Monday 29 October 2012

Skype 6 arrives?

May not yet be available worldwide ...
My Skype installation still says that version 5.10 is the latest software and I thought that Skype 6 was still Beta Release. I won't be rushing to upgrade to Skype 6 which is really the first Microsoft version of this popular software.

Skype 6 arrives for Windows and Mac: Skype 6 arrives for Windows and Mac
A new version of Skype was released Wednesday for both Windows and Mac OSX.
The desktop client for the telecommunication software includes a few new upgrades for both operating systems, as well as individual adjustments for Microsoft and Apple desktops.
Windows gets the bulk of the updates, even though a separate Skype client is planned for Windows 8, but Mac users will find some welcome improvements nonetheless.

Skype gets social

The key new feature both versions of Skype will see is the ability to sign up using either a Facebook or Microsoft account. No longer will users have to create a separate Skype account just to use the service, which should make it even easier to start using the service and start connecting. Skype will also integrate with Windows Live Messenger, Outlook and Hotmail to provide a one-stop location where users can instant message with any contacts. There's also promise of the ability to make audio and video calls directly through Windows Live Messenger. However, that feature is still a few weeks away.

More languages, Retina support

The Windows client will also play host to improvements such as a new user interface and improved telemetry. Six more languages - Thai, Croatian, Slovenian, Serbian, Catalan and Slovak - are now included in the Windows version as well, bringing the total tongue count to 38. On the Mac, Skype will finally support the Retina display, which is a huge addition considering Apple just announced a Retina version of its most popular laptop, the 13-inch MacBook ProUsers will also be able to have multiple chat windows open at one time on the Mac, which is a welcome addition according to Skype's feedback. It should be noted there is already an issue with Mountain Lion's compatibility where the image picker doesn't work properly, but that shouldn't stop any user from making calls or engaging in chats.

Top 10 Windows RT Issues

Interested in Windows RT device? - this is a "must read" article ...
Assuming these issues are real, then I have just gone right off Windows RT tablets!

Top 10 biggest drawbacks of Windows RT: Sometimes, new isn't always better. CNET takes you through a few things you'll need to keep in mind before buying a Windows RT device.

Sunday 28 October 2012

Five Windows 8 Training Issues

Windows 8 Start Menu still the main issue ...
Don't be put off that this article is directed at CIOs (Chief Information Officers). I think it "hits the nail on the head" as far as some of the issues that are going to cause consumers the most grief! As for the 5th Issue (The new stuff) it really goes completely over the head of most consumers!

CIOs: Five Windows 8 training issues you need to consider: Scott Lowe discusses five big items that deserve coverage in any windows 8 training program, in order of importance.

Saturday 27 October 2012

iPad Mini / Nexus 7 / Kindle Fire

Here's a tech spec comparison for those interested ... 
If you are not into data sheet comparisons just ignore this post!

iPad Mini vs. Google Nexus 7 vs. Kindle Fire: Wondering how Apple's iPad Mini stacks up against popular 7-inch tablets from Google and Amazon? Here's a tech spec comparison.

Apple iPad mini

More detail on the Apple iPad Mini just released ...
After all the rumours, here it is!

In Depth: iPad mini: 10 things you need to know: In Depth: iPad mini: 10 things you need to know
It's been rumoured for a long time, but it's finally here: the iPad mini exists and it's coming to an Apple Store near you. Smaller than a standard iPad but noticeably bigger than a seven-inch Android tablet, it's the most affordable iPad yet - but will it appeal to you? Here's what you need to know.

1. The iPad mini release date is Nov. 2

We expected the iPad mini to ship in plenty of time for Christmas, and Apple didn't disappoint: the Wi-Fi model will start shipping for delivery on the Nov.2, with the LTE version coming along a few weeks later in late November. Apple will start accepting iPad mini orders on the Oct. 26.

2. The iPad mini price is $329

Prices are slightly higher than anticipated, but it's still the cheapest iPad yet: the Wi-Fi version of the iPad mini starts at $329(GB£269, AU$369) for the 16GB model, rising to $429 (GB£349, AU$479) for the 32GB model and $659(GB£429,AU$589) for the 64GB. As you'd expect the mobile broadband version is more expensive: it's $459(GB£369,AU$509) for 16GB, $559(£449,AU$619) for 32GB and $659(£529,AU$729) for 64GB.

3. The iPad mini screen size is 7.9 inches

Apple clearly believes that seven inches is a little too small for a tablet: the iPad mini has a 7.9-inch backlit IPS display running at a resolution of 1024x768. That gives it the same resolution as an iPad 2, so while it isn't a retina display the smaller screen means it should look much sharper than the iPad 2. The overall dimensions of the iPad mini are 200mm high, 134.7mm wide and 7.2mm deep, and the entire package weighs a titchy 308g.
By keeping the same screen resolution as the iPad 2, the iPad mini will be able to run iPad apps without any horrible rescaling or black bars - and as Phil Schiller showed far more often than was strictly necessary, it delivers significantly more screen real estate than a typical seven-inch device.

4. The iPad mini specifications are similar to the iPad 2

While the fourth generation iPad gets an A6X processor, the iPad mini sports something a bit older: an A5, the same dual-core processor you'll find in the iPad 2 and iPhone 4S. That isn't the very latest Apple processor, but as we know from our iPad 2 it's more than capable of handling even the most demanding apps - and it doesn't need an enormous battery to keep it running.

5. The iPad mini is black, but also white

Rumours of multi-coloured iPad minis proved incorrect: as with its big brother, the iPad mini comes in a choice of white or black, although while the normal iPad has a plain metal back the iPad mini has iPhone 5-style silver and black back covers. Perhaps we'll see multi-coloured cases in next year's inevitable second-gen model.

6. The iPad mini does 4G LTE

Like the iPhone 5, the iPad mini has different versions for different LTE bands: model A1455 will do LTE bands 1, 3, 5, 13 and 25, and model A1454 will work on LTE bands 4 and 7. That means for U.K. users, its model A1455: band 3 is the 1800MHz frequency used by Everything Everywhere's 4G LTE network.

7. You can use it as a camera without embarrassment

The iPad mini has a front-facing 1.2MP camera for FaceTime calls and a 5MP rear-facing camera for still shooting and 1080p HD video recording, and that smaller case won't look as silly when you try and shoot photos with it. There's no flash but the sensor has backside illumination and an f/2.4 aperture for low-light shooting.

8. The iPad mini wireless is dual-band

Both the Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi+Cellular versions of the iPad mini benefit from dual-band Wi-Fi, with support for 802.11a/b/g wireless and 802.11n on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. All iPad minis also get Bluetooth 4.0 for low-power connections to accessories and peripherals.

9. The iPad mini battery is good for all-day use

One of the best things about the iPad is its all-day battery life, and the iPad mini touts 10 hours of battery life from its 16.3-watt-hour lithium polymer battery. On mobile data, Apple reckons you'll get nine hours of web browsing.

10. The iPad mini has a lightning connector

Not a big surprise, we know, but the iPad mini has the same tiny Lightning connector as the iPhone 5 so you'll need an adapter if your existing accessories expect a Dock connector.

Google's Android 4.2

Not to be left out, Google Android products roll out...
With Apple and Microsoft trying to hog the October limelight, Google and its partners roll out the Android goodies!

Google to unveil Android 4.2, Nexus 4 phone, Nexus 10 tablet: LG will produce the smartphone, while the Samsung will make a high-end tablet. Also to debut will be an upgraded version of the Nexus 7.

iPad vs Surface RT

The inevitable comparison ...
A succinct comparison that brings out the key differences between Apple's iPad and Microsoft's Windows RT.

Apple iPad vs. Microsoft Surface RT: The launch of Microsoft's Surface tablet is pointing to one massive tech stoush between two of the biggest tech companies in the world. But loyalties aside, which tablet is right for you?

iFlashdrive iPad and iPhone

Expensive USB drive but it gets around Apple's lack of a USB port ...
I wonder if Apple gets a cut from this hardware manufacturer?

iFlashdrive is like a USB drive for your iPad and iPhone:
iflashdriveOne of the main complaints with Apple’s iPad is that it doesn’t have a USB port to easily view files but a new product called the iFlashdrive solves that problem. The device allows users to save files like a regular USB drive and then view the files on the iPad, iPhone or iPod simply by plugging it in to the 30-pin dock connector. The first time the iFlashdrive is plugged into your iOS device it automatically launches a notification to download the free iFlashdrive app.

Cloud Versus Device

One of many articles to come over the never few years ...
I think this article puts a reasonable perspective on the current situation and I agree with his prognosis for the future, particularly for the consumer!

The Cloud Versus The Device - AAPL, GOOG, MSFT - Foolish Blogging Network:

Sunday 21 October 2012

Windows 8 Baffles Consumers

Microsoft has all its fingers (and toes) crossed at the moment ...
With Windows 8 about to hit the shops this week, there are a lot of articles predicting consumer confusion over the new User Interface.

Early look at Windows 8 baffles consumers | News.com.au:

Barrier Reef Street View

Want to take a walk through the Great Barrier Reef?
Interesting pictures of the Google team photographing the Great Barrier Reef so that you will be able to make your own virtual dive.

How Google is mapping the Great Barrier Reef, in pictures | News.com.au:
Google Maps Great Barrier Reef

Google Drive FAQ

A good introduction to Google Drive ...
The article below is a good overall description of Google Drive. So if you want your free 5GB in the "cloud" then it is worth a read!

The Google Drive FAQ | Internet & Media - CNET News:

Windows 8 vs RT

Differences between Windows 8 and RT again ...
I think there will need to be a degree course in the differences between Windows 8 and Windows RT! A wonderful challenge for Microsoft marketing.

Seven things to consider for a Windows tablet: Come Oct. 26, when Microsoft is set to stage a release party in New York City, consumers may have to choose between a tablet with Windows 8 or Windows RT. The operating systems look and feel the same, but devices will differ on performance, price, battery life, usage and application support.

Windows RT: FAQ

Another example of Microsoft Marketing chaos ...
I think Windows RT (vs Windows 8) is going to cause tremendous confusion in the marketplace, especially when consumers purchase the first Windows RT tablets assuming that they have bought the functionality of the full Windows 8 OS.

Windows RT: FAQ: The "lite" version of Windows 8, known as Windows RT, remains the biggest unknown for many coming to the new OS. Here's our guide to what Windows RT is, how it's different from Windows 8 and WinRT, and what it all means.

iPad Mini Next Week

The iPad Mini is on the way ...
If, after all the rumours, Apple doesn't launch an iPad Mini it is going to be a huge disappointment!

Apple 'to launch iPad mini next week ': APPLE is sending out invitations to reporters for an event next Tuesday, where it's expected to announce the release of a smaller iPad.

Google's Street View Cars

Have you seen vehicles like these in your neighbourhood ...
I am sure I have seen their three wheeler around Cherrybrook!

Get a glimpse of Google's Street View cars: Take a look at the cars responsible for capturing Google's Street View imagery.

Thursday 18 October 2012

Google Data Centres

I frequently get asked "Where are the Google computers"? ...
This article might answer the question. Colourful installations aren't they?

Google reveals 'secret' data centres: GOOGLE has opened a fascinating virtual window into its secretive data centres, where a maze of computers process internet search requests.

Windows 8 Pricing

For those interested in knowing ...
This FAQ answers many questions related to the price of Windows 8 software.

FAQ: The ins and out of Windows 8 pricing: Microsoft and its retail partners revealed a few more details about Windows 8 pricing, clarifying what the Redmond, Wash., developer has purposefully left muddy in the months leading up to its release next week. We try to answer the most-pressing questions.

Wednesday 17 October 2012

Windows 8 vs Windows 7

So after the last few posts, just what are the differences ...
This Techradar article by Dan Grabham gives you the 8 key differences.

Updated: Windows 8 vs Windows 7: 8 ways it's different: Updated: Windows 8 vs Windows 7: 8 ways it's different

Samsung's Windows 8 PCs

Samsung's solution to the missing Start button ...
I guess Samsung will not be the only manufacturer re-inventing the Start button!

Start menu resurfaces on Samsung's Windows 8 PCs: A Quick Starter feature available for Samsung's Windows 8 computers and tablets offers both a Start button and a toolbar.

Windows 8 Start button?

Microsoft has certainly created a talking point ...
The YouTube "What do you think of Windows 8" in this article is definitely worth a look!

Will 'normal' Windows users want a Start button for Win 8?: SweetLabs joins a handful of other companies that are offering to bring the more familiar Start menu/Button back to Windows 8.

MS Surface RT Comments

Detailed comparative pricing of Windows RT Tablet ...
This rather long article has some interesting comments with respect to the Windows RT pricing and the comparison to the existing competition.

Microsoft's Surface RT pricing 'aggressive,' 'mystifying,' say analysts: Microsoft's pricing of its Surface RT tablet was called 'aggressive' by some analysts today, 'mystifying' by others, even as they remained skeptical that it's low enough to make inroads on the dominant player, Apple's iPad.

MS Surface RT Prices

Now we know what a Windows RT Tablet will cost ...
Would appear to be $499 for 32 GB without cover/keyboard or $599 with cover/keyboard.

Microsoft spills Surface RT prices, start at $499: Microsoft today briefly posted prices of $499 to $699 for the Surface tablet, but then pulled the listings from its online store.

Monday 15 October 2012

iPad Mini on October 23?

Still strong rumours but a definite maybe ...
I don't think Apple will want to miss out on what is becoming a very popular tablet size somewhere between a 5" smartphone and a full sized 10" tablet. Look how successful the Google Nexus 7" has been!

iPad Mini to be unveiled on October 23:
ipadmini1The much-rumoured iPad Mini – a 7.85-inch version of the popular full-sized 9.7-inch iPad – will be revealed in a special event on October 23, according to AllThingsDEarlier it was thought Apple would be distributing media invitations on October 10 ahead of an October 17 event but that date passed without a murmur. AllThingsD cited “people familiar with Apple’s plans” as the source for the October 23 iPad Mini reveal which is likely to be held at Apple’s Cupertino headquarters.

Which Windows 8?

Windows 8 RT or Home/Professional?

Which version of Windows 8 should you choose for tablet deployment?: Patrick Gray talks about the two flavours of Windows 8 for tablets, and which you should choose for your organization.

Lenovo takes top spot

This may be a surprise to many people ...
Lenovo produces the well known IBM ThinkPad range of laptops plus desktops and now tablets. They have a prolific range of products and sell direct as well as through the normal retail outlets.

Lenovo takes top spot from HP as PC market slumps: Lenovo has taken the crown from Hewlett-Packard to become the world's top seller of PCs, research firm Gartner said in a study released Wednesday.

Lytro Light Field Camera

Revolutionary photography ...
I think there is a "4" missing from the price of the 8GB version ($499 maybe?) but even so this is a very interesting camera!

Lytro Light Field Camera lets you focus your images after you take them:
lytro2The Lytro Light Field camera is now available in Australia and captures “living pictures” photos that allow you to focus on any part of the image after it’s been taken. Tech Guide has been reviewing the device for a few weeks and it offers an all-new way to capture your images and an even better way to enjoy them after they’ve been taken. Because the camera captures the entire light field, instead of just a single plane of light like a regular camera, users are able to click on various parts of the image to bring that part of the picture into focus.

Saturday 6 October 2012

Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 2

Interesting facts and prices for Windows 8 Tablets ...
Windows 8 Pro on a 10" Tablet running on an Intel Atom processor at 1.86 GHz. It uses existing Windows applications and drivers making it easier to connect to printers and cameras. This should set a challenging new benchmark in the Tablet space!

Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 2 to start at $629: Lenovo's highly anticipated ThinkPad Tablet 2 with Windows 8 will be priced from $629, the company said.

Thursday 4 October 2012

Windows 8 'puzzling, confusing'

Back to that missing Start button on Windows 8 ...
The "double -UI (User Interface)" of Windows 8 is likely to cause the most serious criticism of Windows 8, at least initially. I still cannot understand why Microsoft did not make this user configurable and avoid the angst. 

Microsoft co-founder calls Windows 8 'puzzling, confusing' - Mobile/Wireless, wireless, networking, mobile, Windows, operating systems, software, Microsoft - Computerworld:

$5 buys a Start button

Missing Start button on Windows 8 ...
This could be Stardock's lucky day (or year or decade)! Shame that Microsoft did not make the Start button configurable. They could come to regret that decision!

$5 buys a Start button, Start screen bypass for Windows 8: Stardock yesterday started selling the $5 Start8, a tool that restores a Start button to the desktop of Windows 8.