Nokia N97 Review

SOURCE: MOBILE88.COM (STEFAN NAIDU)

THE Nokia N97 has been keenly awaited since its worldwide introduction late last year as it was touted to be the next big thing in the mobile market by many observers.
The phone is laden with features and it is bound to be a Herculean task to condense all the features and functions in one sitting so there is little space to waste.
Sliding tilter?

The first thing you will notice about this model is what Nokia officials call a sliding-tilt?phone. This means that you push one side forward and it tilts up to give you that mini-desktop look and feel, which I personally think is excellent for all kinds of situations.

A Qwerty keyboard has always been a requirement for me as I like to feel buttons beneath my fingertips when I am typing an SMS, e-mail or URL.

This particular keyboard is a tad small for my big fingers but after a few days I was typing quite fluently. Beyond the Qwerty keyboard, the sole traditional button is the silver menu button. Side buttons include a lock button, volume control and camera toggle.

I was a little concerned about the wear and tear with the sliding-tilt hinge. Nokia have said that the hinge is made out of extremely sturdy material and that the phone has passed vigorous performance and drop tests.

I can say that it has passed my own accidental drop tests and the hinge does look and feel pretty strong.

The only real issue I had with the physical characteristics of the N97 was the back cover and battery, both of which are unrealistically hard to remove and replace.

Having tried this on a variety of people with different finger sizes and varying lengths of fingernails, I have concluded that it is near impossible to take out the battery without a prying mechanism. Tragic.

Online sensation

Built for the Internet, the Nokia N97 allocates the majority of its touchable home screen to movable and customisable widgets for quick access to your online needs.
Users are able to put their widgets in specific rows?and there are around five rows in total. It was really useful having a link to online news and social networking sites.

Given the relative speed of fixed line broadband these days, many a time I was able to go online and check for updates faster on my mobile than on my laptop.
It is especially useful when you are on the go and need information quickly. Its always easier to prove a point or win an argument when you have Google embedded on the front screen of your phone.

It would be practical to consider a mobile broadband plan to get the most out of the Nokia N97 without slowly bleeding your wallet dry paying off the data charges.
Rocket science?
The resistive touch technology coupled with Nokia's software makes for a very elegant combination. Navigating is by no means second nature, there are some hurdles in figuring out exactly how the web browser works.

One example is the zoom. There is a vertical tab that allows you to zoom in and out but, at least initially, you are not sure which part of the webpage it will zoom in to.
I still think that a Nokia phone is the one of the more user-friendly phones you can buy. This model has stayed true to that.

However as more and more functions get added to phones like this one, it just takes longer to find what you are looking for.
There were some bugs in the Nokia N97's software post-release and I did experience some hanging and other minor glitches. According to Nokia officials, those imperfections were addressed in the first software update that is now available.
Wait, there is more

I took countless pictures and videos in the short time I had this phone with me. With 32GB of memory on board I never even thought about whether I had enough space for all of it.
The camera is just about as good as it gets on a phone and the video quality is quite impressive.
Given this, it was surprising that the voice recorder was not nearly as high end in terms of sound recording quality as I thought it would be. Some recordings turned out quite muffled.
The biggest disappointments were the speakers. The music output (specifically the bass) left something to be desired and you could barely make out what the other person is saying when you turn on the speakerphone at full volume.
My guess is that Nokia had packed far too much in this phone already and therefore the speakers were more of an afterthought (much like the removal process for the back cover and battery).

Conclusion
There is an inherent charm in the Nokia N97 that is inescapable. From placing it on a table and writing an SMS to surfing on a fantastically long landscape mode, it was all quite memorable as far as phones go.
Also, I thought the price was quite reasonable considering the usual trend with new releases of high-end and feature filled devices. That is not to say I consider it cheap though.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the phone and would recommend it to anyone looking for a powerhouse smartphone.
Pros: Unique sliding tilt; great to surf on; excellent fusion of Qwerty keyboard and touch technology.

Cons: Substandard speakers; cumbersome battery cover.
Nokia N97 Specifications:3G smartphoneCamera: 5-megapixelsDisplay: 3.5in (640 x 360-pixels)Messaging: SMS, MMS, e-mailConnectivity: WLAN, HSDPA, USB, BluetoothMemory: 32GB internal memory, MicroSD slotStandby/talk time: 400 hours/360 minutesDimensions: 55.3 x 15.9 x 117.2mm (w x d x h)
Other features: Widgets, A-GPSPrice: RM2,480 (Check latest price)

How Many CPU Cores Do You Need?

Source: Tomshardware.com

Now that we've seen the evidence, our overall conclusion remains consistent with the previous one: we still don't think you need to be a power user to enjoy the benefits of a multi-core CPU. Call us spoiled, but we wouldn't seriously consider living with a single-core CPU on a day-to-day basis given the amount of multitasking going on regularly. The benchmark results clearly show that increasing numbers of CPU cores perform better when multiple applications are run at the same time.

We must point out that CPUs with fewer physical cores are often clocked somewhat higher to help make up for the performance deficit, so the situation certainly isn't dire for those of you who chose dual-core CPUs.

In the final analysis, we'd recommend at least a dual-core CPU to most folks out there. As for the power-user, three or four CPU cores will likely be appreciated and can't be considered overkill if concurrent applications are running.

Klipsch Image S4i Review

Source: John Herrman (Gizmodo)

The Klipsch Image S4i is one of the only non-Apple iPhone headsets on the market that supports both the iPod Shuffle's VoiceOver function and the iPhone 3GS's Voice Control.
The Price: $100

The Verdict: At just $20 more than Apple's In-Ear headset, the Klipsch Image S4i is a no-brainer, assuming Voice Control and VoiceOver are priorities to you. If they don't matter, or if you've got an older iPhone or non-Apple handset, the choice is less clear.

Klipsch's headset is one of the only ones on the market with Apple's VoiceOver-compatible chip—a feature we raised a stink about when it first came out, but which turned out to be alright. As far as 3G Shuffle headphones go, this is about as nice as you're going to get. The sound will suit most tastes, but not all: it's extremely clear, and bass is smooth and deep, but never overpowering. Overall the sound reminds me of the V-Moda Vibe Duos—always a reliable standby for better-than-stock iPhone headsets—except slightly more resolved, and less muddy.

What this headset doesn't have, though, is the kind of razor-sharp presence that you'd find in headphones like the Shure SE115, or headsets like the (markedly more expensive) Etymotics hf2, or the powerful percussiveness of some of Altec Lansing's UE rebrands. (More on those here.) Isolation and cable movement noise are better than I expected from tips made from rubbery material like this, as is fit: both are excellent, though fans of foam or foam-rubber tips will have to go aftermarket.

That's Klipsch's official compatibility chart, and they're not kidding. If your device isn't on this list, don't expect much: older iPhones get basic play/pause functionality out of the inline remote, while the 1G Touch doesn't recognize it at all. Phones from other manufacturers, including HTC and Samsung, didn't recognize remote or mic input. The Image S4i isn't just 3GS and Shuffle compatible, it's exclusive. And one last minor quibble: I haven't been carrying these things around for very long, and the Klipsch logo—as you can see in the top image—is already flaking off of the otherwise well-styled and built earbuds. Far from a dealbreaker, but disconcerting, considering how new these things are. [Klipsch]

(+) Excellent sound quality for the price, in both mic and earphones

(+) Work with VoiceOver and Voice Control

(=) Styling and build quality are nice, but the finish is delicate

(-) Compatibility list is severely cropped by Apple's special inline remote chip

Apple iPhone 3GS Review

Since the first day I was loaned the iPhone 3GS, I committed the crime of neglecting my personal phone – but on the plus side I could see my phone’s battery life lasting dramatically longer. This is probably the only phone that does not need an introduction, but just so you know, the only way to identify the physical difference between the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS is by looking at the text written on the bottom back of the device. While it may be obvious that a 32GB version is the iPhone 3GS, the only way to differentiate the 16GB devices is the color of the text – the older version appears grayish while the newer version have the same color as the logo above. In terms of functionality, the iPhone 3GS is much quicker than it’s predecessor – from opening applications to even loading websites using the Safari browser provided.

The improved 3MP camera is able to whip out some rather pleasant photos with the touch focus capability – you can make it focus wherever you want simply by touching the area. While the onscreen shutter button for the camera may not be the nicest shutter button to operate, it is pretty quick in snapping and saving your images, reducing the chances of blurry pictures caused by shaky hands. However, in low light conditions, the picture gets extremely noisy and there is no flash to smoothen things out. Even though the video function is rather new, it allows autofocus, something most phone camera lacks. The processor is also quick enough to capture movements and sound at the same time – some camera lags and movements that comes before sound can get very annoying. The only down side is it only autofocus once before capturing video and you can’t make it focus while recording.

Another new feature is using voice to control the iPhone 3GS – it’s not exactly a hands-free feature though; you still need to hold the phone to activate voice command. This is the feature that probably turned few heads towards me because people think that I’m talking to myself, but it was fun nonetheless. Unlike most programs that uses words that feels like you’re in a military school, the iPhone 3GS comes with simple normal everyday English commands such as “what song is this?”, “play songs by…”, and more that are very self explanatory

What impresses me the most is how quickly its GPS is able to point out your location – not 100% accurate, but good enough. Almost immediately after every time I launch Google Maps, it shows my whereabouts and together with the new Compass feature in iPhone 3GS, the map is able to automatically rotate itself according to the direction I am facing. Pretty useful, but I would prefer a GPS software that is able to tell me when to turn rather than having to check out the map myself – dangerous while driving and prone to snatch thieves when walking.

With the new OS, the iPhone 3GS is able to send and receive MMS without the help of other apps. The new cut, copy and paste function comes in rather handy especially if you wish to save something from a webpage or just the URL for future reference.

The phone is packaged with an earphone similar to the one used by the latest iPod Shuffle. With the earphone, the phone can be completely hands-free because it comes with a small controller that allows you skip between songs, play and pause, and with a built-in mic, voice control can even be activated on the earphone alone. The earphone may be small, but it does provide a very strong sound quality. The package also includes a guide and instruction leaflet available in both English and Malay. Apple also packed a cute little SIM eject tool – you can use a paperclip if you want, the one Apple gives is just very cute.

A prerequisite for those vain ones out there who wish to use an iPhone is loosing those fingernails – but seriously, who needs pretty nails when all people will be looking at is the iPhone? I used to think that if you don’t need the new features of the iPhone 3GS such as speed and voice control, it’ll be fine to live with the iPhone 3G, but the truth is, how can you know that you don’t need the features when you haven’t even tried it yet?

Top Cellphone Manufacturers

Source: Matt Buchanan (Gizmodo)

Compiling data from corporate reports and Bernstein estimates, iSmashphone produced this eye-popping chart showing how much profit the iPhone generates compared to the rest of the industry. A previous estimate was a little more conservative (though still crazy).

Zune HD Available for Pre-Order Today

Source: Dan Nosowitz (Gizmod0)

After months of leaks, rumors, and heavy anticipation, Microsoft is officially unveiling the last pieces of the Zune HD puzzle...which were already leaked. Release date is September 15th, but the 16/32GB Zune HD can be pre-ordered today.

So, just like we knew already, the Zune HD will be released September 15th in 16/32GB flavors, at a cost of $220 and $290, respectively. If you pre-order, you'll be able to nab the 16GB in black and the 32GB in platinum, but upon release, there'll be five different colors with 10 new engravings on Zune Originals. Based on the Zune's past, we'd bet those other colors are red, blue, and green (probably no return of the brown, unfortunately).

Microsoft isn't releasing the price of the accessories, like that HD-outputting dock we're all going to want, but luckily the rest of the current Zune lineup's accessories will also work with the Zune HD. The only other new detail is that select Best Buy outlets will have Zune HDs to play with on August 22nd and 23rd, which is good news if you haven't gotten to play with one yet.

So, not much new here, but it's good to see Microsoft is keeping up with the very cool Zune Originals store. Who else is going to have a hard time waiting a whole month? [Zune]
REDMOND, Wash. – Aug. 13, 2009 – Zune HD, the next generation of Microsoft Corp.'s portable digital media player, is available now for pre-order and is set to hit store shelves on Sept. 15. The player, available in 16GB and 32GB capacities, is the first touch-screen Zune and includes powerful playback technology to give you a different way to experience media on the go. Combined with unparalleled PC software and online services such as Zune Pass, Zune provides a rich and meaningful connection to music, videos, podcasts and more.

Pre-order Zune HD in 16GB Black and 32GB Platinum through http://www.zune.net/zunehd from Amazon.com, Best Buy,Walmart and Microsoft. Beginning September 15, at http://www.ZuneOriginals.net, both 16GB and 32GB capacities of Zune HD will be available in five different colors with the option to customize your player with one of 10 new engravings designed by guest artists.

WHAT: With a sleek and stylish design, Zune HD is the first to combine these features:
• Built-in HD Radio™ receiver. Allows you to listen to higher-quality sound than is available from traditional radio channels, as well as access additional programming through HD2 and HD3 multicast channels from many of your favorite local FM radio stations at no extra cost.
• HD video output capabilities. Supports HD video playback from the device through a premium HDMI A/V docking station (sold separately) directly to an HD TV in 720p, making it easy to enjoy better-than-DVD-quality video on your own big screen at home.

• OLED touch screen. Allows you to easily flip through music, movies and other content. The 3.3-inch glass screen and 16:9 widescreen format display (480x272 resolution) offer a premium viewing experience.

• Built-in Wi-Fi. Allows for browsing, streaming or downloading new music from Zune Marketplace.

• Internet browser. Full-screen Web browsing, optimized for the multi-touch screen with zoom-in and zoom-out gestures.

• Accessories, at home and on the road. Zune HD and AV Dock charges and syncs players while playing supported 720p HD videos on HDTVs. Play HD Radio, music and podcasts from your Zune HD device through your car stereo using the Zune Premium Car Pack.

WHY: Pre-order now to be one of the first to experience the new Zune HD's advanced design,innovative technology and rich multimedia capabilities powered by the NVIDIA Tegra™ chip ultra low-power HD processor.

PRICING: Zune HD 16GB: $219.99 (estimated retail price); Zune HD 32GB: $289.99 (estimated retail price)

WHEN: Pre-order starting Thursday, Aug. 13. Purchase in stores on Tuesday, Sept. 15.
WHERE ONLINE: http://www.zune.net/zunehd
WHERE IN STORE: Place a pre-order in person at Best Buy beginning August 16. If you want to sneak a peek, visit select stores in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C., areas on August 22 and 23.

Sony's New S-Series Walkman Specs, Pricing Leaked By French Retailer

Source: Danny Allen (Gizmodo)

Built-in speakers were obvious when we first glimpsed Sony's updated S-Series, but thanks to French retailer Materiel.net, it looks like the 2.4-inch (QVGA) screen players will come sized 8- or 16GB, and playback 42 hours of audio/6.4 hours video.
According to the site, they'll have a kickstand (pictured), built-in microphone, FM tuner (with 30 presets), and the speakers will be stereo. Format support includes MP3/WMA/AAC audio and H264/MP4/WMV 30fps video.
As very rough indication of what we might expect when the players make their way State-side, the 8GB NWZ-S544 is listed at €129 (about $185), and the 16GB NWZ-S545 for €149 (about $210). [Material via Sony Insider]