Nokia's Mail on Ovi and Email service Upgraded

Mail on Ovi, the free email account from Nokia, is now 'live' and can be set up directly on Nokia phones without requiring a PC to get started. People who use Nokia Series 40 devices can create their own email address directly on their mobile phones. The Ovi email account gives a person all the features and functionalities of a typical PC-based email account. During the Beta period, consumers will be able to choose from 12 languages based on the settings of their device, including English, French, Hindi and Bengali amongst others.




"We're creating a mindset shift with mobile messaging. Mail on Ovi is the first-ever email service which allows people to create an account directly on their mobile phone, and start using it right away" said Senior Vice President Tom Furlong, who oversees Consumer Messaging initiatives within Nokia's Services & Software organization. "Rather than focusing purely on push email for the world's most advanced mobile users, we are mobilizing email across Nokia's mainstream device portfolio, while giving consumers in emerging markets their first email account, Mail on Ovi, as well as their very own internet identity. These people are the new 'mobile digital natives' who will exclusively use their mobile phones for email and internet, rather than a PC."

Mobile phone users from India, Malaysia and the Philippines have been able to use the Beta service since November, with extremely encouraging results, and the availability is now being extended to the rest of the world with the exception of a few courtiers not yet be supported during the Beta period

Nokia has launched more than 35 Nokia Series 40 device models which immediately enable the creation of the Mail on Ovi email account.

For more information and to check the compatibility of your device click here.

Reports are also out that Nokia’s Email service is no longer in its beta stage but has successfully graduated. As of now there is not yet support for HTML emails but that’s a work in progress. For now the service is available in a few countries like the United Kingdom, Singapore and Germany amongst others.





The new version will of course have support for more S60 devices; Yahoo! Mail and up to ten email addresses. Other features will include -

* Support for Google Apps hosted email and other vanity domain email
addresses
* Support for subfolders for IMAP email accounts
* Flagged messages will automatically become starred messages in Gmail
* More intuitive inbox navigation via a discoverable control bar
* Faster opening of inbox
* Sent email will be synced to your Webmail’s sent folder for all email
addresses

Intex Launches 'All Weather' Handset

Intex's, has added the IN 3030 – "all weather" music phone to their range of mobile handsets. The phone is a complete music gizmo equipped with water, sweat & dust resistant technology.

"Intex is all set to make a noticeable mark in the segment by striking a chord with two of the most important user categories in the segment. This includes music lovers on the move and the masses on the street seeking protection of their handset in a high temperature, high humidity and dusty environment." said Shailendra Jha, DGM, Intex Technologies.




Equipped with features that include a music player, FM radio, voice & and an audio recorder with an apparent rugged feel, this handset has the potential to be exactly what individuals interested in traveling and sporting activities would find extremely handy. It’s also designed to cater to the common man - farmers, fishermen, factory and construction workers, etc.- who normally use the phone with sweaty and dusty hands. IN 3030 conforms to the Japanese JIS (IPX grade 5) standard for water resistance. The electronic circuitry is protected by a special film and all the joints are effectively sealed by rubber gaskets. As a result, the phone can withstand dust, moisture and water splashes. It is also designed to perform at very low and very high temperatures with high humidity. Other features built into the handset include a mobile tracker and expandable memory up to 1GB, etc. The handset has been launched at a special introductory price of Rs. 3,500.

Konami to Release New Games for iPhone

Konami will make downloads of Metal Gear Solid Touch, DanceDanceRevolution S Lite, Silent Hill The Escape and Frogger for the iPhone and iPod touch progressively available from later this month. Metal Gear Solid Touch is an original game that brings to life the world and characters of Metal Gear Solid 4 Guns Of The Patriots (MGS4). Direct control through the touch panel allows players to control movement of characters and their alignment as well as switching to zoom mode. Each stage's location and characters are based on the story of MGS4. The initial download will contain 8 stages, with additional stages to be added later. There are many ways to enjoy the game as points earned by clearing stages unlocks images and wallpapers from the Metal Gear series.

DanceDanceRevolution S Lite is a music game where you tap the arrow icons that appear at the bottom of the screen in time with music.

Silent Hill The Escape is a first-person 3D shooting game that lets players utilize the control features only found on the iPhone and iPod touch such as moving their character by sliding a finger across the touch panel screen and changing alignment to target enemies using the built-in altimeter.




Frogger is a simple game where the player moves a frog 360 degrees to cross roads and rivers while avoiding obstacles. Konami has also launched Touch KONAMI, their website designed specifically for introducing applications aimed for the iPhone/iPod touch. This site details playing instructions, features, prices, and release dates for each game and is also scheduled to display animations and reviews later on. DanceDanceRevolution S Lite, Silent Hill the Escape and Frogger will be released prior to Metal Gear Solid Touch later this month.

MSI To Launch 3 New Wind Models

MSI has introduced a measure of success with Wind and is all set to launch a whole bunch of Wind netbooks according to this report here. The models which are about to be introduced include Wind U115, U110 and U120H. All three are 10-inch netbooks based on Intel Atom processors and sport MSI’s facial recognition software Easyface.




The U115, the flagship model based on Intel's next-generation Poulsbo chipset with Atom Z530 processor, offers 2GB DDR2 RAM, UMA Graphics, an SSD, 802.11a/b/g/n wireless, and Bluetooth. The U120H is however built on the older 1.6GHz Atom processor, has 1GB of system memory, UMA graphics, up to 160GB HDD, 2.0Mp webcam, Bluetooth, HSDPA, and 4in1 card reader. The U110 is similarly spec’d, except it sports a 250 GB HDD.

MSI seems to have beaten everyone else to the market with a new netbook product yet again. The U115 with its dual-core processor ability looks to be a highly intriguing product and we here at Tech2 can’t wait to get our hands on it.

QUAKE III Hits S60 Mobiles

From the mobile gaming section the latest reports are that the once popular multiplayer First Person Shooter, QUAKE III Arena can be played on a Series 60 (3rd edition) Symbian device. The handset should be equipped with a TI OMAP 2420 processor though.




To make things interesting Bluetooth features have been tossed into the mix. In this context, a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse. Although it hasn’t been confirmed yet, the game just may be enabled for actual multiplayer gaming by accessing a game server.

The developer of the other QUAKE ports Olli Hinkka has put this into action. Some of the handsets that should support the game include Nokia N95 8GB (only), Nokia N82 and Nokia E90.

Samsung Launches Handset For Pre-Teens

I’m not entirely sure if this is good news, bad news or just ‘news’ news but Samsung has recently launched a new handset - The Tobi S3030 slider phone - that’s apparently designed and directed toward the pre-teen market. Of course it would be irresponsible to assume that that’s their prime demographic, considering the release also states that it’s for ‘young adults, and anyone who desires to experience fun and safety features from their mobile phones’.

The handset is available in colorful variations (Sweet Pink, Bright Orange, Loyal Blue, Oasis Blue, Apple Green and Snow Silver with interchangeable back covers) and is reportedly made from non-toxic recyclable and biodegradable bio-plastic. It’s painted using non-toxic paints and non-allergic materials to keep the environment as well as the health of the users safe. Does this mean that kids can safely shove this up their nose, or bite on it without the materials causing them any harm? Hopefully. Additionally, the earphone is also made of eco-friendly materials without any polyvinyl chloride (PVC).



The Tobi is quite an equipped handset that comes with a 1.3MP camera, audio player, Bluetooth (with BT messaging), a 1.9-inch TFT display (176×144 pixels, 65k colors), GPRS and microSD card support. What’s supposed to make the handset so enticing are the GUI colorful themes - Monster theme, Snowman theme and Ocean World theme as well as the interchangeable cover with a transparent portion at the back for inserting a photograph.

It’s a light-weight phone at just 85g so I’m presuming it’d be easy to misplace or break too, unless the company has thought of that and it comes equipped with Samsung’s resident Mobile Tracker software and is made of some truly rugged yet ‘eco-friendly’ material. But jokes aside, the handset does come with safety features that include - SOS Call, SOS Message and a feature called Fake Call. Using these safety features, users can be directly linked to their family members and friends in emergent situations and even “easily escape from dangerous situations”. I’m not sure how, but that’s what the release says.

The handset will be out sometime this month in the Europe sector and could make its way to Asia soon after that. There’s no price mentioned yet.




There are probably a slew of arguments for a scenario that arises out of a pre-teen requiring a cell phone. While a mobile handset can in no way be construed as a mere toy and there are innumerable handsets that are directed at the youth in general, the S3030 is just another electronic gizmo for a slightly younger generation. Whether or not it’s relevant is something for you to decide.

I’m curious, and I’m sure most of you mobile maniacs out there are too, to find out what everyone thinks of a mobile phone for kids. But before posting your comments do stop to think of the security features etc. that the handset comes with.

Samsung and Hugo Boss Reveal New Handset

Fashion houses are still fighting their way into the mobile industry and the latest to make its break after big names like Giorgio Armani with Samsung and Prada with LG, is Hugo Boss who’s also gone with Samsung. Of course the handset's designs don’t seem be getting any more interesting than they initially were. A few edges trimmed here a slightly larger display there, a few buttons rearranged and voila, a brand new handset that doesn’t look too different form the last.




According to reports, Samsung hasn’t even gone with a new design; instead Hugo Boss has simply opted for a variant of the F480 TouchWiz for their flagship model. The handset will come equipped with a 2.8-inch TFT touch screen display, 3G connectivity, Bluetooth with a customized Bluetooth headset as an accessory, and a 5 megapixel auto focus camera. The interface is apparently going to be customized for Hugo Boss as well.




And keeping in tune with the pretend that the world is not really undergoing a recession, the handset is due to hit shelves in Europe through the company’s official outlets this December for the price of Rs. 30,255. Hey if you got it… flaunt it right.

Sonim XP3 Most Rugged Handset Yet

For the rugged outdoors-techie Sonim Technologies has got exactly what you need. Noted for their earlier totally rugged handset that we talked about last year, the XP1, their latest offering is the Sonim XP3 Enduro that takes it up a notch.





The handset, according to the company can be kept underwater (up to 1 meter) for almost 30 minutes. It will also be able to survive a drop from 2 meters onto a concrete surface. Some of the other specs that the company has provided on their website include an IP-57 protection rating and an 810F Military grade rating for salt, fog, humidity, transport and thermal shock. The keyboard buttons are tested to function beyond 500,000 pushes while the Sonim XP3 is capable of operating as long as it's needed under temperatures ranging from -20C to +60C. It also comes with an anti-glare, shock-resistant display. As compared to the previous model, the XP3 is a little thicker (24.6mm) than its predecessor.





The company has provided users with a three year warranty with no questions asked. It’s priced at approximately Rs. 18, 316 (290 Euro) and while it may not be available here right now, we can only hope that in a regularly monsoon drenched country like ours, the company may just decide to ‘drop’ it in on us.

Nokia Unveils 5800 XpressMusic in India

Nokia India has unveiled its much awaited "Touch Music" device, the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic, in India.



Also announced is the scheduled launch of the beta version of the Nokia Music Store.

Nokia has also announced a tie-up with Universal Music Group, Sony BMG, EMI, Warner, Tseries, Big Music and Yashraj.

Anssi Vanjoki, Executive Vice President, Nokia said, "With more than 300 million music enabled devices sold, and a strong base of over 10 Nokia Music stores in operation globally, Nokia has been able to gain incredible amount of knowledge and insights on what people want in a music device and track important trends on how people consume music. We will continue to break new grounds in this space by building more and better services for our consumers."

D. Shivakumar, Managing Director, Nokia India said, "As Nokia's first mass-market device with a touch screen, the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic turns a 'user interface' into a 'human interface' by truly putting people first. When it comes to music phones, people all over the world want a device that is a great music experience – with more memory, loud and powerful speakers, easy synchronization – and must still work well as a mobile phone with direct access to important contacts and content. The iconic Nokia 5800 XpressMusic delivers on all these counts."




The Nokia 5800 XpressMusic along with offering a variety of input methods including a virtual alphanumeric keypad and a virtual computer-style QWERTY keyboard, also has a pen stylus and a plectrum.

It introduces the 'Media Bar', a drop down menu that provides direct access to music and entertainment. The Media Bar also offers a direct link to the Web and to online sharing. The phone offers all the music essentials, including a graphic equalizer, 8GB memory, support for all main digital music formats and a 3.5mm jack. It has built-in surround sound stereo speakers and the innovative 'Contacts Bar' lets consumers highlight four favorite contacts on their home-screen and, through a single touch, track a digital history of recent text messages, emails, phone logs, photos and blog updates.

The phone features a 3.2-inch widescreen display, a 16 by 9 aspect ratio and 30 frames-per-second playback and recording.

Equipped with a 3.2 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss lens, the phone allows images or videos to be shared via online communities, such as Share on Ovi, Flickr, or Facebook. Music playlist song titles can also be shared through Bluetooth, MMS or online sharing.

The device will be available in India starting January 2009 for Rs. 21,839.

The Nokia Music Store, an online music service is a part of OVI and will go live in December 2008.

Motorola QA30 Has Slide Out QWERTY Keypad

According to reports Motorola has a new 'Q' series device that should be out as a CDMA phone in the US with their Alltel operator. The device, called the QA30, looks quite sharp with a slider form factor that has a bit of a twist. The keypad that slides out from under the 2.5-inch TFT LCD (240 x 320 pixel resolution) display is QWERTY.




The MOTO QA30 will also come with a 2MP camera, microSD card support for external memory, USB 2.0, Bluetooth 2.0, Facebook access, full HTML support as well as a standard 3.5mm earphone socket for the handsfree. There are no more details about the OS, the pricing or the availability of the device. For now word is, the QA30 will be launched only in the USA.

HP Launches Multi-touch Consumer Tablet PC

HP has announced the industry's first convertible notebook PC with multi-touch technology designed specifically for consumers.

Building upon the touch innovation HP developed for its TouchSmart desktop PCs, the HP TouchSmart tx2 Notebook PC was developed for people on the go.

The enhanced HP MediaSmart digital entertainment software suite on the tx2 allows users to more naturally select, organize and manipulate digital files such as photos, music, video and web content by simply touching the screen.

"Breezing through websites and enjoying photos or video at the tap, whisk or flick of a finger is an entirely new way to enjoy digital content on a notebook PC," said Ted Clark, senior vice president and general manager, Notebook Global Business Unit, Personal Systems Group, HP. "With the introduction of the TouchSmart tx2, HP is providing users an easier, more natural way to interact with their PCs, and furthering touch innovation."

The tx2 recognizes simultaneous input from more than one finger using "capacitive multi-touch technology," which enables the use of gestures such as pinch, rotate, arc, flick, press and drag, and single and double tap.

The convertible design with a twist hinge allows consumers to enjoy the TouchSmart in three modes - PC, display and tablet. With a rechargeable digital ink pen, users can turn the tx2 into a tablet PC to write, sketch, draw, take notes or graph right onto the screen – and then automatically convert handwriting into typed text.

Starting at less than 4.5 pounds, the tx2 has a 12.1-inch diagonal BrightView LED display and an HP Imprint "Reaction" design.

In an effort to provide consumers with rich content through the Internet, HP has expanded its partnership with MTV Networks (MTVN) by offering video content from 10 television channels and online brands within MediaSmart's TV module.

Beginning in December, users can enjoy all the best content from Nickelodeon, MTV and Comedy Central. MTVN also plans to make content from Atom, CMT, GameTrailers, Logo, Spike, The N and VH1 available within MediaSmart's TV module.

Powered by the AMD Turion X2 Ultra Dual-Core Mobile Processor or AMD Turion X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor and built on Windows Vista Home Premium, the tx2 will be made available worldwide in an array of configure-to-order options.

The HP tx Series Notebook Stand elevates the tx2, enhancing its usability while stationary, including making it possible to put the PC in an upright position for full interactivity with the touch screen.

The HP TouchSmart tx2 is available at starting price of $1,149.

Moto VE66 Announced

Motorola has announced the MOTO VE66 with enhanced CrystalTalk audio technology, a 5-megapixel camera and MP3 player-like navigation.

The slider device also boasts the first widgets integration on a Motorola mobile device.

"The MOTO VE66 delivers on consumer’s demand for more personalized listening and imaging experiences on a mobile phone," said Tracey Koziol, corporate vice president, Mobile Devices, Motorola. "With a diverse multi-media experience, the VE66 truly enables you to make a statement and express yourself on your terms."

MOTO VE66 amplifies conversations and helps reduce background noise with enhanced CrystalTalk technology. The VE66 also further enhances the audio quality with the addition of a second microphone, which helps eliminate more ambient background noise from the call.

On pressing a dedicated camera key, the VE66 will auto focus, activate an LED flash, if necessary, stabilize the image and reduce red eye. Automatic color saturation delivers whiter whites and crisper blacks.

The Wi-fi-enabled VE66 also features an MP3 player with USB 2.0 and integrated FM radio.

MOTO VE66 is expected to be available this quarter though no price has been attached to the phone as yet.

PRADA II Launched With BT Wrist Watch

About a month or so ago, LG and PRADA had announced another collaboration to bring out the next generation PRADA. The handset has now been officially launched and is set to hit stores in Europe by late November this year.

The latest edition of the PRADA Phone by LG (Model: LG-KF900) preserves the same original minimalist, totally touch screen exterior. A defining modification though involves a QWERTY keypad that slides out to give a more professional look.

The handset’s user interface has also received an improvement with LG’s latest active flash UI technology and haptic feedback on touch input. Dynamic upgrades to the software are well complimented by hardware extensions that include 3G capability with HSDPA up to 7.2 Mbps and an advanced 5 megapixel camera featuring slow motion video recording and DivX playback. Other features include Wi-fi, a full HTML browser and video calling capabilities.

Some of the contents included with the handset feature the PRADA Fall/Winter 2008 Lookbook, new PRADA animation films dedicated to the PRADA Phone by LG, and wallpapers illustrating principal themes from PRADA’s annual design collections dating back to 2001.

This time around, LG and PRADA have reinvented the mobile trend with another offering, the ‘PRADA Link’ (Model: LG-LBA-T950). Expected to release with the new handset, this sleek digital timepiece is a Bluetooth device that can remotely monitor phone calls as well as read full SMS text messages without having to extract the phone from a bag or pocket.

The new PRADA Phone by LG and the PRADA Link will be available at a starting price of Rs. 37, 113 (600 Euros) and Rs. 18,495 (299 Euros), respectively.

N96 Kicks Butt With Bruce Lee Edition

The Nokia N96 is apparently faring quite well in Hong Kong, in fact it seems to be doing so well that the company has launched an exclusive Bruce Lee edition of the all-in-one handset.

There are no dramatic changes in the handset’s design but the rear panel does come with an image and signature of the martial arts superstar. The handset will also come with preloaded content in the form of rare images of the legend (I would have settled for the full length movie of Game of Death) and some extremely cool accessories like an Enterbay Action figure of the actor in his famous yellow jumpsuit (GIMME!!!).

I’ll be honest with you. Being a fan from way back, even though I wasn’t all to thrilled with the handset after the review, I’d still get me one of these if it were launched here.

The handset is priced at approximately Rs. 64,000 (8,788 Chinese Yuan). The features remain unchanged – 16GB of internal memory with a microSD card slot for extension, 5MP camera with flash, Wi-Fi and GPS

Motorola Reveals New 5MP Cam Phone With Widgets

Motorola, Inc. has announced the arrival of MOTO VE66 with enhanced CrystalTalk audio technology. The sleek, slider device also boasts the first widgets integration on a Motorola mobile device, which means users would be able to receive easier, more seamless access to what matters most – whether you crave sports scores, stock tickers or RSS feeds from your favorite blogs.

“The MOTO VE66 delivers on consumer’s demand for more personalized listening and imaging experiences on a mobile phone,” said Tracey Koziol, corporate vice president, Mobile Devices, Motorola. “With a diverse multi-media experience, the VE66 truly enables you to make a statement and express yourself on your terms.”

MOTO VE66 amplifies your conversations and helps reduce background noise with enhanced CrystalTalk technology. From more superior voice quality to personalized noise adaptation, CrystalTalk makes a noticeable difference in the clarity and intelligibility of conversations while in a noisy environment. VE66 further enhances the audio quality with the addition of a second microphone, which helps eliminate more ambient background noise from the call.

The VE66 contains a number of features that you might expect to find on a dedicated digital camera. Its 5MP auto focus camera comes with an LED flash and automatic color saturation will try to deliver better whites and crisper blacks.

The handset also comes with a FastScroll one-touch navigation wheel for maneuvering through menus, an MP3 player with USB 2.0 access to data and downloads on your PC and Wi-Fi connectivity. There’s also an integrated FM radio with RDS and Stereo Bluetooth support.

MOTO VE66 is expected to be available Q4 2008 and there’s no pricing revealed yet.

Virgin Mobile Launches Low-priced 1.3MP Cam Phone

Virgin Mobile has unveiled its vKewl mobile phone with Video Recording capability. The handset is, according to the company the only handset in its price range with a 1.3 mega pixel camera that comes with video recording capability, lifetime incoming validity and a prepaid connection. Other features also include an MP3 player and an FM Radio

M. A. Madhusudan, Chief Executive Officer, Virgin Mobile India said, "The mobile phone is a lifestyle device for youth and has become an extension of their personality and entertainment requirements. Keeping this in mind, we have now made facilities such as video recording and a 1.3 mega pixel camera more affordable for youth so that they can capture and share impromptu moments spent with their friends and family without hurting their pockets".

The handset comes equipped with a 1.8-inch TFT LCD sporting a 176 x 220 pixel resolution display with 262k colors. It comes with preloaded games, a microSD card slot for memory expansion, WAP and can also be used as a modem.

The vKewl handset is priced at Rs. 3, 499.

Luxury Edition MING With Cartier Biz Card Holder Announced

The latest MOTO MING from Motorola, the A1600 packed with GPS capabilities, was launched in India last month. For some inane reason though, apparently not taking into considering the current state of the world’s economy, the company has recently unveiled a new version of the A1600, a Luxury Edition in Gold that, according to reports, comes with a Cartier business card holder.

The handset, that I’d like to call the Ming with Bling is available in Taiwan for an outrageous price of Rs. 42,995 ($867). I’m wondering if mobile manufacturers really get the word 'recession' with handsets like the INNOV8 and HTC Touch PRO being launched in the country.

Since we have the MING A1600 sitting pretty in our labs, stay tuned to Tech2.com for the review that should be out real soon.

Spice Mobiles Launches D-88 Gold

Spice Mobiles has announced the launch of the Spice D-88 Gold handset.

The dual-SIM facility enables dual SIM usage and simultaneous calls and messages on both the CDMA and GSM SIMs. This also allows calls to be put on hold and swapped simultaneously between the GSM and CDMAs connection without re-starting the phone.

The Spice D-88 Gold comprises of FM recording and  playback together with an expandable memory support up to 2 GB and 1.3 MP camera with multi–shot photo mode.

This gold-finished handset also features stereo-Bluetooth, JAVA support and Remote Control Application that lets users run through their business presentations via Bluetooth. This phone can also be used as a modem and has the Opera Mini web browser.

The sales pack comes with a 512MB memory card free and preloaded songs of the movie Dostana.

The Spice D-88 Gold is available at an MRP of Rs 8,999.

HTC Touch Pro, Viva, Launched in India

HTC and Idea have launched the HTC Touch Pro and the Touch Viva in Mumbai today.

The HTC Touch Pro has a 3D touch interface called the TouchFLO 3D, that provides an intuitive way to manouver through tasks like messaging, calendar appointments or making calls with just one touch.

Committed to improving web browsing, HTC has provided a new customized mobile web browser that enables easy viewing and effortless navigation of websites in the way they are designed to be viewed on a PC.

As part of this browsing experience users can zoom and pan websites with one-hand and automatically view optimized content that has been specially created to fit the display. Turning the device sideways automatically rotates the web page view from a portrait to landscape view.

In addition to web browsing, the Touch Pro includes an HTC-developed, YouTube application for watching a variety of user generated video content as well as including Google Maps for mobile.

The Touch Pro introduces a new 5-row QWERTY keyboard layout that makes typing-intensive tasks like composing email or working on Microsoft Office documents quick and easy. It also features an 2.8-ich display and built-in TV-out functionality.

The Touch Pro is priced at Rs. 34,900.

HCL Introduces Leaptop Series 39 in India

HCL Infosystems has launched the HCL "Leaptop Series 39", designed for Indian conditions, where the ambient temperatures are higher and the surface temperature of laptops tend to become uncomfortably hot. The HCL Leaptop Series 39 is designed to achieve a lower temperature differential of below 6 degrees on its palm rest surfaces.

Developed under its "Design for India" program, the Leaptops meet the Energy star 4.0 compliance standard.

HCL has also showcased its range of Leaptops, the Z35 series, the series 28 and 24, its latest "MTV Edition", the "HCL MiLeap series" and a range of HCL accessories including the "Dictamail" and the "FM Companion".

George Paul, Executive Vice President, HCL Infosystems said, "Over the past three decades, with our understanding and expertise of the Indian market, HCL has always been at the forefront of bringing in technological innovation in the country.  We are committed to bring, cutting edge technology products designed for Indian conditions and have brought in a range of new categories that have transformed the computing industry in India. The launch of HCL Leaptop Series 39 is yet another step towards the ‘Design for India' products strategy."

The HCL Leaptop 39 series comes with a 14.1-inch wide screen and has a battery backup of more than 4 hours. Compliant to the energy Star 4.0 Category A certification, the HCL Leaptop Series 39 consumes less than 1.7W of energy in sleep mode and below 1W in stand-by mode and is optimized to reduce its power consumption.

Further these products are tested for special conditions and undergo rigorous tests such as the HCL five feet drop test and the multiple environment stress tests, which test these laptops under extensive heat, humidity and voltage stress conditions.

The HCL Leaptop Series 39 is based on Intel's Centrino and Centrino2 Processor technology and comes in both Microsoft and Linux versions.

Starting at a price range of Rs. 39,900 for the Centrino Model and Rs. 42,990 for the Centrino2 range, the HCL Leaptop Series 39 will be available nationwide at all HCL DigiLife stores, premium Large Format Retail and other HCL retail outlets.

Asus Announces P565 With 800MZ Processor

Asus has introduced the P565, a business PDA phone that boasts a 800 MHz processor - the fastest in the world so far. Featuring Asus' latest touch-driven user interface - Glide - this leather-accented P565 is apparently capable of delivering a higher quality of graphics and system performance as compared to some of the other handsets in its class.





The P565, running on a Windows Mobile 6.1 professional OS, comes equipped with a 2.8-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 480 x 640 pixels (VGA). This should enhance Asus' Glide system of navigation and enable users to switch between tasks rapidly with their fingertips. The P565 also comes with a suite of business-oriented features and software, including push mail, business card recognition and Microsoft Office Mobile. Other applications such as Anytime Launcher and Multi-Home enables users to view their calendars, the times of local and visiting cities, weather reports, online news and much more - all with an intuitive tap, slide or flick of their fingers.

The handset’s battery lid is lined with black synthetic leather that will give it a hint of class and with its contrasting modern, high-gloss face the idea is to lend the phone tactility with a touch of sophistication. The handset also supports Wi-fi, Stereo Bluetooth, microSD cards for external memory, SIRF III GPS and it comes with a 3MP auto-focus camera as well with video recording capabilities.

Though the handset has been officially announced there is no information on its availability in the market or its pricing, so stay tuned.

Possible Screenshots of WinMob 6.5 Emerge

According to reports, Microsoft has confirmed that WinMob 6.1 is going to be passé as WinMob 6.5 is soon to be making the scene before the much awaited version 7.

According to the images posted, these could very well be just concepts of the UI as they have not been authenticated or confirmed as official yet. It would seem that the new Windows Mobile OS could change the outlook of WinMob handsets. The OS as a whole was due for a revamping and I personally will welcome it.

Office 2007 Support For S60 Users

For Symbian S60 users who use their handsets as a mobile office as well as a media/communication device, Mobile Systems has developed an upgraded version of OfficeSuite that brings Microsoft Office 2007 file support to the table. 

Users will be able to open and edit DOCX and XLSX files on their S60 enabled handset and the files can be saved to their original format for transfer to the PC or email. It will have Unicode support, True Type fonts, spelling capabilities in 6 languages (with word auto-complete and underlining of misspelled words) and the advanced formatting will allow for insertion and editing of embedded tables, images and hyperlinks. It also supports password protected files.

For Excel documents the upgrade comes with an ‘Easy Sum’ function and users will be able to edit XLS and XML files, and CSV files. Other features include over 100 common and scientific functions, charts and hiding and freezing of columns and rows.

With PowerPoint files, users can view files in various modes that include slide view, slide show, notes and outline view.

According to the official site, OfficeSuite has two separate work modes - View mode, where users can open and read document without any limitations in functionality or time with no limited trials and  Edit mode where documents can be modified on the device and saved in their original format. The save is available for a limited 30 days trial though. Registered users of other versions of OfficeSuite can upgrade for Rs. 1,459 ($29.99).

For Quick office users v5.0 is out and also has support for Office 2007 documents. 

Asus Launches New Eee PC in India

Asus has extended its line up of Eee PC models in India with the launch of the Asus Eee PC 904HA.

Designed for those on the move the new Eee PC 904HA features a 160 GB SATA HDD, and runs on Intel's Atom processor and Windows XP operating system.  

Stanley Wu - Product Manager, Notebooks and Eee PC, Asus (India) said, "The Eee PC 904HA is the latest addition to our Eee Family range of products. This new model aims to provide users with the perfect combination of ample storage space (160 GB) along with longer battery life (up to 7 hours) for one day computing on the go. Based on the feedback that we’ve received from users, we’re confident that the Eee PC 904HA which cut a niche for itself amongst the current plethora of netbooks available in the Indian market."

The Eee PC 904HA features an 8.9" screen size and supports a resolution of 1024 x 600 allowing users to view a single A4 page without the need to scroll left or right for easier reading and editing of documents. 

The Super Hybrid Engine incorporated in the Eee PC 904HA offers a choice of performance and power consumption modes for easy adjustments according to various needs. This helps the device to have a longer battery lifespan of up to 7 hours. The netbook is also Wi-Fi-enabled. 

This Eee PC 904HA will be available at an approximate price of Rs. 22,990 (excluding taxes) and comes with a one year warranty.

Sony Announces 12MP CMOS Image Sensor Lens

If you think the buck stopped at 8 megapixel camera phone sensors you'd be dead wrong. Sony has recently announced that they have developed three new Exmor CMOS sensors - 5.15, 8.11 and 12.25 megapixels. Yes, that’s right 12.25 megapixel. Of course they haven’t been incorporated into any handsets just yet so we’ll have to wait a bit on that front.

According to reports, the IMX060PQ, would be the world’s first effective 12.25 megapixel CMOS type lens. The second one announced is the U060F (1/2.5 type lens module at 12.25Mpix).

They’ve even included an image taken with the IMX060PQ lens.

SE to Launch Xperia in The US on November 28

Sony Ericsson’s latest and possibly greatest handset, their Windows Mobile 6.1 enabled Xperia X1 is due for launch in the US on November 28th 2008 - that’s in a couple of weeks. Of course it’s initially launching in the US so it’ll be a little while before it gets here.

"The Xperia X1 continues the Sony Ericsson tradition of delivering the highest quality experiences and the most advanced technology available today," said Karen Morris, vice president of marketing, Sony Ericsson North America. "The most exciting scenarios enabled by the Xperia X1 will be created by consumers - enabling them to customize and personalize their device and content to fit their lifestyle and personality."




The Xperia X1's unique panel user interface is at the heart of the device's ability to create and adapt consumers' personal choices. With up to 9 panels, it's easy to find and enjoy the information and entertainment content they want. Sony Ericsson is busy working with third-party developers to create a wealth of new applications and new panels that will soon be available for download.

"Windows Mobile gives people the ability to easily navigate between their business and personal lives," said Todd Peters, vice president of marketing, Mobile Communications Business, Microsoft. "The panel user interface found only in the Xperia X1 is bringing unique experiences to consumers who want more from their converged devices."




As Sony Ericsson's most advanced phone to date, the Xperia X1 brings together a large, 3-inch wide VGA display touchscreen and a full QWERTY keyboard all wrapped into a sleek silver metal-finished arc slider handset. The Xperia X1 supports 3G networks, enabling audio and video streaming, high-speed internet surfing, multimedia messaging and email on the go. In addition to delivering 3G mobile broadband speeds, the Xperia X1 supports Wi-Fi to meet the needs of consumers' always connected lifestyles. In the tradition of Sony Ericsson, the Xperia X1 also offers a 3.2 megapixel camera, video streaming, video playback and video recording, and the ability to enjoy all their digital music.

"The Xperia X1 complements Sony Electronics' family of Windows-based devices and leverages the company's heritage of providing beautifully designed, highly functional, portable electronics," said John Kodera, vice president of product marketing, Sony Electronics. "The Xperia X1 delivers the highest quality entertainment, communication and personalization options for consumers."




The Xperia X1 will be available unlocked through Sony Electronics and its authorized retailers. Pre-orders of the Xperia X1 will be available through the Sony Style Web site at www.sonystyle.com beginning today. This premium device will be sold unlocked for an MSRP of Rs. 39, 119 ($799.99), giving consumers the freedom to choose their own mobile operator and data plan.

SE's Xperia X1 Launched in India

The Xperia is the new premium sub-brand in Sony Ericsson's portfolio.




The X1 stands out with its arc-slider design, fully functional nine customisable panels, a 3-inch clear wide VGA display, a full QWERTY keyboard, 4-way key and optical joystick navigation and a 3.2 megapixel auto focus camera within a quality metal-finish body.

Running on Windows Mobile the Xperia X1 has the highest data transfer rate (HSDPA/HSUPA) and WiFi support.

"The Xperia X1 is the first product under Sony Ericsson's new premium sub-brand Xperia. Designed to meet consumers' needs for a converged entertainment and mobile web communication experience, the Xperia X1 is an exceptionally stylish handset, enhanced by the striking arc-slider design, encased in real stainless steel, to provide quality and durability. It is supported by a powerful panel multimedia ecosystem. said Sudhin Mathur, General Manager, Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications.




He further added, "The XperiaX1 can be personalised through its nine panel user interface to suit the user's moods and lifestyle. Users can access content quickly and directly through the touch screen, easily switching between applications by touching one of the unique customizable panels. The arc design gives a distinct and unique feel. With Windows Mobile, the highest data transfer rate (HSDPA/HSUPA) and Wi-Fi support, you can enjoy your favourite entertainment and work efficiently on the move. Xperia is our promise to think foremost of user experience and to deliver the premium experience – anytime, anywhere, anything, with anyone."

The Xperia will be available at an MRP of Rs. 44,500.