Samsung Omnia… In The Eye Of The Storm

In the world of mobile technology, November 21st 2008 belonged to the BlackBerry Storm and Verizon Wireless. But while the Storm caused a ruckus in long lines across the nation, even forcing police to restore order in a NYC Verizon store, there may have been a calm in the day that nobody noticed. The Samsung Omnia at Verizon Wireless could carefully be brewing up an excited launch of its own.

Employee training on the Verizon Omnia started (supposedly) on November 15th but it seems that the devices may already be in stores, albeit not on display. Signs are pointing to a release right around the corner on this sweet device with a 5MP camera, 240 x 400 pixels touchscreen display, accelerometer, GPS, Wi-Fi and more.

Here are a few pics of Verizon’s Samsung Omnia captured in-store:

Was the BlackBerry Storm not your cup of tea? Perhaps the Samsung Omnia will float your boat. But no matter which one you prefer, or even if you prefer neither, you have to admit that Verizon is making a strong push for Santa’s holiday dollar with 2 awesome phones right before the thick of the holiday shopping begins.

At least we hope…. Come on Omnia!

BlackBerry Storm Launch Roundup

Today was the day the BlackBerry Storm finally appeared in Verizon retail stores and it brought in a Cyclone of customers eager to whirl away with the first ever BlackBerry touchscreen. Unfortunately, they were in short supply.

In the Baltimore/DC area there was one uber-geek I know (ahem) who showed up uber early and was 8th in line out of about 35 people. There were only 10 in stock and others walked away with only a promise that their shiny new Storm would be shipped overnight delivery. Keep those fingers crossed.

But in New York, NY homey don’t play that, reports Reuters:

More than 200 people had waited at a Verizon store in mid-town Manhattan early in the morning, many of whom were turned away after it ran out of the new phones less than an hour after opening at 8 a.m. The angry customers caused a ruckus and police came to restore order.

Really? BlackBerry Storm fans caused a ruckus? I didn’t realize calculator watches had tazers equipped these days. All in good fun… All in good fun… if my New Every 2 was up I would have been one of the geeks in line for sure.

I wonder how many stores actually had enough Storm in stock to serve all the willing and able customers? How about you… did you get the Storm trouble free or were you one of the houligans at the back of the line plotting the riot?

Palm Treo Pro on Sprint, Verizon?

As of now its only a rumor but it looks like the Palm Treo Pro will be headed to Sprint on or around January 11th of 2009. Its basically the best Palm phone ever created although we’re not sure QUITE how much that says for it… Palm fans would say that means an awful lot.

And if Sprint gets the Palm Treo Pro, we can only speculate that a CDMA Verizon version would follow closely behind. The more carriers this gets on the better… for Palm, Palm fans and the carriers that acquire it.

[Via BGR]

BlackBerry Storm Reviews & Round Up

The BlackBerry Storm will officially be launched on Verizon Wireless tomorrow and tons of the top tech blogs are reporting their detailed reviews of the phone. We wanted to round up the top BlackBerry Storm reviews (seen below) and bring you a couple more details pertinent to the release.

Two extra tidbits that are worth noting:

And now onto the BlackBerry Storm reviews. Here are a bunch of great ones in no special order:

CNET Reviews the BlackBerryStorm
They give it a 3.5 out of 5 stars and say, “The RIM BlackBerry Storm may blow in a frenzy for Verizon Wireless subscribers wanting a touch screen similar to the Apple iPhone. However, die-hard texters, e-mailers, and corporate users may be better served with the BlackBerry Bold or other QWERTY device.”

Gizmodo Reviews the BlackBerry Storm
The title - Not Quite A Perfect Storm - concluding the innovative touchscreen isn’t enough to overcome some of its flaws and become the elite phone on the market. But it WILL have plenty of fans: “The Storm is a strong effort from RIM, but it’s not quite the killer phone that they or Verizon need it to be. It’s good—RIM clearly put a lot of thought into the design. But I think it fall short of what they were aiming for, and ultimately what all the hype is driving people to expect. Some of this is fixable: The damn thing needs to crash less often. But SurePress is not the end-all, be-all of touchscreen technologies—it’s not really an evolutionary step forward, even. The experience may be fairly refined, but more polish is still needed. Had this Storm been left to brew a bit longer, it would’ve been much more powerful.”

CrunchGear Reviews the BlackBerry Storm
Not an iPhone killer, but nevertheless a decent phone that should get plenty of normal phone enthusiasts excited about BlackBerry: “I won’t be ditching my Bold or iPhone 3G for the Storm, but if you’ve been waiting for it then I strongly encourage you to go to your local Verizon Wireless store and spend some time with it. I don’t think hardcore BlackBerry users will like it if you’re used to shortcuts and hot keys and hammering out text, but if you’re a casual user looking for a touch-screen device (which is the market RIM seems to be going after here) then go for it.”

Boy Genius Report Reviews the BlackBerry Storm
In perhaps the most glowing review, BGR says VZW customers would be crazy not to get the storm but questions whether people will/should switch carriers for the device: “Here’s our honest to god non-biased conclusion… this is the best phone to ever touch Verizon Wireless so far. If you’re a Verizon Wireless subscriber and a dumb phone won’t cut it, you’d be pretty air-headed to not pick this bad boy up above any other smartphone in Verizon’s lineup. It’s the “realest” touch screen Verizon has ever got. Not a piece of crap Voyager or Dare, but a real usable smartphone, depending on your needs.”

Walt Mossberg Reviews The BlackBerry Storm
WM from AllThingsD gave the Storm a spin and takes a very even, level headed approach to the review and conclusion: “Overall, the Storm is a very capable handheld computer that will appeal to BlackBerry users who have been pining for a touch-controlled device with a larger screen. And it offers yet another good option for anyone who is looking to buy one of the new, more powerful, pocket computers.”

Mobility Today 30-Minute Video Review
Wow… talk about covering it all… here it the most detailed and thorough video review you will find of the BlackBerry Storm on the web:

Vodafone Storm UK How To Videos
The CrackBerry Blog posted a series of videos about the Vodafone version of the BlackBerry Storm. They were first posted in the Vodafone Help Center but we’ve got to give CrackBerry the credit for digging them up.

Now take all this great knew knowledge instilled upon you and head over to the BlackBerry Storm Forum on MobileRoar to get all the conversation out of your system!

Motorola VE240 on Cricket & Metro PCS

It seems only the big carriers get love. What are gadget lovers in small rural areas to do when they want their phone fix from their own service provider? Weeping in the corner is usually one of the only options. But come out for a moment to check out the Motorola VE240.

Unfortunately, THIS is why, the smaller carriers don’t get enough love. The press release’s headline boasts of VALUE - a decidedly unsexy term that most customers on Cricket & Metro probably enjoy. Yet only 12 people in the nation would actually read the press release because they’re not reading gadget news online… they’re dilly dallying into their local store hoping to get a cheap phone that might even connect to the interwebs.

Some folks are forced to use smaller carriers… after all, sometimes you’re stuck with who ya got based on where ya live, right? If you’re one of those 12 people feel free to chime in on the comments, located after the full and depressing press release:

Motorola Introduces Value-Packed MOTO™ VE240 with Mobile Music and Hands-Free Convenience

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – Nov. 14, 2008 – Motorola, Inc. today announced MOTO™ VE240 will be arriving soon to Cricket Communications, Inc., (a wholly owned subsidiary of Leap Wireless International, Inc.), and to Metro PCS Communications, Inc. The new MOTO VE240 is a sleek candy-bar style device that brings cutting-edge features, such as MP3 and Stereo Bluetooth® Wireless Technology¹, at an attractive price point customers will love.

“MOTO VE240 will help consumers further enjoy the benefits offered by two of the nation’s top providers of unlimited wireless communications with its many features and great looks,” said Kathleen Finato, vice president of sales, Motorola. “We are delighted to offer the features most important to consumers with impressive quality at an unbelievable value.”

The full music experience is enjoyed with MOTO VE240’s MP3 player with a dedicated music key, 4GB of optional removable memory, high audio speakerphone and USB 2.0 full-speed technology for fast file transfers from a PC² (optional cable required). Through Stereo Bluetooth wireless technology, MOTO VE240 makes it easy for users to enjoy high-fidelity sound when paired with compatible Bluetooth-enabled headsets.

Availability
The VE240 will be available from Cricket Communications in the Tulsa market tomorrow, and all Cricket Communications and MetroPCS markets in the coming weeks. Consumers can obtain additional information at any local Cricket retail location and online at www.mycricket.com or any MetroPCS authorized dealer locations and company-owned retail locations and online at www.metropcs.com.

About Motorola
Motorola is known around the world for innovation in communications. The company develops technologies, products and services that make mobile experiences possible. Our portfolio includes communications infrastructure, enterprise mobility solutions, digital set-tops, cable modems, mobile devices and Bluetooth accessories. Motorola is committed to delivering next generation communication solutions to people, businesses and governments. A Fortune 100 company with global presence and impact, Motorola had sales of US $36.6 billion in 2007. For more information about our company, our people and our innovations, please visit http://www.motorola.com.

###

Maria Parra
Motorola, Inc.
Office: 954-723-5272
E-mail: maria.parra@motorola.com

Certain mobile phone features may not be available throughout the entire network or their functionality may be limited. All features, functionality and other product specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

¹This device supports Bluetooth OPP, FTP, BIP, BPP, HFP, and A2DP profiles. In order for Bluetooth devices to communicate with one another, they must utilize the same Bluetooth profile. To determine the profiles supported by other Motorola devices, visit www.motorola.com/bluetooth. For other devices, contact their respective manufacturer. Certain Bluetooth features including those listed may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices, or by certain wireless carriers. Contact your wireless carrier about feature availability and functionality.

² Network-dependent feature, not available in all areas. Airtime, data charges and/or additional charges may apply. Wireless e-mail functionality requires an e-mail account with wireless server capabilities.
MOTOROLA and the Stylized M Logo are registered in the US Patent & Trademark Office. 2008. Windows Mobile, Microsoft, SharePoint, Windows, Outlook, and MSN are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. © Motorola, Inc. 2008. All rights reserved.

[Via Motorola PR]

iPhone 3G Landing At Wal-Mart December 28th

It seems like a sin to say the words iPhone and Wal-Mart in the same sentence. The first is the definition of mobile beauty and grace while the latter is a warehouse of everything cheap and affordable. The two worlds will collide on December 28th when the iPhone 3G goes on sale at Wal-Mart.

This comes courtesy of BGR tipsters who claim to have an internal Wal-Mart memo that the website leaked a few hours ago. Here is that memo in its aledged entirety:

We are pleased to announce that Wal-Mart has reached agreement with Apple to offer iPhone 3G in Wal-Mart and Wal-Mart-managed Sam’s Club* Connection Centers nationwide beginning December 28, 2008.  AT&T will support Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club with the activation process for iPhone 3G, and we need all National Retail employees engaged to ensure a successful launch.

*NOTE: This product launch DOES NOT apply to SC Kiosks within Sam’s Club managed by Radio Shack.

Wal-Mart has communicated the following launch plans and execution timeline to their employees:

  • iPhone 3G will be available in-store only beginning 12/28/08
  • New and existing customers in good standing can purchase iPhone 3G with a 2 year contract
  • iPhone 3G transactions only will be processed through POS.com, not the kiosk

Execution Timeline:

  • 12/2 – 12/5:  AT&T / Wal-Mart MEM Classroom Training for Store Leads
  • 12/3 – 12/19:  AT&T In-Store Training
  • 12/26 – 12/27:  AT&T In-Store Refresher Training
  • 12/28: Nationwide Launch
  • 12/28 – 12/30:  Wal-Mart and AT&T War Room Support

You can’t blame Wal-Mart for pushing into the mobile space. BestBuy has done the same thing in a more logical and vigorous move but Wal-Mart seems to be following suit. Wal-Mart isn’t just the biggest dog on the block but also has the most girth in the galaxy. Sales at Wal-Mart are known to make or break companies… if you get blacklisted from Wal-Mart you might just be filing for bankruptcy.

That being said, this move has the potential to change up the mobile industry quite a bit. Perhaps not on the surface or immediately… but the more top level handsets Wal-Mart gets, and at discounts, the more shaky the traditional pipeline of products will get.

We heard these same rumors about the T-Mobile G1 and while the move came late… it did come. I would expect that this rumor is true as well. I wish we could dive into Wal-Mart’s revenue figures on these specific devices.

[Via BGR]

125 Different LG Phones Coming Next Year

This holiday season it will be hard for mobile phone shoppers to choose which gadget to call their own. Next year it will be even harder, courtesy of LG, who hopes to launch 125 different models next year. Not included in those 125 are the same phone with different colors or variations… we’re talking 125 bonafied phone launches… wow.

LG’s Vice President of Global Marketing doesn’t think 125 is that much, “We have to work with different operators in different countries, we don’t think it’s a big number.”

The United Kingdom for example, is set to get about 24 or 25 of those phones. How many of those 125 will be coming to the United States? Lets hope 100 or 101 - Ha! But in all honesty, complaining about having too many awesome phones to choose from would be a good problem to have. A burden that we would graciously accept.

So bring it on LG. Lauch 3 phones a week. Send us the press releases. Put review units in the mail. Try your darndest but we will never get sick of new phone launches… neverrrrrr… muahahhahahaha!

[Via Pocket Lint]

New Prada Phone Has A Wrist Watch!

Last year’s LG Prada Phone was a big hit so why not follow it up with a second one? That’s exactly what LG did only this time they added an accessory: a classy wrist watch that connects to your phone via bluetooth to display calls and texts, saving women the hassle of digging through their bags!

The Prada Phone itself costs 600 Euros and the Bluetooth Watch is an additional 299 but you can’t put a price on infinite style, can you? Unfortunately for Americans, there truly isn’t a price for style as the Prada phone won’t be available in the states. Another interesting thing to note is that in the press release, LG doesn’t refer to this phone as the Prada 2 but instead calls it “the latest edition of the Prada Phone by LG” repeatedly.

A few words on the phone’s features:

The handset’s user interface also receives a powerful improvement with LG’s latest active flash UI technology and haptic feedback on touch input enhancing the experience of the phone’s exclusive contents offerings. Dynamic upgrades to the software is well complimented by hardware extensions that include 3G capability with HSDPA up to 7.2 Mbps and advanced 5 megapixel camera featuring slow motion video recording and DivX playback. Other features include Wi-Fi, full HTML browser, and video calling capabilities.

And the Wrist Watch accessory:

This time around, LG and PRADA reinvents mobile trend with another stunning offering, the ‘PRADA Link’ (Model: LG-LBA-T950). Expected to release with the new handset, this sleek and elegantly packaged digital timepiece is a Bluetooth device that can remotely monitor phone calls as well as read full SMS text messages without having to extract the phone from a bag or pocket. Extending the handset’s luxurious exterior beyond the device itself is a new wearable type accessory; the PRADA Link not only revolutionizes the conventional methods of mobile communication, but adds practicality and convenience to a fashionable statement.

[Via LG PR]

Verizon’s Samsung Omnia Captured On Camera

The BlackBerry Storm is getting a lot of attention these days - and for good reason - but don’t forget that the Samsung Omnia will likely be launching on Verizon before the year is over. It was caught in the wild by an anonymous engadget tipster and the Visual Voicemail and VZNav icons all but prove its Verizon’s version.

Looks pretty good. Not that the Storm is cowering in fear or anything, but there are probably a bunch of phones that are doing just that. The Omnia is a very good looking WinMo phone with a 5MP cam and lots going for it.

We’re guessing a lot of VZW customers are choosing between the Storm and the Omnia… which will/would YOU choose?

[Via Engadget Mobile]

LG Incite Hits AT&T for $199

The first LG smartphone ever to hit the United States market is the LG Incite. It launched today on AT&T for $199, a pricepoint that puts it head to head with Apple’s iPhone. Can it hold its own? Here are some of the stats it’s packing:

So to WinMo or not to WinMo… that is the question. And while there is an endless sea of anti-WinMo supporters, the platform has its merits, too.

So who here will be gobbling this bad boy up for $199 to show off at Thanksgiving dinner?

[Via ATT]

BlackBerry Storm Hands-On Video Review

Here we’ve got one of the first in-depth 3rd party BlackBerry Storm review videos and we get a little tour of the hardware and brief overview of the software - a well done job indeed. HOWEVER, you’ll hear a pretty annoying interference noise at random parts of the video. That is the video and NOT your computer… took me awhile to figure that out so I thought I’d save you the trouble.

The BlackBerry Storm was spotted months and months ago and is finally rumbling into town. Can you believe that it will finally be available later THIS WEEK? Incredible…

Moto VE66 Comes, with $200K MotoWidget Contest

Motorola has just announced the “MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge” with $200,000 in prizes for developers who come up with intriguing ways to bring, “targeted, real-time data to mobile users”. The purpose of these widgets? “Whether delivering sports scores, stock tickers, or flight information, widgets represent a more efficient way for mobile users to access the mobile web”

The contest announcement came with the announcement of the Moto VE66, the very first Motorola handset to work in this widgetized framework. And the Moto VE66 isn’t a slouch of a phone either… it can hold its own and it all starts with a 5MP Camera.

And while the Camera is nice the widgets are the headliner of this here show. Motorola will inevitably include a number of default widgets for consumer use but how many 3rd party devs will hop on this train? With lots of money to be made with the iPhone and a 2nd Android Developers Challenge quickly approaching, will the Moto Dev Contest lure many developers?

Well, I suppose one of its draws is the fact that the competition probably won’t be as steep. Below are the 2 Press Releases for the Moto VE66 and MotoDev Contest:

Picture This: Motorola Announces MOTO VE66, Delivering Crystal Clear Calls, Brilliant Images and Pin-Sharp Music

MOTO VE66 sports audio-enhancing CrystalTalk™ technology and the first widget integration on a Motorola mobile device

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – Nov. 18, 2008 – today announced the arrival of MOTO VE66 with enhanced CrystalTalk™ audio technology, a 5-megapixel camera and MP3 player-like navigation for a 1-2-3 punch of great call quality, sharp pictures and an enjoyable music experience. The sleek, slider device also boasts the first widgets integration on a Motorola mobile device, which means you receive easier, more seamless access to what matters most – whether you crave sports scores, stock tickers or RSS feeds from your favorite blogs.

“The MOTO VE66 delivers on consumer’s demand for more personalized listening and imaging experiences on a mobile phone,” said Tracey Koziol, corporate vice president, Mobile Devices, Motorola. “With a diverse multi-media experience, the VE66 truly enables you to make a statement and express yourself on your terms.”

Hear and Be Heard
MOTO VE66 amplifies your conversations and helps reduce background noise with enhanced CrystalTalk technology, so virtually nothing comes between you and your calls. From more superior voice quality to personalized noise adaptation, CrystalTalk makes a noticeable difference in the clarity and intelligibility of conversations while in a noisy environment. VE66 further enhances the audio quality with the addition of a second microphone, which helps eliminate more ambient background noise from the call.

Click and Capture Like a Pro
MOTO VE66 captures crisp and clear images with ease, bringing out the inner photographer in everyone. The VE66 contains a number of features that you might expect to find on a dedicated digital camera. Pressing a dedicated camera key, the VE66 will quickly auto focus, activate an LED flash, if necessary, stabilize the image and reduce red eye – all to help to ensure that shots are of the highest print quality. Automatic color saturation delivers whiter whites, crisper blacks and colors true to life. Use the device’s landscape feature to view photos on the brilliant color display as desired.

Quickly Connect to Your Music and Web Updates
MOTO VE66 takes you where you want to go with the FastScroll™ one-touch navigation wheel which allows you to breeze through menus and content with speed and accuracy. And that’s not all that’s fast. The MP3 player with USB 2.0 enables high-speed access to data and downloads on your PC while the Wi-Fi connectivity makes browsing the Internet or sharing photos, audio or video files with friends a cinch1. And with integrated FM radio with RDS2 – to help you “name that tune” – you can discover new music while you’re in motion.

Get access to real-time information such as weather, sports scores, stock tickers, flight information, social media and news headlines with pre-loaded and downloadable1 widgets on MOTO VE66, the first widget integration on a Motorola phone.

And the contest?

Calling All Developers: Motorola Announces the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge

Open to all Web and Mobile Developers worldwide; Opportunity to win up to $200,000 in prizes and gain global exposure

SUNNYVALE, Calif. – November 18, 2008 – Motorola today announced the launch of the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge, a competition that allows developers around the globe to deliver the web without limits to mobile users.

This MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge is designed to encourage all developers to get actively engaged in the future of mobile through the smallest and most personal unit of power to access the mobile web. Through widgets, mobile and web developers alike can create flexible and easy-to-develop web applications that bring targeted, real-time data to mobile users. Whether delivering sports scores, stock tickers, or flight information, widgets represent a more efficient way for mobile users to access the mobile web and an outlet for developers to be creative with a lightweight footprint.

Also announced today is the MOTO VE66, the first Motorola mobile device equipped with a widgets framework, built to support pre-loaded and downloadable1 widgets. This capability will allow consumers to access relevant information from the Internet quickly and easily in real time, eliminating the need to actively browse websites to find regularly accessed information.

“Aligned with the principles of our MOTODEV developer network, the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge is all about expanding the virtually endless possibilities for tapping into the mobile lifestyle,” said Claudia Backus, Senior Director, Ecosystem, Motorola. “We’re excited that we can engage a whole new community of developers through widgets, which represent the next big leap in mobile from a software and user experience perspective.”

Open to all registered MOTODEV developers (non-MOTODEV developers can register quickly and at no charge at developer.motorola.com), the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge is accepting submissions beginning today and continuing until February 27, 2009. Challenge entries will be accepted in three main categories, including Best Widget in Category, Best Local Content, and Best Use of APIs, and judged in their relevant subcategory. All widgets submitted will be considered for the grand prize and title of Best Overall Widget. A panel of expert judges representing Motorola and the mobile industry will evaluate entries based on uniqueness, effective use of the platform, harmony of design, indispensability, and applicability. Category winners will be announced in the spring of 2009, and promotion winners will also be announced monthly.

Each category grand prize winner and first and second runner-up will enjoy a cash prize, global recognition of their application through Motorola, and recognition at CTIA Wireless 2009. In addition, all winners will receive a briefcase full of Motorola’s hottest handsets and accessories, and a plaque commemorating their achievement.

Interested participants should sign up to become a MOTODEV member and download MOTODEV Studio for WebUI. To become a member and experience the MOTODEV network, please visit developer.motorola.com.

To learn more about submitting a widget for consideration including official competition rules, please visit: developer.motorola.com/motodevchallenge.

About MOTODEV
MOTODEV is Motorola’s global developer and ISV program. MOTODEV combines Motorola developer initiatives into one seamless web site resource, giving developers simple access to virtually all things Motorola (from mobile devices to digital set-tops). The program helps foster innovation in application development and delivery by connecting developers with the resources they need most — tools, SDKs, and clearly defined go-to-market initiatives. And, with information and resources for a variety of products at their fingertips, developers can easily tap into new business opportunities and apply their talent across the full range of Motorola platforms.

[Via Motorola Press Releases]

BlackBerry Storm Unboxed By One-Handed Brit

While Americans and Canadians will have to wait a little while longer to get their hands on the BlackBerry Storm from their respective carriers, one lucky British gentlemen got his Vodafone Storm unboxing on to share will all of the eager, curious and anxious future Storm owners:

The banter with his wife is quite funny and he charges on through the unboxing despite her shouting to start it over because he had messed up or something. Perhaps she could have… I don’t know… worked the Camcorder for  him?

The whole unboxing is a bit unsteady since one hand is in the camcorder and the other…. tries…. slowly… but surely… to unbox… the Storm. I kind of enjoyed the suspense of the one-handedness, like watching a movie when you cheer on the hero.

Okay, perhaps that’s going a bit far. But still… nice to see a Storm unboxing vid.

HTC MAX 4G Caught On Video

Well looky what we have here… the recently rumored Russian ruby, AKA the HTC MAX 4G, got pinned down and thoroughly examined by none other than a bunch of Russian guys. Assuming you don’t speak Russian, you won’t be able to understand a single thing these folks say. But you CAN get clear, beautiful looks at quiet possibly the fastest phone on the planet:

Without the proper audio translation the video isn’t really THAT impressive. Just our honest opinion. The UI seemed to be kind of bogged down and slow… here is one example that seemed apparent. In the screen shot below, look at how small the menu options are in comparison to homeboy’s fingers! Makes mispressing your selection pretty likely, don’t you think?

And then they make the ever-popular move of comparing the HTC Max 4G to the iPhone 3G… at least visually. Here is a snap shot of them next to eachother. You can scroll ahead in the video to about 3:45 minutes in to see for yourself.

We’re not going to speculate too much for obviouis reasons… its just nice to see an awesome phone in action. Hopefully HTC will troubleshoot the phone, fix it up, pay attention to all the minor details, make if flawless and then ship it on over for use on Sprint’s XOHM/WiMax network. Or…. Clearwire’s 4G network thanks to Google Android?

We can dream, can’t we?

Samsung Eternity Now On AT&T, $149.99

Samsung has been busy, busy, busy. While they just wrapped up their launch of the Samsung Saga and Samsung Renown on Verizon Wireless they also just launched the Samsung Eternity for AT&T. If we had to guess, the name probably comes from how many hours the engineers feel like they’re working after churning out all these top of the line handsets!

Not too bad looking, is it? A lot of folks are calling it a toned down Omnia or Behold or a ramped up version of the Vu. Either way, its a good looking touch screen phone with some subtle differences between the above mentioned that you’ll want to know about.

Good news or bad news first? Bad news? Okay… it doesn’t have WiFi which is a deal breaker for some people. Some might consider this next one a plus but it doesn’t have Windows Mobile but instead features a proprietary UI/OS that - at least on the surface - doesn’t look too shabby. But you know how those go.

Now for the good news. Here is how AT&T explain the “good news” themselves: “Tap into your potential, without paying a fortune. This sleek touch- screen phone is loaded with entertainment apps and the latest features. At your fingertips: Mobile TV, AT&T Navigator GPS, Video Share, 3G Web browsing, 3 MP camera, on-screen full-touch QWERTY keyboard, music, accelerometer, and more. Plus, customizable color lighting accents and a clever vibration response to touch - all at a price that’s within reach.”

And the above little paragraph doesn’t even mention that the Eternity is a quad-band world phone. Maybe the name should be called the “Universally” instead of the “Eternity”. And in related news, we’re now hiring writers who excel in humor and phone naming.

[Via AT&T]

BlackBerry Storm is FREE in the UK

As if Americans didn’t get shafted enough when it comes to getting Grade A phones (ahem Touch HD) even the ones we DO get can make for a bittersweet occassion. Whereas Verizon Wireless customers eagerly await the opportunity to pay $199.99 on a 2-year contract and after rebate for the beloved BlackBerry Storm, folks in the UK will get the phone for FREE and only have to commit to 18 months on Vodafone.

That’s a little something I like to call disappointing depressing completely shitty. Sure, they’re different markets and all but can someone explain the huge difference in this math? A $20, $30… even $50 or $75 difference we could understand but $200 difference in price?

Perhaps the folks at Verizon Wireless are just smart, knowing there are hoards of people lined up to shell out whatever cash is required to take the Storm home. As a LG Voyager owner who pre-ordered, I would have to pay full retail price on the Storm which amounts to… $TooMuch for me. I’d probably be willing to absorb a $300 loss at the most for the phone but… doesn’t look like that’s going to happen.

Who else is feeling my pain?

[Via Vodafone]

Samsung Saga Now At Verizon Wireless

While it won’t be available at retail locations until December 1st, the Samsung Saga is now available online at VerizonWireless.com for all those interested… and there will likely be a good number. In addition to the Full QWERTY, touchscreen and world connectivity capablities, the Samsung Saga doesn’t look half bad either:

Very blue, eh? Its also got an optical mouse, WiFi and 2MP camera on its Windows Mobile 6.1 OS. Here is the official information from Samsung themselves:

Samsung Saga™
The Saga is a smartphone that features a 2.55″ advanced touch screen and a full QWERTY keyboard that provides business professionals with an easy way to send e-mail, text and instant messages. This productivity powerhouse is equipped with Quad Band GSM/GPRS capability, an optical mouse, Wi-Fi access (802.11 b/g), Opera mobile browser and Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional to keep customers connected to their offices when they are at home and abroad. Windows Mobile includes the Microsoft Office Mobile Suite so that customers can create and edit Word and Excel documents and view PowerPoint documents, as well as Microsoft Active Sync® 4.5 and Windows Mobile Device Center for Vista OS, which makes using the Saga around the globe feel as if customers had never left their offices. Other features include a 2.0 megapixel camera with NightShot, microSD™ card slot for up to 16 GB of external memory (sold separately), and Bluetooth® stereo headset support.
Additional features of the Saga include:

• Built-in stereo Bluetooth® wireless technology – supports profiles: mono and stereo headset, hands free (car kits), serial port, object push (vCard only), file transfer, basic print, phonebook access and human interface device
• Microsoft’s Voice Command technology for speech recognition
• Customizable user interface
• Voice Memo
• Windows Media Player Mobile
• Organizer – alarm, calculator, calendar, notes, task list and today screen
• TTY-capable
• Dimensions: 2.44″ x 4.88″ x .53″
• Weight: 4.59 ounces
• Display: 320 x 320 pixel, 65K TFT, 2.55” active screen area and touch-sensitive LCD display

For $199 on a 2-year contract, we’re sure there will be plenty of hip, globe-trotting professionals who take their turn with the Saga.

We should also mention that Samsung also released the “Renown” which you’re much less likely to Remember… wanna see why? Here is the latter next to the former:

Told ya. A less than intriguing hunk of brown with awkward clock and average specs. But to be fair, we’ll hook you up with the info on the Samsung Renown as well… we realize that not everyone is a cell phone snob like us:

Samsung Renown™
The Renown showcases mobile technology in a fashionable flip form factor. The Renown comes with a number of features to help customers capture special moments on their trips abroad, including a 2.0 megapixel camera with NightShot to enhance the camera’s capabilities in dark environments; a camcorder; and video, picture, text and mobile IM messaging options. The Renown also supports Verizon Wireless’ V CAST Music with Rhapsody and V CAST Video services in the U.S. V CAST Music with Rhapsody lets customers transform their Renown into an MP3 player and allows customers to access more than 5 million songs and purchase full songs over-the-air. They can also download the master copy of songs to their PCs, free of digital rights management software; and sync favorite tracks, albums and playlists from their PCs to their phones using a USB cable. Before traveling internationally, customers can load up their Renown with their favorite songs and listen to their music on long flights. With V CAST Video, customers can download or stream video clips from the best names in news, sports and entertainment.
Additional features of the Renown include:

• Global Mode – including Quad Band GSM capability
• Multiple messaging options (text messaging only for use abroad)
• 2.0 megapixel camera with NightShot
• Media Center-capable – downloadable games, ringtones, wallpapers, location-based services and more
• Visual Voice Mail
• Built-in stereo Bluetooth wireless technology – supports profiles: mono and stereo headset, hands free (car kits), serial port, object push (vCard only), file transfer, basic print and phonebook access
• Organizer – alarm, calculator, calendar, notes, task list and today screen
• microSD expansion memory up to 8 GB (card purchased separately)
• TTY-capable
• Dimensions: 1.95” x 3.87” x .69”
• Weight: 4.05 ounces
• Display:
o Main LCD: 240 x 320 pixel, 262K color TFT
o Sub LCD: 96 x 96 pixel, 262K color TFT

[Via Samsung]

HTC Touch HD Reviews Pour In

Folks in the United States can only drool at the HTC Touch HD, one of the most beautiful and powerful devices on the planet but one that currently isn’t equipped with the technology compatible with American carriers. And it never will, either.

Tech enthusiasts worldwide have speculated, hoped and probably even prayed that HTC hooks the Touch HD up with Android and brings it to the shores of the Red, White and Blue. Early on HTC commented that the phone would never reach American shores because by the time they engineered it to work in the US the technology would be old news. However, the ridiculous amount of interest in a potential HTC Touch HDroid has to be forcing them to rethink this.

But the future is the future and now is now. And right now, we’ve got a bunch of reviews of the CURRENT Touch HD that found its way to the United Kingdom. The overwhelming conclusion is that the HTC Touch HD has amazing potential with a beautiful screen but is dragged down by Windows Mobile, a slow UI and not enough support for various video formats.

Sounds to us like a 2nd generation Touch HD equipped with Android would fit the bill rather perfectly.

Here are 3 early reviews:

Alright Google and Gang (OHA)… time to harass, heckle and stalk HTC until they submit to putting an Android on an improved Touch HD!

HTC MAX 4G: First WiMax Phone

Remember how XOHM, Sprint’s lightning fast WiMax branded 4G network, was launched in Baltimore only a month ago? Well in other countires - like Russia - the WiMax network has a little more reach and maturity. And so it is these lucky folks who will get the first ever WiMax phone… the HTC MAX 4G.

As if we’re not jealous enough that they get a 4G WiMax device, they have to go and get HTC to manufacture it. The company is on a tremendous roll, churning out sexy and high powered handsets month after month after month.

Like the Touch HD, HTC doesn’t think that manufacturing this phone is worth the effort in the United States for now. It looks like we’ll have to wait some time before somethign as beautiful and powerful as this reach our shores. And since XOHM/WiMax is the only domestic 4G network at the moment… it looks like we’ll be waiting for Sprint… which could take forever.

Check the specs Americans will be missing out on:

[Via MobileCrunch]

BlackBerry Storm Officialized at $199, Nov 21st

We know… we know… we just won’t shutup about the BlackBerry Storm. Can you blame us? Nope. In fact, you’re probably one of the 10 billion people egging us on because this phone simply promises to be that HOT. And now it seems officially official that on November 21st the Storm can be yours for a mere $199.99!

Various dates and prices have been thrown around but BGR has (alledgedly) confirmed that the November 21st date goes for ALL channels… web/tele/retail/etc… and that there will be MORE than enough product to go around. So, chances are you won’t face a “sorry we’re sold out” situation but don’t blame us if you take that chance.

Not to mention, its amazing what a little “we’ll have plenty in stock” changing to “they go so popular we sold more than we expected and they are gone!” can do for supply/demand. Alright guys, I’m considering leaving at lunchtime - today - and waiting in line.

[Via BGR]

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