I9100BVKJ4 Orange Samsung Galaxy S2 Android 2.3.5 Firmware Update Online

The Samsung Galaxy S2 with carrier branded by Orange gets the official Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread firmware updates. The firmware build number is I9100BVKJ4 with a build date of October 24, 2011.
Many Orange SGS2 owners expected a signal boosts on the Android 2.3.5 firmware, so hope that this will improved signal performance.

Here's a list of  I9100BVKJ4 firmware for each specific region, for advance users who prepared a stock ROM and or having difficulty updating through Kies server. Just take note that the CSC file is different from each other regions.

Austria (Orange)
Product code: GT-I9100LKAONE

CSC: ONE - I9100ONEKJ5

France (Orange)
Product code: GT-I9100LKAFTM
CSC: FTM - I9100FTMKJ5

Poland (Orange)
Product code: GT-I9100LKAIDE
CSC: IDE - I9100IDEKJ4 

Romania (Orange)
Product code: GT-I9100LKAORO
CSC: ORO - I9100OROKJ4

Spain  (Orange)
Product code: GT-I9100LKAAMN
CSC: AMN - I9100AMNKJ4 

UK (Orange)
Product code: GT-I9100LKAORA
CSC: ORA - I9100ORAKJ4 


Code:

# autogenerated by buildinfo.sh                                                         
ro.build.id=GINGERBREAD                                                                 
ro.build.display.id=GINGERBREAD.BVKJ4                                                   
ro.build.version.incremental=BVKJ4                                                      
ro.build.version.sdk=10                                                                 
ro.build.version.codename=REL                                                           
ro.build.version.release=2.3.5                                                          
ro.build.date=Mon Oct 24 13:33:22 KST 2011                                              
ro.build.date.utc=1319430802                                                            
ro.build.type=user                                                                      
ro.build.user=root                                                                      
ro.build.host=DELL135                                                                   
ro.build.tags=release-keys                                                              
ro.product.model=GT-I9100                                                               
ro.product.brand=samsung                                                                
ro.product.name=GT-I9100                                                                
ro.product.device=GT-I9100                                                              
ro.product.board=GT-I9100                                                               
ro.product.cpu.abi=armeabi-v7a                                                          
# Samsung Specific Properties                                                           
ro.build.PDA=I9100BVKJ4                                                                 
ro.build.hidden_ver=I9100BVKJ4                                                          
ro.build.changelist=681297                                                              
ro.product.cpu.abi2=armeabi                                                             
ro.product.manufacturer=samsung                                                         
ro.product.locale.language=en                                                           
ro.product.locale.region=GB                                                             
ro.wifi.channels=                                                                       
ro.board.platform=s5pc210                                                               
# ro.build.product is obsolete; use ro.product.device                                   
ro.build.product=GT-I9100                                                               
# Do not try to parse ro.build.description or .fingerprint                              
ro.build.description=GT-I9100-user 2.3.5 GINGERBREAD BVKJ4 release-keys                 
ro.build.fingerprint=samsung/GT-I9100/GT-I9100:2.3.5/GINGERBREAD/BVKJ4:user/release-keys
# Samsung Specific Properties                                                           
ro.build.PDA=I9100BVKJ4                                                                 
ro.build.hidden_ver=I9100BVKJ4                                                          
ro.build.changelist=681297                                                              
ro.tether.denied=false                                                                  
ro.flash.resolution=1080                                                                
# end build properties

Advance users who prepares  installing or flashing the firmware using Odin downloader tool can grab the original stock ROMs at sammobile or at XDA. A Frankenstein  version with Dutch CSC file XEUKH2 has been also posted here at Android-hilfe. So, just enjoy upgrading folks!

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I9100BUKJ3 Vodafone Samsung Galaxy S2 Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread Official Firmware Updates Online

The Official Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread for Samsung Galaxy S2 provide by Vodafone has finally been rolled out recently. The regional push of the updates started from the first week of November until all Vodafone's users gets the 2.3.5 upgrade. The firmware build number is I9100BUKJ3  - GINGERBREAD.BUKJ3 with a build date of October 17, 2011. The build info below shows the UK version of the I9100BUKJ3 firmware.

Android Version - 2.3.5 Gingerbread
Model Number - GT-I9100
Baseband Version - I9100BUKI1
Build Number - GINGERBREAD.BUKJ3

Here's a list of CSC file since each region got a different CSC version that stands for country specific code for language or any default applications and here among the list of which and what country goes for such CSC file, so that each time anyone does looking for the stock ROM might not confuse.

Netherlands (Vodafone)
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
PHONE:  I9100BUKI1
CSC: VDF - I9100VDFKI2

Spain (Vodafone)
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
PHONE:  I9100BUKI1
CSC: ATL - I9100ATLKI2

UK (Vodafone)
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
PHONE:  I9100BUKI1 
CSC: VOD - I9100VODKI2

Czech (Vodafone)
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
PHONE:  I9100BUKI1
CSC: VDC_I9100VDCKI2

Germany (Vodafone)
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
PHONE:  I9100BUKI1   
CSC: VD2 - I9100VD2KI2

Greece (Vodafone )
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
CSC: VGR_ I9100VGRKI3

Romania (Vodafone )
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
PHONE:  I9100BUKI1  
CSC: VGR_ I9100VCNXKI2

Portugal (Vodafone )
PDA: I9100BUKJ3
PHONE:  I9100BUKI1  
CSC: VGR_I9100TCLKI3

Among other regions where Vodafone provides Galaxy S2 like Australia, New Zealand and Ireland has no report of  getting the update yet but hopefully will get the updates too.

Code:

# autogenerated by buildinfo.sh                                                         
ro.build.id=GINGERBREAD                                                                 
ro.build.display.id=GINGERBREAD.BUKJ3                                                   
ro.build.version.incremental=BUKJ3                                                      
ro.build.version.sdk=10                                                                 
ro.build.version.codename=REL                                                           
ro.build.version.release=2.3.5                                                          
ro.build.date=Mon Oct 17 14:37:12 KST 2011                                              
ro.build.date.utc=1318829832                                                            
ro.build.type=user                                                                      
ro.build.user=root                                                                      
ro.build.host=DELL155                                                                   
ro.build.tags=release-keys                                                              
ro.product.model=GT-I9100                                                               
ro.product.brand=samsung                                                                
ro.product.name=GT-I9100                                                                
ro.product.device=GT-I9100                                                              
ro.product.board=GT-I9100                                                               
ro.product.cpu.abi=armeabi-v7a                                                          
# Samsung Specific Properties                                                           
ro.build.PDA=I9100BUKJ3                                                                 
ro.build.hidden_ver=I9100BUKJ3                                                          
ro.build.changelist=647431                                                              
ro.product.cpu.abi2=armeabi                                                             
ro.product.manufacturer=samsung                                                         
ro.product.locale.language=en                                                           
ro.product.locale.region=GB                  

You can grab the official I9100BUKJ3 stock ROMs at sammobile.com, in-case you prepare upgrading your Galaxy S2 to android 2.3.5 using Odin tool or reverting your phone's firmware back to original stock.

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Asus Zenbook UX21

Asus Philippines has announced the official pricing for the 11.6-inch Asus Zenbook UX21 ultrabook. Only one configuration for the Asus UX21 will be offered in the Philippines. The UX21 is priced at Php53,995. 

Asus Zenbook UX21 specifications:

Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
 11.6-inch display (1366×768 pixel resolution)
Intel Core i5 2467M (3M cache. 1.60 GHz)
Intel HD Graphics 3000
4GB DDR3 RAM
128GB SSD
0.3MP camera
1 x USB 3.0 port, 1 x USB 2.0 port,
1 x micro-HDMI port, 1 x mini-VGA port
Bluetooth 4.0
WiFi 802.11 b/g/n
Bang and Olufsen ICEpower & ASUS SonicMaster Tech Audio
11.7 x 7.7 x 0.11-0.67-inch dimension
2.43 pounds
5 hours battery life

Specifications as compared to the 11-inch MacBook Air. Compared to the 11.6-inch MacBook Air, the Asus UX21 is a tad bit thinner and lighter, but essentially has the same specifications as a the 11.6-inch MacBook Air with 128GB of storage. Since the internals of both machines are made by Intel, it is really no surprise that they carry nearly the same hardware.

The main differences are that with the UX21  you get a mini-HDMI port instead of a Mini Display Port on the MacBook Air, USB 3.0 instead of Thunderbolt and Windows instead of Mac OSX. I would say the UX21 is the more relevant machine to most users as HDMI and USB 3.0 are more useful than a MDP and Thunderbolt. The operating system is a matter of personal preference.

The UX21 also does not have a back lit keyboard, but does give you nice aluminum keys which should hold up better to wear and tear than Apple's keyboards. You can get keyboard protector for your Mac, but you would be compromising ventilation. The UX21 also sports better speakers and audio.

Price. At Php53,995 is Php5,995 cheaper than the similarly equipped 11.6-inch MacBook Air. The UX21 also comes with a free sleeve, maybe another Php800 in value. The entry level 11.6-inch MacBook Air is actually price cheaper, but it comes with a smaller 64GD SSD drive for storage and 2GB of RAM.

All in all, the UX21 is a better bang for the buck option than the 11.6-inch MacBook Air offerings, with one caveat, the track pad issue below. Still the UX21 is not cheap, and I do not see it being a big seller in the Philippines.

Others. Every review of the Asus UX21, reports a glitch with the track pad which leaves it overly sensitive. Before buying one, make sure this glitch has been resolved. 

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Another Apple Siri versus Android Speaktoit showdown, this time from the UK

Virtual Assistants are all the rage these days with all the media attention around Apple and Siri. I myself, was not as excited since I have been using Vlingo as a Virtual Assistant, but really do not use it much. Vlingo works fine, I guess I am not the type who like to speak out commands. But, than again I am a bit of an old bloke used to doing things the old way.

Vlingo was my choice because I find to be useful in the only place a use it, while driving in a car. This is because Vlingo has a completely hands free mode. Vlingo works,  but does not have much in terms of "personality." 

After watching the nice people over at HardwareZone in Singapore test Apple's Siri versus Android Speaktoit I gave the app a try. Speaktoit does have a personality. How much personality? My wife commented, "Oh no, geeks are trying to create their own robot girl friends."

Not having an iPhone 4S to compare to Speaktoit, here instead is a YouTube video from someone who does:

Actually, based on my own use, Speaktoit does much more than this short comparison shows, but it does serve the purpose of a head-to-head.

Again, Speaktoit does seem like the better of the two apps. For places and navigation, Siri is still pretty useless outside the USA.

Here is a link to Speaktoit on the Android Market.

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Top 10 Best Affiliate Networks

For all the bloggers and other enthusiasts who want to earn some extra cash without doing any much efforts then affiliate network marketing programs are for you. This program requires a little bit of creativity and skills from your end and soon you will be earning a handsome amount of cash. 

Here are some of the Top 10 Best Affiliate Networks that you can work to improve your business  or organization and  normal people can also earn money easily through this online affiliate marketing:

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Smart Communications is now offering the Nokia N9 for pre-order

Smart Communications is now offering the Nokia N9 for pre-order. The Nokia N9 is a MeeGo powered smartphone with a 3.9-inch screen. Two versions are available. One with 16GB or internal storage and another with 64GB. Internal storage is not expandable via SD card.

Nokia N9 16GB - Free at Data Plan 2000

Nokia N9 64GB - Free at Data Plan 3000 or Php1,200 at All-in Plan 3500.

Bundled with the phone is a Nokia Wireless Music Receiver MD-310 which connects your phone to your stereo.

The pre-order period runs from November 4 to 21, 20011. Pick-up date is November 21, 2011.

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S5830XWKS9 Official Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread Firmware Update for Samsung Galaxy Ace Released

Seems like Samsung Galaxy Ace S5830 users almost got no complaints about new firmware updates, because it's keep on coming like day after day. Lately, another Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread officially released by Samsung Kies server in Poland and The Netherlands. These new version got the build number of S5830XWKS9 a CSC files (XEO - Poland S5830XEOKP2) and (XEN - Netherlands S5830XENKS1) with a build date of October 15, 2011.

According to users who already tried it says, it does not have much any difference from previous versions, just a few improvement in usability performance, it became more smoother. The Wifi connection become much faster, some new applications are added, just find out the rest by yourself.

 Images courtesy of zagoya  from HTCmania

There are five Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread Stock ROMs available for Samsung Galaxy Ace for now and will soon be added more since Asian, Arabic and other Regions doesn't have the 2.3.5 firmware update releases yet. Here's the list of the previous released including the two XWKS9.

S5830XWKS2 XEN - Netherlands
PDA: S5830XWKS2
MODEM: S5830XWKS2
CSC: S5830XENKS1

S5830XXKPO SER - Russia
PDA: S5830XXKPO
MODEM: S5830XXKPO
CSC: S5830SERKPO

S5830XWKS3 VIR - Virgin Mobile UK
PDA: S5830XWKS3
MODEM: S5830XWKS2
CSC: S5830VIRKP1

S5830XWKS9 XEO - Poland

PDA: S5830XWKS9
Phone: S5830XWKS2
CSC: S5830XEOKP2

GT-S5830_XEO_S5830XWKS9_S5830XWKS2_S5830XEOKP2

S5830XWKS9 XEN- Netherlands
PDA: S5830XWKS9
MODEM: S5830XWKS2
CSC: S5830XENKS1

GT-S5830_XEN_S5830XWKS9_S5830XENKS1_S5830XWKS2
Pass: sampro.pl  Posted at XDA by Przekret 

The stock ROM can be flash as "ONE Packaged" using Odin. see the guide here
OPS File
ODIN Multi Downloader v4.38

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Download PES 2012 Demo Game for PC

Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) 2012 was latest game title released by Konami Digital Entertainment Inc at Gamescom 2011. The Demo version of game is out now and available for free download from official site and this football game is playable on both PC and console platforms like PS2 PS3 Wii and X360. The Full version of game is available on all leading gaming market stores at 14th October 2011. They have improved the interactive gameplay and added many more additional features, it makes you feel that you are really playing soccer game in real world environment . They made few changes than the previous series in order to entertain soccer fans and users can able to chose their favorite teams and their playing styles . Here you can see improvements on this things physics, speed, graphics and animation etc. The goal keeper reactions and controlling the ball it's awesome. It’s worth of time to play this soccer game.

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Apple Siri versus Android Speaktoit Assistant

HardwareZone tests Apple's iPhone 4 and its Siri Virtual Assistant versus a HTC Desire HD and Speaktoit Assistant. The results are kind of surprising.

From the tests, it looks like HTC Desire HD and Speaktoit Assistant was the clear winner, with Asian accents and places at least.

You can read their entire Apple iPhone 4S review at this link.

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I9100XWKJ2 Android 2.3.5 Firmware Update for Samsung Galaxy S2 released

Here comes another Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread firmware update for Samsung Galaxy S II I9100. This has just been reportedly as an official Kies server firmware release in France, the version build number is I9100XWKJ2 in which got the default CSC file code XEF- France = I9100XEFKJ1 and a build date of October  21, 2011.

The SBL (Samsung Boot Loader) does not included in the file. So in flashing this in Odin, you may need to flash the old bootloader via PDA (or Bootloader) and then you can reset via USB Jig again.

I9100XWKJ2 Android 2.3.5 Firmware
PDA: I9100XWKJ2
Phone: I9100XXKI4
CSC: I9100OJPKJ1
Version: Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread
Build Date: October 21, 2011

Build info:

# autogenerated by buildinfo.sh                                                         
ro.build.id=GINGERBREAD                                                                 
ro.build.display.id=GINGERBREAD.XWKJ2                                                   
ro.build.version.incremental=XWKJ2                                                      
ro.build.version.sdk=10                                                                 
ro.build.version.codename=REL                                                           
ro.build.version.release=2.3.5                                                          
ro.build.date=Fri Oct 21 00:52:44 KST 2011                                              
ro.build.date.utc=1319125964                                                            
ro.build.type=user                                                                      
ro.build.user=root                                                                      
ro.build.host=DELL144                                                                   
ro.build.tags=release-keys                                                              
ro.product.model=GT-I9100                                                               
ro.product.brand=samsung                                                                
ro.product.name=GT-I9100                                                                
ro.product.device=GT-I9100                                                              
ro.product.board=GT-I9100                                                               
ro.product.cpu.abi=armeabi-v7a                                                          
# Samsung Specific Properties                                                           
ro.build.PDA=I9100XWKJ2                                                                 
ro.build.hidden_ver=I9100XWKJ2                                                          
ro.build.changelist=676699                                                              
ro.product.cpu.abi2=armeabi                                                             
ro.product.manufacturer=samsung                                                         
ro.product.locale.language=en                                                           
ro.product.locale.region=GB                                                             
ro.wifi.channels=                                                                       
ro.board.platform=s5pc210                                                               
# ro.build.product is obsolete; use ro.product.device                                   
ro.build.product=GT-I9100                                                               
# Do not try to parse ro.build.description or .fingerprint                              
ro.build.description=GT-I9100-user 2.3.5 GINGERBREAD XWKJ2 release-keys                 
ro.build.fingerprint=samsung/GT-I9100/GT-I9100:2.3.5/GINGERBREAD/XWKJ2:user/release-keys
# Samsung Specific Properties                                                           
ro.build.PDA=I9100XWKJ2                                                                 
ro.build.hidden_ver=I9100XWKJ2                                                          
ro.build.changelist=676699                                                              
ro.tether.denied=false                                                                  
ro.flash.resolution=1080                                                                
# end build properties

What's new on I9100XWKJ2?
Here's some added features compared from previous releases of Android 2.3.5 like:
I9100XXKI3
I9100XWKI8
I9100XXKI4
I9100XWKJ1

Gary Crutcher  posted the CWM flashable I9100XWKJ2 ROM with an expanded power menu included and here's how he comes with the I9100XWKJ2.

- added CRT effect
- added 14-button quickpanel - right/left scrollable
- added AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3.apk to help manage widgets
- added AppWidgetPicker-1.2.3.apk to help manage widgets
- added Titanium Backup v4.5.2.2 (free version)
- added QuickPanelSettings.apk to modify quick panels - allows you to set which quick panel buttons show, the order of the quick panel buttons. Holding a quick panel button (long press) takes you to the buttons menu.
- replaced Samsung bootanimation with Nexus Prime bootanimation
- does NOT include sbl (Samsung Boot Loader)
- no power menu title (except when using QuickPanel buttons)
- no power off confirm dialog (except when using QuickPanel buttons)
- reboot, recovery & download options added
- system/app & system/framework files deodexed & zipaligned
- removed leading zero on lockscreen clock if in 12-hour mode
- Siyah Kernel v2.1.1 - includes root and CWM 5.0.2.7 (includes option to backup to external SD card - under backup menu)
- updated busybox to v1.19.3
- updated Superuser to v3.0.6
- updated su to v3.0.3
- no apps have been removed - left it stock
- updated Market app to v3.3.11

You can  grab the CWM packaged and the detailed guide on how to install it,  just see his thread here at Android Modaco.
You can get the stock ROM and get some more details here at XDA-developer.

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Sony Vaio S VPCSB26FG is now selling at 10K less (Php44,999)

The Sony Vaio S is the companies mainstream business laptop. The VPCSB26FG model is the entry level Vaio S. Featuring a 13.3-inch (1366 x 768 pixel) resolution screen and weighing in at just 3.8 pounds, it is large enough to be used as a primary laptop or for hours of long use and light enough for frequent carry. The Sony Vaio S weighs 0.8 pounds less than it primary competitor, the 13-inch Apple MacBook Pro. This puts the Vaio S in between the weight of a MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, while providing an optical drive and discrete graphics.

The other specifications are:

• Windows 7 Home Premium with Service Pack 1 64-bit
• Intel® Core i5-2410M Processor 2.30 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.90 GH
• 4GB DDR1333 RAM
• 500 GB SATA Hard Drive
• DVD/RW
• AMD Radeon HD 6470M and Intel HD Graphics 3000 with 512MB dedicated memory
• 2 USB 2.0 and 1 USB 3.0 port
• HDMI out
• Card and memory stick readers
• Fingerprint scanner 
• Rated at up to six hours battery life

The price of the entry level Vaio S has been dropping drastically as of late. The previous model was priced Php59,999. Two months ago, the updated model was released with a faster processor and larger hard drive with the price being reduced to Php54,999. Now, the price is down to a amazing Php44,999.

At Php44,999 it is priced all 17K below the price of the entry level 13-inch MacBook Pro. The current selling price is so low it can now compete even with the Acer Aspire TimelineX 3820T. The  3820T is still 7K cheaper, but the Vaio S has the advantage of discrete AMD Radeon HD 6470M graphics, 2GB more RAM and an optical drive.

Sony Vaio S VPCSB26FG comes in four colors: Black, blue, silver and pink.

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AMD Fusion E-450 ultraportable round-up

AMD Fusion. A few months ago we were lamenting the fact that despite the AMD Fusion accelerated processing unit being an excellent platform to build a low cost ultraportable laptop on, there were few options available. Now, there are a plethora of options for lightweight ultraportable AMD Fusion options in the market. 

While there are the older E-350 units still avialable, and the slower C-50 and C-60's the one we recommend the AMD Fusion E-450. The E-450 has a dual core processor clocked running at 1.65GHz which is clocked just a bit higher than 1.60GHz of the older E-350. What makes a bigger difference in performance is that the E-450 supports DDR-1333 RAM, as opposed to the DDR-1066 supported by the older E-350 chip. However, the E-450 also comes with HD6320 graphics which has the ability to turbo boost its speeds by another 20% when needed.  All in all, the E-450 is a much faster platform than the older E-350.

Samsung NP305

Basically a AMD Fusion E-450 chip is fast enough to do the tasks you would require from an ultraportable, play 1080p video smoothly and do some light 3D gaming. Eight months ago we had a choice between an HP and a Sony. Now options from Asus, Dell, Fujitsu and Samsung are available on the local market.  

Price:

• Dell Inspiron M102z - Php21,900 with Ubuntu Linux O.S.
• HP Pavillion DM1 - Php22,900 with Windows 7 Starter
• Asus Eee PC 1215B - Php22,990 with Windows 7 Starter
• Samsung Series 3 - Php23,900 with Windows 7 Home Basic

• Fujitsu Lifebook PH512 - Php26,995 with Windows 7 Home Basic
• Sony Vaio YB - Php26,900 with Windows 7 Starter

Prices may vary from seller to seller. I included the bundled operating system, since in considering the price differences, you should also consider whether you intend to spend a little more cash upgrading the operating system. 

Asus Eee PC 1215B

Battery:

• Asus Eee PC 1215B - 5200 mAh
• Dell Inspiron M102z - 5000 mAh
• Fujitsu Lifebook PH512 - 4800 mAh

• HP Pavillion DM1 - 4400 mAh 
• Samsung 
  NP305
   - 4000 mAh
• Sony Vaio YB - 3500 mAh

All these units have the same internals, so battery size is good indication of battery life. Notably, the Asus 1215B has a 12.1-inch screen while the other units have smaller 11.6-inch screens. The larger screen would consume a little more juice. The Asus, Dell and Fujitsu are you best choices for endurance.

Weight:

• Samsung NP305 - 2.7 lbs.

• Sony Vaio YB - 
  3.2 lbs.
• Fujitsu Lifebook PH512 - 3.2 lbs.
• Asus Eee PC 1215B - 3.4 lbs.
• Dell Inspiron M102z - 3.4 lbs.
• HP Pavillion DM1 - 3.4 lbs. 

Only the Samsung Series 3 has a significant difference in weight. It is also the smallest of the bunch being more like the size of a 10-inch notebook.

Others:

• Asus Eee PC 1215B - It is the only one equipped with a USB 3.0 port.
• Dell Inspiron M102z - Comes with 4GB of RAM, the others only comes with 2GB. Also comes with SRS surround sound.
• Fujitsu Lifebook PH512 - Has a 640GB hard drive, most of the others have 500GB hard drives.
• HP DM1 - Comes with Beats Audio
• Sony Vaio YB - The Sony Vaio YB comes with 384MB of dedicated video memory. Only comes with a 320GB hard drive, most of the others have 500GB hard drives. 
• Samsung NP305 - Smallest of the bunch, meaning it also has the narrowest keyboard.

Which is the best? 

Each of the offerings has its merits. The Samsung NP305 is an easy choice for those looking for the most portable of the offerings. It is much lighter (0.5 to 0.7  pounds lighter) and smaller and slimmer it is the easiest to slip into a handbag and the kindest on the shoulder.

The Asus Eee PC 1215B  is easily the most capable. It has a larger 12.1-inch screen but is not significantly heavier than the other choices, except for the Samsung. It also has the much desired USB 3.0 port which allows for data transfer 10x faster than USB 2.0, for compatible devices. 

The other options all have their strengths. The Sony Vaio YB has the fastest graphics performance  while the HP Pavillon DM1 has the best sound.  The Dell Inspiron M102z has the most RAM while the Fujitsu Lifebook PH512 has the most storage. 

In the end, there are a nice set of AMD Fusion ultraportable in the market, each with its own merits. 

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Google Launching a Music Download Store

Nowadays, it’s a hot topic that Google is starting a free music download store. This facility will work intently with the social network of the Google plus. It is authentic news that Google will launch the music store soon. Some of the predictions and reviews shows that it will be within two weeks but according to experts and professionals who are familiar with the Google policies and music download store the release can take more than two weeks. Fans of Google Music download store can use this offer for many advance song sharing options.

It will be possible to share lots of new free mp3 songs and mp4 videos with the help of Google Music Download Store. The song sharing facility can be used both for social and commercial purposes. The people who will use this service can sale the songs uploaded there to the customers. So there will be another business point online but mainly for the music related industries.

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Want to see how Windows Phone 7.5 works - Nokia shows you how interactively

Nokia has a though task on its hands. It migrates to a one year old operating system whose very existence is not known to many, and even those who have heard of it really do not know what it is like. So while showing off its latest Windows Phone 7.5 devices, Nokia is also promoting Windows Phone 7.5.

You can try out the interactive Nokia Lumia Demo at this link. You need a Facebook Account to use the demo. It will ask for access to your account details, but it will use them for the demo display only. I do not want to spoil anything. Just click grant, and your in for a threat.

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S5570XWKS7 (Spain Firmware) Android 2.3.5 for Samsung Galaxy Mini S5570

Just recently, another Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread firmware for Samsung Galaxy Mini  S5570 released. S5570XWKS7 is the said build number and with a default 'CSC: FOP = SPAIN' Spanish firmware version. There has been no reports yet that this firmware was officially released in Spain, so we just assume that this is another Android 2.3.5 version leak  from the developer (not confirmed yet). The build date was October 15, 2011. As of the date on this post, there are now three Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread stock ROMs available for Galaxy Mini, the S5570XWKS2 that was also leaked a while ago and the S5570XWKS1 which was reportedly officially released in Russia. So, just expect more Android 2.3.5 official released coming on your regions, for this reports means that the developers are working

Build info:

# autogenerated by buildinfo.sh                                                         
ro.build.id=GINGERBREAD                                                                 
ro.build.display.id=GINGERBREAD.XWKS7                                                   
ro.build.version.incremental=XWKS7                                                      
ro.build.version.sdk=10                                                                 
ro.build.version.codename=REL                                                           
ro.build.version.release=2.3.5                                                          
ro.build.date=Sat Oct 15 17:15:04 KST 2011                                              
ro.build.date.utc=1318666504                                                            
ro.build.type=user                                                                      
ro.build.user=root                                                                      
ro.build.host=DELL133                                                                   
ro.build.tags=release-keys                                                              
ro.product.brand=samsung                                                                
ro.product.model=GT-S5570                                                               
ro.product.name=GT-S5570                                                                
ro.product.device=GT-S5570                                                              
ro.product.board=GT-S5570                                                               
# ro.build.product is obsolete; use ro.product.device                                   
ro.build.product=GT-S5570                                                               
ro.product.cpu.abi=armeabi                                                              
ro.product.manufacturer=samsung                                                         
ro.product.locale.language=en                                                           
ro.product.locale.region=GB                                                             
ro.wifi.channels=                                                                       
ro.board.platform=msm7k                                                                 
# Do not try to parse ro.build.description or .fingerprint                              
ro.build.description=GT-S5570-user 2.3.5 GINGERBREAD XWKS7 release-keys                 
ro.build.fingerprint=samsung/GT-S5570/GT-S5570:2.3.5/GINGERBREAD/XWKS7:user/release-keys
# Samsung Specific Properties                                                           
ro.build.PDA=S5570XWKS7                                                                 
ro.build.hidden_ver=S5570XWKS7                                                          
ro.build.changelist=650682                                                              
ro.build.buildtag=                                                                      
# end build properties

Anyway you can grab the S5570XWKS7 stock ROM  below via sampro link.
GT-S5570_FOP_S5570XWKS7_S5570OXXKS2_S5570XWKS2.rar
Pass: sampro.pl
This just comes in a single .tar.md5 packaged after you download and extract the rar file.

Here's the guide on how to manually flash or install it on Odin. 

Odin guide: how to install the S5570XWKS7 firmware for flashing.

- Make a back up first of all important data stored on the device
- Put the tass.ops file in OPS button.
- Tick the one packaged checkbox
- Put the S5570XWKS7_S5570OXXKS2_S5570XWKS2_HOME.tar.md5 in the One packaged button.
- Set the Galaxy mini in download mode (Vol Down + Center + Power button)
- Once the phone displays in download mode, connect it to PC then ensure Odin will recognize it.
-  If the connection is already secured, hit the "Start" button.
- Wait up to 5 minutes to finish flashing. The phone will then reboot if the flashing done.
- Do a factory reset

Here's the full guide on how to flash the Samsung Galaxy mini S5570 using Odin downloader tool.

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Google Halloween Doodle 2011

A fun time-lapse video of the Google doodle team & friends carving giant pumpkins in the Halloween spirit. Shot on location at Google's Headquarters in Mountain View, CA. Music by Slavic Soul Party! Composed by Matt Moran

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HTC EVO Design 4G Review

PhoneArena reviews the HTC EVO Design 4G. The EVO Design 4G is quite the looker with an aluminum unibody design and 4" qHD display. Known as the Hero S elsewhere, the EVO Design 4G has WiMAX data and a dark paint job to set it apart. Other key features include a 5 megapixel rear and 1.3MP forward-facing cameras, 1.2GHz Snapdragon processor and DLNA...
For more details, check out our web site:http://www.phonearena.com/reviews/HTC-EVO-Design-4G-Review_id2874

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MHL Consortium shows some of the latest MHL features

"There are now 2 HDTVs that are MHL compliant, the Toshiba WL800A and the Samsung UN46D7000 now also got a firmware update that ads MHL support. Possibly that all new HDTVs will include this functionality. It allows for charging MHL compliant phones and tablets and to remote control them with the TV remote through one simple cable and one Micro-USB connector. Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich might add new MHL features to the UI, otherwise the MHL Consortium is trying to convince app developers and smart phone makers to design the apps and the OS to take advantage of the 1920x1080 resolution of the HDTV when using the HDMI output, to provide higher resolution user interfaces, higher resolution games, the ARM Processors and GPU in those phones and tablets are now getting powerful enough to output full 1080p UIs, videos and graphics, it's time for the industry to take advantage of that! One pocketable phone can now combine the features of Android, Chrome OS and Google TV, it's now a phone, a desktop, a set-top-box and a home console all in one"

Charbax

BIG THANKS TO CHARBAX

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What is Google TV?

An overview of the new Google TV experience

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Apple iPhone 4S Philippine pricing

With Globe Telecom being the exclusive iPhone distributor in the Philippines, those wanting unlocked iPhone's have to turn to the grey market. Factory unlocked iPhone 4S phones are already available in the Philippines. You can find these sellers on TipidCP at this link. 

iPhone 4S 

• 16Gb - Php46,000  
• 32Gb - Php51,000  
• 64Gb - Php56,500  

iPhone 4

If you are looking for the older iPhone 4 is still now priced at Php29,000 for the 16GB model in black and Php29,500 for the same model in white. 

The iPhone 4 is also available from Globe Telecom, but a pre-paid unit will set you back Php37,499. Unlike in other countries, the iPhone 4's from Globe Telecom are not carrier subsidized and Globe actually makes a profit with each unit sold. Apple should really look into this, if they want to see their phones get into the hand of more Philippine users. Basically, compared to the US, Singapore and Hong Kong, getting an iPhone cost much more in the Philippines.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN.

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Halloween threat from Gameloft

Gameloft is offering three games at a discounted price of just US$0.99 (Php42.43) as a promotion this Halloween season. This promotion applies to sale over the Android Market.

Link to Uno at the Android Market

Link to Order & Chaos at the Android Market

Link to Backstab at the Android Market

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Battery-gate? Apple iPhone 4S / iOS5 battery drain issues

We first heard about battery life issues with the Apple iPhone 4S, and iOS5 upgraded iPhone 4's and 3GS's, from PhoneArena almost two weeks ago. Back than, I figured it was really just a result of iOS5 five being more Android like since it now sync's to the cloud, updates location data and has notifications. I figured people may also have just been using Siri too much. A week later Chris Breen of Macworld wrote about his efforts to diagnose the problem. 

But when we see things like The Inquirer writing that the Samsung Galaxy S II has longer batter life than the iPhone 4S, we really start to wonder. The Galaxy S II does after all have a much larger screen than the iPhone 4S and the biggest battery drain on an Android is the power consumed by the display.

Today, TechRadar reported that Apple is contacting iPhone 4S users about battery drain issues. I guess, this confirms that there is a problem with iOS5 or the battery in the iPhone 4S, which is not caused by excessive Siri use.

Having engineers look into it, rather than a quick public denial, only to back-track, later is a much better way for Apple to handle this kind of thing. So what while it does Appear that there is a problem with the iPhone 4S  battery or an issue with iOS5 which affects a fair number of users, I don't think we should label this one battery-gate. The denial factor is missing.

November 3, 2011 update. Laptop Magazine reports Apple has confirmed that a "small number" or users are experiencing battery life issues and will be issuing a fix in a few weeks. Laptop Magazine reminds readers that the dual core Apple iPhone 4S does consume more power than the older iPhone 4,

One area which may have caused confusion confusion was when Tim Cook announced during the iPhone 4S launch that the iPhone 4S had one hour more of 3G talk time without mentioning anything else on the battery life.

The new iPhone 4S, based on Apple's released specifications has 33% less standby time and one hour less web browsing time over WiFi. 

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Samsung overtakes Apple as the biggest smartphone seller in Q3 of 2011

The BBC citing data from Strategy Analytics reports that Samsung how now overtaken Apple as the biggest smartphone maker in the world. For the third quarter of 2011 Samsung accounted for 23.8% of of all smartphones shipped in the quarter. Apple came in second with 14.6% and Nokia came in third with 14.4%.

Market share Q3 2011

Samsung - 23.8%
Apple - 14.6%
Nokia - 14.4%

This time last year Nokia had a 26.5% share with Apple coming in with 14.1% and Samsung with 7.5%. 

Market share Q3 2010 

Nokia - 26.5%
Apple - 14.1%
Samsung - 7.5%

Source: CNET

One thing which should be noted is that Samsung and Nokia offer smartphones at all price points while Apple, and other top manufacturers like HTC and Motorola, only compete only up to the mid-level market.

Some things may change the equation in this quarter.

1. Apple has a lower cost offering. Traditionally Apple only kept two models in the market at one time. Now they will keep three models, which means they will be offering the iPhone 3GS which becomes the cheapest iPhone in history.

2. Nokia has launched their Windows Phone 7.5 device. A 14.4% market share shows that Nokia brand is still strong, and now its name, and Windows Phone 7.5, could help them regain market share. 

3. Android handsets are now getting cheaper than ever. Last year Symbian and Bada smartphones where cheaper than Android alternatives. Now Android smartphones can be found at prices matching even the cheapest smartphones. This would put more pressure on Nokia.

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Nokia's flexible user interface prototype demo

CNETTV

A prototype at Nokia World in London of device controlled by how it's flexed.

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LG Optimus Black @Php15,990

LG is offering its slim 4-inch Android phone, the LG Optimus Black, on a promotional price of Php15,990 which is a discount of Php2,000 from its current market price. The promotion runs until December 18, 2011.

The promo mechanics are a bit more complicated than I would have liked. To avail of the promotion you have to buy it online through LG's website and payment must be made through a credit card or paypal account. The phone will be delivered to your address. Would be better if they just offered the promotional price on over the counter sales. Anyway, you can get you the LG Optimus Black at the promotional price by following this link.   

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Windows Phone 7 arrives

Nokia has comes out with their first Windows Phone 7.5 handsets, the Lumia 800 and 710. From a hardware standpoint these devices are not revolutionary. The most significant thing these Nokia phones id that they will give the world a good look at Windows Phone 7.5. In a world obsessed by apps, Windows Phone 7 was largely ignored when it came out last year because it had a small app market compounded by the lack some key features. I also think one problem with Windows Phone 7 was it dared to do things in a different way.

Today mobile phone operating systems do look like they evolved from my first Windows based smartphone, which in turn was derived from the interface of a desktop computer. They are too app centric. Want to get something done, launch the appropriate app. 

Now at version 7.5, the missing features are present, the app market is 35,000 strong, and Nokia has committed to giving 25,000 Nokia Lumia 800 handsets to app developers to encourage app development. Windows Phone strength, its amazingly intuitive interface has been improved. Windows Phone does have apps, but its main focus is  integrating functions into hubs.

Hubs in Windows Phone 7.5 allow you to organize information in a single spot. Want to communicate with a friend, go to the People Hub  which allows you to connect contacts by making a phone call, sending a SMS or an instant message, posting on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Don't worry about what app you should use, just decide who you want to communicate with. Android moves in this direction with its latest Android 4.0.

If you decide to send a person a SMS, Windows Phone 7.5 will show you if the person you are about to SMS is online on Facebook or Windows messenger. You can seamlessly switch between texting, Windows Live Messenger or Facebook Chat from within a single message thread. Apple's iOS 5 messenger has similar functionality. 

Similar integration is done with other hubs, to cover work, play, pictures and music. Instead of hoping from app to app, just think about what you want to do, and you will find all relevant information and apps in one place.

With both Android and iOS adding features found in Windows Phone 7.5, it would seem that Android and iOS developers seem to think that integration is the path to take. And when it comes to integration Windows Phone 7.5 still leads the way.

The other notable thing about the Windows Phone is the Metro Interface. It was really designed with the small screen in mind. From the live tiles to the larger fonts, it is a lot easier to use on a small screen. Much less squinting.

With Nokia launching their own Windows Phone devices, the world will finally get a better look at Metro and Hubs, and I think they will like what they see. I think this places Nokia on the road to recovery, boosts the visibility of Windows Phone devices of other manufacturers, and puts Windows Phone back in the mobile OS map.  For the first time since its launch, I feel certain that Windows Phone 7.5 won't be going away.

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Samsung Galaxy Mini S5570XXKS1 Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread Officially Release in Russia

The latest official Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread firmware update has been release via Kies server for Samsung Galaxy Mini S5570 in Russia. The firmware build number is S5570XXKS1 with CSC file S5570SERKS1 which has the firmware code "SER" for Russia. A few days ago a leak stock ROM with build number of S5570XWKS2 which is also an Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread  was also released but some reports from advance users who already tried it that it drains the battery too fast. Although, there is only a few changes from 2.3.4 but, we hope that this might be a stable Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread for Galaxy Mini.

Here's the screenshot via samkiesupdates tweets about the said S5570XXKS1 firmware update on Kies.

You can grab the copy of the S5570XXKS1stock rom here, the passcode is 'sampro.pl'.
The file which came in a single packaged, S5570XXKS1_S5570XXKS1_S5570SERKS1_HOME.tar.md5  in which can flash or install via Odin on its PDA slot. Anyway any unbranded version of galaxy mini can use this firmware for it has also English and some European languages included into it. We will try to gather more info about  this firmware version and try to update this post if there is something interesting on this Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread update version for Samsung Galaxy Mini that might suite your interest.

Here's the full guide on how to flash the Samsung Galaxy mini S5570 using Odin downloader tool. 

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Does Apple now think it invented the Apple?

Apple and patent lawsuits is starting to border on the ridiculous. But this one takes that case. New.com.au reports when a small the owner of a small cafe in Germany, Apfelkind, was trying to register her trademark, she received a letter from Apple sent her a letter from California headquarters last month saying its logo would be damaged by any trademark rights she might win for her apple and that in particular, the choice of the color red, the leaf on the apple stem and the shape of the apple could confuse consumers.

Here are the two marks, you decide:

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Make Free Video Calls on Samsung Galaxy S and S2 using Skype

In this post, we will show you simple way to make free video calls on your Samsung Galaxy S and S2 Android Devices using Skype video calling feature which was recently added to some limited android phones only and we hope that they will enable this feature for all android compatible smartphones for next update of this application.

Skype is one the best chat client which support many features such as video calling, text messaging, making group calls, group chat for affordable prices. Skype releases its official app to all the Android users in which you can make video calling from your android device. In the previous update of android there are only few phones supports this video calling feature but in this new update it supports almost all the android devices.

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S5570XWKS2 Android 2.3.5 for Samsung Galaxy Mini S5570 now available

The Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread for Samsung Galaxy Mini S5570 is available online and released by sammobile. The firmware build number is S5570XWKS2 which has a firmware code for Europe. There are no reports that this version is an official firmware update that has been released over Europe regions, so this might be a developers leak (not confirmed yet).

Some advance users already tried the said S5570XWKS2 Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread on their Samsung Galaxy Mini and here's some feedbacks what they came up so far on this upgraded Android 2.3.5 version:
- Looks like the same as of 2.3.4
- Battery life improves but others says it's fast draining
- Much more faster in speed performance
- Scrolling is much smoother
- Wi-fi speed increase
- Others like camera and audio nothing change

It's too early to say that this firmware is stable, since we suspect that this is only a beta version. But if you are adventurous enough and want to try this upgrade version, you can grab the copy of the S5570XWKS2 Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread stock ROM via sammobile.com link S5570XWKS2.rar - password: samfirmware.com.

Here's the guide with Odin screenshot on how to install the S5570XWKS2 Android 2.3.5 Gingerbread on Samsung Galaxy Mini S5570. If you will download the file and after extracted it, you can view two files -  the APBOOT and PDA.You also need the TASS.OPS file and Odin here. And see other Galaxy mini stock ROMs list in-case if you want to revert back again from your previous firmware version.

Note: Just make sure that your Galaxy mini is absolute/fully charged, this is a little bit risky process since we are flashing a new bootloader here, once if the flashing fails it might brick your device, so proceed at your own risk.

Now in Odin you just in-place each files to its designated slots in Odin.
-  on the OPS button is the tass.ops
- the Boot button is the APBOOT_S5570XWKS2_CL584844_REV02_user_low_true.tar.md5
- the PDA button is the CODE_S5570XWKS2_CL584844_REV02_user_low_true.tar.md5

Once all desired file already loaded on Odin, set the Galaxy Mini in download mode ( Volume Down + OK + Power ) then connect the phone to PC. Once detected by Odin just hit the "START" button. then wait until the flashing process completes. Then do a factory reset.

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HTC Beats on Tour

HTC sensation XE and XL with beats audio

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Nokia Lumia 800 and Lumia 710

Nokia launched two Windows power smartphones today, the Nokia Lumia 800 and Lumia 710.

The Nokia Lumia 800 takes its place as Nokia new flagship, with a curved 3.7-inch 480 x 800 resolution ClearBlack AMOLED LCD, encased in a stylish black, cyan or magenta case. Inside is a 1.4GHz processor, 512MB or RAM, 16GB of internal storage and maybe its best feature, a 8MP camera with f/2.2 Carl Zeiss Tessar lens with a dual led flash and a dedicated camera button. On paper at least, this should be better than the camera on the Apple iPhone 4S and on any Android phone.

A bit perplexing is the absence of a front camera. That is one feature that distinguishes a Windows Phone 7 device from a Windows Phone 7.5 device.

As with other Windows Phone 7.5 Mango devices, it comes with 25GB of free SkyDrive. Over and above this Nokia added Nokia Drive, a free turn-by-turn voice navigation program. This is the first Windows Phone to come with free turn-by-turn voice navigation. Nokia Drive voice navigation works in the Philippines. Google Maps navigation, found in the Android phones and the iPhone, works here to, but without turn-by-turn voice support.

In addition, Nokia added a new service called Nokia Music with Mix Radio and an ESPN Sports Hub. 

It seems a bit like deja vu, a potentially great camera, free turn-by-turn navigation, but this time instead of a Symbian packing N8, we have a Windows power Lumia 800. Retail price is US$585, which should put it at around Php26,000 to Php28,000 locally. A bit more expensive than we were expecting, but I think this will sell really well here. 

The other phone announced is the was the Nokia Lumia 710 which sports a 3.7-inch 480 x 800 resolution ClearBlack LCD,a 1.4GHz processor, 512MB or RAM, 8GB of internal storage and a 5MP camera. We expect this phone to retail locally at about Php16,000 to Php18,000. 

Well, that's all. Right now Nokia's Windows Phone 7 line-up looks a bit thin. 

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