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Archos intros Xenon 80 8-inch tablet, delivers Jelly Bean and 3G for $200
Just in case that recently announced ChefPad wasn't suited to your tastes, Archos is now introducing a smaller, not-so-kitchen-friendly Android tablet, the Xenon 80. Naturally, the main highlight of this 8-inch slate is that it boasts 3G capabilities, and the company's quick to point out it's SIM-unlocked. Archos also endowed the Xenon 80 with some decent specs, including a vanilla flavor of Google's Jelly Bean, an unnamed Qualcomm quad-core CPU, a 1,024 x 768 IPS display and 4GB of internal storage (expandable to 64GB by way of a microSD slot). And as with other recent Archos tablets, the Xenon 80 carries the proper Google Play credentials, making it easy for you to have access to all your favorite apps. It'll cost a mere $200 when it hits shelves in June, which is on par with competing offerings. Now, whether it's worth taking the plunge, well, you'll have to make that call for yourself.%Gallery-188606%
Apple takes fifth spot in Chinese smartphone market
In the world's largest smartphone market -- China -- Apple's share rose in the first quarter of 2013 to make the company the fifth largest vendor. Numbers from research firm Canalys show that the release of the iPhone 5 and price cuts on older iPhone models drove growth of Apple's sales. Apple's share of the huge smartphone market pie is important to its bottom line -- while 27 million smartphones were shipped in the US during the first quarter, the number in China was a huge 82 million. That share is just 8 percent, well behind Samsung's 20 percent share, but is made up of much more expensive phones. Phones shipped by number two through four vendors Yulong Computer Telecommunication Scientific, Huawei and Lenovo are usually low-cost models ranging in price from just 400 yuan to 700 yuan (US$64 to $114). Canalys analyst Nicole Peng noted that China Mobile, the largest carrier in the country with 726 million subscribers, has helped drive the large sales volume by heavy promotion of new phones that work on its 3G network. Peng says that Apple will need to release a less expensive version of the iPhone to grab more market share in China. The iPhone 5 starts at 5,288 yuan ($863) and an 8 GB iPhone 4 goes for 3,088 yuan ($504). Peng notes that a 2000 yuan ($323) model would appeal to customers who want an Apple product, but just can't afford the higher price tag. China's smartphone shipments rose 156 percent year over year in the first quarter, making the country a key market for Apple and other smartphone manufacturers.
North Korea reportedly cuts 3G for tourists, restricts access to long term visitors
It was just a month ago that North Korea started allowing mobile internet access to visitors (while still restricting it from citizens), but now a tour group says that program has ended. First reported by North Korea Tech, a post on the Koryo Group site indicates that tourists can still purchase SIM cards for international calling, but internet access is not available, a return to its policy from January. A recent blog post from the 22nd goes into more detail, explaining that 3G Koryolink access for foreigners "has been restricted to long term visitors/residents of Pyongyang only." With no word from the government on the policy change you'll have to insert your own reasoning, although we imagine Eric Schmidt is not pleased. [Image credit: Jean Lee, Instagram]
Samsung's Galaxy S 4 swoops by the FCC toting LTE, international sensibilities
Sure, the Galaxy S 4 made its grand entrance at Radio City Music Hall today, but now it's had a low-key meet-and-greet with the FCC for government approval. The version offered up to Uncle Sam carries a 850 / 1900 GSM radio, 3G connectivity through 850 / 1900 WCDMA frequencies and support for LTE Band 5. Since AT&T's main LTE squeeze is Band 17, what we're seeing here is an international version of Samsung's flagship that can roam portions of Ma Bell's and Magenta's network when it sets foot in the US. Folks waiting for a GS4 outfitted for an American carrier will have to wait 'till at least the end of April, but we'll keep our eyes peeled for such a device visiting the FCC.
Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0 3G arrives at the FCC, remains a really big phone
Not long after we got our hands on the Galaxy Note 8.0 at Mobile World Congress, the 3G global version has finally made its way through the FCC for certification. We already saw the WiFi model come through in January, but this one has those all-important 800/1900 MHz 3G bands that'll have you web browsing with your stylus while you're out and about; as long as you have an activated SIM anyway. As a reminder, the Note 8.0 sports a 1.6GHz Exynos 4 Quad processor, WiFi a/b/g/n radios, 2GB of RAM, Bluetooth 4.0, A-GPS, GLONASS, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean and a 4,600mAh battery. This is certainly not the one that'll be offered by stateside carriers however, as we'll get an LTE variant instead. Still, if you want an eight-inch tablet that also doubles as a phone, its FCC approval takes that dream one step closer to reality. In the meantime, feel free to hit up the documents at the source to suss out the information yourself.
PS Vita 3G price drops to $199 at certain Sony outlets
Just when we had gotten used to the idea that the PS Vita's price drop in Japan would not be followed by a similar one here, Joystiq reports many Sony stores are offering the 3G bundle at a discount. While not all the stores contacted had the lowered $199 price, most of the ones that were still open at this hour did. We're not seeing this price drop reflected in any other stores, and there's no official announcement of any change, which only contributes to the confusion. Different store employees gave different explanations for the change, including a few indicating the model would be discontinued. The online shop still shows both the WiFi and 3G models for $249, so for now all we know is that if you are interested in buying, it would serve you well to look around for the lower price.
Select Sony stores selling PS Vita 3G for $200
A majority of the Sony stores across the US have dropped the price of the 3G-compatible PlayStation Vita, down to $199.97. The base 3G bundle includes the handheld, an 8GB memory card and a voucher for a free PlayStation Network game – if you sign up for data coverage, that is.The image above comes from a Century City store in LA. Save for a couple of stores on the East Coast that had closed once we started hitting the phones, we called each and every Sony store location to confirm. An employee at the Denver location surmised this was a permanent price drop due to a discontinuation of the model and said there was no time frame on the sale in his system, which means Sony can end the sale whenever.The New Jersey and Las Vegas locations also told me the 3G model was being discontinued, while an employee in Seattle said the sale would only last until Sunday. Other locations still had old pricing in their systems and had no idea what I was asking about – and Sony has yet to bring the price down online.Last month, Sony Worldwide Studios head Shuhei Yoshida told Joystiq a price drop for the PS Vita in North America wasn't happening, even though Sony had just announced it would lower the price in Japan.For the full list of eligible stores, head past the break.
Samsung loses UK lawsuit against Apple over 3G data
Samsung hasn't been catching many breaks in its court battles with Apple as of late, and that trend isn't quite over yet. A UK court just tossed out claims that Apple violates three Samsung standards-essential patents relating to 3G data transmission, tentatively leaving the American firm free to sell iPhones and other cellular devices in the country -- as long as other lawsuits don't get in the way. Samsung hasn't determined whether or not it will appeal, but a second try isn't as surefire as it might be elsewhere, not when the Galaxy maker has a less-than-stellar record in winning cases where 3G is involved. We'd just like the whole mess to be over.
Apple wins one against Samsung in Japanese court
The lastest round of fighting between Apple and Samsung goes to the Cupertino Kid. A Japanese court ruled favorably for Apple in a suit filed by Samsung alleging that Apple had misused 3G wireless patents in several versions of the iPhone. As noted by Apple Insider, Samsung's lawsuit in this case goes back to April of 2011, when the Korean electronics giant sought an injunction against the iPhone for unauthorized use of specific data transmission patents. A ruling today found that Samsung doesn't have the right to assert those 3G patents in court. Samsung had also recently made a request to a California federal court seeking documents from the Apple v. Samsung patent trial, hoping to use those documents in discovery for a similar case in Japan. The move was seen by Apple as an attempt by Samsung to sneak around the usual Japanese court procedures, and the US court agreed with the company.
Instagram, Twitter posts begin to flow from North Korean 3G network
This week, tourists (and at least one reporter) visiting North Korea began accessing the web directly from their smartphones, through the country's Koryolink 3G network. Associated Press journalist Jean H. Lee has been tweeting from Pyongyang since Monday, though she didn't get around to detailing the service until yesterday. Her tweet, "Hello world from comms center in #Pyongyang," is believed to be the first to come through the new wireless data service, which can be activated for the princely sum of €75 (about $100). From there, data rates range from €150 for 2GB to €400 for 10 gigs, according to a DailyNK report. (Those tariffs should come as no surprise to DPRK visitors, who often shell out thousands for week-long tours that include meager accommodations and constant monitoring.) The Koryolink network, which was built in cooperation with Egypt's Orascom Telecom, marks a radical shift in policy for North Korea, which also recently began to allow tourists to enter the country with their own cellphones -- previously, visitors were required to hand over the devices upon landing in Pyongyang. With the exception of approved users (certain government officials, we presume), North Korean residents remain offline, however. For those authorized, access may be pricey, but considering that connectivity can provide peace of mind to travelers and their families at home, a data-enabled SIM seems a worthwhile acquisition for anyone visiting one of 3G's famous final frontiers.
Nielsen compares mobile consumers across the globe, details the differences in how we connect
Right in-time with MWC, Nielsen's latest report provides some insight into how folks in different regions are using their mobile devices. On the whole, many of the findings aren't exactly shockers. Among many highlights, owners of smartphones and feature phones don't use their respective devices for the same tasks, while developed areas are more likely to have upwards of 4G connectivity with higher smartphone adoption rates. As you'd might imagine, people in regions with under-developed infrastructure tend to gravitate toward the likes of simpler, less costly feature phones. Diving deeper with some specifics, Nielsen points out that US-based users of smartphones gravitate toward map and video apps, contrasting that those in China are hungrier for info about weather and news. If you'd like to confirm any more of your suspicions about how mobile devices are being used across the globe, you'll find all the details your noggin desires at the source link below.
North Korea to grant mobile internet access to visitors, but not citizens
In just a few days, visitors to North Korea will be able to surf the web from 3G-enabled devices. According to the Associated Press, customers of telecom company Koryolink living in Pyongyang received word that the firm will launch a 3G internet service exclusively for foreigners no later than March 1st. While citizens of North Korea have access to things including MMS, video calls, and a subscription to the state-run newspaper over 3G, a connection to the global internet will remain exclusive to a small, approved slice of the population using broadband. Foreigners will be able to purchase a monthly service plan for use with a USB modem or their very own SIM card. It's hard to say if Eric Schmidt's trip nudged the country and the service provider to change their tune, but in any case we're hoping Señor Schmidt will consider visiting Cuba as well. [Image credit: (stephan), Flickr]
The Daily Roundup for 02.18.2013
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
Scout security system monitors your pad without compromising your feng shui (video)
While home security systems are definitely making strides towards modernization, we haven't seen many that look the part. However, Sandbox Industries' Scout might be the first home protection option that manages to gel with even the most swanky digs. Available in three stylish trims (black, white and wood), this wireless setup uses a base receiver that communicates with its security sensor panels by way of your home's network. Like most home protection systems, Scout offers remote control and monitoring via computer or mobile device, but the big draw here is its aesthetically pleasing equipment and simplified installation process. Set to ship in August, packages start at $120 with additional à la carte purchase options depending on your household's needs. For those of you looking to further secure your bunker, Scout's hardware packs backup batteries in the event of a power outage as well as an optional 3G-powered monitoring service with plans starting at $10 per month. Of course, if you're not feeling such a high-tech setup, you could always place toy cars and Christmas ornaments beneath your doorways and window seals. Hey, it worked for Kevin McCallister.
CE-Oh no he didn't!: Vodafone's Vittorio Colao says 4G is for 'technofreaks'
Prefer the internet to be, um, fast? That puts you outside the norm, according to Vodafone CEO Vittorio Colao. Speaking to investors, he said that he'd visited an EE store to try out 4G LTE speeds for himself and "all I saw [were] technofreaks." As reported by Mobile News, the CEO added that only "early adopters" would notice the difference between LTE and HSPA+ and none of his friends or colleagues have told him "that we need this fast internet." While he may want to start running with a different crowd, EE's already hoisted him on his own petard with a new Twitter campaign -- "EE welcomes technofreaks." See the coverage and image after the fold for more. [Image credit: WikiMedia Commons]
Ditching the iPhone? Planning for 2013
Ever since the iPad mini debuted, I've had a plan brewing at the back of my mind. Sometime in 2013, I'm considering ditching my iPhone, picking up a refurb 1st gen iPad mini 3G (I assume I won't be putting this plan into action until the spring at the earliest), and buying a cheap Tracfone with triple minutes for life. I figure it would save my family a bunch of cash. I'd be dropping my unlimited iPhone data plan, but since I'd also be dropping my voice plan -- a service I barely use, with expensive wasted minutes -- I could basically buy 3 GB/month for less than I'm paying for my voice/data plan combined. Instead of paying $70/month, I could cover my voice needs for $100/year and drop my data to maybe $30/month. Basically, my costs would go from $840-ish per year down to $480-ish per year. What's more, I'd address one of my biggest complaints about the iPhone -- the screen size. The iPad mini's larger screen would work far better for reading on the go. And yet, I hesitate. The honest truth is that I love my iPhone. I love its small portable form factor. I love how I can just put it in a pocket and I'm ready to go. Although I do most things in life with a small backpack, I really really really like how easily the iPhone allows me to grab it and go. I can use Siri when stopped at a light to message, to find directions, to make a note, to add a reminder, and so forth. I love how the iPhone is a single thing, not a pair, and how well it does all the jobs I give it to do. Moving from iPhone to mini means sacrificing that grab and use functionality. But is that functionality worth nearly $400 a year to me and my family? It's not as if I can't do all these things (excluding placing calls and SMS texts) on a mini. It offers all the iOS found on Apple's other devices, including Siri support, a camera system, and so forth. If I'd have to put a price tag on love, my iPhone love would cost about, well, $400. I've omitted the capital costs here since for my job I'd probably be picking up the hardware anyway at some point -- this only assumes that I'd buy a 3G instead of the WiFi that I'd normally purchase. So what do you think? Is this the biggest heresy since Grothaus suggested going Samsung? Or is this a reasonable and sensible direction during tough economic conditions? You tell me. Drop a note into the comments and share your opinion.
Vodafone Sure Signal now plugs directly into the wall, doles out more 3G at once
Femtocells are rarely subtle devices, including Vodafone's earlier Sure Signal models. That's what makes a newly revamped version of the Sure Signal so noteworthy -- it's very nearly unintrusive. The new edition plugs directly into a wall outlet and doesn't occupy more space than a night light, letting it dish out 3G in low-reception areas without becoming a conspicuous part of the landscape. It's also a better pick for offices, or just crowded homes, now that it can handle as many as eight 3G connections at the same time. UK locals who face the unenviable dual problems of cellular dead zones and tight spaces can solve both at once by spending £100 ($161) today.
EE's 4G network to be available in 35 locations by the end of March 2013
Potential 4G adopters in the UK not only need to consider the price of EE's plans, but also the thin coverage currently available. This is slowly being fattened up, however, and today the company has announced that by March 2013, it plans to extend its high-speed network to an additional 17 areas (to make a grand total of 35). Those 17 towns and cities don't include last week's stealthy activations in Derby, Newcastle and Nottingham, or the planned switch-flipping in Belfast, Hull, Maidenhead and Slough before the end of the year. As well as gracing new locations with 4G and bolstering network density, EE is also upgrading its 3G network to support dual-channel HSPA+ (DC-HSPA+ for short). This is expected to be available across 40 percent of EE's network by year's end, and will also be enjoyed by customers signed up with Orange or T-Mobile. So, enough of the suspense -- head past the break for the full list of locales getting 4G early next year.
Broadcom outs Jelly Bean-optimized budget SoC with dual-core ARM processor, HSPA+
Broadcom's just added a new 3G SoC to its resume that promises a solid punch in performance without breaking the bank -- while being optimized for Jelly Bean, to boot. Dubbed BCM21664T, the chip packs a 1.2GHz dual-core ARM Cortex A9 processor accompanied by VideoCore graphics to give it the oomph to run Android 4.2 and support 720p recording and 1080p playback. As for connectivity, the silicon comes loaded with WiFi, Bluetooth and HSPA+, which garners downstream speeds of 21.1Mbps and 5.8Mbps upstream. Support for GPS and even NFC have also been rolled into the SoC. Broadcom claims the hardware is the first of its kind aimed at entry-level smartphones, and if things go the firm's way, the chip will make appearances in budget Android phones when it goes into volume production next year.
Lenovo ThinkPad tab revisits FCC packing 3G radio, no LTE
Though it still lacks an official moniker, Lenovo's so-called Thinkpad tablet (aka the TP00043AEF) is racking up copious frequent flyer miles with yet another journey past the FCC's prying eyes. This time, the Windows 8 slate is packing WCDMA II and V radios, the 3G bands supported by AT&T in the US and Canada's Bell Mobility, but with a notable lack of an LTE band. All that rules out Europe as a possible destination for this particular flavor of the tab, meaning it's likely to end up in Asia or North and South America for mobile data customers who don't need gobs of hustle. As far as we know, it's still the same 10.1-inch tablet with a 1,366 x 768 display, some form of Intel Clover Trail CPU and an 8MP camera, but we've still no idea as to delivery or price. Hopefully we'll have more info soon, but meanwhile, if another of the legion Windows 8 tablets out there doesn't suit you, check the source for all the radiographic minutiae.
