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    Bluetooth 4.0 might make a big impact in your tech-lifestyle

    Despite Bluetooth technology being incorporated in a ton of today’s devices, its 2.0 version provided users with a lot of problems that prevented it from becoming a major means of connectivity. Due to things such as sudden reception drops, software glitches, and even the hassles of pairing devices, people continued to prefer other mediums instead. Supposedly, Bluetooth 4.0 (aka Bluetooth Smart Ready) is about to change all of that and earn a better reputation. It’s already available in a number of newly released devices such as the Apple iPhone 4s and Motorola Droid Razr.

    Although the general range of Bluetooth 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 remain the same at up to 300 feet, there was a significant improvement in the data transfer capabilities from 2.0 to 3.0. Bluetooth 2.1 was capable of 2Mbps of theoretical data throughput while the 3.0 version could do 26Mbps, the latter being fast enough to handle video streaming and other data intensive tasks. Also, Bluetooth 3.0 provided compatibility with NFC (near field communication) chips and allowed a more simple pairing process, which was done by tapping the two devices together.

     

    So what then is the improvement in Bluetooth 4.0? The answer is energy efficiency, giving devices longer battery life. Users will see longevity increase by five to ten times, depending on how often they use Bluetooth. With this type of performance, Bluetooth 4.0 is likely to make an impact on the health and personal fitness market, with a plethora of gadgets that have already been made to track a person’s daily activity with the aim of improving his or her lifestyle. In a nutshell, the new enhancements made on Bluetooth 4.0 will open the door to new accessories, gadgets, game ideas, toys, and apps.

    Gadgets’ Cebu and Davao bloggers meet – we came, we saw, we said hi!

    It always pays to share good news, and we at Gadgets Magazine have made it our advocacy to share good vibes to everyone and not just the people in Metro Manila. To this end, we’ve started our Good Blog Awards initiative together with Coca Cola, which aims to reward people who blog about positive things and inspire people to do great deeds. Since good ideas and great people happen everywhere, we decided to take a trip down south to Cebu and Davao to meet with local bloggers and spread the word.

    Our first stop was  Cebu, where we met the Cebu Blogger’s Society over dinner. Gadgets Magazine Publisher and EIC Maribelle Alba talked about what we wanted to convey with the Good Blog Awards and how a single idea can inspire others to do something good and be something better. Wally Panganiban, Media Relations Manager for Coca Cola Philippines, also spoke about their strategic partnership with Gadgets Magazine over the Good Blog awards, which coincidentally, also meshes with their message of living positively quite well. Yours truly talked about what Piracy really is (hint, it’s a service issue) and the possible ways that bloggers can help to fight it. The meet also turned into a tech advice session of sorts, which was great – geeks love meeting fellow geeks after all.

    It was pretty much the same deal when we flew over to Davao the next day and met with the bloggers based there. The Davao based bloggers were a lively bunch, and were really interested in spreading the good news to the rest of the Philippines. We got the feeling that the bunch were hungry to spread the real score on how beautiful Davao really is and that a lot of the negative things that people from Manila associate with the province is just flat-out not true.

    We met some really awesome people at both provinces, and we hope that our message of spreading good reaches everyone, not just people from the provinces. If you want to know more about the Good Blog Awards, please check out the website at http://www.goodblogaward.com/.

    Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera officially announced for late March 2012

    Canon’s flagship camera, the EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR has gone from rumor to reality after the company’s official announcement during the 25th anniversary of its globally established EOS system. The interchangeable lens camera bears many similarities with the recently publicized EOS-1D X, including its DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor and high-performance 61-point High Density Reticular AF array. Due to its improved processing power, however, the EOS 5D Mark III offers up to 6fps of fast continuous shooting, making it more than 50 percent faster than the EOS-1DX. The new camera with its magnesium alloy body, stainless steel lens mount, and dust-and-moisture-resistant design, includes a 22.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 3.2-inch rear LCD, dual memory card slots, and an extended ISO range of 50 to 102,400 (100 to 25,600 natively).

    Continuing the legacy of the EOS 5D Mark II, this newer model features enhanced video features for cinematography, television production, and documentary filmmaking professionals. This includes better noise reduction, longer recording times, improved weather resistance, and an incorporated headphone jack for audio monitoring. It can shoot videos at HD resolutions up to 1080 at 24/25/30p or 720 at 50/60p, and it also has an HDR mode, multiple exposure mode and comparative playback.

    The EOS 5D Mark III will be available at the end of March 2012 in a body-only arrangement at an anticipated retail price of USD $3,499 (approximately Php 147,000), and together with the EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM zoom lens for about USD $4,299 (approximately Php 180,600). There is no confirmation yet on when the camera will be available in the Philippine market, however.

    Various new accessories will also be offered soon after the camera’s release. In late April 2012, the Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7A will be offered for around USD $849 (approximately Php 35,700), the GPS Receiver GP-E2 for USD $390 (approximately Php 16,400), and the Battery Grip BG-E11 for around USD $490 (approximately Php 20,600). At the end of March 2012 though, the Speedlite 600EX-RT and Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT will already be available at estimated retail prices of $630 (approximately Php 26,500) and $470 (approximately Php 19,740) respectively.

    Those interested in Canon’s new release should definitely check out its full list of specs at www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/slr_cameras/eos_5d_mark_iii

     

    The Nissan Teana 3.5L

    There’s nothing like rolling up in a ride that establishes your presence in the big league. Crafted to exude luxury living, the European style Teana 3.5L sedan achieves harmony between driving performance, comfort, and elegant interior and exterior design.

    The Teana runs with 249hp and 335Nm of torque using Nissan’s award-winning VQ35DE V6 engine, which is the only engine to be included in Ward’s 10 best engines for 14 consecutive years. It also delivers class-leading fuel economy and responsive acceleration through the company’s Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission that also eliminates shift shock, making for a more efficient and comfortable ride.

    The luxurious ride features a classy one-touch electric retractable UV-protected top-load sunroof with a tilt-and-slide function. Inside the car is a ventilated eight-way adjustable powered driver’s seat and a ventilated four-way adjustable powered front passenger seat, the latter having a power-operated Ottoman-style leg rest with adjustment controls for the calf-support position to provide enhanced comfort. It also features an iPod-ready multimedia system to keep passengers entertained for long drives, allowing them to easily play DVDs and music. The system also doubles as a reverse camera that packs a safety CCD (Charged-Coupled Device) with night vision capability that makes parking easier in tight spaces.

    Receiving the top six-star rating in the Japan New Car Assessment Program, the Teana boasts a plush interior, which includes a dashboard that lies gracefully on top of a large wood panel, and chrome finishes to the door latch, grip handles, and double-stitched leather door trim. Additionally, it also comes with a dual-zone auto air-conditioning system, interior mood lighting, audio and cruise control steering buttons, Intelligent Key for keyless operation, and a trunk with a 506 liter capacity.

    Asserting its place in the local automotive market, the Nissan Teana 3.5L is a modern world-class ride for high-flyers presented in four exterior colors; white pearl, sapphire black, deep amethyst purple, and brilliant silver.

    A coffee machine that gives you more than just coffee

    The local market has been over-run with a slew of coffee machines: regular brewmakers, high-end steel contraptions, and the latest craze, single-serve machines. In fact, it’s hard to walk around a mall, department store, or supermarket without bumping into a stall of coffee machine purveyors. Sometimes, it just makes you want to surrender and keep to the trusty hot water pot for your caffeine needs.

    So how do you choose one that’s right for you? Consider a coffee machine that’s more than just that – make it a reflection of your personality, your home aesthetic, and more importantly, your needs.
    What do I look for first?
    Find a brand that has established itself in the market not just in coffee machines, but in coffee, and beverages as well. This is important, because at the end of the day, you won’t be drinking the machine, you’ll be drinking what it pours. Nescafé Dolce Gusto was the first single-serve machine in the market, and is backed by over 70 years of Nestlé experience in beverages. Make sure you also have an after-sales service center to look after your machine, and a customer service center for your concerns.
    A pot or a cup?
    It’s true that traditional coffee makers are convenient. You turn them on, wait a few minutes, and you have 10 cups of hot coffee ready for drinking. But how many times have you thrown away leftover coffee at the end of the day? Or brewed different batches for different tastes? Single-serve coffee machines are perfect even for entire households because they brew just enough (one cup each, at any given point), and they have coffee varieties for every taste. NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto brews each cup in just a few seconds, beating out coffee pots for your caffeine fix. And with five coffee and chocolate variants to choose from, each cup is a custom brew, right in the comfort of home.
    Variety
    Yes, we know that having options makes it harder to choose. But after finding a brand that works for you, and knowing that a single-serve machine is best, then the next step is to browse their catalog for the right fit. The Piccolo is perfect for smaller households who are exploring the coffee experience. With a capacity of 0.6 L, even starter singles can benefit from this machine, which comes in red and black. The Circolo is more for the serious coffee drinker, who values form as well as function. Its sleek style comes in anthracite and cool grey, and is a perfect complement to any stylish home.
    Of course the coffee is what matters, and NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto has five varieties to suit every taste: Caffé Lungo and Cappuccino for those who like it hot and black, Mocha and Vanilla Latte Macchiato for coffee with a twist, and Chococino for chocolate lovers.
    Visit their website, http://www.dolce-gusto.com.ph, and like NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Philippines on Facebook

    PLDT and Smart partner to offer pinoys netbooks for only Php 50 a day

    Smart and PLDT has just given us a heads-up on a new promo of theirs that basically subsidizes the cost of either a NEO or Acer netbook. By signing up to the Home Smart Bro Wireless internet service Plan P999 using the Canopy or WIMAX technology, and adding a mere P500 a month, new subscribers will be able to purchase a Neo Netbook bundle for only P1,499. Alternatively, a subscription to the Home Smart Bro Wireless Broadband internet service for only P999 per month, plus an additional Php800 per month, will earn the subscriber an Acer Netbook for P1,799. Want in on the promo? Then, visit your nearest Smart Store or any accredited Home Smart Bro Wireless Re-seller.  Interested applicants may also call *1888 from their Smart cellphones for more information.

    ECS announces G24 line of all-in-one PCs

    Everyone knows Taiwanese manufacturer ECS as a prolific maker of motherboards, but in a bid for diversification has decided to dip its toes into all-in-one PCs. The company has just launched the G24 line of all-in-one’s. The G24 is equipped with an edge-to-edge 23.6-inch ten-finger touch panel that’s apparently capable of full HD. The company says that the device comes with a high build-to-order capability, as well being able to exchange the motherboard that it uses with an Intel H61 express chipset with support for Intel’s next generation of chips. ECS also says that the device uses modular hard disks, so upgrading storage should be quick and painless.There’s no word on price and eventual availability.

    FirstCarbon Solutions unveils new corporate website

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    ADEC Group member company FirstCarbon Solutions, a global industry leader providing managed energy and sustainability services, launched its enhanced corporate website, www.firstcarbonsolutions.com, in an effort to further drive innovative sustainability solutions to the market.

    Through a unique combination of consulting, software, program management and extensive back office information processing capabilities from FirstCarbon Solutions, businesses are able to reduce costs, optimize resource use, and improve operational efficiencies.

    The new FirstCarbon Solutions website provides a wealth of information on energy management, sustainability and supply chain programs, as well as improved customer support features. “We collaborate with our clients in designing and implementing solutions to help achieve their energy, sustainability, and supplychain goals. Our new website provides organizations with clearer insight into how they can generate value through more sustainable processes, products and services,” said James Donovan, ADEC Group president and chief executive officer.

    The enhanced website features an array of services and capabilities that allow organizations to focus on their core activities and strategic initiatives. Users may easily request for a demonstration or consultation through the website, which also provides access to case studies, industry-leading research, and a comprehensive range of multimedia resources. As an added service, FirstCarbon Solutions offers a free subscription to GreenWatch Newsletter, a monthly industry update with relevant articles on sustainability in key markets.

    A recent report by the MIT Sloan Management Review-Boston Consulting Group found that over two-thirds of companies view sustainability as necessary to being competitive in today’s marketplace. The third annual Sustainability and Innovation Global Executive Study surveyed more than 2,800 corporate leaders representing major industries and regions of the world. Two-thirds of respondents likewise reported that management attention to, and investment in, sustainability has increased in the last year.

    FirstCarbon Solutions, one of five companies within ADEC Group, is recognized for its best practices and industry certifications. It operates in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, China, Philippines, and Singapore.

    Leaked iPad 3 parts combined into one Franken-tablet

    There’s been enough iPad 3 parts leaked out in the wild that someone, somewhere, could theoretically put them together to get a rough estimate of what the next generation tablet from Cupertino would look like. Well, the folks at MIC Gadget did exactly that and put the supposed back panel, front glass and case. According to them, the rumors of the iPad 3 shunning the physical home button is unfounded, as the front case of the device still had that vital navigation aid. The tech outfit also confirmed that the standard capacities will still be present – 16, 32 and 64GB – and that the pricing of the device will still the same as the previous iPads when they were first released to the market. The iPad 3 would supposedly not carry LTE connectivity, as there’s currently too few countries currently using LTE to really benefit from the addition. You can visit Mic Gadget for a more thorough examination while we wait for the official March 7 unveil.

    Source: MIC Gadget

    Samsung Galaxy S III supposedly slated for an April launch, will hit the UK hard

    Although it showed up at the recently concluded MWC at Barcelona, Samsung didn’t have a lot of new mobile phones that really took our breath away. We knew that the firm had supposedly moved the launch of the next iteration of the flagship Galaxy S line after MWC, unfortunately no solid date has been set (aside from some tasty rumors). ZDNET Korea is reporting that the new flagship device would supposedly launch in April, according to Cheil Worldwide, Samsung’s marketing and advertising agency. The Korean electronics firm is purportedly planning a huge campaign in the UK, just in time for the Summer Olympics. BGR reports that the Samsung Galaxy S III would sport a 4.8-inch HD display, 1.5GHz quad-core Samsung Exynos processor, 8-megapixel camera, LTE and Android 4.0 ICS on board.

    Source: ZDNET via BGR

    Asus vying to get first device running on next version of Android (Jellybean)

    Google typically works with a device manufacturer to push out a clean, unmodified device whenever it announces a major revision of its prolific mobile OS, Android. It’s an honor that’s already been bestowed on HTC and Samsung, and you can bet that almost all manufacturers want in on that action. Taiwanese manufacturer Asus is one such company, and according to them, it’s possible that we’ll see next version of Android (supposedly code named Jellybean) first on their devices. Speaking to tech blog Tech Radar, Benson Lin, Asus’ Corporate Vice President said that “Asus is very close to Google, so once they have Android 5.0 I think there will be a high possibility that we will be the first wave to offer the Jelly Bean update.” If you remember, Asus was the first one to offer an ICS update to tablets when it was released, so there’s a big chance that the Taiwanese brand’s hopes could come true.

    Source:  Tech Radar

    Vision Petron recognized in Anvil Awards

    Petron Corporation received four Anvil Awards for its Vision Petron National Student Art Competition at awarding ceremonies held last 24 February 2012 at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel.

    The Anvil Award of Excellence was given for: (1) Vision Petron 11 Collaterals in the external publications category; and (2) Brushstrokes from the Heart: 365Day E-calendar in the digital-internet category.

    Lakbay Pinoy earned an Anvil Award of Merit for public relations programs directed at specific stakeholders – special interest groups category, while the Petron Wall Calendar 2011: Dynamic Partnerships received another Anvil Award of Merit in the external publications category.

    Vision Petron was the most eagerly awaited national student art contest and the Lakbay Pinoy contest theme garnered the biggest number of entries and number of school participation in 2011.

    Over the years, Petron Corporation has been a consistent recipient of the Anvil Award, recognizing its high level of excellence in the practice of public relations to promote public interest, good values, and real public service.

    The Anvil is awarded by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the country’s premier organization for public relations professionals, to outstanding PR programs and tools.

    Samsung’s DV300F lets you take great self-portraits that you can upload wirelessly

    We all know about Samsung’s front-facing cameras that help you take that perfect self-shot. Now Sammy’s updating that line by adding near instantaneous sharing of photos to your favorite social networks via Wi-Fi. The DV300F has all the features you’ve come to expect from Samsung’s 2View line of cameras which include an impressive 16 megapixel sensor, 5x Optical zoom, 25mm wide-angle lens and a secondary 1.5-inch LCD screen on the front of the camera that helps you shoot self-portraits with ease. The camera also comes with a multitude of shooting mode which turns the most boring photo-session into something special. The DV300F will retail for Php 9,990.

    Windows 8 Consumer Preview up for download

    Want to catch a glimpse of what Microsoft’s newest OS, Windows 8 will look like when it launches later this year? Well, you can head over to Microsoft’s Windows 8 Consumer Preview portal site to download the latest build of the next generation OS. It stands to reason that the latest version of Windows 8 would be more refined than the Developer Preview we saw a while back, with Microsoft promising a better overall experience, XBOX Live integration and the availability of the Windows store. Unfortunately, the version of the Consumer Preview being offered to the public will only work for x86 devices, though Microsoft has stated that they will be providing ARM based hardware with Windows 8 already installed to developers (which include chips made by Qualcomm and NVIDIA) to help them make apps for the soon to be launched OS.

    Source: Microsoft

    Nokia unveils Lumia 610: a Windows phone for the masses

    Thought that the PureView 808 was the only Nokia phone that caught our eye this past MWC? Far from it. Our attention was drawn to another recent release of the firm from Espoo this past week – the Lumia 610. While it’s far from being the hardware powerhouse that it’s bigger, Symbian toting, 41-megapixel sporting brother is, the Lumia 610 is possibly one of the most affordable Windows Phone 7 devices we’ve seen, and is slated to retail for about 189 Euros, or about Php 10,700 before taxes. Hardware-wise this device really doesn’t impress that much – 3.7-inch TFT capacitive touchscreen, 800 MHz processor, 5-megapixel camera and toting the latest version of Windows Phone 7 (Mango). Nokia says this little number should land around the second quarter of 2011.