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Rogers turns on Wi-Fi Calling for Business, $10 and up to get started
Canada's Rogers has been offering UMA on a selection of BlackBerry models to end users for some time, but the technology never seems to have fully caught on anywhere in the world -- which is strange, considering how awesome the concept of seamless WiFi-to-cellular call transitions might sound. Both manufacturers (particularly outside RIM) and carriers have approached it very, very cautiously, but here's a positive sign that it'll be around for a while: Rogers has just launched Wi-Fi Calling for Business, essentially a B2B-flavored version of its existing service that lets suits tack on UMA to their business calling plans starting at CAD $10 (about $10) a month. Rogers claims that "a broad array of handsets from the major device manufacturers, including most current BlackBerry device models, are dual mode and support UMA," though we think that might be reaching a bit -- the carrier's official WiFi calling FAQs only list a selection of nine BlackBerry models on the compatibility list. Then again, this is a business-focused feature... so a bunch of BlackBerrys isn't the worst thing in the world, we suppose.
BlackBerry Bold 9780 finally official, hitting T-Mobile on November 17th for $130
After what feels like an eternity of leaks, RIM has finally (finally!) come forward with the first BlackBerry Bold to ship with BlackBerry 6. The Bold 9780 looks exactly as we expected it to (meaning not too far from the 9700 design tree), boasting an optical trackpad, QWERTY keyboard, a WebKit-based browser and a five megapixel camera. You'll also get inbuilt 3G / WiFi, and at least on the T-Mob version, UMA / WiFi calling. Geotagging your images is a breeze courtesy of the integrated GPS module, and RIM's also tossing in 512MB of Flash memory as well as a microSD slot. We're told to expect it from "various carriers around the world beginning in November," with T-Mobile USA confirming that its version will hit on the 17th of next month for $129.99 on a two-year contract.
T-Mobile G2 getting an OTA update to add WiFi calling and tethering?
It almost sounds too good to be true, but apparently some G2s are getting an official (if stealthy) OTA update from T-Mobile that adds the inexplicably withheld Android 2.2 native internet tethering back into the phone, along with the UMA WiFi calling T-Mobile plans to offer on all of its forthcoming Android handsets. What's not to love? Well, so far our G2 hasn't been offered the update, which is, like, totally unfair. Also, if you've been messing around with a "soft root" on your G2, you'll probably want to hold off for now. Still, if this is legit and meant for the masses it's a pretty major score for current and prospective G2 owners: WiFi calling is basically a beautiful dream short of a desirable handset, and of course tethering is becoming a requirement in this Android-age.
Motorola 'Begonia' is T-Mobile's Cliq 2, features WiFi calling?
We've been tossed a few scraps of information in the past few hours on T-Mobile's upcoming Cliq 2 -- codenamed "Begonia" -- and though we don't know much, what we do know is enough to be a little excited about. Here's what we've got: Android 2.2 with Blur Keyboard design is said to be "interesting" -- in a good way -- described as "one solid piece" without any gaps between keys. The Cliq's is pretty decent, and with both the myTouch 3G Slide and G2 in the mix now, they've got a lot to live up to 3G hotspot support, something the G2 will lack at launch WiFi calling, which we've heard a little about recently Word is that the Cliq 2 is slated for a November 1 launch, though it's not clear how it'll be positioned -- if we had to venture a shot-in-the-dark guess, it'd be priced to go head to head with the myTouch 3G Slide. More on this just as soon as we get it! [Thanks, B]
T-Mobile to bundle Wi-Fi Calling app with future Android devices?
Yesterday, we saw that LG's Optimus One might ship with WiFi calling, and that's all well and good, but a new leak suggests the Optimus was just the tip of a UMA iceberg to come. The above picture is one of several allegedly leaked training slides obtained by TmoNews, highlighting a dedicated "Wi-Fi Calling" app that may come pre-installed on upcoming Android devices, one of which just might be that new T-Mobile G2. Before you raid your piggybank in hopes of free VoIP calls, however, know that this app-ified brand of WiFi calling isn't necessarily the seamless switching solution we've wanted all along; that little yellow "limitations" tab reportedly explains that as soon as you leave the WiFi radius, you effectively drop your call.
LG Optimus One headed to T-Mobile with 3G hotspot and WiFi calls?
If the allegedly leaked slide immediately above is the real deal, it looks like the LG Optimus One is destined for T-Mobile, and it's going to get some serious use out of that 802.11 b/g WiFi radio. We knew the quad-band GSM handset was going to have a shot of Froyo on top of some fairly middling specs, but here's an unexpected treat: the Android handset just might be the first Android device with UMA support. If you've already forgotten what that particular acronym means, we don't blame you, as Unlicensed Mobile Access hasn't held the spotlight since the days of HotSpot@Home, but suffice it to say the tech uses a WiFi access point to make free VoIP calls, no cell signal (or minutes) required. It'd be easy to point to this move as a nefarious T-Mobile plot to free up cellular bandwidth a la the femtocell, except it apparently also works the other way, too -- the Optimus One will allegedly let you share that HSDPA 7.2 Mbps connection over WiFi with your thirsty laptop.
Cablevision considering ultra-cheap unlimited cellphone service?
Cable companies have been pushing into wireless with more urgency than ever lately -- take Cox and Comcast, just to name a couple -- and now it seems Cablevision is taking a good, hard look at launching a cellphone service under its Optimum brand. Current service subscribers are being asked if they'd be interested in "unlimited calling, texting, and internet data access" for $29.95 a month, which is ridiculously, mind-numbingly low for such a package if Cablevision is actually capable of delivering. It seems they'll try to bridge the gap by launching the service with a WiFi slant -- presumably using UMA -- falling back to cellular on the road when you're outside the range of one of Optimum's hotspots. They're promising "a variety of smartphone choices that offer features comparable to those offered by iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry," so hey, if the price is right and the service actually works, why not? There's no word on when Optimum might launch this action, but we have a hard time believing many of the people that got the survey actually responded "no." [Thanks, Maikel]
T-Mobile bringing its UMA services to businesses via BlackBerry
Until now, T-Mobile's HotSpot @Home WiFi calling service had strictly been a consumer venture -- but now, it's time to rope the suits in on the fun. Many of the handsets currently in T-Mobile's HotSpot @Home stable aren't exactly prime workplace material, but a few -- T-Mobile's WiFi-enabled BlackBerrys, to be specific -- fit in rather nicely, and it seems that the BlackBerry line is exactly what the carrier will be using to position the service. There'll be a flat rate that applies to get unlimited calling over WiFi (just like consumers pay) , and considering that businessfolk are probably the last remaining niche of ultra-heavy voice users, this could be a power play for T-Mobile that wins over a few of those lucrative corporate accounts. [Via Phone Scoop]
Motorola Morrisson with T-Mobile 3G and UMA hits the FCC
Well well, what's this? Seems a certain Uncle Sam's been poking around the lab with the Android-powered Motorola Morrison, and published his findings to the "World Wide Web." And hey -- are those T-Mobile 3G bands with UMA support we see in these action-packed RF reports? Why yes, they are -- too bad Sam didn't see fit to include any actual pictures of his new toy. Still, we've got a feeling this is one unreleased Motorola we'll be getting our hands on real soon.[Via CellPhoneSignal; thanks William]
Nokia 7510 comes to Rogers' TalkSpot service
In North America, Rogers has a reputation for getting the most cool GSM handsets the quickest (that's not the only reputation it has, but we won't go there right this second) -- but this is one case where T-Mobile USA beat 'em to the punch by a mile. The Canadian carrier is adding the Nokia 7510 to its TalkSpot-compatible lineup, meaning you'll be able to offload calls to WiFi when you're within range of a hotspot and transfer seamlessly to and from GSM. There's no 3G, but the colorful flip does come with changeable faceplates, a concealed secondary display, 2 megapixel camera with flash, and microSD expansion. Look for it for CAD $49.99 (about $43) on a three-year deal.[Via Unwired View]
Trio of new BlackBerrys rumored for the high end
Before you get too excited, all three of these suckers seem to be variations on a theme -- all have a QWERTY keyboard, 3G, WiFi, and GPS, and are members of the 9000 series, apparently -- so we might just be looking at different carriers here, not some massive, dreamy phalanx of unique hardware all hitting within a few months of each other. The latest batch of devices said to be making the rounds in RIM's labs are apparently codenamed Onyx, Driftwood, and Magnum, and may feature the touchscreen / QWERTY hybrid concept rumored to be hitting the pictured Pluto (confused yet?). Notably, only the Driftwood will support UMA -- important for T-Mobile -- while both the Onyx and Magnum are lined up for AT&T, so this is a pretty wild situation developing north of the border here. Downmarket, it seems that the Gemini isn't just a single device but a whole series of lower-cost models in the same vein as the present-day Curve. Doesn't really matter to us what they're called -- can we just get them rolled out on the double, please? [Image via CrackBerry]
T-Mobile and Meru Networks bring UMA to enterprise space
T-Mobile customers have been enjoying the WiFi-based spoils of UMA for quite some time, but HotSpot @Home isn't, well, HotSpot @Work. Now, however, those same luxuries are coming to the enterprise space courtesy of a partnership with Meru Networks. The two have teamed to bring fixed-mobile convergence to corporate campuses, enabling T-Mob users to switch seamlessly between cell towers and wireless access points while on "official business." Due to T-Mobile's decision to join Meru's WINS (Wireless Interoperability and Network Solutions) Partner Program, firms who take advantage can expect uninterrupted calls by all employees as they roam around -- which is pretty important when trying to close that next billion dollar deal. Of course, there's no telling what small fortune will be required to hook a corporation up with this, but hey, it's not like companies are being forced to watch their spending these days, right?[Via phonescoop]
Samsung's t339 get Charcoal makeover for T-Mobile USA
If the Samsung t339 in jet black was simply too shadowy for your tastes, how's about a few pixels of white and gray meshed in? The WiFi-packin' flip phone has just arrived in an all new, completely groundbreaking hue: Charcoal. We know what you're thinking: "Why didn't T-Mobile issue a more drastically different color?" Our response is that is "we simply have no idea whatsoever," but those digging the shade pictured above can get in now for $0.00 on contract.[Via CellPhone signal]
Orange launching 60 high-res mobile TV channels in France
Upon first glance, we almost flipped a lid at the mere mention of "high-definition mobile TV." Turns out, that's probably a misconstrued way of saying "high-resolution," or, "a higher quality than usual." At any rate, Orange is making the final touches on its mobile TV service, which will deliver 60 channels (20 with unlimited access) on the company's 3G+ UMA platform. Reportedly, the first handset to take advantage will be the LG Secret KF757, which will be the first mobile to boast the Orange TV Player -- an application that enables users to "flick from one channel to another and to consult a guide to programs showing on each channel." Sounds pretty sweet, but be sure and give us a call when you really have high-def content to share and a phone to take advantage.[Image courtesy of DirectNews]
Nanoradio fesses up to world's first 3G UMA phone: Samsung P270
We must say, we didn't really expect Samsung's P270 to get official in this manner, but we'll take what we can get. Nanoradio has today unveiled that its "Always On WiFi" solution has been "commercially launched inside the world's first 3G UMA phone." The tech was already available in the 2.5G P250, but its inclusion in the 3G-capable P270 makes it a world's first. For those unaware, this creates a dual-mode cellular / WiFi mobile which doesn't require WiFi to be toggled on or off in order to save battery life. Sadly, that's about it for details, but hopefully Sammy will come along soon and flesh things out.
WiFi-equipped BlackBerry 8320 on tap for Rogers?
There's an old saying in the wireless industry: "As AT&T goes, so goes Rogers." Actually, that's not a saying, we just made it up -- and it's not terribly accurate, either. But in the case of RIM's BlackBerry Curve 8320, there's at least a little bit of truth to it. New documents floating around indicate that Rogers intends to add the WiFi-packin' version of the Curve to its Talkspot lineup, giving users yet another smartphone option after the 8120 launched earlier this year. It'll apparently be offered in "Sapphire Blue" for $149.99 CAD (about $140) with a launch expected before the month's out.
Sony Ericsson's hot G705 slider gets real, YouTube video uploads
There it is, Sony Ericsson just went live with its new G705 powerhouse, 3G slider. Just as we heard, it sports a 2.4-inch display with automatic screen rotation courtesy of an accelerometer, WiFi, aGPS with Google Maps for Mobile, 1GB included M2 memory, built-in FM radio, RSS reader, and full HTML browser. It also features a 3.2 megapixel cam that can capture video and then upload directly to YouTube under a new partnership with Google. Also announced in a UMA variant (G705u) -- an SE first -- built exclusive for Orange to bridge GSM and WiFi networks. Headed to the US in Q1 2009.Update: US version to support GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 and UMTS/HSUPA 850/1900/2100 with Bluetooth A2DP. Orange model available in its markets in early Q4.
Samsung t336 to shore up Rogers' Talkspot offerings
It looks like Rogers is finally getting around to expanding its rather anemic selection of UMA-enabled Talkspot phones, informing dealers that they can expect delivery of the t336 from Samsung in the next few days. The phone -- a dead ringer for T-Mobile's similarly-equipped t339 -- should offer a 1.3-megapixel camera, 220 x 176 primary and 96 x 96 secondary displays, stereo Bluetooth, and most importantly, a WiFi radio for hookin' on up to your router. Looks like it'll run $49.99 CAD (about $47) on a three-year deal when it starts filtering into stores later this week, assuming everything goes well.
Motorola Z6w hits Fido for WiFi fun
If the 6301 from Nokia ain't your cup of tea, Fido has now added a second handset compatible with its Uno WiFi calling service. The new model is none other than Moto's Z6w slider, which continues the interesting choice of making Fido's WiFi lineup completely different than parent Rogers', which offers the BlackBerry Pearl and Nokia 6086 on its Talkspot service. When you're not around home, the Z6w offers quadband EDGE coverage, and the microSD slot plus Windows Media support and 2 megapixel camera should be enough to keep you at least mildly entertained. Grab the package now for $60 (about $57) CAD on a three-year deal.[Via MobileSyrup]
Rogers renames Home Calling Zone to Talkspot
Rogers' in-home WiFi calling service -- think T-Mobile's HotSpot @Home but with more polar bears, poutine, and curling -- never had the most elegant name. "Home Calling Zone" just doesn't roll off the tongue in the way that any marketing department-friendly brand should (not to suggest that "HotSpot @Home" does), and Rogers has acted swiftly to rectify its faux pas by rebranding the service simply "Talkspot." The features and pricing remain the same, as does the two-strong lineup of the BlackBerry Pearl and Nokia 6086, but at least customers will now enjoy a slightly less-awkward experience trying to describe the service to their friends and family.[Via MobileSyrup]