Chris is an experienced Digital Marketer and Growth Hacker with work experience in Mckinsey Germany and Rocket Internet Asia. He is the CEO of Oizoioi Malaysia and actively engaged in the Startup Scene in South East Asia.
BM Simon (with the code name Angler), initially introduced in 1993 at COMDEX fair in Las Vegas (USA), is considered the first smartphone ever in the world.
In 2007, when Apple launched the very first iPhone to the market, people became crazily in love with it. Everyone was talking about and using iPhone. The smartphone battle only officially started then, which is only 8 years from now. It would be a nice experience if you look back on the evolution of smartphones to see how the smartphone industry has changed from then on. Today, in the middle of 2015, we have hundreds of thousands of smartphone choices from many popular and young producers. People can easily choose a smartphone with the specs and design of their tastes from Apple, Samsung, HTC, Nokia, Sony, Lenovo, ASUS … to Xiaomi, Cherry Mobile, Elephone, Meizu, Wiko and many many more to name.
More than 20 years have gone by ever since the first smartphone came to our life, and we have witnessed a complete improvement in both specs and designs. In terms of design, from the earlier heavily huge “bricks”, we now have available on shelves super slim and light devices which look premium on your hands.
Talking about specs, never could we imagine we can now have a computer, a professional camera, a game console and many things in one portable device. Smartphones are now shipped with 4GB RAM,4,000 mAH and camera resolutions with 20MP or even more.
Let’s watch this interesting 2 minute video about the evolution of smartphones to see how smartphones evolved and developed through the past 22 years.
LG Bello 2 – the successor of LG Bello – has just been launched not long ago by LG. The Korean manufacturer is targeting customers with this budget smartphone. Even though other flagship devices will certainly overpower LG Bello 2, this phone will still gain LG the amount of customers at the low end and mid end part of the market. Moreover, LG Bello 2 still has many features that are included on other higher end smart phones.
The new product in the L series – the affordable range of LG smart phones – has improved camera and larger display size than its predecessor, LG L Bello. For its design, the second gen Bello has a plastic cover with three color choices: white, titan, and gold. The plastic cover case can be opened easily, so changing the case is not a hassle. Single and dual SIM versions for different users’ preference will be on sale as well.
LG L Bello, the predecessor, was released to target teens and new market.
This LG Bello 2 also brings large display to the 3G market. Moreover, the screen has the resolution of 854 x 480 pixels, which is decent. LG Bello 2 has a quad core (seemingly MTK 6582 1.3GHz) processor, together with 1GB RAM and internal storage of 8GB. Users can expand their storage through a microSD card.
The camera on LG Bello 2 offers 8MP at the back and 5MP front. The selfie features such as Gesture Shot and Gesture Flash are integrated, making LG Bello 2 a satisfying choice for those selfie lovers. As the CEO of LG said, LG Bello 2 is a great balance of form, function and price.
There is no detail on price and availability yet, but the phone seems to be launched in India first, followed by Latin America and other areas in Q3, 2015.
LG Bello 2 partial specs:
5-inch display, 854 x 480 @196ppi
1.3GHz quad-core processor
1GB RAM
8GB internal storage, microSd
8-megapixel rear camera, LED flash
5-megapixel front camera Dual-SIM, Dual-Standby (Optional)
3G/HSPA+
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth 4.0
2,540mAh battery
Android 5.1.1 Lollipop with LG UX 4
Colors: Titan, Gold and White
Although these unique smart phones are not as hot as the flagship killers nowadays, the release of them in the techonology market is something to look for. Their unique features offer users a lot of meaningful and useful utilities, no matter how unpopular they are. Moreover, the ideas that were once just concepts coming true is what these phones are appreciated for.
PricePony’s recommended list of the most unique smartphones
This LG product is the world’s first curved, flexible smart phone. Apart from its powerful Snapdragon™ 800 2.26 GHz Quad-Core Processor, the thing truly makes this phone unique is its ability to heal itself after being scratched.
Yotaphone
This product is an e-book reader integrated into a smart phone. The front is the regular phone screen, the back is an E-ink display. With 2 screens, Yotaphone allows users to have both a smart phone and an ebook reader at pocket size.
Nokia Lumia 1020
Although Nokia seems to be not as appealing as before, Nokia Lumia 1020 has the highest camera resolution among smart phones. With 41MP, the phone deserves large attention.
Samsung’s famous edge screen products. The side curved screen certainly gained attention to Samsung through these devices.
Oppo N3
This Oppo N3 device may be very popular among selfie lovers. With a camera that can flip around, Oppo N3 gives you the best experience while photo shooting. No more worrying about low quality selfies!
This smart phone is a special product in Japan, bringing the emotion of Japan’s many disasters. As it can detect radiation in the air, this phone is certainly very meaningful to this country’s citizen.
Turing phone
The new Turing smart phone is built stronger than steel with extra security. It connects through a special network with finger sensors, and the price of this phone is also extra high.
As a tradition found in previous years, Samsung usually launched there Note series during IFA event in early September. However, since the iPhone 6S has been announced and is receiving a lot of attention, Samsung seem to want an early start in sales for their upcoming flagships: the Galaxy Note 5 and Galaxy S6 Edge+. Both devices are said to be launch in an event on August 12 and go straight on sale before the end of the month.
To prepare for the important release, both smartphones have just went through certification process in Singapore’s IDA database. Completing that, the Galaxy Note 5 and Galaxy S6 Edge+ carry model number SM-N920I and SM-G928I respectively.
Let us talk a bit about the Galaxy Note 5 and Galaxy S6 Edge+ design. Both devices are confirmed to carry a metal unibody with premium glass like the popular Galaxy S6/S6 Edge. This also implies that their batteries will be non-removable and they may not have expandable mircoSD card slots.
Briefing in terms of Galaxy Note 5 specs, the smartphone features a 5.7” with beautiful Quad HD display. The Note 5 will also run Samsung Exynos chipset with octa-core processor. Other specs like RAM and battery are not finalized yet, but we really expect the device to come with 4GB RAM and a huge 4,100 mAH.
One of the many Galaxy Note 5 renders.
Now it’s Galaxy S6 Edge+ turn for some specs reveal. The flagship will be carrying a Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 processor just like the LG G4 with Exynos 7420 chipset and 3GB of RAM. For now, you maybe wondering what are the differences between the S6 Edge+ and its predecessor standard S6 Edge. What we know so far is that, the Plus version will have a slightly larger screen (5.4” compared to 5.3”) and a bigger battery (3,000 mAH).
Will the S6 Edge Plus version look any different from the original one?
Philippines is a good market of Samsung. And because of that, we can totally expect the couple flagship to arrive locally in around September, after they hit the shelves in their hometown Korea. We will surely keep you updated with any further news about the Galaxy Note 5 and Galaxy S6 Edge+ since there is no track about their pricing as well as availability yet.
Nokia is a big name among the companies competing in the technology market, especially mobile phones. The company has made its reputation for producing high quality phones with tough and long lasting life. Earlier this year, Nokia has announced its come back in the market. It seems this giant wants to reclaim its position, with a lot of things unveiled. For example, Nokia Power Ranger is a concept that brings a lot of attention. What will be Nokia‘s ace in its next step?
Nokia Power Ranger boasts a very futuristic image
Recently, Nokia has announced its VIP event on July 28 with some teaser images. According to the teaser, it seems that this global brand is planning to develop a new kind of camera on smart phones.
The teaser images introduce Hyperspectral imaging and Array cameras. Nokia probably is going to launch something related to professional cameras, targeting both professional photographer and video making companies.
Hyperspectral imaging is a technology used in cameras that allows your device to analyse the chemical composition of the things captured. Array cameras offer you the ability to alter image depth, after-cature focus, and produce high quality 3D images and videos. This seems to match well with Nokia’s seemingly plan on the professional camera field.
You now can know what chemical composition of Minions
These technologies will certainly be used on smart phones. However, which brand will it be integrated into is the question. We will know the detailed answers on July 28, so let’s keep up with the info until that day. Whatever being released will be a big boom in the market, and it seems Nokia is already getting a lot of attention – the thing the brand need most right now.
More than anything, battery is the first function your smartphone need in order to start the whole device. Having a good phone with good specs that run loads of apps smoothly makes no sense if your battery can stand no longer than couple of hours. That explains why many smartphone users care a lot about their battery life and how to extend it as much as possible.
However, we found that, these are the most common misconception that smartphone user have about the battery. Check it out if you have any 🙂
1. Charging your phone overnight will damage your battery
Many people tend to think this way, to be honest. However, most smartphones nowadays are smart enough to know when their battery is full and will automatically stop “receiving” power.
False. Most smartphones are now “smart” enough to know when a battery is at capacity and will stop charging. However, there is one thing you can do to extend the life of your battery. Instead of charging your phone all night, every night, try keeping it charged between 40% and 80% most of the time. This will ensure the longest possible life from that battery. If you can leave it unplugged overnight (every so often), do so.
2. Don’t use your phone while it charges
Same with misconception number 1, we have heard many suggestions saying that using a phone while it is charging will spoil the battery life. Actually, your battery will charge as expected whether or not you use the device. Because the way smartphones work is that, it is only free from using data when you turn it off. So even if you are not actively using it, the phone is using itself.
3. Turning off your phone regularly can damage your battery
When you turn your smartphone off for a long period of time, the battery will run out. And this make users assume turning off the device damage your battery. This is not true because the battery can be easily restore with a simple reboot. Also, it is advised to give your phone battery a break once in a while to keep it alive even longer.
4. It is best to charge your phone to full before first using it
Many people think that the first thing they should do with a new smartphone is plug it in and charge it to 100%. Please keep in mind that, smartphone batteries work best when it is in between of 40% to 80% capacity. Most new smartphone you buy come with half of the battery capacity, and this is perfect to just start exploring your babe.
Quick tip on this: If you receive the device first time with below 40% battery, you can ask for a change because that is the sign the battery could be very old at that moment.
5. Putting smartphone batteries in the freezer to extend its life
If you have ever thought of it, it is a WRONG conception. There is no way staying in the freeze will help your smartphone battery live longer. In contrast, Li-Ion batteries can even be harmed by both heat and cold rather than room temperature. The best condition for it to be cooled down after a long period of using is to be stored in somewhere that have some airflow.
6. Turning off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS keep your battery longer
It sounds so true and seems so true. But trust us, it is not like that. These services only eat out your smartphone battery when they are in use. So even if you are having your Bluetooth turn on but are not using it, it makes no difference. The same with Wi-fi and GPS.
7. Running internet apps will eat out the smartphone battery faster
No no no no no 🙂 The only thing that can run down your battery faster than average is gaming. Because smartphone games have massive graphics and can drain you power very quickly.
Tips: turning down the display’s brightness can have prolong your battery.
8. Task managers help prolong your battery life
We have to say this is such a good trick that app developers use to attract more people download their app. Actually, beside helping to separate whitelist/blacklist tasks, those task manager apps can’t help save no more than the battery use for built-in system, which is very little.
HtC mobile has just announced another phone to be released this July. HTC Desire 626s, the latest HTC mobile, is priced at only $129, and is already a rival to many more phones, even the HTC Desire 510.
The phone is set to hit the stores in USA on July 29. It features Snapdragon 210 processor, 1.5 GB of RAM, 8 GB of internal storage and a 5-inch 720p display. The screen looks sharp and bright enough for a budget phone. Adreno 304 for GPU provides quite high graphics. For $129 price tag, HTC Desire 626s is not a bad deal.
There are 2 cameras on this device, an 8MP main one and 2MP on the front. Video recording is also supported at 720p@30fps. 2000mAh battery is good enough for all day use. HTC Desire 626s is also pleasing to the eye despite not having any metal frame. It looks solid and firm enough. Moreover, With the Desire 626S, you’re getting the same software you would get with the HTC One M9. The only downsides are that it is a downgraded version of the 626 one, and the processor is not so good.
HTC Desire 626s will be available in the USA through Sprint Prepaid along with the data pack offer.
HTC Desire 626s seems to be another real deal from HTC Mobile. We don’t know when it will be available in the Philippines yet, but let’s wait for some time until we can get hands on this reasonably priced but decent smart phone.
HTC Desire 626s partial specs
146.9 x 70.9 x 8.19 mm
Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 Adreno 304
HTC Sense 7 UI
Android OS, v5.1 (Lollipop)
5 inch display
8 MP, 3264 x 2448 pixels, autofocus, LED flash
2-megapixel front
WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, USB OTG
Li-Ion 2000 mAh battery
Asus Zenflash is the removable flash light that Asus introduced together with their famous flagship Zenfone 2 in Taiwan. The accessory is to support photography and make shooting more fun and effective. The flash is very handy in size and portable enough to be taken anywhere without becoming an obstacle. Asus Zenflash features the Xenon light with the capacity of GN1 to GN4.8, supporting the optimal light range from 0.5 to 2.4m. The accessory also work on older model of Asus Zenfone like Zenfone 4,5,6 etc.
The Asus ZenFlash, “Xenon flash dongle,” and can be connected to smartphones via USB OTG. The device can stick to the phone’s rear panel and is said to offer “100 times” brighter flash than the usual LED flash. Asus has not yet detailed the compatibility of whether it will work with other Non-Asus smartphones.
1. Some advantages of the Asus Zenflash
– Capture pics with better sharpness and less chance of out-of-focus
– Better pics of moving objects
– Really effective for low-light conditions
– Work well under complicated light conditions
2. Some disadvantages of Asus Zenflash
– Automatic white balance function does not work super well
– In the distance of <0.5m, many pictures get over lightened
– Slow capturing speed
Let’s take a look at how it works
Step 1: attach the sticky pad to the back of your Asus smartphone
Step 2: Attach the led flash to the back of your phone
Step 3: Insert the cable string to USB OTG on your phone
Now it is all ready to work and support your picture with best light conditions
The Asus Zenflash is not available in our market yet. But for those who are a fan of Asus Zenfone and a fan of photography, this convenient accessory can be an ideal companion on your travel and photography journeys. What a good combination can be with 13MP Asus Zenfone 2 camera and special LED flash support!
As of nowadays, smartphones are an inseparable part of life to many people. However, smart phones can be used not only for sending messages and making calls, but for many other things as well. Below are things to do with your smart phones that can make your life more convenient and fun.
Catch fish
You’d be asking why catching fish can be done with a smart phone. Here’s the thing :
The Deeper Fish finder device helps you to locate fish in both fresh and salt water.The device and Deeper app works best with most phones, but we recommend Samsung Galaxy S5 or Sony Xperia Z3.
Monitor heart race
Many smart devices nowadays offers health features such as the Samsung Galaxy S6. You can always monitor your heart rate with apps on your phone. Instant Heart Rate is one of these apps.
Prevent drunk driving
Just have an all-out party with your friends and still sure you’re sober? Well, you think so, but probably not. The new Bluetooth BACtrack Vio Smartphone Breathlyzer will decide whether you can drive or not. It also predicts when your alcohol level drops to 0%, so make sure you’d want to call a cab home.
Record Your Snores
Ok, this sounds absurd, but isn’t debating on who snores in the night one of the popular arguments? Night Recorder is an app on iOS that begins recording when it detects noise.Let’s find out who snores!
Camera Timer
The EOS for Canon is an app used for Canon camera that works with a smart phone. Just connect your phone with the Canon, and the app will do the timing for you. Yay, no more asking strangers.
Feed your pet
If you’re not home and still want to keep your pet full, try Pintofeed.This feeder allows you to schedule your pet’s feeding time and the amount of food, and feeds them on time for you. It works with many devices run on Android, iOS or Windows 8.
Sony Xperia C4 and C4 Dual are the selfie smartphones featured by Sony several months ago. Today, the Xperia C4 is ready to hit the shelves in PH. You can now find it in some big Sony stores. The device is going on online distributors soon, hopefully you can order it from home by next week.
The Sony Xperia C4 price in the Philippines is at PHP 17,090.
Sony wanted to upgrade the selfie phenomenon into a totally new level, so they equipped the Xperia C4 with best-in-class 5MP front camera. While 5MP does not sound as impressive camera as 13MP of Asus Zenfone Selfie, this Xperia C4 front camera includes many special sensors from Sony.
It is to name: Exmor R sensor, OIS, red-eye reduction, LED Flash and more amazingly, the super wide-angle lens up to 25mm. Such combination capture the best selfie pictures even under low-light conditions.
“Following the success of Xperia C3, we are proud to introduce Sony’s evolved PROselfie smartphone,”
Tony McNulty, Vice-President, Value Category Business Management at Sony Mobile Communications said.
Besides the special selfie camera that brings most attention the the phone, Sony Xperia C4 also come with many other good specs. Take a look of them to see whether it has what you are looking for.
As we updated from the earlier news, Cherry Mobile has unveiled its latest devices on the company’s official website. Among the devices that appear on those brochures, Cherry Mobile Omega 3 is spotted right on in the octa-core section, with a price tag of PHP 5,939
Cherry Mobile Omega 3 on the brochure list
The device has a ridiculous name, yes. It sounds like you’re going to to order some kind of organic food or so. However, the phone has nice specs, with a good design according to the leaked photos. Additionally, it is called “Omega 3”. Even the name gives enough reasons to take an interest in this phone.
Looking at the list of specs, we can speculate that Cherry Mobile Omega 3 will be a very good phone for its price tag. A 1.4GHz octa-core processor and Mali 450GPu, together with 2GB of RAM will give the phone enough power to operate at quite a high speed. Moreover, 16GB of internal storage is quite a lot, which means you will not have to worry about storing data.
Dual SIM lets users to switch between work and personal life well. The cameras are decent too, as 13MP is high for a main one and 5MP is good for a front one. 5.5’ IPS display is also a plus. To give you a better picture, the Cherry Mobile Omega 3 shares the same camera features with Asus Zenfone 2 551ML, and Sony’s selfie smartphone Xperia C4, both of which also pack 13MP and 5MP.
As people are more and more interested in camera and selfie smartphones, producers try to meet up such need in order to sell more items. Our favorite local brand is not an exception also. We are highly expecting this movement of will make a hit for the brand when they launch the Cherry Mobile Omega 3.
On the company’s official website, Cherry Mobile has unveiled the list of new smartphones and tablets on sale this Q3. It seems our local mobile company wants to make Q3 a big season for its products.
Along the new devices in this brochure are the trending Cherry Mobile Touch 3G, Cherry Mobile Flare X and Omega 3. The Touch 3G is a good choice for a budget smartphone, while the Flare X and Omega 3 ‘s Full HD screens will satisfy your entertainment purposes.
Spin Lite, Touch 3G, Touch XL, Flare Lite Quad, Flare S3 Lite, Flare X, Omega 3 and Cosmos Two for Smart phones
Full list of Q3 brochure can be founded on the company’s homepage. You can take at look at our review on Cherry Mobile Cubix Cube, its latest flagship, to see how good Cherry Mobiles are.
Sony Xperia Ultra Max Pro Specs: 200MP Cameras, 19100mAh Battery!
Nokia Titan 2026 Specs: 16GB RAM, 9700mAh Battery!
