2/09/2010 09:25:00 PM -
If you own a jailbroken phone and have been caught in a dilemma for the last few days since the iPhone OS 3.1.3 update has been released; here’s good news for you all.
Keeping alive the spirit of the cat-and-mouse game between the iPhone Dev Team and Apple Inc. the dev team confirms in a blog post about the jailbreaking being made possible for iPhone OS 3.1.3.
The iphone dev team has stated that iPhone OS 3.1.3 IPSWs can be jailbroken by the group’s redsn0w jailbreak tool. Supported devices presently include the iPhone 2G (first-generation iPhones), iPhone 3G, and iPod touch 2G (second-generation iPod touch).
Blog ’comments’ confirm: Redsn0w works for iPhone OS 3.1.3
Such has been the association between the dev team and its avid followers that they never cease to offer constructive feedback and work in tandem with the dev team. Sharing the same sentiment, the dev team in its blog fondly refers to them as ‘daring experimenters’ who as the latest response to Apple’s iPhone OS 3.1.3 have confirmed that ‘yesterday’s redsn0w works for today’s 3.1.3 update for iPhone 2G’. In another update, it has been reiterated that ultrasn0w also works for iPhone 3G and first-generation iPod touch units.
Pwnage Tool 3.1.5 Adds iPhone OS 3.1.3 Support
Pwnage Tool 3.1.5 was released by the iPhone Dev Team on Monday, just a few days after Apple released its iPhone OS 3.1.3 update. As a utility, Pwnage Tool "jailbreaks" the iPhone and iPod touch; thereby, users can install and run applications that are not available at Apple's iTunes-based App Store.
Although the utility does appear to work, it is not prepared for users that are not comfortable with terms like ‘SHSH hashes’ and ‘bootroom’. The jailbreak utility is compatible with the original iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS with early bootroom, original iPod touch, and the second generation iPod touch with ‘early bootroom’.
The dev team has also issued a warning: If you don’t know if you have an early bootrom or not, please avoid updating until you learn more. Like any jailbreak iphone, Pwnage Tool could leave you with an iPhone or iPod touch that doesn't work. Therefore, try not to jailbreak iphone unless you are comfortable with the process.
Seek professional help for recommended service and support. You may log on to easyiphoneunlocking.com for round the clock services regarding iphone unlocking and jailbreak iphone.
Posted: Seuli.B
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2/07/2010 11:30:00 PM -
One of the most prominent grievances most Apple enthusiasts have with the iPad is its exorbitant pricing. However, here is good news for you all!
Analysts believe that Apple might soon cut down price of its much-hyped tablet. This has been concluded on the basis of Apple’s earlier trend of dropping the price of iPhone, if sales figures do not meet Apple's expectations.
Although analysts expect that Apple will be able to sell between one million and five million iPads in its first year, they have also engaged in making pricing predictions at the same time. Now, the big question is that will this deliberate debate analyzing a price cut deter the opening demand for the pricey tablet computer?
What is the iPad price cut issue all about? As announced on launch, Apple iPad is priced at $499 for the 16GB model, $599 for the 32GB model, and $699 for the 64GB model – all these models will be available in March. On the other hand, the 3G models will not be available until April and will sell for $629 for the 16GB model, $729 for the 32GB model and $829 for the 64GB model.
Credit Suisse analysts are however anticipating that Apple will opt to stay ‘agile’ with its pricing strategy and may even consider a discount for the devices if customers aren't buying. Apple trends indicate that it had earlier slashed iPhone prices sharply triggering boost in sales. It was done soon after iPhone demand dropped off after the first couple of weeks. Analysts are predicting that iPad will go through a similar price drop as the iPhone.
Although it still remains to be seen how much foothold the iPad gets initially in the tablet computer market, Apple is apparently quite willing to get even more aggressive with the iPad's $499 to $829 pricing.
Lets wait and watch; we’ll surely keep you updated.
Posted: Seuli.B
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2/05/2010 10:06:00 PM -
Seems it’s the season for iPhone updates! It has been quite a while since the iPhone OS has been updated and following closely the release of the iPad and announcements of VoIP for 3G and Skype update comes the news of the iPhone OS newest version, the iPhone OS 3.1.3.
The iPhone 3.1.3 OS is available for all iPhone versions and is also compatible with all iPod Touch versions. Although there isn’t much concrete content to go with this new update, Apple assures that it will definitely look into fixing the occasional bugs and errors that accompanies every single update – and might come along with iPhone 3.1.3 OS too.
Apple also stated that the updated iPhone 3.1.3 OS will offer enhanced accuracy for battery level reports on the iPhone 3GS and repair problems that some Third Party Apps have had launching. It also fixes a problem that has been going on with the iPhone not working properly with the Japanese Kana keyboard.
Geohot confirms: Blackra1n & Blacksn0w not ready for the latest update George Hotz (popularly Geohot) has confirmed that Blackra1n and Blacksn0w tools are not yet compatible with the latest iPhone 3.1.3 firmware. In a recent tweet, Geohot shares that the new firmware brings 05.12.01 baseband for iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G which restricts jailbreaking and unlocking on newer devices.
iPhone 3.1.3 OS Update & Dev Team’s Note for Jailbroken iPhone
The iphone dev team has as quickly as always updated its followers about Apple iPhone 3.1.3 OS and its effect on jailbroken iPhone. In their latest blog post ‘3.1.3 and thee’ in the iphone dev team blog it posted a warning iPhone users with jailbroken devices to not update their device - 3G and 3G(S). It has been further explained that PwnageTool and redsn0w are not yet compatible with 3.1.3 and there is not instant solution to this.
The dev team has also urged its followers to not ‘bug’ then regarding this since no estimated time frame is possible at this moment regarding the release of compatible tools to work for iPhone 3.1.3 OS. However, all of you who have jailbreak iPhone keep a check on this space as we promise to keep you updated.
Posted: Seuli.B
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2/03/2010 11:30:00 PM -
Finally the much in-demand version of Skype for iPhone which supports 3G calling is soon to be released. In a latest blog post, the company has divulged that this update has been done of the SDK (Software Development Kit) which Apple provides to developers like Skype for the iPad.
With the release of the iPhone OS 3.2 for the iPad, restrictions on calling over a 3G network have been removed, paving the way for Skype to integrate the much requested feature into their app. This will allow iPhone users to now make calls in wideband audio, giving you greater clarity and fidelity – because that’s what is expected from Skype.
Here is a video announcing Skype's new update:
What took so long to introduce Skype calling over 3G…..
Earlier, 3G calling over VoIP has been banned because of an agreement between AT&T and Apple, with AT&T’s network unable to support the heavy data traffic. Then, iPhone users have only been able to make VoIP calls over WiFi. However, it will no longer be the case now.
Further, the Skype team optimistically reveals that they might soon come up with Skype for iPad, as they have already started reviewing the device and its specs.
Video-chat facility for Skype on iPhone – next in line?
Video-chat facility for Skype on iPhone is another expected feature amongst iPhone users. Peter Parkes, the social media communications lead at Skype, has until now not given any specific on any time-line or assurances regarding video chat.
However, he has hinted that Skype will look to develop video-capable apps wherever devices can support video calls. Parkes stressed on the fact that the main focus for Skype will be on a great user experience.
Posted: Seuli.B
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2/01/2010 09:29:00 PM -
Apple has some more good news to share with you post the iPad launch. In a recent company announcement, Apple has revealed that it has done away with the restrictions that earlier prevented VoIP iPhone applications from working over 3G. iPhone enthusiasts are elated as this will unleash newer opportunities for VoIP applications, which until now have only worked over Wi-Fi.
This was one of the much awaited news from Apple since October 2009, since AT&T announced that it would allow VoIP apps over 3G.Quite a few popular VoIP application developers like the iCall and Fring have already announced their support for VoIP. This is in fact a priority as allowing VoIP over 3G will set the stage for increased innovation in the VoIP arena, and also more experimentation with video chatting.
The Edge VoIP can Give to the iPhone
The reaction of the VoIP developers is understandable considering the fact that an update to the iPhone SDK will finally allows application developers to build this capability into their programs. Effectively, this will allow iPhone users like you to drop their unlimited voice plans and opt for a combination of data and voice for calls. Most users are elated as they can now find a way to save big on their monthly cell phone bill using VoIP calling.
iCall - the first app to use this capability (now available in the iPhone’s App Store) reveals that with this new announcement with the iPhone, it will not only let you make VoIP calls, but also offer a way to switch cellular calls to VoIP. The free app allows you set free five-minute telephone calls to the United States and Canada. For $10 per month, users can get unlimited calling to those countries and pay-as-you-go international rates.
VoIP calls over 3G would use no voice minutes, only data. So, when you sign up for the monthly plan, users will get a new phone number in the area code of their choice. However, they might still show their existing number on caller ID.
Sharing this sentiment, web communication aggregator Fring reveals that users can now video chat over 3G as well. As experts believe, video chatting is going to become more and more significant in mobile devices over the next few years and Apple for sure will be taking that into account by dropping 3G restrictions.
Limitation: The only limitation is that since VoIP services are not allowed to use the iPhone’s dialer and calling system, incoming VoIP calls appear as push notifications (as if you got a text message), rather than a full-blown ring. With iCall however, you can also switch incoming voice calls over to VoIP after you’ve answered the phone. These methods will certainly allow people to cut down on voice minutes in exchange for a cheap VoIP plan.
Posted: Seuli.B
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1/30/2010 11:35:00 PM -
Seems the latest offering from Apple – the iPad has raked up more controversy and debate than its former products. While Apple is confident and optimistic about its tablet-style iPad computer, which represents a completely innovative class of consumer electronic devices, perfect for watching videos, surfing the Web and reading electronic books, consumers and critics feel, it is too ahead of its time.
At the same time, the Internet is flooded with constructive criticism of the iPad, which one believes will inspire Apple Inc. to come up with a better upgraded edition next time around. Even jokes are doing the round comparing the US$ 499 iPad to a US$ 4.99 watermelon. Here are a few of the (expected) iPad features that Apple followers think it should have had.
Few Features the new Apple iPad lacks…. - Camera missing. The iPad doesn’t have a camera, and has let down the expectation of millions of Apple customers. A camera with enabled video conferencing and/or video chats was high on the list of expected features.
- Devoid of multitasking. Analysts consider it a huge setback for Apple iPad as it does not supported multitasking. It shows that although Apple has re-jiggered iPhone OS to work on this device, it still cannot run background processes.
- No widescreen display. The iPad comes with a 9.7-inch IPS display; however, it does not match the 16:9 standard screen dimensions, which most of today's devices conform to. Yet, the iPad screen display will be capable of showing HD movies.
- Flash. The Apple iPad’s Safari browser doesn't have Flash, just as its counterpart – the iPhone. Analysts believe that the non-existence of Flash is perhaps one of iPad’s biggest limitations. Flash, which is one of the most universal applications, present on almost 98 percent of all computers, is however argued by Apple as a ‘technology’ that is too slow for the iPhone as well. What one finds strange is, how can Apple think it can get away without Flash?
- Mac OS missing. The iPad runs a new in-house built 1GHz processor that Apple calls the A4. That appears to be fine at the moment for iPhone OS. However, experts believe the iPad would have been more efficient with a full OS X, transcending it to an entirely different level.
- GPS missing. The iPad which has an accelerometer for a great gaming experience goes missing with the GPS feature. That suggests that Google Maps will have to rely on 3G and/or Wi-Fi to locate the iPad.
- Not enough storage space. Although the iPad can sync content with iTunes and users can even add or remove content at will, 64GB (max size) is just not enough for games, movies and music – as much you would like to carry around.
- Removable Battery. The iPad like the iPhone and the newer laptops doesn't have a user-removable battery.
- No HDMI. Apple has surprisingly missed out on an HDMI port. This is strange considering how Apple could possibly skip a feature like that, which calls for easy compatibility with today's HDTVs.
Do you have any more to add to this list? Share with us your views and comments.
Posted: Seuli.B
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1/28/2010 08:19:00 AM -
The much awaited January 27 event finally arrived and as much anticipated, Steve Jobs took the state to demonstrate Apple’s latest device - The iPad. It is a tablet computer which can be simply described as visually being a ‘large iPod Touch’. Apple iPad will be initially available for sale only in the USA, and is expected to be available in the rest of the world in the early summer.
The iPad will be available as a Wi-Fi and a 3G/WI-Fi model, with a 16GB, 32GB or 64GB Flash storage version for each. Apart from that, the device is powered by a new 1Ghz Apple A4 processor and is loaded with Wi-Fi 802.11n and v2.1 Bluetooth, plus the usual Apple software including iTunes and the App Store, Mail, Calendar and Safari.
The event also marked the launch of Apple iBookStore where you can buy eBooks for use with the iPad. Moreover, the current iPhone app developers will be creating new apps especially for the iPad, in order to take advantage of the new screen size.
Apple iPad: Features - The Apple iPad weighs 1.5 pounds and measures 7.47 inches in width by 9.56 inches in length by 0.5 inch in thickness.
- The screen used in the iPad is a glass-covered, oleophobic, LED-backlit, 9.7-inch capacitive touch screen. It uses IPS (in-plane switching) technology for above-average viewing angles. The maximum screen resolution is 1,024x768 pixels.
- Video output is available using a dock adapter; however, HDMI is not supported, and output resolution is constrained to 480p. Below the screen you will find a home button that looks and functions exactly like the button found on the iPhone and iPod Touch.
- The iPad is wrapped around the backs and sides with Matte aluminum, tightening a bit around the edges. However, unlike the glossy plastic of the iPhone or the polished chrome of the iPod, the iPad is least expected to show fingerprints and wear.
- If you are an iPhone owner, you will find the buttons, switches, and ports around the edges of the iPad very familiar. Besides a 30-pin dock connector at the bottom, there is a small integrated speaker; a volume rocker button and mute switch sit on the right side; along with a screen lock, a headphone jack, and a pinhole microphone sit up top.
- The Apple iPad comes with a 1GHz A4 processor (Apple brand) under the hood. It comes along with 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.1 and a compass.
- Battery life is rated at 10 hours, and the iPad has three storage capacities available -16GB ($499), 32GB ($599), and 64GB ($699).
- Apple iPads with 3G wireless data support (microSIM) is due to be released in May with the same capacity range. However, it will cost $130 extra for each respective model (i.e., $629, $729, and $829). Again if you go the 3G route, you have to pay for an additional data plan (currently provided by AT&T with no contract), setting you back $14.99 a month for 250MB of data, or $29 for "unlimited" usage.
Apple iPad: Limitations
In the first instance, as you go through the data plans they seem to be pretty reasonable; however, they are attached to the iPad and cannot be shared with your phone or other Internet-capable devices.
Apart from that, despite its lovely design, beefier core apps, and new e-book features and store, the iPad is hampered by a well-documented string of missing features like a camera, 16:9 support, Flash support, multitasking, SD card slot, HDMI or high-resolution video output support, USB ports, GPS, to mention a few. Not to mentions its exclusivity to the AT&T network.
Apple iPad: Pricing
The pricing scheme is overly complex, and while I'm not sure it's genuinely overpriced, it's nevertheless expensive, and you can't imagine the price going much lower without crashing into the 64GB iPod Touch and making the iPad look a lot like a sucker's buy.
The Apple iPad can be concluded as a product ahead of its time. You cannot term it as a failure; at the same time, it is something in the like of a concept product - a proof of concept. If you have decided on buying yourself an Apple iPad, you have to own it along with its inevitable first-generation bugs, fulfillment problems, and buyer's remorse over added features and price drops – altogether a heartbreak waiting to ensue.
Posted: Seuli.B
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