Two months after its launch, the latest version of Apple Inc.’s iPhone is showing strong sales around the world — except in Japan.
Apple’s partnership with Japan’s third-largest mobile operator, Softbank Corp., to sell the iPhone 3G certainly created a buzz. Like elsewhere, Japanese consumers lined up at stores in advance of the phone’s release on July 11, and many locations sold out almost immediately. But now analysts estimate that demand in Japan has fallen to a third of what it was initially and analysts are now expecting fewer iPhone sales. There is no supply shortage: The device is readily available in Apple and Softbank stores and other outlets. Major electronics retailer Yodobashi Camera’s megastore in the western city of Osaka, for example, recently had more than 100 of them stacked up in open view.
A spokesman for Softbank, which has 19.5 million wireless subscribers, said the iPhone continues to be popular, but declined to provide details. A spokesman for Apple Japan declined to comment. Sales have been slowed by the iPhone’s relatively high price and the fact that Japan is already home to some of the world’s most advanced cellphones. The iPhone’s limited success so far shows how tough it continues to be for foreign manufacturers to crack the Japanese cellphone market.
More than 10 domestic handset manufacturers compete for a slice of Japan’s cellphone market, one of the world’s largest with annual sales of 50 million phones. Nokia Corp., the industry leader in global shipments, has less than 1% share in Japan. Instead, Sharp Corp. leads the Japanese market, with about 25% of shipments. The global market is more than one billion phones.
Still, expectations had been high that if anyone could break into such an insular market, Apple would with the iPhone 3G because of its strong brand name and popularity of its iPod players and Macintosh computers. The original iPhone wasn’t sold in Japan.
According to market-research firm MM Research Institute, Apple sold about 200,000 phones in Japan in the first two months. Since then, however, demand has been falling steadily, and analysts now widely believe sales are unlikely to reach a total of 500,000 units. That is half the one million units that they previously thought Apple could sell. One big challenge is that Japanese users already have access to some of the most advanced mobile-phone technologies in the world. Models currently sold by Japanese cellphone makers typically contain a high-end color display, digital TV-viewing capability, satellite navigation service, music player and digital camera. Many models also include chips that let owners use their phones as debit cards or train passes. Noriko Tanaka, a 34-year-old Softbank customer in Tokyo, said she likes the iPhone’s touch screen, but would prefer a phone with digital television capability. “The touch screen looks fun, but I’m not sure I could get used to it,” said Ms. Tanaka.
Another challenge for Softbank is that Apple’s marketing for the new iPhone has touted the devices compatibility with 3G wireless networks, which give users faster access to the Internet. While this is a relatively new service in the U.S., 3G access has been a standard feature on Japanese phones for years.
“The iPhone is a difficult phone to use for the Japanese market because there are so many features it doesn’t have,” says Eimei Yokota, an analyst with MM Research. He said one small but must-have feature that is often cited as a deficiency in the iPhone is the lack of “emoji,” clip art that can be inserted in sentences to jazz up emails. Japanese consumers have also shied away from the phone because of its high price. Through a complex discount equation, Softbank makes a 16-gigabyte phone available for about 58,560 yen, or around $540, for current Softbank customers or 34,560 yen, or around $320, for new customers, both prices require a two-year contract. That compares with a U.S. price of $299 with AT&T Inc. under similar conditions.
In addition, Japanese customers pay as much as $60 a month to access the Internet and download software applications, along with the usual calling charges. Softbank has lowered its starting data service price since the iPhone launch, but the potential cost is prohibitive for some people, particularly when many Japanese phones are on sale at a lower price.
One iPhone feature that is unique even to Japanese users is the App Store, Apple’s online clearinghouse for software, such as games and reference guides. The App Store is popular among U.S. users, but hasn’t taken hold as much in Japan, where consumers tend to be more cautious about making purchases online.
Takuro Hiraoka, an analyst for GfK Marketing Services Japan Ltd., says Apple could take more advantage of this feature to boost sales going forward. “Japanese users don’t know what to do with an iPhone,” he said. “Sales could grow if Apple provides specific examples of how it can be used.”
Showing posts with label iPhone News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label iPhone News. Show all posts
Thursday, 25 March 2010
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Google Keeps Supporting The iPhone
In addition to Google Maps, which already comes with the iPhone, you can download Google Earth [iTunes link] from the App Store for free. When I first opened up the app, I immediately drew a comparison with the Earthscape [iTunes link] app which is also free. Both apps use a 3-D rendered landscape. Google Earth for the iPhone includes Wikipedia entries and photos from Panoramio. You can set it to see your longitude and latitude as well as the altitude at which you are virtually viewing the globe.
Unlike the desktop version of Google Earth, the iPhone app has no street overlay. Boo. So, basically it is a big 3-D globe with Wikipedia entries and Panoramio photos. Boo. I'm disappointed to say the least. Especially so since Earthscape has gotten quite good over many updates and has built up a photo community. Right now, you cannot take pictures within the Google Earth application.
Google Earth also has some bugs. Near my house, there is a weird 3-D wall along my street which doesn't exist in real life (see picture, right). Looks like a bad render to me. Unfortunately, it doesn't go away. Boo.
Google Earth does have some interesting features that even Earthscape doesn't have. To see Google Earth in 3-D, you tilt your iPhone. It has a Google Street View effect, although you can only tilt up and down. Also, clicking the compass in the upper right corner makes the top of your screen north.
Hopefully, most of my complaints will be addressed in future updates. In the meantime, go ahead and download BOTH Google Earth and Earthscape and let us know which app you like better.
iPhone tethering coming soon according to AT&T
According to Harry McCracken of Technoligizer, AT&T Mobility CEO Ralph De La Vega reportedly told Michael Arrington that the iPhone will be allowed to work as a modem for your notebook soon via wireless tethering over a Bluetooth connection. Michael Arrington’s MobileCrunch site, one of the sites in the TechCrunch network, repeated the news in a later post so it would seem legitimate.
One of the largest complaints about the iPhone, both since it was first introduced and since the release of the iPhone 3G, has been the lack of any sort of sanctioned tethering solution that would allow users to connect their computers to the iPhone via a wireless Bluetooth connection and use the internet connection from the iPhone to serve as a wireless modem for the laptop. Since the news is coming from an AT&T executive rather than from Apple, this is less a feature of the phone itself than it is a service which AT&T will start allowing and for which AT&T will most likely charge a subscription fee.
Current guesses for the tethering connection are around $50 to $60 a month, which is on par with the $60 cost of a monthly 3G connection via a wireless laptop card, like the AT&T USBConnect Quicksilver. If the prices are that close, although it would mean a second contract with AT&T, you may want to go the wireless laptop card route, as the price will be nearly the same, you’ll have two separate bandwidth caps for both the 3G card and the iPhone rather than sharing the same 5GB per month cap, and the USB connection for the laptop card will take less of your batteries’ charge than the drain that maintaining a Bluetooth connection will cause on both your laptop and your iPhone.
No mention has been made on wether there will be an EDGE only tethering plan at reduced cost for people with first generation iPhones.
One of the largest complaints about the iPhone, both since it was first introduced and since the release of the iPhone 3G, has been the lack of any sort of sanctioned tethering solution that would allow users to connect their computers to the iPhone via a wireless Bluetooth connection and use the internet connection from the iPhone to serve as a wireless modem for the laptop. Since the news is coming from an AT&T executive rather than from Apple, this is less a feature of the phone itself than it is a service which AT&T will start allowing and for which AT&T will most likely charge a subscription fee.
Current guesses for the tethering connection are around $50 to $60 a month, which is on par with the $60 cost of a monthly 3G connection via a wireless laptop card, like the AT&T USBConnect Quicksilver. If the prices are that close, although it would mean a second contract with AT&T, you may want to go the wireless laptop card route, as the price will be nearly the same, you’ll have two separate bandwidth caps for both the 3G card and the iPhone rather than sharing the same 5GB per month cap, and the USB connection for the laptop card will take less of your batteries’ charge than the drain that maintaining a Bluetooth connection will cause on both your laptop and your iPhone.
No mention has been made on wether there will be an EDGE only tethering plan at reduced cost for people with first generation iPhones.
Sunday, 14 March 2010
MobileMe Syncs Contacts, Captures Criminals
Outage prone PIM push service by day, crime busting super sync utility at night? Seems that way. According to TUAW, MobileMe whipped off its mild-mannered glasses and swooped down and caught an iPhone 3G thief!
While at the dry cleaner one day, Rob’s iPhone was stolen. He immediately chalked it up as gone forever, and proceeded to purchase a brand new one that same evening. It was the next day when unfamiliar contacts began to appear on the new phone. The (not-too-bright) thief was unwittingly supplying him with names and phone numbers of his or her closest friends, via the magic of MobileMe synchronization from the stolen phone to the cloud and eventually to his new phone. “It didn’t take long for me to realize that MobileMe was leading me right to the thief!” wrote Rob.
What’s next, saving the world from Steve Ballmer Lex Luthor?
While at the dry cleaner one day, Rob’s iPhone was stolen. He immediately chalked it up as gone forever, and proceeded to purchase a brand new one that same evening. It was the next day when unfamiliar contacts began to appear on the new phone. The (not-too-bright) thief was unwittingly supplying him with names and phone numbers of his or her closest friends, via the magic of MobileMe synchronization from the stolen phone to the cloud and eventually to his new phone. “It didn’t take long for me to realize that MobileMe was leading me right to the thief!” wrote Rob.
What’s next, saving the world from Steve Ballmer Lex Luthor?
Thursday, 11 March 2010
The Palm downs “exaggerated” anti-iPhone claims
Although the investor was roughly accurate with relative market share for iPhones, BlackBerries and smartphones as a whole, Palm further corrects him and says that the Pre won't necessarily be “several times faster” than the iPhone as it's still under development. Touting webOS as superior is also difficult when it's in a beta state, the company notes, and claims that Sprint's 3G network is better than those for AT&T and Verizon are just “generalizations” that are likely to vary by area.
The filing prevents legal ramifications from McNamee's statements but also underscores Palm's awareness of the Pre's role in the market, where it's expected to be one of Apple's most direct competitors and one of Sprint's few true “halo” devices that could lure customers to its network. Where McNamee has been known for making aggressive claims about Palm's competition with the iPhone since the Pre was introduced at CES this January, the company has regularly backed down and is best known for having preemptively claimed there would be no patent disputes with Apple over the use of multi-touch with the Pre's interface.
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
Do you need to know these top iPhone’s secret silicon?
The precise specifications for many iPhone chips are murky. Should Apple be more open about its secret ingredients?
We know the precise dimensions of the outside of the iPhone–but what's inside?
(Credit: Apple)Granted, many people don't care about the silicon inside their iPhone. They just want it to work. That said, I think more than a few people would like to see the specifications for the iPhone's core silicon posted on Apple's Web site.
By comparison, take your typical laptop. Prospective buyers are able to see the exact specifications and make an informed buying decision. Though the iPhone isn't offered in different processor SKUs (models) like a laptop, the iPhone comes close to a PC in its capabilities and demands more disclosure.
Nikkei's TechOn Web site takes a stab at what the iPhone's main chip might be–generically referred to as an application(s) processor: “An LSI (large-scale integrated circuit) printed with Apple Inc.'s logo (”339S0036 ARM K4X1G163PC-DGC3″) was embedded on the center right of the board. It was assumed to be an application processor with an ARM core. Because it included a letter string beginning with ‘K,' it seemed to be manufactured by Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. of Korea.”
Semiconductor Insights is a little more specific, saying it's a “Samsung ARM11-based design.”
Here's my point: Am I getting a smartphone with a Samsung, Texas Instruments, Qualcomm, Freescale, Nvidia or Intel processor? As high-end smartphones proliferate (such as those based on Intel's upcoming “Moorestown” processor), it would be useful to know up front who makes the applications processor and other core silicon and what the rated performance-per-watt of that chip is. And right now, the iPhone is the most prominent high-end smartphone.
Don't think smartphone makers should go down the same path as laptops, which are plastered with Intel, AMD, ATI, Nvidia, and Microsoft stickers? Maybe not. But more about what makes the device tick could only be helpful.
Would anybody else like to know?
We know the precise dimensions of the outside of the iPhone–but what's inside?
(Credit: Apple)Granted, many people don't care about the silicon inside their iPhone. They just want it to work. That said, I think more than a few people would like to see the specifications for the iPhone's core silicon posted on Apple's Web site.
By comparison, take your typical laptop. Prospective buyers are able to see the exact specifications and make an informed buying decision. Though the iPhone isn't offered in different processor SKUs (models) like a laptop, the iPhone comes close to a PC in its capabilities and demands more disclosure.
Nikkei's TechOn Web site takes a stab at what the iPhone's main chip might be–generically referred to as an application(s) processor: “An LSI (large-scale integrated circuit) printed with Apple Inc.'s logo (”339S0036 ARM K4X1G163PC-DGC3″) was embedded on the center right of the board. It was assumed to be an application processor with an ARM core. Because it included a letter string beginning with ‘K,' it seemed to be manufactured by Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. of Korea.”
Semiconductor Insights is a little more specific, saying it's a “Samsung ARM11-based design.”
Here's my point: Am I getting a smartphone with a Samsung, Texas Instruments, Qualcomm, Freescale, Nvidia or Intel processor? As high-end smartphones proliferate (such as those based on Intel's upcoming “Moorestown” processor), it would be useful to know up front who makes the applications processor and other core silicon and what the rated performance-per-watt of that chip is. And right now, the iPhone is the most prominent high-end smartphone.
Don't think smartphone makers should go down the same path as laptops, which are plastered with Intel, AMD, ATI, Nvidia, and Microsoft stickers? Maybe not. But more about what makes the device tick could only be helpful.
Would anybody else like to know?
iPhone 3G S arrives on June 19 for 16GB and 32GB
Those in the US, Canada, France, Italy, UK, and Spain will be able to get their hands on the new iPhone on the 19th. The iPhone 3G S will gradually be introduced worldwide as new countries are added every few weeks. Keep in mind that those prices are with AT&T contracts; “naked” iPhones will run $499, $599, and $699 for the 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB models respectively.
The software
He also gave an impressive demo of a “Find My Phone” feature. This feature allows a user to log in to MobileMe to locate a lost iPhone using geolocation. Further, said Forstall, “If you lose your phone, you can send it a message from online or your home phone—it'll play a sound whether or not you left it in silent mode.” The sound will allow you to find it in your house, or if you left it at a restaurant, for instance, help a waiter find it. And, if the phone is truly lost, you can send the phone a wipe command remotely using MobileMe—keeping your personal data safe from thieves.
Forstall also discussed iPhone OS 3.0's support for MMS messages to send multimedia messages as well as tethering an iPhone to a laptop to use it as a 3G modem. While he noted that 29 of the carrier partners will support MMS messaging at launch, the audience was noticeably upset about AT&T delaying support until later this summer. The audience loudly booed, however, when it was announced that AT&T was not one of the “lots” of carriers supporting tethering.
Forstall then demoed an improved version of Mobile Safari. The version included in iPhone OS 3.0 will execute JavaScript three times as fast as the current version. It will have HTML 5 support, including offline storage and support for streaming audio and video . HTML 5 audio and video support will also include automatic selection of the appropriate bitrate to use for streaming based on network speeds. Autofill can optionally remember usernames and passwords for logging in to your oft-used websites.
iPhone OS 3.0 will be available to all previous iPhone and iPod touch users worldwide beginning Wednesday, June 17. Developers attending WWDC are being treated to a 10-day head start on the rest of us and being given a GM version of iPhone OS 3.0 today.
The hardware
For those that have been waiting on edge for new iPhone hardware, the keynote did not disappoint. Phil Schiller came on stage to announce the iPhone 3G S—with the “S” standing for “speed.” It will have the same physical form factor as the current iPhone 3G, so all the rumors of black bezels and rubber backing weren't accurate. But most of the rumors of hardware improvements were.
The improved processor (and possible RAM) will speed up most applications as much as two to three times, and will also introduce support for OpenGL ES 2.0, bringing significant improvement to 3D graphics. It will support HSPA data speeds of 7.2Mbps where available. Additionally, it will support a number of new features like built-in hardware encryption for data security, a digital compass, and Nike+ for logging running workouts. Accessibility has been improved with VoiceOver—which can read aloud text on screen—and high contrast screen settings.
Apple has also added a much-requested feature: voice control. Voice control can be used to dial contacts by simply saying “dial” and then a contact's name. While that feature has been available on a number of other phones for some time, it's still a welcome improvement. The control feature also works with the iPod app to control playback. It can even activate the iPod's Genius feature when a users simply says “play more songs like this.”
Perhaps the most universally appreciated update comes in the form of vastly improved camera hardware. The new camera has three megapixels for an improvement in detail and color accuracy, as well as an autofocus lens for much-improved sharpness. The Camera.app software also has a number of improvements, including improved auto exposure and white balance, improved low-light sensitivity, and a “tap to focus” feature, which allows the user to simply tap on an object on the screen to change the camera's focus point. The autofocus can switch into an auto “macro” mode, allowing the camera to focus as close as 10 cm.
Furthermore, the camera supports video recording, as previously rumored. The iPhone 3G S is capable of recording 640×480 resolution at 30 fps with audio. The Camera app will allow basic editing along with recording, and it will store all the videos along with the stills in your library.
Sunday, 7 March 2010
Unlimited Free Iphone Downloads
The launch of the Apple iPhone was an amazing eruption of hype and publicity that drew customers to it like moths to a flame. Most customers who bought the iPhone are now in search of the best sites for unlimited free iPhone movies downloads, unlimited free iPhone game downloads, unlimited free iPhone music downloads, unlimited free iPhone software downloads and more. This is primarily to keep their iPhones stuffed full with their favorite movies, TV shows, games, music, software and more.
The iPhone has become such a trend that everyone wants to buy it and utilize it's fantastic features like being able to download iPhone movies, iPhone games, iPhone software and iPhone music. In this article, will discuss some of the best places to get free iPhone downloads.
Before choosing an iPhone downloads site the most important thing to consider is the type of service you want. The two most popular types of iPhone downloads sites are pay per download sites and unlimited free iPhone downloads membership sites.
If you choose a site with pay per download fees, this means you will be charged about $0.90 for each and every one of your movie, music and game downloads. This type of iPhone downloads site can become very costly if you plan on downloading a lot of movies, music and games.
Your other option would be to join an unlimited free iPhone downloads membership site. Once you pay a one time lifetime membership fee of about $30-$35, all the downloads would be free of cost for you forever, which would include unlimited free iPhone movie downloads, unlimited free iPhone game downloads, unlimited free iPhone music downloads, unlimited free iPhone software downloads and much more. So, instead of paying for each and every one of your downloads for your iPhone, all you need to do is pay a one time lifetime membership fee. Most of the good free iPhone download sites also offer a one or two year option. Without question, the unlimited free iPhone downloads membership site seems the best deal by far.
At this moment, the iPhone seems to be the hottest gadget in the world, and as an Internet device, it has soared miles ahead of its competition. So, if movies are your thing, you can now enjoy watching all your favorites by using your iPhone. It goes without question that iPhones are expensive, yet, the amazing features that comes as part of the entire iPhone package make it well worth the extra expense. If you are wise enough to take advantage of the iPhones fantastic features, you’ll join an unlimited free iPhone downloads membership site too.
While having the ability to watch movies or play games on your iPhone is great, its even better if your iPhone's movie downloads and iPhone game downloads are free. But please don’t trust everything on blind faith. That can get you into deep trouble. Remember to always be careful about your iPhone. There are some iPhone download sites out there that are pure scams. If you want to protect your iPhone from malicious viruses and spy ware then check out the iPhone review sites to find out the best sites to get your unlimited free iPhone downloads from.
The iPhone has become such a trend that everyone wants to buy it and utilize it's fantastic features like being able to download iPhone movies, iPhone games, iPhone software and iPhone music. In this article, will discuss some of the best places to get free iPhone downloads.
Before choosing an iPhone downloads site the most important thing to consider is the type of service you want. The two most popular types of iPhone downloads sites are pay per download sites and unlimited free iPhone downloads membership sites.
If you choose a site with pay per download fees, this means you will be charged about $0.90 for each and every one of your movie, music and game downloads. This type of iPhone downloads site can become very costly if you plan on downloading a lot of movies, music and games.
Your other option would be to join an unlimited free iPhone downloads membership site. Once you pay a one time lifetime membership fee of about $30-$35, all the downloads would be free of cost for you forever, which would include unlimited free iPhone movie downloads, unlimited free iPhone game downloads, unlimited free iPhone music downloads, unlimited free iPhone software downloads and much more. So, instead of paying for each and every one of your downloads for your iPhone, all you need to do is pay a one time lifetime membership fee. Most of the good free iPhone download sites also offer a one or two year option. Without question, the unlimited free iPhone downloads membership site seems the best deal by far.
At this moment, the iPhone seems to be the hottest gadget in the world, and as an Internet device, it has soared miles ahead of its competition. So, if movies are your thing, you can now enjoy watching all your favorites by using your iPhone. It goes without question that iPhones are expensive, yet, the amazing features that comes as part of the entire iPhone package make it well worth the extra expense. If you are wise enough to take advantage of the iPhones fantastic features, you’ll join an unlimited free iPhone downloads membership site too.
While having the ability to watch movies or play games on your iPhone is great, its even better if your iPhone's movie downloads and iPhone game downloads are free. But please don’t trust everything on blind faith. That can get you into deep trouble. Remember to always be careful about your iPhone. There are some iPhone download sites out there that are pure scams. If you want to protect your iPhone from malicious viruses and spy ware then check out the iPhone review sites to find out the best sites to get your unlimited free iPhone downloads from.
Exploring Predam and Prodam Iphones
Exploring Predam And Prodam iPhones
The fervor had built to a feverish pitch. Weeks before Apple would unleash their iPhone onto the expectant marketplace, rumors had begun to circulate about the device's functionality. Online forums became both meeting place and combat zone as fans participated in heated debates about the new gadget. Blogs exploded with new readers who searched desperately for any credible information they could find about the coming iPhone. Soon, popular media began to chase the story of the impending launch. When the day finally arrived, millions of people waited for the chance to buy one. They would be dazzled and disappointed.
iPhone Owners Are Dazzled And Disappointed
When people first purchased their iPhones, they were in awe. It seemed to have few limitations. Never before had anyone seen such a compact device capable of doing so much with such an intuitive interface. The iPhone's popularity surged immediately and those who had hesitated on launch day hurried to the stores to buy one. But, behind the initial dazzle lurked a major problem.
Due to an alliance between Apple and AT&T, the iPhone would only work on AT&T's network. That is, there was an exclusivity clause (supported by the iPhone's technical architecture) that precluded any other wireless carrier from providing service to iPhone users. In order to activate the iPhone's phone, voice, web and email functionality, owners had to sign a 2-year contract with AT&T. This stunned new iPhone owners and ultimately set the stage for the emergence of a predam iPhone.
The Predam iPhone Emerges
For those people who already used AT&T for their existing cell phones, activating their iPhones on AT&T's network wasn't an issue. However, most iPhone owners used other carriers for their cellular service. Activating their iPhones would require another service contract with another hefty monthly fee. What was designed to be a major coup for both Apple and AT&T turned into a public relations fiasco. A predam iPhone (also known as a prodam iPhone) was soon developed to circumvent the limitation.
Benefits Of A Predam iPhone
A prodam iPhone (or unlocked iPhone) has one primary purpose: to thwart the technical architecture that prevents owners from using their iPhones with other GSM services. Doing so has several benefits. First, if an iPhone owner has an existing cellular plan with another carrier, it's far more convenient to use his iPhone with that plan. Second, new AT&T customers are required to sign a 2-year contract to activate their iPhones. This is a longer commitment than many are willing to make. Third, a predam iPhone allows someone traveling overseas to use a prepaid SIM card (arguably more convenient that using AT&T's service overseas). Fourth, by unlocking it, you can sell your prodam iPhone to someone else more easily.
Making Life Easy With A Prodam iPhone
Unless you're already using AT&T's network for your cell phone or iPhone and you're happy with it, there are few reasons to leave your iPhone locked. While AT&T's service is likely adequate, the coverage, 2-year contract and additional monthly fee for using your iPhone make it significantly less-appealing. Fortunately, you have options. Creating a predam iPhone only requires a few minutes and free software. And if you'd rather have someone else unlock the iPhone, you can find several prodam iPhones for sale on eBay. They're already unlocked and can be used on any compatible GSM service. A locked iPhone can be severely limiting. Explore how a prodam iPhone can make your life easier (and less expensive).
The fervor had built to a feverish pitch. Weeks before Apple would unleash their iPhone onto the expectant marketplace, rumors had begun to circulate about the device's functionality. Online forums became both meeting place and combat zone as fans participated in heated debates about the new gadget. Blogs exploded with new readers who searched desperately for any credible information they could find about the coming iPhone. Soon, popular media began to chase the story of the impending launch. When the day finally arrived, millions of people waited for the chance to buy one. They would be dazzled and disappointed.
iPhone Owners Are Dazzled And Disappointed
When people first purchased their iPhones, they were in awe. It seemed to have few limitations. Never before had anyone seen such a compact device capable of doing so much with such an intuitive interface. The iPhone's popularity surged immediately and those who had hesitated on launch day hurried to the stores to buy one. But, behind the initial dazzle lurked a major problem.
Due to an alliance between Apple and AT&T, the iPhone would only work on AT&T's network. That is, there was an exclusivity clause (supported by the iPhone's technical architecture) that precluded any other wireless carrier from providing service to iPhone users. In order to activate the iPhone's phone, voice, web and email functionality, owners had to sign a 2-year contract with AT&T. This stunned new iPhone owners and ultimately set the stage for the emergence of a predam iPhone.
The Predam iPhone Emerges
For those people who already used AT&T for their existing cell phones, activating their iPhones on AT&T's network wasn't an issue. However, most iPhone owners used other carriers for their cellular service. Activating their iPhones would require another service contract with another hefty monthly fee. What was designed to be a major coup for both Apple and AT&T turned into a public relations fiasco. A predam iPhone (also known as a prodam iPhone) was soon developed to circumvent the limitation.
Benefits Of A Predam iPhone
A prodam iPhone (or unlocked iPhone) has one primary purpose: to thwart the technical architecture that prevents owners from using their iPhones with other GSM services. Doing so has several benefits. First, if an iPhone owner has an existing cellular plan with another carrier, it's far more convenient to use his iPhone with that plan. Second, new AT&T customers are required to sign a 2-year contract to activate their iPhones. This is a longer commitment than many are willing to make. Third, a predam iPhone allows someone traveling overseas to use a prepaid SIM card (arguably more convenient that using AT&T's service overseas). Fourth, by unlocking it, you can sell your prodam iPhone to someone else more easily.
Making Life Easy With A Prodam iPhone
Unless you're already using AT&T's network for your cell phone or iPhone and you're happy with it, there are few reasons to leave your iPhone locked. While AT&T's service is likely adequate, the coverage, 2-year contract and additional monthly fee for using your iPhone make it significantly less-appealing. Fortunately, you have options. Creating a predam iPhone only requires a few minutes and free software. And if you'd rather have someone else unlock the iPhone, you can find several prodam iPhones for sale on eBay. They're already unlocked and can be used on any compatible GSM service. A locked iPhone can be severely limiting. Explore how a prodam iPhone can make your life easier (and less expensive).
Three Different Techniques to Unlock an Iphone
There seems to be a lot of confusion around the iPhone 3G, and how to unlock it. There are tons of websites claiming/misleading that they can unlock the iPhone 3G with a software solution - they cant! There is no software unlock available yet for the iPhone 3G, anywhere!
No matter what your friend says, or what that website claims to do - it is impossible to Unlock an iPhone 3G with software. There is however a hardware SIM unlock for the iPhone 3G - it's just as easy to install, doesn't require any modding of your iPhone or SIM card and it works with all firmware versions. - I will talk more about this method later on, need to explain some more about the software unlock while we're still on that topic.
You can currently "Jailbreak" your iPhone 3G with the software, the same software you would use to unlock your 1st generation iPhone will be able to Jailbreak your iPhone 3G. Jailbreaking your iPhone simply allows you to install your own 3rd party applications onto the iPhone. This process is reversible, so don't worry if you mess anything up. Here are a couple of guides, the first on How to Jailbreak iPhone 3G and the second, Revirginize iPhone 3G (if you need to restore your iPhone 3G to factory settings).
In order to unlock any iPhone with software, it must first be Jailbroken - to allow you to install and modify the code on your iPhone 3G to unlock it. Please don't be tricked into thinking there is a software unlock for the iPhone 3G, because there isn't- the second the software unlock becomes available for the iPhone 3G you will be able to see it, and download it at Unlock iPhone 3G's iPhone 3G Software Unlock Status page. If you see any website offering the software unlock for the iPhone 3G before it's announced at Unlock iPhone 3G - then it's 99% a scam, walk away.
Now... back to the hardware SIM unlock for the iPhone 3G. Basically this little device slots in your iPhone (in the same way your current SIM card does), and allows you to use your iPhone 3G on any network. It's easy and it works! BUT there are loads of different types of hardware SIM now floating around on the internet, and most of them - like with the software unlocking companies *cough* site site site *cough* - are really rubbish products. They lack quality (reception, signal, phone call clarity, 3G issues) and some even require your cut your SIM card.
At iUnlock iPhone 3G, we have tried and tested over 20 variations of iPhone 3G SIM Unlocks, in order to provide you with the best solution. Our Unlock for iPhone 3G requires no cutting of your SIM, and there is no signal / reception problems at all! You will not even notice a difference. Our iPhone 3G Unlock ships worldwide, and you can get it for just £34.99 (there's no need to update your hardware SIM, once you have it - it will keep your iPhone unlocked forever), this price includes access to The iArea, where you have access to thousands of iPhone Wallpapers, iPhone Themes, iPhone Downloads, iPhone Software and Premium 24 iPhone Support via our Ticket Support System.
I hope this clears up the iPhone 3G Unlocking Status for everybody.
iPhone 3G Software Unlock - Not Available
iPhone 3G SIM Unlock - Available Now!
No matter what your friend says, or what that website claims to do - it is impossible to Unlock an iPhone 3G with software. There is however a hardware SIM unlock for the iPhone 3G - it's just as easy to install, doesn't require any modding of your iPhone or SIM card and it works with all firmware versions. - I will talk more about this method later on, need to explain some more about the software unlock while we're still on that topic.
You can currently "Jailbreak" your iPhone 3G with the software, the same software you would use to unlock your 1st generation iPhone will be able to Jailbreak your iPhone 3G. Jailbreaking your iPhone simply allows you to install your own 3rd party applications onto the iPhone. This process is reversible, so don't worry if you mess anything up. Here are a couple of guides, the first on How to Jailbreak iPhone 3G and the second, Revirginize iPhone 3G (if you need to restore your iPhone 3G to factory settings).
In order to unlock any iPhone with software, it must first be Jailbroken - to allow you to install and modify the code on your iPhone 3G to unlock it. Please don't be tricked into thinking there is a software unlock for the iPhone 3G, because there isn't- the second the software unlock becomes available for the iPhone 3G you will be able to see it, and download it at Unlock iPhone 3G's iPhone 3G Software Unlock Status page. If you see any website offering the software unlock for the iPhone 3G before it's announced at Unlock iPhone 3G - then it's 99% a scam, walk away.
Now... back to the hardware SIM unlock for the iPhone 3G. Basically this little device slots in your iPhone (in the same way your current SIM card does), and allows you to use your iPhone 3G on any network. It's easy and it works! BUT there are loads of different types of hardware SIM now floating around on the internet, and most of them - like with the software unlocking companies *cough* site site site *cough* - are really rubbish products. They lack quality (reception, signal, phone call clarity, 3G issues) and some even require your cut your SIM card.
At iUnlock iPhone 3G, we have tried and tested over 20 variations of iPhone 3G SIM Unlocks, in order to provide you with the best solution. Our Unlock for iPhone 3G requires no cutting of your SIM, and there is no signal / reception problems at all! You will not even notice a difference. Our iPhone 3G Unlock ships worldwide, and you can get it for just £34.99 (there's no need to update your hardware SIM, once you have it - it will keep your iPhone unlocked forever), this price includes access to The iArea, where you have access to thousands of iPhone Wallpapers, iPhone Themes, iPhone Downloads, iPhone Software and Premium 24 iPhone Support via our Ticket Support System.
I hope this clears up the iPhone 3G Unlocking Status for everybody.
iPhone 3G Software Unlock - Not Available
iPhone 3G SIM Unlock - Available Now!
Greatest Rm Rmvb To Iphone Converter
Today RM RMVB to iPhone Converter is in the limelight. We created the "World's Most Popular Now!" award to help you find the best programs available for whatever you want to do, whether converting video or burning your favorite movies onto a DVD. Each program is rated on a scale of 1 to 5 in five different categories: UI skin, speed, ease of use, user rating and popularity. The program that comes out on top gets our award.
Today's winners in RM RMVB to iPhone Converter are listed below. These ten programs are indisputably the best ones around. Any and all of them would be worth a download.
1. Cucusoft DVD + Video to iPhone Converter Suite
Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter Suite is an all-in-one iPhone video Conversion software. This iPhone includes "Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter" and "Cucusoft DVD to iPhone Converter".
2. Accelerate DVD + Video to iPhone Converter
It converts almost all formats of video files that are already on your computer (AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB etc.) and DVD movies into a format that's compatible with iPhone video, that is, iPhone mp4 format.
3. Lenogo DVD + Video to iPhone Converter
It converts almost all formats of video files that are already on your computer (AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB etc.) and DVD movies into a format that's compatible with iPhone video, that is, iPhone mp4 format.
4. Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter
Cucusoft iPhone Movie/Video Converter is the easiest to use video converter software available. It can convert almost any video format to play on Microsoft iPhone Video Player, e.g. DivX, XviD, MOV, RM, rmvb, MPEG, WMV, AVI to iPhone Movie / iPhone Video format
5. Lenogo Video to iPhone Converter
Lenogo Video to iPhone Converter is a professional video to iPhone converter software. It can convert AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB to iPhone
6. Wondershare iPhone Converter Suite
Wondershare iPhone Video Suite is an extremely easy to use DVD/Video to iphone converter. The software makes the process of converting DVD Movie, MTV, Music Video and TV Show to Apple iPhone MP4 or H.264 Video easily.
7. Alive iPhone Video Converter
Alive iPhone Video Converter is a professional video converter to convert almost all popular video/movie formats to iPhone MP4 format.
8. Accelerate Video to iPhone Converter
Its conversion speed is 3 times of the playback speed, even faster than real-time.AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB to iPhone Converter.
9. Digiters DVD + Video to iPhone Converter
Digiters DVD to iPhone Video Converter Suite is a One-Click, All-In-One solution to convert DVD to iPhone, Tivo to iPhone, DivX movie to iPhone, Xvid movie to iPhone, MPEG video to iPhone, WMV to iPhone, AVI to iPhone, RealMedia to iPhone, etc.
10. PQ DVD to iPhone Video Suite
PQ DVD to iPhone Video Suite (PQ DVD to iPhone + iPhone Video Converter) is a One-Click, All-In-One solution to convert DVD, Tivo, DivX, MPEG, WMV, AVI, RealMedia and many more to iPhone and iPod Video.
Today's winners in RM RMVB to iPhone Converter are listed below. These ten programs are indisputably the best ones around. Any and all of them would be worth a download.
1. Cucusoft DVD + Video to iPhone Converter Suite
Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter Suite is an all-in-one iPhone video Conversion software. This iPhone includes "Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter" and "Cucusoft DVD to iPhone Converter".
2. Accelerate DVD + Video to iPhone Converter
It converts almost all formats of video files that are already on your computer (AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB etc.) and DVD movies into a format that's compatible with iPhone video, that is, iPhone mp4 format.
3. Lenogo DVD + Video to iPhone Converter
It converts almost all formats of video files that are already on your computer (AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB etc.) and DVD movies into a format that's compatible with iPhone video, that is, iPhone mp4 format.
4. Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter
Cucusoft iPhone Movie/Video Converter is the easiest to use video converter software available. It can convert almost any video format to play on Microsoft iPhone Video Player, e.g. DivX, XviD, MOV, RM, rmvb, MPEG, WMV, AVI to iPhone Movie / iPhone Video format
5. Lenogo Video to iPhone Converter
Lenogo Video to iPhone Converter is a professional video to iPhone converter software. It can convert AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB to iPhone
6. Wondershare iPhone Converter Suite
Wondershare iPhone Video Suite is an extremely easy to use DVD/Video to iphone converter. The software makes the process of converting DVD Movie, MTV, Music Video and TV Show to Apple iPhone MP4 or H.264 Video easily.
7. Alive iPhone Video Converter
Alive iPhone Video Converter is a professional video converter to convert almost all popular video/movie formats to iPhone MP4 format.
8. Accelerate Video to iPhone Converter
Its conversion speed is 3 times of the playback speed, even faster than real-time.AVI, MPG, MPEG, ASF, WMV, MOV, 3GP, AMR, FLV, FLIC, SWF, RM, RMVB to iPhone Converter.
9. Digiters DVD + Video to iPhone Converter
Digiters DVD to iPhone Video Converter Suite is a One-Click, All-In-One solution to convert DVD to iPhone, Tivo to iPhone, DivX movie to iPhone, Xvid movie to iPhone, MPEG video to iPhone, WMV to iPhone, AVI to iPhone, RealMedia to iPhone, etc.
10. PQ DVD to iPhone Video Suite
PQ DVD to iPhone Video Suite (PQ DVD to iPhone + iPhone Video Converter) is a One-Click, All-In-One solution to convert DVD, Tivo, DivX, MPEG, WMV, AVI, RealMedia and many more to iPhone and iPod Video.
Thursday, 25 February 2010
Apple Patent Provides Interesting Insight On How Users Will Be Able To Control iPhone With Finger Swipes Over Camera
If you thought the purpose of iPhone’s camera was to take photos then think again.
Folks at Patently Apple have stumbled upon an interesting Apple patent that involves using the iPhone camera to detect finger swipes across the camera lens coupled with accelerometer to detect tapping input to supplement the finger swipes.
The patent application describes how the camera lens and accelerometer will be used to control iPhone:
In one embodiment, to access his voice mailbox, a user may tap the phone to cause playback of a message to pause, tap the phone again to resume playback, swipe his finger over the camera lens in one direction to fast forward playback, and swipe his finger over the camera lens in another direction to rewind playback. These actions allow the user to control functions of voicemail review without removing the device from over his ear.
In another embodiment, functions for controlling call features utilize similar user actions or motions. Features such as merging multiple calls, putting a call on hold, and switching between or among multiple simultaneous calls may be controlled by single or double (or any number of) taps of the device, as detected by an accelerometer of the device. These taps may be preprogrammed by a manufacturer, or selected and programmed by a user.
I really like the concept of using iPhone’s camera and accelerometer to control functions of voicemail.
However, it is important to note here that Apple like so many other companies, patents ideas and so these features might never see the light of day.
But I hope this one makes it to the feature list in the next generation iPhone OS.
Folks at Patently Apple have stumbled upon an interesting Apple patent that involves using the iPhone camera to detect finger swipes across the camera lens coupled with accelerometer to detect tapping input to supplement the finger swipes.
The patent application describes how the camera lens and accelerometer will be used to control iPhone:
In one embodiment, to access his voice mailbox, a user may tap the phone to cause playback of a message to pause, tap the phone again to resume playback, swipe his finger over the camera lens in one direction to fast forward playback, and swipe his finger over the camera lens in another direction to rewind playback. These actions allow the user to control functions of voicemail review without removing the device from over his ear.
In another embodiment, functions for controlling call features utilize similar user actions or motions. Features such as merging multiple calls, putting a call on hold, and switching between or among multiple simultaneous calls may be controlled by single or double (or any number of) taps of the device, as detected by an accelerometer of the device. These taps may be preprogrammed by a manufacturer, or selected and programmed by a user.
I really like the concept of using iPhone’s camera and accelerometer to control functions of voicemail.
However, it is important to note here that Apple like so many other companies, patents ideas and so these features might never see the light of day.
But I hope this one makes it to the feature list in the next generation iPhone OS.
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