Samsung Galaxy S III shipment delay due to “overwhelming demand and limited supply” resolved

Sprint had warned last week that delivery of the Samsung Galaxy S III smartphone would be delayed because of "overwhelming demand and limited supply." Around the same time, AT&T and Amazon distributor BluTekUSA announced the same.

It appears Samsung Electronics wasn't quite prepared for the wild popularity of its mobile phone. The smartphone-maker has said it was expecting to sell more than 10 million units in the first two months of sale, according to Reuters. Delays in shipping this device may have cost the company 2 million units of sale in just one month.

The Galaxy S III went on sale on May 29 but was quickly confronted with a couple-week shortage on shipments of the "pebble blue" version of the phone. Now, the devices are finally starting to hit stores. Samsung told Reuters that the delay has been fixed and the company is now up to speed in meeting demand.

"It is simply that demand far exceeded our expectation. But that doesn't mean we had set a very conservative demand forecast," Samsung told Reuters.

The timing for the release of Samsung's newest smartphone couldn't be better since the iPhone 5 won't be coming out for a few more months, according to Reuters.

"Samsung might have been caught off guard by the demand, not because they did not believe in their own products, but because they might have over-estimated the competition," Gartner analyst Carolina Milanesi told Reuters. "In other words, aside from the iPhone and HTC's One X, there's not much out there at the moment, which would have certainly helped Samsung."

Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57461162-94/samsung-resolves-galaxy-s-iii-shipping-delays/

Microsoft Unveiled Windows Phone 8 with New Home Screen, Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Skype Integration

It’s been a very busy June for Microsoft, who not only revealed its own Windows 8 Surface tablets on an event in Los Angeles, but recently brought out Windows Phone 8, its next phone operating system at the event in San Francisco with abundant of new wonderful features. As the manager of the Windows Phone program, Joe Belfiore told readers in his blog that “Windows Phone 8 is based on the same core technologies that power Windows 8. As a result, Windows Phone 8 will unleash a new wave of features for consumers, developers, and businesses.” He said the next version of Windows Phone will share the same underlying technology of the Windows operating system that will run on tablets, laptops, and desktops.

Leading the additions to Windows Phone 8 include: New Start screen, turn-by-turn navigation and Skype integration. The home screen or Start Screen, which has rectangular tiles to represent apps, will now allow users to change the tile sizes if they're using the phone for many things at the same time.

Microsoft is making Windows Phone 8 even more personal, with a new palette of theme colors and three sizes of Live Tiles, all of which are under users’ control. As Live Tiles are one of the things current owners really love about their Windows Phones, Microsoft makes them even more flexible and unique. The bellow short video shows the new Start screen in action.

Microsoft is also putting its Skype acquisition to good use in the forthcoming software. Skype and other Voice Over IP (VoIP) services will integrate right into the phone dialer and People or contacts apps. Skype's CEO, Tony Bates, hinted that Skype would also be integrated into Windows 8.

And there's another partnership at work in Windows Phone 8 -- the one between Microsoft and Nokia. The two companies worked closely on Nokia's new Lumia handsets, including the Lumia 900; now they are bringing Nokia's mapping technology to the operating system, including offline maps and turn-by-turn navigation.

Other key features of Windows Phone 8:

* Multi-core processor support: As reviewers have noted, Windows Phone runs buttery smooth on phones with a single processor. But piggybacking on the Windows core provides support for multiple cores—so we’re ready for whatever hardware makers dream up.

* Bigger, sharper screens: Windows Phone 8 supports two new screen resolutions—1280x768 and 1280x720, opening the door to amazing new handsets with high-definition 720p displays. This would mean that users would have more flexible options to watch HD videos on Windows Phone 8 smartphones.

* More flexible storage: Windows Phone 8 supports removable MicroSD cards, so you can stuff your phone with extra photos, music, and whatever else is important to you, and then easily move it all onto your PC.

* NFC wireless sharing: If you haven’t heard the term “NFC” yet, I’m betting you soon will. This emerging wireless technology lets phones share things over short distances. In Windows Phone 8, it helps make sharing photos, Office docs, and contact info easier—just tap your phone another NFC-equipped device. How cool is that?

* Internet Explorer 10: The next version of Windows Phone comes with the same web browsing engine that’s headed for Window 8 PCs and tablets. IE10 is faster and more secure, with advanced anti-phishing features like SmartScreen Filter to block dangerous websites and malware.

* Wallet: Windows Phone 8’s new digital Wallet feature does two great things. It can keep debit and credit cards, coupons, boarding passes, and other important info right at your fingertips. And when paired with a secure SIM from your carrier, you can also pay for things with a tap of your phone at compatible checkout counters.

* Better maps and directions: Windows Phone 8 builds in Nokia mapping as part of the platform. Our partnership will provide more detailed maps and turn-by-turn directions in many countries, plus the ability to store maps offline on your phone so you can work with maps without a data connection.

* Cooler apps and games: Basing Windows Phone 8 on the Windows core will unleash a new wave of amazing apps and especially games, for reasons I’ll touch on in a moment.

Microsoft did not disclose when Windows Phone 8 would be available and start shipping on phones. It did say that those with Windows Phone devices now won't be able to upgrade to the new operating system. The first wave of Windows Phone 8 phones will be made by Nokia, Samsung, and HTC.

iPhone 5 vs Samsung Galaxy S III – To wait for the iPhone 5 or to buy Samsung Galaxy S III

"The Samsung Galaxy S III (S3) is a great phone, but should I wait for the iPhone 5 instead?" This question is quite common for all people who would like to buy a new phone. The Samsung Galaxy S III has been released this month via five carriers, while the iPhone 5 is still about to come. In some ways, the answers are obvious upon your preference. If you prefer one OS over another, have a Mac at home, or need a phone right now. However, if not, there's a lot to like about each platform's superphone, and we can't make your decision for you. So here's what we'll do. We're going to break it down by some of the phone features that we think could help you to decide.

Design: The GS3 also features a Gorilla Glass 2 cover. When it comes to first-class materials, Apple has Samsung beat. That is, if you like glass on both sides of your handset and an industrial look and feel. With the Galaxy S3, Samsung unabashedly sticks to its plastic preference, but has managed to make it look and feel sleeker and more desirable than its past Galaxy S devices.

Size is the other issue. Rumors point to an iPhone 5 with a larger screen, but an only slightly taller profile. Apple's phone would still fit in the hand about the same way. Compare this with the Galaxy S3, which dwarfs the iPhone 4S. We like its smooth, comfortable feel, but some people will simply find it too large.

Screen: Apple has made it abundantly clear that it's obsessed with screen quality. And now that the MacBook Pro is sporting a Retina Display, it's safe to assume the next iPhone will be equipped with the same technology, with which users could even enjoy Blu-ray movies on iPhone 5.

Though the iPhone 4S has the brighter and sharper display of the two phones, the Galaxy S3's HD Super AMOLED display has richer color contrast. Plus its 4.8’ large screen display, thus to watch HD videos on Galaxy S III will also be not inferior to that of iPhone 5. Some argue that the S3's AMOLED screen technology oversaturates, and in some cases we do find that to be true.

Camera: Apple is never one to pass up a chance to lift smartphone camera standards and some rumors about an interchangeable lens and a high-definition front-facing camera would call for another camera showdown. For now, the Galaxy S3 and the iPhone 4S offer the same amount of megapixels, high dynamic range, and zero shutter lag. Thus, we have reason to believe the iPhone 5 would get improvement in camera to bring better camera experience. But if you want something featured-packed, the GS3 has a lot of options. True, we don't know what sort of services the new iPhone will offer, but the GS3 already has panoramic shooting, burst shot, two sharing modes, and other fun shooting settings like "cartoon" (a la "A Scanner Darkly") and "beauty" (a la this-is-not-real-life).

Processor: Samsung and Qualcomm teamed up to put a dual-core Snapdragon S4 processor in the Galaxy S3, which makes it one of the fastest phones in the U.S. Apple is all about advancing its processors with each succeeding model. Rumor is that Apple will promote the 4S' A5 chip to a faster A5X chip. However, don't get too caught up in processor specs (after all, quad-core prowess is still shrouded in myth).

Data speeds：The Samsung Galaxy S3 and Apple iPhone 5 will be evenly matched once the iPhone comes along with its expected (and anticipated!) 4G LTE support. Just keep in mind that not every carrier supports LTE (like Sprint and T-Mobile), and some networks are faster than others.

Availability: Both the Galaxy S3 and iPhone 5 will be easy to get. The Galaxy S3 will be available on T-Mobile, AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, U.S. Cellular, and even C Spire (a regional carrier.) Apple will surely let its carrier-partner gravy train keep rolling with the Big Four, and (way later) down the line, it could also pass the iPhone 5 to Cricket and Virgin Mobile, following by taking the iPhone 4 and 4S prepaid.

Price: In the U.S., the Samsung Galaxy S3 is starting on-contract at $199.99 for the 16GB and $249.99 for the 32GB model (it'll differ by carrier.) As for the iPhone, the 4S on a designated network has a retail price of $199.99 for the 16GB model, $299.99 for the 32GB model, and $399.99 for its 64GB model. And, if the rumors prove true, the newest generation won't be any cheaper.  

Whether or not a phone is right for you depends on a whole bushel of personal values, but the bottom line is that when you compare the main features and specs, you can get the best out of the phones provided.

Microsoft Windows 8 Tablet PC released in both RT version and Pro versions

Just days before, Microsoft claimed to bring a major announcement at the event on June 18^th. By the day evening we finally got what the major announcement the company referred to. The company has brought out a new Microsoft Surface tablet PC for all Microsoft Windows 8 users, the first tablet PC the company has ever made, upon their own brand new Windows 8 operating system. This new tablet PC is claimed to be designed to fully exploit the capabilities of its new Windows 8 operating system. Actually, there will be two models of the Surface tablet PC: RT version and Pro version. The RT version will feature an NVIDIA Tegra processor and the Windows RT version of Windows 8 (devices with ARM chips). While the Pro version features with an Intel Core processor and Windows 8 Pro. Both versions of the Surface feature a 10.6-inch "ClearType Full HD Display" with a 16:9 aspect ratio, VaporMg casing, front and rear cameras, and Wi-Fi connectivity. There's also a built-in kickstand in the rear of the devices.

Differences between RT version and Pro version

The Windows RT-powered version of Surface will come in at 9.3mm thick and will feature a handful of ports, including microSD, USB 2.0 and micro HD video. This model will pack 32GB or 64GB of internal storage and is expected to be available alongside the general release of Windows 8. Microsoft says that it'll announce pricing closer to launch and that it expects the price to be "competitive with a comparable ARM tablet."

Meanwhile, the Surface for Windows 8 Pro is a tad thicker and heavier, checking in at 13.5mm thick and 1.99 pounds. In exchange for the extra size, though, users will be getting a microSDXC card slot, USB 3.0 port and a Mini DisplayPort for video. The Surface for Windows 8 Pro will be available with either 64GB or 128GB of included storage. Expect a launch "about 90 days" after general Windows 8 availability. Pricing will be revealed later but is said to be "competitive" with an Intel-powered Ultrabook PC.

Similarities

Both Surface tablets will be compatible with an accessory that Microsoft calls the Touch Cover, a 3mm thick cover that'll be available in five colors and will attach to the devices using a built-in magnetic connector. Besides serving as a way to protect the Surface, the Touch Cover will also act as a keyboard/touchpad that uses a pressure-sensitive tech that Microsoft says "sense keystrokes as gestures" and allows users to type "significantly faster" than an on-screen keyboard.

Surface has a 10.6", 16:9 widescreen HD Display. Microsoft's ClearType HD Display technology delivers a great picture for movies. An ultra-wide viewing angle makes it easy for your friends to share in the vibrant experience. The auto-adjusting screen intensity delivers great visual clarity, indoors and out. Thus, it produces quite wonderful visual experience for you to watch HD videos on Surface, like watching Blu-ray movies on Surface tablet. The addition of the Micro SD card slot means you can bring your entire movie and music collection with you on vacation.

Even though the Windows 8 has not been released officially, there’re companies like Acer and ASUS announcing Windows 8 tablets. And now, Microsoft announced their own tablet PC to full exploit its Windows 8 operating system. As reported, the debut of the ARM-based Windows RT version of Surface is set to coincide with the launch of Windows 8. Pricing will be in-line with competing ARM tablets. The Intel Ivy Bridge i5-based Windows Pro Surface is slated to follow about three months later in 64GB and 128GB capacities with prices comparable to Ultrabook PCs. Now, let’s just wait for the official debut.

Simple comparison between three operating systems: Apple iOS 6 vs. Android vs. Windows Phone

June is really an exciting months for all smartphone fans. Apple kicked off its WWDC this Monday with the unveiling of iOS 6 for its iPhone and iPad, which was claimed to own more than 200 new features. The only defect of 2012 WWDC is that there’s still no introduction of iPhone 5, which is rumored to most possibly adopt iOS 6, A6 processor, larger screen display, higher screen resolution, etc. to produce better experience for users to watch HD movies on iPhone 5, play games, own better experience in surfing the internet, etc. And also, in this June, Microsoft is expected to unveil the next generation of Windows Phone at an event next Wednesday, June 20, while Google is expected to reveal its plans for the next version of Android, codenamed "Jellybean". What an exciting month it would be!

With the release of iOS 6 and its big improvements, we may want to see which one of the three operating systems would be the best for ourselves. Here, PCworld has just made a comparison chart to show the difference of Apple iOS 6, Android and Windows Phone. Let’s have a look:

While some of the iOS 6 features Apple announced on WWDC already exist on Windows Phone and Android, Apple is putting its own twist on these updates. For example, Siri, Apple's voice-activated virtual assistant, is even smarter now with support for sports, movies, and restaurants. Siri can also directly launch apps, but you still can't control these third-party apps with your voice. What’s more, more languages are supported by Siri in iOS 6, like Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese.

In Ios 6, Apple also launched its own Maps application, which includes local business information, Yelp integration, real-time traffic updates, and turn-by-turn navigation. Naturally, Apple has also added Siri integration to maps. Apple has also added a 3D/fly-over mode to its Maps application, which shows you detailed 3D models of buildings and landmarks.

These updates certainly give Microsoft and Android something to chew on. While both competing platforms offer voice-command support, those features are crude in comparison to Siri's artificial intelligence and natural dictation. Microsoft's Bing Maps could definitely use a revamp in the next version of Windows Phone as its turn-by-turn directions feature is quite clunky (you must tap your phone at each turn).

What iPhone 5 features will be from this WWDC iOS 6 release

Apple has introduced the next best thing to all Apple devices users, the iOS 6, which is claimed to include more than 200 new features. The latest iOS will come out until the fall, and will only work on the iPhone 3GS and models after that, but a lot of iOS 6 features will be welcomed by any iPhone owner.

New versions of mobile software (be it iOS or Android) can often be as feature-packed and exciting as new phone models, and frequently kick a lot of new value down to older hardware. As for the iPhone 5 features and release time, Apple made no clear announcement.

The question is, can we look into the new features of iOS 6 to peer upstream at what Apple's next iPhone might be like? Well, here’re some guesses about the features of the next Apple iPhone, iPhone 5? Maybe.

Mobile Wallet

Passbook doesn't introduce much that isn't already available via other apps, but it's Apple's first baked-in commitment to digital ticket/coupon/account consolidation. The ability to add QR codes and other frequent-user cards may sound small, but if Apple can help pull the general public into using the iPhone as a digital wallet, then this could be the first step toward unlocking NFC and other swipe-to-pay functions in the next iPhone.

4G LTE

Obviously, the next iPhone will have 4G LTE. Duh. FaceTime will support cellular calls, seemingly just in time for these new 4G iPhones. Will FaceTime also support 3G calls? It should, since Skype already does, too.

Siri and Eyes Free: The new Siri

Last year, Siri was packaged as one of the main selling points of the new iPhone. This year, expect an improved, more integrated Siri and Eyes Free voice-control integration in certain cars as another new selling point. Some may have felt burned by Siri's lack of responsiveness or utility in the past, but it seems that Apple is set on making Siri indispensable.

Turn-by-turn navigation

Don't underestimate this feature. Apple's move to own turn-by-turn, rather than offload the responsibility to an app, makes the iPhone (like the 4G iPad) a true navigation device right out of the box. Some of the iPhone's new features, like Siri, have recently been more about software than hardware. Imagine Apple ads this fall focused on lost people finding their way, and so on.

A larger screen?

A bigger screen means better video enjoyment on iPhone 5, like watching HD videos on iPhone 5. Apple's new Maps app has impressive 3D flyover effects that could do with a bigger screen. Maybe this and Safari's new offline reading-list feature could point the way to the new iPhone being touted as "better for reading" or "better for navigation." A new screen is overdue; most of the Android and Windows 7 phone landscape has long since adopted larger displays. Apple would be playing catch-up to the rest of the big-screen phone industry.

Get iOS 6 features and see what features your Apple devices could run

With the approaching of 2012 Apple WWDC, the guessing for the upcoming iOS 6 and the next Apple iPhone has been even fiercer. The iPhone 5 is said to be released mostly this September. Apart from iPhone 5, the iOS 6 has also attracted people’s eyes. People want to know what features iOS 6 would bring and what features their Apple devices could run. If you’re one of them, this post would be right for you.

So you're eagerly awaiting iOS 6 in the fall, but you'd like to know just how many features you'll end up skipping if you cling on to your existing iPad, iPhone or iPod touch for one more generation. Apple has gone to the trouble of alerting would-be upgraders just what features they'll get when they check for the update this fall, and we've compiled it in a chart for an at-a-glance view of what you'll need. The short answer: you'll want an iPhone 4S if you're craving every iOS 6 feature. Some feature gaps are defined by obvious differences like the absence of cellular hardware, but the performance limits of the iPhone 3GS or fourth-generation iPod touch turn their upgrades into a patchwork. There's also a pair of questions about iPod touch support and whether or not "iPhone 4 or later" explicitly rules out the media player; we'll update should we know more. Either way, it's evident that Apple is bending over backwards to support burgeoning markets, but also that anyone who bought in 2010 or earlier is feeling the pressure to pick up something new -- especially original iPad owners, who can't upgrade at all.

Related guides on Apple devices

How to Convert Blu-ray to iPhone 5/4S/4/3GS

How to watch HD videos on new iPad/iPad 2/iPad

Top 5 T-Mobile smartphones for reference

For users who are used to T-Mobile carrier on their smartphones, nothing is better than a good smartphone. Today, I would like to recommend some wonderful T-Mobile customized smartphones. Check the bellow five smartphones to know the details:

HTC One S

HTC's One S is the middle phone in the new One line-up - it's slightly smaller and lighter than the HTC One X, and costs slightly less, but it's got the same camera and HTC's Sense 4 software. The major difference is that it's based on a dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset rather than the One X's quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 chipset. However, the 1.5GHz dual-core MSM8260A "Krait" processor is anything but second-class - in the SunSpider JavaScript benchmark, the One S scored an impressive 1,816, only just slower than the One X's 1,746.

T-Mobile MyTouch 4G Slide

Earlier this month, T-Mobile announced the latest addition to its MyTouch family, the myTouch 4G Slide ($200 with a two-year contract, as of July 15, 2011). The specs look pretty standard for this summer's slew of high-end smartphones: 4G connectivity, a 3.7-inch Super LCD screen, Android 2.3 and a dual-core processor. All of this is great and everything, but what really caught my eye were the camera's specs. In fact, T-Mobile claims that the Slide has the most advanced camera of any smartphone available.

Samsung Galaxy S II(T-Mobile)

Considering the massive screen, the crazy-powerful processor, and the NFC and 4G support, it’s hard not to fall in love with the Samsung Galaxy S II on T-Mobile. Available for $220 with a new two-year contract (as of October 10, 2011), the Galaxy S II is a great phone. It has just a few minor flaws that keep it from being truly amazing.

Samsung Galaxy S Blaze 4G

In a world where smartphone displays are getting more and more gargantuan, the 3.97-inch display on the Samsung Galaxy S Blaze 4G is refreshingly compact. Not everybody needs a 5.3-inch display on their phone (Galaxy Note, I'm looking at you!), and it's nice to see a more pocketable phone for those consumers. In addition, the Galaxy S Blaze 4G ($150 with a two-year contract on T-Mobile; price as of March 20, 2012) has fast data speeds (thanks to T-Mobile's HSPA+ 42 network) and smooth performance powered by a dual-core processor. But regrettably, the phone is riddled with carrier and manufacturer bloatware that you can't easily remove.

HTC Radar 4G

The HTC Radar 4G ($100 with a new two-year contract from T-Mobile; price as of November 9, 2011) isn't a big leap forward for the Windows Phone 7 platform. The Radar 4G does ship with the latest software version, Mango, and it supports T-Mobile's HSPA+ network. But otherwise, the Radar relies mainly on an array of last year's specs. That isn't to say it is a bad phone. Its stylish design and zippy performance, paired with the clean, easy-to-use Mango interface and reliable coverage on T-Mobile's HSPA+ network makes it a solid, yet affordable Windows Phone.

Phone related reading: How to watch HD videos on cell phones

How to fix battery issues after upgrading to iOS 5.1.1

Many people have reflected that the battery life of iPhone is not long enough as expected. In fact, the battery life problem is quite common in all smartphones. Today, let’s take a look on what Joe Aimonetti said about the battery issues, an experienced writer CNet.

Users have been reporting battery issues with their iPhones and iPads after upgrading to Apple's latest iOS update, version 5.1.1. A few simple procedures should get you back on your way.

After Apple's iOS 5.1.1 update was released last week, several users began reporting that their iOS devices had taken a significant battery life hit.

While the issues are not common to most users, it appears as though some iPhone and iPad owners found that the battery life they had come to expect was not apparent after updating to iOS 5.1.1 using Apple's over-the-air updating.

If you find your device is not getting the battery life it once was, a few troubleshooting tips provided by Apple Support Communities user sbaily4 could be of help.

First, be sure you have a good backup of your iPhone or iPad. Plug your device into your Mac or PC, open iTunes, and sync it.

Open Settings and tap to navigate to General > Reset. Tap "Reset All Settings" at the top of the screen. This option does not delete your content (music, videos, photos, or apps) so you won't lose anything important.

Your iPhone or iPad will then prompt you for basic setup information including reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network, as if you had just purchased the device. Now, use your device so that the battery drains completely to zero percent.

Now, plug your device into a power source (preferably a wall outlet) and let it charge, undisturbed, to a full 100 percent. If your battery percentage is not showing up, open Settings and navigate to General > Usage. Under battery usage, flip the switch to On.

This process should resolve any battery issues resulting from the iOS 5.1.1 update, especially if it was performed over the air. If you find that your battery life is still not up to par, plug your device into your Mac or PC, open iTunes, and perform a restore -- first from a backup and then, if that does not resolve the issue, as a new device.

Have you experienced any issues, battery life or otherwise, after upgrading to iOS 5.1.1? Let me know in the comments!


Source from: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-31747_7-57436506-243/how-to-fix-battery-issues-after-upgrading-to-ios-5.1.1/