iPhone 5 up for UK pre-order: Will you be buying?

 

Phone 5 up for UK pre-order: Will you be buying?

The iPhone 5 is on sale a week today, but if you really want to be sure of landing one on day one, you don’t need to queue – pre-orders on several UK networks have opened already. Will you be getting one?

While EE and O2 are all keeping their cards close to their chest when it comes to iPhone 5 pricing, Three, Vodafone, Orange and T-Mobile UK have all put the iPhone 5 in all its flavours up for pre-order already.

Prices on contract at Orange and T-Mobile are almost identical, as you’d expect since they’re owned by the same company: the 16GB model starts at £109.99 on a £36 per month two year contract with 1GB of data.

Vodafone meanwhile has a slightly cheaper offer if you’re prepared to use less data on the go. You can get a 16GB iPhone 5 for £25 per month on a two year contract by paying £249 on contract. For the unlimited text and call package with 1GB of data though, you’re looking at £37 per month for £99 upfront.

Want one? You’d better act fast. Over in the US, pre-orders for the iPhone 5 have sold out in just a few short hours.

Will you be getting an iPhone 5? Is it Android all the way for you? Let’s hear where you stand in the comments.

Virtual Projected Keyboard

 

Virtual Projected Keyboard

The Celluon MAGIC CUBE Virtual Keyboard is a startling fresh alternative to using a standard keyboard and mouse with your mobile device or computer. The MAGIC CUBE projects a laser onto a flat opaque surface to provide you with a virtual keyboard. You can type on top of the surface of your desk and you can also use the MAGIC CUBE as a mouse. The MAGIC CUBE is powered by a Lithium-Polymer battery and comes with a mini-USB to USB cable for recharging it from your computer. It works with the iPad, iPhone 4, mobile devices running Android 2, 2.1, or 2.2 as well as any device that supports Bluetooth 2.0 or greater, such as a desktop or notebook computer

www.tell-me-first.com

Best Apple iPad yet: Everything you need to know

 

Apple has unveiled the next generation of iPad. It’s more powerful, has a better screen and an improved camera. But is it the upgrade Apple fans were dreaming of? Read on and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the new iPad.

It really is called the new iPad

During Apple’s presentation we were waiting on tenterhooks to hear the name of the new iPad. As it turns out that is exactly what it’s called. Not the iPad HD, or iPad 3. Say hello to the new iPad.

High resolution Retina Display

The new iPad boasts a 9.7-inch 2048×1536 pixel Retina Display that Apple claims makes text look sharper than it does on a newspaper. Gaming should look a treat on it.

A powerful new chip and processor

To cope with the demands you’re going to push on your new iPad, Apple has developed a new AX5 dual-core CPU. With the Retina Display graphics power is key and to keep things nice and smooth an on-board quad-core GPU has been fitted. Overall, you’ll find a 4x speed boost over that of the iPad 2.

A better camera

The new iPad has a 5-megapixel camera featuring auto exposure, auto-focus and auto-face detection. The new iPad now also records video in full HD (1080p), and uses video stabilisation and noise reduction tech to deliver top-notch high quality video.

Battery life

Battery life will remain as impressive as ever. Apple promises a 10-hour battery life and nine hours while powering away over 3G.

4G LTE

The new iPad will be 4G LTE compatible in the US, and 3G ready world-wide. We don’t have 4G in the UK just yet, but trials are already taking place that could see 4G connectivity trickle throughout the UK later this year.

New iPad UK release date

It will go on sale in the UK from 16 March 2012, so there’s not long to wait. Those wanting a piece of the action can pre-order one from the Apple Store website right now. Prices start from £399.

What do you think? Are you impressed by the new iPad? Are there enough changes to warrant an upgrade? Let us know on the comments

Top 5 dual-core smartphones of 2011

 

 

When the curtain closes on a gadget-filled year, 2011 will be remembered as the year that smartphones stepped up and delivered more power, better graphics and more features than inside Mary Poppins’ handbag.

With that in mind, in no particular order, we felt it was time to look back on some of the best dual-core smartphones of 2011. Here are our picks.

Apple iPhone 4S

OK, so it’s not quite the iPhone 5 that many Apple fans were hoping for, but it’s still quicker, and more feature filled than its predecessor. It comes with Apple’s dual-core A5 chip that Apple claims delivers twice the power and up to seven times faster graphics than the iPhone 4. Launching apps, games and browsing the web is noticeably quicker without having a drain on battery life. The addition of voice assistant Siri, a better eight-megapixel camera with 1080p high definition video recording and Apple’s iCloud cloud storage service makes the iPhone 4S a phone to beat.

Samsung Galaxy Nexus

Samsung’s Galaxy Nexus is a high-class performer packing a dual-core 1.2GHz processor. That means everything boots up and runs quicker than they would on non-dual-core smartphones, even when running multiple apps. Meanwhile the new Android Ice Cream Sandwich operating system makes the Nexus a pleasure to use. A new feature will even let you unlock the Galaxy Nexus by recognising your face. Like the iPhone 4S, it too records 1080p HD video.

Motorola Atrix

Shown-off at the start of the year, the Motorola Atrix may be forgotten by some, but this is one powerful smartphone that claimed to put the power of a PC in users pockets. It could be used with optional docks that enhanced its talents. It features a full Mozilla Firefox browser, Flash, and is adept at creating and editing documents on the go. Other features such as fingerprint recognition, faster web browsing and widgets made it one of the year’s best.

Samsung Galaxy SII

As feature sets go, the Samsung Galaxy S II is one of the smartphones of the year. On top of its dual-core processor, it features 16GB of memory built in, with capacity to upgrade to twice that. An eight-megapixel camera takes some great photos. If you’re not shy, a front-facing camera takes care of video calls. It also records full 1080p high definition, which look fantastic on the Galaxy S II’s 4.3-inch Super AMOLED display.

HTC Sensation XE

The HTC Sensation XE is a bit of an upgrade to the earlier released original Sensation, launched earlier in the year. It packs a punch, and features a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, and comes bundled with Beats Audio headphones that deliver some serious bass. Those looking for a top-notch phone perfect for browsing the web, watching videos and listening to music won’t find many better.

Apple iPad 3: What we’d like to see



Next year looks set to be a corker for tablets. In 2012 we could see the launch of the Amazon Kindle Fire in the UK, a new Microsoft tablet with WIndows 8 and of course, the Apple iPad 3. Join us after the break to find out the features we’d like to see on the Apple iPad 3.

Apple’s iPad 2 delivered on many of the upgrades fans wanted, but not quite all of them. Will the iPad 3 deliver? Here are a few things we’d like to see in the Apple iPad 3.

Retina display or equivalent 
Many believed that the Apple iPad 2 would be getting the patented best-in-class Retina Display that graced the iPhone 4. It didn’t. However Apple’s multi-touch capacitive screen is in need of an upgrade and a Retina Display or equivalent is a must.


A Better camera 
OK, so using the iPad 2 camera to take photos may draw glancing looks, but if it’s going to be there, it may as well be as spiffy as possible. Photo quality isn’t the best, especially at coping with indoor lighting. The iPad 2 does better with video. It can record in high definition at 720p, but we’d like to see the iPad 3 record in 1080p high definition – the same as the iPhone 4S. 




SD card slot 
Currently Apple mobile devices do not have an SD card slot. To get around this Apple stock a Camera Connection kit that lets users plug in an SD card reader and USB dongle. But if the Apple iPad 3 is to be the best standalone device it could be, there needs to be removable storage.

Apple A6 processor
Apple is said to be working on an A6 quad-core processor due for launch in Spring 2012. If ready in time, it would be a tremendous boost to the Apple iPad 3 and ensure that it would be more than a vanity upgrade. Webpages, applications and games will load much quicker, and really take the iPad 3 on par with laptops in terms of speed.

Siri voice integration 
This one looks a cert. Voice assistant Siri was one of the iPhone 4S’ flagship features, and we see no reason why Siri won’t appear on the Apple iPad 3. The iPad 3 has gained in popularity as a device to take to work, so the addition of Siri to create reminders, set alarms and organise one’s calendar sounds completely possible.

What else would you like to see in the Apple iPad 3? Let us know in the comments section below

The best Apple iPhone 4S apps of 2011

 

 

Apple’s iPhone 4S is the latest Apple iPhone upgrade, bringing with it new features such as its voice assistant Siri, an eight-megapixel camera and 1080i video recording. Download apps and the iPhone 4S becomes even more fun. With that in mind we’ve picked out some of the best iPhone 4S apps of 2011.

Galaxy on Fire 2 HD Galaxy on Fire 2 HD is a souped up version of the iOS space shooter optimised for the iPhone 4S and iPad 2. Galaxy on Fire boasts over 10 explosion-filled hours of gameplay in a 3D universe spanning over 20 star systems. It’s a blast.

Instagram 
One of the good things about the iPhone upgrade is a better camera. With 8 megapixels to play with camera apps such as Instagram are given a new lease of life. Those rose-tinted Instagram photos look positively rosier.

Find My FriendsFind My Friends makes it easy to locate friends and family with your iPhone 4S. All you need to do is send a friend or family member a request to see their location and have them accept. A temporary sharing location can be activated on days visiting friends to let them know if you’ll make it on time, or to let them see that you’ve made it home safely.

iMovie 
iMovie has always been around, but if you own an Apple iPhone 4S, iMovie is even better by the 1080i video recording skills of the latest iPhone. As usual, owners can add sound effects, photos and trim the length of clips in just a few swipes of the finger, before sharing via YouTube.

Real Racing 2Real Racing 2 is one of the best racing games for iPhone 4S, if not the best. It features updated graphics especially for the iPhone 4S and over 10 hours of racing gameplay, 16-player online races and 15 locations to race in.

Modern CombatLike console versions, first-person games done correctly on mobile phones are good fun to play. Modern Combat 3: Fallen Nation is one of them. It can be played with more than one player over 13 missions full of memorable scenes of action. Multiplayer mode is played out by 12 players across six exclusive maps. As iPhone 4S games go this is a complete package.

Cards 
This brand new app lets iPhone 4S owners create and send greeting cards with personalised greetings, photos and text to paste to pre-made cards that can be ordered from the app. Cards can be sent to anywhere in the world. Simply place your order and enter your Apple ID password.

Infinity Blade 2The most highly-rated game on the iPhone finally gets a sequel. And guess what? It’s even better, with new environments, three new combat styles and the fun gameplay fans remember. A must-have game for the iPhone 4S.

Shazam 
Shazam isn’t a new app by any means by it’s still one of the most handy to have around. It’s a music discovery app that tells you the name of any piece of music playing in the vicinity, the artist and album.

My Xbox LIVE
The My Xbox LIVE app has finally reached iOS devices. If you own an Xbox 360 and regularly play games over Xbox LIVE, you need this app. It lets you view and customise your avatar, check your Xbox Achievements and those of your friends. You’ll can even send messages to those on your Xbox LIVE friend list.

Top 5 Apple accessories every Apple fan would love by

 

Whether you own an Apple iPhone 4S, an iPad 2 or a MacBook Pro there are plenty of accessories you can buy for each. What’s more, with Christmas just around the corner, you’ve just enough time to get them on your list for Santa. Check out the Top 5 Apple accessories every Apple fan would love!

From keyboard docks to earphones, we’ve selected five accessories for Apple gadgets any Apple fan would love to receive. Read on for our top five Apple accessory picks and potential stocking filler ideas for the Apple fan.

Apple iPad keyboard dock

If you’ve got an Apple iPad you’ll find typing on its screen takes some getting used to. Thankfully you can buy a keyboard attachment that docks onto the bottom of the iPad – keeping it upright while allowing you to type away. The official keyboard docks are very compact, are made from aluminium, and have low profile keys. It’s also small enough to pop in your bag with your iPad 2.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air

OK, so we’re using the term ‘accessory’ loosely here, but if you already own an iPhone or iPod Touch, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air is one of the best pieces of kit for getting the most from your iTunes music collection. It looks and sounds fantastic. The latest model features AirPlay, letting you stream music from any Apple computer to the Zeppelin Air to fill up the room with sound. 



SoundMagic E10

Apple’s portable range of gadgets are well made, have some great features and are capable of delivering top-notch sound. But only if you’ve got a decent pair of earphones. The standard Apple earphones that come bundled do a job, but aren’t of the best quality. For fantastic-sounding earphones without the high cost check out the SoundMagic’s E10 earphones are the best in its class. They cost just £35 but to do the job of earphones up to three times the cost.

iPad Smart Cover

Got an Apple iPad 2? If so, these iPad Smart Covers are very good for protecting your tablet without the unnecessary bulk that usually comes with covers. A clever design neatly folds against the iPad 2 to protect its screen. The Smart cover even doubles up as a keyboard stand that folds into an upright position for comfortable typing.

Apple Magic Mouse

For Apple MacBooks and and the iMac Apple’s Magic Mouse is a wonderful accessory that uses the same multi-touch technology you’ll find in the iPhone. Apple’s Magic Mouse introduced the first range of multi-touch mouse that you don’t need to move to scroll through pages. It combines the same functionality of a two-button mouse without the buttons.

Got a favourite Apple accessory you’ve added to your Christmas list? Let us know about it in the Comments below.

Gadget of the year 2011

 

Gadget of the year 2011

 

2011 has been a fantastic year when it comes to new gadgets, with some truly epic technology making an appearance for the first time. From the Samsung Galaxy S II, to the Apple iPhone 4S, we’ve been rounding up the very best toys for our Gadget of the Year 2011 poll. Read on to find out more.

We’ve seen thousands of great announcements in the past 11 months, and it’s now time to vote on the best. We’ve gathered ten of the greatest devices from the past year – check out all the videos below, and vote to have your say in the Gadget of the Year 2011.

Nintendo 3DS With 3D technology making a bigger splash than any other year, Nintendo chose 2011 to launch its new Nintendo 3DS games console. With the ability to play games in 3D, it’s a great bit of kit.

OnLive With OnLive, there’s no need to own a gaming console, no need to spend money on a gaming PC, and you’ll be able to play some fantastic new titles online, via your TV, at great prices.

Apple iPhone 4S The Apple iPhone 4S may be evolution rather than revolution, but it boasts some great new features. We’re particularly fond of Siri, and it really is the more comprehensive and easy to use voice recognition software yet.

Virgin Media TiVo Finally, a TV on demand service that can take on the might of Sky+. Sure, it doesn’t offer quite the same choice when it comes to live TV, but the electronic programming guide is more comprehensive, you can record an extra channel simultaneously, and it has a better choice of programmes to watch on demand.

Sony HDR-TD10E With 3D TVs now making a widespread appearance on the market, the Sony HDR-TD10E lets you take full advantage, with this tiny camera recording high-definition video in 3D.

Samsung Galaxy S II The Samsung Galaxy S II is one of the first smartphones to truly compete with the Apple iPhone 4, and in many ways it’s the better handset. Can it win your vote for Gadget of the Year 2011, however?

Apple iPad 2 Apple revolutionised the tablet market with the iPad, and the Apple iPad 2 has taken things a step further. Smaller, lighter, faster, it’s still the best all-round tablet on the market, although devices like the Asus EeePad Transformer come close.

Samsung 8000 Series 3D TV Samsung offers a fantastic range of high-definition TVs, and the Samsung 8000 series is no exception. This stylish choice offers both high-definition and 3D, so it will still be up to date for years to come.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin has become an iconic gadget over the past couple of years, with the latest version – the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Air – offering an additional handy feature – the ability to stream music from your iPhone without needing to dock it.

Nike+ Sports Watch powered by TomTom Work off any Christmas excess with the Nike+ Sports Watch, which uses TomTom technology to work out exactly what you’re up to and how many calories you’re burning. Check out the video to find out more.

INVADERCADE Space Invaders Apple iPad dock!

 

The Apple iPad has revolutionised the way many of us browse the web, read books and watch films around the home. Holding it can be a bit of a chore, however, which is where the fabulously retro iNVADERCADE comes in.

Despite the daft name, the iNVADERCADE is actually a pretty decent looking gadget, mimicking the Space Invaders arcade cabinet of the late 1970s. You won’t need an oversized living room to own one, either, as it’s actually designed to accommodate your Apple iPad, and use the Apple’s display for games or media playback.

Wooden iPad case anyone?

You won’t just benefit from having somewhere to prop your Apple iPad, either, as – just like the original arcade machines – the iNVADERCADE also features a proper joystick and a host of buttons to let you take advantage of games.

Along with playing Space Invaders, the cabinet also charges your Apple iPad, and is perfect for when you just want to chill out and listen to music or watch films (albeit in portrait mode!).

The iNVADERCADE is designed for use with the Apple iPad and Apple iPad 2, and will hit the shops later this year.

Turn your iPad into a mini iMac with the Stabile Pro stand by The Gadget Show

 

Out of all the tablets currently on sale, the Apple iPad 2 remains one of the best, mainly thanks to the more impressive range of tablet-related apps available. If you just use your iPad for watching movies or browsing the web, however, it’s worth investing in a stand, and the Stabile Pro iPad 2 stand has to be the nicest we’ve seen yet.

One of the reasons lots of people have yet to switch to tablets is the fact that you still have to hold them or prop them up when you’re carrying out tasks that aren’t interactive. This may be a major selling point when you’re reading an eBook, or watching a movie on the move, but it’s a pain when you just want to settle down and watch a film at home.

A stand is the solution, and the Stabile Pro iPad 2 stand fits the iPad’s design perfectly. It features a steel design that’s in keeping with the stand found on the iMac – so will fit perfectly into the home of Apple fans – and there’s also a solid ball joint on the back for swivelling your iPad for better viewing.

You can attach the iPad in both profile and landscape orientations, and when hooked up to a Bluetooth keyboard it really does promise to turn your iPad into a mini computer.

Made by Thoughtout, the Stabile Pro iPad 2 stand is set to cost a pricey $85. Although based in the US, the company ships worldwide.

Have you invested in a stand for your iPad, and does it get used much if so? Leave a comment and let us know.

Tablet roundup: From iPad to Eee Pad, which is best?

Tablets are currently the must-have gadgets, letting you stay in touch, browse the web, read eBooks and play games on the move, with the comfort of a decent screen. There have been loads of new models out recently, however, making it a bit of a minefield if you don’t really know what you’re after. Read on for our tablet roundup.

Asus Eee Pad TransformerOut of all the tablets currently on sale, the Asus Eee PC Transformer is one of the most capable. It’s the perfect cross between a tablet and laptop, with a proper keypad when you need it – also offering protection for the screen – and the ability to just leave the keyboard at home when you just want to read an eBook or watch a movie.

Apple iPad 2Although we love the Transformer for it’s ability to turn into a proper little laptop, the Apple iPad 2 still has it licked when it comes to apps. iOS is perfect in tablet form, with lots of apps available that run full screen and at a decent resolution. The iPad 2 also offers excellent quality.

HTC FlyerFor lots of users, the HTC Flyer is the perfect size. It’s 7-inch screen makes it a lot smaller than the iPad 2, yet it’s still large enough to view websites or read eBooks without straining your eyes. It can’t quite match the Eee Pad Transformer or iPad 2 for quality, however.

Dell StreakThe only one of this group with a sub 7-inch form factor (the Streak actually features a 5-inch screen), Dell’s creation seems to blur the line between smartphone and tablet. It’s definitely small enough to take out on the road with you, but some people will find it too small to carry out the same tasks comfortably.

BlackBerry PlayBookDespite the PlayBook name, the latest BlackBerry tablet is actually aimed at business users. It looks good, it’s easy to use, but it falls down in one big area when compared to rivals – apps. Both Apple and Android devices offer loads of great software, where the PlayBook is limited at the moment.