Report Hints At Acer Iconia W3 - An Eight-Inch Windows 8 Tablet

Acer Iconia W3

(Image Credit: http://www.slashgear.com)

Apparently Acer is planning to release an eight-inch tablet powered by the Windows 8 OS, the upcoming Acer Iconia W3 tablet, according to a website based in France.

The Microsoft Store currently offers ten-inch models of its Windows 8-powered tablets, but this may change soon. Images of the upcoming Acer Iconia W3 tablet were posted recently on the website before the manufacturer requested the images to be removed.

The tablet may be the first Windows 8-powered tablet from Acer and will allow Microsoft to enter a new segment in the tablet market.

The tablet will reportedly use the full-blown version of the Windows 8 OS. This will give users all of the features offered by the latest version of the operating system from Microsoft, which will also give it an advantage over the Google Nexus 7 and the iPad Mini of Apple.

The tablet will also feature a 1280 by 800 IPS display screen, dual-core Atom Clover Trail processor from Intel, 2GB RAM, and camera in front and the back. The specifications are consistent with the statements made by Microsoft recently in connection to smaller tablet devices that will be offered in the market before the end of the year.

With the current reduction in the price of the full-size Windows 8 tablet, the Acer Iconia W3 tablet will likely have a price tag comparable to tablets of the same size. It may even be possible for the tablet to be much cheaper.

Reports have also hinted at the possibility that licensing fee discounts are being offered by Microsoft for device manufacturers who will manufacturer smaller tablets. This means an eight-inch Windows tablet may be cheaper compared to low-end models of the Windows 8 tablets that are currently being offered in the market.

For the moment, no statements were issued by Acer in connection to the reports about the Acer Iconia W3 tablet.

Firefox OS-powered Smartphones, Anyone?

Firefox OS

(Image Credit: http://www.cnet.com)

Move over Android and iOS, the Firefox OS-powered Keon and Peak are in town. The two budget models designed to allow developers to create Web applications for the open-source operating system of Mozilla are currently being offered by Geeksphone.

Developers interested in creating applications, web-based or otherwise, can use the two smartphones to test their creations. The Keon has a price tag of around $143 while the Peak can be acquired at around $234.

The price for the smartphones is way cheaper compared to unlocked models of high-end smartphones in the market. The low price for these Firefox OS-powered smartphones is made possible due to the browser-based strategy of the company. The low price point of the smartphones allows the company to offer them to developing markets like Brazil.

By 2014, a number of mainstream smartphones using the Firefox OS of Mozilla may be offered by Alcatel, Huawei, LG Electronics, Sony, and ZTE.

The Keon features a 3.5-inch multi-touchscreen, 1GHz Cortex A5 processor from Qualcomm,512MB RAM, 4GB internal storage, 3MP camera, proximity sensor, GPS receiver, and an accelerometer. On the other hand, the Peak will come with a 4.3-inch multi-touch qHD IPS display screen, dual-core 1.2GHz 8225 processor from Qualcomm, 512MB RAM, 4GB internal storage, 8MP camera at the back, 2MP camera in front, proximity sensor, GPS receiver, and an accelerometer.

The introduction of the Keon and the Peak is a major step for Mozilla since the devices provide them with a foothold in the competitive mobile device market. The non-profit organization currently has a Firefox for the Android OS although it is not quite popular. It also faces a number of obstacles in bringing the browser into Windows and iOS-powered devices.

In order for the organization to make its OS popular among consumers, it is essential to have some major mobile service providers to give it a boost.

Although the consumer-friendly versions of the Firefox OS-powered smartphones will not be available for some time, the developer devices will allow programmers to create applications for the OS prior to its introduction into the market. Emulators can be used for smartphones but these are not devices using the actual OS.

The Firefox OS appears to have an advantage over other mobile OS since it will have some applications ready before the actual devices will be released into the market. In comparison, the iOS and Android devices were released even before applications were designed for them.

However, a number of developers were eager in developing applications for the iOS and the Android. Mozilla aims to simulate this enthusiasm through the release of the Keon and the Peak through Geeksphone. The first Firefox OS-powered devices are expected to be released into the US market by 2014.

Share The Genius Event To Highlight The LG Optimus G Pro

LG Optimus G Pro

(Image Credit: http://www.cnet.com)

The LG Optimus G Pro will be the main highlight of the upcoming press conference of LG that will be held in New York. This was revealed recently through a second invitation from the smartphone manufacturer.

The event is scheduled to be held in New York City on May 1 as LG has started to reveal additional details of the “Share the Genius” event. The Metropolitan Pavilion will be the venue for the event and will feature the performance of the band Atlas Genius.

The event will reportedly highlight the next smartphone offering of LG, the LG Optimus G Pro.

The smartphone was initially unveiled by LG at the MWC 2013 last February. The device will feature a full HD IPS display screen measuring 5.5 inches, which makes it another entry into the phablet category. It will reportedly compete against the Galaxy Note 2 of Samsung.

The upcoming smartphone will also come with a quad-core 1.7Ghz Snapdragon 600 processor, 13MP camera and the SmartVideo eye recognition system.

The LG Optimus G Pro is currently available in Asia and will reportedly be offered as part of the product lineup of AT&T although additional details will be available during the upcoming event of the manufacturer.

Unlocked HTC One Available Through The Manufacturer

HTC One

(Image Credit: http://www.ubergizmo.com)

An unlocked HTC One is now available for orders directly through the smartphone manufacturer. The unlocked version will come with the same features as the smartphone being offered by mobile service providers.

However, the unlocked version of the latest flagship smartphone of HTC will have a higher price tag compared to the ones offered by the mobile service providers since it does not include the typical two-year mobile service contract.

The unlocked HTC One will have a price tag of around $574. The contract-free, unlocked version of the smartphone will have a 32GB storage capacity and will come with the same features that are typically found on the smartphone offered by mobile service providers.

The unlocked version of the smartphone follows the launch of the Developers Edition of theHTC One. The Developers Edition has a price tag of $649 but it features a storage capacity of 64GB. It also comes with an unlocked bootloader to allow developers to root the smartphone and make modifications using a custom ROM.

Consumers who prefer to pay less for the smartphone and are contented with the two-year mobile service contract can acquire the smartphone through T-Mobile, Sprint, and AT&T. The flagship smartphone of HTC is also set to be included in the device lineup of Verizon in the near future.

However, for consumers who do not want to be tied up to a contract can also purchase the unlocked HTC One smartphone through the manufacturer.

Reports Point To Metal For Next Samsung Galaxy Smartphone

Samsung Galaxy S4

(Image Credit: http://www.samsung.com)

Metal may be the way to go for the next Samsung Galaxy smartphone if latest reports will be proven to be accurate.

Reports have hinted at the possibility that the South Korean company is troubled that the build quality of the HTC One and the Apple iPhone has made its flagship smartphone appear to be cheap. Although the millions of Galaxy smartphone owners may disagree with this assessment, there are a number of consumers that see plastic as something that is passé.

Although most of these consumers may not be able to afford a Galaxy smartphone with their allowance, a blog has indicated that there are reports hinting at the possibility that Samsung is thinking of using a different material for the next Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

The class evoked by the metal iPhone and the HTC One may have instilled the idea that metal is the better material to be used for a smartphone. The report also fueled rumors that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Note 3 may be made of metal.

In addition, reports have indicated that a metal prototype for the Samsung Galaxy S4 was developed, and not a few were excited at the possibility of releasing such a device into the market. However, the release of the plastic model of the smartphone was influenced by the issues associated with the mass production of metal smartphones.

However, with the success of the S series along with the Galaxy Note, the use of plastic may give Samsung its own niche in the rather competitive mobile device market.

On the other hand, with reports that Apple is set to release a cheaper iPhone made of plastic, it may also give additional motivation for the South Korean company to use metal for the next Samsung Galaxy smartphone. The material may be used to justify any increase in the price of the smartphone.

In the end, the design of the device will likely dictate whether or not metal will be used on the next Samsung Galaxy smartphone since the current version of the devices are doing quite well despite using a material that some may consider to be cheap.

Multi-Directional Treadmill Matches Well With First-Person-Shooter

Multi-Directional Treadmill

(Image Credit: http://www.pcmag.com)

Combining a multi-directional treadmill with a first-person-shooter is something that will likely excite virtual reality enthusiasts who want to bring their game to another level. Omni is one such product that allows gamers to interact with the game in a wholly different level, while having a good exercise at the same time.

A video was released recently by the producers of the product showing the Omni treadmill being combined with the Oculus Rift headset. The treadmill looks like an open booth where the users will be able to move towards any direction they want.

The video shows the player moving naturally using the multi-directional treadmill within the game. The head movements and other physical movements of the player simulate the movement of the character in the game. The game used on the video is Team Fortress 2.

According to Jan Geotgeluk, the CEO of Virtux, the company aims to provide household consumers will a multi-directional treadmill that has a reasonable price. The company was able to produce the first such treadmill that is small enough to be used in the living room and is priced reasonably. The product also allows users to walk naturally in any virtual environment.

For the moment, it remains uncertain when the product will become available in the market. However the company intends to launch its Kickstarter campaign to create awareness for the product. It is also aiming to create more Kinect-friendly versions of the product.

The multi-directional treadmill from Virtux is expected to have a price tag of around $1,000, which is reasonable enough for a number of virtual reality products that may come out in the market.

New Nokia Flagship Smartphone Coming To US Market

Nokia

(Image Credit: http://www.slashgear.com)

Even as Nokia continues to struggle in the North American market, the Finnish company revealed that it will be offering a new Nokia flagship smartphone through a major US-based mobile service provider.

In a conference call held recently, CEO Stephen Elop revealed that a number of new product launches will mark the current quarter of the year. He also revealed that the company will be releasing a new flagship smartphone into the market.

Reports appear to point to a new version of the Nokia Lumia 920, which will be released through Verizon Wireless. Releasing the new Nokia flagship smartphone through the biggest mobile service provider of the US shows its significance for the company since it will provide the opportunity to increase its sales in the US.

According to Gartner analyst Carolina Milanesi, the move may allow the company to increase its sales volume since Verizon is expected to support the release of the device. This is particularly significant since the future of Motorola remains uncertain while the brand presence of HTC is currently under pressure.

Although the first quarter result of the company was a bit better than anticipated, the company still needs to improve its sales in the market since its overall performance is still considered a bit weak.

Despite an increase in revenue in the North American market, its sales are still low compared to its competitors.

The sales volume of the Nokia Lumia shows that it is still finding it difficult to make some headway in the US market. It also brings to mind some questions on how effective the exclusivity deal that company has with AT&T, which has contributed a small increase to the sales of the company in the market.

As Nokia continues to lag behind its competitors in the US market, sales of the Nokia Lumia line are beginning to show some promise. The company was able to deliver around 5.6 million units of the smartphones and is anticipating an increase in shipments for the second quarter. A new Nokia flagship smartphone may be what the company will need to give it the momentum that it needs in the US market.

The upcoming release of the new Nokia flagship smartphone may be what the company needs in order to increase its sales in the market, especially with the dominance of the smartphone offerings of Apple and Samsung.

Upcoming iPad 5 To Be Slimmer And Lighter

iPad 5

(Image Credit: http://www.nowhereelse.fr)

An analyst who is considered to have a good record when it comes to upcoming product offerings of Apple revealed that the next iPad or the iPad 5 will be lighter and slimmer compared to the current models of the device.

According to Mingchi Kuo, an analyst from KGI Securities, the next full-size model of the iPad will be lighter and slimmer, which is what the company used to practice in the past. In addition to the reduction in the size of the tablet, the company will also enhance the display of the iPad 5, reduce the battery size and use an A-series processor. The same touch technology that is used on the iPad Mini will also be used on the upcoming model of the iPad.

Kuo indicated in a note to investors that the main characteristics of the next iPad will be its lighter and slimmer design. Kuo added that these are some of the reasons why the iPad 3 and the iPad 4 did not do well in the market since they were thicker and heavier compared to the iPad 2.

These models were released into the market seven months apart, and consumers may have waited for the next version since the iPad 3 used the now-obsolete 30-pin connector. The next full-size model of the iPad is expected to be released within the third quarter of the year.

The revelation of the analyst is the latest report that hints of a slimmer model for the next iPad. The design of the upcoming iPad 5 will be similar to the design of the last three models, which is unlike that of the iPod and the iPhone. Last December, a report hinted at the possibility that a slimmer model of the iPad was being developed by Apple. However, the report also indicated that it was supposed to be launched by the company last month. A number of cases for the supposed iPad 5 have started to emerge, and the design hinted at the possibility that the next iPad will be slim, similar to the iPad Mini.

The accuracy of the predictions of Kuo has been uncanny since he was able to reveal the plans and the release schedule of the 13-inch model of the Retina MacBook Pro as well as the details about the iPad and the iPod. Prior to this, he was also accurate when he reported about the schedule for the iPhone 4 and the overhaul of the MacBook Pro product lineup. These speculations have led some industry watchers to take a closer look at his recent note to investors in connection to the iPad 5.

Low-Cost iPhone Image Leaked Hinting At Plastic Case

Low-Cost iPhone

(Image Credit: http://www.blog.tactus.com)

The supposed low-cost iPhone may come with a plastic casing and not the more expensive aluminum cover, which is featured on other versions of the device. An image leaked recently showed a white-colored iPhone that reportedly has a back made of plastic.

It can be recalled that a number of reports emerged suggesting that a cheaper version of the smartphone offering of Apple will be introduced into the market. The recently-leaked image may give proof to the existence of the device. The image was shared by Tactus, a manufacturer of mobile casings. It showed the plastic back case of for the iPhone of Apple.

It remains uncertain how the manufacturer was able to get hold of the casing and whether the supposed casing for the low-cost iPhone is authentic. However, reports indicating that the cheaper versions of the smartphone will be offered in the market initially emerged last February through Macotakara, an Apple news website based in Japan.

The website revealed that the next iPhone will be thicker compared to the current models of the device.

Although it may be possible for Apple to introduce the low-cost iPhone into the market before the end of the year, it may not be the last iPhone that the company will introduce this year. Reports have indicated that the next iPhone will be called the iPhone 5S, which will featured better graphics, an enhanced processor, and a bigger display.

Apple has not confirmed reports of the supposed cheaper version of the iPhone, which is typical of the company when it comes to rumors and speculations. The company normally offers an aluminum casing for the iPhone although it may be possible Apple to offer a low-cost iPhone with a plastic case as shown on the image that was leaked recently.

Nokia Phablet Coming Soon

Nokia

(Image Credit: http://www.slashgear.com)

“Strike when the iron is hot” appears to be the idiom of the day for Nokia as reports hinted at the possible release of a Nokia phablet that will go up against similar large-display smartphones such as the Samsung Galaxy Note.

An unidentified source revealed that the Finnish multinational company is aiming to enter the phablet market with a number of devices that are set to be released before the end of the year including the reported Nokia phablet. The source revealed that the device will be a smartphone/tablet hybrid similar to the device currently being offered by the South Korean company in the market.

In addition to the reported Nokia phablet, the company is also set to release a number of high-end smartphones within the year. This comes as the Nokia Lumia product lineup continues to struggle to increase its share of the market that is currently being dominated by iOS and Android devices.

One of these high-end devices will be the first Nokia Lumia smartphone featuring the Pureview technology of the company. It will come with a forty-megapixel camera and is set to be introduced by the company by July.  Another smartphone that is set to be released is an enhanced version of the Nokia Lumia 920 along with a low-cost model, which will be released by fall.

The company revealed that it was able to deliver around 5.6 million units of its Lumia smartphone in the first quarter, which is higher than the 4.4 million units it delivered in the fourth quarter last year. However, this is nowhere near to the shipments that its competitors have reported for their respective devices.

Apple revealed that it delivered around 37 million units of its iPhones last quarter while Samsung reportedly shipped over 61 million units in the same period.

The Finnish company anticipates a 27 percent increase in shipments for its Lumia smartphones during the present quarter. Despite the upcoming release of Nokia phablet and other high-end smartphones, the company will have to double its effort in order to get a good enough share of the market that is currently dominated by Samsung and Apple.

Limitations Set For Google Glass Explorer Edition

Google Glass

(Image Credit: http://www.google.com)

Developers who will receive the Google Glass Explorer Edition will have to think twice before they resell or even simply allow other people to borrow the device due to a provision on the terms of service for the augmented reality eyewear.

Apparently the online search giant has thought about all possible circumstances when it will release the device to developers. The terms of service indicate that the device will be deactivated if it will be loaned or resold to someone else by the developer. Developers had to shell out $1,500 for the opportunity to use the device ahead of everybody else.

The rule for the Google Glass Explorer Edition is quite specific since it tells developers that they cannot resell, transfer, loan or even simply give the device to another person. If they do this without the authorization from Google, the internet search giant can deactivate the device, and the developer will not get any refund from the company. They will also not get any product warranty or support for it.

This is not the only restriction that the company has in place for the Google Glass Explorer Edition. Since majority of the revenue of the company comes from advertisements, or around 95 percent, it also prevents developers from creating advertisements on the much-anticipated wearable device. The so-called “Glassware” developers are prohibited from including advertisements or charge users when they download applications for the device.

Google released the terms of service recently together with the programming interface the developers will use in creating applications for the augmented reality eyewear and the Mirror API documentation. The specifications for the device were also released by the internet search giant as the Google Glass Explorer Edition was gradually released to its users.

Leak Shows Specs Of Upcoming Samsung Galaxy Tab 3

Samsung Galaxy Tab 3

(Image Credit: http://www.techradar.com)

Recent reports have hinted at the possibility that the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 will feature models having a screen size of eight and ten inches.

Specifications were reportedly leaked recently showing three new tablet offerings from Samsung that will increase its already huge lineup of tablets. The upcoming variant of the Galaxy Tab may feature a 10.1-inch tablet and another similarly-sized tablet that is set to be promoted to the high-end market. The third tablet will reportedly have an 8-icnh screen display.

The display screens of two of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 models will supposedly feature a resolution of 1280 by 800. They will also come with a dual-core 1.5GHz processor, 3MP camera at the back, 1.3MP camera in front, and a microSD memory card slot. The devices will run on the Android 4.1 OS.

The 10.1-inch variant of the tablet will also feature a 1GB RAM as compared to the supposed 2GB RAM on the eight-inch model. The ten-inch model will also have an internal storage of 16GB although the storage capacity of the eight-inch model remains uncertain.

On the other hand, the resolution of the display screen on the high-end variant of the ten-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 will be at 2500 by 1600 pixels. It will also feature the 1.7GHz dual-core Exynos 5 processor of Samsung, 2GB RAM, the Mali-T694 GPU and an internal storage of 16GB. It will also offer users the opportunity to expand its storage through a microSD memory card.

Other features of this variant of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 include a 5MP camera at the back, 1.9MP camera in front and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity. It will run using the Android 4.2 OS.

The high-end model of the tablet is expected to compete directly with the Google Nexus 10. The processor, display resolution, RAM, and GPU of the tablet is similar to those found on the Google tablet.

Since Samsung has yet to confirm the existence of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3, these reports will remain speculations until proven otherwise.

Smell-O-Vision Coming To Iron Man 3

Iron Man 3

(Image Credit: http://www.marvel.com)

“Smell-o-Vision” anyone? It appears that the 1960s innovation is making a comeback in Japan as “Iron Man 3” will makes its debut in the “Land of the Rising Sun” in 4DX, complete with seats that tilt and smells.

Imagine a scene where Iron Man fires off his pulse beams and you suddenly smell something strange in the air. Something similar to this will reportedly be used in theaters in Japan when the third installment of the Iron Man movie hits the big screen. The 4DX system will give moviegoers a more interactive experience as more senses will be able to feel the movie as it is shown.

A number of devices will be installed in movie theaters with the coming of the 4DX format. Among the features that will be installed are tilting seats, fog and wind devices, ceiling-mounted bubble generators, strobe lighting, and of course odor effects. The addition of these devices for the “Iron Man 3” will make the theater appear as if it was taken over by some funky-minded genius.

The 4DX technology was originally developed in Korea although it will reach the shores of Japan in time for the showing of “Iron Man 3.” It is also possible that US moviegoers will get to experience the 4DX system sometime in the future since the CJ Group or the company behind the system is planning to bring it into the US.

Speculations are expected to emerge on what odors moviegoers will get a whiff of when it comes to the US. The laboratory of Tony Stark may smell like metal and solder. While the explosions that will come out on the screen in the “Iron Man 3” movie may reek of a good amount of gunpowder.

HTC 606w To Be Released In China

HTC 606w

(Image Credit: http://www.techradar.com)

Recent reports have hinted at the possibility that HTC will be launching a new device into the Chinese market soon, the HTC 606w.

The device will feature a 4.2-inch 720p screen display and 1.2GHz dual-core processor, according to the leak that emerged recently over the net. The mid-range device will also come with an internal storage of 16GB and 2GB RAM. It will be offered initially in China. However, the report did not give any indications if it will be released in other markets around the world.

The regulatory documents revealed that the soon-to-be-released HTC smartphone will come with the Android 4.1.2 OS out of the box. In comparison, a number of the latest smartphones that were released into the market recently often come with the typical Android 4.2 OS.

Reports have indicated that the device was supposedly already given the approval by the regulatory body of China, the Telecommunications Equipment Center. This indicates that the HTC 606w may be released into the Chinese market soon.

Blurred Photos A Thing Of The Past With New Photoshop Feature

Adobe Photoshop

(Image Credit: http://www.adobe.com)

The latest version of Adobe Photoshop will include a tool that will allow people to fix the blur resulting from a wobbly camera.

According to the company, the upcoming version of its image-editing software will include a deblurring filter that will be heaven-sent for photo enthusiasts who do not find it easy to take out the camera shake whenever they take photos. A video was shown by the company featuring the filter as it promoted the upcoming Adobe Max event that is scheduled to be held next month.

Senior Photoshop product manager Zoriana Gee said that the camera shake reduction tool will allow users to remove the blur in the photos that they take. The feature will be particularly useful when it comes to low-light situations and slow shutter speeds.

However it appears that the tool will likely be available for Creative Cloud subscribers since the Creative Suite 7 will not be available soon. Adobe revealed that the feature will be offered once it has been finalized by the company. Clients who traditionally purchase perpetual licenses will have to wait for the release of the CS7 into the market in order to take advantage of the feature.

A number of cameras have had to deal with blurred photos in the past, and researchers have been trying to come up with a practical blurring technique that will make reduce if not eliminate it. Some of these methods include finding out how the camera moved and reversing the effect.

The feature can be applied as a filter on a particular area in the photo. The method used by Adobe remains uncertain although it will be eventually revealed once the feature is released into the market.

Personally, this feature will take out the thrill of the taking good photos. Blurring due to camera shake is one of the things that photo enthusiasts take into consideration when they take their shots. Although it will also allow photo enthusiasts to create salvage pictures that were otherwise ruined by blurring.

Blurred photos are a part of the challenge of photo enthusiasts and taking away this challenge will make the pursuit rather less . . .  challenging.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Features Four Cores

Samsung Galaxy S4

(Image Credit: http://www.samsung.com)

The South Korean company recently confirmed that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S4 will come with a quad-core processor instead of one that features eight cores.

When the next variant of the Galaxy S line was announced last month, speculations emerged on what processor the smartphone will have. Some reports hinted at the 1.9GHz quad-core processor from Qualcomm while others indicated that the device will feature a 1.6GHs eight-core Octa Exynos 5 processor from Samsung.

However, these speculations were recently put to rest by the confirmation by the South Korean manufacturer.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 will also have a five-inch full-HD Super AMOLED screen display and a 13MP camera at the back. The latest variation of the Galaxy S series will be run on the Jelly Bean Android 4.2.2 OS.

The upcoming smartphone will be offered through a number of mobile service providers including Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, C-Spire and Cricket. Staples, Costco, Sam’s Club, Target, Walmart, and RadioShack will also be offering the smartphone in the market.

The pricing structure will be released individually by each of the mobile service provider and retail outlet. The smartphone will be available in three models a 16GB model, 32GB model and a 64GB model. The version of T-Mobile will be released on April 24 at a price tag of around $150 with the usual 24-month service contract. On the other hand, the Sprint version of the Samsung Galaxy S4 will be available by April 27 at around $250 with the typical two-year mobile service contract.

Slim iPad 5 Hinted By Casing In HK Market

iPad 5 Casing

(Image Credit: http://www.engadget.com)

Rumors mills have been churning out a steady supply of unconfirmed reports about the iPad 5, and the latest reports have resulted to a number of case designs for the next model of the iPad.

Reports have indicated that a number of slim casings for the iPad 5 have started to emerge online and in Hong Kong. A number of these cases have been posted on Alibaba.com while some were available at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair. These cases have hinted at the possibility that the next version of the iPad will be slimmer even as its screen size will still be similar to the current version of the device.

Alibaba.com already has a number of listings showing the casing for the upcoming model of the iPad. This shows that suppliers in China are capable of producing accessories for any Apple product even before they are released into the market. Earlier reports had hinted at slimmer backlights, which would result to a thinner model of the iPad. The device will reportedly have the same screen size despite its slimmer profile.

An image was leaked earlier that was supposedly that of the upcoming iPad 5 that gave rise to speculations that the device will be slimmer compared to the current version of the iPad.

Delays Affect Production Of iPhone 5S, iPhone 6

Apple Devices

(Image Credit: http://www.cnet.com)

It appears that enthusiasts who are eagerly waiting for the release of the iPhone 5S, iPhone 6 and all other mobile devices of Apple will have to wait a little bit longer. Peter Misek, an analyst from Jefferies, revealed that the release of the next iPhone will likely face some delays.

The analyst reportedly paid a visit to the Asian suppliers of Apple and discovered that production delays may result to the postponement of the launch of the low-cost model of the iPhone. Earlier reports had hinted at the possibility that the device will be released into the market in July, but with the delays it may not hit the shelves until the fourth quarter. On the other hand, the iPhone 6 may be released into the market next year.

Misek revealed that pre-production issues have plagued the iPhone 5S for at least one month. Together with the delay in the release of the iOS 7, it would appear that the July 7 release of the low-cost iPhone will be postponed. He added that they do not foresee the release of the iPhone 6 before the end of the year.

Aside from the iPhone 5S, the iPhone 6 and the iOS 7, the production of other products of the company will also face delays. The new model of the iPad Mini will be delayed while there is no hint of when the start of production of the reported iWatch of Apple would be. The iPad 5 may be released into the market, but its volume may be limited.

A number of reports had hinted at the possibility that Apple will be releasing a bigger iPhone, a low-cost iPhone, the iWatch, and the iOS 7 among others this year. However, these reports have remained unconfirmed even as the competitors of the tech giant have gradually released products of their own.

In addition to dealing with the reports on the delay of the release of the iPhone 5S, Apple may have to face lower-than-expected sales for the iPhone and the iPad for the second quarter.

Google Glass Specs Released

Google Glass

(Image Credit: http://www.google.com)

Hot on the heels of the report that the Google Glass will be made available for developers, the online search giant has released the technical specifications of the augmented reality eyewear.

The upcoming device will feature storage of 16GB where the five-megapixel images can be stored. It is also capable of recording 720p videos. The details were released recently to developers who receive the Explorer edition of the device. A number of developers who shelled out $1,500 each will receive the device, which was gradually being released by the company.

The augmented reality eyewear will also come with a 16GB Flash storage that is synched with the Google cloud storage with 12GB available for use. Connectivity options for Google Glass include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The device will also be able to SMS and GPS messaging with using the MyGlass companion application, but this is limited to devices using the Android 4.0.3 OS.

The nose pad of the device can be adjusted and each user will have two additional nose pads in two different sizes. The frame will fit well with any face type. The display resolution is similar to a 25-inch HD screen viewed from a distance of eight feet. The battery life of Google Glass can last for one whole day for ordinary usage.

Google Glass is also compatible with any smartphone that has Bluetooth capability.

Grand Theft Auto Music Playlist Released By Rockstar Games

Grand Theft Auto

(Image Credit: http://www. en.wikigta.org)

The complete Grand Theft Auto music playlist was compiled recently by Rockstar Games, which is a great treat for fans of the video game series.

The music of the Grand Theft Auto has always been an icon of the video game series since it allows enthusiasts of the game of being a part of a larger-than-life sense of the American culture. Spotify account holders will be able to download the playlist for free although they would have to cope with some advertisements here and there. The Grand Theft Auto playlist can also be purchased through Apple iTunes at a price of a penny.

Actually fans of the game can get the playlist if they were diligent enough to create their own playlist through the years when the game was released into the market. However this official playlist will allow game enthusiasts who were too busy (read: lazy) to build their own personal playlist to have the entire Grand Theft Auto music playlist all in one download.

The Grand Theft Auto soundtracks have also been available in physical form for a number of years already.

The link for the entire Grand Theft Auto music playlist is also available on the website of Rockstar. Spotify users can simply go to the public profile of Rockstargames and get all the tracks in one download.

A number of game enthusiasts were amused by the radio stations while cruising along the streets of San Andreas or Liberty City. However, it appears that these are not available although some are hoping that they will be released by Rockstar in the future. It can also be noted that aside from the Grand Theft Auto music playlist, the website offers a number of radio commercials from the game series although not all of them can be considered safe for work.

Smartwatch Offering From Microsoft Hinted On Report

Microsoft

(Image Credit: http://www.financialpress.com)

Even as Apple has yet to confirm the reports on the development of the iWatch, it may already have a rival from a smartwatch that will reportedly be developed by Microsoft.

According to sources within the supply chain in Asia, components for a watch device that is touch-enabled were reportedly requested by the tech giant. This means that the company is looking into entering the soon-to-be-crowded smartwatch market.

The suppliers in Asia revealed that the company has requested to deliver parts for a device that can be made into a touch-enabled watch device. One of the executives of the suppliers revealed that he had a discussion with the research and development team of Microsoft in Redmond, Washington. However, it remains uncertain if the company will be developing its own version of a smartwatch.

Microsoft will become a part of select group of tech leaders who are reportedly working on their own wrist-worn touch-enabled device. Reports had earlier revealed that Apple was supposedly working on an iOS device that can be worn like a wristwatch, which some industry watchers have dubbed as the iWatch. Reports also revealed that around 100 people were supposedly working on the device.

A Samsung senior executive has also reportedly revealed that the company is also developing devices that can be worn, including a smartwatch. Preparations for such a device were supposedly made by the South Korean company for some time already.

But the more notable wearable device that has hit the news recently was the Google Glass of the online search giant. Aside from the augmented reality eyewear, a patent application from the company has showed that it is set to develop a timepiece that has a clear touchscreen that can flip up from its base that can be used as a secondary screen display.

Discussions on timepieces such as these have cropped up during the Consumer Electronics Show. Some of these smartwatch devices include the Pebble wristwatch, which was unveiled at the event, as well as the Martian Passport Watch.

WordPress Blogs Affected By Massive Hacker Attack

WordPress

(Image Credit: http://www. commons.wikimedia.org)

The last time I logged into my WordPress account was nearly nine months ago and with the recent report on the massive attack on WordPress blogs ahs left me thinking twice about logging into it again. However, since the user name that I used is somewhat strange for anyone to consider allowed me to breathe a huge sigh of relief.

The reason for this is the recent report that showed that the attack mainly focused on trying simply usernames coupled with passwords that were typically used by some bloggers that makes it easy for them to remember. However, both my username and password are basically out-of-this-world makes me sleep well at night knowing that it make take some time before these hackers will be able to compromise my WordPress account.

Then again it does pay to make sure to change my password as soon as possible.

The massive attack on WordPress blogs was discovered recently by security companies, which indicated that the hackers were using brute force to gain access into the accounts. This will likely affect accounts where the usernames and the passwords are among the most-oft used ones by users that will allow them to easily remember them.

According to Incapsula, a security firm, the infected sites have been seeded with a backdoor that will allow the attackers to control the site remotely. HostGator, a hosting site, also gave out warnings about the attack. The site indicated that a global, highly-distributed attack on WordPress-backed sites was currently ongoing and it is attacking virtually all web hosts across the world.

The attack was reportedly well-organized and involved more than 90,000 IP addresses around the world. It also recommended that anyone using the WordPress installation to change their password as soon as possible into one that complies with the requirements of the WordPress site.

Although the attack appeared to have stemmed a week ago, it started to pick up again recently. Among the symptoms of the attack was a slow performance on the back-end or the inability to log into the account itself. HostGator was trying to reduce the effects of the attack on its server farm but was limited to a certain degree,

There were no reports that the attack affected the bog or the Twitter account of WordPress was affected.

Google Glass Explorer Edition To Be Released Soon

Google Glass

(Image Credit: http://www.google.com)

The Google Glass Explorer Edition will be released to developers before the end of the month. This piece of news was confirmed recently by the online search giant, which means you can actually get a hands-on trial of the device if you are a developer who is ready to shell out $1,500 for the augmented reality eyewear. This also means that anyone who wants to meet up with these developers should be on their best behavior since whatever they will do may be broadcast live over at a Hangout of the host.

The announcement by Google came as the company revealed the partnership between Google Ventures and a number of big guns over at Silicon Valley, which include Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers and Andreessen Horowitz. The partnership will invest in a number of startups that are currently working on products for the “Glass Ecosystem.”

Some industry watchers are hoping that some of these startups will result to some products that will make the Google Glass fashionable enough to wear at a major awards show.

It appears that developers will be receiving the augmented reality eyewear before the upcoming Google I/O event, which is scheduled to be held next month. This is also around one year after the Google Glass was initially introduced by the company at the Moscone convention hall in San Francisco.

Developers who are lucky enough to be able to receive the Google Glass Explorer edition can pick them up in San Francisco, New York or in Los Angeles.