commands to operate a particular task. It is presently available in many other services. This app is similar to Google Now, which performs the same functions in Android.

Why it's innovative: This was the beginning in its kind. Siri assistance would make things more user friendly to people.  


1. Connected TVs and TV boxes are making it easier to cut the cord


Connected TV, also known as Hybrid TV orSmart TV allows people to have a higher focus on online interactive media, Internet TV, and on-demand streaming media. They give you access to YouTube, HBO, Amazon, and a lot more


Why it's innovative: Through we will be able to get everything in a single TV, this opens door for more innovations to take place in this area.

10 Best Android Smartphones Running Stock Android

#10 Nexus 4


Google Nexus 4, manufactured by LG is the most renowned one in the list with an elegant design and an excellent screen. Running on stock Android 4.2, the software is devoid of any unwanted apps that messes up the OS. It stands with its stunning smooth performance and moreover, being one of the products from search giant, Google.


Nexus 4 brings best features in terms of processor, a quad-core one which clocks at 1.5 GHz, and uncluttered software apart from camera features. It is a highly recommended handset for those wanting to join high-end handset revolution by paying a little less 25, 990, compared to other devices.
#9 Xperia Z- Google Edition


With a cutting-edge camera, a super-slim design and the ability to withstand bumps, dust-protected and water-protected, the Xperia Z is an excellent Smartphone that striked the Sony Mobiles. The full HD Android flagship high-end Smartphone comes with the best specs and although pricey at 37, 365 it offers the unique and latest features, especially the water-proof and dust-proof features.


When it comes to cameras, Sony is known to be the beast. It is built on the strong heritage of the Walkman and offers good battery performance and top-speeds.


#8 Galaxy S4- Google edition


Samsung’s flagship phone, Galaxy S4 is one of the most successful Android handsets up to date. The company has paired Android with the most iteration of its TouchWiz user interface brimmed with high-end features and options.


In a twist of tale, Google, on last week decided to release a pure version of Galaxy S4 with a pure Nexus experience.  And the result, a high end Samsung Smartphone with the purest Android experience.


It comes in a slim uni-body making itself the world's first phone with an 8 core processor. The Smartphone has unique features, keeping users engaged in a lot of fun activities. Priced at 41, 000; it is a great Smartphone offering commendable camera and screen contrasts. It has a sleek look and offers good grip in the hands of users.
#7 HTC One


Similar to the Galaxy S4, Google gave the Nexus treatment to HTC’s Android flagship, the HTC One. The device combines stunning design, a supreme screen and explosive power to offer one of the best Smartphones. It stands out among other Android phones showing its class and finesse with good build, and innovative camera. In addition, it has an n IR sensor that makes it work like a TV remote as well.


The HTC One recently launched the device with the stock version of Google’s Android operating system. This "Nexus user experience" version will contain 32GB of built-in storage.


#6 Karbonn S5


The Karbonn S5 Titanium, successor to the S1 Titanium features an upgraded 5-inch qHD display and an 8-megapixel rear camera. The Karbonn S5 Titanium looks a little different from its predecessor and is thinner. It runs on Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean operating system, similar to that of S1 Titanium.


Priced at 11, 575; the dual-SIM Karbonn S5 Titanium powered by quad-core processor offers an excellent performance and is equipped with a good camera. The overall experience of navigation through the interface is impressive due to the Android operating system and the phone’s quad-core processor.
#5 Micromax Canvas HD


Micromax A116 Canvas HD, successor to the company’s budget phablet A110 Canvas 2. The device looks like an enlarged version of the Samsung Galaxy Nexus and looks compact compared to Canvas 2. The phone runs on stock Android version 4.1.2, Jelly Bean operating system. Similar to most other Android devices, there are five customizable home screens that can be filled with app shortcuts and widgets.


The phone is a worthy upgrade to A110. Priced at 13, 990 it is indeed worth buying as it offers the best features including excellent screen and decent performance. Despite its flaws of poor camera and slippery body, it offers a decent battery life at an affordable price.


#4 Lava Xolo A1000


Lava Xolo is the first company to release Intel powered Smartphones, adding X1000 to its series. This Smartphone has better looks among sub 20k handsets. It has a powerful processor and a camera with a bright display with good internal storage capacity, claiming to be the 'fastest phone ever'.


The Smartphone runs on Android 4.0 Jelly Bean, operating system. Priced at 19, 000, the Smartphone comes with sleek design and clear display screen.
#3 Karbonn S1 Titanium


The dual-SIM Karbonn S1 Titanium powered by quad-core processor offers an excellent performance as well as triumphs over other dual-core processor powered phones priced at a range of 10, 500. It runs on stock Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean operating system.


The decent budget Smartphone could be a bit of deal breaker in terms of poor quality screen and below average call quality but offers the best performance in terms of processor and operating system. The device comes with a 1600mAh battery lasts to around 6 hours and 20 minutes, including usage of 3G, phone calls, Whatsapp chats, Twitter notifications and playing music.


#2 HTC First


HTC First, codenamed as Myst is an Android Smartphone pre-loaded with Facebook’s own user interface layer, Facebook Home. It is a mid-range Smartphone and the first of the HTC phone to run a stock version of Android. It does not ship the HTC Sense software.


The HTC First is also the first Smartphone to include the Instagram as a pre-loaded app. If Facebook Home is disabled, the device reverts to a stock Android 4.1 experience.


#1 Lava Iris 501


Lava, leading manufacturer in India has its Smartphone Iris 501, priced at 9, 999. Running on 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich, Lava recently announced its rolling update. The phone has its own custom user interface which sticks close to the stock Android UI, although with different icons.


The model features a 5-megapixel autofocus rear camera with LED flash, VGA front camera and 4GB internal storage which can be expanded to 32GB via microSD card. It comes with a 2,300mAh battery which can stand to 7.8 hours talk time and 620 hours standby mode

10 best running gadgets: the top tech for training

Free running is all very well, but we've all got different goals and circumstances. Some run to lose weight, others to boost their aerobic fitness, while speed is the top priority of the more experienced.
Either way, there are gadgets that can help you get through the run - from tiny MP3 players, wireless headphones and the latest in running-centric trainers, armbands and backpacks - to those that help you monitor your progress. Think activity trackers, GPS watches and heart rate monitors.
Don't load yourself necessarily with gadgetry, but instead choose wisely and concentrate on that one product that will motivate you, and keep you on track to achieve your goals. Here are some of the best running gadgets around, that you might like to buy.

1. Griffin Adidas miCoach Armband for iPhone 5 & iPod touch - £20/US$30 (around AU$33)

Best running gadgets
Echewing GPS watches and activity tracker armbands for a free app such as RunKeeper, Endomondo Sports Tracker or MapMyRun is fine, but where will you put your phone? A downright awkward gadget to carry while on a trail, Griffin has come up with a simple armband that keeps a smartphone dry and out of the way.
An ultra-lightweight nylon band that easily adjusts in diameter, its moisture wicking claims are less impressive than its ability to stay in place. Some won't like the restrictive feeling on their upper arm, but there's no doubting its usefulness. As well as easily trailing headphones through a t-shirt sleeve, there's a port for connecting the Adidas miCoach Connect heart rate monitor - hence the otherwise irrelevant branding tie-up.
But our favourite feature? A tiny key holder that snaffles away that essential - though irritating - running companion.

2. Sennheiser Adidas PMX 685i Sports - £50/US$72/AU$100

Best running gadgets
Though boasting a rather odd design, it's good to see a running-specific pair of earphones. The sweat and water-resistant - and even washable - Sennheiser Adidas PMX 685i Sports neckband headset is worn across the back of the head, thereby avoiding the back-and-forth of a headband, something that automatically makes then suited only to running.
It's not just about fit. The actual tips of the earphones take a slight step back to avoid blocking out all noise - crucial if you're running along roads - though still manage to deliver full, bassy sonics.
Crucially, there's a cable clip for clothes, and an in-line remote control on the audio cable that operates volume and navigation and enables you to answer phone calls on the move.

3. Berghaus Limpet 10+ backpack - £50 (around US$78/AU$82)

Best running gadgets
Probably the most versatile - as well as the tiniest - backpack we've ever used, the Berghaus Limpet 10+ is ideal for trail running. It's made from a reflective waterproof fabric and sits snugly on a back, thanks not only to the shoulder straps, a chest fastener and waist straps (rare at this small size), but also to mottled foam pads that create some airflow in the centre, thereby reducing sweaty back syndrome.
Mesh pockets on the outside are handy for sunglasses and liquids, while inside an elasticated pouch can take a hydration pack. That's all perfect for trail running, though the Limpet 10+ does a decent all-round job, too. It's zip-expandable around its hull to increase load to 15 litres, while that elasticated pouch is perfect for a 10-inch netbook or tablet.

4. Sony NWZ-E474 Walkman - £80/US$90 (around AU$130)

Best running gadgets
OK, so you're not going to be watching much video, but this tiny MP3 player weighs just 51g (1.8oz), which is perfect for stowing in a pocket or armband while on the move. With an FM tuner and a generous 8GB of storage - though sadly there's no microSD card slot for upgrading - this Walkman plays music for a stunning 36 hours and video for over five hours on a single charge. It even has a handy SensMe mode that presumably uses BPM data to play only fast-paced tunes in 'workout' mode.
However, for us it's the expansive sound quality that puts this Walkman in pole position, despite the headphones supplied being less than brilliant. Transferring files is a simple drag 'n' drop process, and was painless using a Mac.
A cheaper alternative is something like the Sansa Clip+, but you won't find many tiny MP3 players that sound as good as this Walkman.

5. Jabra Sport - £90/US$100/AU$150

Best running gadgets
They may not have caught on with commuters, but the concept of Bluetooth headphones is arguably at its best as a sports technology.
Don't fall prey to the 'cable-free' argument - the link to a smartphone is replaced by a meaty cable that joins the two earpieces, and there's a cable for regular recharging, too - but the Jabra Sport manages to be both comfortable and reliable despite the chunky design. It does take a little getting used, but since it's sweat-proof and instantly links to a phone (once initially paired), it's well prepared.
Meanwhile, sound quality - not exactly Bluetooth headphones' best trait - is thoroughly respectable, and certainly good enough for a run.

6. Adidas Energy Boost Shoes - £110/US$150/AU$180

Best running gadgets
They might look worryingly similar to polystyrene, but the soles of these new Adidas Energy Boost trainers are said to revolutionise the way you run. The new Boost foam - which is actually thermoplastic polyurethane - is used for its ability to bounce back into shape after every step, thereby reducing the strain on joints and muscles.
An 'energy returning boost' is the key concept here, though just as important is comfort, with a snug 'techfit' and a super-lightweight construction.
If you want to stay on-brand, you might consider pairing the shoes with theAdidas miCoach Speed Cell and app.

7. Nike+ FuelBand - £130/US$150 (around AU$213)

Best running gadgets
An accelerometer worn on a wrist that tracks how active you are throughout the day, Nike's FuelBand differs from the Fitbit One and other rivals with its sheer style and system of monitoring achievements on your iPhone (or at nikeplus.nike.com). Some doubt these gadget's usefulness, but just having something telling you how active you are each day is an astonishingly powerful motivator - the truth obviously does hurt.
What doesn't hurt is that the Nike+ FuelBand just looks gorgeous, with its simple black rubbery exterior and single band of silver at the clasp. Press the single button on the FuelBand and a system of LEDs light up on the face. And unlike pretty much every other gadget we've seen, these lights really do look as if they're embedded into the band, and the effect is mightily pleasing.
Key metrics - number of steps taken, calories burned, and the time - are displayed for around a week on a full charge. There's no GPS to track runs, but it could be paired with the free Nike+ Running app on an iPhone.
Read our full Nike+ FuelBand review

8. Polar RC3 GPS with Heart Rate Monitor - £200/US$260/AU$300

Best running gadgets
Anyone with running experience will tell you that understanding your own heart-rate is the best way to understand running, and Polar's latest sports watch takes full advantage of that by adding GPS, too.
An all-in-one GPS training computer in eye-catching red and orange colour, the super-light 58g (2oz) Polar RC3 is aimed at runners and cyclists. Speed, distance, altitude and route are calculated using GPS satellites (there's even a 'back to start' feature, though that's only of use if you weren't lost en route), but it's the Smart Coaching features that are most impressive. Zone Optimizer mode adjusts your heart rate zones for every training session, based on your current physiological condition, while Fitness Test puts you through five minutes of pain to track your progress.
A Running Index feature compares running efficiency based on your heart rate and speed, giving you an estimated finish time, while all data can be uploaded to polarpersonaltrainer.com for analysis. And, yes, you can share all of this on Facebook, you big show-off.

9. Garmin Forerunner 610 - £280/US$400/AU$500

Best running gadgets
GPS-capable watches are myriad, but this one from Garmin does more than just talk to satellites. Its key features for runners include Virtual Racer and Virtual Partner, which enables you to race your previous bests, another user's pace, or a static, pre-determined pace.
Once it's collected the data from your run, it can upload straight to a computer to use Garmin Connect, a social media-cum-analytical platform that puts you on a map and presents lap splits. It also measures the impact of a run on your aerobic fitness.
Completely waterproof, the Garmin Forerunner 610 uses a one-inch touchscreen, and pairs with a Mac or PC using the fitness gadget-centric ANT+ wireless tech.

10. Tom Tom Runner GPS Watch - price TBC

Best running gadgets
TomTom's mapping system makes its first GPS watch a no-brainer. This running-centric version (there's a separate multi-sport model that's better for cyclists and swimmers) is aimed at causal joggers, and has a huge, clean display that uses just one central control below.
The watch asks you to fill out a personal profile, including your age, weight, height and gender. All these factors then get taken into account when it comes to mapping your performance stats and targets. At its core are three different modes.
Zone mode enables you to set a particular pace or heart rate, and measure your performance against it, so that if you go too fast the bars on the screen chart will increase and the watch will vibrate to let you know. Go too slow and you'll also be given a gentle buzz to tell you that it's time to pick up the pace.
Race mode compares your runs with previous efforts, but cleverly keeps a close eye on every step of your run in real time, rather than using averages, so that finding the exact points where you slowed down or sped up are easy to identify. Finally, Goal mode is all about you setting your distance and calorie targets.
TomTom will be launching its own backend platform called MySports, but the watch will also be compatible with other popular services such as RunKeeper. The interface is simple, with everything the fitness aficionado needs.