http://www.uberphones.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/samsung-safe.jpg

I don’t think I’ve ever seen any tech company go through so much negative media publicity other than Blackberry (RIM). Take this news for instance.

Blackberry is known to be the Enterprise-King (after its tarnished customer segment). From data storage to multimedia communication devices, Blackberry is literally “the” choice for most (if not all) companies on a global scale. Ever since the arrival of competitive smartphone platforms, Blackberry has been struggling in all segments of the wireless playground. Consumer market is completely out of bounds, the only thing Blackberry was standing on was its Enterprise market, which unfortunately is also under severe attack. Nowadays, lots of companies have been reporting to allow their employees to use ‘alternative smartphone handsets’ alongside RIM phones – ouch.

The source article pertains to Samsung’s goal of directly attacking RIM’s remaining ‘safety for enterprise’ throne. “SAFE“, aka “Samsung Approved for Enterprise” is a security brand/concept by Samsung, labeling its flagship handsets to be completely compatible and secure with Enterprise servers. Seeing the way Samsung handsets are being flooded in store-shelves (and flown out), I don’t think RIM will stand a chance against competitors in the upcoming year, to say the least. Apple has been replacing BB handsets in many companies as well.

Market adaptability takes a lot of time, effort and good products (Apple vs RIM), but sometimes its the other way around (Samsung vs Apple) and things can take a change in no time. The amount of time RIM has been taking to develop its new platform is just far too long in this current-gen world where everyone (Microsoft, Mozilla, Google, Apple, BlackBerry, etc) is trying to develop a new software eco-system with next-gen hardware on an almost monthly basis. On top of this, media has been attacking RIM negatively from left and right anyways due to pathetic devices – and this news is definitely not helping their media-image.

The point is, I have a feeling it might be a little too late for RIM to catch up back to the #1 spot. I wish them the best of luck to remain a company and at least keep our smartphone prices going south. You never know though, when Apple was going strong no one thought Android could come around and give it a hard time – maybe BB OS 10 could do the same? Time will tell.

Source: TechCrunch

[GadgetTalk]

http://www.blessthisstuff.com/imagens/stuff/meta-watch.jpg

It seems a new breed of tech companies are emerging, continuously gaining fresh and new investments (from donations and private investors).

Pebble Watch, as previously covered by R4T is a watch that connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, and displays everything important like your notifications and messages on the LCD display. Best thing about these smartwatches is the ability to add custom made applications which even the user can make based on their preferences., choosing an average of under $200. And now another company wants to enlist itself an iOS exclusive smartwatch manufacturer (Motorola also makes MOTOWatch for Androids).

What makes me ponder is the fact how all the big named watch companies (CK, Seiko, Casio, Swiss Army etc) never even thought of stepping into this sector. Nowadays, I believe a watch doesn’t serve the purpose of time only, but the brand and how expensive the watch is, which is very stupid. Why would you spend more than $200 on a gadget that only shows you time? Without getting offended in your minds, you know very well the above statement makes sense. A gold or expensive watch is not a sign of prestige, its a sign of ignoring how to spend your money wisely.

Realistically, I think the concept of smart watches is also a waste of money, but its an emerging trend which is why its being covered.

Source: Engadget

[GadgetTalk]

http://apc.io/media/apc/img/apc-outlines.png

A few weeks ago I posted a link on how Android manufacturers are coming up with DIY concepts, and how you can actually make your own custom tablet.

Well, whoever was dumb enough to ignore that notion, another manufacturer has joined the party. VIA technologies have introduced a fresh new line of Android enabled DIY kit. And guess how much it costs, $50 USD. One of the greatest things about this “motherboard” is the fact how it can fit in macro-ATX as well as mini-ATX PC cases.

It comes pre installed with Android 2.3 with the following specs:
VIA 800MHz processor
512MB RAM
2GB flash memory (microSD enabled)
Built-in (up to 720p) graphics
HDMI pro, VGA port
4 x USB Ports
audio out / in
Ethernet port

.. Again $50. I bet Apple would never even think of enabling such perks for the general crowd because
1. Most Apple followers are n00bs and carry none to low technical knowledge, so the idea of customization is out of the question.
2. Even if they did release something like this it would cost us a fortune.

The point is this gives the custom-PC world another chance to exist amongst the corps.

Source: Engadget

[GadgetTalk]

Source: http://www.tabletpcblog.com/wp-content /uploads/2012/05/67434b30rmincontrol.jpg

Before we focus on the source article’s main point, I want you to keep a few things in mind. The evolution of personal computing: it started off with combination of a physical keyboard, mouse, display (non-interactive), and a huge machine. If you look at the speed at which things are changing – you’ll be astonished, better yet: you should be surprised and jumping out of your seat with excitement. Everything is converting into virtual data, aka, invisible data and the size of the computing device (the processing brain) shrinking.

The world of invisible data is growing and will keep on doing so, here are a few examples: things like data transmission (wireless, satellite connections), touch sensitive hardware (keyboard+mouse = touch screen displays), social networking (connecting with friends, family online rather than physical or through telephone) etc. And it’s not like it took a century for all these changes to occur, it all happened immediately.

When it comes to vehicles, a lot of manufacturers are looking to convert front dashboards with a touch-sensitive slate, while using the front glass as a display screen. Well, the revolution sounds dandy n all but the main question here should be: when will the pattern of upgrading actually cool-off? Sort of like a breathing point for the industry itself. The “age” of physical keyboard and mouse was a “breathing point” or plateau for the industry for a few years – and when it comes to cars and dashboards, Garmin is trying to do the same but with a different perspective in mind.

GPS manufacturer Garmin has decided to focus its attention on solidifying (physical) multi-sensor experience rather than testing with virtual (invisible) touch sensitive screens and the likes. What they are now trying to do is install a console along with your gearbox/handbrake that can easily fiddle around with the settings for your GPS – this way you’ll be less occupied to physically input key strokes onto the screen, meaning more concentration on the road and a natural upgrade to multi-tasking your GPS locations. This console will be equipped with a proximity sensor, meaning it will know when you’re physically covering it, enabling a much more seamless and interactive experience. It also enables other nitbits like: HVAC control, smartphone app integration, car monitoring controls, pre-set buttons, etc.

I believe this is more of a natural and logical upgrade to driving a car with a GPS – build a console within the car which is dedicated to the GPS. Instead of having a separate device to manipulate as GPS, it’s better to treat GPS as a car’s best friend.

I’d also like to mention about Garmin’s accomplishments. Garmin is a company that has consistently kept itself up to date with the times: enabling firmware updates, traffic updates, real-time accident information (requires a fee ofcourse), and now an opportunity to combine their skillset with car manufacturers at this point should surely spring a new branch of royalty money (if it gets approved on a larger scale, Suzuki will implement this in their 2013 vehicles).

Source: Engadget

[GadgetTalk]

source: http://makezineblog.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/diy_tablet_1.jpg

Calling all DIY (do-it-yourself) enthusiasts, there’s now a way to actually develop your own customizable tablets. A company called Liquidware has recently debuted what it calls “Amber”, its a 7″ tablet slate that is cover less (add your own), comes fully equipped with Android 3 (Gingerbread).

Here are the detailed specs:

Software:
Android 2.3.4 Operating System
Five User Customizable Buttons
3.5mm Stereo Audio

Display:
7.0 inch projected capacitive multi-touch display
800×480 LCD screen 133 DPI

Processor & RAM:
1GHz ARM Cortex-A8 OMAP3730 (single core)
32-bit 512MB of RAM 8GB Class 10 micro SD (up to 16GB)
2 USB Host (Type A) 1 USB OTG Port (Mini AB)

Communication:
Wi-Fi 802.11b/g
USB to 10/100BASE-T Ethernet
USB to RS232 Serial

Power:
5,600mAh
19V DC Power Adapter

Size & Weight:
Height: 4.19 inches (106.6mm)
Length: 6.66 inches (169.3mm)
Depth: 0.66 inches (16.8mm)
Weight: 15.7oz (447grams)

This is absolutely amazing. The reason why is because if you look at the history of tech gadgets, only desktop computers were enabled for custom computer production, whereas phones/laptops were gadgets where the masses solely depended on manufacturers to release new products. This initiative will benefit those who survive mainly on custom-built PCs, and officers love experimenting with modifications on an external end.

Source: http://m.engadget.com/default/classic/article.do?artUrl=http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/18/liquidware-debuts-customizable-android-development-tablet/&icid=eng_latest_art

[GadgetTalk]

Source: http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/17mtlepvu102yjpg/original.jpg

The title says it all.

There’s a company called Electric Imp – specializing in semi conductors. They’ve come up with a MicroSD Card look-alike chip (which are WiFi enabled) – called Imp Cards (Imps). These Imps can be installed on ANY (and yes its been tested) machine, device, gadget that you own – even if initially it can’t connect to the Internet – rest assured after installing Imp, you’ll be able to control that device through a web-interface.

The greatest thing about this chip is that it works with ANYTHING. I don’t know how else to emphasize this great fact. Most devices with similar features will force you to purchase branded products, or through specific manufacturers. But this is different. As soon as the chip is installed, it detects functions and features of that particular device, and through the magic of ‘cloud computing’ you can access the controls to your device (washing machine, stove, microwave, lights, etc) from anywhere in the world.

Folks over at Mashable did an extensive video (below) coverage demonstrating how this could actually work. The video shows how people can create their own applications based on the kind of device/gadget/machine they want it to work with, and what unique feature (if they want to add any) should be highlighted. Truly amazing. Sort of an open-source project, Imps are aimed to cost around $25 only.

On a side note, the owners of Electric Imps are former Gmail and iPhone developers. So, the power of Android/Apple combined, and you get this? Thank you world!

Source: Gizmodo

[GadgetTalk]

Source: http://hackadaycom.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/dsc02560.jpg?w=450&h=330

A company named RunCore has come up with a way to make sure your hard drives are as safe as possible – by giving it the ability to self destruct. Forget sophisticated encryption techniques - this is hardcore, people!

The hard drive comes with 2 buttons, a green and a red button. Green one is designed to virtually replace all existing data with random numbers and characters so that your original data disappears. Red one is designed to actually destroy the NAND chip (physical part that recognizes and stores data) on the hard disk, by supplying a stronger than usual electric current – think of a very STRONG electric surge effect. NAND chips are interconnected deeply into the hard drive – in all sectors (sort of like how blood veins are spread apart in our body – supplied by the heart).

Great way to save yourself from the police – if you’re suspected of doing something illegal through your computer!

Source: Gizmodo