By: Aldo Panessidi

The Samsung Galaxy S III has been the center of attention in the mobile phone blogosphere the past couple weeks. Leaks and rumors have been dropping left and right.  We comment on the more recent rumors surrounding everything related to the Samsung Galaxy S III.

Quad-core processor: The Korea Times reports the Galaxy S III will feature a quad-core processor.

An anonymous Samsung executive has revealed a bit of news about the upcoming Galaxy S III’s Exynos chip. It comes as no surprise that the Korean manufacturer is using its own chipset for the flagship device. It has for past iterations, and this is what we were expecting.   LTE fans that demand Exynos will be happy to see a reaffirmation from Samsung  that it is gaining LTE-capabilities.

This is a major issue, especially within the US market place... wherein consumers,  have grown fond of the Exynos processors’ performance.   However, in the breadth, Samsung has indicated the need to use Qualcomm processors in order for their devices to be optimized for the LTE networks.

The final whisper seem to allude that the new chipset is said to be a 32 nm silicon A9 quad-core processor, meaning that rumors of it being the Exynos 4412 are probably correct.

Our Take: The way we see it, Samsung has two choices for the Galaxy S III. They either go with the Exynos 4412 (quad-core Cortex-A9) or the Exynos 5250 (dual-core Cortex-A15).   Most people thought the new iPad would be quad-core CPU and they were wrong, and I think Samsung's final CPU choice could also surprise people.

Probability: deploying the Exynos 4412 CPU - 75%... deploying the exynos 5250 CPU - 25%

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Integrated LTE: The Korea Times and other blogs report the Galaxy S III will feature a processor with an integrated LTE modem.

Our Take: Samsung does not integrate modems with their system-on-a-chip (SoC) like Qualcomm does. We have no doubt the Galaxy S III will be LTE-capable and use a Samsung LTE modem - just like the Verizon Galaxy Nexus, but it will not be integrated into the SoC.  Maybe the Exynos 6 series will have integrated LTE, but you will not find it on Exynos 4 chips or Exynos 5250.

Probability:  We view this as a high improbability as such we award a less that 2% possibility

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June release: Numerous blogs are speculating the Galaxy S III will launch in June.

Our Take: Previous reports said the Galaxy S III would launch in April, then May, and now the latest guess is June. Samsung previously said the successor to the Galaxy S II would be unveiled at “separate Samsung-hosted event in the first half of the year, closer to commercial availability of the product.” While we have no idea when the Samsung Galaxy S III will be releases , we are pretty confident to see the launch in June 2012

Probability: We have been hearing the same rumors - we rate this as 90% truth factor

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Wireless charging from 1-2 meters away: Korean site Daily reports the Galaxy S III will feature wireless charging that works with a dock from 1-2 meters away.

Our Take: Several current phones already feature wireless charging, so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see as part of the Galaxy S III feature list. I find it really hard to believe it would work from 1-2 meters (3-6ft!) away though. The current inductive charging standard Qi only works when the charging receptacle is almost touching the device.

Qualcomm was working on a propriety technology called WiPowerthat increased the distance between the transmitter and receiver coils by a couple of inches, but the charge had to be transferred though another material like plastic or wood. They previewed this technology at CES 2011, but it never came to market. I heard reports from the Qi group that there were concerns of electro-magnetic radiation when the transmitter and receiver coils are not close together.

I’d be surprised if Samsung solved this radiation problem when Qualcomm couldn’t, and I still have my doubts of this remote charging feature.  It would be awesome if they discovered a safe way to do this, but I don’t see it happening this soon.

Probability: We award this slim 10% possibility

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By Aldo Panessidi

The telecommunications conglomerates of the United States are in a continual battle to win and retain customers with any number of promotions, gimmicks, technology and good old fashioned monopolistic practices.  practically all service providers engage customers by luring them with the latest smartphones and tie them in exclusive long term (typically 3 year contracts) which they provide voice and data service at exorbitant costs.

In an era where there is a rapidly shrinking pool of “green field” customers that are not tied to a mobile carrier or cell phone provider, these carriers have to keep pace with one another.

With this in mind, it is little wonder that T-Mobile has a rumor floating about regarding its cell phone plans.

According to TmoNews, there are training materials being circulated in the company that give credence to the gossip that the country’s fourth largest wireless provider will finally be adding an “Unlimited Any Mobile” phone plan.

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The add-on is expected to be available early next month and can be added to existing T-Mobile plans for a reasonable $10 a month. The one caveat is that there are some exceptions to plans this can be tacked on to. The good news is that there are no additional contractual agreements that need to be signed to enjoy the freedom of unlimited mobile to mobile talk time.

AT&T customers currently have this kind of plan available when choosing a contract that includes unlimited text messaging and Sprint users have long enjoyed the benefit of free mobile to mobile.  But, as we move from call-centric mobile usage to increased messaging (SMS or MMS) one wonders if this is too little too late to retain and win back lost customers.

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Hopefully, with the latest LTE 4G capable Nokia phones and up and coming tablets, T-Mobile will find its footing once again and keep the mobile market competitive and prevent technological monopolization that leaves consumers as the loser when their choices in plans, contracts and unlocked devices become more limited in their search for the best technology.

By John Castell

T-Mobile is looking to make bold moves that could potentially be game changers. In an increasingly competitive field that is being predominantly shaped both technology and device manufacturers rather than the telecommunications companies themselves, it is any wonder that T-Mobile is looking to change the game than continue to struggle with the rules of engagement as they currently stand.

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So, when T-Mobile’s chief marketing officer, Cole Brodman voiced strong opinions relative carrier subsidies by claiming they adversely affecting the mobile industry... his words had deep and reverberating echoes.

According to Mr. Brodman, these subsidies are doing more damage than good to the mobile industry. He explained it as “It actually distorts what devices actually cost and it causes OEMs, carriers — everybody to compete on different playing fields, and I think it is really difficult, especially from a consumer perspective, because it causes consumers to devalue completely the hardware they are using […] It is amazing hardware, but it has become kind of throw away. So, it is unfortunate, you’ve got dual-core, multiprocessor devices with amazing HD screens that get thrown away at 18 months.”

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And to be fair, he has a point. We live in an era of consumption and instant gratification. If something new comes out, we want the bragging rights of being the first of our friends and family to have said technology - the Apple product lines exemplifies this consumer appetite.  The subsidies make it easier to underuse and undervalue the hardware in our hands because it is relatively easy and inexpensive to replace when signing multi-year contracts with purchase. Still, there are battery, memory and other accessories that, Cole Brodman, spoke at the most recent GeekWire technology summit in Seattle and voiced opinions about carrier subsidies that are contrary to the norm, it was an expectedly unexpected move t can extend the life and functionality of these devices.

In fact, this may well be revolutionary talk to the current regime. With unlocked cell phones consumers can choose a carrier based on service and best plans. If the telecommunications carriers played by that game, consumers would have more choice and carriers could do what they do best: provide service at a reasonable price.

If the other carriers choose to not follow suit, this kind of move is risky. Brodman believes that if subsidies are removed, the company could compete without the iPhone 4S series as they “have fantastic alternate choices” spanning Android, Windows, and RIM platforms.

By John Castell

Apple today issued invitations to the media for an event next Wednesday, March 7, where it's expected to launch the next generation of Apple tablet the - iPad 3.  Invitations to join this corporate event to be held in San Francisco were received by bloggers and reporters alike.

Apple will host the launch event at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco, a regular venue for the company's press-only announcements and where former CEO Steve Jobs introduced the iPad 2 on March 2, 2011.

Most experts believe the iPad 3 will feature a higher-resolution screen, a faster processor - perhaps Apple's first quad-core - and more internal memory. They have been split on whether the new tablet will support the faster LTE data networks like those now being deployed in the U.S. by Verizon and AT&T.

Apple’s iPad 3 is expected to feature a high-definition 2,048 x 1,536-pixel Retina Display, a new quad-core Apple A6 processor, a more powerful battery, embedded 4G LTE connectivity, an 8-megapixel camera and an exterior design that is very similar to the current iPad 2 but with a slightly modified case. New features tied to the next major build of Apple’s mobile platform are expected to be on display next week as well, and we took a quick hands-on look at iOS 5.1 earlier this month.

The following video provides an insight into the Top 5 Features expected in the iPad3

Apple has not said anything about the price of the new iPad -- some recent rumors have claimed it will cost about $80 more than current models -- when it will go on sale or even the official name of the tablet.

By Aldo Panessidi

HTC Media Link’s maiden voyage at last year’s Mobile World Congress did not make much of a splash. The second go-around at this year’s MWC out-razzles and out-dazzles its predecessor. The HTC Media Link is a WiFi adapter that lets consumers make use of their HDTV to stream video, music, and pictures via DLNA.

That basic concept hasn’t changed since last year, but the product has been significantly refined to improve the end users’ experience. And, with the 2012 version you can wirelessly stream your phone display – oh the possibilities! With fairy godmother-like precision, a three-finger swipe of the display on the HTC One X or HTC One S will magically bring your display to the big screen via the Media Link.

This means bringing your web browsing session to the TV, or your Angry Birds game, or your email, or your applications. What is really magical about this year’s device is that you can show a feature film streaming from your phone to your home theatre. Does this mean you have to be phone free while the film is being shown? No sir! With a simple touch of the home button, this wonderful piece of smartphone gadgetry and accessorizing lets you continue to use your cell phone. Including phone calls!

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To bring the smartphone display back to the palm of your hand, another downward swipe of three fingers on the display will do the trick. For HTC fans that want to maximize the utility of their devices without adding to the tech clutter in the home, this could be the alternative to a docking station.

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While there have not been announcements around the availability of this nifty accessory, anyone who uses the media player functionality, apps, games and the many other capabilities of their HTC will add this to the must-have accessory list when suiting up their new HTC One S or HTC One X this spring.

By Aldo Panessidi

Last December, Sony released an alpha Android 4.0 ROM... now they are regaling us with more ice cream sandwich goodness.  Sony has released the beta version of this ROM for select Sony Xperia devices

While this update comes with much more functionality than its predecessor, it still lacks very important features.   Some of the more prominent added features include activated GSM modem, FM radio, updated UI, beefed up lock screen and a quick dialer.  Being able to access GSM networks is probably the most important, consumer utilizing this  ROM will now be able to make calls... precisely what phone is designed to do.

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There are important features that are lacking, though, since Sony is still waiting for approval in order to activate them. Such include WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as access to Google Apps including the Android market. Hopefully Google will give them the okay soon, and Android 4.0 will be in the wild before too long.

This beta version is aimed at developers, as Sony does not intend this incomplete ROM to be used as a daily driver. Regardless, it could be fun for the more adventurous Android user to check out what Ice Cream Sandwich will be like on Sony hardware. If you happen to be the proud owner of an Xperia Arc S, Xperia Ray, or Xperia Neo V, this ROM is available for your flashing needs.

By Aldo Panessidi

Verizon may still be blushing a bit from its “free” PR blurb on Saturday Night Live the other weekend for its convoluted explanations and advertising of its 4G LTE network.   Luckily for the telecommunications giant, Verizon is looking to get a bit more positive press this week with the Android 4.0.3 update whispers for its Motorola DROID RAZR. And based on the leaked images to date, the details on the new user interface are much needed improvement over the most recent UI images of the MotoBLUR.

Watch this video for additional insight on the Motorola DROID RZR ICS

If you compare the images between the two Motorola devices, it is clear that the handset manufacturer has done an overhaul. Resplendent with the much touted Android 4.0, most of the custom skin has been removed to better let the ICS Holo theme come through. Motorola has made its mark on the home screen and the app launcher. This translates into custom icons verses the stock Android 4.0 icons and additional functionality in the app launcher which permits the end user to sort applications by groups (something this writer has yet to figure out how to do on an iPhone). And, if you are really inclined to customize, there are any number of personality-sparking protective cases to pick from.

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In going further than skin deep (pardon the double entendre), the OS of the DROID RAZR bears more marks of Motorola’s tampering of Ice Cream Sandwich. The settings, camera, and lock screen are all clearly marked with classic MotoBLUR aesthetics with stylistic touches from Android 4.0.

With Google Android’s complicated, global web of manufacturers and distributors, the challenge is quite often “thanks for all the hype. Now where is my OS update?” So to properly set expectations, we checked the official Motorola Android 4.0 update list which still has the Verizon DROID RAZR update eligibility tagged as “under evaluation.” The international version of the handset is expected to get its update in the second quarter.

But, ever the optimist, there is still the chance that Motorola and Verizon will bring a tasty Ice Cream Sandwich DROID RAZR to the United States sometime this quarter. With good luck and even better planning Motorola could beat HTC to the punch and be the first vendor to push out an OEM update for Android 4.0

As always, with the plethora of carriers, unlocked devices, and mobile OS options now on the market, the world is your oyster to choose your next smartphone!

By Aldo Panessidi

Today Apple can seemingly do no wrong. But if you think back a couple of years, you will likely recall the fuss made around the iPhone4 and the unheard of design flaw that had jaws flapping. Honestly, it had been ages since the incident had crossed my mind. And unfortunately for Apple, Antennagate has reared its ugly head once again.

The silver lining for the tech darling is that this time the reminder comes in the form of a bookend on the class-action lawsuit that had been levied against Apple after the 2010 iPhone 4 release that caused some serious problems for customers trying to actually use their iPhones to speak with others. Some users noticed that when the strip along the side of the handset was covered it would result in a loss of signal and eventually a dropped call.

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To stem the tide of a disgruntled public, Apple offered free Bumper cases for iPhone4 buyers. Alas, they were only available through September 30, 2010 which did not appease those who had waited in line and paid a premium for the long-awaited iPhone4 – hence, the multiple lawsuits filed against Apple.

So those iPhone customers who felt cheated because of the time limit on free bumper cases will be pleased to hear that the class-action lawsuit against Apple translates into either a free Bumper case or $15 cash to iPhone4 customers in the United States. Personally, my iPhone4 is already enshrined in the protective case of my choosing. But, the $15 cash is a great incentive to buy the new running accessories or headset I’ve had my eye on.

To claim the reward of your choice, visit www.iPhone4Settlement.com (it is not yet up and running). The website will provide information on how customers can receive their free case or get the cash in hand. In case you forget, Apple will be required to send reminder emails to iPhone4 users prior to April 30^th.

Thankfully this design flaw was addressed with the iPhone 4S and the tech company continues to bring its signature innovation and style to consumers with products like the iPad that have made it the success story to date and an industry leader, not a follower.

By Megan Fleet

With LG’s Optimus Vu and Samsung’s Galaxy Note launching  this year two concerns come to mind:

1. With a device this size having these specs... is it a smartphone or is it a tablet or is it a little bit  of both - to coin a new phrase smartabletphone
2. Do they really expect customers to hold this handset (overall dimensions of the Vu are 139.6 x 90.4 x 8.5mm) to speak on the phone for any length of time? At least the latter bodes well for Bluetooth headsets.

In addition to being a “multimedia lover’s dream device” - the phone features a 5-inch 1024 x 768 IPS display, a 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm processor, an 8-megapixel camera, and will support LTE. What's new is the storage capacity — the phone will come with 32GB of storage — and the full dimensions. The phone measures in at 5.49 inches by 3.55 inches, making it wider than the already substantially-sized Galaxy Note, but thinner at just 0.33 inches thick (8.5mm). Taking another cue from the Note's playbook, the Vu introduces the 'rubberidium' stylus pen as well.

As an alternative to the Galaxy Note, we are looking forward to seeing the product launch. In its press release, LG stated the Optimus Vu “boasts unmatched productivity. Its unique built-in QuickClip hotkey allows users to conveniently capture screenshots and memos with a single push. Jotting notes is also possible with a finger or with the dedicated Rubberdium pen”.

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While this Android newcomer will initially come with OS 2.3 Gingerbread, an Ice Cream Sandwich update is en route. Also, before giving us a peek of this handset at the Mobile World Congress LG confirmed that the Vu will be available at Korea’s SK Telecom carrier in early March. As an LTE-enabled device, this could very well be seen in Canada later this year, but there have been no details around carrier availability or if the handset will be available unlocked.

Keep reading and we will keep you posted!

By Aldo Panessidi

With the Mobile World Congress on the horizon, the top smartphone vendors (Apple, Blackberry, HTC,  LG Mobile, Motorola, Nokia, Samsung and Sony) are ramping up products that were introduced and released earlier this year and fine tuning the messaging for the upcoming event that will give them the opportunity to leverage the publicity, innovative mobile accessory launches that accompany these global gatherings. So, Samsung is in a great position to capitalize on the momentum on the world stage for its latest international device, the Samsung Galaxy Note.

As with other Samsung offerings, this unlocked cell phone has gone through a series of transformations before reaching the shores of North America and will align with its American siblings in certain areas. With four touch sensitive buttons under the screen and a Snapdragon S3 chipset under the hood, the 1.5 GHz dual-core Scorpion processor is a differentiator from the Exynos silicon found in the global version of the handset.

And, with the added LTE connectivity, S Pen (stylus and pen), and large 5.3” Super AMOLED screen, this device looks to create its own niche and make its own waves in the mobile device industry. There is a slew of features that make this smartabletphone a good fit for some customers including a microSD slot (a nice consideration for a device that is likely to eat up a lot of storage), video recording in 1080p that has USB host and TV-out support, and full Flash support which is definitely sought out in media playing devices. The specs are long and worth checking out, but I would venture to say that the peripheral devices and accessories that will come along with this device will also be key.

The size of the handset will make headsets and Bluetooth devices all the more imperative for those customers using the Galaxy Note as one-handed use is bound to be tricky. Purchase of a protective accessory that precludes the need to fit this smartabletphone in your pocket is also a likely necessity. All in all, Samsung has created a device that answers the needs of consumers who are looking to consolidate the number of devices they tote around. The functionality will please many, but to truly get the most from this handset, customers will have to plan carefully and invest in the best accessories and peripheral devices to fit their usage and lifestyle – all of which we look forward to seeing and reviewing at the MWC!