Posts in Mobile Phones
iPhone apps: Try before you buy
Rafe Needleman | Jun 21, 2007
You don't need an iPhone to try out iPhone apps. Since the application platform is just a browser, you can see right now how some of the apps that people are building will look on your phone.
We've covered Digg and OneTrip already, but to see even more iPhone apps all together on one page, check out iPhoneApplicationList. For best results you should use Safari, although I've also had good luck previewing iPhone apps in Firefox.
Since the apps are just Web pages, no doubt there will be many, many iPhone app directories springing up soon.
Via CNET Crave
Digital Concierge for you?
Stephen Tong | Jun 20, 2007
CommunicAsia 2007 saw the pilot launch of the Digital Concierge service that is a joint project of Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) and Singapore Tourism Board (STB). In a nutshell, detailed information on Singapore landmarks such as hotels, shops and places of worship can be conveniently made available through a mobile phone.
To summarize the information that Digital Concierge provides, users can have access to on-the-go directory searching, location maps, daily news, currency conversion and weather reports. Other options that are expected in the near future will include assisted taxi/event booking, traveler recommendations on items such as food, and location-based services such as shopping offers. This service clearly targets tourists who may be clueless as to where to roam around, although locals might find this useful to sussing out parts of Singapore they have not visited.
The platform, which is developed by a group led by Frontline and The Cell City, currently supports only selected mobile devices such as the Sony Ericsson K800i and Nokia N73, but more models are expected to added to the list. Data is transmitted via 3G, GPRS or Wireless@SG networks which basically provides 512kbps Wi-Fi Internet access in selected areas within Singapore.
The event kicks off Digital Concierge's pilot run where users can register and test the platform. It is expected to launch islandwide by 2008. Registration is free and charges will apply upon 3G and GPRS usage. Should people use Wireless@SG, then the service will essentially be free of charge. But, of course, don't forget to get a phone with Wi-Fi support.
More CommunicAsia 2007 coverage here.
One feature-packed rearview mirror coming up
Stephen Tong | Jun 20, 2007
Sonor has come up with a feature-packed rearview mirror that's simply called the Bluetooth Hands Free Carkit With Parking Video. While you have probably seen products like these that sport caller information on the display, this goes one up by including both a camera to place in any angle you want and a earpiece.
For starters, this multifeatured model makes use of various technologies such as Bluetooth and FM transmission to good effect. Bluetooth sets up the link with your mobile phone, while the inbuilt speakers and microphone allow everyone in the car to teleconference with the person on the opposite end. Privacy is sometimes need. As such, the user needs to remove the earpiece that receives FM transmissions from the mirror. Oh, and to make it really convenient, it's magnetically attached to the right side of the console.
A 12-digit caller ID indicator, at a glance, will show who is calling you. In addition, the "With Parking Video" portion of the model name actually refers to a camera that is linked to the mirror which can be placed anywhere in the car. Ideally, the cam is to pointed toward your rear bumper to ensure that the driver doesn't hit the car behind. This is great for those who can't parallel park very well. Of course, the image that is reflected on your display can be toggled on/off to avoid any form of distraction when you are driving.
The rearview mirror is a relatively new technology, though the folks we talked to, WE Business Technology, mentioned that China, Thailand and South Korea have seen the likes of it since the start of 2007. It may very well hit Singapore shores as we're told the company is seeking local distributors.
More CommunicAsia 2007 coverage here.
Bluetooth headset for your fixed line
Darius Chang | Jun 20, 2007
If you are one of those who use fixed lines as often as your mobile phone, then Plantronics has a Bluetooth headset solution for you.
The Platronics Voyager 510SL is a combination Bluetooth earpiece and base station. The headset is programmed for multipoint connections, which allow you to pair with your mobile as well as the base. By hooking up the latter with your fixed-line phone, you can use the headset for any calls coming in from either the handset or home phone. The Voyager 510SL is also equipped with a noise cancellation microphone, providing clear communication even in loud environments.
The Plantronics Voyager 510SL is available now but does not come cheap at US$379.95 (S$583.51). However, if the base station is not needed, the Voyager 510 Bluetooth earpiece can be purchased separately for US$99.95 (S$153.50).
More CommunicAsia 2007 coverage here.
Mask yourself on your mobile
Stephen Tong | Jun 20, 2007
cMask is Singapore's and, supposedly, one of Asia's very first two-way anonymous mobile communications services to allow chatting via SMS or voice call. From a consumer perspective, dating seems to be one of the obvious uses and it seems that was the idea given that GlobalRoam and Singapore.cupid.com teamed up to introduce cMask.
The dynamics are as follows. Let's take it that "A" wants to contact "B". Now A registers and adds B's real number to cMask, after which A is given an cMask number, which is effectively a random fixed line number. A types the cMask number appended with B's contact number. B then receives the call and sees only the cMask number of A.
Why the need to conceal your identity, you might ask? Well, if B starts pestering A too much, A can simply block B and obviously you won't need to go through the hassle of changing your phone number.
As this is a very new service, users can register their demo accounts for free. The actual launch is currently pending Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) regulatory approval. For the actual usage cost, local incoming and outgoing SMS within Singapore cost S$0.10 each, while text to and from other countries costs S$0.15. Calls to and from other countries vary and can be viewed in detail at cMask's Web site.
| Editors' note:
June 21, 2007--We have amended the text to mention that cMask is a team up of the two mentioned parties and that A is given a cMask number as opposed to an Interactive Voice Response number.
|
More CommunicAsia 2007 coverage here.
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