Unwired Planet hits Apple, Google with patent suits

Patent troll Unwired Planet has gone on the offensive against Apple and Google.

The company has reportedly filed patent-infringement complaints against the companies over their alleged use of its intellectual property in mobile products. Unwired Planet charges Apple with violating 10 patents related to everything from its device designs to cloud services. Google, too, was hit with 10 claims. RRT News was first to report on the infringement suits.

Companies like Unwired Planet don't create products or services. Instead, patent trolls wait for another firm to develop products that allegedly infringe their intellectual property, then pounce. Allegedly offending companies often choose to license the patent; those that fail to do so typically face a protracted lawsuit.

Unwired Planet earlier this year completed the sale of its Mediation and Messaging product businesses, leaving it open to focus solely on patents. At that time, the company made clear that it would "protect its patent portfolio of approximately 200 issued U.S. and foreign patents, and approximately 75 pending applications, many of which are considered foundational to mobile communications."

Unwired Planet is certainly no stranger to lawsuits. The company, which previously called itself Openwave Systems, filed a lawsuit against Apple and Research In Motion, claiming those companies violated five of its patents. Today's lawsuit against Apple extends beyond that earlier litigation.

Still, Apple and Google are no strangers to lawsuits, either. Apple, especially, is locked in bitter patent disputes with Samsung over mobile technology. Google's Motorola is also involved in several cases.

It's not currently clear which products from Apple and Google are allegedly infringing Unwired Planet's patents. CNET has contacted Unwired Planet for more details.

CNET has also contacted Google and Apple for comment on the lawsuit. We will update this story when we have more information.

(Via The Next Web)

Don Reisinger 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57516806-94/unwired-planet-hits-apple-google-with-patent-suits/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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23.04 | 0 komentar | Read More

Unwired Planet hits Apple, Google with patent infringement suits

Unwired Planet, a company that has been called a patent troll by some, has gone on the offensive against Apple and Google.

The company has reportedly filed patent-infringement complaints against the companies over their alleged use of its intellectual property in mobile products. Unwired Planet charges Apple with violating 10 patents related to everything from its device designs to cloud services. Google, too, was hit with 10 claims. RRT News was first to report on the infringement suits.

Sometimes called "patent trolls" by critics, companies like Unwired Planet do not create products or services. Instead, the companies license patents or wait for another firm to allegedly use one of their intellectual property illegally, then pounce. Allegedly offending companies often choose to license the patent; those that fail to do so are typically brought into a protracted lawsuit.

Unwired Planet earlier this year completed the sale of its Mediation and Messaging product businesses, leaving it open to focus solely on patents. At that time, the company made clear that it would "protect its patent portfolio of approximately 200 issued U.S. and foreign patents, and approximately 75 pending applications, many of which are considered foundational to mobile communications."

Unwired Planet is certainly no stranger to lawsuits. The company, which was known as Openwave Systems last year, filed a lawsuit against Apple and Research In Motion, claiming those companies violated five of its patents. Today's lawsuit against Apple extends beyond that earlier litigation.

Still, Apple and Google are no strangers to lawsuits, either. Apple, especially, is locked in bitter patent disputes with Samsung over mobile technology. Google's Motorola is also involved in several cases.

It's not currently clear which products from Apple and Google are allegedly infringing Unwired Planet's patents. CNET has contacted Unwired Planet for more details.

CNET has also contacted Google and Apple for comment on the lawsuit. We will update this story when we have more information.

(Via The Next Web)

Don Reisinger 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57516806-94/unwired-planet-hits-apple-google-with-patent-infringement-suits/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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Apple applies for another facial unlock patent for iOS devices

Your face is once again the subject of a patent Apple has filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

The technology described in the patent, which was first discovered by Patently Apple, isn't all that different from one that surfaced from the iPhone maker in December, which described a method for users to lock and unlock their handsets with their face. However, the latest technology uses the front-facing camera on a mobile device to determine whether to lock or unlock the product.

According to Patently Apple, the front-facing camera takes rapid snapshots that then translate into an action. If a phone is on but the camera can't see a person looking at the display, it'll lock the product. Conversely, if a person picks up the device, the camera will recognize that and unlock it.

To add a bit more flavor to the patent, Apple also describes the use of sensors in a respective device that can determine whether a device should be locked or unlocked. For example, the respective device could sense someone holding it, gripping it, or moving it in some fashion, and then execute a locking or unlocking function.

It's the face, though, that has proven most appealing to companies. Back in December, in fact, Apple filed for a patent on a technology that would recognize a person's face and use that as the authentication needed to access user profiles or other important information. Earlier this month, Google was awarded a patent on a technology that will identify a person's face and deliver full access to personal information.

Face-to-unlock is already available in the wild. The Samsung Galaxy S3, for example, has a face unlock application. Samsung's Galaxy Nexus also comes with the feature and allows people to snap a picture of themselves to unlock their smartphone.

Don Reisinger 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57516638-37/apple-applies-for-another-facial-unlock-patent-for-ios-devices/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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That didn't take long: iOS 6 already jailbroken -- with a catch

Less than a day after iOS 6 was made available, Apple's mobile operating system has been jailbroken.

The iPhone Dev-Team -- a group of hackers who target Apple products and who do not work for the company -- is reporting today that its Redsn0w tethered jailbreak will work with Apple's iOS 6. However, according to Redmond Pie, which was first to report on the news, only the iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and fourth-generation iPod Touch will work with the jailbreak.

That iOS 6 was jailbroken already shouldn't come as a surprise. Dating all the way back to iOS 4, hackers have been able to jailbreak Apple's operating system less than a day after its launch. Last year, in fact, they took aim at the iOS 5 beta release, and jailbroke it in hours.

Apple's iOS 6, which comes with over 200 improvements, launched yesterday as an over-the-air update. The operating system is also running on Apple's iPhone 5, which is slated to hit store shelves tomorrow.

Apple has frowned on jailbreaking in the past, saying that the practice can cause instability in the operating system and potentially put it at risk of security problems. For jailbreakers, however, the practice is a great way to get applications onto the device that aren't available in Apple's App Store.

Don Reisinger 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57516596-37/that-didnt-take-long-ios-6-already-jailbroken-with-a-catch/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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HTC Windows Phone 8X vs. Nokia Lumia 920: Specs and more

Double take! The Nokia Lumia 920 (L) and HTC Windows Phone 8X (R) could be twins.

(Credit: CNET)

There's no mistaking it: the Windows Phone 8 battle is heating up. HTC just announced its high-end HTC Windows Phone 8X for AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, two weeks after Nokia unveiled the Lumia 920.

The resemblance between the two phones is readily apparent, and more than skin deep. Like the Lumia 920, the HTC Windows Phone 8X drops the phone screen into a richly colored slablike unibody design. Like the Lumia 920, it also shares the same processor, LTE and NFC capability, and high-definition screens.

	HTC Windows Phone 8X	Nokia Lumia 920
Colors	Red, yellow, black, blue	Red, yellow, black, white, gray
Display	4.3-inch Super LCD 2; 1,280x720 pixels, 342 ppi	4.5-inch AMOLED; 1,280x768 pixels, 332 ppi
LTE, NFC	Yes	Yes
Processor	1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4	1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4
Carriers	AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon	Unannounced
Availability	November	"Holiday season"
Price	$199.99	Unannounced
Weight and thickness	4.6 ounces, 0.39 inch	6.5 ounces, 0.42 inch
Cameras	8-mp rear; 2.1-mp front	8.7-mp rear; 1-mp front
Memory	16MB; 1GB RAM	32GB; 1GB RAM
Battery	1,800mAh, embedded	2,000mAh, embedded
Bluetooth	Bluetooth 2.1	Bluetooth 3.1
SIM	Micro-SIM	Micro-SIM
Extras	Beats Audio	Wireless charging, Dolby Audio

Yet, there are important differences between the two, and these go beyond the specs. I unfortunately don't have the phones in-house to compare side by side, but CNET has gotten hands on both devices, and we know a lot about HTC and Nokia's strengths and weaknesses firsthand. While this analysis certainly isn't final, it is based on knowledge and experience. I'll update this post when we get the phones in for review.

Design
One look at the two phones and you wonder if HTC will have a lawsuit on its hands. They're eerily similar, and HTC's apparent mimicry doesn't make a strong case for the originality of its flagship Windows phone. It's a bizarre move for HTC, and one that doesn't fit into its typical design philosophy. At least the HTC Windows Phone 8X seems to be well-crafted.

HTC's phone is significantly smaller, lighter, and thinner than the Lumia 920, which may give it a leg up for those who prefer more pocketable devices. We'll have fun comparing the two devices side by side.

Displays
The Lumia 920 has the slightly larger display, 4.5 inches as opposed to the Windows Phone 8X's 4.3 inches. Nokia and HTC use different screen technologies; the Lumia 920's AMOLED display should offer the richer, more vibrant color, but the 8X's LCD 2 material could be brighter in absolute terms.

Resolution on both HD screens will be similar, with HTC gaining the theoretical advantage with higher pixel density, 342 pixels per inch versus the Lumia's 332 ppi. HTC's 8X should look slightly sharper, but both phones' pixel density is quite high.

Which phone is this? Believe it or not, it's the HTC Windows Phone 8X.

(Credit: Brian Bennett/CNET)

Let's not forget the question of outdoor legibility. Nokia boasted about its glare-cutting filter, which it named ClearBlack Display. In the Lumia 920, Nokia promises that owners will be able to read on the beach or in the desert. HTC doesn't make such claims, but that doesn't mean its 8X will completely wash out in the sun.

Camera
The camera is one of the fight's major toss-ups. The 8X includes HTC's image chip and 8-megapixel camera, which we've seen in action on the HTC One X and One S phones. Shutter lag is virtually nonexistent, and photo quality is very high.

On the other hand, Nokia's 8.7-megapixel shooter could be great -- or it might disappoint like the Lumia 900's did. Despite sharing the same photo-rendering algorithms, Nokia's 808 PureView camera isn't a reliable indicator of the Lumia 920's performance, since the 808 was equipped with an excellent and enormous 41-megapixel sensor that let the light stream in. (More on smartphone camera quality here.)

When it comes to the front-facing cameras, HTC's 2.1-megapixel front-facer has the upper hand over Nokia's 1-megapixel contribution.

Processor and performance
With the same 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor, the same Windows Phone 8 OS, and the same 4G LTE speeds, the 8X and the Lumia 920 should run neck and neck for performance. Of course, we'll test this when we can get the phones together.

On the Bluetooth front, HTC made the strange decisions to give the 8X Bluetooth 2.1, whereas the Lumia 920 follows Bluetooth 3.1 standards. The best-case scenario would see both phones with Bluetooth 4.0 for easy tapping and pairing. At least with NFC on both handsets, there's room to pair with third-party accessories using the near field communication standard.

Battery and memory
When it comes to the battery, Nokia's 2,000mAh embedded battery edges the 8X's 1,800mAh equally nonremovable ticker. Yet that doesn't mean its run time will triumph. In theory, the AMOLED screen is more power-efficient than the 8X's LCD technology, but the Lumia 920's larger screen will also require more power than the slightly smaller 8X display.

Depending on your usage and brightness settings, runtime per charge could be shorter, longer, or identical. (Here's the low-down on advancements to smartphones batteries.)

Memory is more straightforward, and the round goes to the Lumia 920's 32GB of onboard memory, plus 7GB of free Microsoft SkyDrive storage. HTC's 8X comes in a 16GB model, and while SkyDrive is available on every Windows Phone, HTC didn't announce plans to offer it free. Both phones have 1GB RAM, and neither comes with a microSD card slot for additional storage.

Extras
The extra software and hardware tricks are how HTC and Nokia both hope to differentiate their phones. Nokia does this with wireless charging campaign, with its Nokia Drive and Nokia Maps apps, with its Nokia Music app, and with its PureView camera processor, discussed above.

The Nokia Lumia 920 will feature wireless charging using Qi standards.

(Credit: Nokia)

Yet HTC offers Beats Audio, its signature audio-boosting software, and its own HTC ImageChip for photo-processing.

At the outset, Nokia seems to have placed more effort carving out a distinct experience; but in reality, the phones will behave very similarly for core tasks.

Carrier and pricing
Right now, HTC has the benefit of enlisting carriers to help rally customers to the 8X. The phone has a price ($199.99) and not one but three carriers to help lead the charge: AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

Getting Verizon onboard is no small feat. The nation's largest carrier has been Windows Phone-shy for over a year; the 8X will be its second Windows Phone ever.

Nokia hasn't yet announced U.S. carriers, though there are plenty of rumors that point to an October or November Lumia 920 launch on AT&T. The pairing makes sense, since Nokia and AT&T teamed up on the Lumia 900 before it. Pricing will also be key, but if Nokia can't get the Lumia phones on other carriers, it faces an automatic disadvantage to HTC's widespread availability.

What about the Samsung Ativ S?
Samsung's globally announced Ativ S won't pose much threat to either HTC or Nokia here in the U.S.

For one, the Windows 8 smartphone is specced for an HSPA+ chip, and Samsung would surely want it LTE compatible for the U.S. market. Yet, Samsung could very well offer a variant of the Ativ S, which could add some pressure.

The Ativ S features a 4.8-inch HD Super AMOLED screen (306 ppi), a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, and an 8-megapixel camera. One major difference gives the Ativ S 16GB or 32GB options, but also expandable memory. It features a 2,300mAh battery.

Outlook
The Nokia Lumia 920 gets my vote for the storage and Bluetooth arguments, and also for integrating wireless charging using the Qi standard (we have yet to see how efficient this is, however). Yet, other major features on the Lumia 920 and Windows Phone 8X, like the camera performance and screen quality, are too close to call without comparing the two in their polycarbonate flesh.

Since the two handsets are so close, the real question of sales success will come down to pricing and availability. Even if the Lumia 920 proves to be the better phone by a small margin, if it costs more than $200, or arrives on a single carrier, it'll be HTC's game to lose.

Jessica Dolcourt 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57516060-94/htc-windows-phone-8x-vs-nokia-lumia-920-specs-and-more/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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04.05 | 0 komentar | Read More

New T-Mobile CEO plans to bring cool back to the carrier

T-Mobile CEO John Legere.

(Credit: T-Mobile)

Don't expect a lot of big strategic changes to come to T-Mobile USA with new CEO John Legere taking the reins.

The wireless carrier, which is a distant fourth-place player in an industry dominated by Verizon Wireless and AT&T, has the right plan in place to return to growth -- it just needs to execute, Legere told CNET in an interview today. "There are no real missing components in the arsenal," he said of the turnaround strategy. T-Mobile continues to face challenges in catching up to its rivals and slowing down the loss of its most lucrative contract customers. A few months ago, the carrier set out a new roadmap to upgrade its network, move to 4G LTE, and introduce more aggressive mobile device plans as it works to curb its losses. Legere doesn't intend to mess with the plan, saying that he wants, rather, to simply add a "maniacal focus" on execution. That includes bringing back the "coolness" factor to T-Mobile, which he believes the company still embodies and which has allowed it to stand out from its larger competitors. "We're a West Coast tech company," he said. "I spent 18 years in giant companies with buildings with high-shag carpeting. This is different." T-Mobile has already changed up its marketing and messaging, going with a more aggressive stance as illustrated by its spokeswoman, Carly, who has traded in her cute pink dress for leather and a motorcycle. Over the past few weeks, the company has launched a no-strings unlimited data plan and has started a campaign to get consumers to come over with their iPhone -- just the first couple of examples, Legere said, of some of the things T-Mobile plans to do to show that it's back in the game. "There will be a drumbeat of action as the business returns to growth," he said. Neither Legere nor Deutsche Telekom CEO Rene Olbermann would talk about T-Mobile USA possibly carrying the iPhone itself. It's among the few carriers not offering the new iPhone 5. Legere has plenty of experience in shepherding ailing businesses back to health. He took over Global Crossing -- a telecom darling in the 1990s that turned into one of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history -- after it emerged out of Chapter 11, turning it into a player in the Internet and communications services business.

Legere is expected to take some of his enterprise know-how and bring it to T-Mobile. He talked about the opportunity that comes from serving the business sector, and noted that there are many companies out there that feel neglected by the larger carriers and "relegated to secondary status." T-Mobile has hired 1,000 employees to bulk up its business-sales staff.

"The higher touch and direct sales approach can help," he said. On both the consumer and business sides, T-Mobile wants to increase its market share. Given its current small position, even a minor increase could have a dramatically positive effect on the company, Legere said. At the same time, the larger carriers don't see T-Mobile as much of a threat, and are less likely to respond. While critics have questioned T-Mobile's spectrum position and Deutsche Telekom's commitment to the business, Legere believes both are much stronger than perceived. Between the spectrum it got from AT&T from their failed merger deal, to the airwaves it plans to purchase from Verizon Wireless following its cable deal, T-Mobile has a swath of spectrum "that rivals anybody," he said. Likewise, Olbermann took the time to reiterate his faith in T-Mobile. "I truly believe in the opportunity in the U.S. market," he said, adding that the industry has only scratched the surface in providing wireless connectivity to people and devices.

Roger Cheng 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57516166-94/new-t-mobile-ceo-plans-to-bring-cool-back-to-the-carrier/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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03.04 | 0 komentar | Read More

Who has the 'real' Windows Phone? HTC makes its case

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and HTC CEO Peter Chou hold up the Windows Phone 8X and 8S.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

With its Windows Phone 8X and 8S smartphones, has HTC actually replaced Nokia as the darling of Microsoft?

Ever since Microsoft veteran Stephen Elop took the reins at Nokia and struck a transformational deal with his former company to fully back Windows Phone, it was assumed that the fallen Finnish mobile devices giant would be first among equals when it came to the upstart mobile operating system.

Elop assumed the role when he said a year ago that Nokia's Lumia handsets "the first real Windows Phone," a not-so-subtle jab against earlier efforts, and a comment Microsoft has never really denied.

But fast forward to today, and it's HTC -- and not Nokia -- looking like Microsoft's BFF. HTC's phones carry the actual Windows Phone 8 name in them, and may eventually be synonymously linked to the platform.

"The Windows Phone 8X is truly a hero product," said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, essentially blessing it as the flagship Windows Phone product.

HTC is also now the one doing some jabbing of its own.

"It's the true hero that Windows Phone has been waiting for," said Scott Croyle, head of design for HTC, noting that no previous phone really fulfilled the potential of the operating system.

The branding of the phone a coup for HTC, which is badly in need of a win after rolling through a so-so year with its flagship One line of Android smartphones. With Samsung Electronics extending its lead in the Android world, HTC could at least lean more on Windows Phone for its turnaround. The 8X and 8S are expected to get wider distribution than the One phones in the U.S.

Microsoft, meanwhile, appears to be readying a large wave of Windows Phone 8 launches, with Samsung, Nokia, and HTC already committed to its platform. The company has a lot riding on the success of the mobile platform, which directly ties into its Windows 8 operating system for tablets and PCs, and determines whether the software giant will have an important role in the new wireless tech world.

"It's the true hero that Windows Phone has been waiting for."
--Scott Croyle, head of design for HTC

Whether HTC is now the favorite son of Microsoft is debatable, and Nokia would argue its phones are just as impressive, if not more. Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer made an appearance at HTC's event today, as well as Nokia's Windows Phone 8 event two weeks ago. Given the importance of Windows Phone 8, he may pop up at even more Windows Phone events ahead of its launch.

But HTC's rhetoric suggests it has the full backing of Microsoft.

"You can talk about 'real phones,' but hey, we've got the name," HTC representative Jeff Gordon told CNET.

Gauntlet thrown down
In planning for Windows Phone 8, Microsoft and Steve Ballmer challenged HTC CEO Peter Chou to develop a winning smartphone. Chou, in turn, went to his own engineering team with the challenge.

HTC's Windows Phone 8X comes in different colors.

(Credit: Brian Bennett/CNET)

"The gauntlet was thrown down by Microsoft to HTC," Gordon said.

HTC showed a prototype of the device to Microsoft at Mobile World Congress, and Terry Myerson, general manager of Microsoft's Windows Phone program, said he that at the time, he questioned whether a working model would actually remain so thin.

So when HTC came back with early working versions that fulfilled the promise of the prototype, Microsoft came away impressed.

"There were some ooohs and ahhhs," Gordon said.

It was at that point that Microsoft and HTC started talking about the branding of the phone. While Nokia had the Lumia line, and Samsung had its own recently unveiled ATIV line (and prior to that, Omnia), HTC didn't have a family name for its Windows Phone devices.

"There are just a few big brand that are resonating right now," said Jason MacKenzie, president and head of marketing and sales for HTC. "We want to build a brand that was big and differentiated."

Myerson: "We want to build meaning into the Windows Phone 8 brand."

Neither MacKenzie or Myerson would pinpoint when they came up with the name, only saying they had come up with the idea of a singular brand to get behind, and that they had many ongoing discussions that evolved into the Windows Phone 8X and 8S.

HTC's hope is that when a consumer goes into a carrier store asking for a Windows Phone product, the sales staff recommends its phones. Of course, the trick is getting consumers to care about Windows Phone in the first place.

MacKenzie recently told CNET that the company plans to go bolder in establishing its identity with consumers and talking up the advantages of its products. The 8X and 8S represent its first chance to go aggressive with consumers, something it plans to do with Microsoft.

The Windows Phone 8X and 8S represent the largest launch HTC has ever done with Microsoft, he said.

Myerson said Microsoft had a big campaign planned for both Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8, but declined to talk about its size or scope.

Role reversal
The use of different colors, a focus on industrial design, and a superior camera sound familiar, right? These are some of the features Nokia highlighted in its own unveiling of its Windows Phone 8-powered Lumia devices two weeks ago.

There are a lot of similarities between the two lines of smartphones, from some of the features down to the two lines of devices: a high-end flagship model and a more affordable mass-market version. It seemed like just a few months ago, Nokia had the coveted spot as Microsoft's big Windows Phone partner.

Steve Ballmer and Stephen Elop at Microsoft-Nokia event in New York two weeks ago.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

Nokia has had its fair share of publicity and marketing support this year. While HTC had a strong Windows Phone option in the Titan II this year, the Nokia Lumia 900 overshadowed the phone. That's because AT&T, Microsoft, and Nokia collaborated on a marketing blitz for the Lumia 900, blanketing the airwaves and the Internet with commercials.

While Nokia is expected to make a big push, it remains to be seen how Microsoft will back its various partners.

Myerson was reluctant to talk about Microsoft playing favorites, and even floated the idea that better recognition for Windows Phone 8 through HTC's phones could actually help its other handset partners. He noted that the other partners have already invested in their own brands for Windows Phone.

Nokia agreed with the assessment. A company representative told CNET that the launch represented good news for the Windows Phone ecosystem, but touted the Lumia line as one that is "truly differentiated."

It's still unclear how enthusiastically the carriers will push these phones. Nokia and HTC's phones presumably will be available at a number of the large U.S. carriers. Nokia hasn't talked about carrier partnerships yet. HTC, meanwhile, said the availability of its phones in the U.S. would be wider than that of its One series, which only got support from AT&T and T-Mobile USA. AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and T-Mobile are slated to get the Windows Phone 8X or the 8S.

"We feel extremely strong support from the carriers," MacKenzie said.

When it came to its Windows Phone product, HTC worked mostly in the shadows this year. With Windows Phone 8 poised to get a big push by Microsoft, perhaps it's HTC's time now.

Roger Cheng 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515537-94/who-has-the-real-windows-phone-htc-makes-its-case/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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ZTE's first Firefox OS devices to launch in first quarter

The Mozilla Firefox OS in action.

(Credit: Mozilla)

ZTE, one of China's most prominent handset makers, plans to launch smartphones running Firefox early next year.

Speaking today to reporters in China, the company said it'll launch handsets running Firefox OS in the first quarter of 2013. According to the Wall Street Journal, which was in attendance at the press event, the company didn't say how many Firefox OS-based smartphones it'll launch. ZTE also failed to offer up further details on the devices.

Mozilla announced its ZTE partnership over the summer. At that time, the company also named the operating system Firefox OS. The open-source platform uses Linux, but runs applications on a version of Firefox. The goal, Mozilla says, is to "eliminate roadblocks for users and developers" by placing applications in the cloud.

When Mozilla first announced the operating system in February, the company had hoped the first devices would hit store shelves at the end of this year. Now, they're expected to follow ZTE's lead and land in early 2013. Brazil is expected to be the first country to get them.

In addition to investing in Firefox OS, ZTE confirmed today that it will also deliver Windows Phone 8 devices to customers. It doesn't plan to launch those handsets until the end of this year or early 2013.

Don Reisinger 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515945-94/ztes-first-firefox-os-devices-to-launch-in-first-quarter/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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HTC Trade-Up dangles up to $300 for your old smartphone

HTC will now offer trade-in values for old smartphones.

(Credit: via Scott Webster)

HTC, hoping to attract new Android and Windows Phone buyers, is now offering cash back for old smartphones. A new HTC Trade-Up page has gone live online to lets users calculate how much their aging handset might be worth.

The program is essentially a four-step process, starting with a quote for your existing smartphone. Once you buy a new HTC device, they simply mail in their old smartphone. Providing everything matches up with the details you reported to HTC, you'll get your refund in the form of a Visa prepaid card that's good for up to 30 days.

HTC will accept just about any device from any manufacturer or platform

As most readers know, there are a number of other options available to folks looking to get rid of that an smartphone, including eBay, Craigslist, and Swappa. Depending on how much time or effort you want to invest, one of these might be more rewarding route. A Galaxy Nexus (Sprint), for instance, is estimated at $135 on HTC's program whereas eBay currently shows multiple listings at $190 and above.

HTC will be especially keen to start up its new program now that it's launched new Windows phones, like the premium HTC Windows Phone 8X.

Scott Webster 20 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://www.cnet.com/8301-17918_1-57515932-85/htc-trade-up-dangles-up-to-$300-for-your-old-smartphone/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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Verizon gets back on board with Windows Phone

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer holds aloft the HTC Windows Phone 8X at the New York launch event.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

Verizon has never been a staunch supporter of Windows Phone OS, at least in deed. But now, after a long hiatus, the U.S.' largest carrier is offering its first Windows Phone device in over a year. And it's doing it with HTC.

The re-emergence of Verizon as a source for Windows Phone is a tremendous win for Microsoft, which has seen the spread of its OS limited by Verizon's wait-and-see attitude. It's also a boon for HTC, which must struggle to rebound from slipping sales, especially of its Android phones.

The end result of Verizon offering the HTC Windows Phone 8X is a chance for its more than 100 million subscribers to see, handle, and possibly buy a Windows Phone. With AT&T and T-Mobile also on board, HTC will be able to dramatically increase its exposure to customers.

HTC and Microsoft have a long history together; HTC made white-label Windows Mobile phones for a long time. In fact, HTC first became a U.S. brand name on the basis of that partnership. Likewise, HTC and Verizon have a robust history, unlike Nokia, whose Lumia 920 and Lumia 820 the HTC phones challenge.

HTC's Windows Phone 8X handset features high-end specs like a 4.3-inch Super LCD 2 screen, a 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor, an 8-megapixel camera, a 2-megapixel front-facing camera, and 1080p HD video. Of course, there's also NFC and 4G LTE speeds on board.

Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T are slated to get the Windows Phone 8X or Windows Phone 8S in November.

Stay tuned, more analysis to come...

Jessica Dolcourt 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515915-94/verizon-gets-back-on-board-with-windows-phone/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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HTC co-opts Microsoft's Windows Phone name for 8X, 8S

A pack of Windows Phone 8S devices in different colors.

(Credit: Brian Bennett/CNET)

HTC pulled the curtain back on its Windows Phone 8X and 8S smartphones, the latest takes on Microsoft's upcoming mobile platform.

It's shaping up to be an aggressive launch for Windows Phone 8, which already has the backing of Samsung, Nokia, and now HTC. The phones are expected to debut in November, following closely behind the launch of the desktop and tablet operating system Windows 8.

It's an illustration of Microsoft's confidence in HTC that the Windows Phone name will actually be used as the name of its devices, perhaps dampening Nokia's claim to being the "real" Windows Phone devices.

The HTC phones come in different vibrant colors and boast strong camera technology. They also feature more than a passing resemblance to Nokia's own Lumia line of Windows Phone handsets, which also come in a variety of color. The company said its engineers didn't decide to add colors to its phones because of Nokia.

"We don't feel the need to respond," said HTC representative Jeff Gordon.

HTC unveiled the two phones at an event in New York today. Pricing for the two phones is still up in the air, although the Windows Phone 8X will sell at a higher price than the Windows Phone 8S. Gordon said Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T would sell these phones in November, although he didn't specify which carrier would get which phone.

Both versions come in a variety of bold color, part of HTC's new, bolder approach, with color names such as California Blue and High-rise Grey-Yellow.

The 8X also features an 8-megapixel camera with an HTC ImageChip, which Gordon said would improve the speed of the shots. Other features include a 4.3-inch high-definition Super LCD 2 display, a 2 MB front-facing camera, 1,800 mAh embedded battery, 1.5 gigahertz Qualcomm Snapdragon dual-core processor, 16 gigabytes of space, 1GB of RAM, and Beats audio technology built into the phone.

The lower end 8S, intended to be a mass market phone, packs a 5-megapixel camera, 4-inch Super LCD WVGA display, 1 gigahertz dual-core processor, 4GB of space and 512MB of RAM. It also has a smaller battery at 1,700 mAh. It too has Beats audio technology built into the phone.

Roger Cheng 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515294-94/htc-co-opts-microsofts-windows-phone-name-for-8x-8s/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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LG's public image problem: It doesn't have one

The Optimus G event in New York.

(Credit: Roger Cheng/CNET)

LG must feel like its shouting into the wind when it comes to its smartphones.

The company today showed off the Optimus G, the latest Android super smartphone. The smartphone boasts the most advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon quad-core processor, a 13-megapixel camera, and a hefty 2,100mAh battery.

The question is: will anyone care?

There lies LG's biggest dilemma in the smartphone market. It's not the lack of any particular feature or specification that has hurt the company, but the virtual non-presence it has had for the past few years. LG was late to the smartphone game and has continued to pay for it with minimal consumer awareness and lackluster carrier support.

"This industry changes very quickly and vendors that miss those changes do tend to fade quickly from the public eye," said Hugues de la Vergne, an analyst at Gartner.

It's not like LG hasn't tried its hardest to drum up attention for its smartphones, particularly in the brutally competitive U.S. market. But there seemingly aren't enough parties or fancy launch events to generate any sustainable buzz for the company or its phones. From the Viper to the Revolution, its products are announced and quickly forgotten.

LG is clearly sitting in the also-ran section of handset manufacturers, ranked seventh in the world with 3.8 percent of the global market in the second quarter, according to a Gartner study. That's actually worse than a year ago, when it was ranked sixth with 4.6 percent of the market.

Its brand has taken an even more dramatic hit. The LG name is on average worth roughly $391,000, down by more than half from its year-ago average value of $887,860, according to market research firm General Sentiment. The figure illustrates the drop in online discussion about the company, according to General Sentiment analyst Chelsea Morgan.

The weakness in the mobile devices business is especially glaring when considering that many of its other businesses continue to hum along. It's either in the top position or close in televisions, as well as appliances such as washers and dryers and refrigerators.

Still, LG is hoping to change its fortunes with the Optimus G. Martin Fischler, head of marketing for LG's U.S. operations, told CNET that it is planning on "one of the largest TV campaigns the mobile industry has seen this year."

Feeling the squeeze
LG wasn't always in this position. When the basic phone was still dominant, LG was gunning for a top position in the mobile device food chain. In the U.S., it had a particularly strong ally in Verizon Wireless with hit franchises such as its Chocolate line of phones.

But as the industry begun to move to smartphones powered by the more advanced Android operating system, LG was slow to make the transition. HTC and Motorola Mobility, which bet on Android early, slipped into Verizon's good graces, displacing LG. Motorola continues to share a tight relationship with several high-profile launches with Verizon, and enjoys significant marketing support from the carrier.

At AT&T, LG made a big bet on 3D technology with the Thrill 4G last year, but the phone and its 3D gimmick failed to resonate with consumers. While LG pushed it hard -- throwing a concert featuring Jane's Addiction -- AT&T only gave it modest support.

Carrier support is a lingering issue for LG. Despite an array of smartphones, the company has largely had generate its own awareness for its product, to mixed results. The company's strategy has been to introduce more 4G LTE-enabled handsets to entice the carriers, but it isn't an especially novel plan.

While LG said the Optimus G would be heading to the U.S. in the fourth quarter, it didn't mention a carrier partner. When pressed by CNET on potential partnerships, Fischler, head of marketing for LG's U.S. operations, would only say "stay tuned."

With so many smartphones flooding the market, carrier support is crucial to the visibility of a product. Korean rival Samsung Electronics was similarly late to the smartphone game, but tapped into its carrier relationships and pushed its Galaxy S brand, creating the powerhouse Galaxy S III smartphone, available at virtually every carrier.

In comparison, some of LG's better phones launched overseas never make it to the U.S., or come much later. The ones that do receive little attention, including the jumbo Optimus Vu, which quietly launched last week as the Intuition for Verizon, or the mid-range Optimus L7, sold as the Splendor at U.S. Cellular. The Optimus G was actually unveiled a day ago in South Korea.

A few years ago, when LG finally opted to make the push into smartphones, it opted not for a high-end smartphone, but products that were affordable and targeted first-time smartphone buyers. It was a sound strategy, but one that got it little attention at a time when companies such as Motorola were making waves with their flagship products.

While LG's decision to go the low-cost route has given it a stronger position at prepaid carriers such as MetroPCS, it increasingly faces the threat of lower cost providers such as Huawei and ZTE.

With the Optimus G, LG is figuring to get itself back into the high-end game, but is it too late?

The company is only poised to see further weakness, stuck between the Galaxy S III and Apple's iPhone 5, both of which can be found at multiple carriers.

Recapturing the buzz
LG was a major player in the handset business, and it can be again.

The Optimus G is a nice start. It's a phone with eye-catching power, packing all of the specs that an Android fanboy could ask for. It features Qualcomm's first quad-core processor, allowing it to handle multiple apps on the screen simultaneously. But specs aren't everything.

"Despite good specs, it's very easy to get lost in the shuffle," said Ross Rubin, an analyst for Reticule Research.

But the phone really is just a start. Just like Samsung, LG needs heavy promotion and carrier support. It needs a major player such as Verizon to back it the way it backs Motorola and its Droid franchise. LG and Verizon once had a tight relationship, and LG needs to tap into that legacy.

Fischler said he believes the Optimus G will get an adequate push appropriate to the quality of the phone.

"They will be excited about this phone," he said.

LG will also explore "non-traditional means" of promoting the device, although he declined to get too specific. He mentioned that the event in New York, a more intimate breakfast event to show off the capabilities of the phone, represented one example of its different tact. Social would also play into the promotion, he added.

LG previously had a good relationship with T-Mobile USA, which carried its G2X, which turned some heads for being the first smartphone to run a dual-core processor. CNET gave it a positive review, although users were less generous.

LG, however, failed to build upon that interest level, leaving it where it is today: a company that's starved for attention.

Roger Cheng 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515368-94/lgs-public-image-problem-it-doesnt-have-one/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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Quad-core Samsung Galaxy Note 2 launches with 5 carriers

Samsung Galaxy Note 2: Samsung's next-generation phablet.

(Credit: Jessica Dolcourt/CNET)

The first quad-core LTE smartphone in the U.S. is almost here, and it comes to our shores extra-large. In launching the Samsung Galaxy Note 2, Samsung is hoping to repeat its own success with sales on the the Galaxy S3 just a few months before, while also setting a record for the first quad-core smartphone to reach U.S. retail shelves.

The Korea-based manufacturer announced today that it intends to kick off the 5.5-inch Android 4.1 Jelly Bean "phablet," a smartphone with tabletlike proportions, on the same five carriers that initially offered the Galaxy S3 this summer. Moreover, the smartphone will carry Samsung's 1.6 GHz Exynos processor.

Although Samsung didn't share exact dates or prices, it did promise to deliver the premium, stylus-driven smartphones by mid-November on AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular, and Verizon. Samsung will let individual carriers reveal their own pricing and availability in the coming weeks.

Since Samsung is positioning the Galaxy Note 2 as a more powerful and larger version of the GS3, we can expect it to be pricier than the GS3 is now, or the same price, with the GS3 dropping to promotional figures.

The Note 2's S Pen stylus makes it a different product than the Galaxy S3 (GS3) in many respects, but in others, the Galaxy Note 2 is a continuation of the GS3's young legacy -- the Note 2's design builds on the same physical form as the GS3, but larger, and with the more flexible S Pen and attending software extras.

Like the GS3, the Note 2 will feature an 8-megapixel camera, a front-facing camera, and support for 1080p HD video. The screen is also HD Super AMOLED. The Note 2 will also hold 2GB of internal RAM; and will come with 16 GB of onboard file storage, plus support for up to 64GB of expandable memory through a microSD card.

We'll offer more details when we get them. In the meantime, get to know the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 in our hands-on take.

Jessica Dolcourt 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19736_7-57515568-251/quad-core-samsung-galaxy-note-2-launches-with-5-carriers/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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LG's quad-core-packing Optimus G to head to U.S. in Q4

LG's latest super phone, the Optimus G, will head to the U.S. in the fourth quarter, according to the head of its U.S. marketing unit.

LG executive James Fischler, speaking at an event in New York, touted it as one of the most powerful and fastest smartphones in the market.

The Optimus G, which was announced earlier in South Korea, is the first phone to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon quad-core processor.

Jessica Dolcourt 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515685-94/lgs-quad-core-packing-optimus-g-to-head-to-u.s-in-q4/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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Choosing an iPhone 5 carrier

AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint will carry the Apple iPhone 5 with 4G LTE.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

Now that CNET's verdict is in about the iPhone 5 and preorders are through the roof, you might want to consider how important a carrier is in terms of overall user experience, if you're even remotely eyeing the device for yourself.

While Cricket Wireless and the regional carrier, C Spire, will offer the iPhone 5 starting September 28, it'll be sold under the major carriers -- AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint -- starting September 21. Each of these three networks have different plans, prices, and bundles, with Sprint being the only one with a full unlimited plan. However, with all the little nuanced phone plans offered by these companies, it can get confusing for those of you who are free agents looking for a new carrier contract to sign.

To make it a bit clearer, we broke down some of the basic but important facts worth considering when shopping for the new iPhone. And if you have more questions about the device itself, be sure to check out our FAQ and our full iPhone 5review.

AT&T

• 4G network coverage: Launched September 18, 2011. Currently available in 60 markets with 47 more by the end of 2012.

• Unlimited or tiered data plans?: AT&T offers no unlimited data option for new users. Depending on your bundle, you can end up paying $10 per extra gigabyte.

• Talk, text, and data plan price range (for Individual): $59 to $139 a month.

• Monthly plan breakdown: If you're under 65 years of age, the cheapest nationwide talk plan is $39.99/month for 450 minutes. Unlimited talk is $69.99 a month. Adding data will be at least an extra $20/month for 300MB. The most expensive is $50/month for 5GB. For unlimited text messaging, that's an extra $20/month.

• Overseas use: AT&T's GSM unit will function overseas, but we are waiting for confirmation from AT&T to know if customers will be able to unlock their SIMs.

• Simultaneous voice and data: Just like AT&T's iPhone 4S, the company told CNET that customers will be able to talk and surf the Web at the same time on the 5.

• FaceTime over cellular network: iPhone's video-calling service, FaceTime, will be able to work over a cellular connection with iOS 6. AT&T, however, stated that only those enrolled in its Mobile Share plan will be able to use it. All others can only use FaceTime over a Wi-Fi network.

• Expected ship date: AT&T's site states that the iPhone 5 will ship in 14-21 business days, meaning the latest it could ship is October.

• Other considerations: Though AT&T neophytes won't get an unlimited option, those who've been grandfathered in with its $30/month unlimited data plan a long, long time ago, will still be able to keep it when purchasing the iPhone 5. Just keep in mind that after reaching 5GB, you'll get throttled.

Verizon Wireless

• 4G network coverage: Launched on December 5, 2010. Currently available in 371 markets with 29 more expected by the end of 2012.

• Unlimited or tiered data plans?: Verizon doesn't offer an unlimited data plan for new customers. Depending on your bundle, you can end up paying $15 per extra gigabyte.

• Talk, text, and data plan price range (for Individual): $80 to $190 a month.

• Monthly plan breakdown: The cheapest rate is $80/month for unlimited talk and text with 300MB of data (the other options are $90/month for 1GB, $100/month for 2GB, and the most expensive is $190/month for 20GB).

• Overseas use: In the U.S., Verizon users won't be able to switch to a GSM network, but they can overseas. In addition, the company will unlock global SIMs for customers who are in good standing and have stuck with the carrier for 60 days.

• Simultaneous voice and data: Unfortunately, Verizon told CNET that customers need to be on Wi-Fi if they want to surf the Internet and place a call simultaneously. While there are plenty of Verizon 4G LTE phones that allow talk and data at the same time, Verizon's iPhone 5, however, won't be able to do this due to a lack of a third antenna.

• FaceTime over cellular network: Unlike AT&T, Verizon will offer FaceTime over its cellular network for all data plans at no extra cost.

• Expected ship date: Verizon said it'll deliver the handsets by September 28.

• Other considerations: The Big Red is a little confusing with its unlimited plan for existing users, but here it is in a nutshell: Once upon a time, customers had unlimited data for $30/month. Users can keep this plan when shopping for new a phone only if they renew their contract and purchase said phone for the full, unsubsidized price. So if we go by the last model's pricing, then the iPhone 5 will probably cost you $649, $749, or $849 (depending if you want the 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB versions) if you want to keep your unlimited plan.

Sprint

• 4G network coverage: Launched July 15, 2012. Currently available in 19 cities with 100 more "under way."

• Unlimited or tiered data plans?: Sprint offers unlimited talk, data, and messaging for $109.99/month.

• Talk, text, and data plan price range (for Individual): $79.99 to $109.99 a month.

• Monthly plan breakdown: Sprint's most bare-bones plan is its "Basic" option, which offers 200 anytime minutes for $29.99/month (450 minutes and 900 minutes cost $39.99/month and $59.99/month, respectively). If you want unlimited messaging, that's an extra $10/month (though, there is no unlimited messaging option for just the 200-minute plan). If you're cool with these talk limitations but want unlimited data, that'll be an extra $30 a month stacked on top. That means if you start out with the 450 minutes a month plan, it'll be $79.99/month for unlimited text and data.

• Overseas use: Similar to Verizon, Sprint users can't switch to a GSM network in the U.S., but can do so overseas. And if you've paid your bills on time and have been with Sprint for 90 days, it will unlock your SIM for global usage.

• Simultaneous voice and data: Sprint confirmed that customers will not be able to access voice and data capabilities simultaneously. Similar to Verizon, this is because Sprint's iPhone 5 doesn't have a third antenna that would make this feature possible.

• FaceTime over cellular network: There will be no restrictions on cellular usage for FaceTime over Sprint's network.

• Expected ship date: Sprint users should expect their iPhone 5s on launch day, September 21.

• Other considerations: One iPhone 5 feature that Apple touted during its presentation yesterday was wideband audio (or HD Voice), which lends to better call quality. Sprint offers HD Voice, but confirmed that it won't be available on the iPhone 5.

Lynn La 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19512_7-57512327-233/choosing-an-iphone-5-carrier/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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So, what's new? Comparing the iPhone 4S and iPhone 5

After months of rumors, endless "leaked" images, and tons of analyst reports, Apple finally introduced its latest smartphone, the iPhone 5 last week. In addition to its new look, it also received some hardware and feature updates. To see what changed and what stayed the same, CNET put together this handy comparison chart that stacks up the device with its previous iteration, the iPhone 4S. Take a look and be sure to read our full iPhone 5 review.

Dimensions 4.5 inches tall, 2.3 inches wide, 0.37 inches thick; 4.9 ounces 4.87 inches tall, 2.3 inches wide, 0.30 inch thick; 3.95 ounces Display 3.5-inch Retina Display with 960x640-pixel resolution and 326 ppi; 3:2 aspect ratio 4-inch Retina Display with 1,136x640-pixel resolution and 326ppi; 16:9 aspect ratio Camera 8-megapixel camera with LED flash, 1080p HD video recording at 30fps, auto focus, face detection, HDR shooting mode, f2.4 aperture, backside illumination, hybrid IR filter, five-element lens; front-facing VGA camera 8-megapixel camera with LED flash and 3,264x2448-pixel resolution, 1080p HD video recording at 30fps, auto focus, face detection, HDR and panoramic shooting modes, f2.4 aperture, backside illumination, hybrid IR filter, five-element lens, dynamic low-light mode; front-facing 1.2-megapixel camera with 720p HD video recording Connectivity Bluetooth 4.0; 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi (802.11n 2.4GHz); UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA; GSM/EDGE; CDMA EV-DO Rev. A Bluetooth 4.0; 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi (802.11n 2.4GHz and 5GHz); UMTS/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA; GSM/EDGE; LTE; CDMA EV-DO Rev. A and Rev. B Processor Dual-core 1GHz A5 processor with dual-core graphics A6 processor Current capacity 16GB 16GB, 32 GB, 64GB Location Assisted GPS, digital compass, Wi-Fi, cellular    Assisted GPS and GLONASS, digital compass, Wi-Fi, cellular Sensors Three-axis gyro, accelerometer, proximity sensor, ambient light sensor Three-axis gyro, accelerometer, proximity sensor, ambient light sensor Battery life 8 hours of talk time over 3G, 6 hours of browsing over 3G, 14 hours over 2G, 9 hours of browsing over Wi-Fi, 40 hours audio playback, 10 hours of video playback, 200 hours standby 8 hours of talk time over 3G, 8 hours of browsing over 3G, 8 hours of browsing over LTE, 10 hours of browsing over Wi-Fi, 40 hours of audio playback, 10 hours of video playback, 225 hours standby Current carriers AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, Virgin Mobile, Cricket Wireless, C Spire AT&T, Verizon, Sprint Current pricing $99 for 16GB $199 for 16GB, $299 for 32GB, $399 for 64GB Colors Black and white Black and white Audio system Two microphones Three microphones Connector 30-pin connector 8-pin Lightning connector

Jessica Dolcourt, Brian Bennett 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19512_7-57510949-233/so-whats-new-comparing-the-iphone-4s-and-iphone-5/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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iPhone 5 vs. Galaxy S3 vs. Lumia 920: By the numbers

Apple's new iPhone 5.

(Credit: James Martin/CNET)

Update: This story was originally published 09/12/2012 and updated on 9/18/2012 at 6:10pm PT with the full review of the iPhone 5.

The Apple iPhone 5 is finally real. While its specs are premium, the iPhone isn't the only worthwhile smartphone on the block. We compare it, spec to spec, to the top Android and Windows phones: the Samsung Galaxy S3, and Nokia Lumia 920.

Keep in mind that since the Lumia 920 and iPhone 5 aren't yet available, we're limited to educated speculation, rather than to the side-by-side, in-the-flesh evaluation. However, we have now fully reviewed the iPhone 5 and Samsung Galaxy S3. We'll still have to save the final showdown of the three for later, when we have all devices in-house. Until then, we offer up our winners so far for each major category. You don't have to agree with us, and we certainly reserve our right to change our minds when we see the phones in full, but going on the specs, here's how we feel.

Operating system	iOS 6	Android 4.0	Windows Phone 8
Display	4-inch IPS LCD; 1,136x640 pixels, 326 ppi	4.8-inch HD Super AMOLED; 1,280x720 pixels, 306 ppi	4.5-inch AMOLED; 1,280x768 pixels, 332 ppi
Price	$199.99, $299.99, $399.99	$199.99-$329.99, depending on carrier	Unannounced
Carrier	Sept. 21: AT&T, Sprint, Verizon	Now: AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular, Verizon	Unannounced
4G LTE	Yes	Yes	Yes
Camera	8-megapixel, 720p front-facing	8-megapixel, 1.9-megapixel front-facing	8.7-megapixel, 1.2-megapixel front-facing
Processor	Proprietary A6 CPU	1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4	1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4
Memory	16GB, 32GB, 64GB	16GB or 32GB; 2GB RAM	32GB; 1GB RAM
Expandable memory	No	Up to 64GB	No
Battery	Capacity TBA (Talk time up to 8 hours on 3G); embedded	2,100 mAh, removable	2,000 mAh, embedded
NFC	No	Yes	Yes
Weight and thickness	3.95 ounces, 0.3 inches	4.7 ounces, 0.34 inches	6.5 ounces, 0.42 inches
Colors	Black, white	White, blue, red (AT&T); Also, globally: black, brown, gray	Black, white, yellow, red, gray

Design and build
Apple's aluminum-and-glass iPhone 5 retains its super-industrial aesthetic, metal buttons and all. Its new, all-metal backing still looks luxe, even more so than the iPhone 4S thanks to its two-toned design, but with much less glass on its back surface, the iPhone 5 will survive far more drops without shattering. Still, for absolute assurance, we'd recommend a case.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, you have the Nokia Lumia 920, whose yellow, red, white, black, or gray polycarbonate body and rounded edges produce a punch of pop sensibility in an otherwise staid design world. It's a good look for the phone, and a smart one that really helps Nokia stand out; however, distinctiveness and the nevertheless plastic body aren't everyone's cup of tea.

We find the GS3's design appealing, but shiny, glossy plastic doesn't scream "quality." That isn't to say that the GS3 is more prone to breaking or shattering than the other two; in fact, plastic has the benefit of scuffing rather than shattering. However, we do really love the GS3's in-hand feel, which is comfortable despite its much larger size.

Our winner so far: Based on looks alone, we're digging the iPhone 5's familiarly crisp, yet elegant lines most, but we also love the Lumia 920's colorful unibody statement.

The iPhone 5 back will be all aluminum and glass, with fewer breakable panels on the back.

(Credit: CNET)

Screen size and clarity
The iPhone 5's 1,136x640 pixels on its 4-inch screen still yields 326 pixels per inch and gives the phone a 16:9 aspect ratio, wider than the iPhone 4S. However, Apple boasts that its sRGB display delivers 44 percent more color saturation and cuts down on glare. It certainly looked terrific during CNET's weeklong tests, but we'll need the Lumia 920 in-house to test them side-by-side.

Samsung's Galaxy S3 has the largest screen of the three, an 4.8-inch HD Super AMOLED, which yields a 1,280x720-pixel resolution and a pixel density of 306 pixels per inch. Its size offers the most expansive real estate for watching videos, reading, and composing messages, but there are three minor drawbacks: the lowest pixel density of the trio, high reflection, and a dimmer maximum brightness than the iPhone 4S and the HTC One X.

Nokia's Lumia 920 has a 4.5-inch Nokia PureMotion HD+ display, which is a fancy name to describe its AMOLED screen technology. Its WXGA resolution (1,280x768 pixels) is a little higher than the standard HD (1,280x720 pixels). Combined with the screen size and the 332 pixels per inch, resolution could be tighter than on the GS3 and iPhone 5.

Nokia has also brought its ClearBlack Display filter to the Lumia 920; it definitely cut down glare on the Lumia 900, and Nokia claims that this version is even better.

Our winner so far: The GS3 offer the largest screen, but in terms of clarity, the Nokia Lumia 920 theoretically takes this round for its high pixel density and antiglare properties, followed by the iPhone 5, which we already know is excellent.

The iPhone 5 camera improves low-light performance for its 8-megapixel shooter.

(Credit: CNET)

Camera prowess
This is a tough call since all three phones bring their A-game here. The iPhone has set the benchmark in terms of camera phone performance for quite a while and the improvements to the iPhone 5's imaging system will no doubt cement its lead agains the Lumia 920 and the GS3. These include improved low-light performance and a new panorama shooting mode that catches up to Android.

Of course, Android devices in many cases surpass the iPhone. Samsung's Galaxy S3 has a sensor that offers the same 8-megapixel resolution as the iPhone 5, plus it features tons of fancy shooting modes like panorama and multishot burst mode. Apple's new iPhone lets you take photos while you're shooting video, a feature Google introduced in Android 4.0 9 months back.

The Nokia Lumia 920 is the real dark horse in the smartphone camera race. On paper, its 8.7-megapixel camera and PureView technology challenges the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S3 with sharper photo resolution and processing. It also will be able to run special apps within the camera application itself, allowing you to upgrade its functionality greatly over time -- at least that's the theory.

Our winner so far: We've seen the iPhone 5's camera in action, but we still haven't had a chance to compare its camera to either of the other two phones. The automatically-adjusting low-light capabilities of the iPhone 5 especially trumped those of the iPhone 4S, which was already the industry standard. We have yet to see how they all perform in different lighting scenarios. Yet if previous shoot-outs are any indication, each phone will persevere over the others depending on the category. Because Nokia's Lumia 920 is still unproven and the Lumia 900's camera wasn't awe-inspiring, we're tempering our hopes with doubts.

LTE and network promise
A this point, LTE on the iPhone 5 was an inevitability, and a feature that's been in the hopper for some time. Verizon has already sworn that all its new smartphones will have LTE, and AT&T and Sprint are expanding their respective networks.

Our winner so far: Samsung phones have long been LTE-capable and the Nokia Lumia 920 will be Espoo's second LTE phone. Apple is just now catching up.

Battery life
Nokia plans to equip its Lumia 920 with a 2,000 mAh battery, which should provide a good amount of run time, especially considering that Windows Phone has traditionally been a very economical operating system. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S3 comes with a slightly larger 2,100 mAh battery that lasted for well over 9 hours playing video. Apple is coy on the iPhone 5's capacity, but promises that its will offer 10 hours of video playback and 8 hours of Web surfing over LTE.

Of course, if you're constantly using battery-draining features like S-Voice on the Galaxy S3, or streaming video, no phone will last as long as you'd like.

Our winner so far: It's hard to say since we haven't put the Lumia 920 to the test, but the Galaxy S3 is a sure bet for most, plus it offers a removable battery. So far, the iPhone 5 has also lasted a full day on a single charge. We'll conduct formal battery drain tests on the iPhone 5 soon.

S Beam on the Samsung Galaxy S3 makes terrific use of NFC.

(Credit: Josh Miller/CNET)

NFC
Apple's iPhone 5 needed a few features to shore up some weak spots: a larger screen, LTE, and, to a lesser extent, NFC. It got the first two, but Apple didn't mention anything about NFC for the iPhone 5.

NFC, which makes it possible to share content across phones and pay for purchases, might not be a big deal to you, but it is an entire category of software capability that's closed on the iPhone 5.

Our winner so far: Samsung, which was the first to market with file-sharing over NFC, and has been aggressively marketing its S Beam feature.

Voice assistant
Siri in the iPhone 4S and Google's Voice Actions are evenly matched, but Samsung is standing behind its own S Voice assistant, which falls far behind. (We haven't been able to test Siri on the iPhone 5 yet, due to our NDA.)

Nokia phones stick with Microsoft's integrated, much more subtle voice command software, TellMe, but in Windows Phone 8, Microsoft will let third-party app-makers work in their own commands, so you can bark at individual apps like Audible, to read aloud, pause, or stop.

Our winner so far: Among these three phones, Siri takes the voice command cake.

The Nokia Lumia 920 is a promising phone with some exciting, but unproven features.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

Final verdict
If we had to recommend just one handset of the three right now, based on these specs and experience we would (narrowly) choose the iPhone 5 as an all-around phone.

Here's why: Out of these three phones, the iPhone 5 isn't the most innovative, but it is a reliable, intuitive package that earns top points for software and hardware reliability. Solid, strong, beautiful design, LTE speeds, and a proven camera that just gets better and better meets iTunes and app store robustness and the new iOS with turn-by-turn voice navigation and 3D flyovers. It lacks NFC, yes, but the hardware feature isn't yet ubiquitous; the majority of casual users won't notice, or even register, its absence.

The Samsung Galaxy S3 has a ton of really neat, innovative new features, but it also has far more trip-ups, which make for a less smooth experience overall. We still love the GS3, but the rich, highly customizable Android 4.0 interface is too much for some users, and many of Samsung's innovations, especially in content-sharing, are more complicated to use and not very universal.

We're also very excited to review the Lumia 920, which offers NFC, wireless charging, and promises of a gorgeous display. However, we're less enamored of Nokia maps, getting multimedia still isn't as robust as iOS or Android, and there's a question hanging over the camera, a major selling point for us. We'd also like to see how well wireless charging works; a stumble here would be a major stumble indeed.

The original Lumia 900 camera fell short of expectations, so until we see the Lumia 920's 8.7-megapixel PureView lens in action, we're much less certain about its real-life performance. Nokia's recent camera kerfuffle certainly doesn't instill unquestioning confidence.

This isn't by any means a blow-away verdict, and the results will be very much up for debate when the Lumia 920 comes into our offices for scrutiny and we can get all three phones in our hands at once.

The iPhone 5 is an excellent, proficient, and stylish smartphone with few stumbles, yet it faces its stiffest competition yet. If you're at all on the fence about the iPhone 5, it's worth waiting for the Nokia Lumia 920, or weighing the characteristics you value most against the Samsung Galaxy S3. If you're already leaning toward the iPhone 5, do yourself the favor and buy it.

Which phone do you back, and why? Share with us in the comments.

Jessica Dolcourt, Brian Bennett 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19512_7-57510802-233/iphone-5-vs-galaxy-s3-vs-lumia-920-by-the-numbers/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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HTC teases new device on eve of announcement

Is it a phone? Is it a tablet? Is it even Android? Oh HTC, you're so 'quietly brilliant.'

(Credit: HTC)

HTC has taken to Facebook and Twitter to begin teasing a new product less than 24 hours before its debut.

To tease its followers, HTC paired the above image with the phrase "When beautiful hardware meets stunning software." Looks great, right, but what is it? At last check, it could be one of a number of devices, including an Android smartphone or two Android-based tablets.

On the handset front, HTC has been tied to whispers of a 5-inch device with a 1080p HD display. Possibly arriving as a Verizon exclusive, one name that is getting tossed around as of late is Droid Incredible X. Additional details point to 1.5GB RAM, 16GB internal storage, and a quad-core Snapdragon processor. In terms of software, the Droid Incredible X is said to run Android 4.1 Jelly Bean with a slightly tweaked Sense 4.5 user interface.

Moving over to tablets, it's possible that HTC has been prepping both an ew 7-inch and a 10-inch Android experience. The smaller device would likely be considered a successor to the Flyer and may include support for the Scribe digital pen. Rumored to run Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, the specs are listed as including a 7-inch 1,280x768-pixel display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor, a 3-megapixel camera on the rear, and a 1-megapixel front-facing camera. Reportedly packed into a slim 7.1mm thin anodized aluminum body, the presumed Flyer 2 could feature a dual-core or quad-core chipset.

The 10-inch HTC tablet recently saw its share of photo leaks, however the hardware details remain a mystery. Looking somewhat Apple-esque in its form factor, the unnamed model could be the rumored quad-core Quattro. Should that prove true, consumers may anticipate a Tegra 3 quad-core processor, 1GB RAM, and Beats Audio.

While all of this Android stuff sounds great, it's not a certainty that HTC will be announcing something with Google's platform. There's the off-chance that HTC simply announces some new Windows Phone products, leaving Android for another day. Whatever the case may be, CNET will be on the ground tomorrow, live-blogging HTC's next new thing.

Scott Webster 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19736_7-57515246-251/htc-teases-new-device-on-eve-of-announcement/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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The quad-core ZTE Grand Era U985 debuts in China

The ZTE Grand Era U985.

(Credit: ZTE)

Even though the title of the "slimmest" phone changes hands almost every other week, ZTE has claimed the superlative (for now) with its ZTE Grand Era U985. Unveiled recently at a tech expo in China, the phone is a quad-core device with a 0.31-inch profile.

The Nvidia Tegra 3-equipped handset also has a 4.5-inch HD display with 1,280x720-pixel resolution and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera.

The phone operates on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and will be made available to Chinese customers in the next few days.

In addition to the Era U985, ZTE will also show two other quad-core devices at the expo, the Grand Era V985 and the Grand Era LTE.

While I'm excited that ZTE has stepped it up a notch and decked out a few of its phones with quad-core CPUs, the OEM isn't the greatest when it comes to delivering even the most entry-level of reliable handsets. Until we get a review unit in, however, here's hoping the Era U985 will usher in a new era (ha, see what I did?) of solid, high-spec devices for ZTE.

Lynn La 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515212-94/the-quad-core-zte-grand-era-u985-debuts-in-china/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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HTC's 'what's next' event: Join us Wednesday (live blog)

What exactly does HTC have up its sleeve? Find out all of the details right here.

HTC is holding a product event in New York, which kicks off at 11 a.m. PT. CNET's Brian Bennett and I will be there bringing you all of the action live.

You can tune into the live blog here:

CNET's live coverage of HTC's event on Wednesday

HTC's event is just the latest in a long line of product announcements, from Apple's iPhone 5 event to Nokia's launch of its next-generation Lumia line of Windows Phone 8 smartphones.

HTC, like many of its peers in the smartphone world, has been in a rut. The company's One series of Android smartphones has only seen mixed success, and the gap between it and leaders Apple and Samsng are widening.

As a result, HTC is looking for a catalyst to bring some excitement back to the company. It has already promised to be bolder and more aggressive and its cranks up its turnaround effort.

We'll see if HTC's next round of products will give it the shot it badly needs.

CNET will use ScribbleLive to bring you live text and photos, along with blow-by-blow commentary. We'll start the live blog about 30 minutes before the event officially kicks off.

Roger Cheng 19 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57515226-94/htcs-whats-next-event-join-us-wednesday-live-blog/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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U.S. ITC to investigate Apple at Motorola's request

The U.S. International Trade Commission is taking a deeper look into Apple's most popular products.

The organization today announced that it will investigate certain Apple iPhones, iPods, iPads, and Macs, after Motorola requested the inquiry last month.

In the motion filed last month, Motorola asked the ITC to determine if Apple's products violate section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 by infringing patents the company claims to hold. If the devices are found to have violated Motorola's patents, the company has asked the ITC to issue exclusion and cease-and-desist orders against Apple's products.

Motorola's motion came a week before the ITC ruled that Apple did not violate three Motorola patents covering 3G wireless technology. A fourth patent was sent back to Administrative Law Judge Thomas Pender to determine if Apple violated it in its mobile products. However, it could take over a year before the judge makes a decision on the matter. After that, the judgement will be sent back to the ITC panel.

This latest investigation into Apple's devices won't yield any final results anytime soon. The ITC will need to assign the case to one of its administrative law judges, who will then schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. After that, the judge will make an initial determination, which will then be reviewed by the ITC's panel of judges. Even then, a final determination might not be arrived at, and in most cases, it takes several months to even come close to hitting that point.

CNET has contacted both Apple and Motorola for comment on the investigation. We will update this story when we have more information.

This story has been updated throughout the morning.

Don Reisinger 18 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57515016-37/u.s-itc-to-investigate-apple-at-motorolas-request/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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Virgin Mobile user accounts are easily hacked, developer claims

A developer is taking Virgin Mobile USA to task, arguing that its username and password handling put users at risk.

Kevin Burke yesterday took to his personal blog to report that Virgin Mobile's authentication process only allows for users to input numbers as their account PIN. What's worse, he says, the password is limited to six numbers, leaving "only one million possible passwords you can choose."

"This is horribly insecure," Burke wrote. "Compare a 6-digit number with a randomly generated 8-letter password containing uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and digits -- the latter has 218,340,105,584,896 possible combinations. It is trivial to write a program that checks all million possible password combinations, easily determining anyone's PIN inside of one day."

"I verified this by writing a script to 'brute force' the PIN number of my own account," he continued. While Virgin apparently does freeze accounts after several failed login attempts, Burke wrote that clearing browser cookies between login attempts sidesteps that security measure.

Burke claims that hackers who force their way into an account could read the user's call and SMS logs, change handsets associated with the account, and even purchase new handsets.

Before disclosing his findings publicly, Burke spent a month trying to alert Virgin Mobile to the problem. One rep on Twitter care center directed him to the Virgin Mobile "Authentication and Contact" section of its General Terms and Conditions. That section discusses how the PIN works, and explains that the company may "treat any person who presents your credentials that we deem sufficient for account access as you or an authorized user on the account for disclosure of information or changes in Service."

Burke writes that he was referred to a representative at Sprint Executive and Regulatory Services, who eventually told him not to expect further action from Virgin Mobile. (Virgin Mobile USA is a "prepaid brand" of Sprint Nextel.) At that point, Burke decided to go public.

So far, there's no indication that anyone has exploited the vulnerability Burke claims to have identified -- certainly not on a large scale.

CNET has contacted Virgin for comment on Burke's findings. We will update this story when we have more information.

(Via Wired)

Don Reisinger 18 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1009_3-57514967-83/virgin-mobile-user-accounts-are-easily-hacked-developer-claims/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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Virgin Mobile chastised for PIN authentication 'vulnerability'

Virgin Mobile has come under fire from a developer that's not so pleased about the company's username and password handling.

Kevin Burke yesterday took to his personal blog to report that Virgin Mobile's authentication process only allows for users to input numbers as their account PIN. What's worse, he says, the password is limited to six numbers, leaving "only one million possible passwords you can choose."

"This is horribly insecure," Burke wrote. "Compare a 6-digit number with a randomly generated 8-letter password containing uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and digits -- the latter has 218,340,105,584,896 possible combinations. It is trivial to write a program that checks all million possible password combinations, easily determining anyone's PIN inside of one day.

"I verified this by writing a script to 'brute force' the PIN number of my own account," he continued.

The information that could be obtained from the hack is by no means trivial. Burke claims that hackers could read the user's call and SMS logs, change handsets associated with the account, and even purchase new handsets.

Burke didn't just stop at his blog. He also asked Virgin Mobile about it on the company's Twitter page. Its customer care center directed him to the Virgin Mobile "Authentication and Contact" section of its General Terms and Conditions. That section discusses how the PIN works, and explains that the company may "treat any person who presents your credentials that we deem sufficient for account access as you or an authorized user on the account for disclosure of information or changes in Service."

Despite Burke's issues, however, it's important to note that his findings are only a potential vulnerability. So far, there has been no known widespread attack on Virgin Mobile accounts.

CNET has contacted Virgin for comment on Burke's findings. We will update this story when we have more information.

(Via Wired)

Don Reisinger 18 Sep, 2012

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Source: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1009_3-57514967-83/virgin-mobile-chastised-for-pin-authentication-vulnerability/?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=DialedIn
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