Mobileshop Archive from February 2009
Music downloads 'key to the future of mobiles'
Posted: 27 February 2009
Music downloads have largely replaced ringtones in the public download market, according to recent figures.
Juniper Research estimates the number of full tracks obtained for use with mobile phones generated global revenues of almost $24 billion (£30 billion) last year and the group predicts this could rise to $47.2 billion by 2013.
It was noted that the current figures also suggest music is now the key focus of mobile entertainment providers as it holds such a key role in future profits.
However, it was noted that had ringtones not laid the foundation for this growth, the situation could be very different.
Many handsets are now available that focus primarily on audio playb ...
New Sony Ericsson 'focuses on style'
Posted: 27 February 2009
A new handset from Sony Ericsson is set to be a big hit with those who like their mobile phones to be stylish, it has been suggested.
Following its unveiling at this year's GSM Association Mobile World Congress show in Barcelona, MobileBurn was offered the opportunity to test the manufacturer's W508 model.
It was noted the phone is another entry into Sony Ericsson's Walkman range and combines a 3.2-megapixel camera with 3G, Bluetooth A2DP connectivity as well as the firm's SensMe and Track ID music technology.
However, it is the styling of the device that the site states could be the main selling point of the W508.
"Offering users the option to change its external covers, ...
Vodafone and Microsoft team up for business service
Posted: 27 February 2009
Vodafone has entered a partnership with Microsoft that could interest entrepreneurial types.
It has been announced that Microsoft Online Services, which will be available exclusively to Vodafone users, will offer a communications solution especially designed for small and medium-sized businesses.
Combining a range of features including video conferencing, email access, instant messaging and calendar services, the application will be available as a subscription-based package.
Commenting on the move, Vodafone's global business services director Tom Craig said the idea was to address the needs of business users and keep up with the latest technological developments.
"By combi ...
Breaking the mobile rules 'could be costly'
Posted: 27 February 2009
Mobile phone users have been warned that breaking the current rules on driving while using their device could be costly.
The AA has estimated around 100,000 motorists flout the law every second and may not be aware of the financial implications of not making the most of a hands-free kit.
It was noted police were expected to crackdown on the problem over the coming months - which could mean now is the time to seek out such a device.
However, director of AA Car Insurance Simon Douglas explained that it was not just financial reasons that consumers should bear in mind when it comes to using their mobile phones behind the wheel.
"Driving while using a hand-held mobile telephon ...
This week's A-list BlackBerrys spotted
Posted: 27 February 2009
Celebrity BlackBerry Sightings has once again been busy this week, posting the latest A-listers to be spotted with their Research In Motion (RIM) handsets.
Site regular Paris Hilton - star of TV's The Simple Life and heiress to a hotel empire - was once again papped with her mobile in hand. This time the BlackBerry Bold she was carrying coordinated with a black leather jacket and mini-skirt.
Earlier in the week, both Hilton and sister Nicky were spotted engrossed in their mobile phones - despite having front row seats at a fashion show.
Anne Hathaway - who was recently nominated for an Oscar for her role as a recovering addict in the film Rachel Getting Married - was also snapped with a ...
Apple users offered bite of new Dracula title
Posted: 26 February 2009
Apple iPhone 3G users have been given the chance to take on a legendary horror character in a new game, which one site has put to the test.
Pocket Gamer's Tracy Erickson looks at Chillingo's iDracula and suggests the title could be a great purchase for those who like to use their device for fast-paced action games.
The arcade-style shoot-em-up puts the player in the role of vampire hunter tracking down the elusive Count Dracula made famous by Bram Stoker's novel and its various subsequent adaptations.
Along the way, a crossbow, rifle, grenade launcher and other weapons can be used to dispatch witches, werewolves and other demons of the night - and the reviewer concludes this offers some ...
Green shoppers 'may be keen on new Samsung'
Posted: 26 February 2009
By unveiling a new mobile phone with a number of green credentials, one expert has suggested Samsung may have attracted a range of new customers.
Following the launch of the South Korean manufacturer's Blue Earth device at the GSM Association's annual Mobile World event in Barcelona last week, Matt Hickey of Cnet Australia has commented on its potential.
He states the Samsung model - which is equipped with solar panels to allow it to charge without a traditional supply - could make it a great idea for those who regularly forget to power up their phone.
Mr Hickey adds that the Blue Earth is also likely to be favoured by those with environmental concerns, as the gadget is partially made f ...
Acer mobiles head to the UK
Posted: 25 February 2009
Acer has announced details of its move into the UK mobile phone market with a new product launch.
Following a special showcase at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the electronics manufacturer has advised it will bring its range of smartphones to the Covent Garden Hotel in London on Thursday March 5th.
Visitors will be offered the opportunity to view the new devices in the venue's screening room before taking part in a Q&A Session.
Earlier this month, the Wired Blog reported that the company's appearance at the Mobile World Congress event led to eight models being displayed, adding that each of the handsets was clearly aimed at a different type of user.
Equipped with ...
Shoppers 'demanding more content from mobiles'
Posted: 25 February 2009
Consumers are demanding more facilities from their mobile phones, a new survey has found.
The study, conducted by analysts at GetJar, revealed that the applications included on a device - known as embedded content – are one of the key selling points.
It was noted that 69 per cent of respondents wanted new mobile phones to have a host of features included, with 28 per cent placing their main emphasis on brand and 17 per cent citing user experience as essential.
A good-sized memory was noted by eight per cent as a top priority and design was key to seven per cent of people from the 130 countries covered in the survey.
Ilja Laurs, GetJar founder and chief executive, commented ...
Cheap mobile broadband seekers 'should move fast'
Posted: 25 February 2009
There are a number of cheap mobile broadband packages to be had and consumers should move fast to take advantage of them, it has been advised.
According to Broadband Genie, a site which offers news and advice on developments in the sector, many providers are putting out great offers at the moment - but this may not last forever.
It is noted that those with high-capacity data needs have a wide selection of choices and those who have lower requirements are also going to be well served in the future.
Chris Marling, editor of the publication, explained there was enough competition in the market to ensure most users are being looked after, but added it was uncertain how long this would be th ...
