Engadget Mobile

Sprint matches Verizon's pace, launching BlackBerry Tour on July 12

Chris Ziegler — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:14:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, RIM, Sprint, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, BlackBerry OS

So much for exclusivity, eh? Sprint is staying toe-to-toe with Verizon in the race to get the BlackBerry Tour to market, launching the consensus hottest RIM device to date on July 12 for $199.99 on contract after rebates. It's awfully refreshing to see an ominous statement like "later this summer" morph into "early summer" instead of slipping into the "dead of winter" as is all too often the case with hotly-anticipated phones, and we have a sneaking suspicion the Tour's gonna sell like a remastered Bonnie Tyler live album (that's a good thing, by the way). Who's in?

Sprint matches Verizon's pace, launching BlackBerry Tour on July 12 originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

The Pre gets PlayStation gaming and more thanks to ZodTTD (video)

Joshua Topolsky — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:48:00 EST

Filed under: Games, Software, Palm, webOS

If you're familiar with the emulation scene (and let's be honest, you are reading Engadget), then you know the name ZodTTD -- the brain behind some of the best jailbroken emus for the iPhone, including variations on the PlayStation, Game Boy Advance, and most importantly... the TurboGrafx-16. Now the master-hacker has brought his goods to the Pre, cooking up a version of psx4all on the Palm device, with the aforementioned GBA and TG16 ports on the way! Interestingly, he reports that the performance on the Pre is actually better than that of the iPhone 3GS, and of course he's hacked access to the keyboard, allowing for (more) proper control of games. There are still kinks that are being worked out (sound emulation, screen scaling, etc.), but it looks like we can expect big things in the near future. We at Engadget know everyone will rest a bit easier tonight knowing that real gaming on the Pre is at hand. We'll hopefully be getting our hands on a version soon, but for now hit the read link for more info, and check out the full video after the break!

Continue reading The Pre gets PlayStation gaming and more thanks to ZodTTD (video)

The Pre gets PlayStation gaming and more thanks to ZodTTD (video) originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Palm Pre gets upgraded to 1.0.4 (update: homebrew installs via email dead for now)

Chris Ziegler — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:50:00 EST

Filed under: Software, Palm, webOS

We don't know exactly what's new yet, but Palm's released firmware version 1.0.4 for Pres on Sprint (not to say there are any other Pres out there at the moment, anyhow). Stay tuned for details.

Update: Looks like the only changes here address security vulnerabilities -- and interestingly, Palm gives a shout-out to Townsend Ladd Harris (a Pre homebrewer no less) who helped find them. Cheers to that.

Update 2: Sadly, Palm's plugged the hole that allowed homebrew apps on the phone without a jailbreak, though software you've already installed on the phone will continue to work. The hole that's been plugged was admittedly dangerous to leave open (installing apps via a link in email), though rooting and installing otherwise remain unchanged as far as we know.

Palm Pre gets upgraded to 1.0.4 (update: homebrew installs via email dead for now) originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nokia, Apple, RIM and others agree on micro-USB phone charger standard for Europe

Thomas Ricker — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:15:00 EST

Filed under: LG, Motorola, Nokia, RIM, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Accessories

While the free-market works pretty well when, uh, left alone to be free, sometimes it needs a push from a visible hand. Case in point, phone chargers, at the moment some 30 different types of chargers are used on handsets throughout Europe. Today, the European Commission received industry backing of its phone charger standard that relies on a micro-USB socket. The standard is now backed by all the majors (representing 90% of the European mobile market) including Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Motorola, Apple, LG, NEC, Qualcomm, Research in Motion, Samsung and Texas Instruments with compatible devices starting to appear in Europe next year. Or course, the micro-USB charger standard already has the blessings of CTIA, OMTP, and GSM Association which implies a broader adoption beyond Europe, someday. One charger for any mobile phone... where's the catch?

Nokia, Apple, RIM and others agree on micro-USB phone charger standard for Europe originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

HTC Ozone comes to Verizon June 29 for under $50

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:08:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, HTC, Verizon Wireless, Windows Mobile, GSM, EDGE, EV-DO, CDMA

Is it cooler than Sprint's Snap? That's for you to judge, but whatever the case, Verizon has now announced its own version of HTC's latest WinMo Standard handset. The so-called Ozone features WiFi, global roaming capability, VZ Navigator and visual voicemail support, a QWERTY keyboard (which feels great if it's anything like its cousin's), and a beefy 1500mAh battery that we're betting will keep this thing going all day and then some. The best part, though, might be the price: it'll be just $49.99 on contract after rebate when it launches online on June 29 and in stores on July 13.

HTC Ozone comes to Verizon June 29 for under $50 originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

HTC Hero running Android and Sense UI leaks from HTC's own website (updated and official)

Thomas Ricker — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 05:29:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets

As we prepare for HTC's official launch event today, we're starting to see some details appear on HTC's own website of the much rumored Hero. Through some URL trickery, we've managed to unearth several details that confirm the previous rumors. Hero includes the new HTC Sense widget-based interface that puts at-a-glance info right up front on the home screen where it belongs. A new Scenes profile feature lets you transform your phones focus from business to weekend mode. Viewing your contacts shows the usual data in addition to the interactions you've had through social networking status updates and photos from the likes of Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, and Twitter. A dedicated search button searches the phone as well as services like Twitter. In fact, like Palm's Pre, the HTC Hero seems ready to fully integrate your local data with all your subscribed social media sites. The big unveiling is just about an hour away, until then, have a poke around HTC's Hero site yourself by hitting the read link below.

Update: First images are out! More after the break. Inside you'll find Qualcomm's MSM7200A proc running Android at 528MHz, 512MB/288MB ROM/RAM, 3.2-inch TFT-LCD with 320 x 480 pixel rez, 900/2100MHz HSPA and Quad-band GSM, trackball, GPS, 802.11b/g WiFi, 3.5mm audio jack, G-sensor, compass, and 5 megapixel auto-focus cam with microSD expansion. It's all there baby.

Update 2: A bit more detail just rolled in. The White version has an industry-first Teflon coating (right, just like your pans) to keep things clean and grime free. Multi-touch and anti-fingerprint coating too. Hero arrives in Europe in July on T-Mobile and Orange, Asia later in the summer, and North America even later in 2009.

Continue reading HTC Hero running Android and Sense UI leaks from HTC's own website (updated and official)

HTC Hero running Android and Sense UI leaks from HTC's own website (updated and official) originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 05:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Qik now available on Android

Chris Ziegler — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:23:00 EST

Filed under: Multimedia, Software, Android

Qik, the live mobile video streaming service pioneered on S60, has always set out to tackle as many phones and platforms as it possibly could -- and the latest to get hooked up today is Android, which means you can push video to the world anywhere you've got a T-Mobile signal on that G1 of yours (and all the better if you're in one of those AWS 3G markets). The software's actually already available in the Android Market, so go ahead and test it right now; just put some pants on first, alright? Please, this is a family service.

Qik now available on Android originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

T-Mobile myTouch 3G announced, starts shipping late July

Chris Ziegler — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, HTC, T-Mobile, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, Android

The good news is that T-Mobile USA has finally gotten around to announce its second Android handset, the myTouch 3G; the bad news, though, is that you can't have it just yet. The carrier-customized version of the HTC Magic that has already shipped in parts of Europe, Asia, and Canada features a 3.2-inch 480 x 320 touchscreen, AWS 3G for use on T-Mobile's high-speed network paired with quadband EDGE for global roaming, WiFi, a 3.2 megapixel camera, Exchange support, and -- of course -- Android 1.5 with all the virtual keyboardin' you can handle. Better than the G1? Other than the larger internal memory common to all Magics, that's strictly a matter of personal taste -- but don't worry, you'll have a while to sort it out, because T-Mobile won't even start taking preorders from current customers until July 8 for $199.99 on a two-year contract. Those orders will start shipping in late July, with full national availability following on in early August in your choice of black, white, or "merlot."

Gallery: T-Mobile myTouch 3G announced, starts shipping late July

T-Mobile myTouch 3G announced, starts shipping late July originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Palm webOS 1.0.3 update now available

Nilay Patel — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: Software, Palm, webOS

Looks like the first post-Pre-launch webOS update is now being pushed out -- Pre owners, get ready for 13MB of 1.0.3 awesome. We're getting a full list, but Palm just told us some of what's new includes better Exchange email support, faster Google calendar syncing, and a bunch of app improvements.

Update: Palm's posted the full release notes here.

Palm webOS 1.0.3 update now available originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Video: SPRXmobile's Layar is world's first Augmented Reality browser for cellphones

Thomas Ricker — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:55:00 EST

Filed under: Software, Android

This one's been a long time coming but it looks like Dutch company SPRXmobile has launched the world's first Augmented Reality browser. Layar, as it's called, runs on Android and aggregates the data from the cellphone's compass and GPS coordinates to understand where you're standing and what you're looking at. A "radar view" then applies a visual information layer on top of the camera display as you pan around your environment. Content partnerships including a local bank, social networking site, and a realty company allows Layar to identify houses for sale, nearby ATMs, and local clubs and bars all laid out visually on your cellphone's display. Layar will be available this month in The Netherlands via the Android Market for phones such as the G1 and HTC Magic. It will launch in the US, Germany, and the UK sometime later this year with the iPhone 3G S listed as a primary target platform. Looks great with plenty of data populated in the video sample (posted after the break) but we have to wonder how well it works in day-to-day reality.

Continue reading Video: SPRXmobile's Layar is world's first Augmented Reality browser for cellphones

Video: SPRXmobile's Layar is world's first Augmented Reality browser for cellphones originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

BlackBerry Tour announced by Sprint, too: $199.99 later this summer

Chris Ziegler — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:37:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, RIM, GSM, EV-DO, HSDPA, UMTS, CDMA, BlackBerry OS

New BlackBerry models are few and far between -- particularly of the CDMA variety -- so when one is announced, the usual carrier suspects typically fall in line within a few weeks of each other and announce their branded versions in rapid succession. This one was particularly tight, though: Sprint has announced its plans for carrying the Tour 9630 just minutes after Verizon. It'll launch "later this summer" for $199.99 after $150 worth of rebates and a two-year contract, which makes the Pre comparison virtually inevitable. Keep the comments civil, though, alright?

[Thanks, Martin]

BlackBerry Tour announced by Sprint, too: $199.99 later this summer originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Samsung Omnia II now official: AMOLED touchscreen with TouchWiz 2.0 destined for Verizon

Ross Miller — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:05:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Samsung, Verizon Wireless, HSDPA, HSUPA

Although not exactly the best kept secret (we first caught wind last week), Samsung's Verizon-bound Omnia II / I8000 is now one hundred percent official, along with even more official US confirmations for the Omnia Pro B760 (Louvre) slider, Omnia Pro B7320 candybar, and the Omnia Lite B7300. Specs for the Omnia II are just a little different than what we previously heard: 3.7-inch AMOLED resistive touchscreen with WVGA (480 x 800) resolution, 7.2Mbps HSPA (or EV-DO Rev. A for Verizon's version), 5 megapixel camera, 720 x 480 at 30fps video recording, 2GB to 16GB internal storage with microSD expansion slot, Bluetooth 2.0, WiFi, AGPS, and TouchWiz 2.0 UI. As for the Lite, we're looking at HSDPA, WiFi, 3 megapixel camera, AGPS, and just as the name suggests, a good likelihood it'll be overshadowed by its more feature-rich brother.

Update: We can't say it's unexpected, but just to be clear, Omnia II buyers shouldn't worry about living in the past. Yahoo! Tech reports its WinMo 6.1 underbelly will be later upgradeable to 6.5.

Samsung Omnia II now official: AMOLED touchscreen with TouchWiz 2.0 destined for Verizon originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Push notifications go live on iPhone courtesy of Tap Tap Revenge

Chris Ziegler — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 02:01:00 EST

Filed under: Software, Apple, iPhone OS

iPhone OS 3.0 may not be available to the masses for a couple days yet, but that's not stopping Tapulous (nor Apple's App Store overlords, apparently) from rolling out a new version of its ridiculously popular Tap Tap Revenge that's fully ready to take advantage of push notifications right here and right now. We've taken the new build for a spin, and in brief, it works as designed -- notification times ranged from near instantaneous to just under a minute. One of our editors here was testing on a cellular connection and the other was on a SIM-less iPhone 3G running just WiFi, so it looks like this setup will work pretty seamlessly regardless of what kind of connection you happen to be enjoying / tolerating / loathing at the moment. Follow the break for a quick video demo.

[Thanks, Brandon]

Gallery: Push notifications go live on iPhone courtesy of Tap Tap Revenge

Continue reading Push notifications go live on iPhone courtesy of Tap Tap Revenge

Push notifications go live on iPhone courtesy of Tap Tap Revenge originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 02:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nokia E72, 5530 XpressMusic get official

Chris Ziegler — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 23:18:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Nokia, Symbian, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS

You'd think that Nokia would want to do a better job of building up such important product announcements with a long, drawn-out series of frustratingly unhelpful teasers, viral videos, and global PR campaigns, but instead, it turns out that the rumored E72 and 5530 XpressMusic have been officially unveiled at the company's Connection 09 event in Singapore. The E72 is arguably the bigger announcement of the two, succeeding the E71 by adding a whopping 5 megapixel camera, a 3.5mm headphone jack (thank goodness), integrated compass, 10.2Mbps HSDPA, and an optical navigation pad; it'll hit in the third quarter for €350 (about $489). Follow the break for video of the E72 in slick, polished, high-orchestrated marketing action. Next up, as we'd heard, the 5530 ends up being a small step down from the 5800 in the S60 5th Edition totem pole, offering just EDGE data without any form of 3G (though you've still got WiFi). It's got a 3.2 megapixel camera with LED flash, 3.5mm jack, and a 640 x 360 touchscreen display. Like the E72 it'll be available in the third quarter; it'll retail for €199 (about $278) unlocked.

[Thanks, nabs]

Gallery: Nokia 5530 XpressMusic announced

Gallery: Nokia E72 announced

Read - Nokia E72
Read - Nokia 5530 XpressMusic

Continue reading Nokia E72, 5530 XpressMusic get official

Nokia E72, 5530 XpressMusic get official originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 23:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Jon Rubinstein takes over as Palm CEO

Nilay Patel — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:34:00 EST

Filed under: Palm

You sort of knew this was coming after he shepherded the Pre to launch, but Palm just announced that Jon Rubinstein is taking over as CEO, replacing Ed Colligan after sixteen years in the top spot. After a short break, Colligan will join the very vocal Roger McNamee at major Palm investor Elevation Partners, so he won't be totally out of the loop, but the shuffle is still somewhat unexpected -- and the Palm / Apple bloodlines just got even deeper with the Rubinstein, the ex-head of the iPod and Mac divisions, now totally in charge.

[Via Brighthand]

Jon Rubinstein takes over as Palm CEO originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nokia N97 available tomorrow at US flagship stores

Chris Ziegler — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Nokia, Symbian, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS

Sorry, preorderers -- you've once again gotten gamed by the quick-draw Nokia flagship stores in New York and Chicago who've received stock of the black version of the N97 today. You can't buy the units just yet, but they'll be available tomorrow morning -- the only catch is that there are established waitlists at both locations, so you might have to wait for those folks to burn through stock before you get your own. It'll run $699.99, so, you know... do what you've gotta do tonight to make sure those funds are available by sun-up tomorrow.

[Thanks, Shoham]

Nokia N97 available tomorrow at US flagship stores originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

AT&T: we'll offer tethering on the iPhone

Chris Ziegler — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:24:00 EST

Filed under: ATT, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, Apple

It's been known since day one that iPhone OS 3.0 would support data tethering, and Apple took the opportunity at WWDC today to drive the point home by saying that it'd be launching the service with 22 carrier partners in 44 countries. Of course, it's easy to have assumed that AT&T wouldn't be one of those partners, but we've been told today by a company spokesman that it will be offering tethering on the device -- it just doesn't have any announcements to make at this time. Whether that means availability will be delayed (perhaps until the 7.2Mbps upgrade is built out) or they're just trying to hammer out pricing, we don't know, but it's a promising sign.

AT&T: we'll offer tethering on the iPhone originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

iPhone 3G S announced: $199 16GB, $299 32GB, June 19

Nilay Patel — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, ATT, Apple, iPhone OS

As endlessly predicted, Apple's unveiled a new iPhone today at WWDC, the iPhone 3G S -- the "s" stands for speed. Although it looks almost exactly like the 3G, it's much, much faster -- some tasks are almost four times faster. Data speeds are upped to 7.2Mbps HSDPA, and the camera is now a 3 megapixel unit with tap-to-autofocus and auto white balance -- and just as expected, it now supports 30fps VGA video recording with editing features. You're also getting a built-in compass, Nike+ support, and a new battery that offers 5 hours of 3G talk time and 9 hours of WiFi internet use. There are some surprises, too -- holding down the home button now enables a new voice control interface that lets you do everything from make calls to control iTunes, and Apple's touting a new "fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating." New and end-of-contract pricing is set at $199 for 16GB and $299 for 32GB when it goes on sale June 19th Stateside and in 80 more countries in August -- and the current 8GB 3G will remain on sale for $99, effective immediately. You'll have to pay a bit more if you're mid-contract, though -- $299 for the 3G and $399/$499 for the 3G S.

Read - Apple PR
Read - AT&T PR with pricing info

iPhone 3G S announced: $199 16GB, $299 32GB, June 19 originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

LG Neon now available on AT&T

Chris Ziegler — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 23:10:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, LG, ATT, GSM, EDGE

If you're looking for 3G, you need to drop a few more bucks on the slightly pricier Xenon, but LG's Neon carries over most of the Xenon's other features for less dough -- and you even get to stick with the noble gas theme. The QWERTY side slider features a 2 megapixel camera, touchscreen (mainly so you can input numbers without any unnecessary drama), Bluetooth 2.0, and support for up to 4GB of microSD storage, so it's a pretty capable little device for the $29.99 you'll spend on contract after $50 mail-in rebate.

[Thanks, Daniel Q.]

LG Neon now available on AT&T originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Sun, 07 Jun 2009 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

T-Mobile myTouch 3G box art comes out to play

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 23:18:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, HTC, T-Mobile, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, Android

It's no big secret that T-Mobile was going to get a version of the HTC Magic at some point, but this box art confirms a couple very important things for us. First, it's going to be called the myTouch 3G -- not the Magic, Sapphire, or G2 -- and the imagery conjured on the packaging is a good deal more exciting than that found on the G1. Second, it'll be available in three colors, just like its older, QWERTY-equipped brother -- but unlike the G1, the wildcard third color will be a dark red marketed as "merlot." Of course, white and black will also be available, and we've got the proofs for all three in the gallery below, so have a look while you wait for launch; our documents here say that T-Mobile expects to bring this sucker into retail stores on August 5 -- but given the carrier's "early summer" statement for its next Android device, we're cautiously optimistic that date has been pushed up.

[Thanks, anonymous tipster]

Gallery: T-Mobile myTouch 3G box art comes out to play

T-Mobile myTouch 3G box art comes out to play originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 23:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Alltel steps down to one-year contracts without changing phone prices

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 10:22:00 EST

Filed under: Alltel

Here's a refreshing shocker: the industry-standard two-year contract is effectively going away -- at least temporarily. Starting tomorrow, the 91 markets of Alltel that Verizon is required to divest are now offering one-year contracts for all new and renewing customers, but there's no increase in phone pricing -- you'll pay exactly the same amount at the register as if you were signing a two-year deal. The move almost seems like a little "screw you" to whomever ends up acquiring the markets, since those companies will effectively have to deal with the lost revenue -- but on the record, anyhow, the divested trust's main sales guy says that they're "excited about the possibility of joining AT&T." We're not so sure that AT&T feels the same way, but in the meantime, this is a nice little win for customers.

Alltel steps down to one-year contracts without changing phone prices originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 10:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

LG GD910 to start shipping in July

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 03:21:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, LG, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS

It won't be the cheapest way to get in on 7.2Mbps HSDPA, but it might be the coolest way -- or at the very least, the geekiest -- when LG finally begins shipping out its GD910 watch phone starting next month. Sales will kick off in Europe on Orange, followed by Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and Latin America, so odds are good that this thing will be available in a neighborhood near you over the next few weeks. Practical, it's not -- but video calling through a wristwatch is pretty much every little boy's dream, so we're going to cut this phone a whole lot of slack.

[Via Akihabara News]

LG GD910 to start shipping in July originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 03:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Sony Ericsson expands PlayNow arena to cover apps, too

Chris Ziegler — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:18:00 EST

Filed under: Software, Sony Ericsson

It looks like Sony Ericsson is taking a page out of Apple's book for the launch of its app store, bundling the service in with the very same platform it already uses to distribute music and movies. PlayNow arena -- which was originally designed for music distribution and whose movie rental functionality is going live this month in a handful of locales -- is now being expanded to incorporate applications as well, initially coming to 13 countries and some 38 Sony Ericsson models. Conveniently, PlayNow arena is already well-plumbed to support a variety of blling methods which should make the transition to paid apps a pretty seamless one for the company, devs, and users alike. Submissions from developers for inclusion in the store will kick off July 1, initially covering Java and Symbian before being expanded to cover "additional platforms" (Android, anyone?) later in the year; there's no word, though, on exactly when end users will be able to get in on the action.

Sony Ericsson expands PlayNow arena to cover apps, too originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Sony Ericsson W995a hits US stores July 6 for around $600

Chris Ziegler — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 03:01:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Sony Ericsson, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS

It's not every day that Sony Ericsson custom crafts a model just for North American store shelves, so it's pretty exciting to see that the W995a -- a phone mentioned in passing back in February alongside the announcement of its W995 brother -- is very, very real and imminently destined for SonyStyle shops across the colonies. Following the company's typical naming conventions (well, "typical" prior to the Satio / Aino / Yari, anyway), the W995a is simply a W995 that's had its 900 / 2100MHz HSDPA radio gutted and replaced with an 850 / 1900 / 2100MHz version, making it ripe for 3.5G use both in the States and abroad. Features include a 2.6-inch QVGA display, Bluetooth, Memory Stick Micro slot, 3.5mm audio jack, WiFi, FM radio, AGPS, and an 8.1 megapixel camera with face detection, image stabilization, and autofocus -- in other words, it's packed to the gills with pretty much every feature this side of a smartphone operating system. Sony Ericsson says that it's a perfect match for "unlocked purists and phone junkies" -- language we like to hear -- and will be available to all comers from SonyStyle on starting July 6 for "about $600."

Sony Ericsson W995a hits US stores July 6 for around $600 originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

T-Mobile USA: next Android set coming "early summer"

Chris Ziegler — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:50:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, HTC, T-Mobile, Android

By our calendars, "early summer" is pretty much now -- so we're excited to hear that T-Mobile USA has officially announced its plans to release its next Android-powered device in that timeframe. The carrier isn't saying what that phone is, but if we were the betting type, our money would be on a carrier-branded version of the HTC Magic / Google Ion -- possibly to be called the myTouch 3G -- especially since it's been rumored for eons and we now have unlocked AWS versions of the phone out and about. Stay tuned as we find out more.

T-Mobile USA: next Android set coming "early summer" originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nokia N97 hitting 75 countries in June

Thomas Ricker — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 02:50:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Nokia

If you had any doubt about the reach of Nokia, the world's leading mobile handset maker, then check this: Nokia just announced the simultaneous June launch of its flagship N97 in more than 75 countries. We already had hints of this for the US and Western Europe but it's good to have it official. And with N97 chatter on the uptick recently, we're expecting to see this 3.5-inch QWERTY touchscreen slider running S60 5th sooner rather than later.

Nokia N97 hitting 75 countries in June originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 02:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Verizon finally releasing BlackBerry Storm update this weekend

Chris Ziegler — Fri, 29 May 2009 15:25:00 EST

Filed under: Software, RIM, Verizon Wireless, BlackBerry OS

An incredible way to start the weekend, Storm owners: Verizon is finally pulling the trigger on a firmware update, which will be available to all comers starting on Sunday at 3PM Eastern time. If that's too much trouble, you'll alternatively be able to sit back, chill, and wait for the over-the-air version to hit, which should follow on at 10PM. Verizon tells us that it'll be releasing 4.7.0.148, as rumored -- just a tiny bump from the failed build 141 that had been rumored before that, but all told, far, far too long since the last official update was rolled out. We can only assume this has been tested better than a NASA launch at this point, so you're on notice, guys.

Verizon finally releasing BlackBerry Storm update this weekend originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Fri, 29 May 2009 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Android 1.5 update for T-Mobile G1 now rolling out, for real this time

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 28 May 2009 18:31:00 EST

Filed under: Software, HTC, T-Mobile, Android

There have been a whole bunch of false starts on this, but honestly, folks -- for real, we're not messing around -- T-Mobile has finally started distributing Android 1.5 over-the-air to American G1 owners. This means that anyone who hasn't taken the time to install the update of their own accord is just about to get hooked up without any intervention whatsoever, bringing third-party widget support, a virtual keyboard, email and messaging improvements, a revised UI, and of course, an endless font of delicious pastries that will make you morbidly obese if you eat enough of them over time. Honestly, while you're waiting for the update to arrive, hop on the Bowflex for a few minutes. It's not going to kill you.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Android 1.5 update for T-Mobile G1 now rolling out, for real this time originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 28 May 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Sony Ericsson adds Yari and Aino to its multimedia line

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 28 May 2009 15:10:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Sony Ericsson, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, HSUPA

Launch details for the Satio was the 800-pound news gorilla out of Sony Ericsson today, but slotting in right underneath that set are another couple of phones that are still very much in the higher end of the range -- the Yari and Aino. The Yari slider (pictured left) is being billed as a gaming device, featuring gesture-controlled actions in the same vein as the Wii (and for the record, that's Sony Ericsson's comparison as much as it is ours). It features a 2.4-inch display, GPS, and support for the company's PlayNow services; it'll be available in the fourth quarter for about €400 ($558) unlocked. Next up, the Aino takes some cues from the Satio with a relatively large 3-inch touchscreen -- but also tosses in a numeric slider for good measure. It's got an 8.1 megapixel cam, Sony Remote Play support, GPS, HSPA, and a scratch-resistant mineral glass display; it'll be ready to rock in the same timeframe as the Yari in black and white, though we don't have pricing stats just yet -- needless to say, it'll be more than the Yari.

[Via SEMC Blog]

Gallery: Sony Ericsson Yari

Gallery: Sony Ericsson Aino

Sony Ericsson adds Yari and Aino to its multimedia line originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 28 May 2009 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Sony Ericsson Satio is Idou's final name, ships in October

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 28 May 2009 14:48:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Sony Ericsson, Symbian, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, HSUPA

It's been announced today that the Symbian-powered Idou unveiled at Mobile World Congress earlier this year will be coming to market as the "Satio." The full 640 x 350 3.5-inch touchscreen device features a whopping 12.1 megapixel camera, dual-band HSPA, microSD expansion (yes, microSD, not Memory Stick Micro), and a xenon flash. It'll be available in three colors -- black, silver, and bordeaux -- this October.

[Via SEMC Blog]

Sony Ericsson Satio is Idou's final name, ships in October originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 28 May 2009 14:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Verizon to get Android devices, LTE in 210 markets by 2012

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:38:00 EST

Filed under: Verizon Wireless, Android

It wasn't just Verizon's announcement that it'll carry the Pre that had people talking this morning -- the company's CEO Lowell McAdam also chimed in that it'll be carrying Android devices, a confirmation that finally brings all four US nationals within striking distance of offering Google's wares. Though specifics weren't mentioned -- we don't know what manufacturers, devices, or time frames are involved here -- Motorola was namedropped as becoming a "major player" in the latter half of 2009, something we've already seen hints of in T-Mobile's leaked roadmap. Verizon's a key member of the LiMo Foundation, and while that group doesn't necessarily compete head to head with Android, it'll be fascinating to see how the carrier positions all these products in the lineup.

In the same talk, McAdam mentioned that Verizon's LTE rollout will progress to 210 markets by 2012, up from just a handful in 2010. For all practical purposes, 210 markets lets them start to call the LTE network a "nationwide" one, though we don't yet know where those 210 markets will be (180 could be suburbs of LA, for all we can tell).

Verizon to get Android devices, LTE in 210 markets by 2012 originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 28 May 2009 12:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Verizon Wireless to carry Palm Pre, Storm 2 "in about six months"

Darren Murph — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:18:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Palm, RIM, ATT, Sprint, Verizon Wireless, EV-DO, CDMA, webOS

Think you'll have to wait until June 6th for all the Pre surprises to emerge? Think again. A breaking Reuters report has just dropped one of the biggest cellular bombshells of the year: Verizon Wireless, America's largest mobile operator, will soon be carrying Palm's Pre. Oh, that's not enough? No worries -- it'll also be selling a "new version of the touchscreen BlackBerry Storm," which is obviously the Storm 2 that we've been toying around with. The report makes clear that both phones would be cleared for shipment in around six months, which certainly jibes with whispers we've heard about Sprint's mighty short exclusivity period. The news came from the company's Lowell McAdam, the top executive for the venture of Verizon Communications and Vodafone. To quote: "Over the next six months or so you will see devices like Palm Pre and a second generation Storm." First Sprint, then AT&T, and now Verizon? T-Mobile, where you at?

[Thanks, E]

Update: Seems Mr. McAdam continued on by noting that VZW would get the Palm Pre "and a cousin." Hmm, Eos, anyone?

Verizon Wireless to carry Palm Pre, Storm 2 "in about six months" originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 28 May 2009 12:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Verizon announces LG Glance, enV 3, and enV Touch

Chris Ziegler — Thu, 28 May 2009 10:26:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, LG, Verizon Wireless, EV-DO, CDMA

Three widely-expected models from LG have now gotten fully, completely, and utterly official for Verizon this morning. Starting at the bottom rung, the Glance is a low-end but surprisingly handsome candybar -- a form factor we don't frequently see from LG for Big Red -- with a 1.3 megapixel camera, a "woven metal" battery cover, and a QVGA display; it'll be available on June 5 for $49.99 on contract after rebate. Next up, the env3 replaces (you guessed it) the env2 with that now well-known landscape clamshell design featuring dual displays, dual keypads, and full QWERTY on the inside. It's got EV-DO, QVGA internal and 160 x 96 external displays, a 3 megapixel cam with video recording and flash, and visual voicemail support. It's just a smidge more expensive than the Glance, running $129.99 after rebate and it's in stores tomorrow. Finally, the big kahuna: the enV Touch succeeds the Voyager with a full touchscreen on the outside and an enV-esque QWERTY interior, rocking a 3.2 megapixel autofocus shooter, two -- yes, two -- wide VGA displays, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Touch drops in alongside the Glance come June 5 for $149.99 on contract after rebate.

Verizon announces LG Glance, enV 3, and enV Touch originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Thu, 28 May 2009 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

AT&T expects to sell Palm Pre when Sprint's exclusivity ends

Paul Miller — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:10:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Palm, ATT

We've heard in the past that the Palm Pre would be available at other carriers "next year" sometime after Sprint's exclusivity period is up, and now we have a vague verbal confirmation from AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson that he "sees" AT&T grabbing hold of the Pre once it's available. The remarks were made today at the D7 conference. If this pans out, it fits with rumblings we've heard of the Eos being AT&T's low-end, Centro-style webOS device, with the Pre snapping up the higher end.

[Via Phone Scoop; image courtesy of PreCentral.net]

AT&T expects to sell Palm Pre when Sprint's exclusivity ends originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 27 May 2009 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

AT&T announces 7.2Mbps HSPA rollout plans

Paul Miller — Wed, 27 May 2009 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: ATT

We knew AT&T had an HSPA upgrade in the works, and now the company has announced its plans, with initial rollout beginning later this year and reaching completion in 2011. That will overlap only slightly with LTE, which AT&T plans to put into trials in 2010 and start melting our faces in 2011. The HSPA upgrade takes the network from 3.6Mbps to 7.2Mbps in theoretical speed, and AT&T also plans to nearly double the amount of wireless spectrum it dedicates to 3G in metropolitan areas -- which should come as a relief to city dwellers who haven't managed more than a couple minutes of sustained conversation since mid-2008. To support the increased bandwidth of HSPA, AT&T also plans on adding thousands of new cell site backhaul connections, while also rolling out 3G service to 20 new metro areas and deploying 2,100 new cell sites in total. HSPA-sporting mobile data cards and smartphones will be available "later this year."

AT&T announces 7.2Mbps HSPA rollout plans originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Wed, 27 May 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

HTC Touch Pro2 hits virtual shelves, unlocked and ready for action

Paul Miller — Tue, 26 May 2009 12:40:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, HTC, Windows Mobile, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, HSUPA

Luckily we've got solid word of HTC's Touch Pro2 headed for all of the majors Stateside, or this would come as a bit more of a blow for the hopelessly selfish Windows Mobile users among us: HTC's QWERTY slider flagship is now available online and unlocked, though its Euro-centric nature means there's no 3G for folks who'd like to use it in the wilds of the United States of America. Still, there's plenty of greatness here outside the HSPA data, and the $800-ish pricetag doesn't seem too unreasonable for what you get. And hey, maybe you live in Europe -- we're not ones to judge.

HTC Touch Pro2 hits virtual shelves, unlocked and ready for action originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Tue, 26 May 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nokia Ovi Store now live everywhere

Chris Ziegler — Tue, 26 May 2009 02:02:00 EST

Filed under: Software, Nokia, Symbian

We've just gotten word that Nokia has officially flipped the switch on the Ovi Store everywhere, which means you lucky Aussies, Irish, and Singaporeans just lost your coveted exclusivity. Nokia recommends that you hit up store.ovi.com from your phone's browser to start pumping thousands of euros into Espoo's (and, of course, developers') pockets, so get to it, won't you? Seriously, the economy isn't going to stimulate itself.

Nokia Ovi Store now live everywhere originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Tue, 26 May 2009 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nokia Grouper, Mako, Snapper, and Thresher rolling deep on AT&T

Chris Ziegler — Sun, 24 May 2009 19:59:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Features, Nokia, ATT, Symbian, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS

Who said Nokia doesn't have a major commitment to North American carriers? We've landed news of a whole plethora of Espoo-sourced devices scheduled to hit AT&T over the coming months, and a few in particular caught our eye. Most notably, the Mako (pictured) is unlike anything we've ever seen Nokia make, mostly thanks to a side-sliding QWERTY keyboard that doesn't really resemble any existing hardware. It rides on the same S60 3.2-based platform as the 6650 and E71x, features dual-band HSDPA, a 2.4-inch QVGA display, AGPS, 2 megapixel camera, Video Share, and 128MB of internal storage with microSD expansion. Sadly -- this is going to be a dream killer for some folks, we think -- it's only got a 2.5mm headphone jack, which is a step back for multimedia support. This one was at one time targeted for June 5, but if we had to guess, it's been pushed back -- maybe we're crazy, but we feel like it hasn't leaked enough to meet that date at this point. Anyhow, looks like this one's a good foil for that QWERTY swivel allegedly due on Verizon.

Speaking of "this looks nothing like a Nokia," the Thresher is an ultra-glossy slider that doesn't quite resemble anything officially announced in other markets. It shares its Series 40 guts with Grouper, which was the codename assigned to the 6750 Mural flip we recently saw hit the FCC. Both devices do HSDPA and AGPS; the Grouper makes do with a 2 megapixel cam, though, while the Thresher steps up to 3.2 with an integrated flash. The Thresher's signed up for September and the Grouper for July, but as with all of these, it's anyone's guess whether those dates will hold.

Finally, the Snapper flip is a lower-end device that we could envision replacing the 6555, lacking the Grouper's style but still staying strong with triband HSDPA, Bluetooth 2.1, AGPS, and a 2 megapixel camera. This one's tentatively targeted for August.

Gallery: Nokia Grouper, Mako, Snapper, and Thresher rolling deep on AT&T

Nokia Grouper, Mako, Snapper, and Thresher rolling deep on AT&T originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Sun, 24 May 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

HTC's Warhawk and Fortress are AT&T's Touch Diamond2 and Pro2

Chris Ziegler — Sun, 24 May 2009 19:25:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Features, HTC, ATT, Windows Mobile, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, HSUPA

We know that Sprint, Verizon, and T-Mobile are all getting versions of the Touch Pro2, but what about little ol' AT&T? Turns out that device is codenamed "Fortress," and it'll accompany a Touch Diamond2 version known as "Warhawk" to market this summer. The Fortress is actually listed as targeted for May 25, which seems a bit unrealistic -- but we think the document we're looking at is a little stale, so we're sure the inevitable delay has crept into the schedule by now. It's expected to launch with WinMo 6.1 AKU6 (presumably upgradeable to 6.5 down the road) with full HSPA on three bands, AGPS, a 3.2 megapixel AF cam, 3.6-inch WVGA display, and Video Share support. Curiously, the bottom of the slide mentions that a "WM 7.X refresh" is in the works with a September 2009 launch date, which underscores the fact that this slide is likely a little old -- there's no way anything running Windows Mobile 7 is hitting this year if 6.5 will just be coming to market in volume toward the holiday season.

Meanwhile, the Warhawk -- AT&T's Touch Diamond2 -- gets a 3.2-inch WVGA display, dual-band HSDPA, AGPS, and Video Share, but unlike the Fortress, it's scheduled to launch with Windows Mobile 6.5 installed out of the gate. It's targeted for August 24, so we'll see how closely they can stick to that.

Gallery: HTC's Warhawk and Fortress are AT&T's Touch Diamond2 and Pro2

HTC's Warhawk and Fortress are AT&T's Touch Diamond2 and Pro2 originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Sun, 24 May 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

HTC Lancaster is a QWERTY slider with Android for AT&T

Chris Ziegler — Sun, 24 May 2009 17:17:00 EST

Filed under: Handsets, Features, HTC, ATT, GSM, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS, HSUPA, Android

AT&T's been extraordinarily coy about its Android plans, right up through our interview with Mobility CEO Ralph de la Vega back in February -- but rest assured, the carrier does plan to get in the game, and it might just beat a number of T-Mobile's planned launches to market. Meet the HTC Lancaster, which kinda looks like a Magic when closed -- but open, it takes on more of a traditional Touch Pro-ish form factor for a QWERTY slider than the G1 / Dream. It's got triband EDGE and 850 / 1900MHz HSPA, AGPS, a 3 megapixel fixed-focus camera, Bluetooth 2.0, microSD expansion, and a "unique HTC social messaging user interface" that we'd assume takes cues from that Hero stuff we've been seeing recently. It's lined up for a full six months of AT&T exclusivity and -- according to our materials, anyway -- has a target availability date of August 3, meaning we could see this pretty shortly. Unfortunately, there's a note here that "Initial Lab Entry dates were based on Google Mobile Services (GMS) UI, AT&T standard UI has been requested, which puts schedule in question." In other words, AT&T wants its fingerprints all over the interface, which risks pushing out the launch -- and that's a double whammy of suck. Follow the break for a larger shot of the phone!

Continue reading HTC Lancaster is a QWERTY slider with Android for AT&T

HTC Lancaster is a QWERTY slider with Android for AT&T originally appeared on Engadget Mobile on Sun, 24 May 2009 17:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments