Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/mobile-miscellany-week-of-may-21st-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/mobile-miscellany-week-of-may-21st-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/26/mobile-miscellany-week-of-may-21st-2012/#comments Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012

Not all mobile news is destined for the front page, but if you're like us and really want to know what's going on, then you've come to the right place. This past week, it was revealed that the HTC EVO 4G LTE likely supports simultaneous voice and data connections on Sprint's network, Samsung's Galaxy Ace 2 landed at Three in the UK and Vertu revealed a refresh to its Constellation series of luxury phones. These stories and more await after the break. So buy the ticket and take the ride as we explore the "best of the rest" for this week of May 21st, 2012.

Continue reading Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012

Mobile Miscellany: week of May 21st, 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 26 May 2012 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsaustraliabatmanblackberryblackberry bold 9900blackberry bold 9930BlackberryBold9900BlackberryBold9930bold 9900bold 9930Bold9900Bold9930canadacloveeluga powerElugaPowerevo 4g lteEvo4gLtefccGalaxy Ace 2GalaxyAce2general motorsGeneralMotorsgmhtchtc evo 4g ltehtc one vhtc titanHtcEvo4gLteHtcOneVHtcTitankoodokoodo mobileKoodoMobilelglg optimus elitelg viperLgOptimusEliteLgViperlumia 610lumia 900lumia 900 batmanLumia610Lumia900Lumia900Batmanmmmobile miscellanyMobileMiscellanymobilepostmininetwork visionNetworkVisionnokianokia c7nokia lumia 610nokia lumia 900NokiaC7NokiaLumia610NokiaLumia900one vOneVonstaroptimus eliteOptimusElitepanasonicpanasonic eluga powerPanasonicElugaPowerremotelinkresearch in motionResearchInMotionrimsamsungsamsung galaxy ace 2SamsungGalaxyAce2smartphonesmartphonessonysony xperia uSonyXperiaUspectrumcosprintsvdosymbiant-mobilet-mobile ukT-mobileUktelstrathreethree ukThreeUktitanukverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvertuvertu constellationvertu constellation candyVertuConstellationVertuConstellationCandyvipervodafonevodafone ukVodafoneUkxperia uXperiaUSat, 26 May 2012 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia could sell luxury Vertu brand to VC firm for $265 million]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/nokia-vertu-vc-firm-permira/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/nokia-vertu-vc-firm-permira/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/nokia-vertu-vc-firm-permira/#comments Nokia could sell luxury Vertu brand to VC firm for $265 million

As much as it'd be interesting to see Windows Phone running on a $21,000 gold-plated cigar lighter, that's probably never going to happen. According to the UK's Financial Times, Nokia has been trying to hive off its luxury Vertu brand for months already, and has finally found a suitor with the right cash / sense ratio. Although still far from a done deal, we're told that venture capitalist firm Permira is willing to contribute up to $265 million to Nokia's needy coffers -- which might sound like a lot, but is mere costume jewelry to a manufacturer that just lost $1.7 billion.

Nokia could sell luxury Vertu brand to VC firm for $265 million originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 03:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandjewelryluxurymobilepostcrossmy dads a dictatornokiapermirasalevc firmVcFirmventure capitalventure capitalistVentureCapitalVentureCapitalistvertuMon, 30 Apr 2012 03:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu rings in the Year of the Dragon by welcoming a trio of Signature luxury phones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/vertu-signature-dragon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/vertu-signature-dragon/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/vertu-signature-dragon/#comments The Year of the Dragon is quickly approaching, and Vertu is in a celebrating mood. So much so, in fact, that it's added three new luxury Dragon handsets to its Signature collection. You can choose between stainless steel with emeralds, yellow gold with diamonds or ruby with black stainless steel. Each is, appropriately, adorned with a four-claw dragon on the battery cover, and the engraving process is rather lengthy: it involves 20 stages and takes four highly-skilled master craftsmen 36 hours, eight of which are dedicated just to the dragon's scales. But that's not all, folks -- each one gets shipped to Switzerland, where it's given the official stamp of authenticity, and returned to the workshop where precious stones are added for the final touch. That may sound like a steal at a mere $20,800, but Vertu even adds a charging cradle, a leather case and one year of free concierge service to the package. Tech specs? We haven't heard much about them, but they're rumored to run Symbian OS. We're sure you're now looking down at your new Samsung Galaxy Nexus with disdain, but we bet you could hire a few master craftsmen to make your own hand-engraved dragon for around the same price to help alleviate the regret.

Vertu rings in the Year of the Dragon by welcoming a trio of Signature luxury phones originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinadragonluxurymobilepostminimoneymoneymoneynokiarichsignaturesymbianvertuvertu signatureVertuSignatureThu, 05 Jan 2012 11:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia reportedly looking to sell Vertu, Russian oligarchs reportedly upset]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/nokia-reportedly-looking-to-sell-vertu-russian-oligarchs-report/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/nokia-reportedly-looking-to-sell-vertu-russian-oligarchs-report/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/08/nokia-reportedly-looking-to-sell-vertu-russian-oligarchs-report/#comments
It looks like Nokia has finally grown weary of the one percent. According to a report from the Financial Times, the Finnish manufacturer is looking to sell off its Vertu line of luxury handsets, as part of the firm's ongoing restructuring process. Citing a source "familiar with the process," the FT went on to explain that Goldman Sachs is overseeing the sale, though it's still in a nascent stage of development. The brand has reportedly attracted the interest of unnamed private equity firms, though the same insider claims that luxury goods vendors may toss their hats in the ring, as well. Neither Nokia nor Goldman have commented on the report, but we'll be sure to let you know when they do.

Nokia reportedly looking to sell Vertu, Russian oligarchs reportedly upset originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscorporatefinancefinancial timesFinancialTimesgoldman sachsGoldmanSachsindustryluxurymobilepostminimoneynokianokia vertuNokiaVertuPrivate equityPrivateEquityrichrumorsalesmartphonevertuvertu constellationvertu constellation tVertuConstellationVertuConstellationTThu, 08 Dec 2011 04:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Constellation packs gaudy brilliance, and we don't mean the AMOLED]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/vertu-constellation-packs-gaudy-brilliance-and-we-dont-mean-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/vertu-constellation-packs-gaudy-brilliance-and-we-dont-mean-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/21/vertu-constellation-packs-gaudy-brilliance-and-we-dont-mean-th/#comments

Vertu's first foray into the heady modern world of touchscreen phones has arrived, and it still looks KIRF-ably premium. But what's surprising is that the Constellation's feature ensemble is actually half-decent -- at least relative to its predecessors. Wearing an exclusive 3.5-inch AMOLED screen coated entirely in sapphire crystal, the Constellation completes the look with a "ceramic pillow" (we'd call it an 'earpiece') and a black alligator skin back cover. Last seen skulking around Bluetooth product listings, it's now back in the public spotlight with a confirmed eight megapixel camera, flanked by a twin LED flash and HSPA+ connections. There's no word on what OS this starlet is working with, though it's likely to be Symbian -- appropriate for all those oil barons, F1 drivers and other anachronistic rich types who can (send staff to) pick up their new Vertu from stores now.

Vertu Constellation packs gaudy brilliance, and we don't mean the AMOLED originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 02:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ConstellationConstellation TConstellationTdiamondshigh-endluxuryluxury phoneLuxuryPhonemobilemobilepostcrossmobilepostmininokiaphoneSymbianVertuVertu ConstellationVertu Constellation TVertuConstellationVertuConstellationTFri, 21 Oct 2011 02:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxury Vertu Constellation T smartphone now packs post-feudal technology]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/luxury-vertu-constellation-t-smartphone-now-sports-post-feudal-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/luxury-vertu-constellation-t-smartphone-now-sports-post-feudal-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/luxury-vertu-constellation-t-smartphone-now-sports-post-feudal-t/#comments Rich people in poor countries have had to make some terrible sacrifices when choosing a gem-encrusted handset. They've generally shopped at Vertu, the Nokia-owned go-to company for such ostentatious purchases, but its range of models has lacked even the most basic smartphone functionality. Now though, a Vertu Constellation T has cropped up at the Bluetooth SIG with distinctly forward-looking specs: a 3.5-inch 640 x 360 AMOLED touchscreen, eight megapixel shooter with twin LED flash, 32GB of onboard storage and an HSPA+ modem. You'll find some low-res pics after the break, but we fear they might not look expensive enough -- bear in mind that Vertu devices fetch an average of $7,000, rising to $27,000 for the ultimate provocation of the masses.

Continue reading Luxury Vertu Constellation T smartphone now packs post-feudal technology

Luxury Vertu Constellation T smartphone now packs post-feudal technology originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Constellation TConstellationTdiamondshigh-endluxurymobilepostcrossVertuVertu ConstellationVertu Constellation TVertuConstellationVertuConstellationTTue, 04 Oct 2011 07:50:00 EST<![CDATA[FCC Fridays: August 26, 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/fcc-fridays-august-26-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/fcc-fridays-august-26-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/fcc-fridays-august-26-2011/#comments We here at Engadget Mobile tend to spend a lot of way too much time poring over the latest FCC filings, be it on the net or directly on the ol' Federal Communications Commission's site. Since we couldn't possibly (want to) cover all the stuff that goes down there, we've gathered up all the raw info you may want (but probably don't need). Enjoy!

Update: It appears the FCC is doing some work on its website, which means some of the links may show up as an error for the next few days.

Phones

Read - Huawei G3512
Read - Huawei U8652
Read - Huawei U5200
Read - RIM REM71UW
Read - Samsung GT-S7250 Wave
Read - Samsung GT-I8150 Galaxy W
Read - Samsung GT-I9100P
Read - Samsung GT-C3330
Read - Samsung SGH-T989 Hercules
Read - Samsung E110S
Read - Vertu RM-681V (Constellation T)
Read - Fujitsu TSI11

FCC Fridays: August 26, 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>681vblackberryc3330constellationconstellation tConstellationTe110sfccfcc fridayfcc fridaysFccFridayFccFridaysfffridayfridaysfujitsuFujitsu TSI11FujitsuTsi11g3512galaxy wGalaxyWgt-c3330gt-i8150herculeshuaweiHuawei G3512huawei sonicHuawei U5200huawei u8652HuaweiG3512HuaweiSonicHuaweiU5200HuaweiU8652i8150i9100i9100pmobilepostminiresearch in motionResearchInMotionrimrm 681vrm-681vRm681vs7250samsungsamsung c3330Samsung E110Ssamsung galaxy wsamsung gt-c3330Samsung GT-I8150samsung gt-i9100samsung gt-i9100pSamsung GT-S7250samsung herculessamsung waveSamsungC3330SamsungE110sSamsungGalaxyWSamsungGt-c3330SamsungGt-i8150SamsungGt-i9100SamsungGt-i9100pSamsungGt-s7250SamsungHerculesSamsungWavesonictsi11u5200u8652vertuvertu constellation tVertu RM-681VVertuConstellationTVertuRm-681vwaveFri, 26 Aug 2011 11:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobile Miscellany: week of August 15, 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/20/mobile-miscellany-week-of-august-15-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/20/mobile-miscellany-week-of-august-15-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/20/mobile-miscellany-week-of-august-15-2011/#comments This week was packed with news on the mobile front, so it was easy to miss a few stories here and there. Here's some of the other stuff that happened in the wide world of wireless for the week of August 15, 2011:
  • Vodafone's very own budget-friendly Facebook Phone, the Vodafone 555, is now on sale. £62.50 is all it will take to get the non-touchscreen featurephone in your fingertips. [via SlashGear]
  • A spec sheet and screenshots of the Sony Ericsson Nozumi leaked this week. The handset will likely feature a 1.4GHz single-core Qualcomm S2 CPU, Adreno 205 GPU, and 4.3-inch display with 1280 x 720 resolution. Interestingly enough, the phone is rumored to require a micro SIM, much like the iPhone 4. [via XperiaBlog]
  • US Cellular launched two new Android devices for its prepaid lineup, the Samsung Gem and HTC Merge. The Gem offers a 3.2-inch WVGA display, 800MHz CPU, and Android 2.2 for $140, while the Merge is a global-capable QWERTY slider with a 3.8-inch display, Android 2.2, and more for $300. [via US Cellular]
  • Immediately following Google's acquisition of Motorola, discussion centered around the possibility of the latter company becoming the preferred OEM for Android -- a privilege that would, in theory, include designing and producing the next Nexus. Andy Rubin, the head honcho for the open-source OS, put such rumors to bed by offering more insight on the approval process for upcoming Nexus phones, and insisted that HelloMoto will continue to be treated the same as every other OEM; it will have to bid for the job just like every other company does. [via AndroidCentral]
  • The Huawei Blaze, a budget Android handset that runs on Gingerbread, may arrive in the UK as early as September. The Blaze would mark the first time we've seen the company offer a phone under its own branding in the UK. [via CNet]
  • Shocked to hear the Kyocera Echo isn't selling as well as the company had hoped? Yeah, neither are we. Nonetheless, in the hopes of sparking sales, it's started offering twelve premium games for free to the first 10,000 downloads as part of its "summer of free apps" campaign. Good luck with that. [via Electronista]
  • With all of the buzz rightfully centered around Nokia and its quest for Windows Phone dominance, how bright does Vertu's future look? If Eldar Murtazin is to believed, Espoo's luxury phone branch will also be on the receiving end of WP7 devices. The main difference with Vertu's version compared to the rest of Nokia's lineup? It'll most likely be covered with gold and diamonds. [via WMPowerUser]
  • The Samsung Galaxy Q, another name for the Gravity Smart, is now available on Rogers. The device is geared toward the lower end, so it may not be the most lustworthy letter in the Samsung Galaxy alphabet. [via MobileSyrup]

Mobile Miscellany: week of August 15, 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 20 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dual-screeneldar murtazinEldarMurtazinericssongalaxy qGalaxyQgravity smartGravitySmarthtchtc mergeHtcMergehuaweihuawei blazehuawei ukHuaweiBlazeHuaweiUkkyocerakyocera echoKyoceraEcholuxurymangomicrosoftmiscmiscellaneousmiscellanymmmobilemobile miscellanyMobileMiscellanymobilepostmininokianokia vertuNokiaVertunozumiprepaidrogerssamsungsamsung galaxy qsamsung gemsamsung gravity smartSamsungGalaxyQSamsungGemSamsungGravitySmartsony ericssonsony ericsson nozumiSonyEricssonSonyEricssonNozumisprintt-mobileUS CellularUsCellularvertuvodafonevodafone 555vodafone ukVodafone555VodafoneUkwindows phone 7windows phone 7.5windows phone mangoWindowsPhone7WindowsPhone7.5WindowsPhoneMangowp7Sat, 20 Aug 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia pulls out of Japan: once more, with feeling]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/nokia-pulls-out-of-japan-once-again-nobody-notices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/nokia-pulls-out-of-japan-once-again-nobody-notices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/nokia-pulls-out-of-japan-once-again-nobody-notices/#comments Nokia pulls out of Japan, once again, nobody notices Okay, we've played this game before, but that was almost three years ago. This time, Nokia's really leaving Japan, and they're taking their fancy luxury phones with them. Actually, Nokia's high-end Vertu phones were all it had left in the land of the rising sun, and even those were only readily available in Tokyo's Shibuya and Ginza districts -- so out of Japan by the end of July? No problem. The phones may be gone by August, but the Finnish firm will retain offices in Tokyo through the end of the year to manage refunds, tidy up, and bid farewell to the robot loving maidens of Tokyo's commercial district.

Nokia pulls out of Japan: once more, with feeling originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JapanJapaneseJapanese hardware salesJapaneseHardwareSalesNokiaNokia JapanNokia VertuNokiaJapanNokiaVertuVertuFri, 01 Jul 2011 19:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Signature Precious is awash in sea of sapphire...and regret (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/21/vertu-signature-precious-is-awash-in-sea-of-sapphire-and-regre/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/21/vertu-signature-precious-is-awash-in-sea-of-sapphire-and-regre/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/21/vertu-signature-precious-is-awash-in-sea-of-sapphire-and-regre/#comments It may not feature GPS, an accelerometer, or even a camera, but if you've run out of disposable items to encrust with jewels, then Vertu's Precious -- the latest revision to its aging Signature lineup -- may be the mobile phone for you. While its basic array of quadband GSM, 2100 / 850 MHz 3G, Bluetooth and WiFi may seem a touch modest, varieties come slathered in platinum, three types of gold (yellow, white and red), leather, ceramic, and enough jewels to make Her Majesty blush. Its face, known as the "sea of sapphire," is mostly obscured (save for the OLED display), but you high rollers can take comfort knowing it spent more than two weeks in a 2000°C oven to appease your discerning taste. Also hidden are 4.75 carats of ruby bearings, which are said to give the keys a frictionless, satisfying click. The ring tones are exclusive compositions by Dario Marianelli and performed by the London Symphony Orchestra -- though we were bigger fans before they sold out. For a quick glimpse of how the Precious comes together gem by gem, just follow the break. There's no word on pricing or availability, but if you're considering putting up your first born as collateral, you might want to reconsider this cringe-worthy creation.

[Thanks, Radi]

Continue reading Vertu Signature Precious is awash in sea of sapphire...and regret (video)

Vertu Signature Precious is awash in sea of sapphire...and regret (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gbluetoothdiamonddiamondsexpensivegaudygoldleatherluxurymobilenokiaoledplatinumpreciouspremiums40sapphireseries 40Series40signaturesignature preciousSignaturePreciousvertuVertu SignatureVertuSignaturewifiTue, 21 Jun 2011 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Ascent Ti Ferrari is a celebration of extreme self-indulgence]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/13/vertu-ascent-ti-ferrari-is-a-celebration-of-extreme-self-indulge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/13/vertu-ascent-ti-ferrari-is-a-celebration-of-extreme-self-indulge/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/13/vertu-ascent-ti-ferrari-is-a-celebration-of-extreme-self-indulge/#comments
International jet-set elite, your new phone is here! That's right, Vertu and Ferrari have teamed up yet again to produce the phone that serves two important purposes: showing the world that you own a Ferrari, and showing the world that you don't need a phone that does much besides receiving calls from your accountant. Essentially the recently announced Ascent refresh, this bad boy features a 2-inch QVGA sapphire crystal display and quadband 3G. The case itself is constructed from forged titanium with a matte black PVD finish and the same hand stitched leather as the interior of the car it's inspired by. But you better be fast! Only 2,011 will be made. (Get it?) Hit the source link to order three or four for yourself.

[Thanks, James]

Vertu Ascent Ti Ferrari is a celebration of extreme self-indulgence originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascentascent 2011ascent ti ferrariAscent2011AscentTiFerraricandybarcellphoneexpensiveferrariluxuryphonevertuvertu ascentVertuAscentThu, 13 Jan 2011 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[How much will a gold Vertu Constellation Quest set you back? About $27K, turns out]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/how-much-will-a-gold-vertu-constellation-quest-set-you-back-abo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/how-much-will-a-gold-vertu-constellation-quest-set-you-back-abo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/how-much-will-a-gold-vertu-constellation-quest-set-you-back-abo/#comments Feeling that Constellation Quest, but think it'd look a little better in brilliant yellow? Break open that piggy bank. Oh, and while you're at it, break open several dozen more piggy banks... and maybe even a real bank or two. We're hearing that the world's Vertu boutiques will be selling a yellow gold version of the Symbian-powered work of art for a cool €19,500 including VAT, which works out to about $27,000. Sure, that can buy a car -- but you already own the fleet of Bentleys and Bugattis, so let's be honest, another car would seem a bit excessive.

[Thanks, anonymous tipster]

How much will a gold Vertu Constellation Quest set you back? About $27K, turns out originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>constellation questConstellationQuestgoldsymbianvertuyellow goldYellowGoldTue, 19 Oct 2010 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Constellation Quest shows up at the FCC, running Symbian and looking pleasantly outrageous]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/vertu-constellation-quest-shows-up-at-the-fcc-running-symbian-a/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/vertu-constellation-quest-shows-up-at-the-fcc-running-symbian-a/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/19/vertu-constellation-quest-shows-up-at-the-fcc-running-symbian-a/#comments
 Ah, Vertu, where would we be without you? Richer, to be sure, but so very bored. Vertu's QWERTY-packing Constellation Quest has just gotten the FCC's stamp of approval, and in addition to the typical beauty shots the FCC includes, there's also a detailed manual that shows the phone to be running some heavily skinned version of Symbian. The phone has HSDPA data and WiFi, and Vertu is even packing along a 32GB microSD card. There's still plenty we don't know about the phone, like when it will hit stores and how many arms and legs it will cost, but for now we're just happy to have "cray Uncle Vertu" around for the party.

Gallery: Vertu Constellation Quest shows up at the FCC

Vertu Constellation Quest shows up at the FCC, running Symbian and looking pleasantly outrageous originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>constellationconstellation questConstellationQuestfccquestqwertysymbianvertuvertu constellation questVertuConstellationQuestTue, 19 Oct 2010 11:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Constellation Quest 'coming soon,' finally puts QWERTY in your Hermès handbag]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/11/vertu-constellation-quest-coming-soon-finally-puts-qwerty-in/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/11/vertu-constellation-quest-coming-soon-finally-puts-qwerty-in/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/11/vertu-constellation-quest-coming-soon-finally-puts-qwerty-in/#comments
 What's been missing from Vertu's lineup so far? Okay, yes, a touchscreen model -- touché -- but what we were really getting at was a version with a full QWERTY keyboard. The company has started sending out emails teasing a new Constellation Quest model, and while you can't make much either from the included picture or from the Flash-based teaser site you're directed to, it's pretty obvious there's QWERTY involved -- perfect for texting in your bids to Christie's, agreeing to a sale price for your summer home in the Hamptons over email, or letting Jeeves know to have the jet fueled and ready while you're still in the back of the Roller some 45 minutes away. Needless to say, we're confident it'll carry on the Vertu tradition of being overpriced and under-capable, but let's be honest: does a billionaire have the time to figure out how to use a smartphone anyhow?

[Thanks, Mudilamus]

Vertu Constellation Quest 'coming soon,' finally puts QWERTY in your Hermès handbag originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 14:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>constellation questConstellationQuestluxuryqwertyteaservertuMon, 11 Oct 2010 14:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Cellphone inventor Marty Cooper says he knew everybody would have one someday]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/10/cellphone-inventor-marty-cooper-says-he-knew-everybody-would-hav/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/10/cellphone-inventor-marty-cooper-says-he-knew-everybody-would-hav/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/10/cellphone-inventor-marty-cooper-says-he-knew-everybody-would-hav/#comments
Marty Cooper may have kept a fairly low profile since inventing the cellphone in the early 1970s, but he has been out in the public eye a bit more recently, and has now given a fairly lengthy interview to CNN in which he ruminates on the invention that quite literally changed the world. Perhaps most notably is that he says he and his team at Motorola always "knew that someday everybody would have a cellphone," but that he found it "hard to imagine that that would happen in my lifetime." Of course, he was also once again asked about his current cellphone, and surprisingly revealed that he's actually been trying out a Vertu recently. Hey, you've earned it, Marty.

[Thanks, Jeff]

Cellphone inventor Marty Cooper says he knew everybody would have one someday originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 Jul 2010 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphone inventorCellphoneInventorcooperinventormartin cooperMartinCoopermarty cooperMartyCoopervertuSat, 10 Jul 2010 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Ascent 2010: same pretension, new specs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/vertu-ascent-2010-same-pretension-new-specs/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/vertu-ascent-2010-same-pretension-new-specs/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/10/vertu-ascent-2010-same-pretension-new-specs/#comments Vertu's not big on press releases, so you'll have to forgive us for missing this a few weeks back -- but it seems that Nokia's little outpost of opulent, over-the-top luxury has just released an updated version of its time-tested Ascent range. The so-called Ascent 2010 features a 5 megapixel camera (up from the Ascent Ti's 3), 8GB or 32GB of on-board storage depending on the version (up from 4GB), and quadband 3G. It also has AGPS with preloaded maps (Vertu's carefully avoiding the plebeian Ovi Maps branding here, but we'd imagine it's more or less the same thing), a 2-inch QVGA sapphire crystal display, and a sweet chronograph display (pictured) that undoubtedly makes the phone worth every one of the thousands of dollars you shell out for it. You can pick it up now in your choice of aluminum or titanium bodies with a variety of colored leather accents from luxury retailers around the globe -- and don't forget to pack your checkbook before you hop in the Roller and head down there, obviously.

Vertu Ascent 2010: same pretension, new specs originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 May 2010 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascentascent 2010Ascent2010candybarluxurymobilevertuMon, 10 May 2010 19:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Constellation Ayxta gets unboxed and admired]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/06/vertu-constellation-ayxta-gets-unboxed-and-admired/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/06/vertu-constellation-ayxta-gets-unboxed-and-admired/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/06/vertu-constellation-ayxta-gets-unboxed-and-admired/#comments Overkill, thy name is Vertu. Nokia's luxury handset division has rarely gotten much love on these pages, but that's mostly to do with the excessive use of "high end" materials on its phones and zeroes in its prices. Both are present and accounted for here, with the stainless steel and leather-bound Constellation Ayxta starting at somewhere around $7,500. Still, we retain a curiosity to see such exclusive devices in the glaring lights of reality, and Gear Diary has treated us to just such a treat. The handset before you can crank out 6 hours of talk time over GSM or 300 hours of standby, navigate preloaded maps over GPS, or hook you up to an instant Concierge service if you don't feel like doing the work yourself. And why should you? Mosey on over to the source for the full unboxing gallery.

Vertu Constellation Ayxta gets unboxed and admired originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 00:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ayxtaclamshellconstellationconstellation ayxtaConstellationAyxtaexpensiveextravagantfeaturephoneflip phoneFlipPhoneluxuriousluxuryrichvertuvertu ayxtavertu constellationVertu Constellation AyxtaVertuAyxtaVertuConstellationVertuConstellationAyxtaTue, 06 Apr 2010 00:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu reminds us it's still alive with million-Yen phones, still tasteless as ever]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/vertu-reminds-us-its-still-alive-with-million-yen-phones-still/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/vertu-reminds-us-its-still-alive-with-million-yen-phones-still/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/vertu-reminds-us-its-still-alive-with-million-yen-phones-still/#comments What's a distinguished person of taste and refinement to do when smartphones nowadays are all so bulky and, well, ubiquitous? He or she should go take a look at Vertu's store, of course, which has today been populated for the first time with a new, even more exclusive Signature collection, composed of four models -- one for each season. There's a load of talk about delicate hand-crafting and latest technology with these, but the truth of the matter is that you'll be buying one solely for the purpose of puling it out of your carefully pressed, kerchiefed Armani suit in the hope of impressing any and all nearby members of the opposite sex. What this phone will then say, nay, scream, about you is that you have the money to buy things that are neither functional nor physically appealing -- the surest way to signal wealth and prestige. How much money? Try a million Yen for each handset, which roughly translates to $10,830.

Update: Our sage readers have noted a failure in our machine-translated pricing. The handsets in fact cost 20 million Yen a piece, which equates to $216,600. So sorry to have misled you if you were heading off to the bank to get that 10 grand.

Gallery: Vertu Daigo, Nishiki Akira, Kikusui, and Southern handsets

Vertu reminds us it's still alive with million-Yen phones, still tasteless as ever originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daigoexclusiveexpensiveextravaganceextravagantjapankikusuilimited editionLimitedEditionluxurynishiki akiraNishikiAkiraphonerichseasonssouthernspecial editionSpecialEditionvertuFri, 26 Mar 2010 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Ascent X dazzles FCC with its expert craftsmanship, supple leather]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/22/vertu-ascent-x-dazzles-fcc-with-its-expert-craftsmanship-supple/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/22/vertu-ascent-x-dazzles-fcc-with-its-expert-craftsmanship-supple/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/22/vertu-ascent-x-dazzles-fcc-with-its-expert-craftsmanship-supple/#comments We don't really know the fully story behind this new certification just yet, but it's not every day that Vertu -- Nokia's ultra-luxury brand -- passes a device through the FCC, so we figured we'd broadcast the exciting news anyhow. Other than a line art shot of the back and a few particularly sparse lab documents, your guess is as good as ours, but there's one bit in the RF test results that reads right out of a Tourneau brochure: "The Vertu Model: Ascent X, FCC ID: P7QRM-589V is a mobile phone in the Luxuary [sic] category. It is differentiated from standard models in terms of craftsmanship/materials and quality. The model is available in a number of cosmetic finishes, where substituted on a like for like basis, Metal for Metal, RF Neutral/leather and cover materials for the same in a variety of colors and finishes (Mat/polished/color etc)." Metal for metal indeed, Vertu. Interestingly, the phone appears to support quadband HSPA on the 800, 850, 1900, and 2100MHz frequencies -- not something you see every day -- and although we can't find any details on the phone, Vertu's official data configuration service lists an "Ascent X Design" model, so this might very well be it. Start raiding the trust fund, ladies and gentlemen.

Vertu Ascent X dazzles FCC with its expert craftsmanship, supple leather originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascent xascent x designAscentXAscentXDesigncandybarfccluxurymobilevertuMon, 22 Feb 2010 17:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Constellation Ayxta luxo-flip slums it at the FCC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/29/vertu-constellation-ayxta-luxo-flip-slums-it-at-the-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/29/vertu-constellation-ayxta-luxo-flip-slums-it-at-the-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/29/vertu-constellation-ayxta-luxo-flip-slums-it-at-the-fcc/#comments You might think you're hot stuff for carrying around a new Vertu Constellation Ayxta, but this is America, bub -- and your blinged-up Nokia has to kick it at the FCC just like everyone else. Of course, without that fancy always-on-call Concierge service and Vertu Select, all you're really looking at here is a pretty anonymous featurephone wrapped up in high-end garb, but you're not spending your $10,500 on features here -- you're spending it because you're too lazy and rich to buy something good.

Filed under: ,

Vertu Constellation Ayxta luxo-flip slums it at the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>constellation ayxtaConstellationAyxtafalsefccmobilenokiavertuTue, 29 Sep 2009 15:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Constellation Ayxta luxo-flip slums it at the FCC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/29/vertu-constellation-ayxta-luxo-flip-slums-it-at-the-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/29/vertu-constellation-ayxta-luxo-flip-slums-it-at-the-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/29/vertu-constellation-ayxta-luxo-flip-slums-it-at-the-fcc/#comments You might think you're hot stuff for carrying around a new Vertu Constellation Ayxta, but this is America, bub -- and your blinged-up Nokia has to kick it at the FCC just like everyone else. Of course, without that fancy always-on-call Concierge service and Vertu Select, all you're really looking at here is a pretty anonymous featurephone wrapped up in high-end garb, but you're not spending your $10,500 on features here -- you're spending it because you're too lazy and rich to buy something good.

Filed under:

Vertu Constellation Ayxta luxo-flip slums it at the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>constellation ayxtaConstellationAyxtafalsefccnokiavertuTue, 29 Sep 2009 15:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu announces Constellation Ayxta flip phone for the discerning, friendless traveler]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/vertu-announces-constellation-ayxta-flip-phone-for-the-discernin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/vertu-announces-constellation-ayxta-flip-phone-for-the-discernin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/vertu-announces-constellation-ayxta-flip-phone-for-the-discernin/#comments Vertu's not known for making cut rate electronics, so this is probably the closest it'll ever come. The company's just unveiled its latest flip phone, the Constellation Ayxta. The Ayzta is aimed at citizens of the world who are looking for a "high quality product to assist in maintaining their standard of living wherever they may be," -- i.e., lazy people who'd rather throw money at something than figure out what to do on their own on a Friday night in Vienna. We can sympathize -- sort of. To that end, the handset will be kitted with all manner of, including Vertu's own Concierge service which puts you on the line with a customer service representative directly -- no hold required. Users will also get access to Vertu Select -- which, as we said before, will help you out and tell you where all the cool people are in whatever one horse you happen to be in at the moment. It's got 3G and a micros SD slot for up to 8GB of storage, plus a 3.0 megapixel cam with integrated flash (which is always nice), but other than that it's pretty unimpressive. The Constellation Ayxta is available in Europe now, and for a very affordable €4,900 to €6,500 -- somewhere in the neighborhood of $7,000 - $10,500.

[Via T3]

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Vertu announces Constellation Ayxta flip phone for the discerning, friendless traveler originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AyxtacellphonesconstellationConstellation AyxtaConstellationAyxtaflip phoneflip phonesflipphoneFlipPhoneslifestyleluxurymobilevertuFri, 25 Sep 2009 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu announces Constellation Ayxta flip phone for the discerning, friendless traveler]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/vertu-announces-constellation-ayxta-flip-phone-for-the-discernin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/vertu-announces-constellation-ayxta-flip-phone-for-the-discernin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/25/vertu-announces-constellation-ayxta-flip-phone-for-the-discernin/#comments Vertu's not known for making cut rate electronics, so this is probably the closest it'll ever come. The company's just unveiled its latest flip phone, the Constellation Ayxta. The Ayxta is aimed at citizens of the world who are looking for a "high quality product to assist in maintaining their standard of living wherever they may be," -- i.e., lazy people who'd rather throw money at something than figure out what to do on their own on a Friday night in Vienna. We can sympathize -- sort of. To that end, the handset will be kitted with all manner of awesomeness, including Vertu's own Concierge service which puts you on the line with a customer service representative directly -- no hold required. Users will also get access to Vertu Select -- which, as we said before, will help you out and tell you where all the cool people are in whatever one horse town you happen to be in at the moment. It's got 3G and a micros SD slot for up to 8GB of storage, plus a 3.0 megapixel cam with integrated flash (which is always nice), but other than that it's pretty unimpressive. The Constellation Ayxta is available in Europe now, and for a very affordable €4,900 to €6,500 -- somewhere in the neighborhood of $7,000 - $10,500.

[Via T3]

Filed under:

Vertu announces Constellation Ayxta flip phone for the discerning, friendless traveler originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AyxtacellphonesconstellationConstellation AyxtaConstellationAyxtaflip phoneflip phonesflipphoneFlipPhoneslifestyleluxuryvertuFri, 25 Sep 2009 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Constellation F to be Vertu's first clamshell?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/constellation-f-to-be-vertus-first-clamshell/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/constellation-f-to-be-vertus-first-clamshell/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/constellation-f-to-be-vertus-first-clamshell/#commentsSo far, Vertu's stuck to a tried-and-true candybar formula for hawking bejeweled, leather-bound handsets to the extraordinarily rich, but they may be shifting focus just a tad for their next release. mobil.cz seems to have scored a fuzzy little shot and a few specs of what's being billed as the "Constellation F" -- that's "F" as in "fold," which lines up with parent Nokia's off-kilter parlance -- with a 2.4-inch HVGA primary display, global GSM / EDGE and HSPA, 3 megapixel cam with dual LED flash, 8GB of storage, and in all likelihood, more ostrich skin finish options than any phone you've ever owned. The presence of HSPA 850 / 1900 combined with the clamshell form factor would seem to be a very material recognition on Vertu's part that it's selling a good percentage of its four- and five-figure handsets stateside -- flips are historically more popular there than in Europe -- and at $10,000 or more a pop, it shouldn't take too many to make the R&D expense worth their while.

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Constellation F to be Vertu's first clamshell? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 05:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clamshellconstellation fConstellationFedgeflipgsmhsdpahsupahsupa1mobileumtsvertuMon, 21 Sep 2009 05:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Ascent Ti Neon screams 'I'm rich and I watch Saved By The Bell reruns']]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/13/vertu-ascent-ti-neon-screams-im-rich-and-i-watch-saved-by-the/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/13/vertu-ascent-ti-neon-screams-im-rich-and-i-watch-saved-by-the/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/13/vertu-ascent-ti-neon-screams-im-rich-and-i-watch-saved-by-the/#comments Variants of existing Vertu models are a dime a dozen. Actually, come to think of it, they're the exact opposite of "a dime a dozen," but we digress -- the point is that we don't really get too worked up these days when Nokia's luxury brand decides to refinish one of its hilariously expensive models in another shade of ostrich hide. There are a few key differences with the new Ascent Ti Neon, though: one, they've actually reshaped it to better fit in a purse; two, they've changed out the leather bits for rubber; and three, it's neon, for goodness' sake. Despite the revised shape, the phone is exactly the same on the inside as any other Ascent Ti already on the market, which means euro 3G, a 3 megapixel cam, and 4GB of storage. It'll all go for the bargain basement price of £6,000 (about $9,900) when it hits in October.

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Vertu Ascent Ti Neon screams 'I'm rich and I watch Saved By The Bell reruns' originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 08:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascent tiascent ti neonAscentTiAscentTiNeoncandybaredgegsmluxurymobileneonumtsvertuThu, 13 Aug 2009 08:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu proves carbon fiber doesn't have to be functional with latest Ascent Ti]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/vertu-proves-carbon-fiber-doesnt-have-to-be-functional-with-lat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/vertu-proves-carbon-fiber-doesnt-have-to-be-functional-with-lat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/vertu-proves-carbon-fiber-doesnt-have-to-be-functional-with-lat/#commentsCarbon fiber: a highly-engineered material prized the world over for its overwhelming strength without sacrificing weight, used in some of the world's most mission-critical machines. Vertu's Ascent Ti Carbon Fibre Edition, however, decidedly doesn't qualify as such a use -- but that's not stopping the luxury handset division of Nokia from touting the new model's been "repeatedly tested to ensure the optimum amount of fibres and resin and processed together to achieve a flawless uniform look on both the flat and curved parts." It's available next month with your choice of carbon, aluminum, or copper grips, but the term "available" might be a stretch for most of us considering that pricing is only being provided "upon request" -- and we all know what that means. [Warning: PDF link]

[Via Unwired View]

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Vertu proves carbon fiber doesn't have to be functional with latest Ascent Ti originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 21:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascentascent tiascent ti carbon fibreAscentTiAscentTiCarbonFibrecarbon fiberCarbonFiberedgegsmluxurymobileumtsvertuMon, 20 Jul 2009 21:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu's BH-1V Bluetooth headset gets FCC approval, leaves $100 tip]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/13/vertus-bh-1v-bluetooth-headset-gets-fcc-approval-leaves-100-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/13/vertus-bh-1v-bluetooth-headset-gets-fcc-approval-leaves-100-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/13/vertus-bh-1v-bluetooth-headset-gets-fcc-approval-leaves-100-t/#comments
The Vertu Aerius never really did Nokia's luxury marque justice -- casual passers-by would stop, point, and laugh at the overpriced Jabra JX10 masquerading as a meticulously hand-built bauble, and as we all know, disgustingly wealthy people have egos far too fragile for that kind of mockery. We have renewed faith today, though, that Vertu's hard at work making its own Bluetooth headset more befitting a brand associated with gelded, bedazzled serpents thanks to an FCC approval for a model BH-1V. Yeah, that's right, that'd be "V" as in "Vertu," so you know this thing is gonna be awesome. Who knows -- it could even be a giant letter "V" encrusted in diamonds, in which case our life would be complete and we could stop writing about technology altogether.

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Vertu's BH-1V Bluetooth headset gets FCC approval, leaves $100 tip originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbh-1vbluetoothheadsetmobilevertuSat, 13 Jun 2009 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu's Ascent Ti Damascus Steel makes being wealthy slightly more stylish]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/11/vertus-ascent-ti-damascus-steel-makes-being-wealthy-slightly-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/11/vertus-ascent-ti-damascus-steel-makes-being-wealthy-slightly-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/11/vertus-ascent-ti-damascus-steel-makes-being-wealthy-slightly-mo/#comments
Stainless steel's great, but there's a very simple problem with the alloy that's plagued mankind for hundreds of years: it doesn't have any pattern on it. Happily, that's easily solved with a quick trip to Vertu's British headquarters, where master craftsmen are hard at work hand-carving designs into exactly 100 copies of the company's new Ascent Ti Damascus Steel -- just the latest in a long line of five-figure handsets with two-figure functionality. Yes, true, the Ascent Ti series features 3G, but even that isn't enough to justify the kidneys and other organs you'll have to sell (or the pittance you'll have to withdraw from the trust fund, depending on your lifestyle) to become the proud owner of one of these. Is it seriously time to upgrade the Ferrari version already?

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Vertu's Ascent Ti Damascus Steel makes being wealthy slightly more stylish originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ascent tiAscentTicandybardamascusdamascus steelDamascusSteeledgegsmluxurymobileumtsvertuThu, 11 Jun 2009 08:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu opens retail location in Tokyo's Ginza district ]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/vertu-opens-retail-location-in-tokyos-ginza-district/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/vertu-opens-retail-location-in-tokyos-ginza-district/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/vertu-opens-retail-location-in-tokyos-ginza-district/#comments
We already knew Vertu was planning to open wide to Tokyo's Ginza district in late February, and apparently it decided to follow through despite an economy that's apt to slow sales of its luxury handsets dramatically. At any rate, the spot is a must-see even for tourists with a savings account that couldn't buy the "8" key of a Constellation Pure, so be sure to freshen up and drop by if you find yourself in the city. Oh, and be sure to ask the reps on hand if any of Vertu's phones can load up the full version of the company's own website without struggling -- we get the feeling the reaction will be priceless.

[Via RCRWireless]

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Vertu opens retail location in Tokyo's Ginza district originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 15 Mar 2009 06:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyhigh-endjapanluxurymobileretailstorevertuSun, 15 Mar 2009 06:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu's Constellation Pure series is like every other Constellation: drab and overpriced]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/20/vertus-constellation-pure-series-is-like-every-other-constellat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/20/vertus-constellation-pure-series-is-like-every-other-constellat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/20/vertus-constellation-pure-series-is-like-every-other-constellat/#comments

Seriously Vertu -- we have zero qualms with you charging €6,800 ($8,574) for a handset, but could you at least work in a little innovation next time? At first glance, the new Constellation Pure lineup looks like every other Constellation ever produced by the luxury phone maker, and it's not until you read that they're built from steel, leather and ceramics that you realize something's different. The set is expected to hit the market soon in white, black and silver, each of which will be limited to 2,500 units. We hear these things aren't half bad at making calls, either, but you know it's that iconic "V" logo you're really dropping the Euros for.

[Via Sybarites]

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Vertu's Constellation Pure series is like every other Constellation: drab and overpriced originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphoneConstellationedgegsmhigh-endluxurymobilenokiavertuFri, 20 Feb 2009 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu's Constellation Pure series is like every other Constellation: drab and overpriced]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/20/vertus-constellation-pure-series-is-like-every-other-constellat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/20/vertus-constellation-pure-series-is-like-every-other-constellat/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/20/vertus-constellation-pure-series-is-like-every-other-constellat/#comments

Seriously Vertu -- we have zero qualms with you charging €6,800 ($8,574) for a handset, but could you at least work in a little innovation next time? At first glance, the new Constellation Pure lineup looks like every other Constellation ever produced by the luxury phone maker, and it's not until you read that they're built from steel, leather and ceramics that you realize something's different. The set is expected to hit the market soon in white, black and silver, each of which will be limited to 2,500 units. We hear these things aren't half bad at making calls, either, but you know it's that iconic "V" logo you're really dropping the Euros for.

[Via Sybarites]

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Vertu's Constellation Pure series is like every other Constellation: drab and overpriced originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphoneConstellationhigh-endluxurynokiavertuFri, 20 Feb 2009 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu's overpriced Signature S Design gets hands-on treatment]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/28/vertus-overpriced-signature-s-design-gets-hands-on-treatment/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/28/vertus-overpriced-signature-s-design-gets-hands-on-treatment/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/28/vertus-overpriced-signature-s-design-gets-hands-on-treatment/#comments
We won't lie -- we've always been harsh on Vertu handsets. As a rule, they're technologically inferior to handsets that are a twelfth the price, and honestly, they're usually pretty unsightly. But you know, Boy Genius Report's hands-on experience with the stainless steel Signature S Design really has us back on the fence. Sure, it's the price of a decent subcompact, but man, it's as sleek as sleek could ever hope to be. Have a look in the read link for a hands-on gallery that's sure to make you envious -- whether you're willing to admit it or not.

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Vertu's overpriced Signature S Design gets hands-on treatment originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hands-onhigh-endluxurymobilepicspicturesSignatureSignature SSignatureSvertuWed, 28 Jan 2009 07:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu's overpriced Signature S Design gets hands-on treatment]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/28/vertus-overpriced-signature-s-design-gets-hands-on-treatment/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/28/vertus-overpriced-signature-s-design-gets-hands-on-treatment/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/28/vertus-overpriced-signature-s-design-gets-hands-on-treatment/#comments
We won't lie -- we've always been harsh on Vertu handsets. As a rule, they're technologically inferior to handsets that are a twelfth the price, and honestly, they're usually pretty unsightly. But you know, Boy Genius Report's hands-on experience with the stainless steel Signature S Design really has us back on the fence. Sure, it's the price of a decent subcompact, but man, it's as sleek as sleek could ever hope to be. Have a look in the read link for a hands-on gallery that's sure to make you envious -- whether you're willing to admit it or not.

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Vertu's overpriced Signature S Design gets hands-on treatment originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 07:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hands-onhigh-endluxurypicspicturesSignatureSignature SSignatureSvertuWed, 28 Jan 2009 07:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu opens tasteful, refined retail location in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/21/vertu-opens-tasteful-refined-retail-store-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/21/vertu-opens-tasteful-refined-retail-store-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/21/vertu-opens-tasteful-refined-retail-store-in-japan/#comments
It's no secret that Vertu's delicate, understated design and real commitment to value for your hard-earned dollar have won the brand lots of fans here at Engadget -- and we're still kicking ourselves for being too busy to check out the company's store in Las Vegas during CES. Our Japanese readers are in luck, however -- come February 19, people in Ginza will have a Vertu store to call their own. Sure the thing looks a little less gaudy than we would have imagined -- an eighteen foot tall, solid gold, fire-breathing Dragon would have been nice -- but you can't really argue with a place that sets aside an entire floor for each handset line it carries (including Ferrari, Ascent and Signature). If you get a chance to visit, let us know what you think! More pics after the break.

Continue reading Vertu opens tasteful, refined retail location in Japan

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Vertu opens tasteful, refined retail location in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ginzajapanmobileretailvertuvertu ascentvertu ferrarivertu signaturevertu signature dragonvertu storeVertuAscentVertuFerrariVertuSignatureVertuSignatureDragonVertuStoreWed, 21 Jan 2009 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu opens tasteful, refined retail location in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/21/vertu-opens-tasteful-refined-retail-store-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/21/vertu-opens-tasteful-refined-retail-store-in-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/21/vertu-opens-tasteful-refined-retail-store-in-japan/#comments
It's no secret that Vertu's delicate, understated design and real commitment to value for your hard-earned dollar have won the brand lots of fans here at Engadget -- and we're still kicking ourselves for being too busy to check out the company's store in Las Vegas during CES. Our Japanese readers are in luck, however -- come February 19, people in Ginza will have a Vertu store to call their own. Sure the thing looks a little less gaudy than we would have imagined -- an eighteen foot tall, solid gold, fire-breathing Dragon would have been nice -- but you can't really argue with a place that sets aside an entire floor for each handset line it carries (including Ferrari, Ascent and Signature). If you get a chance to visit, let us know what you think! More pics after the break.

Continue reading Vertu opens tasteful, refined retail location in Japan

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Vertu opens tasteful, refined retail location in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ginzajapanretailvertuvertu ascentvertu ferrarivertu signaturevertu signature dragonvertu storeVertuAscentVertuFerrariVertuSignatureVertuSignatureDragonVertuStoreWed, 21 Jan 2009 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Signature Dragon handset puts the 'ugh' in 'luxury']]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/vertu-signature-dragon-handset-puts-the-ugh-in-luxury/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/vertu-signature-dragon-handset-puts-the-ugh-in-luxury/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/vertu-signature-dragon-handset-puts-the-ugh-in-luxury/#comments
It looks like Vertu isn't resting on its laurels -- a mere two years after snatching the "world's ugliest phone title" with its Signature Cobra, the company's back with the Signature Dragon. What can we say about this one? Not much, seeing as how the thing isn't even listed on the company's website. Even so, since the Cobra retailed for over a quarter of a million bucks we're guessing this new handset ain't gonna be cheap. Feel free to sneak a peek at the thing in the Vertu store in Las Vegas's Wynn Hotel when you hit the town for CES. As an aside, when researching this post we came across an erotic French novel titled Dragon de Vertu which is on sale for about $30. Even if you don't read French, we still think it'd be a better use of your hard earned cash -- and if you do read French, please underline the good parts before you pass it on to us.

Read: Vertu to display its luxury handset 'Vertu Signature Dragon'
Read: Dragon de Vertu by Francis Tigrone

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Vertu Signature Dragon handset puts the 'ugh' in 'luxury' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragonDragon de VertuDragonDeVertufashionFrancis TigroneLas Vegasluxurymobilesignature dragonvertuWynn HotelWed, 24 Dec 2008 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Vertu Signature Dragon handset puts the 'ugh' in 'luxury']]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/vertu-signature-dragon-handset-puts-the-ugh-in-luxury/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/vertu-signature-dragon-handset-puts-the-ugh-in-luxury/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/vertu-signature-dragon-handset-puts-the-ugh-in-luxury/#comments
It looks like Vertu isn't resting on its laurels -- a mere two years after snatching the "world's ugliest phone title" with its Signature Cobra, the company's back with the Signature Dragon. What can we say about this one? Not much, seeing as how the thing isn't even listed on the company's website. Even so, since the Cobra retailed for over a quarter of a million bucks we're guessing this new handset ain't gonna be cheap. Feel free to sneak a peek at the thing in the Vertu store in Las Vegas's Wynn Hotel when you hit the town for CES. As an aside, when researching this post we came across an erotic French novel titled Dragon de Vertu which is on sale for about $30. Even if you don't read French, we still think it'd be a better use of your hard earned cash -- and if you do read French, please underline the good parts before you pass it on to us.

Read: Vertu to display its luxury handset 'Vertu Signature Dragon'
Read: Dragon de Vertu by Francis Tigrone

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Vertu Signature Dragon handset puts the 'ugh' in 'luxury' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragonDragon de VertuDragonDeVertufashionFrancis TigroneLas Vegasluxurysignature dragonvertuWynn HotelWed, 24 Dec 2008 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[NTT DoCoMo and Vertu team up on Vertu Club MVNO]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/ntt-docomo-and-vertu-team-up-on-vertu-club-mvno/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/ntt-docomo-and-vertu-team-up-on-vertu-club-mvno/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/ntt-docomo-and-vertu-team-up-on-vertu-club-mvno/#comments
Vertu's been eying the Japanese market for months on end now, but we had no idea it would really go diving in headfirst like this. Okay, so we actually did, but we did our best to just blot it out for fear of it coming true. Now, the deed has been done, and Vertu has selected NTT DoCoMo to "provide communication services to Vertu customers." The MVNO deal will launch in Q2 2009, and it'll flatteringly be called Vertu Club. Details of the partnership have yet to be disclosed, but we are told that Vertu will open its very first store in Japan (Ginza Flagship Store) in February. Hey, if Softbank can make it in the ultra high-end market, why can't these guys? [Warning: PDF read link]

[Via UnwiredView]

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NTT DoCoMo and Vertu team up on Vertu Club MVNO originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>docomojapanluxurymobileMVNOmvnosNTTNTT DocomoNttDocomovertuvertu clubVertuClubWed, 10 Dec 2008 18:38:00 EST<![CDATA[The solid gold Vertu Boucheron 150 makes us hate humanity ]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/the-solid-gold-vertu-boucheron-150-makes-us-hate-humanity/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/the-solid-gold-vertu-boucheron-150-makes-us-hate-humanity/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/the-solid-gold-vertu-boucheron-150-makes-us-hate-humanity/#comments
You know how you can tell that this is a "luxury" phone? It looks like it was shaped by an overly taut sphincter. The Vertu Boucheron 150 is made from "solid gold" and is meant to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Boucheron jewelry house in Paris. According to the designer, it took 1,000 hours to cut into shape, 700 hours to hand polish, and more than 500 hours to build. Funny, it only took us a split-second to wretch. Do the Japanese really prefer these Vertu designs from Nokia over the E71? No price or any real detail announced, just a picture of the enormous packing box after the break.

[Via Unwired View, thanks Robin of L.]

Continue reading The solid gold Vertu Boucheron 150 makes us hate humanity

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The solid gold Vertu Boucheron 150 makes us hate humanity originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boucheronboucheron 150Boucheron150luxurymobilenokiavertuWed, 10 Dec 2008 04:32:00 EST<![CDATA[The solid gold Vertu Boucheron 150 makes us hate humanity ]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/the-solid-gold-vertu-boucheron-150-makes-us-hate-humanity/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/the-solid-gold-vertu-boucheron-150-makes-us-hate-humanity/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/10/the-solid-gold-vertu-boucheron-150-makes-us-hate-humanity/#comments
You know how you can tell that this is a "luxury" phone? It looks like it was shaped by an overly taut sphincter. The Vertu Boucheron 150 is made from "solid gold" and is meant to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Boucheron jewelry house in Paris. According to the designer, it took 1,000 hours to cut into shape, 700 hours to hand polish, and more than 500 hours to build. Funny, it only took us a split-second to wretch. Do the Japanese really prefer these Vertu designs from Nokia over the E71? No price or any real detail announced, just a picture of the enormous packing box after the break.

[Via Unwired View, thanks Robin of L.]

Continue reading The solid gold Vertu Boucheron 150 makes us hate humanity

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The solid gold Vertu Boucheron 150 makes us hate humanity originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boucheronboucheron 150Boucheron150luxurynokiavertuWed, 10 Dec 2008 04:32:00 EST