CES 2012: Smart phones

At the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show, smart phones offer plenty of pumped-up features but not much impressive new technology.

January 13, 2012  Tags: , , , , , , , ,   Posted in: General  One Comment

I’m Yours by Jason Mraz Using Cell Phone Buttons! (Phone Cover)

I need your help finding hilarious videos & Ill credit you for helping me find it! Send in ones you find on Youtube or submit your own here: the2bucks.com Im Yours by Jason Mraz Using Cell Phone Buttons! (Phone Cover) Clip by: www.youtube.com

January 13, 2012  Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,   Posted in: General  23 Comments

Nokia Lumia 900 (AT&T) LTE Windows Phone hands-on from CES 2012

MobileBurn.com – The Nokia Lumia 900 is Nokias new flagship Windows Phone 7.5 smartphone. It shares the same basic design of the 800 model, with its polycarbonate body, but features a larger Clear Black AMOLED display and 4G LTE data connectivity for AT&Ts network. We checked the 900 out while working a press event at CES 2012 in Las Vegas. More info: www.mobileburn.com

January 12, 2012  Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,   Posted in: General  23 Comments

Sim Cards For Your iPhone

 

Here is the good news. It is easy to replace the SIM cards for you iPhone. You have to decide what purpose you want these SIM cards to perform. Some offer enhanced features to your iPhone. Many of these will work only with AT&T and cannot be unlocked. Others will actually unlock the iPhone and allow you to use it on any network, not just GSM networks like AT&T and T-Mobile.

Here is the biggest problem with unlocked phones, you cannot just get them to work on any network. The cell phone provider needs the phone information from the inside of the phone in order to set up service. Therefore, in order to use an unlocked iPhone on another network other than AT&T you will have to get a SIM from a different phone and replace the SIM in your iPhone with that SIM. It is not as easy as it first sounds. You first have to activate the first phone on whatever network and then switch that SIM into an unlocked iPhone. So far so good right? But how do you change the SIM? That is easy. Look near the headphone jack. There is a little hole. Take a paper clip, unbend it, then poke into the hole. The SIM holder, located under the home button, will open up and allow you to remove the SIM. Another problem with changing the SIM of an unlocked iPhone is they may not be the same size. So you may need to get a plastic tray that helps the SIM fit into the iPhone’s SIM tray better.

You can also get SIM cards for your iPhone that do not need to be unlocked. Some of these offer better performance and additional features. These do not have the same issues as the unlocked, but size still can be a problem. Many will come with a plastic try that works as an adapter. For these SIM cards, all you need to do is to swap out the SIM card, your phone should remain activated. If you have trouble, contact the vendor of the SIM first, then contact Apple.

Where do you buy SIM cards for your iPhone? The place with the biggest selection is eBay. As per usual, when shopping on eBay make sure you are dealing with a reputable seller. Check the seller’s ratings and feedback. Also check their PayPal ratings. Never pay by check, cash, money order, or wire transfer. Always use PayPal or your credit card. On eBay there are literally hundreds of different SIM cards to chose from. Many have very vague descriptions. In addition, many of the newer SIM for 1.1.1 and higher will require a rather extensive unlock procedure. If you see terms like iphoneSIMfree, Jailbreak, or AppTapp then you know you are dealing with a SIM that will require an unlocked iPhone in order to use it.

Overall, changing and locating SIM cards for your iPhone is not a difficult task. The problem lies with the SIM cards that can only be used in an unlocked iPhone. If you are planning on unlocking the 1.1.1 and higher firmware be prepared for a long drawn out process or be prepared to pay iphoneSIMfree for their version of an unlock. Then you have the issue of finding a way to use the unlocked iPhone on another network. The iPhone supposedly only works on a GSM network, which translates to AT&T or T-Mobile in the US. Exactly how these other SIM get the iPhone to work on a non-GSM network is something I have been unable to figure out. All in all be careful when purchasing SIM cards for your iPhone. Know what you are buying.

August 31, 2011  Tags:   Posted in: General  No Comments

The Apple iPhone – Super Phone Or Super Hype

The Apple iPhone, super phone or super hype?  Is this cell phone really the complete package that Apple purports it to be or is it all hype? Let us take a look at the facts and fiction about the Apple iPhone to see how it really stacks up against the advertising.

Ease of use, this is what Apple shows in all of its advertising. On this point, they hit it dead on. The Apple iPhone is extremely easy to use. If you can tap something with your finger or slide your finger along a screen you can use the iPhone without difficulty. For ease of use, the iPhone is a super phone.

Music listening and storage. As far as sound quality goes, the iPhone is great. A set of good quality stereo earbuds are required to enjoy the iPhone’s sound quality. To complete the upscale look of the iPhone, perhaps a set of Bluetooth stereo earphones are in orders. In the category of sound quality and music playback capability, the iPhone is a super phone.

Storage is another feature that Apple hypes the iPhone. With 6 GB, 8 GB, and now 16 GB, this seems like a tremendous amount of storage. Here is where the downfall is, you cannot upgrade the memory or use external memory such as memory cards or sticks. Therefore you are limited by the amount of content you can have on your iPhone. You cannot take content with you. A work around could be to store content on an internet site and swap it out when you want it. Any teenager I know can blow through even 16 GB of music in an amazingly short amount of time. If you add in videos and TV shows, 16 GB becomes filled rather quickly. In the storage department, the Apple iPhone becomes hype instead of a super phone.

What about battery life. Here is where there is no hype at all: actually Apple has very little to say about the iPhone’s battery. Here is why. You cannot change it. Most cell phones have a removable battery. This way if it dies, you change it out with a new one. The iPhone lacks this capability. Once that battery dies and will no longer hold a charge, you need a new phone. The reason Apple is so quite about the battery is probably due to the current litigation surrounding this. Is this hype or super phone? Neither one. The battery issue definitely does not qualify it as a super phone. Apple has said very little so there really is no hype involved. Perhaps we should just categorize this as buyer beware.

What about that touch screen? This is where you see the Apple iPhone hyped to the max. Is this super phone or hype? The touch screen is super sensitive. If your phone hits up against something in your pocketbook, or knocks into something while you are getting in and out of your car, you can end up calling people or having your iPhone do something weird. The touch screen does allow you to easily manipulate the iPhone. Overall, the touch screen ranks it as super phone not hype. Just be careful with it. Next there is internet access. All of the commercials for the Apple iPhone show it as a super phone when it comes to internet access. You can use any WiFi to contact friends on Facebook or watch content on YouTube. Well, the browser needs better search capabilities. This is one area where the iPhone is lacking. Another is that the iPhone’s browser does not store password. This was most likely a security feature that Apple built in. Personally, you are better off it does not store your passwords. In general WiFi networks are not secure, and you do not want your banking access information readily available to the public. Is this super phone or hyper. I will give them super phone on this one although it is not any different than any other smart phone out there.

The Apple iPhone, super phone or hype? It is looking like it comes out as a super phone. Especially if you want the music and internet capabilities.

August 31, 2011  Tags:   Posted in: General  No Comments

iPhone Utilities Everyone Must Have


It’s easy to say that one of the best aspects of the Apple iPhone is the fact that you can personalize your iPhone based on your own personality.  True customization of applications is one of the greatest reasons why so many individuals are flocking to the iPhone.  However, it is with the near daily introductions of new applications that makes the iPhone so amazing.  If you are known for getting your point across, and not being afraid to say what is on your mind, than you will love the Marq application for the iPhone.

This application is low-tech, however, it promises to get your message across to anyone you want to.  The reason why this application is called Marq is because it simulates a marquee-style.  How this application works is by you typing in any message that you want, and then it is displayed in a powerful marquee-style method, which scrolls across your iPhone screen.

This is a great way to get your thoughts heard, and you can do so in a unique way.  You are given the ability to change the speed of the text, the colors as well as the message field.  The Marq application is a fun addition to any iPhone.  However, there are other iPhone applications that serve a more practical purpose.  One of these applications is the iRibbit, which is literally like having eBay on your cell phone.  This amazing application allows you to not only view items that are up for bit, but they let you actually bid on items as well.  If you are an avid eBayer, than you must have this application for your iPhone.

Many people are worried about using these type of applications for placing bids on eBay, especially if you eBay for a living.  However, this application won first place in the eBay International Widget Contest.  So, you can bid in confidence that you are getting the upmost in security, stability and simplicity.  Whether you just want to look for items to purchase, or if you want to run your entire eBay store through your cell phone, you can do so with this application.

Another great feature about this application is the fact that you can also manage your watch list, by adding and removing items.  This is a great application to have if you are not always able to be by your computer, but you want to make sure you don’t miss out on the latest Nintendo Wii auction.

Applications are a great way to customize your iPhone, as well as create a unique and powerful way to communicate with the world around you.  Whether you want to have an application that is silly and does nothing more than provide you and your friends with entertainment, or if you have a more serious purpose for these applications, such as running your eBay store.  No matter why you need an application, or what type of application, you can find practically any widget for your specific needs.  And it is this that makes the iPhone such an incredible tool in communication and productivity.

August 31, 2011  Tags:   Posted in: General  No Comments

Staying out of trouble when buying Mobile Phones

 

The market has been overrun by the mobile phone industry.
Where does one begin when searching out a mobile phone and
service carrier?

Which phone is the best one for the buck?

Which service plan will meet the needs of the customer
without sending them into a downward spiral of bankruptcy?

A simple search on the Internet will reward the consumer
 with literally millions of choices. A trip to local
businesses that offer mobile phones and service plans will
not necessarily prove any better.

The best thing to try to do is educate yourself before
purchasing. In many cases once you sign up for a service
plan, you are obligated to fulfill the contract before you
can change plans. Usually the contract terms are for the
period of one year.

There are mobile phones available that have no contract.

The phone time is pre-purchased and you are allotted a
number of minutes for each dollar you add. This is the best
option for those who are less responsible or who don’t want
the trouble of a monthly bill.

Your phone lets you know when your minutes are up and
purchasing new minutes is as easy as a phone call, visit to
the Internet or trip to the store.

Most people who use this type of phone are the ones who
keep their phones strictly for emergency uses.

Otherwise, spend time researching and talking to people.
Don’t fall for the first sale thrust upon you and
definitely spend the time to thoroughly read and understand
your contract.

This preemptive tactic will help keep you out of trouble
when it comes time for the dreaded monthly mobile phone
bill

July 25, 2011  Tags: , ,   Posted in: General  No Comments

Technology of Mobile Phones

Where will technology take us?

With the introduction of the newest gadgets every year, the
experts have given us the technology to put almost
everything we do into one little device. The Mobile Phone.

Once just used for simple person-to-person contact, the
mobile phone has grown up a lot since its introduction in
the 90’s.

Even your basic cell phones offer a selection of advanced
features. Where will it end?

Will our mobile phone one day run our lives?

Unlock our cars perhaps?

Be used as a remote control for our television?

Of course, you can place calls with your mobile phone from
almost anywhere and at anytime.

Of course there are still a few places out there where the
signal antennas don’t reach, but before long, this wont
matter.

Another feature that is more common on phones now is text
messaging. This works just the same as instant messengers
on our computers.

People can talk to each other via text. This makes
conversing easier when one person is otherwise occupied and
cannot keep an actual conversation at the time.

Another feature most phones have nowadays is a digital
camera. This feature has both its pros and cons.

Most people don’t carry a camera with them at all times for
those moments when we wish we did have one. They have
proven helpful in situations like car accidents, criminal
situations, and even catching the occasional embarrassing
moment on film.

But there have also been arguments in regards to privacy.
People have been found using the camera phone for spying on
other people in places like dressing rooms and under
tables.

Cell phones now offer so many more advanced options. Things
such as MP3 players, FM radios, GPS services and advanced
Internet capabilities. Someday, our mobile phones may
replace our notebook computers in their capabilities.

July 25, 2011  Tags: ,   Posted in: General  No Comments

Benefits of Owning a Cellular Phone

This is not a new line to let go of but we could totally say that Cellular phones are very popular everywhere. No matter what the age of an individual is, it is indeed now a need instead of just a want. Cellular phones are in demand not just because they are necessary for communications but because this seems to be one of the hippest possessions especially for the young people.

Cellular phones come in different models and varied features that would surely be of great help to users depending on their needs and depending on the way the cellular phone features meet the standards of the users. There are benefits that could be derived from owning a cellular phone, there may be some disadvantages from them but it is beyond denial that cellular phones are really useful and they have influenced us more access, more technology and more mobility.

There are numbers of benefits that we could really get from owning a cellular phone but there are three of the most dominant benefits:

  • This is very useful in case of emergencies

-With a cellular phone, you could contact people as fast as you could without letting the situation get even worse. Through cellular phones, it would be easier for people to respond to unexpected cases that may happen to them along the way. Without cellular phones, the transfer of information would be slow and would also produce slow outcomes.

  • This could lead you to the right direction

-While traveling in a new place, it is natural that a person may get lost or lose the right direction. With a cellular phone, it would be possible for you to find the right direction. As we are all aware of, there is that locator feature now that could be enjoyed by users. There is also an option that could be very helpful for kids and parents. For example, by accident, a kid gets lost, parents could trace the location.

  • This could let you help others especially when they are in the middle of an emergency.  Through this, you could selflessly open your hand and lend a help. This is a great help to a community for it does build bridges among people. And, this is what the essence of communication is. Building bridges instead of walls.

These are the three major benefits of owning a cellular phone. These are big advantages if you own one. It would be plus points if you could get a good model or a good brand.

July 25, 2011  Tags: , ,   Posted in: General  No Comments

Driving and using your cellular phone

 

It has been a major notice to all not to use their cellular phones especially while driving. There are a lot of possible negative effects. But, it is also obvious that many just seem to neglect it. We must bear in mind that it is not something just to take for granted. Instead of just letting the reminder slip by, see to it that you take it as a great tip.

What should be done? What must be done in order to deal with such a situation? There are very helpful points we may want to consider in order to use our cellular phones properly. This would be minimizing the rate or the accidents on the road.

The following are the safety tips you should take note  * Let your passenger handle phone calls This would be something a passenger could understand. As the driver, it would be a very big responsibility since you handle lives in a vehicle. A call, no matter how important it is, it must be considered that it could be a distraction if he drives and answers the call.  * Use message taking services or integrated answering systems and call back later This is a better means for it would at least ensure that you would get to receive your calls during the time that you are not so busy. This would also be very good for passengers for it carries with you the assurance that you do not fail to keep the trip secured as a driver. * Let someone else drive while you make or receive calls This is a safe means. Instead of missing the call, you could probably ask someone to drive for you. This is a better choice than just drive while blabbering with another person on the other line. * Pull over and stop your vehicle – ensuring that you are in a safe place before using your cell phone. When it is a real emergency call, you could seek permission from your passengers. They may understand. This is indeed a safe option, it would let you answer an urgent call and keep your passengers safe all throughout the trip. These are the four steps you try doing in order for you to answer cellular phone calls while on the road. Accidents must be avoided. You have to make your own move and safe answers to the situation. You have to equip your self with the right tips as you grace the road and then the phone rings.

July 25, 2011  Tags: , ,   Posted in: General  No Comments

Cell Phone Etiquette

Owning a cellular phone is indeed a great help especially to those who are working, it could be a necessity for these people especially in keeping communication lines open especially in relation to the job. But, there must be a proper time when to use or when not to use the cellular phone.

The things that are mentioned below are the reminders that must really be remembered by people at work. These are the so-called etiquettes in using the cellular phone in working places.

* Turn your ringing tone to silent mode if you could not turn it off.

It would be very disturbing if you are at work, then that cellular phone of yours rings like as if there is a big emergency. You know for a fact that you’re going to distract other employees. See to it that you do not disturb others while they are working.

* Cellular phones for important calls only

You have to classify whether or not a call is important or not. What is important? Important calls are those that require urgent response. These calls may include emergency situations such as involving the family or other necessary people.

* Voice Mail while you cannot answer

There is this voice mail feature that you could surely enjoy when you could not receive a call. We know that of course, as a part of your social life, you have to keep in touch with other people. It has to be understood that you are in your workplace and your total attention must be rendered for your job, you could use Voice Mail and respond to the calls later.

  • Find a Private Place to Make Cell Phone Calls

At break time, you could make or receive phone calls but see to it that you go somewhere and not stay on your desk. Though it is break time some of your co-employees are still doing some of their work, you might just distract them, it would be best for you to be in a private place to answer the calls.

  • The rest room is not the right place

It would not be courteous to use your cell phone in the restroom. You might intimidate other people using the bathroom. It would also not be fine for the other person on the other line to hear some flushing sounds.

Though you set your phone to a silent mode and vibrating alert on, it would really arouse your curiosity to check if who calls you. It would be rude for your co-employees especially for your superior. It would surely leave a bad impression.

When you follow these reminders you would be save from the wrong impressions you could leave and you would really be “professional” at work.

July 25, 2011  Tags: ,   Posted in: General  No Comments