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    Acer launches Honeycomb equipped Iconia Tab A500 and Gingerbread powered Iconia Smart S300

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    The local Honeycomb tablet wars has begun with Taiwanese giant Acer firing the first shot with the release of the Iconia Tab A500 in an event held at the Crowne Plaza Galleria. This 10.1-inch tablet sports some pretty nice hardware, with the A500 sporting an NVIDIA Tegra 250 dual core processor running @ 1GHz. The Iconia Smart S300 meanwhile sports a 4.8-inch display, which is currently one of the biggest displays in a smartphone so far which is complimented by a Qualcomm 8255 processor delivering 1GHz of power. I managed to get some hands on time with both – you can go here for my hands on of the Iconia Smart S300.

    Unlike the Motorola XOOM, the Iconia Tab A500 has plenty of hard buttons, with the power and volume controls located on top and on the right side of the Tab. The overall build quality is pretty solid, with the unit sporting a nice metallic finish.

    The different sides of the A500.

    The Iconia Tab A500 has two cameras, a main 5 megapixel camera with LED flash, and a secondary front facing 2 megapixel one.


    This particular iteration of Honeycomb is pretty fast, and the on the whole the device is very responsive.

    The Iconia Tab A500 is capable of some heavy multitasking. I opened up a couple of tabs before I ran the Android game Need for Speed Shift. Speaking of Shift, we’ll be uploading a video of the Iconia Tab A500 once our internet gets better.

    Overall my short time with the Iconia Tab A500 was pretty positive. There’s still a lot of ground to cover though, as the hotel’s WiFi was pretty useless. There’s no official word on the price yet, but Acer execs say that the WiFi version of the Iconia Tab A500 will retail below Php 25,000, while the 3G equipped version will sell for less than Php 30,000. Both will become available in Q2 (May to June). We’ll get to an in-depth review as soon as we get a review unit.

    Widescreen Wonder – the Acer Iconia Smart S300

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    Along with the Acer Iconia Tab, today’s Acer event also gave us an opportunity to get all cozy with the Acer Iconia Smart S300, their latest Android smartphone running on el Googs’ Gingerbread (2.3) OS. The Iconia Smart S300 is a bit special (and I mean that in a good way) as it’s currently the first one I’ve seen sporting an extra tall 4.8-inch screen.

    The overall construction of the Iconia Smart S300 makes it a nice device to hold, as its metal construction gibes it a nice solid feel. It’s powered by a Qualcomm 8255 processor delivering 1GHz of processing power. The device feels fast and snappy, and is able to handle most, if not all, the Android market apps currently available.

    Here’s a couple of profile shots of the Iconia Smart S300.

    Unlike other brands, the Iconia Smart S300 uses physical keys on the front of the device, along with the requisite volume rocker buttons on the side.

    Here’s a comparison shot of the Iconia Smart S300 with the 4-inch Samsung Google Nexus S for comparison.

    Here’s another, from the side.


    Just like the Iconia Tab from today’s event, I wasn’t able to test its internet connectivity because the Crowne Plaza’s internet was on the fritz.

    We’ll get a full, in depth review of the Iconia Smart S300 as soon as we get it. Stay tuned!

    Experience 3D on paper

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    If you think 3D is just on your TV screens and even laptops, well, think again.

    There is a new book compiled by designer Tristan Eaton that features over 100 3D artworks of up-and-coming artists. Tristan Eaton is the founder and Creative Director of Thunderdog studios- a creative agency and vinyl toy brand.

    Young contemporary artists and designers who took part in this book have only explored 3D for the first time. Many of the works featured ranges from different artistic communities such as designer toys, street art, pop surrealism, graffiti, graphic design and even street wear.

    Some of the artists included in this book are Eric White, Ron English, James Jean, Dr. Revolt, Claw Money, Haze, Tokidoki, 10deep, Mishka NYC, John Burgerman, Miss Van, Gary Baseman, D*Face, Todd Schorr and Shepard Fairey.

    You might be asking how you’ll see these artworks on 3D, you just have to grab a pair of 3D glasses and voila!

     

    HTC debuts Desire S

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    If there’s one thing that HTC knows how to do, it’s make gorgeous smartphones, and the successor to the Desire is no exception. Meet the HTC Desire S, the latest Android smartphone to come out of the Taiwanese manufacturer’s stable. The Desire S was launched earlier tonight at the Club Icon in the Intercontinental Hotel, Makati. Members of the press were treated to the sights and sounds of the HTC Desire S, and I can tell you right now this baby is definitely a looker.

    Let’s start with the screen. The HTC Desire S sports a 3.7-inch, S-LCD capacitive screen that has a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels and is protected by Gorilla glass. The Desire S sports the same design cues as the previous models – the same subtle chin at the bottom, same touch sensitive controls, same physical button layout. What has changed is what lies under the hood and the overall build of the unit, as it seems like HTC’s developed a love affair with unibody designs and powerful processors. Much like the HTC Desire HD and the HTC 7 Mozart, the Desire S is made out of a single block of aluminum. It’s powered by a 1 GHz Scorpion processor, Adreno 205 GPU, Qualcomm MSM8255 Snapdragon which makes it extremely responsive during the time I was able to play with it.

    Here’s a nice comparison shot of the Desire S alongside Google’s 4-inch Nexus S.

    Side view. Nexus S on the right, Desire S on the left.

    Like any self respecting Android smartphone, the Desire S is able to connect to the social networks that are important to you.

    Since this is an HTC Android smartphone, it’s equipped with HTC’s Sense UI overlay that adds additional functionality, widgets and other goodies.

    And that’s it. We’re getting one for review hopefully by next week, so stay tuned. The HTC Desire S will retail for Php 27,000. Smart subscribers will be able to get it for free at plan 2000.

     

     

    Apple iPad 2, now at Power Mac Center stores

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    Summer surely sizzles with the exciting availability of the Apple iPad 2 at Power Mac Center stores. This also includes all original accessories and a 30-day free coverage for accidental damage. This allows for a replacement of the iPad 2 in cases in which there is sudden and unexpected physical damage during the 30-day insurance.

    Like the release of iPad last year, iPad2 will be available at all Power Mac Center Apple Premium Resellers stores on April 29 at 10 in the morning.

    Power Mac Centers also celebrates the launch of it 3-day 10%off sale on all iPad 2 accessories such as the smart cover.

    iPad 2 is available in Black or White, WiFi-only and 3G+ WiFi models in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB.

    Samsung Notebook Series 9: In Perspective

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    Samsung Electronics Corporation (SEPCO) got three home design experts to interpret sexy characteristics of the Samsung Notebook Series 9 – the thinnest, lightest and brightest notebook by Samsung.

    Samsung’s In Perspective was truly inspired as three of the country’s top home and lifestyle magazines, Metro Home, My Home and Real Living Magazine recreated the Samsung Notebook Series 9 features into a home design exhibit held at the Powerplant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City.

    Metro Home interprets the Samsung Series 9’s as the thinnest by making it reflect of a homeowner’s sole character. According to Carlo Tadiar, Metro Home Editor-in-Chief, “A homeowner believes that the important aesthetics are in the essentials, Thinness is not necessarily the result of vanity, it is more the condition of wanting only the essential.”

    My Home Magazine interconnected Samsung Series 9 with is light characteristic, showing a light and relaxing space. According to Jie Pambid , editor-in-chief of My Home “The feeling is anything but heavy, white surfaces shine and glow as light bounce and create reflections of light. Light on light.”

    Samsung Series 9’s aspect of being the brightest is reflected on Real Living Magazine. It interpreted it in three ways – light, intellect and color. “The functional pieces found in this small area also serve as décors – yes, including the sleek Samsung Notebook which served as a light source. Who says reading nooks are boring? Style plus function meets a small reading corner – truly a bright idea. added Rachelle Medina, editor-in-chief Real Living.

    “Expect only the best as Samsung takes your laptop experience to an even greater level with truly comprehensive mobile experiences and the best in display offering our customers a complete and comprehensive notebook that meets all of their needs with one premium device with the Samsung Notebook Series 9,” said Hannah Francisco, Samsung  NPC Product Manager.

    Samsung Series 9 Notebook is the world’s thinnest measuring only 16.3mm, the lightest with a weight of 1.31 kg and the brightest using Samsung’s LED technology of SuperBright Plus display with 16 million color reproduction which is 80% brighter than any other notebooks.

    Carrier launches smart aircons, gets the lifestyle treatment

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    You normally wouldn’t associate airconditioners with high tech gadgets, but that’s exactly what Carrier’s new designer series of airconditioners are. These new aircons have a lot of power saving features that’s designed to conform to the local market’s needs.

    The majority of the power saving features center around the energy management. Users now have the option of setting a run time budget – of say, 120 hours per month – in which the aircon automatically shuts off and notifies you when that budget is exhausted.

    It’s also able to turn itself off and turn on an electric fan once the room reaches the desired temperature. Another nice feature is the cycle timer that turns the aircon on and off at 30 minute intervals for a maximum of 24 hours. Finally, users are also able to program the aircon to turn off or on at preset time period, saving you more power. Additionally, the new aircon provides users with an 8-in-1 filter system that ensures healthier air for your loved ones.

    The new aircon is available in .75, 1, 1.25 and 1.5 HP capacities, and retails for Php 18,700, Php 21,900, Php 22,200 and Php 25,500 respectively.

     

     

     

     

    ASUS Presents: The Coalition

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    At an intimate event held last month, Taiwanese manufacturer ASUS introduced several cutting edge products to select members of the Philippine press. Dubbed the Coalition, these collection of products fills almost every need present in the market, from enthusiast gamers to mobility conscious consumers.

    N43S – sight and sound

    Powered by Bang and Olufsen ICEpower with Asus SonicMaster technology, the N43S releases world class acoustic power that’ll please even the most jaded of sound enthusiasts. The N43S uses Intel’s second generation Core i series of processors delivering excellent performance to match its unparalleled sound quality.

    Eee PC 1015PX – old reliable

    ASUS is undoubtedly the progenitor of the netbook, so it’s no wonder their Eee PC line of netbooks have taken the world by storm. The Eee PC 1015PX follows that great tradition; offering users a stylish and value packed netbook that’s able to keep up with everything you do and still have plenty of juice left over via the Super Hybrid Engine (SHE) that enhances energy efficiency and reduces power usage by up to 15% delivering up to 11 hours of unplugged usage.

    ROG G53 – gamer’s choice

    Extreme mobile gaming. That seems to be the ethos behind the ROG G53, ASUS’ notebook aimed at gamers that want to take their games on the road without compromising performance. Armed with a second generation Intel Core i7 processor churning out 2 GHz (up to 2.9 GHz with Intel Turboboost), NVIDIA GTX 460M (1.5 GB VRAM) and 8GB of DDR3 1333MHz memory, the G53 is the ticket for mobile gaming bliss.

    Sabertooth P67 – military might

    ASUS is known primarily for its PC components, so it’s only natural to flaunt the product lines that got them to the top. Their newest motherboard, the Sabertooth P67 grants users increased flexibility and improved power efficiency by doubling power control and supplying precision by using military grade capacitors and chokes. With high temperatures remaining the leading cause of hardware breakdown and performance reduction, the TUF SABERTOOTH P67 optimizes output through several new innovative technologies, including the Thermal Armor and Thermal Radar, which offer stronger heat resistance.

    Eee Slate EP121 – Windows 7 tablet

    The event also served as a sneak peek of sorts into ASUS’ foray into the tablet market, with the appearance of the Eee Slate EP121, which they have dubbed as the world’s most powerful tablet device  as it is powered by an Intel Core i5 processor. While most tablet devices have lesser processors, the EP121’s i5 processor takes productivity to a whole new level —meeting all your needs and more, giving you the power to run Office applications or view videos on sites like YouTube or doing storyboards and art sketches.

     

    Google Chrome now supports speech input through HTML, inadvertently makes universal translator?

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    The guys over at Google have just made it possible for Chrome to recognize speech and use it as an input method. The feature has been in the beta phase for about a month, and now it’s been rolled out for public consumption. In a post at the official Google Chrome Blog, software engineer Josh Estelle explains one of the possible uses of speech as an input method: translation. You can now go into Google Translate, speak English (or any other supported language), have it translated and then spoken back to you in the translated language you chose. Not quite the universal translator in Star Trek, but hey, it’s a start.

    Source: Google Chrome Blog

    Fan made Golden Axe game available to download, is better than everything

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    Gamers who grew up with the Sega Genesis almost instantly recognizes the side scrolling beat ’em up Golden Axe. I mean, who could forget that dwarf with his comically oversized axe, the Conan-like barbarian and the lady with the big..erhm..sword.

    Well some fans thought, “we should totally make a prequel game of Golden Axe”, and that’s totally what they did. The result is Golden Axe Myths, a fan made prequel that manages to both entertain and drown players with 90’s nostalgia. The graphics have been updated to conform to modern standards and there’s some additional artwork and music thrown in for good measure. The whole thing is free to download via the group’s website and you should be downloading this right now because DUDE, GOLDEN AXE.

    Next up: Streets of Rage. We can dream, right?

    Via: Joystiq

    Source: Golden Axe Myth

     

    Globe 4G rollout to improve subscriber experience

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    Globe subscribers can expect better call, text and data services with the commercial rollout of the 4G mobile technology that uses global standard HSPA+ or Evolved High-Speed Packet Access at it first phase.

     

     

     

     

     

    Currently, subscribers with 3G-enabled mobile phones and broadband dongles will already benefit with this. They will be able to have improves call, text and surf services on mobile phones, laptops, PCs or tablets.

    Globe 4G mobile technology has been installed in 19 pilot areas in Metro Manila like Marikina, Quezon City, Makati, Pasay, Las Pinas, Taguig and the City of Manila.

    On the coming month of May, Globe will be offering 4G-enabled handsets, devices and applications for better enjoyment of the 4G mobile experience. With this new addition to the Globe service, subscribers will be able to internet browsing at an average speed of 4-6 Mbps

    “Through our 4G network, we are providing our subscribers with the most relevant technology by letting them experience it just when they need it. We were the first Philippine operator to commercially launch Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) in 2009, which is now being enjoyed by 1,500 sites covering 365 cities nationwide,” said Peter Bithos, Senior Advisor for Consumer Business of Globe Telecom. “Now, we are launching 4G mobile using HSPA+, which will enable better, faster, and more reliable data connections for our subscribers – whether on their phone, laptop, PC or tablet.”

     

     

     

    By the end of 2011, Globe expects increase in 4G footprint with the continued expansion of HSPA+. Also, by 2012 Globe will start rolling out Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology in time for availability of LTE enabled devices.

     

    Gadgets Magazine, the pioneer in technology-lifestyle publication, is in need of technical writers.

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    Job description:

    Technical writer positions involve writing or editing materials such as articles on new gadgets, softwares, applications, operating systems, and the like. Must have good knowledge of computers and other electronic devices to come up with informational materials and present this information in a form and at a level suitable for the intended audience. Assignments often involve writing or editing for a magazine and electronic media, and may involve overseas trips. These positions require knowledge of a broad range of sources of pertinent information; skill to analyze and present the information gathered; and knowledge of publishing practices, standards, and technologies for the media used.

    Requirements:

    · Graduate of 4-year course preferably computer science, engineering, information technology, liberal arts or mass communications.

    · Writing knowledge

    · Good communication skills

    · Detail oriented

     

    Interested parties should shoot an email to [email protected].

    Blog-o-sphere unites for a cause

    Style and Beauty bloggers of the World Wide Web will be out of your computer screens to take part in Bloggers United: An interactive Shopping Affair. This event will be the very first bloggers bazaar featuring the most sought after writers of the online fashion community.

    This event will be a venue for bloggers and readers to get together and interact with the community. Blogging has proven to be a very good part of the new media, empowering individuals and giving them voice in this emerging high tech word. This is why Bloggers United is giving back to the needy by donating a part of the proceeds to K.I.D.S. (Kabataang Inyong Dapat Suportahan) Foundation to assist the organization in “helping children from all walks of life enjoy their rights and experience growth and development through God-centered activities that promote fun and enjoyment.”

    Bloggers Rosanna Aranaz, Lloyda Lim, Tricia Gosingtian, Laureen Uy and Kryz Uy will be participating on the event with style icons- Kookie Buhain, Lissa Kahayon, Patricia Prieto, David Guison, Camille Co, Karl Leuterio, and Joanna Ladrido.

    Bloggers United will be on the 27th of May at The Lounge Malayan Hotel Ortigas.

    Sony PSN troubles part deux – Your PSN accounts may have been compromised

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    Sony just can’t seem to get a break, as the previous PSN troubles that was thought to be mere greifing of the electronics giant has just turned serious. As in, “your-accounts-may-have-been-compromised” serious. Sony’s reporting that “a compromise of personal information” has occurred, and there’s still no ETA as of yet when the PSN would be restored, but frankly, we think that’s the least of your problems. What’s really worrying is that Sony itself doesn’t know if users’ credit card information have been compromised, stating that “your credit card number (excluding security code) and expiration date may have been obtained” as well. The laundry list of information lifted from PSN is staggering, and ranges from your shipping and billing address to your purchase history. If you’re a PSN user and have a habit of using the same username and password for all your accounts (which you shouldn’t be doing to begin with), it’s best to start changing them now.

    Via: Engadget

    Source: Playstation Blog

    Suzuki Team Pilipinas ready for the 2011 ARRC

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    Along with locked-up partners Elf and Denso, the Suzuki Team Pilipinas will be traveling to Sepang Malaysia for the first leg of the Asia Road Racing Championship on the 28th of April. This is the first time that a racing team will be participating in an Asian motoring competition. The group plans to position the Philippine Motoring industry in the international scene as one major competition amongst the others.

    Mr. Eiji Kobayashi, Team Suzuki Pilipinas Race Team Director promises good results for the motoring event by the end of this year and assures motoring enthusiasts excitement. Race Team Principal Mr. Benedict Arreola tells riders to work hard and win and the riders wouldn’t settle for anything less and wants to go for the gold. “It is possible to join for the first time and win the gold immediately, Thailand proved that last year”, he added.

     

    There are approximately 200 competing teams for this year’s ARRC and two of the riders who will be hopping on to their motors are Maico Greg Buncio for the Super Sports 600cc category and John Lery Enriquez for the Underbone 150cc category.