Bing Maps and Nokia Release Unified Map Design
February 28, 2012 at 22:28 GMT | By
Last year, Microsoft entered into a strategic partnership with Nokia which included plans to offer a unique and compelling mapping experience for their customers. Since then Microsoft have been working with Nokia and Windows Phone to deliver a unified map style based on one set of design principles with the goal of providing a more intuitive and pleasing online mapping experience. Bing Maps designers teamed closely with designers at Nokia Maps and the Windows Phone team to unify the map elements, improve contrast and usability to ultimately create a more beautiful and functional map. Today Bing announced the new map design, available on desktop and mobile versions of Bing and Nokia maps.
The design principles are composed of 3 key aspects:
» Common colour palette for road map style
» Celebrate Typography
» Use visual hierarchy to create focus and maintain context
The new Unified Map Design continues the use of pastel colours that Microsoft has been using for the past few years but now better differentiates elements from one another; the example given is that roads and rivers are now more distinct. The use of typography certainly looks to be a major contribution from the Windows Phone team and allows users to identify regions from the size of the text. This text is used to provide clarity to the map without adding to much clutter. As a user zooms into a map the text labels become bigger and more transparent with new more local labels appearing. The use of text size and transparency allows a user to understand the hierarchy of a region, Microsoft calls this "go in for detail, pull back for context".
Source: Bing
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Nokia Drive 3.0: first look at future features (Video)
February 27, 2012 at 14:52 GMT | By
Nokia is pushing ahead with future updates for Nokia Drive that it expects to deliver consistently over the coming months. Lucky for us, The Verge got a chance to look at an early version of Nokia Drive 3.0 today at Mobile World Congress, and in particular, a useful feature for commuters who drive to work. Have a look at he video above.
Source: The Verge
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ZTE Orbit: Another Entry Level Windows Phone
February 27, 2012 at 14:26 GMT | By
Here's more details about the new ZTE Windows Phone. The device has a 4-inch 800 x 480 screen, a single-core 1GHz Qualcomm processor, 5-megapixel camera, 4GB of onboard storage and a full 512MB of RAM. HSDPA data flows at up to 7.2Mbps, while there's also an FM radio, a full complement of sensors, DLNA and NFC.
We hope this device will be aggresively priced to compete with low-end androids and iOS devices.
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Nokia unveils Lumia 610
February 27, 2012 at 14:01 GMT | By
The Lumia 610 looks to be its entry level Windows Phone and will pack 256MB of RAM alongside an auto-focus camera. You'll be staring into a 3.7-inch WVGA (800 x 480) capacitive touchscreen display and have 8GB of storage with no option to expand beyond using Skydrive. The 1,300mAh battery promises 6.5 hours of talk-time and 530 of standby. Connection options include HSDPA Cat 7, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1 + Edr. Nokia also used its latest Windows Phone to demonstrate Nokia Transport; a new app that will draw on tram, train and bus directions for around 500 cities and 46 countries. Color fans will be able to get the entry-level device in white, cyan, magenta and black, arriving in Q2 priced at around 189 euros. The Lumia 610 will be available in Q2.
Source: Engadget
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Skype App Launches Beta Version for Windows Phone
February 27, 2012 at 13:42 GMT | By
Skype has announced that its finally ready to release an app for Windows Phone. Compatible devices include the Nokia Lumia 710, Lumia 800, HTC Titan, Radar, Samsung Focus S and Focus Flash. A spokesperson has told us that the app will be available on most devices running Windows Phone 7.5 and above. This early version will allow free audio and video calls over WiFi or 3G, alongside those any-number paid-for calls.
We hope the app will be regularly updated and new features added.
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ZTE Announce a New Windows Phone Called the Orbit
February 27, 2012 at 09:56 GMT | By
ZTE announced a new Windows Phone called the Orbit. This will be an entry level device with Tango specs. We will bring you the full device specifications when they are made available.
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Huawei: Ascend D Quad Adds Salt to the Wound...
February 26, 2012 at 18:54 GMT | By
... or more like a slap in the face! Just hours after it emerged that Huawei had decided to give Windows Phone a miss, we start to see images of what Huawei declare to be "the fastest Smartphone in the world", the Ascend D Quad. I have to say, its not often that you will find images of Androids plastered on the home page of WPSF, but this HAD to be an exception. In all honesty, this post is driven by a bit of rage and bucket-loads of jealousy.
The Ascend D Quad bosts of a K3V2 quad-core 1.2GHz/1.5GHz processor and runs Android Ice Cream Sandwich is certainly going to be no slouch. In a 64mm x 8.9mm casing, it sports a 4.5-inch 720P HD display, Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound and Audience earSmart voice technology. Camera-wise, we're looking at a pretty standard (for high-end Android devices) 8-megapixel rear camera and 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera, plus 1080p full HD video-capture and playback. Huawei claims that the 1800mAh battery will last "for one to two days with normal usage."
Only if, Only if. Oh well, i guess we would have to wait for Nokia to deliver us a hero Windows Phone.
Source: The Next Web
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More Pictures of the Elusive Nokia Lumia 610 Leaked
February 26, 2012 at 16:32 GMT | By
More pictures of the Nokia Lumia 610 have surfaced before the World Mobile Congress official announcement by Nokia.
There however appears to be confusion over the specifications of this particular device. Pocket Now now claims the Lumia 610 will sport a five-megapixel camera instead of the earlier predicted three mega-pixel shooter. Apparently the 610 will come in four different shades; black, white, cyan and magenta.
Tomorrows announcement (08:30 CET) will obviously put an end to these rumours and speculation.
Source: Pocket Now
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Google Finally available as a Connected Service to Windows Live!
February 26, 2012 at 15:52 GMT | By
Yes that right, Google is now finally available as a connected service to Windows Live. There are currently over 88 connected services from all across the world available on Windows Live. However, while well known websites such as YouTube and Blogger are available as a connected service, Google itself never made it onto the list. While you could always "import" your Google contacts into Windows Live (meaning their contact details are copied over to as a Windows Live contact instead), this is different from having it exist as a connected service (where there is a link between Windows Live and Google, and any updates to the contacts on Google will be reflected in Windows Live periodically).
If you choose to use Google as a connected service, you'll be able to do things like viewing and posting status updates directly to/from Windows Live and integrating the contact list (which automatically de-duplicates for you).
We hope this means we will see some Google service such as search, google+ and chat cross over to Windows Phone.
Source: Live Side
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Nokia Lumia 610 specifications, pricing and images leaked?
February 26, 2012 at 08:27 GMT | By
Could this be the rumoured Nokia Lumia 610? In just two days, Nokia is set to reveal their new additions to the Lumia line of Windows Phones at Mobile World Congress 2012 but it seems some folks with "friends" in the right places have gotten hold of this render (pictured above). Not that we are complaining, our only concern is how this render has an uncanny resemblence to the HTC Radar. Look at that "Jay Leno" chin, it doesn't exactly scream "Nokia industrial design" does it?
BGR India revealed several specifications about the Nokia Lumia 610 today. The device will allegedly feature:
» 3.2" display, likely to be LCD rather than AMOLED
» 3 megapixels camera
» 256 MB RAM
» Windows Phone Tango
The device is reported to be priced around Rs 11,000 (approximately USD 225 or EUR 167) outright unlocked, which would make it the cheapest Windows Phone. Hopefully, within months the 610 could hit the sub-150 USD mark to help Windows Phone compete with those dirt-cheap Androids.
What do you guys think about this one?
Source: Live Side
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Nokia Shipped 1 Million Windows Phones in Q4
February 25, 2012 at 19:12 GMT | By
A new report by research firm Strategy Analytics has revealed that Finnish mobile manufacturer Nokia became the world's biggest Windows Phone vendor in the fourth quarter, as global shipments grew 36% to top 2.7 million units.
Accounting for almost a third of all Windows Phone shipments (33.1%), Nokia captured the top position for the first time in its history (replacing Taiwanese vendor HTC) helped by sales of its Lumia 800 and Lumia 710 smartphones which both launched in November 2011.
Strategy Analytics puts Nokia's global Windows Phone shipments at around 0.9 million units, although the company itself announced that it had sold over 1 million units in its fourth quarter financial report.
It's no surprise that the Finnish giants are now the dominant Windows Phone OEM as they have an exclusive agreement with Microsoft to license the Windows Phone platform. What remains to be seen is how Samsung and HTC respond to this. HTC has said itself that it will focus on 'hero' smartphones, looking to overall experiences rather than trying to release a large number of handsets with slightly increased specifications.
It's important to remember that the Lumia 800 had a limited launch and was only available at the end of November 2011. Still, good news that Windows Phone is somewhat gaining traction, but at what price?
Source: The Next Web
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Minute of Mango: Local Scout
February 24, 2012 at 14:07 GMT | By
Here is Laura Foy giving us another edition of Minute of Mango. This time it's Local Scout, a feature I personally think is underrated and probably underused.
If you are new to Windows Phone, Minute of Mango would be greatly benefial for tips on how to get the most out of your phone. You can subscribe here.
Source: Channel 9
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"Smoked by Windows Phone" Ads Coming to a Website Near You!
February 24, 2012 at 11:18 GMT | By
"Smoked By Windows Phone" ads are coming to your favorite sites like CNET, Forbes.com, Entertainment Tonight, Geek.com, and Daily Candy (and more). You'll find 15 and 30 second clips of Windows Phone taking on the competition. Here's a sample of what you'll see:
Last month, @BenThe PCGuy kicked off "Smoked by Windows Phone" at CES as a fun way of showing the world why Windows Phone is simply faster at the real stuff that real people do on their smartphones every day. Since the show, where Windows Phone won 88% of the challenges (95%, including the wins from our tour of California) against the best smartphones in the business, there has been a huge swell of support for "Smoked"; the videos of the challenges have been viewed over 500,000 times on YouTube.
We like the way Ben is getting people talking, but are internet adverts enough?
Source: Windows Team Blog
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ZTE Set To Unveil New Windows Phone(s) At Mobile World Congress 2012
February 23, 2012 at 09:40 GMT | By
ZTE is set to unleash eight new phones at MWC 2012. Just how many of those will be Windows Phones is yet to be seen. ZTE already have a low-end Windows Phone called the Tania. The Tania has a 4.3" TFT LCD screen, HSPA+ data speeds, a 1.0 GHz single-core processor, 5-megapixel rear camera and 4 GB of storage. At £199, the Tania definitely presents a good deal. We hope ZTE will up the specs a bit, ideally give us high end and a cheaper one to compete with cheap androids.
Read ZTE's official press statement:
23 February 2012, Shenzhen, China, ZTE Corporation ("ZTE") (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a leading global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions, will next week announce a significant extension of its Smart Terminal capabilities, both in its product range and routes to market, including a major new quad-core flagship handset.
ZTE will unveil eight new devices, delivering significant advances in power, high definition multimedia capabilities and design. Based on technology innovations including multi-core chipsets, LTE, 4G radio and the latest Android and Windows Mobile platforms, the new devices form a core component of ZTE's ambition to become a top three handset provider by 2015.
On the infrastructure side, ZTE will be demonstrating a wide range of application scenarios covering LTE/LTE-A, smart networks and cloud computing.
"There is no doubt that this year's Mobile World Congress will again see some exciting device launches. The new devices from ZTE will demonstrate how ZTE is without doubt among an elite group of handset providers as next generation telecommunications networks roll out globally. ZTE returns at least ten percent of its revenues back into R&D to ensure that it sustains its position as a true market innovator, and we're counting down to being able to showcase this to the world's mobile industry next week," said Mr. He Shiyou, Executive Vice President and Head of the Terminals Division at ZTE.
The devices will be officially unveiled in a press conference at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona on Monday 27th February at 10:30 CET. The new devices, together with a comprehensive portfolio of ZTE terminals, will be on display at the ZTE booth in Hall 8, stand B145.
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Minor Facebook App Update Fixes Events Bug
February 23, 2012 at 08:52 GMT | By
Seems like the people in charge of the Windows Phone Facebook app have received a sudden kick up their back-side. They have made good of their promise to deliver a fix for the 'Events' that suddenly went missing after the last update
We hope v2.4 isn't going to be the last one we see in a while. You can download the Facebook app
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Reuters: Nokia to Unveil Cheaper Windows Smartphone
February 22, 2012 at 23:47 GMT | By
Nokia will next week unveil a new, cheaper smartphone using Microsoft's Windows Phone software, targeting a wider market for its new range of smartphones, according to sources close to Nokia.
We assume that this rumoured 'cheap' phone will turn out to be the 610 (pictured right). Cheaper phones are the key for Nokia and Microsoft in their battle to win a larger share of the market. In addition to the new Lumia 610 Nokia will also unveil at the Mobile World Congress trade show in Barcelona a global version of its high-end Lumia 900 phone, which AT&T is scheduled to roll out in the United States, the sources said.
With Microsoft's share of the smartphone market having fallen to a mere 2 percent last quarter, compared with 3 percent a year ago and 13 percent four years earlier, this could be the turning point fo our beloved platform. What do you guys think?
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Nokia Takes The Amazing Everyday to South Africa and Australia
February 22, 2012 at 12:59 GMT | By
Looks like Nokia South Africa is the latest to get in the intense promotion of the Nokia Lumia phones, by letting mall goers in waterfront have a little fun for a day by letting them create their own bouquets, riding a seesaw, playing a piano, and more. Check out the ‘Episode 1? of 'Small Amazings in Cape Town' Above.
The next video is rather generic but still nice to see, especially since it really shows off the Windows Phone OS features to the public, something which we think we can all agree is one of the strongest selling points. All we know is that we can't wait to see what Nokia brings to the US in a few weeks, we're ready to be wowed.
Source: Unleash The Phones
Via: WPCentral
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@BenThePCGuy: Windows Phone Evangelist on Technology and What's Next
February 22, 2012 at 10:46 GMT | By
Mel Carson from Microsoft Advertising talks to Ben Rudolph (@BenThePCGuy) about Windows Phone, his amazing job as Director of Evangelism, the new handsets featured at CES and the #SmokedByWindowsPhone marketing campaign featured on their YouTube Channel .
He also gives his take on why the Windows Phone is not just about play and what's coming next.
Source: Youtube
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Microsoft Goes on the Offensive, Attacks Google Apps (Video)
February 21, 2012 at 20:05 GMT | By
Seems like Mircosoft are taking no prisoners in their latest on-line video advertisements. Just this morning we were reporting about how they are turning 'Smoked By Windows Phone' footage into online ads. The latest is an attack ad against Google for "moonlighting" as productivity software makers. The point that Microsoft is trying to make is that it is the king of productivity software because it focuses on making it for businesses and not consumers. Basically, it's telling Google to stick to search and keep its nose out of enterprise software.
We think the ad is very funny indeed but wonder if this is direction Microsoft should be taking. What do you guys think?
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Nokia Lumia 719 Receives Bluetooth SIG Certification
February 21, 2012 at 19:35 GMT | By
Remember the Nokia 719 which first appeared in a rumour from a Nokia Finland employee back in December last year. The rumor claimed that both the Nokia Lumia 900 (unconfirmed at that time) and the Lumia 719 will be revealed at CES. However, only the Lumia 900 made an appearance at the event, while no news was announced regarding the Lumia 719. Since then, the Lumia 719 had appeared on OccasionalGamer's statistics page once, although the reliability of the device IDs on this page is questionable.
Well, we can now pull this one out of the rumour box as Bluetooth certification makes this a nailed-on. The device will have a 3.7" ClearBlack Display screen and 5 megapixel camera, which places it in similar category to the Lumia 710 (and also consistent with Nokia's numbering system). The page also mentioned the availability of exclusive content from ESPN and Univision (Spanish-language TV network in the US). Not much else is known about the device except that the device will be targeted for Asia, North America, and for the first time South America, where the current Nokia Lumia series has no presence yet.
Things are warming up nicely for the Mobile World Congress 2012. We can be forgiven for getting a little excited.
Source: LiveSide
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"Smoked By Windows Phone" Footage to Feature in Online Ad Campaign
February 21, 2012 at 12:51 GMT | By
According to the Seattle Times, this week, Microsoft will launch a "Smoked by Windows Phone" ad campaign, a series of online ads challenging those who use iPhones, Android phones or other mobile devices to beat the speed of a Windows Phone in doing a browser search, sharing with their social network or shooting and posting a photo.
The 12 different digital ads featuring the challenge will run on tech sites as well as the Windows Phone Facebook page through the beginning of April.
Also on the Facebook page will be video footage from the original "Smoked by Windows Phone" challenge, which took place at the Consumer Electronics Show in January. There, at the Microsoft booth, CES attendees participated in speed challenges, winning $100 if their smartphone beat the Windows Phone.
The final tally for Windows Phone at the CES challenge: 30 wins, three losses, one tie.
That original challenge and the online campaign launching this week, are examples of a funnier, sharper, more direct and aggressive (and sometimes snarkier) approach to marketing for the software giant generally known for more earnest, wholesome ads.
It could even be seen as the scrappy move of an underdog (which Microsoft is in search and mobile). I personally think this is a brave move that will get people talking. One word; MINDSHARE! What do you think? Leave us a comment at the bottom.
Source: Seattle Times Via WMPoweruser
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Minute of Mango: Adding Ring Tones
February 21, 2012 at 11:31 GMT | By
Watch the video here
Microsoft's Channel 9 kicked off a new tips & tricks video series for Windows Phone yesterday called "Minute of Mango" that's fun and worth watching.
The series, hosted by Laura Foy, is geared toward anybody looking to save time and do more with Windows Phone 7.5. Check out the first episode on making custom ringtones below, then make sure to subscribe or share the series with friends or family. Trust me, they'll thank you. Laura plans to broadcast 3 new tips a week for the next 10 weeks.
Minute of Mango isn't the only great show Channel 9 produces about Windows Phone. For app reviews and suggestions, don't miss Laura's weekly Hot Apps series. If you're an app developer or just curious about what happens here behind the scenes, you'll dig Inside Windows Phone, hosted by Larry Lieberman.
Source: Windows Team Blog
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Microsoft details SkyDrive Metro app for Windows 8
February 21, 2012 at 10:54 GMT | By
Microsoft announced that a SkyDrive Metro app will be available for Windows 8. Windows users were previously able to save files to the SkyDrive website and then had the ability to access and/or share them throughout the Web.
The next release of SkyDrive, however, will combine Live Mesh synchronization service into the file storing and Web service. Microsoft's Building Windows 8 blog states that the new SkyDrive Metro app will have "files integrated into Windows Explorer on the desktop, and have the ability to fetch remote files through SkyDrive.com." The desktop file sync will support files up to 2GB in size, and will provide "easy drag and drop upload and download access to your data, offline access and the power of Windows Explorer to manage files and folders." He's a detailed list of the info:
» Desktop clients coming for Windows and Mac (Windows client confirmed)
» Paid additional storage options coming in multiple increments (mentioned as "the ability to unlock more"}
» New version will be SkyDrive Wave 5 M3
» Bitlocker recovery key storage
» OpenDocument formats (.odt, .odp, .ods) support
» Access files on local computers via SkyDrive app (remote access confirmed)
» URL shortening service
» 300MB file upload size limit via SkyDrive.com
» 17 million SkyDrive users (by comparison, as of last October Dropbox had 45 million)
» SkyDrive stores 10 petabytes of user data, Hotmail stores 100PB
» Windows 8 will "finally bring the DNA of » SkyDrive and Mesh together into one service"
» SkyDrive app for Windows 8
» SkyDrive available to other Metro style apps and the file system through charms and contracts
» Integrated into the Windows 8 Windows Explorer on the desktop
» Full file and folder upload and sync, "no compromises"
» Metro app built using JavaScript, CSS, HTML5, and the JSO
» APIs and JavaScript object model in SkyDrive.com
» Metro app optimized for touch
» Ability to save directly from Windows 8 to SkyDrive
» SkyDrive Desktop app available for Windows 8, Windows 7, or Vista
» Installer less than 5mb, takes 10 seconds to install (not sure if this applies to Win7 or Vista)
» Support for uploading up to 2GB files through Explorer
» Remote access will have a "copy to SkyDrive" feature
» Remote streaming of video full screen photo viewer
» 2nd factor authentication (mobile number or alt. email address) required for remote access
» Changes coming "over the next several months"
The Windows 8 SkyDrive app looks to compete directly with services like DropBox as well as Apple's iCloud. We certainly hope that most of these features will be integrated into Apollo!!
Sources: LiveSide and BGR
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Nokia Carrying Windows Phone on it's Back, All by Themselves...
February 21, 2012 at 00:00 GMT | By
Apparently, the search terms 'Lumia 800' and 'Nokia Lumia' each command more search traffic on Google's engine than 'Windows Phone.' The Next Web came up with this not-so-surprising graphic:
This can obviously perceived in many ways. Either Nokia is doing a dam good job pushing the Lumia range or Microsoft isn't doing enough in the way of gaining mind share.
Alex Wilhelm writing for TNW notes:
The data may indicate that Windows Phone as a whole has not achieved much mental penetration, if one of its newer components has manged to eclipse the larger brand in this way. Of course, to Microsoft, provided that a consumer buys a Windows Phone, whether they searched for Windows Phone proper or that handset matters little; a sale, is a sale.
To that point, Microsoft has a different marketing strategy in place at the moment, compared to its early attempts at promoting its new handset line. Previously, Windows Phone as a whole was touted in expensive televised ad buys. This time around, specific handsets are being given a bigger spotlight. The data that we highlighted above lends credence to this course as efficacious, if only at least for Nokia.
Not all is roses, however. Look at the rise of the Lumia 800, and then compare it to the smaller bump for the Lumia 900. The 900 is Nokia's attempt at a US push, so its search traffic should be constrained by the size of its potential customer base, but at the same time, it's jump does feel a mote minor compared to the Lumia 800 tidal wave.
As much as we like seeing Nokia pushing the boat out for Windows Phone, one cant help but feel that Microsoft is playing a dangerous game here. If Nokia goes on to command 90%+ Windows Phone market-share, who is to say they won't want some control in the direction the OS is developed. What do you guys think?
Source: The Next Web
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1tap2send - Send Preset Messages and E-mails in Double Quick Time
February 20, 2012 at 14:22 GMT | By
Do you ever need to send a quick message/e-mail while driving or in a meeting?
You can do it with 1tap2send, which allows you to pre-compose messages to whoever you wish and then pin then to the start menu. Messages have their own metro-styled tiles. These tiles can be customized with different colors and icons for a quicker overview.
Features:
» Pin to start - each message can be individually pinned to start
» Fresh icons
» Fully customizable templates
» Improved animations and user experience
Download here
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Fujitsu Set to Enter Europe With a Wide Range of Smartphones and Tablets
February 20, 2012 at 10:49 GMT | By
Despite Fujitsu being the first OEM to release a Windows Phone 7.5 (Mango) device with the beautiful-but-stupidly-named Fujitsu IS12T (pictured above), little has been heard from them since. We have always felt that the IS12T was probably the most though out Mango device and quietly hoped it would be made available to the European market. Our wishes seem to have come to fruition, well, sort of.
The Next Web reports that Fujitsu is planning to enter Europe's smartphone and tablet markets this year with the release of a number Android and Windows Phone 7-based devices. According to The Next Web:
Fujitsu has confirmed that it is already in talks with operators about partnering to release the device as it targets double digit market share on the continent over the next three to five years. However, it is not confirmed if the wide range of device will be unveiled at the Mobile World Congress event this month. The company is not new to the mobile telecom industry as it has been producing and selling devices in its native Japan for some time, but its plan for Europe is an attempt to claim a stake a claim in one of the fast growing mobile industries and boost growth overseas
Sounds like the MWC will hit us with a few surprises if this report proves to be correct. Fujitsu will definitely bring unconventional and innovative devices to the Windows Phone line-up with features such as fingerprint readers, LTE and NFC.
Exciting stuff isn't it? What do you guys think?
Source: TNW
Via: WMPoweruser
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Could This be the Nokia Lumia 805?
February 20, 2012 at 10:49 GMT | By
With Nokia's history of recycling its own designs to make Windows Phones, it wouldn't be a surprise if this actually turns out to be the Lumia 805. The Nokia N9, Lumia 800, and the Lumia 900 all look the same while the Lumia 710 and the C7 look very much alike, just to name a few.
The device rendered above looks exactly like the Nokia X7. The image comes from Chinese forums and the specs attached to the render/concept reveal a 3.9-inch ClearBlack WVGA screen, 16GB internal memory, 1450 mAh battery and a 12-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics and dual LED flash. As a quick comparison, the X7 packs a four-inch screen, eight-megapixel camera and 1200mAh battery.
Sounds impressive doesn't it? But the question remains, is this real or a fake?
Source: Baidu
Via: Pocket Now
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Laptopmag Switchers Tell All: Giving Up iOS, Android and BlackBerry for Windows Phone
February 20, 2012 at 10:49 GMT | By
Three LAPTOP staffers gave up their iPhones, Android handsets and BlackBerries for a week. Here's what they thought:
Sherri L. Smith, Staff Writer (Switched from Android)
For me, owning an Android phone sends a message to the world, I'm cooler than the BlackBerry crowd and I'm raging against the Apple iMachine. So I felt guilty leaving my EVO 4G (my first Android love) in my hotel room during CES in favor of a Windows Phone. However, the guilt quickly washed away as I dove headfirst into the HTC Radar 4G. The initial setup of adding the majority of my emails, social networking and multimedia accounts took between 5-7 minutes.Overall, my week with a Windows Phone was fun and informative. I didn't miss my EVO as much as I thought I would and since I'm overdue for an upgrade, I'm seriously considering making the switch. I found the interface to be zippy and intuitive. My only real gripe at this point would be the lack of apps. Overall, I would recommend Windows Phone for anyone looking for a solid user interface at an affordable price.
Oliver Renick, Intern (Switching from BlackBerry)
"Where's the trackball?" That was my first reaction after trading in my BlackBerry for a Windows Phone, and it should demonstrate the technological level at which I operate on a daily basis. For me, stepping up to the HTC Titan on AT&T wasn't just a technology boost,it was a lifestyle upgrade. The Windows Phone operating system is about as far from BlackBerry OS as you can get. My Berry is a giant keyboard; my Windows is a giant, beautiful screen. Windows Phone works like a computer. BlackBerry works like a rusty lever-pull apparatus. The switch between the two is dramatic because it essentially skips an evolutionary step. The ubiquity of the iPhone makes for a smooth transition for even the most archaic phone owners, that's arguably Apple's greatest strength. Google's Android, while different from iOS in content, has a very similar layout.Bottom Line: I've used iOS and I've tested many Android devices. Neither is like Windows Phone. Though WP7 may not be a better technology than those two, it is superior to BlackBerry.
Davey Alba, Staff Writer (Switching from iPhone)
Windows Phone has sparked an almost cultish appeal among folks who work in the tech industry, prompting others to wonder what the attraction is. So when I had the opportunity to do a story on the experience of being a "Switcher" to the Windows Phone, I jumped at the chance. What follows is the opinion of an avid iOS user after substituting her iPhone 4 with a Windows Phone 7.5 handset, the Samsung Focus S.Before I begin, I should share that I'm an apps addict. I have more than 300 apps on my iPhone, all fastidiously arranged in their neat little folders, covering 3 screens on my device. In fact, I'm the designated Apps Girl in the office. Whenever a new or exciting app makes a splash in the market, I'm the writer who will cover it searching, downloading, testing, crashing, complaining and updating.
But like a bubbly new pop song that you initially enjoyed, then thought was okay, then after the 500th airing on the radio made you want to throw the hunk of metal across the room, Windows Phone's gloss wore off.
Bottom Line: As more and more people are dazzled by the Windows Phone UI's slickness, Microsoft could start to close the app gap with Android and iOS. Nokia's scale will certainly help attract more developers to the platform. But at this stage Windows Phone's offerings can't plug the app-shaped hole in my heart.
What do you guys make of this?
Source: Laptop Mag Blog
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Facebook App Finally Updated to v2.3!
February 20, 2012 at 10:49 GMT | By
Hooray!!! Finally, someone has knocked some sense into Clarity Consulting or whoever is now responsible for updating the Windows Phone Facebook App.
We are supposed to be receiving the update sometime today. The app will finally support groups and pages, the ablity to look at who likes your posts, change the banner image and has an improved news feed performance. Here are some of the improved areas in the v2.3 release:-
» News feed performance improvements
» New panorama design.
» New profile design.
» Banner Images.
» Improved navigation.
» Pages
» Groups
» View 'likes'.
» Feed filters.
» Posting privacy.
» Bug fixing
One thing to say here, ABOUT TIME! Let us know what you think when you receive it.
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Is it a Fantasy or a Miracle? Either Way, the LG Windows Phone Makes Another Appearance
February 19, 2012 at 12:49 GMT | By
The LG Fantasy, also known as the LG Miracle, has popped up in an online video ahead of its official launch. Mobilissimo.ro secured footage (below) of the upcoming 4-inch smart phone, which shows LG's new, ambiguously named toy swooping through the Windows Phone interface with acrobatic ease.
The device looks to sport a 5-megapixel camera and a 1GHz processor, alongside LG's Nova display technology. Those specs will put it firmly in the mid-range bracket for smart phones, but that means the price should be a bit lower accordingly.
The back has a rubberised look, rocking a distinctive horizontal stripe across the middle that bears the Windows Phone logo, and while the phone doesn't look all that thin, it doesn't appear too bulky to me. Nokia has really upped the stakes in terms of Windows Phone devices, so I'll be looking for impeccable build quality.
The device was leaked earlier under the LG Miracle guise, though pictures have also emerged of a device that looks remarkably similar to the one featured in the video, along with the 'LG Fantasy E740' name.
Do you guys like this one? Do you think there is a place for LG now that the big boys from Espoo are have arrived?
Source: Mobilissimo
Via: CNET
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WPSuperfanboy.com giving away a ZTE Tania Windows Phone
February 14, 2012 at 14:11 GMT | By
Thats right, we are giving away a ZTE Tania phone. All you have to do is follow us on twitter and/or like our Facebook page and leave a comment at the bottom to say why you should win or whatever comes to mind. Remember, sharing this article on Twitter and Facebook will further boost your chances of winning.
The winner will be randomly picked from Facebook or Twitter. The competition closes on the 29th of February 2012 at midday. The winner will be announced on the website and notified personally. All we ask for is that the winner sends us a video of him/herself unboxing their brand new Tania.
Check out the Tania's form factor here
Remember, you have to be in it to win it. Good luck.
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Nokia Lumia 800 to be Available in Red And Green Versions?
February 13, 2012 at 16:33 GMT | By
Nokia is apparently preparing exciting new colours for the Lumia 800 line. Black, cyan, and magenta were the colors the Nokia Lumia 800 was initially available in. More recently, the white version of the phone has been announced and chances are Nokia is not stopping here. Just before Christmas we've seen hints of more colors to arrive (though it turned out that the device in those slides was the Lumia 900).
Which colours would you guys want to see Nokia release?
Source: PocketNow
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LG Miracle Makes an Appearance
February 13, 2012 at 16:33 GMT | By
A new Windows Phone 7 handset from LG has been leaked ahead of MWC 2012. The LG Miracle (noted elsewhere as the LG Fantasy E740) is a mid-level Windows Phone 7 handset. It's looking set to be the first Windows Phone 7 device from LG since the LG Quantaum and Optimus 7 handsets were revealed at the operating system's launch.
Said to feature a 4-inch WVGA NOVA display capable of deep black levels, it's powered by a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU, has 8GB of built-in storage, a 5MP rear camera with 720p video shooting capabilities and a VGA front-facing webcam.
Connectivity specs include 14.4Mbps HSPA, 5.0GHz-capable 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 3.0. Interestingly, the leak suggest NFC tech will be present too, despite the platform not currently supporting the data transfer standard.
Though late to the party, the Miracle will be a welcome edition to the Windows Phone lineup, in turn offering choice to anyone on the lookout for a new device. What do you guys think?
Source: PocketNow
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Why apps could make Windows Phone the dominant mobile OS
February 13, 2012 at 16:32 GMT | By
Here is some news that will warm many a fanboys' heart. Andrew Hoyle of CNET UK reckons Windows Phone will be a force to be reckoned with in the not too distant future. He acknowledges that Windows Phone hasn't made much of an impact since its launch in 2010 despite all the praise from reviewers, and has trailed miserably behind Android and iOS. According to Andrew, with Windows Phone 8 just around the corner, he reckons its fortunes are about to change.
Andrews writes:-
The problem with Windows Phone is its app store. Both the iOS and Android app stores are chock-full of apps that do pretty much anything you could think of. I won't debate here which of those two are better, but suffice to say they both offer vastly more apps -- at least eight times as many -- than are available in the Windows Phone store.
Although apps certainly aren't the only aspect of a good operating system, they're undeniably a major factor in its popularity. Many apps are now popular enough to be common household names, and so naturally the majority of everyday users will want access to them.
The problem is developers don't want to make more apps until there are more people using Windows Phone -- more customers equal more sales equal more money for them. But us, the customers, don't want to use it until there are more apps available. It's a vicious cycle that's extremely difficult to break, but if Microsoft wants to hit the mobile prime time, it needs to reverse it.
And it just might be able to. Windows Phone 8 is on its way like a runaway train, promising some significant tweaks to the software's underlying architecture that might see the app store quickly filling with all kinds of juicy stuff.
Read more here
Source :CNET UK
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Domino's releases Windows Phone app for UK and Ireland
February 13, 2012 at 16:30 GMT | By
Popular worldwide pizza chain Domino’s has released a new Smartphone app for Windows Phone users in the UK and Ireland.
Domino’s multimedia manager Nick Dutch told eConsultancy that the launch of a Windows Phone app was to keep the company ahead of the game:
"With WP7 we see a great opportunity to get into the hands of loyal Nokia fans, who will be upgrading as WP7 launches."
The app has a bagful of features such as:-
- A Full Menu
- Store Locator
- All Meal Deals available
- Ability to Customise Your Pizza with extra toppings or special requests
- Payment via credit card, cash or on collection
You can download the app here if you are a Dominos pizza fan or maybe for that one time you might fancy a big greasy 15 incher to fill the gap.
Source: The Next Web
Via: WPCental
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Metro Newspaper (UK) Celebrates the Launch of its App by Giving Away 3 Lumia 800s
February 13, 2012 at 16:29 GMT | By
To celebrate the launch of the Metro Online app for Windows Phone, Metro are giving three lucky readers the chance to win a Nokia Lumia 800 handset. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5, the app is already proving a big hit with users. The new Metro Online app makes maximum use of the Windows Phone's intuitive features. You can scroll through Metro's top stories at a glance, jump straight to your favourite channel and even pin category Live Tiles to your Start screen. Keeping up with the latest breaking news and gossip has never been easier. Content is kept fresh with regular live updates and because it's saved in the background - you can even check out articles when you're offline too.
Remember, you have to be in it to win. You can enter here for the chance to land yourself a free gorgeous Lumia 800.
Get the app here
Source: Metro.co.uk
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Angie, Can You Seriously Challenge Siri?
February 13, 2012 at 16:29 GMT | By
At Microsoft Techdays in France xBrainSoft will be showing off their new Siri competitor, Angie.
The app uses natural language input and can give you access to TV programs, read your favourite news, access information related to your social networks (birthday, etc.), translate your words into a foreign language, wake you up in the morning, find a fuel pump, and much more.
xBrainsoft distributes a development kit which allows any developer to create skills for Angie or create their own Personal Assistant.
Have a look at the video above to see Angie in action.
What do you think? Don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom to let us know
Source: Monwindowsphone
Via: WMPoweruser
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Windows Phone Smokes iPhones and Androids at CES'12
February 13, 2012 at 16:27 GMT | By
Just like he told us, Ben '@benthepcguy' Rudolph took a couple of fresh Window Phone Devices to Vegas and pitted the against some iPhones and Android devices.
"We gave away a ton of new phones, lost a little bit of cash ($300, to be exact), and had a great time meeting our fans, haters, and everyone in between," Ben wrote on the Windows Phone blog, adding that Windows Phone beat 30 handsets, lost against three and drew with one.
Among the phones Windows Phone beat were the iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, Galaxy Nexus, Droid Charge, Droid Bionic, the Palm Pre Plus, various models of BlackBerrys, and the AT&T Skyrocket. Ben was beaten by an iPhone 4S and a Galaxy Nexus in races to post a photo to Twitter, while the Droid Bionic got an SMS to a friend faster than his Windows Phone
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