Pinoy Techno Guide

3G Android tab for gamers

Do you like to play games with an Android tablet? Well, Cherry Mobile Superion Core might be just what you’re looking for – a gaming Android tablet with 3G connectivity too.

With its quad core processor and PowerVR SGX544 (same with Galaxy S4) graphics processor, playing HD games should be smooth and very enjoyable.

Here’s how Cherry Mobile Superion Core looks like:

Cherry Mobile Superion Core right out of the box!

Cherry Mobile Superion Core Full Specs - Php6,499

1.2GHz Quad-Core MediaTek MT8389
Android 4.2 JellyBean
7" HD IPS Capacitive Display at 1280x720 Pixels
PowerVR SGX544 GPU
5 Megapixel Main Camera with LED Flash
2 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via MicroSD
Single Sim
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
GPS
USB OTG Support
3.5mm Audio Jack
G-Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
3500 mAh Li-ion Battery
Php6,499 SRP

Good Qualities of Cherry Mobile Superion Core

I like majority of Cherry Mobile Superion Core’s features specially its small, manageable size. The high definition screen is perfect since it is an IPS panel. That makes the graphics look the same at any angle.

The single sim slot is fine. What’s important is you can send text messages or make a call. Just use earphones and don’t place the tablet next to your ear okay? That will look very stupid.

Finally, let’s have the 3G capability of Superion Core. This will allow you to enjoy fast mobile internet connection to enjoy Free Facebook using Globe or TM!

First Ever Local Octa-Core Device

Starmobile must be very proud to be the first among the local brands to launch an octa-core phablet called the Starmobile Diamond X1.

Starmobile Diamond X1 uses the true octa-core processor from MediaTek, MT6592. That means it can truly use all 8 CPU cores at the same time to run a game or another app.

Here's how Starmobile Diamond X1 looks like:

Starmobile Diamond X1 'Octa-Core Phablet'

Starmobile Diamond X1 looks great with the very attractive aluminum metal back cover. Photo by Starmobile.

Starmobile Diamond X1 Design, Display and Software

One look at the Starmobile Diamond X1 above and I was hooked. It looks great! It has an aluminum back cover that makes it feel very solid and sturdy. Turn it sideward and you’ll realize how thin it is – just 0.7mm!

Let’s turn to the screen – it’s a 6 inch HD display so texts, photos, videos and other graphics surely look crisp and clear. If you’re worried that it’s too large therefore more prone to accidental scratches, don’t be – it’s scratch resistant.

Finally, Starmobile used a stock version of Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean for Starmobile X1. They changed the icons and added their apps like the Starmobile Sync which lets you transfer your contacts and messages via Bluetooth. However, the large clock widget looks horrible. You might want to replace that with something better. That’s the beauty of Android though – you can find many apps to beautify your future Starmobile Diamond X1.

Starmobile Diamond X1 Performance

Look at the whooping 27,401 AnTutu score of Starmobile Diamond X1. That’s the same performance as that of Samsung Galaxy S4!

Starmobile Diamond X1 doesn’t just have a 1.7GHz octa-core processor; it also has 2GB of RAM. This combination will give you the smoothest Android experience ever from a local device (although it’s a re-branded model from India).

Okay, let’s have Starmobile Diamond X1’s weakness – battery. A device with a 6 inch HD screen and an octa-core processor should have more than 3,000 mAh battery capacity. However, Starmobile Diamond X1 only has 2,300 mAh. Hence, you’ll need to re-charge this phablet before the day ends or use a powerbank.

Starmobile Diamond X1 Camera

This is the area where previous Starmobile phones perform their best like the Starmobile Knight and Muse. Starmobile Diamond X1 does the same with its 18 Megapixel main camera and 8 Megapixel front camera both with BSI sensors for better quality in low light.

Just like Knight, these are interpolated resolutions from the hardware rating of 13 Megapixels. Starmobile has been doing this interpolation technique for many models now. It takes the image produced by a 13MP sensor and enlarges them up to 18MP. This just enlarges the image though and doesn’t add to the detail in the picture.

Starmobile Diamond X1 Networks and Connectivity

This area is another very exciting one for Starmobile Diamond X1. To start with, it’s a dual sim phone with a slot for a regular sim and another smaller slot for a micro sim. Both can connect to 3G networks for mobile internet at HSPA+ speeds and clearer voice calls.

Starmobile Diamond X1 also features a dual band Wi-Fi. It’s not clear to me how this will be beneficial since it doesn’t have wireless display feature where the dual band Wi-Fi connection allows you to mirror your display while accessing the internet via Wi-Fi at the same time.

Of course, there’s Bluetooth, GPS and FM Radio. It’s also worth noting that Starmobile Diamond X1 has two speakers made by Yamaha with an output rating of 1.2W.

Starmobile Diamond X1 Full Specs

1.7GHz Octa-core MediaTek MT6592 Processor
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean OS
6 Inch HD IPS Display @ 1280x720 Pixels or almost 245 PPI
Scratch Resistant Glass
Mali 450MP4 GPU
18 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI Sensor
8 Megapixel Front Camera with BSI Sensor
2GB of RAM
8GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 64GB via Micro SD
Dual Sim (Regular and Micro)
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
Dual Band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack
Yamaha Speakers
G-Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
2,300 mAh Battery

Starmobile Diamond X1 Price and Availability

As of this writing, Starmobile haven’t released the official SRP of Starmobile Diamond X1. However, if we looks at the price of its suspected OEM in India, that’s Php14,900 when converted with the current exchange rate.

Based on the previous pricing of Starmobile, it won’t be surprising if they step it up to Php15,000. But even if that happens, Starmobile Diamond X1 is packed with awesome features that it will still be a very, very good pick.

You can also wait for other brands like Cherry Mobile and MyPhone to come up with an octa-core unit this or the next month. For now, Starmobile Diamond X1 rocks the local smartphone market in the Philippines.

If you're in Cebu City for this year's Sinulog Festival, you might want to check out the booths of different local smartphone brands. They are offering different gadget promos that you can take advantage of.

To start with, Cloudfone is offering a trade-in promo where you can exchange any used phone but still working with any Cloudfone unit of your choice. I wonder if you can exchange an old Nokia 3310 for it (just kidding).

Cherry Mobile also has their 'Awesome Android Deals' promo where you can own a Cherry Mobile Cosmos X for Php7,999 only and save Php2,000! Check out their poster:

MyPhone doesn't have a particular promo for Sinulog but they are extending their warehouse sale.

Finally, Starmobile which recently announced their first ever octa-core phablet joins the festival with more than Php1,000 savings on their Starmobile Knight.

Cheap smartwatch alternative

Are you worried that a thief will snatch your shiny smartphone while you make a call in a crowded place? Then use Cherry Mobile P1 as a smartphone 'remote controller'.

Just pair the two gadgets via bluetooth and you can then access your smartphone's phonebook, inbox, and music playlist with this pocket friendly gadget! It's a cheap alternative to a smartwatch at Php799 only.

Cherry Mobile P1 Mini Smartphone Dialer protects your phone from snatchers

Cherry Mobile P1 Mini Smartphone Dialer works with Cherry Mobile Omega HD.

Cherry Mobile P1 Features

Actually, Cherry Mobile P1 is already a basic phone by itself with a single SIM and a slot for a 32GB micro SD memory card. It even has a VGA camera for very basic picture taking.

When paired with a smartphone, you can use it to send an SMS on your smartphone, place calls and play music. That way, you can protect your expensive smartphone from being snatched.

Don't worry about the battery life of the two gadgets. The always on bluetooth of your smartphone will be compensated with less screen time since it will just be in your pocket with its screen turned off.

Cherry Mobile P1 and iPhones

The idea of a smartphone dialer like Cherry Mobile P1 seems to be very attractive that even iPhone users want to have one. However, iPhones doesn't allow file sharing via bluetooth and therefore, they won't be able to use Cherry Mobile P1 with their units.

Cherry Mobile P1 will work with most Android phone that has bluetooth.

New MyPhone Tablet

MyPhone's MyPad tablets is certainly its worst line of products. The first MyPad suffered from poor screen resolution and memory while MyPad2 suffered incompatibility with many games like Candy Crush.

Now, MyPad3 is set to make MyPhone win the tablet market just like it did with the phablet market with its MyPhone Iceberg. MyPad3 is larger, faster and feature packed than the first two tablets from the company.

Here's how MyPhone MyPad3 looks like:

Notice the iPad styled icons on this MyPhone MyPad3 - Photo by MyPhone.

MyPhone MyPad3 Design and Display

MyPhone left the 7 inch space and went directly to 10.1 inch with MyPad3. Its larger and bulkier but also gives you more space for gaming, media consumption and productivity.

We're still trying to confirm if its an IPS panel which will give you better graphics quality even when viewed at an angle. If not, we hope it still does.

What I really like with MyPad3's display are the icons and theme. It just looks so clean. The iPad styled icons are a good choice given that iPads are the most successful tablets.

MyPhone MyPad3 Performance Specs

MyPad3 will do good in this section as it is powered by a 1.2GHz QUAD CORE processor and 1GB of RAM. That's two steps away from MyPad2!

This should make playing games and running apps on MyPad3 very smooth except if you are playing very resource intensive games or 1080p movies. Yeah, limit what you download to 720p movies only.

Now here's the best detail yet. MyPad3 has a whooping 7,000mAh Li-ion battery! What can you say now Cherry Mobile with your battery juice deprived tablets?

MyPhone MyPad3 Camera, Networks and Connectivity

Sadly, MyPad3's cameras isn't very good - just 5Megapixels for the main camera but hey, the front camera is 5Megapixels too. MyPhone must have realized that tablets need better front camera.

MyPad3 can handle calls and texts with a single sim (micro). Again as I always say, don't place this huge tablet next to your ear to take a call - use earphones instead.

The best part is MyPad3's HDMI capability. This will come in handy for those who will buy the tablet and use it for creating presentations. Using an HDMI cable, you can then connect your tablet to an LCD projector.

MyPhone MyPad3 Full Specs

1.2GHz Quad Core MediaTek MT8389 Processor
10.1 Inch Capacitive Display @ 1280x768 Pixels or around 148 PPI
5 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
5 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
8GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Single Sim
3G, EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
USB OTG
HDMI (probabaly micro)
7000mAh Li-ion Battery

MyPhone MyPad3 Price and Availability

MyPad3 is priced somewhat expensively for me at Php12,888. You can get tablets with similar features from Cherry Mobile and other brands but with a lesser price.

However, MyPad3 has a larger display with good resolution and a battery that will surely last more than a day! What do you think, is this better than Galaxy Tab3?

Or at least that’s what Hersheys is thinking.

The chocolate company teamed up with 3D Systems, a company that makes 3D printers. The partnership aims to produce a 3D printer that can print out your own Hersheys kisses or perhaps a chocolate in your own image!

I wonder how it feels like eating a small chocolate version of me. Hmmn… this is exciting. I can make a 3D model of me and my fiancée, print it with this 3D chocolate printer and then give it to her as a gift!

Hersheys Kisses in different colors - Photo by brokinhrt2.

However, this is still years ahead of us. I hope they can do it soon and be affordable for me …or you.

Actually, there were already 3D printed chocolates during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2014 in Las Vegas. However, the Verge reported that they were very fragile and crumbles in your mouth. That’s not very nice. Chocolates should slowly melt to taste good.

Anyway, Hersheys is surely embracing this new technology. So, should we?

Source

‘A hero is coming’

Cherry Mobile might officially launch the hero this week. You’ll soon have the chance to own a quad core Android phone with a 5 inch screen for Php5,499.

Cherry Mobile Hero is priced just like Cherry Mobile Flare HD. These two are both affordable quad core Android phones but Hero will give you better multimedia consumption due to its larger screen size.

Here’s how Cherry Mobile Hero looks like:

Cherry Mobile Hero has the best logo in Cherry Mobile units.

Cherry Mobile Hero Performance

In terms of performance, Cherry Mobile Hero promises smooth games and apps by using a 1.2GHz quad core processor and 1GB of RAM.

There’s no word about the graphics processor yet but we’re not keeping our hopes too high. But don’t worry, Cherry Mobile Hero doesn’t have HD resolution so graphics won’t be a big problem.

What you have to worry about is the battery (as usual with Cherry Mobile). Hero has a pathetic 1,600 mAh Li-ion battery.

Cherry Mobile Hero Design, Display and Camera

Cherry Mobile Hero’s design is similar to other Android phones. What stands out is the design of the word ‘Hero’ at the back. It reminds me of Guitar Hero.

The display is a 5 inch TFT LCD panel with a resolution of 540 x 960 Pixels. Yeah, it’s not that much but at 220 pixels per inch, it’s not that bad.

For the cameras, Cherry Mobile Hero has an 8 Megapixel main camera and 2 Megapixel front cam. These two are not the best there is and Flare HD has better set of optics but if you’re after a larger screen, Hero has got you covered.

Cherry Mobile Hero Networks and Connectivity

Cherry Mobile Hero is equipped with the basic connectivity features. WiFi and WiFi hotspot are there as well as 3G access. Those are the most important ones for mobile internet connectivity.

Of course, there’s Bluetooth version 4.0, GPS, sensors and dual sim slot. Check out the full list of specs below:

Cherry Mobile Hero Full Specs

1.2GHz Quad Core Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
5 Inch Capacitive Display @ 540x960 Pixels or 220 PPI
8 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
2 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G, EDGE and GPRS Netoworks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS with A-GPS
3.5mm Audio Jack
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
1,600 mAh Li-ion Battery

Cherry Mobile Hero Price and Availability

Based on the 12 Cherrys of Christmas poster, Cherry Mobile Hero has an SRP of Php5,499. It is supposed to come with a free power bank too. But based on the experiences of a lot of Cherry Mobile customers, many did not get this freebie.

RIP Windows XP

Despite the three versions of Windows operating system after it, Windows XP still runs on one of every four computers in the Philippines. This means more people and companies are at the risk when Microsoft ends the support for the very old OS by April 8, 2014.

If your personal or work computer still runs on Windows XP, you must consider upgrading as soon as possible. If you’re still not confident that you’ll like Windows 8, upgrade to Windows 7.

Windows XP log off screen.

Disadvantages of Staying with Windows XP

Computers running Windows XP will be more vulnerable to viruses, worms, Trojan horses and other malwares. Since antivirus companies won’t have security updates from Microsoft anymore, they’ll have a harder time figuring out how to protect your computer from getting infected.

There won’t be anyone to call too. Phone support will be stopped and all you have are forums and blogs.

Still not convinced? Software vendors such as Adobe won’t be able to support Windows XP too. A problem with the software might be found but Microsoft won’t be there to fix it.

Finally, you have to update because of the ultimate reason: Windows XP just looks boring! Go ahead and ask a friend to reformat your computer with Windows 7.

Phone or Tablet?

Starmobile Diamond D2 borders on the limits of what can be considered a phone and a tablet. While the smallest tablets have 7-inch screens, Diamond D2 has a huge 6.8-inch screen! Meanwhile, Samsung Galaxy Mega is just 6.3 inches.

If you want a gadget with a large screen for web browsing and movie watching but also need it to be small enough for your pocket or purse, Starmobile Diamond D2 might be the right choice for you.

Here’s how Starmobile Diamond D2 looks like:

Starmobile Diamond D2 and its 'Widescreen Advntage' tagline.

Starmobile Diamond D2 Processor, Memory and Battery

Starmobile Diamond D2 turns shy when its innards are talked about. It runs on a dual core processor from MediaTek only. Nevertheless, it has 1GB of RAM so it can still handle your basic Android apps and games.

The good thing is Starmobile Diamond D2’s battery has a very high capacity – 3200 mAh! That’s perfect for a screen this huge. Anything lower will be frustrating.

Starmobile Diamond D2 Design, Display and Camera

This is where Starmobile Diamond D2 shows its best assets. Starmobile managed to make it thin at 7.9mm and manageable despite the huge display. It even has an aluminum back cover for additional sturdiness and premium feel.

The 6.8-inch display is big but the resolution doesn’t quite keep up with it. At 540x960 Pixel resolution, that makes it around 162 pixels per inch. Pixelation will occur sometimes especially when viewing HD movies.

You’ll be disappointed with the camera too. The main shooter is 5 Megapixels only while the front camera is a VGA.

Starmobile Diamond D2 Full Specs

1.2GHz Dual Core MediaTek MT6572 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
6.8 Inch Capacitive Display @ 540x960 Pixels or 162 PPI
Mali-400 GPU
5 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
VGA Front Camera
1GB of RAM
4GB of Internal Storage Capacity
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual Sim (Micro)
3G (HSPA 7.2Mbps), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth v2.0
GPS with A-GPS
FM Radio
Motion Sensor
192 x 98 x 7.9mm
3200 mAh Li-ion Battery

Starmobile Diamond D2 Price and Availability

Starmobile Diamond D2 is now available at different Starmobile outlets for a suggested retail price of Php7,990.

That’s the usual Starmobile pricing – a little bit high for its features but promises better after sales support than other brands.

G Pen

Cherry Mobile (unsurprisingly) is teasing another smartphone on its Facebook page. This time, it's bundled with a stylus that they are calling the G Pen.

"Doodle, scribble, sketch, email or text like a Pro", one of the posts said. I agree with all of these. A stylus can really help you show more creativity with the freedom that it offers. However, the G Pen just looks almost exactly like Samsung's S Pen.

Here, take a look:

Cherry Mobile G Pen Stylus vs Samsung S Pen

Cherry Mobile G Pen and Samsung S Pen: notice the similarities?

Cherry Mobile: A copycat?

Don't get me wrong, a stylus on a possibly cheap smartphone is a great idea. However, the naming of this stylus just makes Cherry Mobile's marketing tactic show its true nature: copying!

They followed the smartwatch craze with their own. Although that one isn't a smartwatch but just a basic phone in a wristwatch form or phonewatch.

Cherry Mobile G Pen settings.

This time, it's Samsung's S Pen that gets copied. Instead of S Pen, they name it G Pen. The originality is oozing!

Anyway, we'll be waiting for the announcement of the unit here on Pinoy Techno Guide. The hints point out to a Samsung Galaxy Note like smartphone with PRO in its name. What's your guess?

à la Samsung Galaxy Note

Few weeks after releasing the sought after Flare HD, Cherry Mobile is flaunting a new smartphone on its Facebook page once again. This time, it's Cherry Mobile Titan Pro with a G Pen stylusà la Samsung Galaxy Note!

I'm a little bit disappointed that it only has a 5 inch display. A larger one would have been better. Anyway, it's HD so texts, photos and other graphics should look great.

Here, take a look at Cherry Mobile Titan Pro:

Cherry Mobile Titan Pro - we had to modify this photo for a better presentation. Here's the original one.

Cherry Mobile Titan Pro Official Specs

Right now, there are only few of the specs that were officially announced. These are:

Quad Core Processor
5 Inch HD Display @ 1280x720 Pixel Resolution
294 Pixels per Inch
12 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash
Gesture Pen (G Pen) Stylus
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
3.5mm Audio Jack

Some thought that Cherry Mobile Titan Pro is a re-branded Spice Pinnacle Stylus but that one has a 5.5 inch screen. We might be looking at something that Cherry Mobile originally designed (or not, can you guess the OEM?).

We'll update this as soon as we get our hands on the full specs and features. Our hopes are also high that this one will be very affordable just like other Cherry Mobile products.

Following the announcement of several new slates, Torque launched another one called Torque Droidz Mini D with a 7.85 inch capacitive display that looks gorgeous in the photo below.

If you’re looking for a tablet with 3G mobile internet, call and texts capabilities but not contented with other single sim slates, Torque Droidz Mini D is perfect for you.

Here’s how Torque Droidz Mini D looks like:

This press photo of Torque Droidz Mini D looks gorgeous!

Torque Droidz Mini D Official Full Specs

1.3GHz Dual Core MediaTek MT8382 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
7.85 Inch Capacitive 5-Point Multi-touch Display
5 Megapixel Main Camera
1.3 Megapixel Front Camera
512MB of RAM
8GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G (HSDPA), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS
USB OTG Support
FM Radio
3.5mm Audio Jack

Torque Droidz Mini D Special Features

Torque Droidz Mini D isn’t a very powerful tablet given its processor and a mere 512MB of RAM. It’s just for casual gaming and usual apps. If you’re looking for something that can run the most graphics intensive games, I’m afraid you have to look for a quad core slate with 1GB of RAM.

One thing that I appreciate with Torque Droidz Mini D is that it has dual sim slot, 3G access for a faster mobile internet when not in a free WiFi zone, manageable size and the presence of Bluetooth and GPS (some brands leave these two features to save on price).

Torque Droidz Mini D Price and Availability

Okay, its price might be a little too high at Php5,699 but remember that Torque has better after sales support than other cheaper tablets from the local brands.

If you want to own one for yourself, check the nearest Torque outlet. Torque Droidz Mini D should be available nationwide by the end of this week.

MyPhone usually re-brands smartphones from the US and India. MyPhone Iceberg is the same as BLU Life View while MyPhone Vortex is the same as Micromax Canvas 4.

This time, Micromax announced its first ever true OCTA-CORE smartphone in Russia. If what I heard from a few MyPhone developers are true, we might be looking at the upcoming octa-core smartphone that MyPhone will offer in the Philippines.

Here's how Micromax A350 Canvas Knight looks like:

Micromax A350 press photo posted on a Russian forum as pointed out by fonearena.

Processor, Memory and Battery

Micromax A350 Canvas Knight white version

Micromax A350 Canvas Knight is expected to run on MediaTek's MT6592 octa-core processor. Some said it will be clocked at 2GHz but the official speed of MT6592 is 1.7GHz - that's still very fast and powerful!

The octa-core processor will be aided by Mali-400 MP4 for graphics processing and 2GB of RAM for running HD games and resource intensive apps smoothly.

Just like Iceberg Mini, Micromax A350 Canvas Knight might not have a micro SD card slot but it does have 32GB of internal storage. The only negative thing about it is the non-removable battery with 2,350mAh rating only.

Design, Display and Camera

Micromax A350 Canvas Knight's design is one of the best with affordable smartphones. It is available in black with gold on the sides and measures just 7.3mm in thickness!

The display is a stunning full HD IPS panel - yes, that's 1080p! I's sure it's scratch resistant too but we don't have the name of the particular glass yet.

The cameras are also a step higher than previous models at 16 megapixels (not interpolated, looking at you Starmobile!). The camera is slightly protruding though. For the front camera, there's a 5MP shooter that will take high quality selfies.

Full Specs

1.7GHz Octa-Core MediaTek MT6592 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
5 Inch full HD Display @ 1920 x 1080 Pixels or 441 PPI
Mali-400 MP4 GPU
16 Megapixel Main Camera with LED Flash
5 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB of RAM
32GB of Internal Storage
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
3G (HSPA+), EDGE and GPRS Networks
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth
GPS with A-GPS
3.5mm Audio Jack
Motion Sensor
Proximity Sensor
Ambient Light Sensor
2350 mAh Battery

Price and Availability

Micromax A350 Canvas Knight will go on sale in Russia first then India before it can come to the Philippines. Some MyPhone developers said that they saw a similarly looking phone in the MyPhone head office though.

This phone might be introduced by MyPhone on March or April and priced between Php14,000 to Php15,000. Are you excited? So are we!

Another first from Happyman

Fresh from the successful launch of the first ever local octa-core smartphone in the Philippines, Starmobile is poised to make another first – an Android tablet running on an Intel processor.

Intel Atom Z2580 powers the Starmobile Engage 9i at a blazing CPU speed of up to 2GHz! It also uses Intel’s hyper threading technology to maximize efficiency in running 3D games even at 60fps.

Here’s how Starmobile Engage 9i looks like:

Starmobile Engage 9i is a re-branded Ramos I9 shown here running Drag Racing.

Starmobile Engage 9i Features

Aside from being powered by an Intel processor, Starmobile Engage 9i also boats its 2GB of RAM and PowerVR SGX544MP graphics processor which will add up to a very smooth gaming experience.

The resulting smooth graphics will look stunning on its 8.9 inch IPS display with a pixel density of 245 ppi.
Moving on from what’s inside, you’ll immediately notice the high quality design and build of Starmobile Engage 9i. The glass finish and thin profile (8.6mm) adds to the effect.

If you have a bad experience with gadgets that easily exhaust its battery, you’ll never experience that again with Starmobile Engage 9i’s 6500mAh battery.

It also comes with 16 GB of internal storage, 32GB micro SD card slot and USB OTG. These features often become the small detail that break the deal with other tablets.

Starmobile Engage 9i [Official] Complete Specs

2GHz Dual Core Intel Atom Z2580 ‘Clover Trail+’ Processor
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean OS
8.9 Inch IPS Display @ 1920x1200 Pixels or 245 PPI
PowerVR SGX544MP GPU @ 533MHz
5.0 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera (no Flash)
2.0 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB of RAM
16GB of Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via micro SD
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth v3.0
USB OTG Support (e.g. SmartBro)
G-Sensor
Micro USB Port
3.5mm Audio Jack
235.5 x 150 x 8.6mm @ 441.7g
6500 mAh Li-ion Battery

Starmobile Engage 9i Official Price and Availability

If you’re looking for an Android tablet for playing high end games, Starmobile Engage 9i is perfect for you. You can also enjoy watching movies with its wide 16:10 screen. You can own one for Php9,990.00.

The only thing that might discourage you from choosing Starmobile Engage 9i is its lack of call and text capabilities. But if you look at it in a different way, it’s actually an advantage. Imagine playing your favorite Android game without any distractions!

Titanium Collection

One of the reasons why some people don’t care about Google’s futuristic eyewear is its ugly and super geeky design. All of that is about to change as we’re nearing a public sale.

Google introduced the Titanium Collection where Google Glass is fitted into normal eye glasses and shades.

Here’s one of the styles:

Google Glass Titanium Collection Curve style – Photo © Google

Available Google Glass Styles

There are currently four styles for eye glasses of the Titanium Collection: Split, Thin, Bold and Curve. All four can be fitted with normal or prescription lenses if you have vision insurance.

On the other hand, Google Glass is also available in shades to make you look more adventurous. Shades come in three styles: Edge, Classic and Active.

These new styles can make wearing Google Glass more like a fashion statement instead of its current effect that alienates other people just like by wearing a Bluetooth headset. If you’re one of the lucky persons to own a Google Glass right now, you can already choose your style and color (Charcoal, Cotton, Shale, Tangerine and Sky).

How to Get Google Glass

Sadly, Google Glass is still not available to the general public. Yeah Google is taking too long but there are a lot of problems that needs to be solved first.

Thankfully, you can try joining the Glass Explorer Program. “The Explorer Program is designed for people who want to get involved early and help shape the future of Glass,” says Google.

Google Glass costs $1,500 while each frame costs $225 for Google Glass Explorers.

Step by step Guide

The newly launched Online NBI Clearance Application System allows you to fill up the application form before going to the NBI clearoffice. This reduces the time you need to spend lining up with other applicants.

This article will guide you how to properly fill up the online application form and proceed to the payment, biometrics and releasing of your NBI Clearance.

Filling up the Online Application Form

1. When you log on to the official Online NBI Clearance website, you’ll be greeted by the form that you need to fill up. Some of the fields are self-explanatory while you need to be careful with some. For example, Present ID can be your SSS number or Tax Identification Number (TIN).

2. After filling up the first part, you’ll know how much you have to pay in the Amount box. The fee ranges from Php115 if your purpose is for local employment up to Php415 for student VISA.

3. The next part is your personal information like name, civil status, nick name and the likes. You shouldn’t have any problem with this part. When you’re done, click the SUBMIT button to open the remaining steps.

4. You’ll have to be careful when filling up your contact details because the system will send a confirmation to your email address. Your phone number must also be a valid one in order to be accepted by the system.

5. When you’re done, click the SUMBIT button once again and your QR code will be shown. Click the PRINT button to have your application form ready for signing. If you don’t have a printer, you can save the application form as a PDF file to be printed later.

Payment, Biometrics and Releasing

Bring your printed application form, 2 valid ID cards and the amount that you have to pay to the NBI clearance center near you.

Ask the guard or any employee for the instruction to ONLINE applicants immediately. The clerk should immediately ask for the code and printed application form from you. You will then proceed to the biometrics section where your photo and finger prints will be taken.

After all of that, you should now pay and wait for your NBI Clearance to be handed to you.

Thoughts about the Online NBI Clearance Application System

When I first viewed the website, my first thought was WTF! It’s a project that most sophomore IT students can finish alone. It’s just a simple data entry system designed to receive your data and give you a printable document version.

What’s lacking with the system is a payment module. They could even tap Paypal to make it easier for credit card payments. The NSO have done it, why not them?

Nevertheless, it’s still something rather than nothing at all.

Globe's 'Fair' Usage Policy

In a daring move, Globe Telecom announced that it will start to implement its Fair Usage Policy strictly.

The announcement followed several angry posts on Facebook and Twitter by Globe and TM subscribers being warned that they’ve reached the 1GB daily limit despite being enrolled in an unlimited data promo.

Globe Telecom Logo

Globe Explains

Globe’s answer was an infrographic explaining the FUP on Twitter. It says that you are limited to 1GB per day or 3GB per month on internet usage. When you hit these limits, your internet speed will be reduced to 2G instead of 3G or 4G LTE.

The infrographic further explained that only 3% of Globe subscribers actually exceed these limits, 3GB of data is equivalent to 50 hours of watching YouTube videos and that you can still post status on facebook or send an email with 2G speed.

What it means for Globe

However, it suggests that Globe is willing to let go 3% of its subscribers who are heavy data users. These include those who constantly download movies and other large files, vloggers who constantly upload YouTube videos, webmasters who upload files to create websites and others who make the most of their unlimited internet connection.

It also means that Globe’s infrastructure is way below those of Smart that isn’t implementing its FUP strictly. It’s like Globe is saying, “Go away data suckers!”

The Alternative

This is exactly the reason why I chose Smart over Globe. As a blogger, I’m a heavy data user and Globe’s 800MB daily limit before was clearly isn’t enough.

Globe might mean good for the majority of its subscribers who just use Facebook, Twitter and occasional Google search but it must not put a limit on an unlimited internet promo.

‘Intel Inside’

Few days ago, we featured an Intel powered tablet from Starmobile. We said it is the first of its kind from a local brand in the Philippines but we were wrong – it’s Cloudfone’s CloudPad 800w!

Launched a day earlier, Cloudpad 800w boasts better performance over the more common ARM powered Android tablets due to Intel’s hyperthreading technology that properly allocates processes to its cores.

CloudPad 800w Processor, Memory and Battery

The combination of CloudPad 800w’s Intel Atom Z2580 processor and PowerVR SGX544MP2 graphics processor has made headlines in the US by scoring higher in benchmarks compared to several quad core ARM chipsets. This means this tablet can handle playing 3D games and watching HD movies.

CludPad 800w also comes with a spacious 32GB of internal storage. That’s huge compared to other tablets. It even has a slot for an additional 32GB micro SD card.

We’re just a bit skeptical with the 4,600 mAh battery. But with a relatively small screen, this shouldn't be that big of a problem.

CloudPad 800w Design, Display and Camera

Looking at the CloudPad 800w, we can’t help but like it. The white color even adds to the effect.

The 7.85-inch capacitive display promises high quality graphics but the pixel density is a bit low at 163 ppi. That’s alright though. Most tablets don’t have high ppi rating.

At let’s come to the cameras. As what we pointed out before, the front camera is what’s more important in a tablet. CloudPad 800w’s front camera is an average 2MP shooter. The rear camera comes with 5 Megapixels but doesn't have an LED flash.

Here’s the Full Specs of CloudPad 800w

2GHz Dual Core Intel Atom Z2580 ‘Clover Trail+’ Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS
7.85 Inch Capacitive Display @ 1024 x 768 Pixels or 163 PPI
PowerVR SGX544MP2 GPU
5 Megapixel Rear Camera
2 Megapixel Front Camera
1GB of RAM
32GB Internal Storage
Expandable up to 32GB via Micro SD
WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Bluetooth v2.1
3.5mm Audio Jack
4,600 mAh Li-Po Battery

CloudPad 800w ‘Intel Powered Tablet with 32 GB Storage’ Specs, Price and Features

CloudPad 800w Price and Availability

CloudPad 800w is now available nationwide. Just look for the nearest CloudFone outlet in your area and be ready for its suggested retail price of Php8,999.00.

You can also compare it with the bigger Starmobile’s Engage 9i which also comes with the same Intel Atom processor.

Don't install that theme

If you’re fond of using Facebook themes to change the look of your Facebook account, you might want to stop now and just be contented with what Facebook looks like.

Honza Zika, a Virus Lab expert at Avast discovered that a Facebook theme has been used to auto-like malicious pages and photos. The theme supposedly plays an MP3 song in addition to changing your FB account colors.

Pinoy Behind Facebook Music Theme Malware

Filipino Mastermind

If you look back at the photo above, you’ll notice that the comments are in Tagalog! That means a Filipino is probably the one behind this.

Honza Zika’s Facebook activity log even showed more disturbing evidence:

Exactly! That’s the logo of Anonymous Philippines – a hacker group behind several attacks against the Philippine Government websites as forms of protest. They also performed attacks against Chinese sites during the height of the Scarborough Shoal tension.

The Impact

Zika finally said that the impact is pretty big. As of January 23, 2014, the profile photo has already garnered more than 37,000 likes.

It’s not just a potential auto-liker for the People’s choice during beauty contests. This can also be used to distribute a more serious malware in the future.

One thing that hackers don’t do is stop. As the caption on the photo says,“And expect me.”

Octa-Core + Android Kitkat = Awesome!

During Cherry Mobile’s #WeAreOnFire event, the local mobile phone company launched their first ever octa-core smartphone called Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 which can be upgraded to Android version 4.4 Kitkat.

Being part of the Cosmos series means that this is Cherry Mobile’s newest flagship phone with premium specs and features but considerably lower price than its competitors.

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 Processor, Memory and Battery

Just like the octa-core Starmobile Diamond X1, Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 is also powered by MediaTek’s MT6592 processor clocked at 1.7GHz and Mali 450MP for the graphics.

Those are already very good specs but the 2GB RAM and 16GB internal storage makes the Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 a monster phone!

Just one thing – one thing that always turns out to be the weakness of Cherry Mobile phones – its battery with a mere 2,000 mAh capacity only. The quad core processor and full HD screen will surely squeeze out the life out of this battery.

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 Design, Display and Software

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 has this design that makes it look thinner that its 7.7mm profile.

Powering up the device brings up the stunning 5-inch full HD display with One Glass Solution technology. Watching movies with the Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 is surely a wonderful experience especially that it supports High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) for very high quality videos.

One very interesting promise from Cherry Mobile is the Android 4.4 Kitkat update for the Cosmos Z2 by March. They didn’t specify if it’s going to be an OTA update so we’ll see if you need to line up in their service centers to get the update.

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 Camera

If you’re okay with software interpolation to increase the capacity of cameras, then Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 is offering you an 18 MP main camera with Autofocus, LED Flash and Backside Illiminated sensor.
The front camera will take very high quality photos of your cute face at 8 Megapixels but it’s a fixed focus one.

These cameras are not just for still photos because shooting videos in full HD quality (that’s 1080p my friend) will be blur free even if you don’t have very steady hands.

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 Network and Connectivity

Dual band WiFi is clearly becoming a trend now. Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 has this feature that enables it to connect to a WiFi network at 2.5 GHz and 5GHz simultaneously.

Dual band, dual cameras and dual sim – everything now comes in pairs! Maybe it’s the approaching Valentine’s day.

Anyway, it’s not yet clear if this one has USB OTG like the Cherry Mobile Titan Pro which has been launched at the same time. But we’re hoping it does.

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 Specs

1.7GHz Octa-Core MediaTek Mt6592 Processor
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean OS with Android 4.4 Kitkat Update
5 Inch Full HD OGS Display @ 1920 x 1080 Pixels or 441 PPI
Scratch Resistant Dragontrail Glass
Mali450-MP GPU
18 Megapixel Autofocus Main Camera with LED Flash and BSI Sensor
8 Megapixel Front Camera
2GB of RAM
16GB Internal Storage
Dual Sim/Dual Standby
Dual Band WiFi and WiFi Hotspot
Miracast Wireless Display
Bluetooth
GPS
3.5mm Audio Jack
FM Radio
Ambient Light Sensor
G-Sensor
Proximity Sensor
2,000 mAh Battery

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 ‘Octa-Core Android Kitkat Smartphone’ Specs, Price and Special Features

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 Price and Availability

Compared to Starmobile’s octa-core phone, Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 is Php1,000 cheaper at a suggested retail price of Php12,999.00. The lower price is what defines the Cherry Mobile brand but they must make sure that they can improve their after sales service.

Cherry Mobile Cosmos Z2 will be available in different Cherry Mobile outlets in the coming days and weeks. If you want this monster phone to be yours, you better save starting now!