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• Bing to integrate Facebook friend data
• TechRadar launches new tablet reviews channel
• Nokia denies Microsoft buyout rumours
• iPhone 5 UK release date: 21 November?
• Review: Fujifilm FinePix HS20
• Mass overhaul of digital copyright laws mooted
• Updated: Samsung finally rolling out UK Galaxy S Android 2.3 update
• Review: HTC Flyer
• First Nokia MeeGo handset may launch as N950 next week
• Comet to disappear from UK high streets?
• Nvidia CEO outlines the many reasons for low Android tablet sales
• Nvidia CEO outlines the many reasons for low Android tablet sales
• Samsung solves Galaxy S2 auto-brightness issue
• Updated: Android 2.3 release date: when will you get it?
• Seagate GoFlex Satellite wirelessly boosts iPad storage
• Seagate GoFlex Satellite wirelessly boosts iPad storage
• Review: Pro-Ject Essential
• Vodafone Smart announced - PAYG Android bounces back
• Review: NAD Viso Three
• Updated: iPhone 5 rumours: what you need to know
• Virgin Media to screen French Open live in 3D
• Amazon to unleash family of Android devices?
• Amazon to unleash family of Android devices?
• Review: Lehmann Black Cube Linear USB
• Apple to release iPhone 4S - with 'minor updates'?

Bing to integrate Facebook friend data Posted: 17 May 2011 01:33 AM PDT Microsoft's Bing search engine will integrate data from Facebook to bring more personalised search results. Microsoft is hoping that tying Bing into Facebook will increase the search engine's popularity as it battles it out for market share against Google. Essentially, the search engine will factor in Facebook friend recommendations into its search functionality, to personalise your results Fuelled by emotions? "The best decisions are not just fuelled by facts, they require the opinions and emotions of your friends," said Yusuf Mehdi, senior vice president, Bing. "Search is now more than a fact finder — we're marrying fact-based search results with your friends' street smarts to combine the best data on the Web with the opinions of the people you trust the most and the collective IQ of the Web." With relationships fractious between Facebook and Google at the moment – with bickering over the use of open data turning into unsavoury smear campaigns from the former – Microsoft is keen to take advantage. Splashing the MS cash The Redmond-based software giant is making some massive deals at the current time, using its deep pockets to try to buy market share in key areas such as phone OS (with Nokia), video calls (with the purchase of Skype) and search, with an agreement with China's Baidu coming soon and now a Facebook tie in. "Starting today, you can receive personalized search results based on the opinions of your friends by simply signing into Facebook,"stated the Bing blog. "New features make it easier to see what your Facebook friends "like" across the web, incorporate the collective know-how of the web into your search results, and begin adding a more conversational aspect to your searches. "Decisions can now be made with more than facts, now the opinions of your trusted friends and the collective wisdom of the web." Related Stories In Depth: Social networks of the rich and famous Microsoft closing in on Baidu Bing collaboration Mass overhaul of digital copyright laws mooted

TechRadar launches new tablet reviews channel Posted: 17 May 2011 01:32 AM PDT TechRadar, the UK's leading tech news and reviews site, has launched tablets@techradar, the definitive destination for tablet news, reviews and features. With the burgeoning tablet market set to grow and grow, it only seemed right that we dedicate a section of TechRadar to all things slate-related. Sponsored by HTC, the channel is packed with tablet news, as well as in-depth expert reviews of all the latest tablets. Tablets@techradar has been designed to make it your tablet buying decision easy as possible. Apple may have kick-started the tablet revolution with the iPad 2, but with many more Android devices coming out and the arrival of tablets from big-name companies like the Samsung Galaxy Tab, The BlackBerry PlayBook and LG Optimus Pad, there's more choice than ever before. Whether by price or by brand, you can easily search and find out everything you need to know in our extensive reviews database. So head over to tablets@techradar and check out the new tablets channel now. Related Stories RIM recalls BlackBerry PlayBooks over software fault

Nokia denies Microsoft buyout rumours Posted: 16 May 2011 10:19 AM PDT A senior executive at Nokia has responded to rumours that Microsoft is readying a bid for the mobile arm of the Finnish company, saying they were wide of the mark. Nokia and Microsoft decided to partner up back in February in a bid to take on Android. So far we have not seen this partnership bear fruit, but from day one there was speculation that this could be more than just strategic – a test bed for Microsoft taking Nokia under its wing. News today that Nokia was getting rid of the Ovi brand and sticking with just Nokia has fuelled speculation that a takeover was on the cards, with Nokia know-it-all Eladr Murtazin saying in a blog (which was translated from Russian by Unwired View): "Next week Nokia will start the negotiations about the sale of its phone unit to Microsoft. "For now the results of the negotiations won't be public, but the deal might close before the end of 2011. Both companies are in a big hurry." Buy out (of the question?) Microsoft has been spending big recently, acquiring Skype for a cool $8.5 billion. Seeing as this was a cash offer, we have a feeling Ballmer and co have enough in the coffers to claim Nokia for their own. Mark Squires, UK Nokia PR, has tried to quash rumours, however, writing on his Twitter account: "We typically don't comment on rumors. But we have to say that Eldar's rumours are getting obviously less accurate with every passing moment." So, denial from Nokia but this hasn't stopped the rumour mill going into overtime. Related Stories Kodak wins lawsuit against Apple over camera tech Apple to release iPhone 4S - with 'minor updates'? Vodafone Smart announced - PAYG Android bounces back Updated: Samsung finally rolling out UK Galaxy S Android 2.3 update Samsung solves Galaxy S2 auto-brightness issue

iPhone 5 UK release date: 21 November? Posted: 16 May 2011 10:10 AM PDT Phones4U has let slip that the fifth generation iPhone will hit the shelves on 21 November 2011. This new date thrown out by Phones4U's anonymous representative while speaking to TechRadar BFF T3 ties in quite nicely with speculation that Apple is delaying the next iPhone launch until September; usually new iPhone hardware is revealed in June. Questions also remain as to what we'll be calling the next Apple smartphone – will it be the iPhone 5? Or the iPhone 4S, as mooted by an analyst earlier today? Or perhaps something else entirely. The excitement on this issue is palpable. iPhones4U The iPhone 4S is rumoured to bring small updates the iPhone 4, bringing a better processor, cameras, "minor cosmetic changes" and HSPA+ support. Despite the apparently negligible upgrades which you might think suggest a June release, Apple appears to be having supply issues following recent events in Japan, and could delay the next iPhone until things are back on an even keel. While iPhone 5 rumours have been milled to the point that we could probably make bread with them if we wanted, Phones4U's proclamation still gives us no clear answer to the question of whether we'll see a new iPhone launch at WWDC next month, and probably won't be until that thrilling 'one more thing' moment. Related Stories Updated: Android 2.3 release date: when will you get it? First Nokia MeeGo handset may launch as N950 next week

Review: Fujifilm FinePix HS20 Posted: 16 May 2011 07:59 AM PDT Fuji HS20 review: Overview The new FinePix HS20 enters the super zoom market as a replacement for the once popular HS10. Sporting a handful of similar attributes to the HS10, including manual and semi-manual shooting modes, the HS20 is aimed at those who desire a camera with heighted technology that can produce the same picture quality of a DSLR in a trimmed down body, all at a more affordable price tag. Retailing at £430 however, the HS20 could cost consumers more than some entry-level DSLRs, but with a bumper selection of advanced specs on offer perhaps the new Fujifilm could make a more enticing buy for amateur enthusiasts not ready to up the ante to the DSLR platform. In many respects avid camera-lovers may not notice a great deal of difference between the new HS20 and its predecessor at first; especially as both units boast the same: 30x zoom offering an impressive focal range of 24mm wide angle to 720mm telephoto, external aesthetics, free angle LCD, full 1080 HD movie recording mode, motion panorama and power source of AA batteries. Dig a little deeper and we discover a roll-call of features that would make most its swoon: an improved pixel count of 16 million, extended dynamic range of up to 1600%, 27 scene modes, a Photobook Assist function, supports TTL flash, is SDXC compatible, offers film simulation effects and an improved 360 degree Motion Panorama mode, boasts the inclusion of a new EXR processing engine and delivers high speed continuous shooting providing full resolution images at 8 frames per second and 11 frames per second at 8MP. Image stabilisation is provided in a three-fold-action plan that aims to reduce user confusion as well as camera shake. The manufacturer claims that firstly the EXR CMOS sensor moves during exposure to eradicate shake, and employs Pixel Fusion to increase sensitivity and boost shutter speeds. As a final measure the EXR Auto option promises to deliver Advanced Anti-blur technology that sees four shots taken in succession combined to deliver one shake-free image. Fuji HS20 review: Build and handling On first viewing the HS20 looks uncannily similar to last year's model with its DSLR-wannabe appearance, copycat dimensions of130.6 x 90.7 x 126mm, 30x zoom lens with manual focus ring, sturdy protruding hand-grip and 3" tilting rear LCD. However, like its feature package the HS20's design aims to improve and here we see the LCD offering 97% field of view and doubling its predecessor's dot count – so that the new LCD boasts 460k dots. As good as that sounds, an increasing number of recently launched bridges and indeed some – high-end compacts now offer 920k dots with the ability to vary brightness and contrast. As handy as the tilting feature is on the HS20 it really lacks the flexibility, witnessed on some Olympus and Sony cameras for instance, to make it the stand-out feature Fujifilm perhaps had in mind. For example when shooting in landscape format the screen can be pulled out and moved up and down – making it handy for shooting overhead, at hip level or even on the ground. However, when shooting in portrait format the LCD cannot be twisted to provide higher and lower positions, so its lack of flexibility means that it can only be moved several centimetres left or right – and vice versa. So although it goes some way to aiding composition and reducing some viewing issues in harsh light, many users may find it limited in use. Hopefully the next generation of Fujifilm super zoom cameras will extend the screen's reach and flexibility further to make it a real competitor in this field. Weighing 730g when fully loaded, the HS20 isn't heavy in the hand yet feels reassuringly durable and solid – however this could be due to its stockiness which compared to some entry-level DSLRs, looks a little paunchy. Buttons and short-cut controls litter the camera surface like acne, which may please some shooters who like to have every variable in fingers reach, but the sheer volume and assortment of controls could overwhelm novices. The shooting dial is packed with options; including several auto modes as well as manual and semi-manual controls for those who hunger for more control. A one- touch movie record button is positioned in perfect reach of the photographer's thumb and delivers full HD 1080 30 fps with stereo sound, as well as other High Speed Movie options, which include 320 x 112 pixel capture at 320 fps or 640 x 480 pixel capture at 80fps, options that allow users to get creative with movie-capture be it in high-definition or super-slow motion, what's more users can capture video in lower light thanks to the inclusion of the EXR HD Movie mode.These one touch facilities are effortlessly simple to affect and are sure to make the HS20 a viable option for video-makers as well as photographers. The in-camera menu and display user face have had a notable revamp to improve navigation, and whilst on the whole it promotes a logical layout there are a few irksome problems that mark its overall handling down, for example in Display, users can either bring up the framing grid or the histogram – but not both at the same time. Elsewhere we found the processing speed of the HS20 to be slower than expected, with RAW files taking over a second to complete. Fuji HS20 review: Performance Throughout our testing of the HS20; investigating all of its scene modes, effects and auto technology we found that on the whole the camera has a slight tendency to overexpose captures; diluting colour, texture and definition. However a shortcut exposure compensation button has been included on the top of the camera – in between the shooting dial and on/off switch for users to quickly adjust exposure as needed and a range of manual and semi-manual controls mean users can tweak exposure to perfection once more confident. A selection of metering options are provided in the form of multi, spot and average and again a dedicated shortcut key is provide to maximise ease of use, yet as summarised previously we did find the camera to be slightly off kilter during use in auto modes. White balance on the whole was of a good standard, but if we were being picky we would point out that with the issues of overexposure in auto modes the colour replication wasn't as spot on as we'd have expected for a camera of this price – as the colours produced lacked the vivacity and depth they presented in reality. What is good, however, is that users can access a catalogue of Film Simulation effects and opt for the 'Vivid' option to pump up hues when needed. The dynamic range provided is impressive as we would have perhaps expected being able to offer 1600%, yet we did find on the whole images perhaps lacked that level of contrast needed to add punch to the picture; especially evident in those frames affected with a B&W or Sepia filter. Despite provisions made by Fuji we discovered some minor levels of fringing present in higher contrast situations when the images were viewed at closer inspections. However these are no worse than those seen on competitor models and are certainly less obvious than those generated using most compacts. Whilst we appreciated the more than healthy focal range we found that auto-focus struggled to lock onto subjects at the telephoto end and hunted for its prey rather noisily. Likewise, whilst we had no problems locking focus in Macro mode, Super Macro mode proved more of a challenge – often claiming to have locked focus when the results in playback proved otherwise. We were impressed by the camera's AF tracking which prevailed in a great variety of occasions and the also the cameras three fold image stabilisation plan – which for the most part worked without issue. In terms of noise we found the camera's sensitivity range was more than adequate up to ISO 800. At ISO 1600 the results were still usable but coloured pixels begun to creep into the shadows and there was evidence of compromised definition. At ISO 3200 the whole image takes on a mottled grey tinge with noise becoming uncomfortable which is exaggerated further at ISO 6400, and thus colours and details become awkwardly distorted at ISO 12800. Comparatively however, the ISO performance of the HS20 is certainly within the same performance levels of its competitors. Fuji HS20 review: Image quality and resolution As part of our test we shoot our resolution chart at every sensitivity setting. The higher the value quoted in the caption score, the greater the level of detail being resolved and the better the image quality. If you view our crops of the resolution chart's central section at 100% (or Actual Pixels) you will see that, for example, at ISO 100 the Fuji HS20 is capable of resolving up to around 18 (line widths per picture height x100) in its highest quality JPEG files. Examining images of the chart taken at each sensitivity setting reveals the following resolution scores in line widths per picture height x100: JPEGS ISO 100, score: 18 ISO 200, score: 18 ISO 400, score: 18 ISO 800, score: 16 ISO 1600, score: 14 ISO 3200, score: 12 ISO 6400, score: 12 ISO 12,800, score: - Raw images Raw ISO 100, score: 18 Raw ISO 200, score: 18 Raw ISO 400, score: 18 Raw ISO 800, score: 16 Raw ISO 1600, score: 14 Raw ISO 3200, score: 14 Fuji HS20 review: Sensitivity images JPEG ISO 100 JPEG ISO 200 JPEG ISO 400 JPEG ISO 800 JPEG ISO 1600 JPEG ISO 3200 JPEG ISO 6400 JPEG ISO 12,800 Fuji HS20 review: Our sample images Although the film simulations effects are a great boon for creative photographers – we found using these options in auto the resulting images lacked the contrast necessary to evoke the emotion intended. Above: Standard film simulation mode The HS20 provides a modest set of filter effects including: Soft, Vivid, B&W and Sepia. We found that using the Vivid setting really helped to inject vivacity when using auto modes; as the camera's tendency to overexposure robbed scenes of the natural rich colour and definition. Above: Vivid film simulation mode Although the Auto Focus hunts at volume, the results whilst tracking subjects was very impressive. These flowers were swaying erratically in the wind yet the HS20 reproduced the subject in clean and crisp definition. Whilst the camera performed to expectation in manual commands, we discovered that scenes captured in auto modes were slightly overexposed; diluting colours and definition. See full panorama One of the HS20's best features is its improved 360 degree panorama mode that records the image as the photographer sweeps round in a circle; automatically stitching the result in camera. On the whole we found little to complain about in regards of focus, however on the odd occasion we discovered that although the HS20 claimed to have locked focus on subjects in Super Macro mode – the results proved otherwise. Fuji HS20 review: Our verdict At £430 some may argue that the HS20 is a little over priced for the quality of images it produces, yet its wealth of high-end specs certainly do well to dilute any qualms. Ideally Fujifilm wanted to create an easy-to-use super zoom camera, packed full of fun and creative features which ultimately produces a higher level of picture quality. What they have in fact achieved is a feature-filled super zoom that does produce stellar images when used manually, but may provide disappointing results for those shooters content with using auto commands. We liked In terms of incorporated features the HS20 easily impresses with its: movie-making options, RAW compatibility, battery life, AF tracking, image stabilisation and improved 360 panorama mode. We disliked Relatively speaking the HS20 failed to impress in terms of picture quality when shooting in scene or auto modes. However there are several ways users can eradicate these problems with a little manual investigation. Fuji HS20 review: Specification Sensor: 1/2" type back-illuminated EXR-CMOS (16MP) Lens: 4.2mm - 126mm, 30x optical zoom (24-720mm; 35mm equivalent) Memory: Internal memory (Approx. 20MB)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I) memory card Viewfinder: EVF and LCD Video resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels (30 fps) 1280 x 720 pixels (60 fps) 640 x 480 pixels (30 fps) ISO range: Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800 Focus modes: Contrast Detect (sensor), Multi-area, Centre, Tracking, Single, Continuous, Face Detection, Live View, Manual Max burst rate: 8fps (16mp) LCD: 3" TFT Colour LCD, 460,000 dots Shutter speeds: 30 - 1/4000 sec Weight: 730g Dimensions: 130.6 (W) × 90.7 (H) × 126.0 (D) mm Power supply: 4 AA batteries

Mass overhaul of digital copyright laws mooted Posted: 16 May 2011 07:54 AM PDT The Hargreaves Report on Intellectual Property is set to be published this week, making recommendations to the government regarding online rights for creators of music, images and other digital content in the UK. The report's recommendations will affect how companies and the media can use digital music, video and images and all manner of other content published online. Elements of the report (named for its author, government-appointed Professor Ian Hargreaves) have been leaked to the Financial Times today, showing that it will suggest an online copyright exchange system to act as a 'one-stop online shop' for copyright clearance. Swapsies This would provide a central destination (eg a dedicated website) for businesses hoping to use copyrighted music or video content to find out who owns the rights, as well as make it easier for content creators to protect their work. According to the FT, the Hargreaves Report intends the exchange to become "a one-stop online shop for clearing the use of copyright content". The review will state, "The prize is to build on the UK's current competitive advantage in creative content to become a leader in licensing services for global content markets; in short to make the UK the best place in the world to do business in digital content." However, it remains to be seen how keen labels, movie studios and photography libraries are to give such easy access to their digital content, as well as sitting side-by-side with competitors. Video killed the radio tsar While the report goes on to suggest that 'the industry' (which industry isn't clarified) be allowed to set up and manage the exchange, it also recommends a government-appointed 'digital tsar' oversee the process and encourage other copyright holders to join the collective. According to the Report, this will result in improved exposure for digital works, a platform to establish ownership of rights and more clarity on the legality of licensing copyright material. In other news, the Hargreaves Report is also set to recommend that UK copyright law be dragged into the 21st century, by making it no longer illegal to transfer music from a CD to a computer or MP3 player. Related Stories In Depth: Social networks of the rich and famous Microsoft closing in on Baidu Bing collaboration Bing to integrate Facebook friend data

Updated: Samsung finally rolling out UK Galaxy S Android 2.3 update Posted: 16 May 2011 07:30 AM PDT Samsung has announced it will be re-rolling out the Galaxy S Android 2.3 update in the near future. The Korean brand has confirmed it will be bringing the Gingerbread update to theGalaxy Ace, Gio, Fit, Mini and Galaxy Tab as well as the Galaxy S. As many Galaxy S owners might remember, the Android 2.3 update landed last month for Vodafone customers but was halted by Samsung after rumours that parts of the new OS were causing the platform to fail. Back from the dead The new update is set to come to the UK as one of the first markets in 'mid-May', so we can only assume the upgrade will be landing any moment now. UPDATE: Samsung has got in contact with us to say that the new update will be hitting the UK in 'late May'. It seems the update has been pushed back slightly as a number of users have reported being able to download the software, only for the process to fail halfway through and then no new firmware being available suddenly. Samsung recently told TechRadar that it will be speeding up its Android software upgrade process after it came under criticism for the length of time it takes to get each update onto handsets, so the brand will be keen to sort out the issue as soon as possible. The update is still only available via PC connection through the maligned Kies software, so we'll let you know when users start seeing a new upgrade available on their Galaxy S. Related Stories Kodak wins lawsuit against Apple over camera tech Apple to release iPhone 4S - with 'minor updates'? Vodafone Smart announced - PAYG Android bounces back Samsung solves Galaxy S2 auto-brightness issue Nokia denies Microsoft buyout rumours

Review: HTC Flyer Posted: 16 May 2011 07:11 AM PDT HTC has always stood out among the raft of Android phone manufacturers. The company's been partnering with Google since the start, but still forges its own style, which has won it a lot of fans. Now that Android is a major tablet OS, with Android 3.0 appearing on the likes of the Motorola Xoom and Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V, HTC is still staying separate from the crowd. The most notable change from the norm is the 7-inch screen and the touchscreen stylus, known officially as the Magic Pen. It connects wirelessly to the Flyer, and enables you to annotate, highlight and erase in supported apps. It offers a measure of pressure sensitivity (unlike most styluses on capacitive screens), so may pique the interest of artists. Instead of Android 3.0, the Flyer uses Android 2.3.3, skinned with HTC's familiar Sense UI. In this case, it's Sense 2.1 for Tablet. We'll go into more detail about exactly what that means on the third page, but for now we'll just say it's HTC's way of trying make a version of Android designed for phones work a little better on larger screens. Instead of the dual-core processors that have quickly become the standard for new tablets (particularly Nvidia's Tegra 2), HTC has gone for a single-core processor with a higher clock speed. The CPU is paired with 1GB of RAM, so there's great potential for multitasking. There's a five-megapixel rear camera, as well as a 1.3MP front-facing camera. Both are capable of recording 720p HD video footage. Initially, the HTC Flyer will be available in a Wi-Fi-only version with 16GB of storage, or a 32GB Wi-Fi + 3G version. The 16GB Wi-Fi model will set you back £479.99, while the 32GB Wi-Fi + 3G model is £599.99. In both cases, you get the pen in the box, along with a protective slipcase, a USB cable, a set of headphones and a mains power adapter. HTC Flyer review: Design and features HTC hasn't exactly left its comfort zone in the design of the Flyer. It's very close to the HTC Desire S, offering a similar design and unibody construction, but scaled up. The front is black glass, with an HTC logo at the top (if you hold it portrait) and the front-facing camera along the right-hand bezel (and so is designed to be used in landscape mainly) with touch-sensitive buttons along the bottom for Home, Menu and Back. There's also a green button that activates the pen mode. Around the edge of the glass is a lip, which curves forward at the top and bottom, making the device easier to hold in landscape mode. When you do turn the device on its side, the four buttons along the bottom also rotate, so they'll always be below the screen. Unfortunately, this means there are definite right and wrong ways to hold the Flyer, unlike the iPad. It only works in portrait with the HTC logo at the top, and in landscape with the camera at the top. It's not a huge drawback, but it's a bit of a shame. Along the right edge is a volume rocker, while the top houses the Lock key, a notification light, and the headphone jack. On the bottom is the micro-USB port. The back is mostly metal from than unibody construction. There are two gaps for the loudspeakers, and the camera lens sits in the white plastic panel at the top. To get to the SIM and microSD card slots, you need to pop this top panel off. Weighing just 420g, the Flyer feels fairly light and comfortable in the hand, but with excellent build quality. It's one of the few tablets that can really stand up to the iPad 2 when it comes to feeling like a premium product. It's thicker than the iPad 2, but the curved back means it's not all that noticeable. The 1024x600 panel is vibrant and is even fairly easy to see in sunlight (well, as much as these things can be). Videos in particular look crisp and smooth, with natural-looking colour. Of course, the really interesting thing about interacting with the display is HTC's tablet pen. The pen itself is about 115mm long and about 9mm across. It's all aluminium, save for the tip and the two buttons, which enable you to highlight and erase, respectively. The pen is quite comfortable to hold, though it's awfully easy to press one of the buttons accidentally, which can interrupt any drawing you're doing. Support for the pen is built into Sense. You can use the pen directly in certain apps, while in others tapping the pen on the screen will take a screengrab, which you can then annotate or draw on and save to the Notes app. One of the new features on offer is HTC Watch, which allows you to stream movies. Other media support comes in the form of music playback, and the Flyer is compatible with all the usual flavours including AAC, AMR, OGG, M4A, MID, MP3, WAV and WMA files, while videos are recognised in 3GP, MP4, AVI, WMV and XVID formats. As is usual with HTC devices, the five-megapixel camera comes with effects, but no scene modes. In fact, to have some fun with the front-facing camera, there's an app called Snapbooth, which allows to browse through the photo effects and watch their effect live in a manner NOT AT ALL like Apple's Photo Booth app on the iPad 2. HTC has managed to get Google on board for its implementation of Android 2.3, which means access to Google's apps, including the updated version of Google Maps and the Android Market. Unfortunately, HTC's decision not to run Android 3.0 means that the new tablet-friendly version of apps such as Gmail aren't available, and that you'll also be limited to phone apps on the Market – you won't be able to grab Google Body for instance. However, HTC has updated its own apps to work slightly better on tablets, as we'll explain in the next section. HTC Flyer review: Sense UI The world waited patiently for a tablet-optimised version of Android, and it finally got one in the form of Android 3.0, which is used on the Motorola Xoom, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V and Asus Eee Pad Transformer. However, HTC clearly didn't want to use Google's new interface, having lovingly crafted its own. HTC Sense is a permanent fixture on the company's Android phones, and its gotten a size bump to appear here. While the official version number given for the Flyer's interface is Sense 2.1 for Tablet, it bears more than a passing resemblance to Sense 3.0, which is soon to feature on the HTC Sensation. Using Sense enables the pen to have support in many basic apps, and also allows HTC to offer its own tablet-friendly versions of apps that are designed for phones normally in Android 2.3. In portrait mode, many apps look much the same as they would on phone like the HTC Desire S, but put them into landscape mode and you start to see the difference. HTC's Mail app offers you a split view, much like Android 3.0 and the iPad do. On the left is a list of your messages, while the right displays the selected email. The app is fast to respond, and emails render quickly, though there can be some occasional fitting issues. You'll notice from the screengrab that there are loads of buttons and options available here. For your inbox, you can choose to see in a conversation view, see your favourites, see unread or see attachments. On the right, you have all the options of what to do with a message. At the top, you can choose which inbox to view, as well options to search and compose a new message. All well and good, but it takes up a vast amount of screen space on a pretty small screen. It's not just the buttons, though. There's an unnecessary black bar around the edge, and even the gap between the different windows in needlessly large. Seven-inch tablets still divide opinions, with many thinking they're too small to really offer an advantage over phones. If you fill that small amount of space with unused black areas, that definitely becomes true. Friend Stream, which offers an almost identical UI, but collects together your updates from different social networks, has the same problem. A long status update from someone will take up most of the left-hand pane, when there is more space that could be used. It's a bit of an inconsistent social network client anyway. Select a Facebook status update and it'll load any comments, but choose a Twitter reply and it won't show the whole conversation. A Twitter update with a link in will load the web page underneath, but one with a hashtag won't do anything. There are official Twitter and Facebook clients on the Flyer, but they're the usual Android phone versions, so don't offer a great experience. Other changes to Sense include a new Lock screen that enables you to drag an app's icon into a circle to open that app immediately. It's nothing we haven't seen on other devices before, but is still welcome. The Home screens are now arranged in a 3D cylinder, so they rotate around as you go from one to the other. There is no practical application for this, but it looks nice. The HTC widgets have been optimised for the additional space of a tablet, though this mostly means they've just been given a little more space and controls made clearer. The Music app has had the same upgrade to twin-pane view as the other HTC apps. You can still switch to a Cover Flow-style layout that takes up the whole landscape screen if you want, but it's far easier to browse in the other mode (and the wasted space is nowhere near such an issue here). The Gallery app for viewing photos and images is another one in this template, and again it offers a good way to browse your photos and videos. Ultimately, a larger screen is always going to be an advantage for looking through lots of images. On top of the redesigned apps, there's also those optismised for the pen. Notes is a general note-taking application that ties into Evernote seamlessly. If you take a screengrab from another app with the pen, Notes is where it will save to. It's a comprehensive app, offering the ability to write by hand or type, record audio notes, import pictures manually, take new photos and add them, and tie a note to a day in the calendar. We should mention that the audio recording is totally useless if you're taking pen notes, however. All you'll hear is tapping. In the Reader ebook app, you can highlight passages of text using the pen, or make any annotation you like on the page. It's all pretty intuitive, once you get used to how the pen works, which we'll detail on the next page, along with our judgement of how well it works. So was HTC right to stick with Sense on Android 2.3 instead of using Android 3.0? Those who love Sense will probably think so, and those who like the pen will probably find it a necessary price, but for most people we reckon it's a mis-step. HTC may have optimised its apps for the tablet screen somewhat, but it hasn't done that good a job of it. This would be fine if you could replace them with other, better-optimised apps. However, being stuck on Android 2.3, all you've got are phone apps on offer from the Android Market. HTC Flyer review: Performance The part of the HTC Flyer that looks as though it could make or break it is the tablet pen. As we mentioned before, there's a small green touch-sensitive button below the screen, and tapping this with the pen brings up a small quarter-circle in the bottom-right corner. If you're in an app that doesn't natively support the pen, this will bring up options to launch the Notes app or take a screengrab. In a supported app, it gives you access to the different pen types, colours and thicknesses, with your recently used pen types appearing around the edges. It's not hugely intuitive when you first start using it, but follow the tutorial carefully and you'll get the hang of how to go back and forth between the options. Actually using the pen is impressively responsive, and we've no complaints about the accuracy of writing or drawing. The pressure sensitivity is something of a let-down, though. It basically seems to be two settings: light and hard. We couldn't really get any nuance from it, which slightly spoils the whole point of having a fancy powered accessory. The pen can be very sensitive, registering inputs from half a centimetre or so above the screen, so you'll have to get used to using it quite carefully. Beyond the pen, the HTC Flyer is an able performer, but not one that we're blown away by. That said, browsing the web is generally smooth enough. Flash video plays back without a hitch, but having Flash elements on a page does hamper the smoothness of the general browsing experience. This is true of many tablets available now, however. Navigating around is slick enough, and apps like the new 3D maps run smoothly, but it's nowhere near as fast as the dual-core iPad 2 or the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V, and often doesn't seem as fast as the LG Optimus 2X, which is also dual-core, but runs a phone version of Android, like the Flyer. Like the decision to use Android 2.3, we think use of the 1.5GHz single-core processor was a bit of a mistake. It's not slow, but it means that the Flyer can't playback 1080p or perform HDMI mirroring (it doesn't even have a video-out port), where many other tablets can. What's most confusing, though, is why HTC would use this processor when it has access to the 1.2GHz dual-core CPU going in to the HTC Sensation. It's a bizarre choice, and really seems to be holding the Flyer back from matching its rivals when it comes to media features. Battery life The other major disappointment from the Flyer is battery life. From our time with it, it looks like you'll get at least a third less battery life than the iPad 2, or about a quarter less than some of its Android 3.0 rivals. In some use cases, we'd think you'd get as little as half the life of bigger, better tablets. We wonder if the choice of the high-speed single-core processor isn't the problem here again. In any case, it's a huge black mark for the Flyer when compared to other options. Our final major gripe is the keyboard. The inclusion of arrows for navigation are actually quite welcome, but the reduction in key size is too much, as far as we're concerned. There's little space on a seven-inch screen anyway, and chipping away at the size of the keys just makes them too fiddly. You can write something of a decent length on a good 10-inch tablet's keyboard (and we do, regularly), but we've never write anything longer than a short email on the Flyer. Of course, you might be think that the pen is the key to fixing this, with some sort of handwriting recognition. But you'd be wrong, because there's isn't any. We're a little surprised to see it missing, and though we wouldn't have considered it a major oversight if the keyboard were better, the fact that it isn't means we're ruing its exclusion. HTC Flyer review: Camera and video samples Click here for full-res version HTC FLYER: Outdoors Click here for full-res version HTC FLYER: Indoors Click here for full-res version HTC FLYER: Front-facing camera HTC Flyer review: Verdict The HTC Flyer is an oddly hesitant step into the tablet world for HTC, considering its unusual stylus selling point. HTC has stuck with its normal design, and hasn't strayed far at all from the UI its been honing. The Sense UI overlay and pen are what set the Flyer apart from the competition, but it's awfully reliant on them to stand out at all, and we're not convinced it's enough. We liked: The Flyer is an undeniably well-made device, with a unibody aluminium construction that rivals the iPad 2 for build quality. The screen is also nice and vibrant, with excellent viewing angles. HTC's attempts to make tablet-friendly apps is welcome, and Sense UI is still very impressive technically, even if it isn't totally suited to the larger screen. The pen is definitely a plus overall, even if we don't think HTC has made quite enough of it with the lack of handwriting recognition. There are lots of caveats in HTC's implementation of the stylus, including its very rudimentary pressure sensitivity and the fact that only a few apps support it, but it offers something different, and does it with HTC's usual sense of polish. We disliked: Despite some impressive moments, and its unique selling point, the HTC Flyer sits at the back of the pack when it comes to being an actual tablet. The battery life is really poor compared to what else is on offer, while the 1.5GHz processor is generally fast enough, it doesn't seem as snappy as the likes of the Nvidia Tegra 2 in the Motorola Xoom or the A5 chip in the iPad 2. We've also become accustomed to 1080p video output from our tablets, and its exclusion here stands out, especially since being able to work with the pen on a larger screen would have been great. HTC Sense just isn't a tablet UI. The same goes for Android 2.3, and HTC's attempts to make it one fall short. As we said above, it's put in a good effort to make its apps work better on a larger screen, but there's a lot of wasted space. Finally, the HTC Flyer is simply too expensive. The 16GB Wi-Fi version is the same price as a 32GB Wi-Fi iPad 2. The 32GB Wi-Fi + 3G version is £20 more than its Apple equivalent. That latter of those doesn't seem so bad when you consider that the pen is included, but also remember that it's quite a bit smaller, so really comes across as a poor deal. Verdict: There are a couple of particular reasons why you might want to pick up the HTC Flyer, including the pen, but it simply isn't that good a tablet. It's missing some media features we've come to expect, it's expensive, it has relatively poor battery life and it doesn't have software suited to a tablet. If this had come late last year, we'd probably be raving about it, but things have moved on, and we have to recommend an Android 3.0 tablet or the iPad 2 over it. Related Stories Amazon to unleash family of Android devices? Nvidia CEO outlines the many reasons for low Android tablet sales

First Nokia MeeGo handset may launch as N950 next week Posted: 16 May 2011 06:04 AM PDT Nokia could be about to launch its first MeeGo handset, dubbed the Nokia N950, as soon as next week. After the handset formerly known as the Nokia N9 reminded us all that it exists by slipping through the FCC last week, it now looks as though developers will get their hands on the mysterious device very soon. Mobile blog Unwired View did some digging into the FCC filing, and discovered that Nokia requested a very short confidentiality agreement – just 45 days, as opposed to normal gagging clauses of 90 days or more. Those 45 days are up on 24 June, meaning we could see a launch towards the end of next month; or sooner, given that there's a MeeGo conference taking place in San Francisco starting next week. Developer's delight Unfortunately, it sounds as though the Nokia N950 will be a dev device, meaning that only developers will be able to get one. But Nokia does have plans to launch a MeeGo handset to the mass market at some point this year so all hope is not lost for Nokia MeeGo fans; will it be named the Nokia N950 or the Nokia N9 or something completely different? We'll just have to wait and see. Related Stories Updated: Android 2.3 release date: when will you get it? iPhone 5 UK release date: 21 November?

Comet to disappear from UK high streets? Posted: 16 May 2011 05:39 AM PDT The future of electronics retailer Comet looks uncertain, with reports that its owner Kesa is looking to sell off the brand. This comes after the company announced that it was looking a 7.7 per cent dip in like-for-like sales this year. Although Kesa hasn't officially announced its restructuring plans, its shares rose 5.3 per cent with the proposed news. If Kesa does decide to go ahead with the plan, then Comet could disappear from UK high streets altogether, with rivals Best Buy and Dixons buying up a number of Comet's stores. Bad to worse Speaking to the Guardian, analyst Nick Bubb at Arden, said: "Clearly Comet is going from bad to worse at present and it is dragging back the performance of the whole group." While analyst Andrew Wade, associate director of Equity Research Retail, said that if Comet does go the way of Woolworths, then the move would be a "significant positive" for both Kesa and its main rival Dixons Retail. Related Stories Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar

Nvidia CEO outlines the many reasons for low Android tablet sales Posted: 16 May 2011 05:35 AM PDT Nvidia's CEO Jen Hsun-Huang has outlined why he thinks Android Honeycomb tablets are suffering less-than-spectacular sales. The Nvidia Tegra 2 chip lives inside most Honeycomb tablets and Hsun-Huang is not exactly impressed with how well the slates, like Motorola Xoom, are doing compared to Apple's monstrous iPad sales. The reasons for the uninspiring Android tablet sales are manifold, he says. "It's a point of sales problem. It's an expertise at retail problem. It's a marketing problem to consumers. It is a price point problem," he told cnet. But that's not all "The baseline configuration included 3G when it shouldn't have. Tablets should have a Wi-Fi configuration and be more affordable. And those are the ones that were selling more rapidly than the 3G and fully configured ones. "And it's a software richness of content problem," he continued, aluding to the fact that Android carries fewer apps than its fruity rival OS. It wasn't all doom and gloom from the Nvidia camp, however, with Hsun-Huang quickly adding, "But those problems are all getting solved. The rate at which these Honeycomb Tegra 2 tablets are being improved is really stunning. I think all of the manufacturers have now recognised that and readjusted their plans." No doubt the great Android tablet scramble at the beginning of the year did no one any favours, with every manufacturer and its dog rushing to get an Android tablet out the door in the midst of the Honeycomb hype. But the benefit of hindsight and a bit more retail savvy might be all that Honeycomb tablets need to take off. Related Stories Amazon to unleash family of Android devices?

Nvidia CEO outlines the many reasons for low Android tablet sales Posted: 16 May 2011 05:35 AM PDT Nvidia's CEO Jen Hsun-Huang has outlined why he thinks Android Honeycomb tablets are suffering less-than-spectacular sales. The Nvidia Tegra 2 chip lives inside most Honeycomb tablets and Hsun-Huang is not exactly impressed with how well the slates, like Motorola Xoom, are doing compared to Apple's monstrous iPad sales. The reasons for the uninspiring Android tablet sales are manifold, he says. "It's a point of sales problem. It's an expertise at retail problem. It's a marketing problem to consumers. It is a price point problem," he told cnet. But that's not all "The baseline configuration included 3G when it shouldn't have. Tablets should have a Wi-Fi configuration and be more affordable. And those are the ones that were selling more rapidly than the 3G and fully configured ones. "And it's a software richness of content problem," he continued, aluding to the fact that Android carries fewer apps than its fruity rival OS. It wasn't all doom and gloom from the Nvidia camp, however, with Hsun-Huang quickly adding, "But those problems are all getting solved. The rate at which these Honeycomb Tegra 2 tablets are being improved is really stunning. I think all of the manufacturers have now recognised that and readjusted their plans." No doubt the great Android tablet scramble at the beginning of the year did no one any favours, with every manufacturer and its dog rushing to get an Android tablet out the door in the midst of the Honeycomb hype. But the benefit of hindsight and a bit more retail savvy might be all that Honeycomb tablets need to take off. Related Stories Amazon to unleash family of Android devices? Review: HTC Flyer

Samsung solves Galaxy S2 auto-brightness issue Posted: 16 May 2011 05:21 AM PDT The Samsung Galaxy S2 has already received two software updates since its launch, fixing one of the main problems with the device. Samsung has rolled out the updates to the device, despite it not being available internationally yet, in order to sort out the auto-brightness issue that caused the Super AMOLED Plus screen to get darker and brighter too rapidly. Other little bugs ironed out include 'connectivity issues' and the update has also improved the accuracy of Swype... so new users should find a sparklingly clean device that garnered a five star rating in our awards. However, despite the presence of an over the air update mechanism, you'll still need to connect your Galaxy S2 to a computer via Kies to get the new software. On The Go coming In other Galaxy S2 news, the USB On The Go connectivity issue that meant users couldn't connect USB drives up to the phone (as Samsung didn't supply a cable in the box) has been solved... with a standard USB OTG cable. A user over on the XDA Developers Forum found that simple off the shelf versions, which cost as little as £3, will work fine, meaning you won't need to get a Samsung-branded offering to gain the functionality. Related Stories Kodak wins lawsuit against Apple over camera tech Apple to release iPhone 4S - with 'minor updates'? Vodafone Smart announced - PAYG Android bounces back Updated: Samsung finally rolling out UK Galaxy S Android 2.3 update Nokia denies Microsoft buyout rumours

Updated: Android 2.3 release date: when will you get it? Posted: 16 May 2011 04:55 AM PDT Android 2.3 has been announced by Google, and now owners of smartphones such as the Nexus One and the HTC Desire are eagerly awaiting the update. Tthe first phone to go on sale with Android 2.3 is the successor to the Nexus One, the Google Nexus S. Google Nexus One Android 2.3 update The Nexus One has already been confirmed as getting the Android 2.3 update in early Q1 2011. The following announcement over on the official Google Nexus Twitter page confirmed the upgrade: "The Gingerbread OTA for Nexus One will happen in the coming weeks. Just hang tight!" UPDATE: As of 23 February 2011, the Google Nexus One Android 2.3.3 update is rolling out. Google Nexus S Android 2.3.3 update UPDATE: The Nexus S is also getting its update to Android 2.3.3 as of 23 February 2011. HTC Desire Android 2.3 update We've contacted HTC to ask about an HTC Desire update to Android 2.3 (and one for the HTC Desire HD and the HTC Desire Z). HTC responded on 7 December to confirm that a number of its phones will be receiving Android 2.3. "We are excited about the OS update coming for Android, and while HTC will definitely have some phones running this OS, we do not have a specific timeframe for new phones or updates at this time. Please stay tuned for more details," said an HTC spokesperson. Still no official word on the Desire, but we have to wonder whether the smartphone star is included in "some phones". UPDATE: As we reported on 23 February, the HTC Desire Android 2.3 update is on its way to Three customers. UPDATE: On 28 February 2011 T-Mobile also confirmed to TechRadar that it is working on bringing the Android update to its customers but, like Three, cannot give a timeframe for the update to deploy: "HTC have confirmed that all handsets in the Desire range will be updated this year but no dates as yet for the branded release." UPDATE: The HTC Desire HD Android 2.3 update is now being rolled out by Vodafone. Samsung Galaxy S Android 2.3 update We also contacted Samsung to ask about the Samsung Galaxy S Android 2.3 update. Samsung replied with the following statement: "In case a new version of Android operating system is publicly announced and released, Samsung will review the possibility of implementation of such new version to the existing Samsung products with Android operating system ("Update"). "Such a review will be based on various factors including, without limitation, the overall effect of such Update to Samsung products, the system requirements, the structural limitations, and the level of cooperation from the component suppliers and the software licensors. "If Samsung decides to make the Update available to the users after such consideration, Samsung will use its efforts to develop such Update, which may be released to the users upon successful completion of such development." In other words: we'll check it out and make a decision then. UPDATE: As of 16 May 2011, the Samsung Galaxy S Android 2.3 update is being rolled out. LG Optimus One and Optimus Chic Android 2.3 update At first it looked like this one wasn't going to happen. In a post on Facebook, LG said: "The Optimus line won't be getting the Gingerbread update because they have a 600MHz processor, and the minimum requirements for Gingerbread require 1 GHz processor. In other words: it's not possible to update the processor, unfortunately." However, on 10 December, LG changed its mind, saying: "LG will upgrade all Optimus One smartphones currently using the Froyo OS to the next version of the Android OS, Gingerbread. Details of the upgrade schedule will be announced locally in due course." LG Optimus 2X Android 2.3 release date The 2X has been officially announced as a UK release, and while it will ship with Android 2.2, the Android 2.3 update will be winging its way to the handset soon. Stay tuned. We'll bring you more release dates as we get them. Related Stories First Nokia MeeGo handset may launch as N950 next week iPhone 5 UK release date: 21 November?

Seagate GoFlex Satellite wirelessly boosts iPad storage Posted: 16 May 2011 04:14 AM PDT Seagate has added a few new goodies to its GoFlex range of external hard drives in the shape of the GoFlex Satellite, the first battery-powered hard drive to wirelessly connect to any Wi-Fi-toting device. That means you can enjoy an extra 500GB of storage for your iOS, Android or any device that has Wi-Fi capabilities, completely sans wires. What's handy, says Seagate, is that the dinky drive allows you to opt for a cheaper low-memoried tablet or phone safe in the knowledge that you can easily store videos, photos and music externally yet portably. Although we do feel honour-bound to point out that if you're willing to drop $200 (£123) on the GoFlex Satellite and its external storage, you might be better off starting out with the 64GB version of the tablet and seeing how you get on. Applitude Seagate has also brought out the GoFlex Media app to wirelessly transfer your video, music, pictures and documents to and from the hard drive, although this is only available for iOS devices at present, with the Android app coming this summer. In the meantime, Android users can access stuff stored on the device through their tablet or smartphone's browser. The GoFlex Satellite has a standby battery life of up to 25 hours, or 4 hours of continuously streaming video. Patrick Connolly, vice president and general manager of Seagate's retail group, feels quite passionately about the additional storage the company can offer to iPad users: "With the GoFlex Satellite mobile wireless storage, we wished to create an elegant solution that provides real value to the multitude of iPad users out there by delivering a seamless connection to local storage. "No longer will a consumer feel as though it is a compromise to purchase a lower capacity tablet or iPad. With GoFlex Satellite, people will be able to carry their entire media library with them without the need for wires or the web at a fraction of the cost of adding 3G or purchasing or a higher capacity tablet."

Seagate GoFlex Satellite wirelessly boosts iPad storage Posted: 16 May 2011 04:14 AM PDT Seagate has added a few new goodies to its GoFlex range of external hard drives in the shape of the GoFlex Satellite, the first battery-powered hard drive to wirelessly connect to any Wi-Fi-toting device. That means you can enjoy an extra 500GB of storage for your iOS, Android or any device that has Wi-Fi capabilities, completely sans wires. What's handy, says Seagate, is that the dinky drive allows you to opt for a cheaper low-memoried tablet or phone safe in the knowledge that you can easily store videos, photos and music externally yet portably. Although we do feel honour-bound to point out that if you're willing to drop $200 (£123) on the GoFlex Satellite and its external storage, you might be better off starting out with the 64GB version of the tablet and seeing how you get on. Applitude Seagate has also brought out the GoFlex Media app to wirelessly transfer your video, music, pictures and documents to and from the hard drive, although this is only available for iOS devices at present, with the Android app coming this summer. In the meantime, Android users can access stuff stored on the device through their tablet or smartphone's browser. The GoFlex Satellite has a standby battery life of up to 25 hours, or 4 hours of continuously streaming video. Patrick Connolly, vice president and general manager of Seagate's retail group, feels quite passionately about the additional storage the company can offer to iPad users: "With the GoFlex Satellite mobile wireless storage, we wished to create an elegant solution that provides real value to the multitude of iPad users out there by delivering a seamless connection to local storage. "No longer will a consumer feel as though it is a compromise to purchase a lower capacity tablet or iPad. With GoFlex Satellite, people will be able to carry their entire media library with them without the need for wires or the web at a fraction of the cost of adding 3G or purchasing or a higher capacity tablet."

Review: Pro-Ject Essential Posted: 16 May 2011 04:00 AM PDT First there was the Debut, then came the Genie, then inflation kicked in and the decks hit or even broke the £200 barrier. So Pro-Ject built a new entry-level turntable called Essential for those who want to find out what the vinyl thing is all about. Pro-Ject has managed to make the Essential affordable by using more cost-effective materials for major parts like the plinth and platter and using a Unipivot version of its 8.6 tonearm. You can also choose from three colour options including black (£155) or red or white (both £170 each), so on paper at least it looks like great value. The essentials The Essential is naturally not an elaborate turntable, but it's European-built, fully set up and is virtually plug and play; all you need is a phono stage. The plinth is a slab of particle board (supported on three compliant feet) and this houses the three key elements of a record player. The motor is a synchronous type with two pulleys for 33.3 and 45rpm, while the main bearing, on which the platter spins, is chromed-steel with a ball-bearing thrust pad and sintered bronze housing. The unipivot arm is an unusual choice at this price point. Most cost several times the price of this package, but they are intrinsically simple devices and presumably inexpensive to build in bulk. It has a one-piece headshell and armtube, and an eccentrically mounted counterweight, which eases the cartridge's job with warped records. The cartridge fitted is Ortofon's entry-level OM3E moving magnet. Can it be done? While you'd be hard pressed to find a sintered bronze bearing on other turntables in this price bracket, it is the smallest example of the type we've seen, but size isn't everything. The platter is, by necessity, vinyl wrapped, which leaves a joint in its periphery, but this is an aesthetic, not practical issue. The tonearm is not a true unipivot: it only pivots in two planes, but it's neatly put together and has a captive signal lead unlike most Pro-Jects. On/off switching is on the side, next to the motor and dust is kept at bay with the supplied lid. We also like the simple, but effective downforce gauge supplied in the box. The only competition at this price comes from plastic turntables with extremely flimsy-looking arms, so one has to wonder if even Pro-Ject can build a useful player at this price. Bass control The Essential delivers a reasonably coherent and, with simpler records, surprisingly robust rendition of the signal embedded in the groove. All the fundamentals are in place and while transparency isn't impressive, channel separation is on par for the money. Compression levels are a little high, however, and image scale (as well as high-frequency extension) is rather obviously curtailed. On the plus side, image width is quite acceptable and the bass, while not exactly weighty, is not without its appeal. It manages to control the bass as well, even when placed on a standard equipment rack where speaker feedback will be getting through to it to some extent. Female voice seems to work well too, better than some male ones for no obvious reason, the latter often lacking a degree of clarity and precision. The limits It would seem that there is a limit even to what Pro-Ject can achieve when costs are cut to the bone, we wondered whether the cartridge is a limiting factor, but trying it on another turntable revealed that (while its treble is restricted) it's more than adequate. We suggest you buy a Genie Mk 3, it looks better and delivers the sort of sound that will embarrass many digital sources. The Essential is a very affordable way to get into vinyl, but there are better alternatives from the Czech expert. Related Stories Review: Well Tempered Simplex turntable Review: Epos Epic 5 Review: Rotel RDG-1520 Review: Lehmann Black Cube Linear USB Review: NAD Viso Three

Vodafone Smart announced - PAYG Android bounces back Posted: 16 May 2011 03:30 AM PDT Vodafone has announced the launch of its new PAYG Android handset - the Vodafone Smart. The new Android 2.2 handset, set to arrive on PAYG tariffs, will come with a 2.8-inch capacitive screen and 2MP camera, replacing the older Vodafone 845. The location of the camera could be fun for some people, with it being moved to the centre of the phone's back panel. The front looks a bit bulbous too, with a massive 'chin' aping the budget design of the LG Optimus One. HOW much did you pay? The Vodafone Smart is set to launch for €90 (£80) in certain European territories, including the UK. It comes with a range of covers (including a spring/summer and an autumn/winter collection for the fashionista who likes curious phones on a budget) as well as the option to design your own casing. It will be interesting to see how this stacks up against the Orange San Francisco, which has already been in the market for months and comes at a cheaper price point and with a better camera - budget battle royale, here we come. Want to see a red-head chatting about the phone? You do? Excellent. We've got just the video for you. Related Stories Kodak wins lawsuit against Apple over camera tech Apple to release iPhone 4S - with 'minor updates'? Updated: Samsung finally rolling out UK Galaxy S Android 2.3 update Samsung solves Galaxy S2 auto-brightness issue Nokia denies Microsoft buyout rumours

Review: NAD Viso Three Posted: 16 May 2011 03:30 AM PDT NAD has been at the forefront of entry-level hi-fi components for decades and still produces its famous battleship grey components at a variety of price points to suit most pockets. More recently, we have seen a move towards more – dare we say it – stylish components with the Masters series at higher price points and an entry into more lifestyle components with the VISO series. Following on from the DVD-based VISO Two and Five systems, the new £750 VISO Three is the first two-channel audio member of the family. It's a stereo receiver, comprising an internal CD mechanism able to play the usual span of CD-based formats plus an FM/AM internal tuner. Additionally, a front-mounted USB socket will replay audio from correctly formatted USB sticks Supplied with the system, but separate to the casework, is an iPod dock that can be controlled from the remote (as well as curiously being supplied with a small one of its own). In markets with digital radio, the unit is available with the DB-2 DAB/DAB+ for an additional charge of £100. Backed up by a 50-watt internal amplifier it's certainly up to the task of powering the majority of speakers that the VISO Three is likely to encounter. NAD has put some thought into the types of speaker systems likely to be used with the receiver and has fitted a subwoofer output to make connecting a sub, or satellite speaker systems relatively straightforward. House style Aesthetically, the VISO Three follows the house style of the other VISO components and this is no bad thing in our view. It's a handsome-looking piece of kit and manages to look more expensive than it actually is. The gridiron metal top-plate that curves over to form part of the front panel is a distinctive and handsome feature and helps the NAD to look smaller than it is, which is a useful attribute. The fit and finish is generally good. We like the clear and easy-to-read display and the standard of the paintwork and panel gaps is extremely high, as well. We are less sold on the volume control, which is a rotary encoder-type with no start and stop point. This is useful with very powerful pieces of equipment, but with the VISO Three, it means that it has to be rotated a fair distance to give an appreciable increase in volume. The remote handset is also somewhat fussy. We appreciate that the given the amount of functions that the unit has, the remote will be relatively complex but it is still far from intuitive, more of which later. Minor gripes aside, the VISO Three has to be considered good value for money. This is a well-specified device and being able to add DAB functionality – rather than paying for it outright – is a useful feature. The feature set, coupled with the useful power output, makes the system a strong contender in the sub-£1,000 all-in-one category. An Ethernet-enabled version would be the icing on the cake – the big display makes browsing off USB simple enough for us to believe that browsing a network would be easy to do as well. Balanced sound We tested the VISO Three with Mordaunt Short Mezzo 1 and Audio Note AN-K loudspeakers. Listening to CD first of all reveals many likeable traits. The overall impression is one of the classic NAD balanced sound – no one part of the frequency spectrum is accentuated or pushed forward to the detriment of other parts and it's easy to listen to for prolonged periods. This can initially lead you to feel that the NAD is a little lacking in excitement, but more accurately the unit will not inject excitement into recordings where it is not present, although choosing more upfront speakers can change this. We're particularly impressed with the soundstage the VISO Three presents; a believable three-dimensional space containing vocalists and instruments, whether that space be a tiny recording studio or open-air venue. The internal tuner and external DAB module are both straightforward enough to tune to the stations we knew to be available in the area and the same neutral, but involving sound is present and the DAB section does a fine job of keeping more compressed stations listenable. There was no DAB+ material to try the DAB module with, but the degree of future-proofing it offers is appreciated. The DAB module itself is not the smallest going, but seemed unaffected by being hidden at the back of a rack out of sight. A fine line Reading tracks over USB is simple enough and the NAD is a flattering source for compressed material. Our test range of MP3s (that vary from 320kbps/bit affairs to samples that would embarrass a ringtone) were largely left listenable by the VISO Three and it treads a fine line between revealing the detail in better recordings without mercilessly destroying poorer ones. The iPod dock is less successful, however. Sonically, the dock is similar to most other analogue output-style docks we have seen, but it is hindered by fussy connections and a truly frustrating control interface. The dock needs power and a separate data connection to function and while all the cabling is supplied, the result is far from elegant. The menu interface and options for controlling the iPod seem almost wilfully counter-intuitive and we were particularly unimpressed with the fact that iPhone and iPod Touch models are only able to output audio via their iPod functions rather than by third-party services, such as Spotify or last.fm – both of which would give the NAD an element of 'streaming on the cheap.' Unflappable sound The VISO Three impressed us generally, however, with an involving and detailed sound that is likeable and easy to listen to for long periods without ever becoming fatiguing or dull. The qualities of an engaging and unflappable sound are present and correct, and the fresh styling is a welcome departure from convention. Where we are less convinced that the system is an unqualified success, is in the control and user interface. There are enough quirks, from the insensitive volume control to the truly clunky iPod interface for the NAD to never feel as integrated as the name might suggest. Certainly, with the multiple connections for the iPod dock in place and the DAB module attached, the unit feels rather less like a cohesive all-in-one system and slightly more like an affiliation of the NAD parts bin in one (ish) box. How much this will matter to you will largely come down to whether you intend to use the CD drive for the bulk of your listening or whether the iPod dock is going to be your primary source. If it is the former, the VISO Three is too strong a sonic performer to ignore. Related Stories Review: Well Tempered Simplex turntable Review: Epos Epic 5 Review: Rotel RDG-1520 Review: Lehmann Black Cube Linear USB Review: Pro-Ject Essential

Updated: iPhone 5 rumours: what you need to know Posted: 16 May 2011 03:29 AM PDT iPhone 5 (or the iPhone 5G, as some are calling it) rumours are flying thick and fast already. Will the 5th generation iPhone deliver ultra-fast mobile internet? What other specs will it feature? Let's raid the iPhone 5 rumour fridge to find the tomatoes of truth amid the stinky stilton of baseless speculation. But first, our colleagues on T3.com have rounded up the latest rumours in the iPhone 5 video below. iPhone 5 release date The Apple Worldwide Developers' Conference 2011 date has been announced as 6 June 2011, so it's possible we'll see the iPhone 5 break cover there. However, Jim Dalrymple at The Loop says that this year's WWDC will be about software, not hardware, with Apple focussing on iOS and Mac OS. This fits with Apple's established rhythm of iPhone releases, with new models appearing in late June or early July each year. So it's a safe bet that the iPhone 5 release date (UK and US) will also be late June or early July. The usual July release date was mentioned by Engadget's source too in January 2011 - meaning the standard release cycle looks set to continue. A new report from China later stated that Q3 (which still includes July) is now the earliest we will see the iPhone 5, after the disaster in Japan pushed back supply of key components. On 20 April 2011, it emerged that the iPhone 5 release date may now be September 2011 rather than June/July. This date was cited by three sources who spoke to Reuters. iPhone 5 form factor The Wall Street Journal reported that: "Apple is also developing a new iPhone model, said people briefed on the phone. One person familiar said the fifth-generation iPhone would be a different form factor than those that are currently available… it was unclear how soon that version would be available to Verizon or other carriers." This has since been backed up by reports from Engadget we reported on 17 January 2011, which state the design will be a 'total rethink'. Of course, since the iPhone 3G was followed by the 3GS it's possible the new iPhone won't be a total refresh and we'll see an iPhone 4S (or iPhone 4GS) before an iPhone 5. An iPhone 4S looked more likely on 16 May 2011 after analyst Peter Misek wrote: "According to our industry checks, the device should be called iPhone 4S and include minor cosmetic changes, better cameras, A5 dual-core processor, and HSPA+ support." However, earlier reports from China backed up the larger-screened, metal chassis-sporting iPhone 5 rumours, so the redesign still seems firmly on the cards. On 22 March 2011, China Times also reported that the iPhone 5 will feature a 4-inch display. A rumour we covered on 7 March 2011 suggests that the new iPhone will do away with the glass back and opt instead for a metal back which will act as a new iPhone antenna. And an Apple patent that we reported on on 7 April 2011 suggests that we could see the bezel put to good use on the new iPhone. The patent describes how visual indicators and touch-sensitive buttons could be incorporated to the space around the iPhone screen. Rumours that we covered on 3 May 2011, suggest that there may even be two versions of the new iPhone: a 'standard' iPhone 5 and an iPhone 5 'pro'. Apparently, Apple is buying in components of differing quality, and those parts wouldn't be required for a single phone. A cheaper, smaller iPhone 5 - an iPhone nano A prototype version of a smaller iPhone is said to exist, built to ward off competition from cheap Android handsets. Rumours around an iPhone nano picked up again on 13 February when the Wall Street Journal claimed that the so-called 'iPhone nano' exists and may even be on sale later this year. Those iPhone nano rumours may hold little truth, though. As we reported on 18 February, the New York Times cites an anonymous source who says there will be no smaller iPhone from Apple. "The size of the device would not vary," says the source. A white iPhone 5 The Economic Daily News is reporting that white iPhone 5 glass is being shipped, with a supplier called Wintek being the sole touch panel vendor for the white iPhone. iPhone 5 specs According to the Chinese Economic Daily News (via AppleInsider), with the exception of Qualcomm chipsets - which would replace the current Infineon chipsets in the iPhone 4 - Apple's sticking with the same suppliers for the 2011 iPhone 5G components. We'd expect the basics of the iPhone 5 specs to get a bump - more memory, faster processor, and more storage. The specs? A new antenna, 1.2GHz processor (possibly dual-core) and a larger screen: 3.7" instead of 3.5". The iPhone 5 may also be made from a new kind of alloy, or maybe meat. In other rumours which surfaced on 15 February 2011, Digitimes is reporting on information supposedly leaked from component suppliers that claim the iPhone 5 will feature a larger, 4-inch screen. Digitimes quotes the source as saying that Apple is expanding the screen size "to support the tablet PC market as the vendor only has a 9.7-inch iPad in the market." We're also hearing word of a multi-core design, in keeping with the rest of the mobile world, as Apple looks to improve both battery life and performance. The iPhone 5 will also get a massive graphical boost as it moves to a dual-core GPU - this could herald true 1080p output from the new device, according to our news story on 18 January. UPDATE: On 10 March 2011 it emerged that the A5 chip, found in the new iPad 2, looks to be headed to the iPhone 5, bringing enhanced functionality and dual-core power. iPhone 5 digital wallet There's been some speculation that Apple might include Near Field Communication (NFC) technology in the iPhone 5G, turning it into a kind of credit/debit card. However, as Techeye.net notes, "Apple has looked into NFC before" so this might not be imminent. However, with the tech being inside the Google Nexus S, the time for NFC may finally be here. UPDATE: On 24 February 2011, we reported that an Apple patent has revealed an e-wallet icon on the iPhone homescreen. This adds credence to the rumour that iPhone 5 will feature NFC. However, on 14 March 2011, reports in The Independent cited sources from 'several of the largest mobile operators in the UK', who said that Apple told them not to expect NFC in the iPhone 5. So perhaps we'll have to wait for iPhone 6 for that. But who to believe? On 22 March 2011 China Times reported that the new iPhone will include an NFC chip. LTE support At least one analyst thinks the iPhone 5 will support LTE, super-fast mobile broadband, in the US. That would make the iPhone 5G a 4G phone, which won't be confusing at all. LTE is certainly coming - AT&T plans to roll out its LTE service in 2011 - but an LTE iPhone has been rumoured for a while. USA Today floated the idea of an LTE iPhone on Verizon last year. iPhone 5 camera Speaking at a live Wall Street Journal event, Sony's Sir Howard Stringer was talking about the company's camera image sensor facility in Sendai, a town that was recently ravaged by the recent Japanese earthquake and tsunami. According to 9to5Mac, he said something along the lines of, "Our best sensor technology is built in one of the [tsunami] affected factories. Those go to Apple for their iPhones… or iPads. Isn't that something? They buy our best sensors from us." iPhone 5 price If the iPhone 5 is an evolutionary step like the move from the iPhone 3G to the iPhone 3GS then we'd expect the price to stay more or less the same, although in the UK higher VAT rates may well mean a higher price tag. iPhone 5 pictures A spurious photo of an iPhone 5 front case has been unearthed by a Chinese reseller, suggesting that the next Apple handset will feature an edge-to-edge display. We're not convinced it's a genuine Apple part, though. On 17 March 2011, we reported on another supposed set of leaked iPhone 5 cases, this time looking remarkably similarly to iPhone 4 cases. What do you want to see in the next iPhone? Hit the comments and share your thoughts.

Virgin Media to screen French Open live in 3D Posted: 16 May 2011 03:25 AM PDT Virgin Media has announced that it will be screening the French Open tennis in 3D, with the Eurosport coverage to be screened live on channel 523. Although Virgin Media does have 3D content, until now it has been part of the on-demand service rather than on a live channel. However, the cable giant is now bringing a key sporting event to its customers in 3D, as it looks to compete with Sky 3D – which uses Sky's own 3D sports coverage as a keystone of its content. Delighted Cindy Rose, executive director of digital entertainment at Virgin Media, said: "We're delighted to be adding one of the year's most prestigious sporting events to our calendar and giving our customers more of those 'wow' moments in breath-taking 3D. "With Sky Sports, Eurosport and ESPN all available in HD and SD and a great choice of sport on demand, Virgin Media is the perfect choice for sports fans everywhere." Channel 523 is currently an unused channel on the EPG, and presumably has been chosen as it sits next to Eurosport HD on 522. SKY: filming Master Tennis in 3D at the O2 Arena Jean Thierry Augustin, Eurosport's Managing Director, Distribution, Rights Acquisition and Development said: "This agreement with Virgin Media will enable UK sports fans to experience Grand Slam tennis as never before. "The iconic clay courts of Roland Garros are the perfect stage to demonstrate the progress being made in 3D sports broadcasting. "It will be the first time an entire Grand Slam event has been accessible in 3D to viewers at home from the opening day to the final and it reinforces Eurosport's commitment to innovation and new technology." Related Stories Samsung launches free 3D on demand service

Amazon to unleash family of Android devices? Posted: 16 May 2011 03:12 AM PDT Rather than just an Android tablet, online megastore Amazon may have a family of Android devices up its sleeve. With the Kindle e-reader having proven a huge success for the company – it was its top selling product of the last quarter – it came as no surprise to anyone when fairly solid rumours of an Amazon tablet began to swirl. But now it seems that Amazon is preparing a whole host of Android devices for launch later this year, according to an insider speaking to Android And Me. Kindledroid Adding credence to the rumours is the fact that Amazon recently launched a dedicated Android app store, which as a stand-alone launch seems a little bit haphazard of the company. The anonymous sources also said that Amazon will use a Pixel Qi display for low-power consumption. It's not clear whether Amazon is working on just tablets or some smartphones too – nor do we have any clues on what version of Android we're looking at; but we'd expect a level of customisation a la HTC Sense rather than raw Android. But one thing's for sure: we won't be surprised to see at least one Amazon Android tablet hit the virtual shelves in time for Christmas. Related Stories Nvidia CEO outlines the many reasons for low Android tablet sales

Amazon to unleash family of Android devices? Posted: 16 May 2011 03:12 AM PDT Rather than just an Android tablet, online megastore Amazon may have a family of Android devices up its sleeve. With the Kindle e-reader having proven a huge success for the company – it was its top selling product of the last quarter – it came as no surprise to anyone when fairly solid rumours of an Amazon tablet began to swirl. But now it seems that Amazon is preparing a whole host of Android devices for launch later this year, according to an insider speaking to Android And Me. Kindledroid Adding credence to the rumours is the fact that Amazon recently launched a dedicated Android app store, which as a stand-alone launch seems a little bit haphazard of the company. The anonymous sources also said that Amazon will use a Pixel Qi display for low-power consumption. It's not clear whether Amazon is working on just tablets or some smartphones too – nor do we have any clues on what version of Android we're looking at; but we'd expect a level of customisation a la HTC Sense rather than raw Android. But one thing's for sure: we won't be surprised to see at least one Amazon Android tablet hit the virtual shelves in time for Christmas. Related Stories Nvidia CEO outlines the many reasons for low Android tablet sales Review: HTC Flyer

Review: Lehmann Black Cube Linear USB Posted: 16 May 2011 03:00 AM PDT Lehmann is a company that specialises in phono and headphone amplifiers. The Lehmann Audio Black Cube Linear USB is an unusual proposition in that it manages to be a headphone amplifier, a preamplifier and a DAC all at once. Admittedly, viewed as a preamp, it's a bit basic, because it features only one analogue input, and the DAC has only one input which is USB (when this is active, that is when it detects it is connected to a valid source, the analogue input is bypassed). So really this is an analogue/digital input headphone amp with a volume controlled line output! Heady power Lehmann's idea of what constitutes a headphone amp is generous, with a full push-pull power amplifier output configuration. Of course, the power levels are lower than for an amp intended to drive speakers, but there are nevertheless four power transistors on heatsinks waiting to drive the load. And their ability to do that is impressive. We obtained output powers of up to one-watt into low impedances and any kind of headphone, from 15ohms to 600ohms (which is pretty much the full range for dynamics), stand to receive at least 100mW. We have to say that actually listening to any headphone when driven that hard is really not a good idea, but it's nice to know that at any sane level there's plenty of headroom. Blue velvet You may already have noticed from the photograph that there are two headphone sockets on the front of the unit, of which one disconnects the line output and the other doesn't. Next to them is the volume control, a traditional mechanical type from the Alps 'Blue Velvet' range. It's typical of the whole unit in being a high-quality component and the unit is powered from a generous internal toroidal mains transformer. The phono sockets and USB input are a bit jammed-up at the rear and only labelled underneath the unit, but it's all easy enough to deal with. Flexibility is enhanced by a couple of little slide switches underneath the unit, which give gain adjustment in 10dB steps. Pure and simple Restricting ourselves to sensible listening levels, we tried this amp with various headphones from Grado, Shure and Beyerdynamic, and found it an excellent and fearless performer. It's slightly less at home with the lowest impedances (as typified by in-ear phones), with which it can develop a trace of tonal coloration, but across the range it is quite beautifully detailed and unconstricted. It also does some very impressive things with bass; keeping it strong and precise but never accentuating it. Indeed, it's almost the perfect example of an iron fist in a velvet glove. Treble is no less competent: sweet and open with minimal sibilance, though over-bright recordings are still going to sound that way, one of the undeniable drawbacks of headphones (plenty of recordings are just about acceptable on speakers, but simply sizzling on cans). DAC to the test All the above refers to the analogue input. We've mixed feelings about the digital input, though. It's good and indeed of its kind (using as it does a single, familiar, chip to receive and convert the digits) it's very good, but it's still not the equal of some of the very fine DACs that are around for £200-£300: we're thinking, of course, principally of the Cambridge DacMagic and the Arcam rDac. Either of those could be had for about the price difference between the basic Black Cube Linear and the USB version and bothoffer higher quality and more fl exibility. In fact, either of those two could add a little resolution to this DAC and generally remove a veil or two between you and the music. Of course, if simplicity is something you strive for and one USB input is all you need, it's much less of an issue and we can't deny that this is enjoyable via USB. Via line in, though, there's no question: it's a very fine headphone amp indeed. Related Stories Review: Well Tempered Simplex turntable Review: Epos Epic 5 Review: Rotel RDG-1520 Review: NAD Viso Three Review: Pro-Ject Essential

Apple to release iPhone 4S - with 'minor updates'? Posted: 16 May 2011 02:56 AM PDT The new iPhone from Apple looks set to only be an incremental upgrade after an analyst noted the new model will likely be called the iPhone 4S. In a similar move from the iPhone 3G to the 3GS (which saw only a slight processor improvement, video camera and compass added) the iPhone 4S will only feature slight spec upgrades, according to Jefferies and Co. analyst Peter Misek: "According to our industry checks, the device should be called iPhone 4S and include minor cosmetic changes, better cameras, A5 dual-core processor, and HSPA+ support," he wrote. This is the tale of a new iPhone These claims of 'better cameras' have been corroborated by leaked images of the new cameras from Apple.pro to be used in the next version of the phone - the iPhone 4S will reportedly have a separate flash from the main sensor. The iPhone 4 has the flash built directly into the camera unit, so the new design could herald an even thinner iPhone 4S with that larger screen so many have been harping on about for months. The relocation of the flash makes sense given the leaked images of a possible iPhone 4S case... but we've been down this rumour route so many times we've got loyalty cards for service stations on the Apple Highway. Related Stories Kodak wins lawsuit against Apple over camera tech Vodafone Smart announced - PAYG Android bounces back Updated: Samsung finally rolling out UK Galaxy S Android 2.3 update Samsung solves Galaxy S2 auto-brightness issue Nokia denies Microsoft buyout rumours

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