iPhone 4S Deemed Best iPhone Yet by Owners, Galaxy Nexus Runs Impressive 4G LTE Speed Test & Public Mobile Introduces U.S. Roaming

iPhone 4S Deemed Best iPhone Yet by Owners
A recent study carried out by ChangeWave Research found that 96% of iPhone 4S owners are satisfied with their smartphone, with 77% of survey respondents having said they were very satisfied with the new iPhone and 19% claiming to be somewhat satisfied. About 1% said they were somewhat unsatisfied with the phone and another 1% said they were very unsatisfied.
BGR

Verizon-branded Galaxy Nexus Runs Impressive 4G LTE Speed Test on Two Bars
How fast can the Samsung Galaxy Nexus run on Verizon’s 4G network? Pretty darn fast, according to a freshly leaked video. Originally spotted by the folks over at Phandroid, the clip shows a Verizon-branded Galaxy Nexus performing rather admirably on a speed trial from Speedtest.net, reaching download speeds of 8.5Mbps, and upstream rates of 2Mbps — all on just two bars of signal.
Engadget

Public Mobile Introduces U.S. Roaming
Today Public went south. The ber entry level cost conscious carrier has introduced U.S roaming. In an internal doc we received it states that their “roaming coverage has expanded with the addition of a new US roaming partner. Customers can now talk and text in the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands (Alaska and Montana are not included).
MobileSyrup

Want to Find If Your Phone Has Carrier IQ? There’s an App for That
It’s hard to even find out if your phone has Carrier IQ installed, but now an Android developer created an app that does exactly that. Voodoo Carrier IQ detector is an Android app, and it’s currently available for free on the Android Market.
Mashable

Lumia Line to Get Nokia Drive Update, 18% of Canadian Drivers Admit to Talking While Driving & HTC Tapped to Build Facebook Phone

Survey Finds That 18% of Canadian Drivers Admit to Talking/Texting While Driving
A new survey has been released by insurance company Kanetix that reveals talking and texting while driving is still very prevalent. The survey was conducted between October 24th and October 26th of 1,344 Canadians and found that 18% of voters admitted to “Talking/Texting on my cell while driving”.
MobileSyrup

Lumia Line to Get Nokia Drive Update, Fully Cuts the Network Cord
Since the announcement of the Nokia Lumia launch, Nokia Drive’s been wrestled free from its polycarbonate chains, but the perks of being a Lumia owner are still incoming.
Engadget

HTC Reportedly Tapped to Build Facebook Phone, Code-named ‘Buffy’
On Monday, AllThingsD said it has learned that Facebook is working closely with HTC on a new phone currently codenamed “Buffy.” The device will supposedly run a modified version of Android that, obviously, will put Facebook’s services smack in the faces of its users.
BGR

Apple on Track to Be the World’s No. 1 PC Vendor Next Year
Apple‘s long climb back from the margins of the PC industry will culminate in world domination next year, according to one researcher — but only if you consider the iPad a PC. Canalys is projecting that Apple will overtake Hewlett-Packard as the leading global PC vendor sometime before the second half of 2012.
Mashable

Virgin Launches New Incoming 35 Plan, RIM is Committed to the Keyboard & Nokia`s Planning a High-End Lumia

Virgin Launches New Incoming 35 Plan, Gives Unlimited Incoming Calls
The best feature of the new Virgin “Incoming 35 plan is that it gives you Unlimited incoming calls. In addition, included is 200 anytime minutes, evenings starting at 5pm, unlimited weekends, Unlimited Canada, U.S. and International text and picture messaging.
MobileSyrup

RIM: ‘We’re Committed to the Keyboard’
In spite of all the gossip about BBX screens becoming more tablet-like and the rumored BlackBerry ‘London’ being QWERTY-less, RIM will “maintain choice within its product portfolio” and is “absolutely committed to building more great keyboard-based smartphones.”
Engadget

Google Voice for Android Updated With Group Text Support
Google updated its Google Voice client for Android smartphones on Tuesday with support for group texting. In addition, the client now supports the ability to prefetch voicemails so that you can listen to them when you’re outside data coverage.
BGR

Nokia Planning a Windows 8 Tablet and a High-End Lumia
“(Lumia 800) is just the equivalent of the BMW 5 Series. We will soon have a full range with a Series 7 and Series 3,” said Amsellem in an interview with French newspaper LesEchos.
Mashable

Apple Preparing New Wireless Sharing Feature That Will Compete With WebOS ‘Touch-To-Share’

Apple has been testing a new wireless sharing feature that could allow users to quickly and easily transfer files from various iOS devices, PatentlyApple has discovered. The technology will no doubt compete with HP’s webOS “Touch-to-share” feature, which lets the Palm Pre3 and the TouchPad share files with one another. Though there is no indication as to when Apple might implement the tech, Apple’s patents outline a technology that appears to one-up HP’s offering. The patent describes the sharing experience as including both visual and audio aspects. As PatentlyApple points out, imagine an iPad “sucking” the files from your iPhone with a vacuum noise, and seeing the files leave the iPhone and appear on the iPad in an animated fashion.

Read the full story at BGR

Samsung Conquer 4G now ready for your purchase on Sprint

It's August 21st, which equates to good news for hopeful buyers of the Samsung Conquer 4G. The latest device cranking out the WiMAX is available for a Benjamin starting today, both online and at Sprint stores. As a refresher, the Conquer brings a 1GHz CPU with Android 2.3.4 and 512MB of RAM, and does so using a 3.5-inch HVGA display. So no more rumors, no more Blurrycam shots, and definitely no more presales -- it's time for the real deal, if you're so inclined to make the two-year commitment.

Best-ever Full HD video image quality, audio and ergonomics: Sony introduces the Handycam NEX-VG20E

Sony NEX-VG20E Handycam, Sony camcorder, Full HD video, high resolution, still photo, HD camcorder, Handycam, NEX VG20E

The new Handycam NEX-VG20E camcorder from Sony broadens creative possibilities for shooting cinematic Full HD video and high-resolution still photos. Offering comprehensive manual controls, the NEX-VG20E lets videographers explore the artistic potential of the growing range of E-Mount lenses. With refined ergonomics, improved imaging quality and upgraded sound, it provides several enhancements over the acclaimed NEX-VG10E – the world’s first consumer HD camcorder with interchangeable lenses.

With a resolution of 16.1 effective megapixels, the Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor assures outstanding video image quality, with extremely low noise in low light. It also captures pristine 16 megapixel still photos, with RAW format support for all the post-processing flexibility that’s familiar to DSLR users.

 

Whether you’re shooting video or stills, the large sensor rivals the expressive picture quality of a DSLR camera. This allows the creation of beautiful background defocus (‘bokeh’) effects with your E-mount lens collection.

 

Full HD video shooting in AVCHD format is now complemented by a choice of 50p and 25p (progressive) frame rate options. Footage shot at 25p can be enhanced with Cinema Tone Gamma and Cinema Tone Colour for an even richer, more cinematic look.

 

Dialogue and other sounds are captured by the precision Quad Capsule Spatial Array Microphone that now supports stereo and 5.1 channel surround. There’s a new audio level control, plus pro-style jacks for an external mic and monitoring headphones.

 

Several ergonomic refinements let videographers shoot HD video and stills in even greater comfort. The camcorder’s handgrip has been redesigned that offers excellent stability. Allowing manual adjustment of exposure, iris and other settings, the pro-style control dial can now be accessed even when LCD panel is closed.

 

Button layout has also been revised with ‘hard’ function keys, direct access to each shooting mode (Iris, Shutter speed, Program AE), a second REC button for low-angle shots and expanded focus button – all sited for intuitive operation without taking your eye from the electronic viewfinder.

 

Shots can also be framed and reviewed on the 7.5cm/3″ Xtra Fine LCD that features TruBlack technology for clear, high contrast images. The screen can be rotated over a 270 degree range for easy framing in any position, even with the camera held low. Touch panel operation simplifies fingertip operation of shooting functions.

 

The Handycam NEX-VG20EH comes with the SEL18200 F3.5-6.3 E-mount lens. With a wide 11x optical zoom range and built-in Optical SteadyShot, this versatile lens offers smooth, quiet autofocus operation during movies and still shooting.

 

There is now a choice of seven E-mount lenses to cover virtually any shooting situation. Also available, the optional LA-EA2 lens mount adaptor gives even wider compatibility with the established family of A-mount optics. Translucent Mirror Technology supports high-speed phase-detection AF that keeps even fast-moving subjects in focus.

 

The Handycam NEX-VG20E Full HD E-mount system camcorder from Sony is available from November 2011.

 

US Government offers up $103 million for rural broadband expansion

The US Department of Agriculture announced this week that it will make available more that $103 million aimed at bringing broadband to areas of the US with little or no access to the technology. The money will go toward 23 projects in areas including parts of Oklahoma damaged by a recent tornado and a mountainous region in Northern California, which will provide internet access to native tribes. For the full list of recipients, check the source link below.

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Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces Projects to Provide Broadband to Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 22, 2011 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that 18 recipients will receive more than $103 million in funding for 23 projects to provide broadband services to unserved and underserved rural communities. Residents and businesses that will benefit from this funding include those in an Oklahoma community damaged by a tornado earlier this year.

"Without broadband, rural communities, agricultural producers and business owners face a substantial challenge," Vilsack said. "These loans and grants will bring the benefits of broadband, including new educational, business and public health and safety opportunities, to residents living in some of the most remote parts of our Nation."

One of the successful applications is from Wichita Online, Inc., which will use a USDA Rural Development Community Connect program grant to provide broadband to the rural community of Tushka Town, Okla. The community was hit by a tornado on April 14, 2011, that killed two people and destroyed or damaged a number of buildings in the community. Rural Development's $480,000 grant to Wichita Online, Inc. will provide residents with broadband service and new opportunities for economic development.

The Community Connect program has been instrumental in providing broadband access to residents in remote areas and low-income communities. This year, the Karuk Tribe in Orleans, Calif., will receive a Community Connect grant to provide Internet services to 570 tribal members in a mountainous region of Northern California. Of the Community Connect grants being announced today, seven grants will provide broadband to communities that are plagued by persistent poverty.

In addition to the Community Connect grants, Secretary Vilsack announced $90 million in loan funding for five broadband infrastructure projects. For example, the Dubois Telephone Exchange, for example, has been selected for an $11.4 million loan to provide broadband to nearly all of the businesses and residents in Wyoming's Upper Wind River country and Little Snake River Valley. The loan is expected to create 100 jobs and save up to 150 others. Recreation and tourism are the leading industries in Dubois and the Upper Wind River Country, and broadband will enable those industries to thrive. The Vernon Telephone Cooperative, in Westby, Wis., has been selected for a $24 million loan to build a Fiber-To-The-Premises (FTTP) system in areas outside the town. Vernon also plans to make other system improvements in several area exchanges.

The infrastructure loans announced today are in addition to $192 million in loans Secretary Vilsack announced on July 27, 2011, through USDA Rural Development's Telecommunications Infrastructure Program.

The Community Connect program provides grants to rural, economically challenged communities. Funds can be used to construct, acquire or lease facilities to deploy broadband to community facilities such as schools and public safety buildings, as well as residents and businesses in the community. Each project requires a matching contribution and must serve an area where broadband is not available. The grantee must agree to provide local community centers in the selected towns with at least 10 computers which are accessible free for two years. USDA funding for all loans and grants is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.

For a complete list of the awardees, click here.

In June, President Obama signed an Executive Order establishing the first White House Rural Council, chaired by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The White House Rural Council will work throughout government to create policies to promote economic prosperity and a high quality of life in rural communities.

Since taking office, President Obama's Administration has taken significant steps to improve the lives of rural Americans and has provided broad support for rural communities. The Obama Administration has set goals of modernizing infrastructure by providing broadband access to 10 million Americans, expanding educational opportunities for students in rural areas, and providing affordable health care. In the long term, these unparalleled rural investments will help ensure that America's rural communities are repopulating, self-sustaining and thriving economically.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $155 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.

Samsung cites '2001: A Space Odyssey' in Apple case

We always appreciate a good 2001 reference, but we can't say we expected to see one crop up in Samsung's ongoing legal dispute with Apple. As noted by FOSS Patents' Florian Mueller though, that's just what Samsung has done in an opposition brief filed last night, which cites the tablet-like devices pictured above as an example of prior art for Apple's iPad-related design patent. Of course, that's just one small part of Samsung's overall defense, but it is certainly one of the most interesting we've seen so far. Head on past the break for the film clip in question.

Logitech Unveils Two New Tablet Accessories That Let You Work and Play Smart

Logitech Tablet Accessories, Logitech Joystick, Logitech Keyboard, iPad 2Fold Up Keyboard, Fold Up Keyboard, Logitech Joystick for iPad, Logitech Joystick for iPad

Today Logitech unveiled two new accessories that help you make the most of your tablet. The Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2 is the ideal tool for comfy, on-the-go typing, and the Logitech Joystick for iPad offers more accurate, immersive game play. Moving tablet use beyond the traditional touchpad strokes, both devices empower you to interact with your iPad more efficiently, extending your tablet experience into the world around you.

“Many people are using tablets in ways that require more than fingertip scrolling, pointing and pressing on the touchpad,” said Azmat Ali, Logitech vice president of mobile and tablet products. “Whether you’re typing notes, emailing, or playing games, both devices greatly extend flexibility when it comes to creating content or enjoying entertainment.”

 

Highlights of Logitech’s new iPad tablet accessories:

 

Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2

 

The Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2 is your perfect on-the-go solution. With a full-size, Bluetooth keyboard and stand, you simply open and type, and close and forget. Closed, the keyboard rests securely underneath your iPad 2. Open, it holds the tablet at an ideal angle for typing and taking notes. Unlike folio-style Bluetooth keyboards, the Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for iPad 2 is full-sized for comfy typing. And it charges over USB, so you never need to worry about replacing batteries. The device wakes up and is ready to use as soon as it’s unfolded, and turns itself off automatically when folded to save battery power.

 

Logitech Joystick for iPad

 

The Logitech Joystick for iPad is the perfect gaming companion for your iPad or iPad 2. No one likes to lose a point or go down in defeat because their thumb misses the control area. The Logitech Joystick for iPad gives you a thumb-stick style game controller that you can use with just about any game with an on-screen joystick or d-pad. The device attaches to your iPad with suction cups that are easy to apply and easy to remove. And the coiled spring provides force feedback that automatically returns the joystick to the center position.

 

Pricing and Availability

 

The Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in September, for a suggested retail price of $129.99 (U.S.). The Logitech Joystick is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in September, for a suggested retail price of $19.99 (U.S.).

 

Plastic Logic granted a second life, scores trial in Russian schools

Poor Plastic Logic, one of the early innovators and hype builders in the e-reader race, has never been able to get its act together. But, following an initial investment of $150 million from Russian firm Rusnano in January, it seems the company has finally found a home for its beleaguered readers. After demoing the units for Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, the new investors secured a deal for 1,000 of the Que descendents to be given a trial in Russian schools. Perhaps redemption will come for Plastic Logic by succeeding where the Kindle was deemed such an absolute failure.

HTC Sense 3.5 beta screenshots leak, bring tears of joy to weather widget lovers

Now that you've seen high-quality images of the HTC Bliss with the screen turned off, are you curious to see what it looks like when it's on? The same folks at XDA.cn who got hands-on time with the Bliss have now come forth with possible screenshots showing the phone is indeed running on a beta version of Sense UI 3.5. What's new here? Even though the lock screen uses the same ring-style unlocking feature as its predecessor, it appears that the new UI will feature two dedicated buttons at the bottom of the home panel -- for the app tray on the left and phone on the right -- and refreshed widgets (including a larger weather panel), among other minor changes. Word also has it that HTC is removing hardware requirements that restricted version 3.0 to the company's highest-end devices, which gives hope to millions of Sense users still on an older, more streamlined UI. More screenshots can be found at the source link.

3G coverage survey gives British smartphone users little to smile about

The UK has plenty of endearing olde worlde attributes, but its lack of fast mobile data access isn't one of them. The country has yet to enter the LTE era and, according to a crowdsourced survey by the BBC, it's still plagued by "not spots" where you can't get 3G reception either. More than 40,000 Brits downloaded a tailor-made Android app that recorded their local street level access and their results proved that many city centers and rural areas are effectively no-go swamplands for smartphone users -- although coverage was good over 70- to 80-percent of Her Majesty's territory. It's about time we did a similar survey in the US. Oh, and check out the source link to watch a Galaxy II-owning village vicar vent his frustrations in the politest possible way.