Google outs Nexus-inspired Samsung Galaxy S 4

Google announces a more uptight version of the Samsung Galaxy S 4 in their annual I/O event and when I say "uptight" I a mean a TouchWiz-less Galaxy S 4 running on a stock Android for USD 649.

Being a Nexus-inspired phone, this handset will definitely come without bloatwares and will come with the latest Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean. And being a Google kid, this phone will receive the latest incremental Android updates without waiting for Samsung to spoil the excitement.

Technically, it's still the Galaxy S 4 that we fell in love with -  4.99-inch screen, 1.9 GHz quad-core Snapdragon 600, 2GB RAM, 13MP shooter and LTE-enabled device.

Arguably, it's the best reason to go for a Nexus phone. Plus an unlock bootloader will come right out of the box so that you can mix and match that ROMs. The Samsung Galaxy S 4 Google Nexus Edition will hit the PlayStore in the US on June 26th. And knowing Samsung to be aggressive in their device distribution means that this handset will most likely come in the country soon.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Google (Nexus) Edition
4.99-inch display full HD Super AMOLED 1920x1080p, 441ppi
Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 1.9GHz quad-core
Adreno 320 Graphics
2GB LP-DDR3 RAM
16, 32GB, 64GB
Up to 64GB microSD
HSPA+, LTE 100Mbps (6 bands)
WiFi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, dual-band WiFi Direct
Bluetooth 4.0
GPS w/ aGPS support
NFC
IR Blaster
13MP autofocus, rear camera with LED flash
1080p video recording @ 30fps
2MP front-facing camera
1080p video recording @ 30fps
Android 4.2.2 Jellybean
USD 649 (roughly Php 29,000)
Li-Ion Battery 2600 mAh

Cherry Mobile SkyFire 2.0 now official: 5-inch screen, 1.2 GHz quad-core CPU, 1GB RAM, 8MP Camera and Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) at Php 7,999

So here it goes, the Cherry Mobile SkyFire 2.0 is now official with a price tag of Php 7,999! And just like what the blogosphere has been predicting, the new Cherry quad-core device throws in a 5-inch qHD (960x540p) scratch-resistant display.

The processor, being its flagship feature, will sport a faster 1.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon S4 processor. Other essential features include a gigabyte of RAM for smooth multitasking, 8GB rear camera (2MP front facing), 4GB internal memory, 2000 mAh battery and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

In comparison to the MyPhone A919i Duo, the SkyFire 2.0 is quite short in the display department. The previous has a stunning IPS screen (294 ppi) while the SkyFire 2.0 finishes with 220 ppi in pixel density. However, the A919i Duo is priced with almost two grand higher than the SkyFire sequel.

Both devices deserve a second look if you're in the market for a better value-for-money phone. But if you think you'll go for the Cherry brand, you can get the SkyFire 2.0 starting next week at CM kiosks or official dealers nationwide.

Cherry Mobile Skyfire 2.0 Specs

5.0-inches qHD (960×540) Scratch Resistant Capacitive Display, (220 ppi)
1.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Quad-core Processor
1GB RAM
4GB internal storage
Expandable via microSD up to 32GB
8-megapixels autofocus main camera with flash
HD video recording
2-megapixels front-facing camera
WiFi, WiFi Hotspot
3G, HSDPA, GPS, Bluetooth
microUSB v2.0
Android Jelly Bean 4.1
2,000mAh Battery
Php 7,999

Samsung Galaxy Core becomes official: 4.3-inch WVGA screen, 1.2GHz dual-core SoC, 1GB RAM, 5MP camera and Android 4.1 Jelly Bean

Samsung is fond of announcing new gadgets once in a while; others may see it as a chance of having alternatives, especially those who doesn't have more bucks to drop for a flagship device. So now, the new hardware is called the Galaxy Core and basing on the looks of it, it borrows aesthetics to the Galaxy S 4 - those rounded edges and glossy finish makes these two devices look like a smaller and a bigger version of each other.

Anyways, you'll have a fair share of screen real estate with it's 4.3-inch 480 x 800p display that'll be treated with a TouchWiz, ofcourse, skin on top of the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. Under its hood, you'll get a set mid-range affair - 1.2 GHz dual-core CPU, a gigabyte of RAM, 8GB of internal memory and a 5MP rear shooter. The Galaxy Core has a dual-SIM capability as its trademark feature and a reasonable 1800 mAh battery that could keep you on the road for a while.

If the specs doesn't please you, the Galaxy Core is brushed with softwares similar to the Galaxy S 4's - Smart Stay, S Voice, Smart Alert, Motion Ui, etc. So if you're up to the idea of having S 4's flagship softwares but not particular with those pesky internals, the Core might be the handset for you.

It'll come to the Philippines in two waves, the dual-SIM variant will hit us on May and the single-SIM model will come July. So what do you think, would this be a good alternative?

Samsung Galaxy Core Specifications

129.3 x 67.6 x 8.95mm, 124g
4.3-inch WVGA (480x800) capacitive display, 217ppi
1.2GHz dual-core application processor
1GB of RAM
8GB of internal storage
microSD support up to 64GB
5MP autofocus camera with LED flash480p at 30fps video recording
VGA front-facing camera
GPS with A-GPS support
Stereo FM Radio with RDS
WiFi b/g/n / Bluetooth v3.0
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n / Wi-Fi hotspot
microUSB v2.0 / 3.5mm audio jack
EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900
HSDPA/HSUPA 5.76mbps 900/2100
Accelerometer, Proximity, Digital Compass
Dual SIM / Dual Standby (Optional)
Li-Ion 1,800mAh battery
Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean)

[Source]

Cherry Mobile gears up with SkyFire 2.0: 5-inch screen, 1.2 GHz quad-core CPU, 1GB RAM, 8MP Camera and Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean)

Cherry Mobile must be feeling the heat of MyPhone A919i Duo since it's prepping up for another quad-core device. On its Facebook page, the local fruit company teases yet another Snapdragon-powered handset and is pegged to be the SkyFire 2.0.

From the looks of it, Cherry Mobile is rebranding the Karbonn S5 Titanium which boasts a 5-inch display with 220 ppi pixel density and 1.2GHz quad-core CPU. Other purported features are the 8MP rear shooter,  a gigabyte of RAM and 4GB internal memory which is expandable via microSD slot. On top of that, the device will be powered by Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) and will have a capable 2000 mAh battery.

Other handsets like Flame and Omega were also been succeeded by their respective follow-up devices. And SkyFire was released last year with 4.7-inch display, dual-core CPU and Php 5999 price tag. If ever this news will come into fruitition, the SkyFire 2.0 will clash with the MyPhone A919i Duo to be the local 5-inch Android king.

Update: Cherry Angel confirmed the price to be Php 7,999 in her Facebook account.

[Via: Cherry Mobile Facebook Page]

HTC M4 breaks out: A mid-range phone with HTC One's design philosophy

The HTC One (previously named M7) is simply the most talked about handset so far this year and it's stealing some considerable amount of lightning from the newly released Samsung Galaxy S 4. With all the published reviews that praises its beauty, features and construction, HTC One is still a an expensive toy if you'll get it off contract. But HTC is trying nab the not-so-extravagant buyers to their line by releasing a downgraded version of their 2013 flagship.

Now, the Taiwanese company is gearing up for a device codenamed HTC M4. It's a trimmed-down version of the One when it comes to specs. However, it'll be identical to the aesthetically pleasing unibody of the One, and I am quite interested on how will HTC name this handset in the light of the One branding.

Anyways, M4 will throw a 4.3-inch 720p display; and is expected to pack a dual-core processor, 16GB of internal memory and 2 GB of RAM. The non-removable 1700 mAh battery will still be an ample resource considering that the display will not be in full HD. On top of that, M4 will be powered by a newer version of Jelly Bean (Android 4.2) underneath the HTC Sense 5. There are no details yet on how HTC will "ultrapixelized" this handset's camera, but we're looking forward to that.

Nonetheless, HTC M4 will still be a head turner for those looking for a smartphone capitalized and edgy design, packed with latest software and cheaper price. The handset will come by the end of 2nd quarter and is pegged to have an LTE version. Personally, being an HTC fan, I am interested on how this device will pan out in the market.

[Source: PhoneArena]

MyPhone A919i Duo now official: 5-inch IPS HD display, 1.2GHz quad-core CPU, 1GB RAM, 8MP camera and Android 4.1.2

MyPhone outs its newest flagship handset called the A919i Duo and it's now selling like hotcakes in selected stalls. This 5-incher is a rebranded Micromax A116 HD from India, a tight competitor of the Karbonn (Cherry Mobile Flare, Flame and Flame 2.0) brand.

Currently, the phone is priced at Php 7,900 with MyPhone's one-day deal. Afterwards, it'll be priced at Php 9,590. And what would you get in this sparkling new phone? A lot of it.

The 5-inch screen is an IPS HD display that could offer wide-angle viewing and will stage a 294 ppi pixel density. It's 1.2 GHz quad-core MediaTek processor will boost the speed in your handset in coordination with a gigabyte of RAM. Likewise, there's the 8MP main camera and 2MP front shooter that could keep you up with you photo-sharing activities.

The phone will, however, be powered by the older version of Jelly Bean (Android 4.1.2). Other stuff you need to know are just conventionals - dual-SIM/dual-Standby feature, 4GB internal expandable via microUSB and 2000 mAh battery.

I guess, it's still not too late to get this phone in a lower price. So you better check it out now in SM North Edsa.

MyPhone A919i Duo Specifications

144 x 74 x 10.7mm, 156g
1.2GHz quad-core MediaTek MT6589 processor, Cortex-A7
5-inch HD (720x1280) IPS capacitive display
294ppi with a color depth of 16.7 million
PowerVR SGX544MP GPU
1GB of RAM
4GB of internal storage
microSD support up to 32GB
8MP autofocus camera with dual LED flash
720p at 30fps HD video recording
2MP front-facing camera
GPS with A-GPS support
Bluetooth v4.0 with A2DP
HSDPA 21Mbps / HSUPA 11Mbps
Quad-band GSM / 3G/HSPA Dual-band
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi hotspot
microUSB v2.0 (USB-OTG) / 3.5mm audio jack
MyPhone Live App / Pinoy Phone App
Multimedia player / FM radio
Motion / Light / Proximity Sensor
Li-Ion 2,000mAh battery
Dual SIM / Dual Standby
Android 4.1.2 (Jelly Bean)
Color: Black and White
Php7,900 (SALE until May 1)
Php9,590 (Official SRP)

[Image Via]

Samsung releases Galaxy Tab 3: 7-inch display, 1.2GHz dual-core CPU, 1GB RAM and Android 4.1

Samsung releases the third generation Tab in a 7-inch format and labeled it as the Galaxy Tab 3. Now, for me, that messed up my ideology on how to differentiate the Tab line to the bigger Note counterparts like the Note 8.0. Anyways, the new slate comes "thrift-shop" of upgrade and is pegged to mock the Google Nexus 7 in terms of pricing.

And to roll down the specs, this upgrade might disappoint Samsung's frenzied fans. It borrows its design to the Galaxy S 4 and is somewhat lighter than its predecessor with its 306-gram weight. Other than that, the 1.2 GHz dual-core CPU, WSVGA (1024 x 600) TFT display, the 1GB of RAM and the 8/16 GB internal storage (expandable via microSD slot) seems like a blast from the Tab 2 7.0's past.

 This will however be powered by Android Jelly Bean out of the box.

There's a WiFi version that'll come in May; and a 3G variant, that is fully equipped with calling features, just like the very first Galaxy Tabs, will be available in June.

Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Specifications

7-inch WSVGA(1024 x 600) 169 PPI TFT Display
1.2 GHz Dual-Core processor
1GB RAM
8GB / 16GB internal memory
microSD card support up to 64GB
3-megapixel rear camera
1.3-megapixel front camera
WiFi a/b/g/n, WiFi Direct
3G, HSPA＋ (3G version)
Bluetooth 3.0
USB 2.0
111.1 x 188.0 x 9.9mm, 302g
Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, TouchWiz
Li-ion 4000mAh

[Source]

Globe outs flexible postpaid plans for Samsung Galaxy S 4

Globe grabs the most flexible Samsung Galaxy S 4 postpaid schemes as they launches the handset in their network today. The "leader in postpaid" offers the next generation Galaxy S device in different plans with lock-in period that range from 6 months to 30 months.

To highlight the best deal, subscribers can avail of the Samsung Galaxy S4 under the best-ever Globe My Super Plan 999 with P600 monthly cashout over a 24-month contract period only (that's as low as P1,599 monthly). Under this permanent offer, subscribers get unlimited LTE surfing of up to 42 Mbps on the Globe LTE network plus free calls and texts.

 

These cashouts are payable via credit card over 24 months with 0% interest. Moreover, subscribers availing of Platinum plans and signing up for a 24-month contract period get the Samsung Galaxy S4 with a free Samsung device. At Plan 3799, subscribers get a free Samsung Galaxy S3 mini; at Plan 5000 a free Samsung Galaxy Camera; and at Plan 10000 a free Samsung Galaxy Note 2.

Aside from the best offers and deals, subscribers are also eligible to avail of the Globe Guarantee that includes the No Billshock policy, assuring customers subscribed to Plans 999 and lower will not pay over P999 a month if they go beyond their data subscription; the 7-day phone replacement; and 24/7 access to Globe customer service channels available on the mobile phone and landline, e-mail, online chat, Twitter, and Facebook.

The Galaxy S 4 is the latest flagship smartphone Samsung that throws a 5-inch 1080 full HD display. 1.9GHz quad-core CPU, 13MP main camera and 2GB RAM to name a few of its greatness. To know more of its features, check our previous post.

[Source: Globe]

Smart intros Samsung Galaxy S 4 free with Unli Data Plan 1500

Smart announces a tempting postpaid plan for the Samsung Galaxy S 4. You can have this Korean giant's flagship device for free with Smart Unli Data Plan 1500. However this promo runs until May 2 only.

With Unli Data Plan 1500, aside from unlimited internet, you can also enjoy 120 free text and 60-minute calls. Plus, you can also have access to the most widest LTE coverage throughout the country until June 30.

The Galaxy S 4 will be available with Unlia Data Plan 2000 after May 2 with 30 months lock-in period. And since you'll have a higher plan, it's also bundled with a higher amount of calls and text ( 200 free texts and 150-minute calls).

You can check this page to apply for their plan. You can also check our in depth specs review for the Galaxy S 4 here.

Alcatel One Touch Idol Ultra comes to PH, now FREE at SUN Plan 999

Been in the movies lately? For sure you wouldn't missed the heavily "geekified" superhero movie of the year, the Iron Man 3. And with all the eye-watering stuff that this movie offers, you may have spotted that super-thin smartphone from Alcatel - the One Touch Idol Ultra. Currently, it is dubbed as the thinnest handset yet with its slim 6.45 mm body.

So this Iron Man 3 phone punks-in a flagship-esque 4.7-inch screen with AMOLED display and anti-grease oleophobic (anti-oil) coating. On top of that, the Corning Gorilla Glass stands as the sole protection to its panels. The heart of the phone is a 1.2GHz dual-core Cortex A9 processor that is paired up with a PowerVR Series 5 SGX graphics chip. Quite impressive but some specs was also compromised for a cheaper Php 14990 price tag.

Some of its notable fearues are a gigabyte of RAM and a non-expandable 16GB of internal memory. The rear of the handset houses the 8MP camera with LED flash. Likewise, a 1.3MP front facing camera is also up for your HD video calls. Plus, running the whole show will be Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean)

To keep you on the go (which I think may not be long enough), the 1800 mAh battery  will squeeze some juice for you. The One Touch Idol Ultra is available on Sun Plan 999 bundled with unlimited internet, unlimited Sun text and 4-hour worth of calls. You can choose among Red, Flash Yellow, Turquoise, Green, Fresh Rose and Black hues.

Alcatel One Touch Idol Ultra Specifications

4.7-inch AMOLED HD display (720 x 1280p), 316 ppi
134.4 x 68.5 x 6.45 mm, 115 g
Gorilla Glass panel with anti-grease oleophobic coating
1.2GHz dual-core processor MediaTek 6577 chipset
PowerVR SGX531 GPU
1GB RAM, 16GB internal storage (no expansion)
8-megapixel rear camera with LED Flash
1080p Full HD video recording
1.3-megapixel front camera
HSDPA 7.2 Mbps
FM Radio
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct

Wi-Fi hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP
Android 4.1 Jelly Bean
Li-Ion 1800 mAh battery
Php14,990