AT&T - T-Mobile Deal Blocked By DOJ http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
We were surprised this morning by the reports on Bloomberg and the WSJ saying that the United States Department Of Justice (DOJ) is lopposing the AT&T’s proposed $39 billion acquisition of T-Mobile on antitrust grounds.
The news is scant but Bloomberg grabbed the following from the complaint filed in federal court stating;
“AT&T’s elimination of T-Mobile as an independent, low- priced rival would remove a significant competitive force from the market.”
Later FCC chairman Julius Genachowski stated;
“By filing suit today, the Department of Justice has concluded that AT&T’s acquisition of T-Mobile would substantially lessen competition in violation of the antitrust laws. Competition is an essential component of the FCC’s statutory public interest analysis, and although our process is not complete, the record before this agency also raises serious concerns about the impact of the proposed transaction on competition. Vibrant competition in wireless services is vital to innovation, investment, economic growth and job creation, and to drive our global leadership in mobile. Competition fosters consumer benefits, including more choices, better service and lower prices.”
We were not happy about the acquisition but took it for granted that the deal will go through. In fact one of our colleagues was planing to defect from AT&T and go to T-Mobile but changed his mind after the news and is enjoying unlimited data voice service from Sprint. The AT&TT-Mobile deal was backed by Facebook and Microsoft, and 10 venture capital firms, Others include Yahoo, Oracle and the Research in Motion and was also opposed by many.
Of course AT&T is unhappy about the news and plans to take action. Should the deal fall through, AT&T will have to pay Deutsche Telekom, the parent company of T-Mobile upwards of 6 Billion.
AT&T's Wayne Watts,senior executive VP and general counsel released the following statement regarding the news stating that they plan to fight the decision in court;
We are surprised and disappointed by today’s action, particularly since we have met repeatedly with the Department of Justice and there was no indication from the DOJ that this action was being contemplated. We plan to ask for an expedited hearing so the enormous benefits of this merger can be fully reviewed. The DOJ has the burden of proving alleged anti-competitive affects and we intend to vigorously contest this matter in court.
At the end of the day, we believe facts will guide any final decision and the facts are clear. This merger will:
* Help solve our nation’s spectrum exhaust situation and improve wireless service for millions.
* Allow AT&T to expand 4G mobile broadband to another 55 million Americans, or 97% of the population.
* Result in billions of additional investment and tens of thousands of jobs, at a time when our nation needs them most.
We remain confident that this merger is in the best interest of consumers and our country, and the facts will prevail in court.
The Best Free SIP Account Providers in 2011 http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Keeping up with the tradition of providing the best free SIP account provider list, we have updated the list of Free SIP account providers. Please disregard all other lists.
IPTEL, the the original SER SIP server (Now famous forks, OpenSIPS and Kamailio) and associated services provider has continuously provided free SIP accounts for millions of users and remains our number one favorite. our next continuous Free SIP Provider is SIP2SIP which is a project by AG Projects and PBXs or i-p-tel GmbH, has been providing both free and paid services since we started.
AntiSIP, one of our favorite SIP Account for free providers has also been doing so uninterrupted while many big time providers has gone with the wind. GetonSIP is a new addition to our list and is a service of OnSIP, In addition to free SIP, they also provides free SIP clients for PCs and Android devices.
We have accounts on all the above service providers and have test the service with multiple equipment and softphones.
1. IPTEL.org, IPtel gave me the first taste of SIP a long time ago, at a time when people were asking what VoIP was. Register for an Account here.
2. SIP2SIP A project by AG Projects, could be accessed here.
3. ANTISIP provides free accounts and could be obtained by following this link.
4. GetOnSIP's free SIP account service could be accessed here.
If we find any further services we will list them here. If you are a Free SIP Service or Free SIP account provider, please contact us or leave a comment. We will add you to the list after testing. Thank you for reading the Best Free SIP Account provider list.
Motorola Mobility has released a very powerful smartphone targeting the workforce as the phone is optimized for business users but the fun of having an advanced Android phone (Android 2.3, Gingerbread) will certainly keep you entertained and connected well beyond the office hours.
“The Motorola PRO+ is built for people who want to take the pressure off and consolidate their work and personal lives with an efficient smartphone that acts like your personal assistant, Today, with our demanding 24/7 lifestyles your smartphone should make your complex life easier and give you an edge at work and at play.” said Alain Mutricy, senior vice president, portfolio and device product management, Motorola Mobility.
The phone is equipped with 1GHz processor, 4GB internal storage (expandable to 32GB), qwerty keyboard and a 3.1" VGA display covered with Gorilla glass and of courase powered by Android 2.3. The phone is capable of creating, editing documents on the fly with pre loaded Quickoffice. Calendar and email apps will keep you on schedule and in touch. When you really need to use a laptop or another computer, the 3G hotspot capability will provide connectivity, virtually from anywhere. Motorola PRO+ is also preloaded with the latest *Google mobile services including Google Maps™ 5.0, Google Talk™ and more than 250,000 apps from Android Market™
For more information, see the press release after the jump.
Press Release;
LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. – Aug. 30, 2011 –Life is full of demands, and we all could use a little extra help. With the sleek and sophisticated Motorola PRO+, brought to you by Motorola Mobility Inc., you can have your own personal assistant that fits right in your pocket. Motorola PRO+ gives you the power to edit important documents on the go, multitask when every second counts, and encrypt sensitive work information so your IT manager can sleep at night. This supreme blend of touch screen, full QWERTY keyboard and Android™ 2.3 (Gingerbread) makes this smartphone ready for anything. The Motorola PRO+ will be available in Asia and Europe starting in October.
Motorola PRO+ has a super quick 1GHz processor and physical QWERTY keyboard for more efficient typing and texting when you need to update a client on the fly, for browsing for really important information, or multitasking as necessity demands. The device is also packed with productivity features to make your life easier and to help you impress your boss or your friends, including the pre-loaded Quickoffice Connect for accessing, creating and editing documents on-the-go. We know that in a fast paced world, going in and out of apps wastes precious time, so now key apps such as your calendar and email are scrollable direct from your home screen.
Motorola PRO+ merges all of your personal and business information for you in a convenient system designed to make your life easier. Take the pressure off knowing Motorola PRO+ syncs services from multiple sources, so all your contacts are viewable the way you want them, calendar options are available to arrange, edit, and respond to meeting invites, there are direct dial conference options, and intuitive email solutions that can anticipate who you may be sending an email to before you do. Its 3G Mobile HotSpot capabilities enables you to connect multiple devices, such as a laptop or tablet, for quick access to the Web, corporate email and calendar syncing. Plus, it features scratch resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass so tossing your phone in your bag or pocket doesn’t have to be a disaster.
“The Motorola PRO+ is built for people who want to take the pressure off and consolidate their work and personal lives with an efficient smartphone that acts like your personal assistant,” said Alain Mutricy, senior vice president, portfolio and device product management, Motorola Mobility. “Today, with our demanding 24/7 lifestyles your smartphone should make your complex life easier and give you an edge at work and at play.”
Motorola PRO+ knows how to have fun too – it is ready for full customization to bring you the games and applications most important to you. With Music, Motorola’s unique music player you have a dashboard for music discovery. You have easy access to all your favorite artists and song lyrics. Plus, you receive live, personalized recommendations for songs and videos as well as news and event updates from the world of music. With Gallery, you can aggregate all your photos from social networking and photo sharing sites like Facebook and Picasa for easy viewing. Plus, with Adobe® Flash® Player 10.3, you’ll be able to access the online content you love. Motorola PRO+ is also preloaded with the latest *Google mobile services including Google Maps™ 5.0, Google Talk™ and more than 250,000 apps from Android Market™.
Motorola PRO+ is a smartphone that you and your IT department can agree upon. Nothing says business ready better than the leading security features; whether it’s remote wipe of your device and SD card, password expiration and history, or full encryption, your IT manager will breathe a sigh of relief. Motorola PRO+ comes loaded with 25 Exchange ActiveSync security policies – including PIN lock, auto-discovery of Exchange Servers, Extended Device Management API’s and 3LM integration. Your sensitive information – your career – is guarded in this virtual vault with Motorola PRO+. It’s fully loaded with support for Exchange and Gmail for business, including corporate directory options. With these leading features your IT manager just might give you a smile.
Smart Accessories
A suite of smart accessories ensures users get the most from the Motorola Pro+. Available accessories include a Bluetooth® headset, Bluetooth car kit, portable power, and car charger.
3G Mobile HotSpot capabilities – Allows customers to connect up to five other Wi-Fi®-enabled devices and laptops
Messaging/Web/Apps
MMS, SMS, Email, IM (Dwnld Java, Embedded)
Camera
5MP auto focus with LED flash
Audio
FM Radio Receive, AAC, AAC+,
AAC+ Enhanced, AMR NB, MIDI, MP3, RA, WAV, WMA
Video
Capture/Playback/Streaming, H.264, MPEG4
Storage & Memory
4G internal storage, expandable up to 32GB
512 RAM
Location Services
aGPS (assisted)
Pre-loaded Applications
Access to Google Maps™ with Navigation, Google Talk™ and Web browsing
Sensors
eCompass, Accelerometer, Light and Proximity Sensor
About Motorola Mobility
Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE:MMI) fuses innovative technology with human insights to create experiences that simplify, connect and enrich people's lives. Our portfolio includes converged mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets; wireless accessories; end-to-end video and data delivery; and management solutions, including set-tops and data-access devices. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.
Media Contacts (for media and analysts only):
Christa Smith
+1 858-404-2990
christasmith@motorola.com
Motorola Mobility, Inc.
*Certain features, services and applications are network dependent and may not be available in all areas; additional terms, conditions and/or charges may apply. Contact your service provider for details. All features, functionality and other product specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation
1All talk and standby times are quoted in Digital Mode, and are approximate. Battery performance depends on network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature, features selected, and voice, data and other application usage patterns.
Samsung Galaxy S, Galaxy S II and Ace Phones Banned Euro Wide, http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
The Dutch Court handed down a preliminary injunction on Samsung Galaxy S, Galaxy S II and Ace Phones after patent infringement claims by Apple. The injunction was based on one Apple patent, EP 2059868 - which outlines an interface for viewing and navigating photographs on a touchscreen phone. Which is an application shipped with Android OS, might be easily fixed by Android OS update. The Apple patent is also not valid in many European countries due to Apple's actions or lack of there of.
The judge also found that Samsung did not infringe on patent 2098948. The infringement of 2059868 does not affect the Galaxy Tab 10.1.
The time the injunction comes to play, might be enough for Samsung to alter the software to be free of infringement and continue to ship the devices.
The injunction is only on current devices and does not cover future devices that do not infringe the particular patent. The interim injunction prohibits sale of devices by three of the company's Dutch subsidiaries to the UK, France, Germany, Finland, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Sweden and Switzerland. The order does not bind Samsung's Korean parent company and if the logistics allow, Samsung can use Another European port to import phones.
The silver lining is that Dutch court rejected some of Apple's patent claims, like slide to unlock, as trivial and invalid. The court also rejected all other claims by Apple except the above mentioned patent, which is a software patent, despite the fact it is presented as a device patent.
Samsung was upbeat despite the injunction;
Today's ruling is an affirmation that the GALAXY range of products is innovative and distinctive. With regard to the single infringement cited in the ruling, we will take all possible measures including legal action to ensure that there is no disruption in the availability of our GALAXY smartphones to Dutch consumers. This ruling is not expected to affect sales in other European markets. Samsung has a proud history of innovation in the mobile industry. We will continue our plans to introduce new products and technologies that meet and exceed consumer expectations. And we will defend our intellectual property rights through the ongoing legal proceedings around the world. Samsung Mobile's Kim Titus said in a statement.
Grandstream GXP1100 And GXP1105 HD IP Phones http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
GrandStream just announced two ultra low cost IP phones geared towards variety of SMB, Lobby and Lodging Industry Applications. The phones, GXP1100 and GXP1105 are next generation small business IP phone that features up to two calls with a single SIP account, 4 programmable keys, Ethernet network port. GXP1105 has integrated PoE.
These phones deliver superior HD audio quality, leading edge telephony features, Automated provisioning using TR-069 or AES encrypted XML configuration file, SRTP and TLS for advanced security protection, 802.1x for media access control, for privacy and broad interoperability with most 3rd party SIP devices and leading SIP/NGN/MMS platforms. They are perfect for a small business, lobby, and hotel applications, basic IP phones with attractive cost.
Press Release;
Brookline, MA (August 24, 2011) – Grandstream Networks, the leading manufacturer of IP voice/video telephony and video surveillance solutions, today announced the introduction of its GXP1100/1105 series of HD IP phones. Fully compatible with a broad range of third-party SIP devices and leading SIP/NGN/IMS platforms as well as IPPBX systems, the new GXP1100 and GXP1105 provide small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and the hospitality (hotel/motel) industry with the latest in affordable entry-level HD SIP phones with crystal clear HD audio, rich telephony features and solid performance in a sleek industrial design.
The new GXP1100/1105 target those customers who want an entry-level, flexible, and high performance phone with HD audio and robust telephony functionalities but don’t need to invest in more sophisticated multi-line phone models with LCD displays. The GXP1100/1105 supports a number of popular telephony features of Grandstream’s more advanced GXP21xx/14xx series HD phones, such as security protection using TLS/SRTP/HTTPS, 802.1x, automated provisioning using AES encrypted XML configuration file and TR069, comprehensive voice codecs including the wideband G.722, etc.
More specifically, the two new models of GXP phones support these features:
GXP1100: entry level business HD IP telephone supporting single SIP account, up to 2 calls, 4 programmable keys, HD Handset with wideband audio, single 10/100Mbps network port, wall-mountable design with a desktop stand, 7 dedicated function keys for Hold, Flash/Call-Waiting, Transfer, Message, Mute, Volume, Dial/Redial. The phone is energy green efficient with an average power consumption of less than 1W. Its Web configuration interface also supports multi-languages including English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
GXP1105: Includes all of the same features and functionalities of the GXP1100 but it additionally offers integrated Power-over-Ethernet (PoE).
“In 2011 Grandstream placed focus on, and successfully gained significant momentum in, the sub-$99 IP phone category by introducing a wide assortment of HD IP phones that meet the varying size and application needs of SMBs and enterprise customers,” said David Li, CEO of Grandstream Networks. “The release of the new GXP 1100/1105 phones demonstrates our continued commitment to serving this fastest growing market segment with a variety of innovative, high quality and affordable product offering.”
For more information on the GXP1100/1105, click here.
Pricing and Availability
The GXP1100/1105 will be commercially available through Grandstream’s worldwide distribution channels at a list price of US$49 and US$55 respectively, by the first half of September, 2011.
About Grandstream Networks
Founded in 2002, Grandstream Networks is the leading manufacturer of IP voice/video telephony and video surveillance solutions. Grandstream serves the small-to-medium business and consumer markets with innovative products that lower communication costs, increase security protection, and enhance productivity. Our open standard SIP-based products offer broad interoperability in the industry, unrivaled features, flexibility, and price-performance competitiveness. Visit www.grandstream.com for more information.
Samsung Galaxy S II Coming To AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
After all the Apple trouble unloaded on Samsung in EU, Samsung seem to make it a big bang in state side with the newly minted, iPhone 4, iPhone 5 rival, Samsung Galaxy S II, san the Steve Jobs hype.
The phone it self is a marvel if people understood the technology as well as they do the hype coming from Apple quarters.
Samsung will introduce its Galaxy S II smartphone next week, well ahead of the iPhone five so cutting in to at least some of it's sales. Samsung is also covering all the major carriers in the United States, AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile. Verizon wireless has confirmed that they are not getting at the moment. Perhaps due to what it signed up with Apple for iPhone.
The Galaxy S II sports a lot of new and newer technology one would expect to see on a phone. For instance;
The 4.3" SUPER AMOLED Plus display goes a step beyond the already remarkable SUPER AMOLED to provide enhanced readability, a slimmer design, and better battery consumption for the best viewing value of any smartphone.
Dual Core Application Processor Clocking at lightening speeds the unrivaled performance of the Dual Core Application Processor provides unsurpassed functionality and density for faster browsing, quicker multi-tasking, a smoother UI, snappier streaming and highly efficient gaming. With encoding/decoding ability that supports video play and recording, makes it no.1 among dual cores.
8.49mm Slim Design Taking slim to the next dimension. The Samsung GALAXY S II rides the leading edge with an ultra-slim 8.49mm form factor, a luxurious design and an easy grip. The ultra-slim smartphone also boasts 3D TouchWiz UX adds to the evolutionary experience with a futuristic user interface.
Gorilla Glass covering the front of the phone is remarkable because I already have a Gorilla galss clad device, EEE Pad Transformer, and I love it.
You can find more information on the Samsung Galaxy S II at it's own dedicated site.
Nokia 101 and Nokia 100 phones http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Nokia launched the Nokia 101 and Nokia 100 phones, Nokia's most affordable phones to date, hopefully helping continue to keep it its position as the company that launched most handsets. But what is needed most is to do the same with it's smartphone lines, like Nokia N9. When it comes to smartphones, Nokia is not even in the list of top five smartphones list. As far as Mobile OS shipments go, Android leads Nokia's Symbian and Apple's iOS is closing on at the third place.
Fujitsu IS12T
Nokia 101, the latest dual SIM affordable phone from Nokia comes with FM radio and MP3 music player to keep the user entertained when not calling ot texting.
The advantage of having dual SIMs is that user can easily select which SIM card to use to make a call or send a text message, and you can manage costs and maintain network coverage without the need for several phones. Nokia 101 stores the settings of up to five SIM cards on the phone, and you can personalize all of them! So what better phone to have with you when you roam the world.
The Nokia 101 will be available in the third quarter of 2011 for about 25 euros (USD 35) and comes in Phantom Black and Coral Red.
The Nokia 100 will be available in the fourth quarter of 2011 for about 20 euros (USD 30) and comes in a range of vibrant colors including Legion Blue, Festival Pink, Ocean Blue, Phantom Black and Coral Red.
Nokia press release after the jump;
Espoo, Finland and Nairobi, Kenya - Nokia today announced the launch of the Nokia 101 and Nokia 100 phones, its most affordable phones to date, continuing its commitment to connecting the next billion consumers with mobile devices that offer modern, attractive designs, a range of practical and fun features, and services that extend the value of the phone with access to information and entertainment.
The Nokia 101 is Nokia's fifth dual SIM device in the last three months and is the most affordable to date. The dual SIM functionality enables users to connect to two different networks to receive calls and messages.
The Nokia SIM manager allows users to select which SIM card to use to make a call or send a text message helping them manage costs and maintain network coverage without needing several phones. In addition, the SIM manager allows users to store the settings of up to five SIM cards on the phone, and to personalize them by assigning names and logos for each SIM setting.
In addition to an FM radio, the Nokia 101 features an integrated MP3 player and a 103 phon loudspeaker, and provides support for up to 16 GB microSD memory cards, allowing users to carry their entire music collection with them.
The Nokia 100 is perfect for people looking for durability and simplicity as well as affordability when making calls and sending text messages. The Nokia 100 is Nokia's most affordable color display phone, and people can enjoy its new attractive grid-based menu system with fun and easy-to-read icons. Furthermore, the Nokia 100 features an FM radio, enabling users to tune into their favorite music stations, whether on-the-go or at home.
Both the Nokia 101 and Nokia 100 offer Nokia Life Tools (selected markets) and Nokia Money (in India), providing instant access to locally-relevant information on healthcare, education, agriculture and entertainment.
"We recognize that for many of the next billion people, a phone purchase is an investment. People are looking for a phone that offers great features but also one that is dependable," said Mary McDowell, Executive Vice President, Mobile Phones, Nokia. "When paired with powerful and locally relevant services such as Nokia Life Tools, the Nokia 101 and Nokia 100 offer a unique experience that is simply unmatched in their markets at these price points."
Pricing and Availability The Nokia 101 will be available in the third quarter of 2011 for about 25 euros (USD 35) and comes in Phantom Black and Coral Red.
The Nokia 100 will be available in the fourth quarter of 2011 for about 20 euros (USD 30) and comes in a range of vibrant colors including Legion Blue, Festival Pink, Ocean Blue, Phantom Black and Coral Red.
About Nokia Nokia is committed to connecting people to what matters to them by combining advanced mobile technology with personalized services. More than 1.3 billion people connect to one another with a Nokia, from our most affordable voice-optimized mobile phones to advanced Internet-connected smartphones sold in virtually every market in the world. Through Ovi (www.ovi.com), people also enjoy access to maps and navigation on mobile, a rapidly expanding applications store, a growing catalog of digital music, free email and more. Nokia's NAVTEQ is a leader in comprehensive digital mapping and navigation services, and Nokia Siemens Networks is one of the leading providers of telecommunications infrastructure hardware, software and professional services globally.
Tim Cook's First Email http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Even though he has big shoes to fill, the thirteen year old Apple veteran, the new CEO, Tim Cook is not sitting around and has already sent out an email to the Apple team confirming and recognizing the role of now departed Apple CEO Steve Jobs, as well as his aspirations regarding Apple. Old folks tell me that Tim Cook is million times better than that John Sculley, Apple board voted a few decades ago.
Good luck Tim, we expect to see Apple to be even better fruit under you.
Team:
I am looking forward to the amazing opportunity of serving as CEO of the most innovative company in the world. Joining Apple was the best decision I've ever made and it's been the privilege of a lifetime to work for Apple and Steve for over 13 years. I share Steve's optimism for Apple's bright future.
Steve has been an incredible leader and mentor to me, as well as to the entire executive team and our amazing employees. We are really looking forward to Steve's ongoing guidance and inspiration as our Chairman.
I want you to be confident that Apple is not going to change. I cherish and celebrate Apple's unique principles and values. Steve built a company and culture that is unlike any other in the world and we are going to stay true to that-it is in our DNA. We are going to continue to make the best products in the world that delight our customers and make our employees incredibly proud of what they do.
I love Apple and I am looking forward to diving into my new role. All of the incredible support from the Board, the executive team and many of you has been inspiring. I am confident our best years lie ahead of us and that together we will continue to make Apple the magical place that it is.
Mango Windows Phone 7.5 Handsets http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Microsoft has revealed today during a session at TechED NZ that Mango Windows Phone 7 Handsets will sport front facing cameras as well as VoIP clients such as Mobile Lync and of course, Skype. These facts were further recognized by Microsoft's Windows Phone NZ via a tweet.
Mango, brings major changes and updates to Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 platform, and these include multitasking, IE9 support, deep social networking, integrated chat to name a few. Mango is expected to be available to retail devices soon and Mango hardware is appearing slowly around the world with Fujitsu IS12T being one of the first to do so.
Jailbreaking an iPhone or another iOS device used to be a hassle and and a field where many people tread with fear of bricking their iDevices. Jailbreaking has come a long way and now it is perfectly legal to jailbreak your phone, be it iPhone or any other smartphone (The Library of Congress approved a DMCA exemption in 2010 for jailbreaking cell phones).
"Along with the jailbreak, I am releasing a patch for the main vulnerability which anyone especially security conscious can install to render themselves immune; due to the nature of iOS, this patch can only be installed on a jailbroken device. Until Apple releases an update, jailbreaking will ironically be the best way to remain secure."
JailbreakMe is doing a great job of freeing iPhones, iPods and iPads. JailbreakMe automatically includes Cydia, a package management interface that serves as an alternative to the iTunes Appstore.
Recently released JailbreakMe 3.0 is capable of freeing most of the iOS devices. Freeing means, that you are able to install apps from other than from iTunes, like Cydia, the way your iPhone should be. JailbreakMe 3.0 has been able to free closer to 2 million iPhones, iPods and iPads from Steve Jobs clutches, er I meant Tim Cook.
It is much easier than the way we did our initial jailbreaks using more common paths, such as Blackra1n and redsn0w.
The big boys of jailbreaking were responsible for the JailbreakMe, and brought to you by comex, with the help of Grant Paul (chpwn), Jay Freeman (saurik), MuscleNerd, and many others.
To quote JailbreakMe and Comex;
JailbreakMe is the easiest way to free your device. Experience iOS as it could be, fully customizable, themeable, and with every tweak you could possibly imagine.
Safe and completely reversible (just restore in iTunes), jailbreaking gives you control over the device you own. It only takes a minute or two, and as always, it's completely free.
Please make an iTunes backup before jailbreaking.
So visit JailbreakMe, after making an iTunes backup, on your iPad, iPad2, iPhone or iPod to see how to free your iDevice.
Skype Launches An Appstore (App Directory) http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Perhaps influenced by the soon to be parent company, Microsoft, Skype is getting friendly with developers again. A few years ago, they wanted to have everything for themselves and canned the Skype Developer Extra program. Skype App Directory, or the Skype version of the Appstore is live now supporting regular and business customers. The developers seem to be happy about having a place to publicize their apps the the vast Skype community.
There are, as usual, free and paid apps in various categories and I found a few apps to write home about. We will certain to cover some of the more appealing Skype Apps, like VodBurner Video call recorder, which is free.
Just like any other appstore, Skype App Directory provides a landing page for apps and there you will find more information about the app. These include screen shots, features comments and ratings by other users. If you select to get / buy the app, one is sent to appropriate place, like in the VodBurner case above, to their home page.
Like an appstore should be, Skype App Directory allows you to search by Platform (OS), price, language and keywords.
We may have been more of Android fan boys but we know a good man when we see, hear and meet one. Steve Jobs was one such. No matter what the reasons are, this is not good. There is nothing we know enough about to bash him up yet. At least it is a breather that Steve will remain as the Chairman.
I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.
I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee.
As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.
I believe Apple’s brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it. And I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role.
I have made some of the best friends of my life at Apple, and I thank you all for the many years of being able to work alongside you.
Rumor has it that some of the 52 million strong Sprint customers will be able to get hold of an Apple iPhone that works on their network. WSJ reported that it has received news from reliable sources that the No. 3 carrier will get the iPhone and Apple will have another sales outlet for it's iPhone 5 line up.
While this is good news, it also indicates that the iPhone 5 will be delayed some what, later than the expected September release. It is a delay that will affect waiting users as well as big boys on the wall street as iPhone 5, will hit the market later than expected and too late to contribute to sales in Apple's fiscal fourth quarter, which ends in September. This also confirmes our earlier iPhone 5 rumor that it will arrive in October.
We too are considering ditching AT&T and taking a ride on another carrier with unlimited data and the likelihood of going with Sprint now much larger, as some of our colleagues are true iPhone iPad fans.
Verizon Wireless and AT&T, the two largest wireless carriers, measured by subscribers, will begin selling the phone in mid-October as well, according to two people familiar with the matter.
Sprint had more than 52 million subscribers at the end of the second quarter, compared with 106 million for Verizon and nearly 99 million for AT&T.
Redsn0w 0.9.8b6 Takes Care Of iOS 5 Beta 6 http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
iPhone Dev-Team has updated redsn0w to readsnow 0.9.8b6 to support Apple's newly released iOS5 Beta 6. Keep in mind if you are not a registered developer of Apple, this will be a exercise in vain and if you are a developer, remember this is a tethered jailbreak. Meaning every time your iDevice loses power or reboots, you need to jailbreak.
We’ve released redsn0w 0.9.8b6 to jailbreak iOS5 beta6 (point it directly at the beta6 IPSW). Two important notes about this version: (1) Please let your device boot normally to IOS5b6 and do a clean shutdown (slide to power off) before jailbreaking. (2) Boot logos have intentionally been disabled for now, so you’ll see a black screen on tethered boots (you can re-enable logos or verbose boot with command-line options if you really want them back).
Due increased sensitivity to abrupt filesystem shutdowns in IOS5b6, it’s very important that you do a clean shutdown before running redsn0w.
Back To iOS 4.3.3 From iOS 4.3.5 http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
If you upgraded to iOS 4.3.5 and now thinking of getting back to iOS 4.3.3 for that full untethered jailbreak, Geohot says it is no big deal.
People who were trying to downgrade to iOS 4.3.3 were faced with errors, no matter if they saved their 4.3.3 SHSH blobs or not. But the solution Geohot is providing can do very well without the iOS 4.3.3 SHSH Blobs.
All you need is restore files, RedSn0w, iOS 4.3.3, and iTunes 10.4 and simple instructions.(Download links provided on Goehot article)
Comments mention the method did not work on iPads and Geohot also mentions that they did not try the method themselves but one of their readers provided the solution.
Nokia Symbian Belle Range http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Nokia today announced the launch of three feature-packed, mass market smartphones, bringing the latest smartphone functionality at attractive price points and including market-leading innovation with Symbian Belle. The Nokia 700, Nokia 701 and Nokia 600 extend the range of available designs, features and functionality in the Nokia Symbian smartphone range. Symbian Belle powers all three, with single-tap NFC technology sharing and pairing, the most personal user interface so far and a more powerful mobile Web browsing experience. As well as allowing content to be shared between devices, NFC capabilities allow any of the three new smartphones to pair with NFC-enabled mobile accessories such as speakers or Bluetooth headphones and headsets. To extend the range of available NFC-enabled accessories, Nokia is also announcing the launch of the Nokia Essence Bluetooth Stereo Headset, which can be paired with any NFC-enabled smartphone simply by tapping the two devices together.
While all three smartphones contain recognizable Nokia features, they each represent a very distinct set of priorities to allow users to choose what matters most in a smartphone. The most compact touch screen monoblock smartphone in the world (Nokia 700); a sleek and stylish smartphone with the world's brightest mobile display for indoor or outdoor use (Nokia 701), and Nokia's loudest entertainment smartphone (Nokia 600) all bring firsts to the Nokia product portfolio.
"After bringing exciting new features to the Symbian user experience only two months ago with Symbian Anna, we are now driving the platform even further with our most competitive Symbian user experience ever," said Ilari Nurmi, Vice President at Nokia. "Symbian Belle and the three new handsets we are launching today show our commitment to continue delivering Symbian products that allow people to choose what is most important to them in terms of user experience, design, functionality and price. These will not be last products or updates we will deliver on Symbian."
"With the announcement today Nokia has made it clear that Symbian will continue to play an important role in its product portfolio along side Windows Phone 7" said Nick McQuire IDC. "There is a sense of urgency in the way improvements and innovation are being delivered to the platform that demonstrates how committed Nokia is to make Symbian products a competitive smartphone choice."
Symbian Belle
Symbian Belle is the latest in a series of planned software updates to the Symbian platform, which started with Symbian Anna and will continue into 2012. Symbian Belle increases the number of home screens from three to six providing more room to display applications and services. Live widgets, now come in five different sizes, making the home screens come alive and giving users more flexibility to personalize the user experience. It also includes a pull down menu and taskbar to access notifications from any of the home screens and further enhancements to the Web browsing experience. All in all, Symbian Belle provides Nokia's most competitive, seamless and intuitive Symbian experience so far.
One of Symbian Belle's most exciting features is the single-tap NFC sharing and pairing capability. This allows contacts, videos and images to be shared with other NFC-enabled devices and smartphones, as well as pairing with NFC-enabled mobile accessories such as speakers and headsets. Gaming fans also benefit from the NFC capabilities of the new handsets with the ability to unlock additional levels in Angry Birds or find a hidden blade in Fruit Ninja just by touching two NFC-enabled devices together. On the Nokia 701 smartphone, which comes preloaded with Asphalt 5, two friends can even pair to compete on the same racetrack.
Nokia Essence Bluetooth Stereo Headset
The new Nokia Essence Bluetooth Stereo Headset uses special active noise cancellation technology to eliminate an unprecedented 99.8% of background noise - delivering pure, high-fidelity sound no matter how noisy the surroundings for people who don't want to sacrifice audio quality when going wireless. Using NFC technology, the Bluetooth headset can be paired with any NFC-enabled smartphone simply by tapping the two devices together.
Motorola FIRE Heats Up UK http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Motorola Mobility EMEA announced today that the Motorola Fire will be released to UK market in September. Motorola Fire, a 2.8-inch Android 2.3 touchscreen device with a physical QWERTY keyboard kept alive with a 1420mAh battery which Motorola says will deliver best-in-class battery life, giving users a phone that will run through an entire day on a single charge. The Moto-Fire will be available in black and white versions.
"“We are excited about extending our growing smartphone range in UK, and Motorola FIRE opens up new possibilities in the smartphone market. The device’s stylish design and its exciting and versatile social media applications will wow younger, tech-loving users in particular,” said Victoria McManus, UK marketing director, Motorola Mobility EMEA."
BASINGSTOKE, UK – Aug. 24, 2011 ─ Never compromise individuality with the new, budget-friendly Android™-powered smartphone from Motorola Mobility. The fashionable Motorola FIRE™ smartphone offers a full QWERTY keyboard with touchscreen display and ultimate personalisation options users expect from the fun and versatile Android platform. The Motorola FIRE is expected to be available in the UK towards the end of September.
Motorola FIRE has a sleek, modern design and a sophisticated finish. Its full QWERTY keyboard and 2.8-inch touchscreen display provide the perfect combination of tools for emailing, texting and browsing the Web. Users can stay in constant contact with friends and family through the world’s leading social media applications.
Motorola FIRE also comes with best-in-class battery life, allowing users to talk, browse the Web, text, play games and videos all day long1. Motorola FIRE also has the Moto Switch user interface, which allows users to switch to a friends-centric mode when they finish work and head home for the day.
“We are excited about extending our growing smartphone range in UK, and Motorola FIRE opens up new possibilities in the smartphone market. The device’s stylish design and its exciting and versatile social media applications will wow younger, tech-loving users in particular,” said Victoria McManus, UK marketing director, Motorola Mobility EMEA.
Key features and specifications:
Motorola FIRE runs on Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)
Access to thousands of apps in Android Market™
Dual-band HSDPA/Quad-band EDGE
2.8” QVGA touchscreen display
Full QWERTY keyboard
3MP camera
Moto Switch user interface allows users to shift easily into different modes
MicroSD card slot up to 32GB2
Access to Google Maps™ with Navigation, Google Talk™ and Web browsing
FM radio with radio data system (RDS) support
Wi-Fi conforming with 802.11b, 802.11g or 802.11n standards
1420mAh battery; eight hours of talk time or 30 days of standby in 3G mode1
About Motorola Mobility
Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE:MMI) fuses innovative technology with human insights to create experiences that simplify, connect and enrich people's lives. Our portfolio includes converged mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets; wireless accessories; end-to-end video and data delivery; and management solutions, including set-tops and data-access devices. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.
The Nikon COOLPIX S1200pj, A Camera With A Builtin Projector. seem to give something that iDevices has been missing, a powerful and brighter 20-lumen built-in projector. For added versatility, the COOLPIX S1200pj works with an iPhone®, iPad® or iPod touch® allowing users to project images and movies stored on these devices as well as online content. In addition, the camera maintains the ability to project content from a computer, such as presentations of multimedia content.
We all know many Android phones have NFC (Near Field Communication) capabilities built in. There are many uses for it like paying for your train ticket, pay at any counter, exchange your patient record to name a few. Think of Google Wallet
Now you can add note taking to the long list of NFC capabilities and NFC enabled apps, thanks to Touchnote, an Android app from the Montreal-based startup Wiseleap, the app took home the $50,000 grand prize at Evernote’s recent developer conference in San Francisco.
The app allows you to pull out Evernote notes just by waving or tapping your Android Device, Adevice, near a tag (NFC Sticker) provided by Wiseleap. You also need the mobile app.
Best use for this app would be (for Me) to have a tags on my notice board, bulletin board and/or desk called by various meetings I need to attend.
Wave the Android Tablet or the phone by one of these tags and I will know exactly what is needed to carry to the meeting, what is needed to be done at the meeting etc.
For Moms, or for that matter Dads, can have a tag on the fridge associated with shopping list, wave the phone by it, modify the shopping list by opening the fridge or by looking around the kitchen and can be on the way for a perfect shopping experience.
You can get both the app and tags from Wiseleap and make sure you have a phone with NFC enabled, like Nexus S, Samsung Galaxy S II. You will be the king of note taking.
Click on the image above to see a PDF of all the companies that received the award.
USDA, Broadband, Rural America http://snapvoip.blogspot.com
ISPs and Telecommunications companies strewn about in 16 states will receive more than $103 million in funding from Federal Government to expand High speed broadband Internet service to rural America that have not seen the high-speed service in their area or are underserved, USDA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today.
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 22, 2011 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that 18 recipients will receive more than $103 million in funding for 23 projects to provide broadband services to unserved and underserved rural communities. Residents and businesses that will benefit from this funding include those in an Oklahoma community damaged by a tornado earlier this year.
"Without broadband, rural communities, agricultural producers and business owners face a substantial challenge," Vilsack said. "These loans and grants will bring the benefits of broadband, including new educational, business and public health and safety opportunities, to residents living in some of the most remote parts of our Nation."
One of the successful applications is from Wichita Online, Inc., which will use a USDA Rural Development Community Connect program grant to provide broadband to the rural community of Tushka Town, Okla. The community was hit by a tornado on April 14, 2011, that killed two people and destroyed or damaged a number of buildings in the community. Rural Development's $480,000 grant to Wichita Online, Inc. will provide residents with broadband service and new opportunities for economic development.
The Community Connect program has been instrumental in providing broadband access to residents in remote areas and low-income communities. This year, the Karuk Tribe in Orleans, Calif., will receive a Community Connect grant to provide Internet services to 570 tribal members in a mountainous region of Northern California. Of the Community Connect grants being announced today, seven grants will provide broadband to communities that are plagued by persistent poverty.
In addition to the Community Connect grants, Secretary Vilsack announced $90 million in loan funding for five broadband infrastructure projects. For example, the Dubois Telephone Exchange, for example, has been selected for an $11.4 million loan to provide broadband to nearly all of the businesses and residents in Wyoming's Upper Wind River country and Little Snake River Valley. The loan is expected to create 100 jobs and save up to 150 others. Recreation and tourism are the leading industries in Dubois and the Upper Wind River Country, and broadband will enable those industries to thrive. The Vernon Telephone Cooperative, in Westby, Wis., has been selected for a $24 million loan to build a Fiber-To-The-Premises (FTTP) system in areas outside the town. Vernon also plans to make other system improvements in several area exchanges.
The infrastructure loans announced today are in addition to $192 million in loans Secretary Vilsack announced on July 27, 2011, through USDA Rural Development's Telecommunications Infrastructure Program.
The Community Connect program provides grants to rural, economically challenged communities. Funds can be used to construct, acquire or lease facilities to deploy broadband to community facilities such as schools and public safety buildings, as well as residents and businesses in the community. Each project requires a matching contribution and must serve an area where broadband is not available. The grantee must agree to provide local community centers in the selected towns with at least 10 computers which are accessible free for two years. USDA funding for all loans and grants is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.
In June, President Obama signed an Executive Order establishing the first White House Rural Council, chaired by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The White House Rural Council will work throughout government to create policies to promote economic prosperity and a high quality of life in rural communities.
Since taking office, President Obama's Administration has taken significant steps to improve the lives of rural Americans and has provided broad support for rural communities. The Obama Administration has set goals of modernizing infrastructure by providing broadband access to 10 million Americans, expanding educational opportunities for students in rural areas, and providing affordable health care. In the long term, these unparalleled rural investments will help ensure that America's rural communities are repopulating, self-sustaining and thriving economically.
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $155 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).
Microsoft’s patent case against Motorola Mobility began today in front of the International Trade Commission in Washington and according to media reports, the battle is set to get ugly,
Microsoft is accusing Motorola Mobility of infringing seven of Microsoft patents, is demanding an injunction from the ITC to stop some Motorola’s phones from being imported into USA. “Microsoft is one of the world’s most innovative companies and we have a responsibility to our employees, customers, partners and shareholders to safeguard our intellectual property, Motorola is infringing our patents and we are confident that the ITC will rule in our favor." said ” David Howard, deputy general counsel for litigation at Microsoft, in a statement to AllThingsD.
Motorola sees sagging Microsoft's attack as it's new business strategy and promises to do everything to to protect Motorola Mobility and how;
“We are vigorously defending ourselves against Microsoft’s patent attack business strategy, We have also brought legal actions of our own in the U.S. and in Europe to address Microsoft’s large scale of infringement of Motorola Mobility’s patents.” ” Motorola said in a statement.
For all it's goodness and Microsoft's need to make it's lawyers rich, it looks like will end up in a licensing deal, so Microsoft can continue to make those not so popular windows Phones.
"Twitter needs an appstore!" http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
"Twitter needs an appstore!" idea incubator OneFourty has been acquired by HubSpot, inbound marketing software company.
oneforty is a social business hub and creators of SocialBase which helped people with discovering right tools needed to effectively manage and measure ones social media efforts, be it an individual or a company.
HP TouchPad makes it to a top something http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
We got a HP TouchPad to play around with when it was released and thought "nothing" of it. It was something furthest from what we wanted from a tablet and Asus EEE Pad Transformer remains on the top tablet followed by iPad2 3G in our favorite tablet list.
But last breath fro the ill fated HP Touchpad is making waves, at least on Amazon with resellers from all over trying to offload the beast.
It has made the first and second place on the best seller list on Amazon!
GroupMe, To Be Acquired By Skype http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
A year old GroupMe, which was born at a Techcrunch Hackathon, has become the target of acquisition by Skype.
Pricing and the terms of acqisition was not revealed but GroupMe got $850,000 in round one funding and later $10.6 Million from Khosla Ventures, General Catalyst and previous investors. Skype CEO Tony Bates have indicated the GroupMe acquisition was in the talks even before the Microsft's interest on Skype. (The Skype Microsoft deal is still pending)
"“The group messaging space in general is one of the most important markets for Skype, GroupMe creates a very sticky instant feeling. Like Skype, it is an everyday interactive form of communication. Skype’s goal is to get to 1 billion users. Mobile is the place to do that.”" told TechCrunch
Youtube, VEVO Lead Facebook In Video viewership http://snapvoip.blogspot.com/
Google Sites, driven primarily by video viewing at YouTube.com, ranked as the top online video content property in July with 158.1 million unique viewers, while VEVO ranked second with 62.1 million.
Boasted by 51.5 membership, Facebook has become the the third most popular video site in USA, according to Comscore. The social network surpassed Yahoo, Viacom and Microsoft to become the third largest video site in terms of unique viewers.
July also made other records, like Total viewing sessions, which reached all-time high, nearly 6.9 billion. Google was in the forefront again with Google Sites crossing the 3 billion mark to account for more than 40 percent of all viewing sessions online.
The average viewer, you and me, enjoyed 18.5 hours of online video during July, with 5.9 hours on Google Sites and 3.4 hours at Hulu streaming down content to become the top two providers.
Now webwereld site finds that Apple submitted a wrong image of Samsung Galaxy S phone, comparing it to iPhone 3G. Both the phones were depicted as similar, but in actuality, Samsung Galaxy S is about 6% larger than the iPhone 3G, Which I just discarded (broken after 3 years).
Apple should have have gone straight if it has real grievances but this sneaky tactics, makes me stay away from all your iPhones.
