Engadget Mobile

Engadget Mobile http://www.engadgetmobile.com Engadget Mobile http://www.engadgetmobile.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget Mobile http://www.engadgetmobile.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Orange lands broad iPhone distro deal too]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/16/orange-lands-broad-iphone-distro-deal-too/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/16/orange-lands-broad-iphone-distro-deal-too/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/16/orange-lands-broad-iphone-distro-deal-too/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Orange, Apple

We'll make this brief. Orange spokesperson Therese Wenger told the SDA news agency that it has secured rights to release the iPhone (3G version, presumably) in Switzerland and more than 10 other countries -- take that Swisscom! Other countries include Austria, Belgium, Poland, Portugal, and Romania. And France of course where it's already on sale. See, that was quick and leaves room for a dozen or so other iPhone related announcements today.

Update: Official Orange press release now out.

[Via 20minuten, thanks Pascal M. and Pae]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphoneappleaustriabreaking newsBreakingNewsiphoneorangepolandportugalromaniaswitzerlandFri, 16 May 2008 04:14:00 EST<![CDATA[RIM prepping BlackBerry Media Sync for iTunes transfers]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/15/rim-prepping-blackberry-media-sync-for-itunes-transfers/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/15/rim-prepping-blackberry-media-sync-for-itunes-transfers/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/15/rim-prepping-blackberry-media-sync-for-itunes-transfers/#commentsFiled under: Software, RIM, ATT, GSM, EDGE, Apple

Everyone knows that nobody buys a BlackBerry for its musical prowess, right? Au contraire, dearest email addict. RIM is currently working up a new application for BlackBerry smartphones that will "transfer your desktop iTunes music files" to your BB for those rare moments when you can actually kick back and enjoy the soothing sounds of Rogue Wave. Interestingly, we're not told whether BlackBerry Media Sync is being crafted specifically for the upcoming Bold, and we're also left to wonder when it'll actually be released. Patience is a virtue -- at least that's the word heard through the grapevine.

[Via CNET]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9000appleBlackBerryBlackBerry Media SyncBlackberryMediaSyncitunesitunes syncItunesSyncMedia SyncMediaSyncmusicsyncThu, 15 May 2008 09:48:00 EST<![CDATA[O2 to announce 3G iPhone in "the coming weeks"]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/o2-to-announce-3g-iphone-in-the-coming-weeks/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/o2-to-announce-3g-iphone-in-the-coming-weeks/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/o2-to-announce-3g-iphone-in-the-coming-weeks/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, O2, Apple

It's all starting to come together. After getting a general ballpark courtesy of AT&T store employee vacations last week, and a hint of "next month" on Monday, O2's own CEO is promising a 3G iPhone announcement in "the coming weeks." Which, let's face it, doesn't really put us any closer to pinpointing the exact date, but does make us feel a bit better about the 1000 "iPhone 3G in June or life isn't worth living anymore" t-shirts we just bought on CafePress.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphoneappleiphoneo2Wed, 14 May 2008 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Swisscom to launch iPhone in Switzerland -- 3G, GPS, mobile TV, video conferencing rumored]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/official-swisscom-to-launch-iphone-in-switzerland-3g-gps-m/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/official-swisscom-to-launch-iphone-in-switzerland-3g-gps-m/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/official-swisscom-to-launch-iphone-in-switzerland-3g-gps-m/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Apple

So there was a little rumor bouncing about yesterday which claimed that Swisscom would land the iPhone. Today, Swisscom confirmed the deal while saying little else. What's interesting then is what the rest of the rumor, started by the leading Swiss newspaper, Le Matin, had to say. Namely, the 3G iPhone will be on sale in Switzerland this summer (on sale in the US by June) offering 2-way video chats, mobile TV and GPS navigation all powered by an even beefier processor. That certainly sounds like the same 3G iPhone we're expecting to pop at WWDC now doesn't it?

[Via MacPrime, thanks Stefan R.]

Read -- Le Matin rumor
Read -- Swisscom teaser

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphonegpsiphonerumorswisscomswitzerlandWed, 14 May 2008 03:16:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Touch Diamond vs. iPhone, fight!]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/13/htc-touch-diamond-vs-iphone-fight/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/13/htc-touch-diamond-vs-iphone-fight/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/13/htc-touch-diamond-vs-iphone-fight/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, HTC, Apple

Our brethren over at Engadget Chinese had the chance to size-up HTC's new Windows Mobile 6.1 Touch Diamond with Apple's iPhone this morning in Taiwan. We have to admit, HTC's CEO was dead-on when he claimed that the Diamond's "not too big, not too small" after seeing it side-by-side with Microsoft's left-coast nemesis. Hit the read link for bigger pics.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applediamondhtciphonetouch diamondTouchDiamondTue, 13 May 2008 06:49:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's activator getting jacked by iPhones that are never activated]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandts-activator-getting-jacked-by-iphones-that-are-never-activa/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandts-activator-getting-jacked-by-iphones-that-are-never-activa/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandts-activator-getting-jacked-by-iphones-that-are-never-activa/#commentsFiled under: ATT, Apple

The effect of unlocked iPhones on the wireless industry is perhaps wider than anyone could've guessed, with Synchronoss -- the company that handles AT&T's activations -- reporting that its growth expectations for 2008 have been visibly impacted by the gap between iPhones sold and iPhones activated. The problem stems from the fact that Synchronoss is paid only for iPhones that actually end up tied into AT&T, and since the unlocking phenomenon is pretty widespread within the iPhone community, the company's feeling the heat. Making matters worse, they've lost the premium they get for activating iPhones versus other AT&T devices in the first quarter, so all told, it's a gloom-and-doom report. Maybe they can make some of that cash back by... oh, selling unlocked iPhones. We're just trying to help out here.

[Via Silicon Alley Insider]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activationappleattiphonesynchronossMon, 12 May 2008 22:19:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T says "iPhone Black" means nothing, gunman acted alone]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandt-says-iphone-black-means-nothing-gunman-acted-alone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandt-says-iphone-black-means-nothing-gunman-acted-alone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandt-says-iphone-black-means-nothing-gunman-acted-alone/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, ATT, Apple

We've just received an official statement from AT&T regarding the presence of an "iPhone Black" on its model selector earlier today: "The reference to 'iPhone Black' was simply a temporary placeholder used over the weekend for a scheduled catalog update. It was meant to temporarily distinguish the various iPhone models-4GB, 8GB and 16GB-but was never reassigned. We're changing the site now." Makes total sense, right? Three models of iPhone, two placeholders: iPhone and iPhone Black. You know, because "Black" has so much to do with memory capacity, and is easier to remember than 4, 8, or 16GB -- never mind the fact that we have good intel suggesting that the next-gen device is glossy black.

Also, AT&T, we know those cigarettes are yours, so you can stop telling us you were "just carrying them for a friend." We're not stupid, you know.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleattiphoneiphone blackIphoneBlackMon, 12 May 2008 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T listing "iPhone Black" model, O2 gets the original back in stock]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandt-listing-iphone-black-model-o2-gets-the-original-back-in/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandt-listing-iphone-black-model-o2-gets-the-original-back-in/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandt-listing-iphone-black-model-o2-gets-the-original-back-in/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, ATT, O2, Apple

Good news and bad news on the imminent 3G iPhone front. O2 apparently got another batch of 16 giggers in stock, since it's currently accepting orders, while the 8GB remains out of stock, and both phones remain unavailable on the US and UK Apple Stores. More encouraging, however, is the new listing of an "iPhone Black" model on AT&T's account management site. There's nothing else on the site to hint at specs or release or whether this is indeed the upcoming 3G iPhone, but it does fall in line with the word we have on a glossy black back for the much anticipated phone. Whether all this means we have weeks or months to wait is anyone's guess, but there are plenty of encouraging signs out there for the true believers to cling onto.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphoneattbreaking newsBreakingNewsiphoneiphone blackIphoneBlackMon, 12 May 2008 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's bringing free wifi to the iPhone -- once it finishes wigging out]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandts-bringing-free-wifi-to-the-iphone-once-it-finishes-wigg/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandts-bringing-free-wifi-to-the-iphone-once-it-finishes-wigg/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/atandts-bringing-free-wifi-to-the-iphone-once-it-finishes-wigg/#commentsFiled under: ATT, Apple

Hey, do you guys want to hear our AT&T impression? It's pretty awesome. Okay, okay, here it goes: "Great news, we're offering free WiFi to iPhone users! Wait, no we're not. Yes we are! Oh, no, wait, cancel that." Pretty spot-on, right? Sadly, it looks like we might need something else to rag on shortly, since an AT&T spokesman started clearing the air with the New York Times late last week. The bottom line -- for the moment, anyway -- is that AT&T has "long planned" to offer up its WiFi hotspots as a free value-add for the iPhone and all of the other WiFi-equipped devices in its arsenal, but that the brief enabling of the feature thus far and the mention on AT&T's site were results of human error, and the company isn't prepared at this point to commit to an actual launch date or details on how the service will work. Hey, at least we know we're not just suffering from some brutal hallucinations now.

[Via TUAW]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleattiphonewifiMon, 12 May 2008 03:17:00 EST<![CDATA[SingTel ropes iPhone distro in Singapore, India, Australia, and Philippines]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/singtel-ropes-iphone-distro-in-singapore-india-australia-and/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/singtel-ropes-iphone-distro-in-singapore-india-australia-and/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/12/singtel-ropes-iphone-distro-in-singapore-india-australia-and/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Apple

Singapore Telecommunications (aka SingTel) announced that it's secured agreements to distribute the iPhone in Singapore (on SingTel Mobile) and its partly-owned subsidiaries in Australia (on Optus), India (on Bharti Group), and the Philippines (on Globe Telecom). Vodafone's also distributing the iPhone in India and Australia though, so we'll have to wait until later this year to find out who gets to shoot first.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebreaking newsBreakingNewsinternationaliphonesingtelMon, 12 May 2008 02:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple finally setting its legal sights on the HiPhone?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/11/apple-finally-settings-its-legal-sights-on-the-hiphone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/11/apple-finally-settings-its-legal-sights-on-the-hiphone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/11/apple-finally-settings-its-legal-sights-on-the-hiphone/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Apple

Oh, there are plenty of bad Chinese iPhone knockoffs out there, but the HiPhone may be the reigning champion these days -- so it kind of seemed like a matter of time before Apple loosed the hounds on distributors of the device. We don't have confirmation or proper human translation of the above legal notice, but it would appear Apple's European counsel Bird & Bird has delivered at least one notice to an unnamed distributor threatening €25,000 in damages (and €15,000 in legal fees) for HiPhone sales. Hardly the case of the century, but we'll let you know if we hear anything.

[Thanks, Ricardo]

Update: Reader Ben W hooked us up with a translation of the letter; we can't vouch for its veracity, but it's posted after the break if you want to check it out. Thanks, Ben!

Continue reading Apple finally setting its legal sights on the HiPhone?

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hiphoneiphonelegalSun, 11 May 2008 04:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Newsflash! Firmware 2.0 hints suggest Apple might be working on a 3G iPhone]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/10/newsflash-firmware-2-0-hints-suggest-apple-might-be-working-on/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/10/newsflash-firmware-2-0-hints-suggest-apple-might-be-working-on/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/10/newsflash-firmware-2-0-hints-suggest-apple-might-be-working-on/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Software, HSDPA, UMTS, Apple, OS X

You'll never believe this, but it looks like Cupertino might be getting ready to drop a bomb this summer -- a 3G bomb, in fact! The latest beta release of firmware 2.0 for the iPhone has apparently revealed a preference screen that allows users of the new model to disable the 3G radio and fall back to GPRS / EDGE because the faster service "decreases battery life." Gotta pay to play, as they say. The ability to disable 3G service in favor of improved standby performance is a pretty common one in modern phones, so we're not surprised to see it here -- just a little disappointed that Apple hasn't incorporated enough fairy dust to magically make the problem go away.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gapplefirmwarefirmware 2.0Firmware2.0iphoneSat, 10 May 2008 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple Store's US and UK sites run dry of iPhones, 3G imminent?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/10/apple-stores-us-and-uk-sites-run-dry-of-iphones-3g-imminent/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/10/apple-stores-us-and-uk-sites-run-dry-of-iphones-3g-imminent/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/10/apple-stores-us-and-uk-sites-run-dry-of-iphones-3g-imminent/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Apple

If we saw the typical "Ships in 1-2 weeks" here or whatever, we wouldn't be sounding an alarm, but something is going on here. Both Apple's US and UK online stores are joining the O2 choir and are now reporting the iPhone as "currently unavailable" -- no 8GB, no 16GB, no nothing. It seems that Apple either significantly underestimated demand for the 2.5G models ahead of the 3G release that's still a few weeks (or months) down the road, or the 3G model is a whole heck of a lot closer than we could've imagined. Is anyone suddenly having a nasty case of "I only want what I can't have" syndrome and regretting that they didn't order one of these bad boys a day or two ago?

[Via GadgetKing, thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple storeAppleStoreiphoneukusSat, 10 May 2008 11:36:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T WiFi access now listed as "included" with iPhone]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/08/atandt-wifi-access-now-listed-as-included-with-iphone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/08/atandt-wifi-access-now-listed-as-included-with-iphone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/08/atandt-wifi-access-now-listed-as-included-with-iphone/#commentsFiled under: ATT, GSM, EDGE, Misc, Apple, OS X

We're not exactly sure what was going on with that whole on-again / off-again love affair with iPhones having gratis access to AT&T WiFi hotspots, but we're content with letting bygones be bygones. On the slightly tweaked iPhone "Plans" page, the carrier now lists "Access to AT&T WiFi hotspots" as an included feature along with call forwarding, 3-way calling and Caller ID. Sure, it's not a bona fide press release, but same difference, right?

[Via MacRumors]

Update: Oh, ha, it's gone again. We have a feeling it'll be back soon enough though.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessappleatthotspotinternetiphonestarbuckswifiThu, 08 May 2008 08:23:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone is good and done in the UK -- until the 3G version, anyway [updated]]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/08/iphone-is-good-and-done-in-the-uk-until-the-3g-version-anywa/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/08/iphone-is-good-and-done-in-the-uk-until-the-3g-version-anywa/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/08/iphone-is-good-and-done-in-the-uk-until-the-3g-version-anywa/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, O2, Apple

The headline kind of says it all, but if you weren't already sure enough that the first gen iPhone's stint in the UK was coming to a close, O2's pushing to make things crystal clear. It's hard to imagine both companies are going to just stop selling such a high profile device for too long, but clearly we're all still in the dark as to when its 3G replacement will officially be out.

[Thanks, Keith]

Update: While European carriers are running out of stock left and right, it seems Apple Stores in the UK and elsewhere still have iPhones -- for now.

Update 2: Okay, and now O2's page is showing that the iPhone is once again available. Temporary glitch or preparatory? Beats us, but if you want a 16GB device, it's apparently still up for grabs.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphonecanceledeoliphoneukThu, 08 May 2008 02:26:00 EST<![CDATA[More "leaked" 3G iPhone shots hit the web]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/more-leaked-3g-iphone-shots-hit-the-web/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/more-leaked-3g-iphone-shots-hit-the-web/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/more-leaked-3g-iphone-shots-hit-the-web/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Apple

For those that need to be in the know about the very latest supposedly-leaked 3G iPhone shots that hit the web this week, we've got you covered -- but we're not convinced, especially of the device on the right. The shots on the left do at least seem to be crafted around those supposed size and shape leaks we saw the other day though, so bonus points there for playing into another current rumor to rack up a small bit of credibility. Still, in our best Rick James voice, Photoshop's a hell of a tool.

Read - Left four shots appear on Chinese phone forum
Read - Shot on the right from AppleInsider

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iphonerumorWed, 07 May 2008 17:26:00 EST<![CDATA[TIM says it's bringing the iPhone to Italy, too]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/tim-says-its-bringing-the-iphone-to-italy-too/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/tim-says-its-bringing-the-iphone-to-italy-too/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/tim-says-its-bringing-the-iphone-to-italy-too/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, GSM, Apple

Breaking with the longstanding tradition of granting exclusivity to the carrier in each country that can withstand Apple's vice-like iPhone profit sharing pressure, Italy's Telecom Italia has issued a super-brief statement simply letting the world know that "it has signed a deal with Apple to bring the iPhone to Italy later this year." No details, no launch date, no word on whether it'll be 3G (our money says yes) -- but either way, this means Italian customers will have the option of not one, but two carriers from which to get their Apple fix since Vodafone will be hauling in the device as well. A little competition never hurt anyone, right?

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebreaking newsBreakingNewsiphoneitalytelecom italiaTelecomItaliatimWed, 07 May 2008 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple's iPhone coming to Latin America on America Movil]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/apples-iphone-coming-to-latin-america-on-america-movil/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/apples-iphone-coming-to-latin-america-on-america-movil/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/07/apples-iphone-coming-to-latin-america-on-america-movil/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, GSM, EDGE, Apple, OS X

Just a day after we heard that Vodafone was taking the iPhone on a world tour, in comes word that Apple's darling will be headed to Latin America via America Movil. We aren't told if the deal is one of exclusive nature, nor were we given a specific launch date, but residents of 16 countries in Latin America will have their shot at latching onto an iPhone sometime "this year." Huzzah!

[Thanks, Jesus]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>America MovilAmericaMovilappleexpansionglobaliphonelatin americaLatinAmericamexicoWed, 07 May 2008 12:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked AT&T memo points to 3G iPhone release in late June?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/leaked-atandt-memo-points-to-3g-iphone-release-in-late-june/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/leaked-atandt-memo-points-to-3g-iphone-release-in-late-june/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/leaked-atandt-memo-points-to-3g-iphone-release-in-late-june/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, ATT, Apple

A friendly neighborhood AT&T employee forwarded us a purported memo for AT&T retail store employees that could provide a rather telling clue about the next-gen iPhone's release date this summer if it proves true. A similar memo went out last year around this time requesting that employees not take any vacations between June 15 and July 15, and this year those dates are June 15 and July 12 -- which seems suspiciously early, but that's what the man says. The memo cites "an exciting Summer Promotional Launch," which we're guessing doesn't refer to some new Motorola flip phone. Also telling is the fact that employees might be able to take some vacations later within that window when things die down a bit, which seems to imply that Apple could be aiming for a launch date right around the iPhone's one year anniversary of June 29th. How romantic.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphoneiphonerumorTue, 06 May 2008 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[T-Mobile admits that 3G iPhone will be tested in Austria]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/t-mobile-admits-that-3g-iphone-will-be-tested-in-austria/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/t-mobile-admits-that-3g-iphone-will-be-tested-in-austria/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/t-mobile-admits-that-3g-iphone-will-be-tested-in-austria/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, T-Mobile, GSM, UMTS, Apple, OS X

derStandard, the same publication that announced that the iPhone would be sailing into Austria via T-Mobile is now reporting that the same carrier will be testing the 3G iPhone in the aforesaid country. During a press conference in Vienna, T-Mo Austria reportedly affirmed that a UMTS version of Apple's handset would "soon be available," and that Austria would be the "testing ground" for the new mobile -- not to mention "among the first countries in the world with the UMTS iPhone." Furthermore, bigwigs stated that "more flexible" offers would be made available, but details beyond that were scant.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3g iphone3gIphoneaustriaiphone 2Iphone2t-mobileumtsTue, 06 May 2008 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Vodafone releasing iPhone in Australia, Italy, India, and seven other countries]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/vodafone-releasing-iphone-in-australia-italy-india-and-seven/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/vodafone-releasing-iphone-in-australia-italy-india-and-seven/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/vodafone-releasing-iphone-in-australia-italy-india-and-seven/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Vodafone, Apple

Vodafone's just got a tiny, minor, insignificant announcement to make this morning: it's signed with Apple to sell the iPhone in ten markets, including Australia, the Czech Republic, Egypt, Greece, Italy (so much for Telecom Italia), India, Portugal, New Zealand, South Africa and Turkey. Expect the phone later this year -- that's all we know for now. Score one (or ten?) for Voda.

[Thanks, iB3nji]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsinternationaliphoneTue, 06 May 2008 02:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Kensington unveils Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone / iPod]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/05/kensington-unveils-battery-pack-and-charger-for-iphone-ipod/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/05/kensington-unveils-battery-pack-and-charger-for-iphone-ipod/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/05/kensington-unveils-battery-pack-and-charger-for-iphone-ipod/#commentsFiled under: Peripherals, Apple

Sure, there are already a handful of options out there for extending the life of your iPhone / iPod battery, but since when have we been ones to gripe about a little competition? Kensington has just introduced a standard and miniature version of its Battery Pack and Charger for iPhone / iPod, which unsurprisingly provides juice to your device's internal battery and can be recharged simultaneously. As you could likely guess, the only differences between the two contraptions are the size, price and battery life; the 0.22-pound standard model extends play time to up to 100 hours (music) / 6 hours (talk), while the even tinier mini version livens things up for another 30 hours (music) / 3 hours (talk). Each is available now for $69.99 / $49.99.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybattery packBatteryPackchargeriphoneipodipod accessoryIpodAccessoryKensingtonMini Battery Pack and ChargerMiniBatteryPackAndChargerMon, 05 May 2008 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone firmware 2.0 adds Chinese handwriting recognition, Newton sweats]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/05/iphone-firmware-2-0-adds-chinese-handwriting-recognition-newton/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/05/iphone-firmware-2-0-adds-chinese-handwriting-recognition-newton/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/05/iphone-firmware-2-0-adds-chinese-handwriting-recognition-newton/#commentsFiled under: Software, Apple, OS X

Screen shots posted on Chinese site wretch.cc allege that iPhone firmware 2.0 has added support for Chinese handwriting recognition in addition to a revamped (albeit non-recognition) Japanese interface. While that's still light years from an Apple admission that not everyone is in love with the on-screen keyboard, it's one small step toward functionality that seems to make boatloads of sense -- in any language -- given the phone's generously proportioned touchscreen and its reluctant but unavoidable nomination as the Newton's spiritual successor. What isn't clear is how folks are expected to draw characters, seeing how there's no provision for an on-board stylus, the entire interface is designed for finger use, and we don't see many owner rushing out for a Pogo. However Apple intends for this feature to be used, the implementation looks pretty hot, capable of operating in both portrait and landscape modes. Sadly, it seems that Chinese is the one and only language supported at the moment; sure you don't want to let everyone in on the Graffiti-esque retro fun here, guys?

[Via Mac Rumors]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachinesefirmwarefirmware 2.0Firmware2.0handwritinghandwriting recognitionHandwritingRecognitioniphoneiphone 2Iphone2recognitionMon, 05 May 2008 13:17:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T reveals iPhone Text Accessibility Plan for hearing impaired]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/02/atandt-reveals-iphone-text-accessibility-plan-for-hearing-impaired/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/02/atandt-reveals-iphone-text-accessibility-plan-for-hearing-impaired/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/02/atandt-reveals-iphone-text-accessibility-plan-for-hearing-impaired/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Messaging, ATT, GSM, EDGE, Apple, OS X

Although AT&T has had a specialized plan for the deaf and hard of hearing for some time now, the iPhone has been unfortunately unable to take advantage. No longer will that be the case, as said carrier has just implemented the Text Accessibility Plan for iPhone, which provides unlimited texting, unlimited data usage, $0.40 per minute pay-per-use voice and Visual Voicemail. Granted, the iPhone TAP does cost $40 ($10 more than the vanilla TAP), but you are getting limitless texts (versus 5,000) and Visual Voicemail thrown in -- not that those inclusions really warrant the extra Hamilton. Nevertheless, those with adequate documentation can get their iPhone on the plan right now, just click the read link for details / instructions.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleattdeafDisabilitiesdisabledhandicaphandicappediphonesmstaptextText Accessibility Plantext messagingTextAccessibilityPlantextingTextMessagingweb browsingWebBrowsingFri, 02 May 2008 10:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Next-gen iPhone spotted in the wild?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/02/next-gen-iphone-spotted-in-the-wild/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/02/next-gen-iphone-spotted-in-the-wild/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/02/next-gen-iphone-spotted-in-the-wild/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, ATT, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, Apple, OS X

Well here's an interesting one. French iPhone blog iPhon.fr got these pics from an anonymous and unverified source, and while there's no way of telling if the shots are legit, they certainly have a truthy ring to them. They follow what we know so far about the shape, size and color of the upcoming 3G iPhone, and while there's always the possibility of knockoff, a Photoshop job, or some other evil plot to mislead us, we're certainly not going to discount these shots entirely in the runup to iPhone's second coming.

[Thanks, Janvier]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphonebreaking newsBreakingNewsiphonerumorFri, 02 May 2008 07:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Case manufacturers getting early 3G iPhone size specs?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/case-manufacturers-getting-early-3g-iphone-size-specs/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/case-manufacturers-getting-early-3g-iphone-size-specs/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/case-manufacturers-getting-early-3g-iphone-size-specs/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Apple

Next-gen iPhone rumors are swirling fast and furious, but the latest out of iLounge matches up with what we've heard: the 3G iPhone will be glossy black and slightly thicker than before. iLounge says that Apple has once again provided overseas case manufacturers with details of a new device, and they've mocked up the image above as an illustration, with the old model on the left and top for comparison. There's not much to go on, but we're curious as to what that additional front-mounted sensor is, and we know a few people that would kill for a red iPhone. iLounge says that developers and case manufacturers believe the specs to be correct and have already started work on accessories, but only Steve (and a couple hundred Apple employees) know for sure -- the rest of us will just have to wait.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphoneiphonerumorrumorsThu, 01 May 2008 16:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Keepin' it real fake, part CXVIII: iPhone on the farm]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/keepin-it-real-fake-part-cxviii-iphone-on-the-farm/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/keepin-it-real-fake-part-cxviii-iphone-on-the-farm/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/keepin-it-real-fake-part-cxviii-iphone-on-the-farm/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Others, Apple

Yeah, we too are hoping that these overseas impostors will have to start changing up their game if they still want to ape the iPhone in just a few months, but as it stands, the Toggolino Phone actually does a fantastic job of shaming itself. Apparently this handset, er, device comes packaged with some form of German kit meant to teach kinder a few things about words, animals and the equitable distribution of wealth throughout social classes. Okay, so maybe that last bit isn't in there, but seriously, those animal apps look way more interesting than stocks, weather and company email.

[Thanks, Oliver]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleiphonekeepin it real fakeKeepinItRealFakekirfreal fakeRealFaketoyThu, 01 May 2008 15:18:00 EST<![CDATA[3G iPhone to be discounted to $199 by AT&T?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/29/3g-iphone-to-be-discounted-to-199-by-atandt/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/29/3g-iphone-to-be-discounted-to-199-by-atandt/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/29/3g-iphone-to-be-discounted-to-199-by-atandt/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, ATT, Apple

According to Fortune, AT&T will subsidize the cost of the new, 3G iPhone by as much as $200, bringing the price within the $199 range. Apparently, a "person familiar with the strategy" claims that the provider will create this bargain bonanza for customers signing new, two-year contracts. Of course, the author of the story also says that the new phones will be available in "8-gigabit-memory and... 16-gigabit-memory" versions (for $399 and $499, respectively), so take that as you like. In addition to these discounts, the source says the new iPhone will be 2.5mm thinner than the previous iteration, although we understand that right after telling Fortune this information, the "person" burst into a cloud of rainbow-colored sparkles and went flying off into the night sky.

[Thanks, Penny]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphonediscountiphoneiphone 2Iphone2rumorspeculationsubsidyTue, 29 Apr 2008 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone finally coming to Canada]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/29/iphone-finally-coming-to-canada/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/29/iphone-finally-coming-to-canada/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/29/iphone-finally-coming-to-canada/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Rogers Wireless, Announcements, Apple

It seemed like it would never happen, but the impossible has occurred: Apple's iPhone is coming to Canada. The news was quietly slipped into telecom giant Rogers' latest earnings report, with the simple statement that the company was "thrilled to announce" a "deal with Apple to bring the iPhone to Canada later this year." Apparently, lips are sealed on all other details, but we'll keep you posted as news gets our way.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewscanadaiphoneTue, 29 Apr 2008 08:42:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone feature rumor round-up: Jabber and iTunes control]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/iphone-feature-rumor-round-up-jabber-and-itunes-control/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/iphone-feature-rumor-round-up-jabber-and-itunes-control/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/iphone-feature-rumor-round-up-jabber-and-itunes-control/#commentsFiled under: Apple, OS X

All sorts of little gems are turning up in the iPhone firmware 2.0 code; first we had scraps of GPS support being tracked down, and now we have another pair of goodies that are sure to turn at least a few heads. First up, sister site TUAW is reporting that the latest release makes reference to some sort of remote control for iTunes installations that Apple appears to be billing as "iControl," allowing iPhone users to browse and play iTunes libraries from afar -- presumably over WiFi.

TUAW's also got the lowdown on code suggesting support for XMPP, the protocol that underpins Jabber, and most famously, Google Talk. It seems that access to the XMPP framework is being kept solidly out of third-party developers' hands, though, meaning that Apple -- and Apple alone -- will be using it to support on-device iPhone chat. At this point, both of these features need to be quarantined in the "rumor" category, because even if the code does exist as TUAW's tipsters are claiming, there's certainly no guarantee it'll make the cut for firmware 2.0, iPhone 2, iPhone 3, or iPhone 10. Looks promising, though!

Read - iControl
Read - Jabber support

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecontrolfirmwareiphoneitunesjabberxmppMon, 28 Apr 2008 08:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Foxconn wins 3G iPhone contract, 3 million units shipping in June?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/foxconn-wins-3g-iphone-contract-3-million-units-shipping-in-jun/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/foxconn-wins-3g-iphone-contract-3-million-units-shipping-in-jun/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/foxconn-wins-3g-iphone-contract-3-million-units-shipping-in-jun/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Apple

Need more unsubstantiated evidence that the 3G iPhone is near. Good, the Chinese language Commercial Times is quoting sources claiming that Foxconn (aka, Hon Hai) -- the maker of the 1st gen iphone -- is ramping up 3G iPhone assembly by "the end of May" to ship 3 million units in June. It's expected to produce some 24-25 million units before the product reaches end of life. If those numbers are true then Apple had better be prepared for a proper global launch without those pesky revenue sharing schemes seen holding back world-wide uptake.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g iphone3gIphoneapplecommercial timesCommercialTimesdigitimesiphonerumorMon, 28 Apr 2008 06:59:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone firmware hints strengthen case for GPS support]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/iphone-firmware-hints-strengthen-case-for-gps-support/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/iphone-firmware-hints-strengthen-case-for-gps-support/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/iphone-firmware-hints-strengthen-case-for-gps-support/#commentsFiled under: Apple, OS X

We've heard that the 3G iPhone would add real, true, honest-to-goodness (no joke) GPS into the mix instead of the fakey guesstimation the current model offers, and data unearthed deep within the annals of the 2.0 firmware emulator lends credence to the scoop. Specifically, users have found references to NMEA data, the raw language used to communicate GPS coordinates between devices; that'd suggest that Apple's intending to offer official support for GPS add-ons at the very least, but more likely, it foretells the inclusion of a GPS receiver right in the glossy black shell itself. What that means for efforts like locoGPS (pictured) remains to be seen, but it'd be awfully nice of Stevie to let external modules talk to the new firmware features on original iPhones, wouldn't it?

[Via Navigadget]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleemulatorfirmwaregpsiphonesdkSun, 27 Apr 2008 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Colorware, Photoshop, or iPhone 2? None of the above.]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/colorware-photoshop-or-iphone-2-none-of-the-above/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/colorware-photoshop-or-iphone-2-none-of-the-above/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/colorware-photoshop-or-iphone-2-none-of-the-above/#commentsFiled under: Apple

Does that glossy black iPhone-esque thing we recently saw bare an uncanny resemblance to the description we've gotten of the 3G iPhone? Yeah, yeah it does -- but it ain't it. As we've already mentioned over on Engadget, what we're seeing here appears to be nothing more than an uber-fancy case for the iPhone Senior. Now, if the 3G model should just so happen to steal from cues from what we're seeing here anyway, we think that'd be just alright with us. Thoughts?

[Via Boy Genius Report]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecasecolourwarehong kongHongKongiphoneiphone 2iphone 3gIphone2Iphone3gSun, 27 Apr 2008 19:08:00 EST<![CDATA[RIM developing "Apple Killer" touchscreen BlackBerry?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/rim-developing-apple-killer-touchscreen-blackberry/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/rim-developing-apple-killer-touchscreen-blackberry/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/27/rim-developing-apple-killer-touchscreen-blackberry/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, RIM, Apple

The times has a verbose 2,000 word piece about the high stakes world of high-end cellphone manufacturers (no way!), specifically centered around RIM's post-iPhone trials and tribulations. Besides a bit of vague lip service paid to the 9000 series, they're claiming that two 3rd party developers -- no sources cited -- leaked that RIM has a skunkworks product dubbed "AK" (which stands for "Apple Killer"), and that apparently it'll be touchscreen. And then comes the tub-thumping money shot from co-CEO Mike Lazaridis: "I couldn't type on [the iPhone] and I still can't type on it, and a lot of my friends can't type on it. It's hard to type on a piece of glass." Right, until you guys decide to do one of your own -- these executive types are so transparent they might as well just be up front.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blackberryiphonerumorSun, 27 Apr 2008 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple looking to Immersion for haptic technology on iPhone?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/26/apple-looking-to-immersion-for-haptic-technology-on-iphone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/26/apple-looking-to-immersion-for-haptic-technology-on-iphone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/26/apple-looking-to-immersion-for-haptic-technology-on-iphone/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, GSM, Apple, OS X

Immersion, the same folks responsible for adding haptic technology (force feedback from touch panels, pretty much) in a fleet of Nokia handsets, could be looking to do the same with Cupertino's one and only. While VibeTonz isn't specifically mentioned by name, a recent report (which should certainly be filed as a rumor for the time being) is suggesting that bigwigs from both outfits are in ongoing meetings "over licensing and implementation issues of iPhone haptics." Interestingly enough, this news is flowing hot on the heels of Immersion appointing Clent Richardson as president and CEO; if that name rings a bell, he previously spent five years pretty high up the ladder at Apple. Of course, all the signs pointing to yes doesn't mean anything in and of itself, so we'll just twiddle our thumbs a bit longer and hope to have some feedback for 'em soon enough.

[Thanks, Chris]

Read - Rumors of Immersion bringing haptics to iPhone
Read - Clent Richardson becomes president / CEO of Immersion

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applefeedbackhaptichaptic feedbackHapticFeedbackImmersioniphonepartnerpartnershiprumorSat, 26 Apr 2008 12:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Key next-gen iPhone details ooze out]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/25/key-next-gen-iphone-details-ooze-out/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/25/key-next-gen-iphone-details-ooze-out/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/25/key-next-gen-iphone-details-ooze-out/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, Features, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, Apple, OS X

We've learned some fantabulous, super-secret (no, not that kind of secret, silly!) details about Apple's follow-on to the iPhone, and we'll give you a hint: 3G. Yeah, tell you something you don't already know, right? Fine, fine -- but you're going to have to head on over to Engadget classic for the full rundown!

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applefeaturesiphoneiphone 2Iphone2Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:46:00 EST<![CDATA[8GB iPhone and iPod touch reach end-of-life, at least in the UK]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/25/8gb-iphone-and-ipod-touch-reach-end-of-life-at-least-in-the-uk/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/25/8gb-iphone-and-ipod-touch-reach-end-of-life-at-least-in-the-uk/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/25/8gb-iphone-and-ipod-touch-reach-end-of-life-at-least-in-the-uk/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, O2, Apple

Conspiracy theorists and Mac rumor-mongerers, start your engines. According to an internal O2 memo we've received, stock of both the 8GB iPod touch and iPhone have run their courses, and have been EOL'd (at least in the UK). The brief letter sent out yesterday evening states that, "Due to the highly successful sales of the Apple 8GB I-Phone [sic], supply chain have today run out of stock & will not be replenishing stock of this product as it has now gone to end of life." Whether this is due to the recent price cuts, the rumored upcoming 2nd generation iPhone, or just a sign that Apple is moving towards higher capacity devices is anyone's guess. All we know is that soon the 8GB iPhone -- at least in the UK -- will become as rare and precious as the Pygmy Three-toed Sloth.

[Via The Register; Thanks Callum M.]

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsdiscontinuedend of lifeEndOfLifeeoliphoneipod touchIpodTouchtouchFri, 25 Apr 2008 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[New iPhone SDK and firmware builds in the mix, now with more OpenGL]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/new-iphone-sdk-and-firmware-builds-in-the-mix-now-with-more-ope/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/new-iphone-sdk-and-firmware-builds-in-the-mix-now-with-more-ope/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/new-iphone-sdk-and-firmware-builds-in-the-mix-now-with-more-ope/#commentsFiled under: Software, Apple, OS X

Once again, the time has come for a fresh beta build of the official iPhone SDK -- and if you're lucky enough to be involved in the firmware seeding program, a fresh build of the 2.0 firmware, too. The big change this time around appears to be support for OpenGL ES in the SDK's emulator, enabling easy, breezy access to 3D acceleration for testing all those spellbinding games we plan on playing the heck out of in a couple months. So yeah, shouldn't you get cracking on that? Seriously.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applefirmwarefirmware 2.0Firmware2.0iphonesdkWed, 23 Apr 2008 23:32:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone gets VoIP and chat options thanks to Fring]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/15/iphone-gets-voip-and-chat-options-thanks-to-fring/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/15/iphone-gets-voip-and-chat-options-thanks-to-fring/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/15/iphone-gets-voip-and-chat-options-thanks-to-fring/#commentsFiled under: Software, Apple, OS X

Sure, the iPhone is cool looking, works out a lot, and is really good at math... but it can't do VoIP, can it? Well, yes it can -- and you can, thanks to a company called Fring and a piece of ingenious software (for jailbreakers only). Using the native app, it's now possible to place and receive calls via your WiFi connection, thus making AT&T CEOs cry like little babies. Besides doing Skype and the like, the app also lets you connect for chats via MSN Messenger, ICQ, GTalk, SIP, Twitter, AIM, and Yahoo!, which should make this an attractive package even if you don't want to harness the raw power of IP telephony. You can get the application for free by loading up Installer with the company's repo. Check the video after the break to see the magic happen.

[Via Zatz Not Funny!]

Continue reading iPhone gets VoIP and chat options thanks to Fring

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fringip telephonyiphoneIpTelephonyvoice over ipVoiceOverIpvoipTue, 15 Apr 2008 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[O2 slashing £100 from 8GB iPhone in UK]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/15/o2-slashing-100-from-8gb-iphone-in-uk/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/15/o2-slashing-100-from-8gb-iphone-in-uk/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/15/o2-slashing-100-from-8gb-iphone-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: Handsets, O2, GSM, EDGE, Apple, OS X

The whispers are true, or so it seems. According to Stuff, O2 is getting set to one-up T-Mobile's price cutting affair in Germany by hacking a full £100 from the 8GB iPhone in the UK (bringing it down to £169). Better still, the discount will apply regardless of which contract selection you make, whereas T-Mobile forced users to sign the dotted line on a pricey Complete XL plan. Unfortunately, the lower sticker only applies to the 8GB version -- the 16GB model will remain £329 -- but anyone who sprung for one of the former iterations within the last month will receive an "Ultimate Price Promise" £100 refund voucher. Before you dash out to cash in, it should be noted that the deal is set to expire come June -- and we certainly don't have to remind you what that could mean.

Update: O2 just made it official.

[Via Mobile Today, thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleiphoneo2priceprice cutprice dropPriceCutPriceDroppricingukTue, 15 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST