Technology Thailand
Where Thais and technology clash
by Jesada Chandraprasert, Thailand
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I see an iPhone in Thailand's near future
Jul 12, 2008 21:52After the rollout of the iPhone 3G, I got to thinking why we were not getting one for Thailand. The major hurdle lies in Thailand's current cellular infrastructure; we're stuck at 2.5G. There is no point is launching a product that has no support from the carriers' own systems. With that in mind, an inside tipster told me that Dtac is nearly ready to deploy its 3G network sooner than we were led to believe. In fact, as I'm told, importing and deploying the 3G support equipment have already begun.
Next, we have the iTunes Store. Thailand has never had an iTunes Store of its own. Sure, we could access free content from any country's store, but we were never able to make any purchases, until now. Yes, folks, we finally have an iTunes Store. Just apps available but a legitimate iTunes Store where we can send our credit card details to spend some Thai baht.
This is especially exciting as it proves Apple's intent at the very least. There is no reason to launch an apps store solely to support jailbroken/unlocked imports. That has not been the Apple way. Nor does it seem logical that Apple would condone us breaking any "agreement" under the terms and conditions set out by its partnering carriers worldwide.
As we progress toward the rest of Apple's worldwide deployment phases and Thailand progresses toward the finalizing of the 3G bandwidth allocation, more evidence will surely be uncovered and you can be sure yours truly will keep at this like an airport drug-sniffing dog chases after your Thai sausages hidden in your carry-on.
- Talkback
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khunlouis says...
Very exciting news if we are finally getting 3G. I kind of understand why we are taking longer to go to 3G (apart from political barriers) I think we are not really a data driven mobile using group - mainly voice and sms. The percentage is probably quite small compared to the total cost of upgrading all the hardware. But not our problem, happy if we have the technology.
As for the App store, I think it's more to serve the 2.0 software for ipod touch, which is available in Thailand.
As for the iphone itself, I don't think it will be here anytime soon. Probably sometime in 2009 which we will probably be the 3.0 version. Don't think it will be subsidized either.
I read somewhere that iphone 3G will not work on the AIS network? 850 vs 900 mhz...can that be true?
Jul 14, 2008 02:54
Very exciting news if we are finally getting 3G. I kind of understand why we are taking longer to go to 3G (apart from political barriers) I think we are not really a data driven mobile using group - mainly voice and sms. The percentage is probably quite small compared to the total cost of upgrading all the hardware. But not our problem, happy if we have the technology.
As for the App store, I think it's more to serve the 2.0 software for ipod touch, which is available in Thailand.
As for the iphone itself, I don't think it will be here anytime soon. Probably sometime in 2009 which we will probably be the 3.0 version. Don't think it will be subsidized either.
I read somewhere that iphone 3G will not work on the AIS network? 850 vs 900 mhz...can that be true?
Jul 14, 2008 02:54
cheewee says...
Even if the iPhone 3G is not launched in Thailand, I am sure you can get one in MBK eventually.
Jul 14, 2008 11:19
Even if the iPhone 3G is not launched in Thailand, I am sure you can get one in MBK eventually.
Jul 14, 2008 11:19
Jesadac says...
@khunlouis: I got this from Apple's tech specs. We look to be good in AIS's current 3G pilot program in Chiang Mai and for the proposed networks which are planned.
Cellular and wireless
UMTS/HSDPA (850, 1900, 2100 MHz)
GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
Wi-Fi (802.11b/g)
Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR
Jul 14, 2008 11:54
@khunlouis: I got this from Apple's tech specs. We look to be good in AIS's current 3G pilot program in Chiang Mai and for the proposed networks which are planned.
Cellular and wireless
UMTS/HSDPA (850, 1900, 2100 MHz)
GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
Wi-Fi (802.11b/g)
Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR
Jul 14, 2008 11:54
Jesadac says...
@chewee: Definitely looks to be the quickest option. I'm sure that the apps and GPS capabilities is well worth the quick jump even if there is no 3G yet.
Jul 14, 2008 11:56
@chewee: Definitely looks to be the quickest option. I'm sure that the apps and GPS capabilities is well worth the quick jump even if there is no 3G yet.
Jul 14, 2008 11:56
cheewee says...
Definitely worth a look for me especially with Exchange support. Hopefully, I can get one from MBK during my next Bangkok trip!
Jul 14, 2008 12:22
Definitely worth a look for me especially with Exchange support. Hopefully, I can get one from MBK during my next Bangkok trip!
Jul 14, 2008 12:22
Jesadac says...
Let me know how it works out for you. Personally, I'm waiting for the um, "independent developers" to update their pwnage app for 2.0 software. It should be any day now so having exchange and the other upgrades will be a breath of fresh air.
Jul 14, 2008 12:40
Let me know how it works out for you. Personally, I'm waiting for the um, "independent developers" to update their pwnage app for 2.0 software. It should be any day now so having exchange and the other upgrades will be a breath of fresh air.
Jul 14, 2008 12:40
khunlouis says...
K. Jesadac: Thank you for your info, but what frequency will AIS be running their 3G programme on? I am not very savy on 3G frequencies, so not quite sure how that works, but know the 3G iPhone will work on 2.5G as we are now. Sorry for not being clear on my statement earlier which was focused more on the 3G aspect of the phone.
Exciting times ahead.
Jul 14, 2008 19:55
K. Jesadac: Thank you for your info, but what frequency will AIS be running their 3G programme on? I am not very savy on 3G frequencies, so not quite sure how that works, but know the 3G iPhone will work on 2.5G as we are now. Sorry for not being clear on my statement earlier which was focused more on the 3G aspect of the phone.
Exciting times ahead.
Jul 14, 2008 19:55
Jesadac says...
@ KhunLouis: Quite alright, I may have misread your post as well. It looks as if AIS will be bidding for part of the 2100MHz spectrum which is about to go on the auction block this year. However, they currently run a pilot program in Chiang Mai which works on 900Mhz. This program was to be deployed in Bangkok but they decided against it. If anyone was considering going 3G on AIS's pilot program now,my suggestion is to wait and see what happens after the auction as they may just dump the current system and focus only on the 2100MHz. DTAC and Orange are working on their own systems which will be on different frequencies all together. More info here:
asia.cnet.com...
and
asia.cnet.com...
Jul 15, 2008 01:15
@ KhunLouis: Quite alright, I may have misread your post as well. It looks as if AIS will be bidding for part of the 2100MHz spectrum which is about to go on the auction block this year. However, they currently run a pilot program in Chiang Mai which works on 900Mhz. This program was to be deployed in Bangkok but they decided against it. If anyone was considering going 3G on AIS's pilot program now,my suggestion is to wait and see what happens after the auction as they may just dump the current system and focus only on the 2100MHz. DTAC and Orange are working on their own systems which will be on different frequencies all together. More info here:
asia.cnet.com...
and
asia.cnet.com...
Jul 15, 2008 01:15
Jesadac says...
BTW. Yes, i totally forgot about the iPod Touch in all this iPhone frenzy. The apps store is also for them as well and not only the iPhone.
Jul 15, 2008 01:28
BTW. Yes, i totally forgot about the iPod Touch in all this iPhone frenzy. The apps store is also for them as well and not only the iPhone.
Jul 15, 2008 01:28
cwtengr says...
I am surprised and pleased to learn from this thread that iTunes store now in Thailand. I am from SF Bay Area (iHeaven), but worked in Thailand 2002-2005 and have Thai family so am interested that Apple expands into Land of Smiles.
My wife has had iPhone since October 2007. And, I just bought my 3G iPhone last week! Since I use both pieces of hardware (paired with Apple TV and iTunes on a PC), I have good news for you: although speed is nice, it's not about 3G vs 2G or Edge; the real magic is in "The Platform" that Apple has created I think that the media's focus on speed is just hype; we always *want* more, but I doubt past some point that we really *need* it. What I think is most important is that, now that Thailand has iTunes store access, Thais can now make their iPod touches and Mac computers really fly. And it indeed does look as if Apple intends to include Thailand in a suture iPhone, because of the following:
I agree with Khun Jesada that the iTunes access is likely a hint of good things-to-come. I think that I have discovered another hint from Apple: go to www.apple.com... Note that the post date is June 5, 2008.
All of the languages supported by the 2.0 firmware release for the iPhone have associated dictionaries in-place. This is because Apple's keyboard hints require a complete dictionary.
Add to this with the fact that, for the first time, 2.0 firmware release allows us to see Thai characters on our locked phones. It appears that Apple is preparing for a Thai iPhone release in the near future.
By the way, has anyone noticed that the old Thai keyboard app as well as the movilik website has disappeared? Seems to me that a Thai keyboard would be a pretty simple Web App with the current developer's kit. Although I don't want to take on developing Web Apps, I sure look forward to someone getting that done.
Jul 20, 2008 00:44
I am surprised and pleased to learn from this thread that iTunes store now in Thailand. I am from SF Bay Area (iHeaven), but worked in Thailand 2002-2005 and have Thai family so am interested that Apple expands into Land of Smiles.
My wife has had iPhone since October 2007. And, I just bought my 3G iPhone last week! Since I use both pieces of hardware (paired with Apple TV and iTunes on a PC), I have good news for you: although speed is nice, it's not about 3G vs 2G or Edge; the real magic is in "The Platform" that Apple has created I think that the media's focus on speed is just hype; we always *want* more, but I doubt past some point that we really *need* it. What I think is most important is that, now that Thailand has iTunes store access, Thais can now make their iPod touches and Mac computers really fly. And it indeed does look as if Apple intends to include Thailand in a suture iPhone, because of the following:
I agree with Khun Jesada that the iTunes access is likely a hint of good things-to-come. I think that I have discovered another hint from Apple: go to www.apple.com... Note that the post date is June 5, 2008.
All of the languages supported by the 2.0 firmware release for the iPhone have associated dictionaries in-place. This is because Apple's keyboard hints require a complete dictionary.
Add to this with the fact that, for the first time, 2.0 firmware release allows us to see Thai characters on our locked phones. It appears that Apple is preparing for a Thai iPhone release in the near future.
By the way, has anyone noticed that the old Thai keyboard app as well as the movilik website has disappeared? Seems to me that a Thai keyboard would be a pretty simple Web App with the current developer's kit. Although I don't want to take on developing Web Apps, I sure look forward to someone getting that done.
Jul 20, 2008 00:44
khunlouis says...
I wish I could share the optimism (I am a mac user and can't wait for the iphone too) but do feel we will not see the iphone here legitimately in Thailand until probably second half of 2009 earliest. But do agree it's step in the right direction and do hope we even get a music store soon. Meanwhile it's wait, or get it in grey market or use the ipod touch. Come on Apple, how long do we have to wait - Version 3??
Jul 20, 2008 18:49
I wish I could share the optimism (I am a mac user and can't wait for the iphone too) but do feel we will not see the iphone here legitimately in Thailand until probably second half of 2009 earliest. But do agree it's step in the right direction and do hope we even get a music store soon. Meanwhile it's wait, or get it in grey market or use the ipod touch. Come on Apple, how long do we have to wait - Version 3??
Jul 20, 2008 18:49
Jesadac says...
@cwtengr- I'm even more psyched now. Lets just hope its not something for the iPod touch.
Jul 20, 2008 21:17
@cwtengr- I'm even more psyched now. Lets just hope its not something for the iPod touch.
Jul 20, 2008 21:17
Jesadac says...
@khunlouis: On the bright side of things, if we have to wait until the V3 of the iPhone comes out, I do hope it continues its trend and price drops even further with more features and storage space.
Jul 20, 2008 21:23
@khunlouis: On the bright side of things, if we have to wait until the V3 of the iPhone comes out, I do hope it continues its trend and price drops even further with more features and storage space.
Jul 20, 2008 21:23
cwtengr says...
The keys to opening the iPhone door have been turned by Apple, most obviously with the opening of the Apps Store that Khun Jesadec originally reported. In my experience, he's spot-on in his observation. Opening the Apps Store is a practically a notice-of-intent.
Although no one outside Apple can ever accurately guess their plans, it seems to me that it remains only for a provider, such as DTAC, to close a deal. Considering media hype, I would imagine that the provider would want to have 3G service activated in most of Bangkok. As I previously commented, using 2G does not significantly dampen the iPhone experience. But corporations don't think the same as you and I.
Betting odds? I give it only 20% chance that I'll be able to switch-out my SIM card when I come over for my New-Year's visit; 75% by this time next July; and, 95% by end of 2009. Which means that I am only slightly more optimistic than khunlouis; I think early- to mid-2009 puts Thailand above the 50th percentile. But I am used to waiting with Apple, 6-9 months is near-future for them.
Please tell me when any of you spot that Thai keyboard app for locked iPhone. Chok dee.
Jul 20, 2008 23:56
The keys to opening the iPhone door have been turned by Apple, most obviously with the opening of the Apps Store that Khun Jesadec originally reported. In my experience, he's spot-on in his observation. Opening the Apps Store is a practically a notice-of-intent.
Although no one outside Apple can ever accurately guess their plans, it seems to me that it remains only for a provider, such as DTAC, to close a deal. Considering media hype, I would imagine that the provider would want to have 3G service activated in most of Bangkok. As I previously commented, using 2G does not significantly dampen the iPhone experience. But corporations don't think the same as you and I.
Betting odds? I give it only 20% chance that I'll be able to switch-out my SIM card when I come over for my New-Year's visit; 75% by this time next July; and, 95% by end of 2009. Which means that I am only slightly more optimistic than khunlouis; I think early- to mid-2009 puts Thailand above the 50th percentile. But I am used to waiting with Apple, 6-9 months is near-future for them.
Please tell me when any of you spot that Thai keyboard app for locked iPhone. Chok dee.
Jul 20, 2008 23:56
khunlouis says...
K. Jesadac - You may be right, if we do get V3 or even 3.5 it may be a blessing in disguise with OS being more stable, and a more mature platform overall. AND hopefully our providers will have the bandwidth/technology upgrade ready to support those new features that may be coming. - BTW congrats on your V.2 upgrade. Let us know how it works out, as I was very tempted to do the same.
A small note on the ipod touch, why doesn't some one just come up with an add-on device (cradle like old Palm modems or Express card modems) to give it the phone function? It won't be as cool, but if the accessory is small enough, can provide another solution for those craving for the iphone but not want to hit the MBK shops for one.
Just a thought.
Jul 21, 2008 02:02
K. Jesadac - You may be right, if we do get V3 or even 3.5 it may be a blessing in disguise with OS being more stable, and a more mature platform overall. AND hopefully our providers will have the bandwidth/technology upgrade ready to support those new features that may be coming. - BTW congrats on your V.2 upgrade. Let us know how it works out, as I was very tempted to do the same.
A small note on the ipod touch, why doesn't some one just come up with an add-on device (cradle like old Palm modems or Express card modems) to give it the phone function? It won't be as cool, but if the accessory is small enough, can provide another solution for those craving for the iphone but not want to hit the MBK shops for one.
Just a thought.
Jul 21, 2008 02:02
Jesadac says...
@cwtengr: "Please tell me when any of you spot that Thai keyboard app for locked iPhone. " You can be sure of that.
Jul 21, 2008 10:24
@cwtengr: "Please tell me when any of you spot that Thai keyboard app for locked iPhone. " You can be sure of that.
Jul 21, 2008 10:24
Jesadac says...
@khunlouis: I think they do have some sort of hack out there that turns your iPod touch into a VOIP device, although only when near a wifi hotspot. Anything 3rd party would surely incur the wrath of Apple for making a work around iPhone clone. Not saying that it wouldn't be interesting to see, it would be.
Re: 2.0 - its been great so far, my only gripe is that the 3rd party developers have not had time to port their apps over to the new version and there is definitely a lack of software to download. They have replaced installer with Cydia which is still in development so there is no facility to add any additional sources yet.
Otherwise, Exchange works flawlessly, search contacts works well. I do like having the apps store at my fingertips now. and The overall stability seems to be improved (possibly because i have not installed anything other than the apps from Apple's store).
Jul 21, 2008 10:30
@khunlouis: I think they do have some sort of hack out there that turns your iPod touch into a VOIP device, although only when near a wifi hotspot. Anything 3rd party would surely incur the wrath of Apple for making a work around iPhone clone. Not saying that it wouldn't be interesting to see, it would be.
Re: 2.0 - its been great so far, my only gripe is that the 3rd party developers have not had time to port their apps over to the new version and there is definitely a lack of software to download. They have replaced installer with Cydia which is still in development so there is no facility to add any additional sources yet.
Otherwise, Exchange works flawlessly, search contacts works well. I do like having the apps store at my fingertips now. and The overall stability seems to be improved (possibly because i have not installed anything other than the apps from Apple's store).
Jul 21, 2008 10:30
khunlouis says...
K. Jesadac - Thank you for feedback - nice! Armed with your experience, my temptation for an iphone just got higher.
I have a thought and not sure how it works in the real world. In the news you hear Apple suing the clone company for copyright infringements. I wonder what happens if the guy who actually did the coding for the Thai keyboard and localising a lot of the iphone found out that Apple used his/her codes in the firmware - can these independent coders sue Apple (if they actually did register their achievements as their intellectual property)? Or are all these hacker already working for Apple?
If I remember correctly we had Thai keyboard, dictionary and many more localised parts of the iphone way before V.2 came out.
Just a thought, though I doubt if any independent coders will actually sue.
Jul 22, 2008 00:04
K. Jesadac - Thank you for feedback - nice! Armed with your experience, my temptation for an iphone just got higher.
I have a thought and not sure how it works in the real world. In the news you hear Apple suing the clone company for copyright infringements. I wonder what happens if the guy who actually did the coding for the Thai keyboard and localising a lot of the iphone found out that Apple used his/her codes in the firmware - can these independent coders sue Apple (if they actually did register their achievements as their intellectual property)? Or are all these hacker already working for Apple?
If I remember correctly we had Thai keyboard, dictionary and many more localised parts of the iphone way before V.2 came out.
Just a thought, though I doubt if any independent coders will actually sue.
Jul 22, 2008 00:04
Jesadac says...
@khunlouis:
I'm not too sure what the legal implications are for an indie developer but I'm sure Apple may have worked something out if they did decide to use his/her work. Possible that they could have said "you accept what we give you in return for your work and we won't come after you for encouraging the breaking of the T&Cs of our software/product by providing localization to a market where we did not intend for it to be sold".
Apple is quite the hypocrite, unfortunately. They will come at anyone who infringes on their IP, but remember, when they released the original iPhone, Cisco already had registered the iPhone name. Apple came along and decided that they will use that name and the rest is history.
Jul 22, 2008 02:55
@khunlouis:
I'm not too sure what the legal implications are for an indie developer but I'm sure Apple may have worked something out if they did decide to use his/her work. Possible that they could have said "you accept what we give you in return for your work and we won't come after you for encouraging the breaking of the T&Cs of our software/product by providing localization to a market where we did not intend for it to be sold".
Apple is quite the hypocrite, unfortunately. They will come at anyone who infringes on their IP, but remember, when they released the original iPhone, Cisco already had registered the iPhone name. Apple came along and decided that they will use that name and the rest is history.
Jul 22, 2008 02:55
Jesadac says...
@Cheewee
" cheewee says...
Even if the iPhone 3G is not launched in Thailand, I am sure you can get one in MBK eventually. "
I was in Central Airport plaza in Chiang Mai today and there were at least two stores which confirmed that the will be getting the iPhone 3G by next month. One of them even went so far as to post a sign in their store front display. None were accepting preorders yet though so I'm assuming that estimated times may change.
They'll most likely come from Hong Kong asia.cnet.com... as that seems to be the only place where you can get one without having to sign a contract, as of now.
Jul 22, 2008 03:01
@Cheewee
" cheewee says...
Even if the iPhone 3G is not launched in Thailand, I am sure you can get one in MBK eventually. "
I was in Central Airport plaza in Chiang Mai today and there were at least two stores which confirmed that the will be getting the iPhone 3G by next month. One of them even went so far as to post a sign in their store front display. None were accepting preorders yet though so I'm assuming that estimated times may change.
They'll most likely come from Hong Kong asia.cnet.com... as that seems to be the only place where you can get one without having to sign a contract, as of now.
Jul 22, 2008 03:01
khunlouis says...
K. Jesadac - Agree. The iPhone example is very clear. I can't see it here, but in my notification you said you saw the iPhone was coming to CM? WOW, that would be great. I am sure it's very expensive and I guess why not as 3G will be tested there. I wonder if there are shops in Phuket offering the same?
Oh...boys with toys.
Jul 22, 2008 09:49
K. Jesadac - Agree. The iPhone example is very clear. I can't see it here, but in my notification you said you saw the iPhone was coming to CM? WOW, that would be great. I am sure it's very expensive and I guess why not as 3G will be tested there. I wonder if there are shops in Phuket offering the same?
Oh...boys with toys.
Jul 22, 2008 09:49
Jesadac says...
@khunlouis: Looks like my post may have been a bit too long or contained some invalid characters :S
Anyway, I'm sure that it'll be available all over as the original iPhone was made available bak last year. It won't need 3G to work as it will just switch to regular old 2.5G EDGE. I just hope it won't be extortion pricing like it was the first time around. The MBK shops were asking up to 35k THB when it first came out, over twice the US$ price.
Now, how do I convince my wife that I need an iPhone 3G to make our life more enjoyable. LOL.
Jul 22, 2008 10:38
@khunlouis: Looks like my post may have been a bit too long or contained some invalid characters :S
Anyway, I'm sure that it'll be available all over as the original iPhone was made available bak last year. It won't need 3G to work as it will just switch to regular old 2.5G EDGE. I just hope it won't be extortion pricing like it was the first time around. The MBK shops were asking up to 35k THB when it first came out, over twice the US$ price.
Now, how do I convince my wife that I need an iPhone 3G to make our life more enjoyable. LOL.
Jul 22, 2008 10:38
khunlouis says...
I think we have a common issue here, may be we should start a blog or a poll for the best excuse to tell your wife why you need an iphone? I was just going through that earlier this week.
I read somewhere on this site that in HK, the phone will cost around $1,000 US for the phone off contract? Makes your figure very realistic. Thanks but not thanks :)
On another note, do you think any other company apart from Apple can make a mobile phone hype like the iphone? I can't think of Nokia or the any of the other big mobile companies creating such a hype, even with new developments in software store or maps, features, music store.
Or is the fact that iTunes worked so well for Apple that iphone became a more complete solution?
Jul 24, 2008 23:21
I think we have a common issue here, may be we should start a blog or a poll for the best excuse to tell your wife why you need an iphone? I was just going through that earlier this week.
I read somewhere on this site that in HK, the phone will cost around $1,000 US for the phone off contract? Makes your figure very realistic. Thanks but not thanks :)
On another note, do you think any other company apart from Apple can make a mobile phone hype like the iphone? I can't think of Nokia or the any of the other big mobile companies creating such a hype, even with new developments in software store or maps, features, music store.
Or is the fact that iTunes worked so well for Apple that iphone became a more complete solution?
Jul 24, 2008 23:21
Jesadac says...
In my opinion, the only reason that Apple have so much hype around their products is their ability to maintain a high level of secrecy around their products, well, at least until the iPhone came along. There was so much speculation about its features that there was really nothing that was not mentioned in various blogs. The major part of their success is their software. The iPhone is beat out by my some of the oldest camera phones in feature, but ease of use has opened up their product to even those who could care less about gadgets.
Anyway, it seemed that the Motorola RAZR caused a similar hype, though not to this extent. Any company that comes along with ground breaking features or design will surely cause a stir. Unfortunately, with this product, Apple (arguably) has set the bar quite high with features, such as multi-touch and screen auto rotation, that other manufacturers have little choice but to also drink the Kool-aid. Black Berry, Nokia, even HTC have all released or are about to release a touch screen phone in a similar minimalist design, all attempting to emulate what Apple has achieved.
Personally, I'm expecting the next best thing to come from Sony Ericsson. Maybe a PSP-Phone. They've the technology to work with, its just a matter of putting together the right features into one product. Nokia has great hardware, unfortunately their software has been some what lacking. N-Gage is laughable
Jul 24, 2008 23:41
In my opinion, the only reason that Apple have so much hype around their products is their ability to maintain a high level of secrecy around their products, well, at least until the iPhone came along. There was so much speculation about its features that there was really nothing that was not mentioned in various blogs. The major part of their success is their software. The iPhone is beat out by my some of the oldest camera phones in feature, but ease of use has opened up their product to even those who could care less about gadgets.
Anyway, it seemed that the Motorola RAZR caused a similar hype, though not to this extent. Any company that comes along with ground breaking features or design will surely cause a stir. Unfortunately, with this product, Apple (arguably) has set the bar quite high with features, such as multi-touch and screen auto rotation, that other manufacturers have little choice but to also drink the Kool-aid. Black Berry, Nokia, even HTC have all released or are about to release a touch screen phone in a similar minimalist design, all attempting to emulate what Apple has achieved.
Personally, I'm expecting the next best thing to come from Sony Ericsson. Maybe a PSP-Phone. They've the technology to work with, its just a matter of putting together the right features into one product. Nokia has great hardware, unfortunately their software has been some what lacking. N-Gage is laughable
Jul 24, 2008 23:41
khunlouis says...
PSP phone should be interesting. I think Sony has a lot of nice design and gadgets, just that the software lets half of it down. I am sure it works, it's good, but some how, I think not as refined as something from Apple (not saying it's perfect).
I can remember reading someone from Microsoft commenting on the original iphone before it's launch that it won't really work and things like that. Okay Windows Mobile are still the bigger player out there, but look how many companies have to sell it to rack up the numbers? But like you said, now companies are modifying the interface to be more like the iphone - and unfortunately for those companies, I think Apple did quite a nice job in the GUI making all other late comers look and feel like the iphone even though it may be different.
BlackBerry, now that's one phone I really don't know or should I say understand what the hype is about. They say it's good, stable and has push. And?? I tried using it once and may be I am not the brightest guy out here, but it was not that easy to use. But my friends who use it says it's the best phone.
I just checked out a local iphone blog here in Thailand (not sure if we can post links here as they also have market place section) and one guy who post himself as an iphone dealer here is selling iphone 3G 8G/40-42K and 16G/45-47K Hello??!! He claims this is his third lot! WOW!
Jul 25, 2008 00:10
PSP phone should be interesting. I think Sony has a lot of nice design and gadgets, just that the software lets half of it down. I am sure it works, it's good, but some how, I think not as refined as something from Apple (not saying it's perfect).
I can remember reading someone from Microsoft commenting on the original iphone before it's launch that it won't really work and things like that. Okay Windows Mobile are still the bigger player out there, but look how many companies have to sell it to rack up the numbers? But like you said, now companies are modifying the interface to be more like the iphone - and unfortunately for those companies, I think Apple did quite a nice job in the GUI making all other late comers look and feel like the iphone even though it may be different.
BlackBerry, now that's one phone I really don't know or should I say understand what the hype is about. They say it's good, stable and has push. And?? I tried using it once and may be I am not the brightest guy out here, but it was not that easy to use. But my friends who use it says it's the best phone.
I just checked out a local iphone blog here in Thailand (not sure if we can post links here as they also have market place section) and one guy who post himself as an iphone dealer here is selling iphone 3G 8G/40-42K and 16G/45-47K Hello??!! He claims this is his third lot! WOW!
Jul 25, 2008 00:10
Jesadac says...
3G 8G/40-42K and 16G/45-47K Hello??!! He claims this is his third lot!
Holy !@#@!#$#@$!$!#$!!!!!!!!!
Jul 25, 2008 00:37
3G 8G/40-42K and 16G/45-47K Hello??!! He claims this is his third lot!
Holy !@#@!#$#@$!$!#$!!!!!!!!!
Jul 25, 2008 00:37
Jesadac says...
Hi Khunlouis,
Looks like some of the guys on the ThaiVisa site have been scouting MBK and have found some shops claiming to have the 3Gs available. www.thaivisa.com...
However, since the unlock is still not ready I'm not confident that these shops really do have them in yet. If they did jump the gun, you may be able to score one cheaply if you can convince the guy/girl at the shop that an unlock in still a long ways in the making and best to sell it to you at a slight loss than not be able to sell it at all (wink wink).
In other news, it looks like the Pwnage tool still works even for the newly released 2.1 update.
Jul 27, 2008 00:36
Hi Khunlouis,
Looks like some of the guys on the ThaiVisa site have been scouting MBK and have found some shops claiming to have the 3Gs available. www.thaivisa.com...
However, since the unlock is still not ready I'm not confident that these shops really do have them in yet. If they did jump the gun, you may be able to score one cheaply if you can convince the guy/girl at the shop that an unlock in still a long ways in the making and best to sell it to you at a slight loss than not be able to sell it at all (wink wink).
In other news, it looks like the Pwnage tool still works even for the newly released 2.1 update.
Jul 27, 2008 00:36
khunlouis says...
Jesadac: the site I mentioned now even has the 3G with a special sim- X-sim or something like that. Apparently it will piggy back on the sim card and fools the iphone that it's on the correct network. The poster claims it works with DTAC and sells the machine (16G) for 45K. I think I will wait for the hype to cool down a bit and did I hear correctly that they will be selling unlocked iphones now in certain places like the US and some other countries?
2.1 should be an interesting update. The question is, when it comes to it, will you pay 30+K for an iphone legit or not?
Jul 27, 2008 02:28
Jesadac: the site I mentioned now even has the 3G with a special sim- X-sim or something like that. Apparently it will piggy back on the sim card and fools the iphone that it's on the correct network. The poster claims it works with DTAC and sells the machine (16G) for 45K. I think I will wait for the hype to cool down a bit and did I hear correctly that they will be selling unlocked iphones now in certain places like the US and some other countries?
2.1 should be an interesting update. The question is, when it comes to it, will you pay 30+K for an iphone legit or not?
Jul 27, 2008 02:28
Jesadac says...
Looks like they're using the Brazilian method. I heard that the SIM adapter itself is as expensive as the iPhone.
Re: The unlocked phones. Yes, you heard correctly, AT&T and O2 (to name a few) have stated "later in the year" for Pay-as-you-go releases which does not bind you to any specific contract. However, I'm not sure if they will be unlocked or not though. Of course, there are other carriers like 3 in HK who sell them unlocked now and In Australia, where you can pay a small fee to unlock the phone but a slightly larger fee for early termination of contract.
Jul 27, 2008 09:03
Looks like they're using the Brazilian method. I heard that the SIM adapter itself is as expensive as the iPhone.
Re: The unlocked phones. Yes, you heard correctly, AT&T and O2 (to name a few) have stated "later in the year" for Pay-as-you-go releases which does not bind you to any specific contract. However, I'm not sure if they will be unlocked or not though. Of course, there are other carriers like 3 in HK who sell them unlocked now and In Australia, where you can pay a small fee to unlock the phone but a slightly larger fee for early termination of contract.
Jul 27, 2008 09:03
Jesadac says...
Looks like plans for TOT's infrastructure deployment for 3G has been approved by the cabinet. A few more hurdles and it looks like we'll have a network deployed during the 2009-2011 timeframe. Looks like khunlouis is spot on with his V3 prediction!
Aug 06, 2008 23:46
Looks like plans for TOT's infrastructure deployment for 3G has been approved by the cabinet. A few more hurdles and it looks like we'll have a network deployed during the 2009-2011 timeframe. Looks like khunlouis is spot on with his V3 prediction!
Aug 06, 2008 23:46
khunlouis says...
Thanks K. Jesadac. I have not been following the news, but it's good news! Finally when the rest of the world is at 3.5 and 4G we will get 3G. I guess better late than never.
I just have this suspicious feeling that there is going to be a technical issue and the frequencies used will not be commercial ones...something like CDMA kind of thing just to make it difficult for users and operators....but then my lack of understanding for the technology may be the cause of this believe.
Aug 07, 2008 11:02
Thanks K. Jesadac. I have not been following the news, but it's good news! Finally when the rest of the world is at 3.5 and 4G we will get 3G. I guess better late than never.
I just have this suspicious feeling that there is going to be a technical issue and the frequencies used will not be commercial ones...something like CDMA kind of thing just to make it difficult for users and operators....but then my lack of understanding for the technology may be the cause of this believe.
Aug 07, 2008 11:02
isaac976 says...
so any update if MBK has brought in the 3G iphone ? friends going there pretty soon , might get one if its within budget and cracked ..
Sep 06, 2008 13:23
so any update if MBK has brought in the 3G iphone ? friends going there pretty soon , might get one if its within budget and cracked ..
Sep 06, 2008 13:23
Jesadac says...
Hi isaac976, sorry for the late reply, i've been away for a few days. I've seen a few shops posting signs offering the 3G but the crack is still not out there, at least not from the iphone dev team. As Victor wrote in his blog, you can probably get one imported from HK. O2 in the UK are also getting ready to release a Pay as you go version which could possibly be unlocked as well.
Sep 10, 2008 12:56
Hi isaac976, sorry for the late reply, i've been away for a few days. I've seen a few shops posting signs offering the 3G but the crack is still not out there, at least not from the iphone dev team. As Victor wrote in his blog, you can probably get one imported from HK. O2 in the UK are also getting ready to release a Pay as you go version which could possibly be unlocked as well.
Sep 10, 2008 12:56
Jesadac says...
I may be kicking a dead horse here but I gotta so this...
I WAS RIGHT!!!!!!
Nov 22, 2008 21:48
I may be kicking a dead horse here but I gotta so this...
I WAS RIGHT!!!!!!
Nov 22, 2008 21:48
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About Jesada Chandraprasert
A firm believer that he/she who dies with the most toys wins.
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