http://apcmag.com/ APC Magazine covers the latest in computing with a critical, independent eye to help you make the most of your tech dollar. http://apcmag.com//freeeedom-optus-3g-home-zone-to-unshackle-your-home-phone-this-weekend.htm http://apcmag.com//freeeedom-optus-3g-home-zone-to-unshackle-your-home-phone-this-weekend.htm

Sick of line rental and mobile dropouts? Optus's new 3G Home Zone puts a broadband-powered mini base station in your living room, in a bid to lure users away from Telstra.]]> Fri, 29 Jul 2011 17:05:20 +1000 http://apcmag.com//your-own-personal-mobile-tower-femtocells.htm http://apcmag.com//your-own-personal-mobile-tower-femtocells.htm

If mobile reception is giving you the blues in your home or workplace, femtocells may just be the answer, and they're perhaps not as far off as you might think. ]]> Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:19:56 +1000 http://apcmag.com//iphone-4-outright-pricing-to-start-from-859.htm http://apcmag.com//iphone-4-outright-pricing-to-start-from-859.htm

UPDATED with 32GB price | Apple Australia tags the 16GB iPhone 4 at $859 outright, with the new entry-level 8GB iPhone 3GS landing at $719.]]> Mon, 26 Jul 2010 23:21:30 +1000 http://apcmag.com//samsung-galaxy-s-australia-optus-release.htm http://apcmag.com//samsung-galaxy-s-australia-optus-release.htm

Optus will launch Samsung’s second-gen Android Galaxy S smartphone on Thursday July 1st, ‘free’ at $59/month and selling outright for $849; a Telstra Next G model is set to follow.]]> Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:20:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//nokia-n8-smartphone-due-early-october-for-under-550.htm http://apcmag.com//nokia-n8-smartphone-due-early-october-for-under-550.htm

The first in Nokia’s wave of Symbian^3 smartphones will take aim at the mass market with treats such as free turn-by-turn navigation.]]> Tue, 22 Jun 2010 23:55:33 +1000 http://apcmag.com//samsung-rolls-out-three-new-android-handsets-plus-wave-2-duo-for-bada.htm http://apcmag.com//samsung-rolls-out-three-new-android-handsets-plus-wave-2-duo-for-bada.htm

While yet to release the latest Android and Bada smartphones in Australia, Samsung already has a fleet of new Android ‘Galaxy’ and Bada ‘Wave’ handsets on the launchpad.]]> Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//portable-fuel-cell-powers-gadgets-with-water.htm http://apcmag.com//portable-fuel-cell-powers-gadgets-with-water.htm

A new handheld fuel cell system can power or charge your phone or GPS using hydrogen extracted from water. Yes, water. ]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:59:49 +1000 http://apcmag.com//inside-android-gingerbread-google-shows-off-future-phone-features.htm http://apcmag.com//inside-android-gingerbread-google-shows-off-future-phone-features.htm

Future Android releases will include over-the-air application installs, a music store and automated voice control. Plus: what's cool in Froyo. ]]> Fri, 21 May 2010 06:15:29 +1000 http://apcmag.com//leaked-windows-phone-7-rom-reveals-htc-mondrian.htm http://apcmag.com//leaked-windows-phone-7-rom-reveals-htc-mondrian.htm

A leaked ROM image for Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 OS could contain the first glimpse of HTC’s Windows Phone 7 handset, codenamed ‘Mondrian’]]> Tue, 18 May 2010 12:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-slider-with-blackberry-6-os-set-for-mid-year-launch.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-slider-with-blackberry-6-os-set-for-mid-year-launch.htm

RIM’s anticipated Bold 9800 slider, which combines a QWERTY keyboard with a touchscreen and packs the new BlackBerry 6 OS, counts down to a mid-year debut.]]> Tue, 18 May 2010 11:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus-boosts-data-caps-in-new-timeless-max-mobile-plans.htm http://apcmag.com//optus-boosts-data-caps-in-new-timeless-max-mobile-plans.htm

With upwards of 1.5GB of data plus ‘unlimited’ talk and text starting from $99, Optus seeks to match Vodafone’s Unlimited Cap plans.]]> Thu, 13 May 2010 08:17:54 +1000 http://apcmag.com//android-overtakes-iphone-in-us-smartphone-market.htm http://apcmag.com//android-overtakes-iphone-in-us-smartphone-market.htm

A surge in Android sales has seen Google’s open-source smartphone OS shoot past the iPhone in the US consumer market as Windows Mobile slumps towards single-digit insignificance.]]> Wed, 12 May 2010 09:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-set-to-overtake-blackberry-in-worldwide-smartphone-sales.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-set-to-overtake-blackberry-in-worldwide-smartphone-sales.htm

Apple’s iPhone is on track to surge past the iconic BlackBerry in the global smartphones stakes by the middle of this year, while touchscreen devices already blitz QWERTY models.]]> Wed, 05 May 2010 10:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-releases-gps-fix-for-htc-desire.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-releases-gps-fix-for-htc-desire.htm

Quick work by Telstra and HTC offers Desire customers the choice between an over-the-air firmware update and a downloadable ROM image to let their smartphone see those GPS birds.]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2010 20:33:15 +1000 http://apcmag.com//carriers-lined-up-to-launch-sony-ericsson-android-powered-xperia-x10.htm http://apcmag.com//carriers-lined-up-to-launch-sony-ericsson-android-powered-xperia-x10.htm

VHA’s 3 network has already landed the Xperia X10, Telstra launches next Tuesday and both Optus and Vodafone are expected to follow within the next fortnight.]]> Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:59:51 +1000 http://apcmag.com//hp-to-buy-palm-for-us12bn.htm http://apcmag.com//hp-to-buy-palm-for-us12bn.htm

Palm may get a new lease on life thanks to the overnight buyout by HP, which was once Palm’s biggest competitor owing to its range of Windows-powered iPaq PDAs.]]> Thu, 29 Apr 2010 08:37:49 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-6-os-set-for-release-in-q3.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-6-os-set-for-release-in-q3.htm

RIM’s sexed-up smartphone OS will sport a slick new UI with revamped apps, Webkit browser, multiple home screens and RSS feeds. Plus: get ready for ‘Super Apps’.]]> Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:55:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//nokia-previews-first-smartphone-based-on-open-source-symbian-os.htm http://apcmag.com//nokia-previews-first-smartphone-based-on-open-source-symbian-os.htm

Nokia’s touchscreen N8 marks the first in a new series of devices built around the new open-source Symbian 3 platform.]]> Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-rushes-to-fix-wonky-gps-on-htc-desire.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-rushes-to-fix-wonky-gps-on-htc-desire.htm

Can’t get a GPS lock with your shiny new HTC Desire smartphone? Telstra says that a software SNAFU is the reason and is rushing to issue a fix “as a matter of urgency”.]]> Tue, 27 Apr 2010 10:20:58 +1000 http://apcmag.com//did-apples-new-iphone-get-nicked.htm http://apcmag.com//did-apples-new-iphone-get-nicked.htm

A prototype iPhone got left in a bar . . . no, it's not the start of a joke.]]> Tue, 20 Apr 2010 16:45:56 +1000 http://apcmag.com//nokia-dials-up-new-social-networking-phones.htm http://apcmag.com//nokia-dials-up-new-social-networking-phones.htm

The trend towards enhanced ‘feature phones’ built around messaging and social networking continues with Nokia’s new C-series handsets.]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2010 10:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htc-to-buy-palm.htm http://apcmag.com//htc-to-buy-palm.htm

Palm is up for sale, and HTC is said to be lining up to make a bid on the struggling smartphone maker.]]> Tue, 13 Apr 2010 09:45:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//microsoft-reveals-new-kin-social-networking-smartphones.htm http://apcmag.com//microsoft-reveals-new-kin-social-networking-smartphones.htm

The pair of Windows-powered QWERTY phones replaces the Hiptop series for Twittering tweens and Facebook fiends, and will run on Vodafone’s 3G network.]]> Tue, 13 Apr 2010 06:55:33 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-launches-sony-ericsson-android-powered-xperia-x10-on-may-4th.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-launches-sony-ericsson-android-powered-xperia-x10-on-may-4th.htm

Telstra adds a second Android phone to its roster from next month, with the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 starting at $99/month or $1,099 outright.]]> Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:42:37 +1000 http://apcmag.com//rim-releases-home-grown-twitter-app-for-blackberry.htm http://apcmag.com//rim-releases-home-grown-twitter-app-for-blackberry.htm

RIM’s Twitter app for your BlackBerry is now available in public beta, with support for ‘push tweets’ just like push emails.]]> Fri, 09 Apr 2010 13:02:04 +1000 http://apcmag.com//sony-ericsson-android-powered-xperia-x10-launch-this-month-on-all-aussie-3g-networks.htm http://apcmag.com//sony-ericsson-android-powered-xperia-x10-launch-this-month-on-all-aussie-3g-networks.htm

The first Android smartphone from Sony Ericsson hits Australia later this month on Optus, Telstra, Vodafone and Three, on contract and outright sale.]]> Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:51:30 +1000 http://apcmag.com//apple-preps-new-notebooks-and-iphone-os-40.htm http://apcmag.com//apple-preps-new-notebooks-and-iphone-os-40.htm

April will be a busy month for Apple with the unveilling of iPhone OS 4.0 later this week and new MacBook, MacBook Pro and MacBook Air notebooks tipped for the end of the month.]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:32:52 +1000 http://apcmag.com//microsoft-to-reveal-new-hiptop-smartphones-next-week.htm http://apcmag.com//microsoft-to-reveal-new-hiptop-smartphones-next-week.htm

The next-gen Hiptop will sport a slick UI inspired by Windows Phone 7 and take aim at the twittering tweens, teens and twentysomething social networking set.]]> Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:09:34 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus-unlocks-access-to-paid-android-apps.htm http://apcmag.com//optus-unlocks-access-to-paid-android-apps.htm

Ahead of next week’s expected launch of new Android handsets, Optus has finally enabled access to paid apps on the Android Marketplace.]]> Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:52:43 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-to-launch-htc-desire-on-april-27-from-60month-780-outright.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-to-launch-htc-desire-on-april-27-from-60month-780-outright.htm

HTC’s Android-powered Desire smartphone will make its Aussie debut on Telstra’s Next G network next month with plans starting at $60 per month.]]> Thu, 25 Mar 2010 12:15:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//spy-shots-rim-readies-blackberry-9900-touchscreen-slider.htm http://apcmag.com//spy-shots-rim-readies-blackberry-9900-touchscreen-slider.htm

The BlackBerry 9900 looks set to bring together the best of both worlds with a touchscreen and slider keyboard combo.]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:26:50 +1000 http://apcmag.com//april-is-android-month-for-aussie-phone-vendors.htm http://apcmag.com//april-is-android-month-for-aussie-phone-vendors.htm

A fistful of phones running Google’s open-source OS are set to launch next month, giving Android a boost while Microsoft waits for Windows Phone 7.]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-vha-blackberry-storm-2-launch.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-vha-blackberry-storm-2-launch.htm

Vodafone will release RIM's upgraded Storm 2 smartphone this Thursday on a $69 cap plan with $450 of national and international calls.]]> Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-readies-storm-2-for-aussie-launch.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-readies-storm-2-for-aussie-launch.htm

RIM is gearing up for local release of the second-gen Storm 2, but which carrier will score the touchscreen smartphone?]]> Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:49:41 +1000 http://apcmag.com//mobile-phone-networks-open-skype-calls-on-3g.htm http://apcmag.com//mobile-phone-networks-open-skype-calls-on-3g.htm

In a promising sign of things to come, US carriers are now starting to permit Skype calls over the 3G mobile network.]]> Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//microsoft-what-we-learnt-from-the-iphone-and-what-apple-can-learn-from-us.htm http://apcmag.com//microsoft-what-we-learnt-from-the-iphone-and-what-apple-can-learn-from-us.htm

Apple’s tight integration of hardware and software pointed the way for Windows Phone 7, admits Microsoft, but it sledges the iPhone’s UI as out-dated.]]> Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//is-android-ready-for-aussie-prime-time.htm http://apcmag.com//is-android-ready-for-aussie-prime-time.htm

Samsung exec says Android is suffering from “low consumer awareness” in Australia, but sides with Telstra that the open-source mobile OS is set to soar.]]> Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//microsoft-locks-out-windows-phone-7-customisations-from-htc-and-telstra.htm http://apcmag.com//microsoft-locks-out-windows-phone-7-customisations-from-htc-and-telstra.htm

Microsoft confirms that UI overlays such as HTC’s Sense will be banned from Windows Phone 7 platform, with carrier rebranding also being slapped down.]]> Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:08:30 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-snares-android-powered-htc-desire-for-april-launch.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-snares-android-powered-htc-desire-for-april-launch.htm

Despite a three-month exclusivity deal on HTC’s new flagship Android smartphone, Telstra promises pricing will be “very aggressive’.]]> Wed, 17 Feb 2010 03:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htc-unveils-hd-mini-smartphone.htm http://apcmag.com//htc-unveils-hd-mini-smartphone.htm

HTC’s deliciously big-screen HD2 is downsized into the new HD Mini, with Telstra tipped as the Australian launch partner.]]> Wed, 17 Feb 2010 01:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//microsoft-goes-back-to-the-drawing-board-with-windows-phone-7.htm http://apcmag.com//microsoft-goes-back-to-the-drawing-board-with-windows-phone-7.htm

Windows phones should no longer look and work like Windows PCs, says Microsoft, as it overhauls its mobile OS in a ‘last chance’ catch-up to Apple and Google.]]> Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:38:36 +1000 http://apcmag.com//oops-samsung-renames-corby-smartphones-for-aussie-release.htm http://apcmag.com//oops-samsung-renames-corby-smartphones-for-aussie-release.htm

Samsung’s global 2010 lineup includes two phones bearing the name of the convicted drug smuggler, but the names will be changed for local release...]]> Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:00:08 +1000 http://apcmag.com//iphone-overtakes-windows-mobile-in-sales-and-usage.htm http://apcmag.com//iphone-overtakes-windows-mobile-in-sales-and-usage.htm

2009 has been a much better year for Apple than it has for Microsoft, with the iPhone eclipsing Windows Mobile in the US market.]]> Tue, 29 Dec 2009 15:12:32 +1000 http://apcmag.com//motorola-milestone-is-this-the-droid-we-are-looking-for.htm http://apcmag.com//motorola-milestone-is-this-the-droid-we-are-looking-for.htm

The marketing tagline for this blockbuster Android phone is "Droid Does, iDont" -- squarely mocking the iPhone. So does it live up to expectations?]]> Sun, 27 Dec 2009 14:54:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-unleashes-99-unlimited-calls-plan-for-blackberry-bold-9700.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-unleashes-99-unlimited-calls-plan-for-blackberry-bold-9700.htm

$99 per month gets you unlimited calls and texts through Vodafone, with a side serve of mobile data plus a BlackBerry Bold 9700 handset.]]> Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:39:43 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htc-exec-no-plans-for-telstra-next-g-hero.htm http://apcmag.com//htc-exec-no-plans-for-telstra-next-g-hero.htm

HTC confirms it has no plans to release a Next G version of its Hero smartphone in Australia, despite a compatible 850MHz 3G model being available in North America.]]> Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-and-vodafone-roll-out-blackberry-bold-9700.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-and-vodafone-roll-out-blackberry-bold-9700.htm

Telstra is first past the post, with its Next G Bold 9700 on sale from tomorrow, while Vodafone circles December 2nd and unveils new ‘unlimited’ $99 plans.]]> Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:07:27 +1000 http://apcmag.com//spy-shots-reveal-blackberry-pearl-9100-with-3g.htm http://apcmag.com//spy-shots-reveal-blackberry-pearl-9100-with-3g.htm

The candybar-shaped Pearl follows the Curve and Bold in getting a stylish makeover, and a 3G radio lurks under the slick black covers.]]> Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//opera-mobile-10-makes-life-tougher-for-microsoft.htm http://apcmag.com//opera-mobile-10-makes-life-tougher-for-microsoft.htm

With HTC and Samsung pre-installing Opera Mobile as the default browser on their Windows Mobile smartphones, the newest version 10 ups the ante for Internet Explorer Mobile.]]> Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-hits-the-streets.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-hits-the-streets.htm

Optus is the first carrier to list the BlackBerry Bold 97000, which makes its debut on a $79/month plan – oddly, the same price as the Bold 9000...]]> Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//samsung-details-new-bada-smartphone-os.htm http://apcmag.com//samsung-details-new-bada-smartphone-os.htm

Do we really need another smartphone OS? Samsung thinks so... its new Bada OS will debut next month, with the first handsets and Bada app store due by min-2010.]]> Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htcs-challenge-what-price-a-hero.htm http://apcmag.com//htcs-challenge-what-price-a-hero.htm

Will HTC’s decision to sidestep the subsidised handset plans of mobile phone carriers and sell the Hero and Tattoo outright help or hinder its new Android smartphones? ]]> Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:22:46 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htc-hero-makes-aussie-debut.htm http://apcmag.com//htc-hero-makes-aussie-debut.htm

In a turnabout move HTC side sidesteps all four Australian mobile carriers to launch its Android-powered Hero and Tattoo smartphones unlocked and for outright sale.]]> Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:47:32 +1000 http://apcmag.com//app-stores-converge-at-app-planet-2010.htm http://apcmag.com//app-stores-converge-at-app-planet-2010.htm

App stores are where it's all happening – so much so that the annual Mobile World Congress is launching the App Planet 2010 expo to claim slice of the action.]]> Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//dell-unveils-mini-3-android-smartphone.htm http://apcmag.com//dell-unveils-mini-3-android-smartphone.htm

Making its debut in China and Brazil, the Mini 3 is the first of several expected Dell smartphones based on Google’s Android platform.]]> Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//turn-your-name-into-your-phone-number.htm http://apcmag.com//turn-your-name-into-your-phone-number.htm

A new Aussie Web site allows you to find what mobile number corresponds to your name – and if you’re so inclined, auction off your number to the highest bidder.]]> Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//smartphone-shake-up-windows-mobile-falls-behind-iphone-and-blackberry.htm http://apcmag.com//smartphone-shake-up-windows-mobile-falls-behind-iphone-and-blackberry.htm

Microsoft’s slice of the worldwide smartphone market slumps into single digits and is barely twice the share of newcomer Android, while the iPhone and BlackBerry pull well ahead.]]> Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:25:36 +1000 http://apcmag.com//facebook-iphone-developer-quits-over-apples-app-store-policies.htm http://apcmag.com//facebook-iphone-developer-quits-over-apples-app-store-policies.htm

The developer behind Facebook’s popular iPhone app has quit the project, citing frustration with Apple’s much-criticised policies surrounding approval (or not) for iPhone apps.]]> Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//best-deals-on-the-blackberry-bold-9700.htm http://apcmag.com//best-deals-on-the-blackberry-bold-9700.htm

BlackBerry fans eager to upgrade to the new Bold 9700 are scooping them up from overseas stores and back-channel importers – and at less than $700, who can blame them?]]> Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:14:04 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htc-sets-aussie-launch-of-hero-and-tattoo-android-phones.htm http://apcmag.com//htc-sets-aussie-launch-of-hero-and-tattoo-android-phones.htm

The aptly-named Hero and the more mainstream Tattoo smartphones will make their Australian debut next week on Optus' dual-band 3G network.]]> Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:16:54 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-launches.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-launches.htm

Telstra, Optus and the Vodafone-3 alliance now known as VHA are all lined up to carry the new Bold 9700, a smartphone described as “the best BlackBerry ever”.]]> Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:50:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//google-builds-turn-by-turn-navigation-into-android-20.htm http://apcmag.com//google-builds-turn-by-turn-navigation-into-android-20.htm

The next wave of Android-powered smartphones will include free turn-by-turn navigation software powered by Google Maps and Google Street View. ]]> Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:21:28 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-debuts-next-week.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-debuts-next-week.htm

The slimmed-down yet souped-up smartphone makes its Australia debut next week, with Vodafone among the launch carriers – but public release isn’t expected until late next month.]]> Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:57:12 +1000 http://apcmag.com//rim-readies-broad-release-of-blackberry-os-50.htm http://apcmag.com//rim-readies-broad-release-of-blackberry-os-50.htm

The fresher, faster and funkier BlackBerry operating system 5.0 is just around the corner, with new builds leaking at a rate of knots – but it's not for every BlackBerry handset.]]> Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//rtim-unveils-blackberry-bold-9700.htm http://apcmag.com//rtim-unveils-blackberry-bold-9700.htm

Take the best BlackBerry to date, trim the size but spec up the features, and you’ve got the new BlackBerry Bold 9700.]]> Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:06:19 +1000 http://apcmag.com//android-bitch-slaps-iphone-in-new-tv-adverts.htm http://apcmag.com//android-bitch-slaps-iphone-in-new-tv-adverts.htm

Prime-time TV spots critique the shortcomings of Apple’s iPhone in an attempt to position Android-powered mobiles as the better choice.]]> Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-and-storm-2-set-for-aussie-launch.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-bold-9700-and-storm-2-set-for-aussie-launch.htm

Two sweet second-gen BlackBerrys – the Bold 9700 and touchscreen Storm 2 – are on the launchpad for an Australian release next month.]]> Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:10:24 +1000 http://apcmag.com//dell-readies-android-smartphone-for-2010-launch.htm http://apcmag.com//dell-readies-android-smartphone-for-2010-launch.htm

Reports say the PC powerhouse’s long-awaited Android smartphone will be exclusive to US carrier AT&T , which also enjoys a US stranglehold on the iPhone.]]> Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:10:02 +1000 http://apcmag.com//new-budget-minded-blackberry-curve-8520-kicks-off-on-vodafone.htm http://apcmag.com//new-budget-minded-blackberry-curve-8520-kicks-off-on-vodafone.htm

RIM’s BlackBerry for first-time users pares back the features to hit a more affordable pricing level, with availability this week on Vodafone’s $59/month plan.]]> Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:54:12 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htc-releases-entry-level-tattoo-android-mobile-phone.htm http://apcmag.com//htc-releases-entry-level-tattoo-android-mobile-phone.htm

Following the high-end Dream and Magic smartphones, HTC hopes the entry-level Tattoo with its new ‘Sense’ UI will drive Android into the mainstream.]]> Tue, 06 Oct 2009 02:14:56 +1000 http://apcmag.com//microsoft-htc-and-telstra-to-launch-windows-mobile-65-this-week.htm http://apcmag.com//microsoft-htc-and-telstra-to-launch-windows-mobile-65-this-week.htm

Microsoft is set to lift the covers off Windows Mobile 6.5 this Wednesday, with local launch partners Telstra and HTC joining in for the occasion.]]> Tue, 06 Oct 2009 01:08:42 +1000 http://apcmag.com//sydney-wide-iphone-test-which-carrier-has-best-speed-and-coverage.htm http://apcmag.com//sydney-wide-iphone-test-which-carrier-has-best-speed-and-coverage.htm

Four networks, 150 locations and one sprawling city - Sydney’s most thorough testing of iPhone carriers reveals the winners and sinners for speed and coverage.]]> Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:09:41 +1000 http://apcmag.com//spy-shots-reveal-microsofts-project-pink-smartphones.htm http://apcmag.com//spy-shots-reveal-microsofts-project-pink-smartphones.htm

Microsoft is set to stamp its name onto a new wave of Windows Mobile smartphones aimed at the social networking set. Here’s a sneak peak at ‘Project Pink’.]]> Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:42:35 +1000 http://apcmag.com//google-brings-push-gmail-to-iphone-and-windows-mobile.htm http://apcmag.com//google-brings-push-gmail-to-iphone-and-windows-mobile.htm

Gmail joins Calendar and Contacts as a Google Sync service with instant delivery to any mobile device that supports Exchange ActiveSync.]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:16:17 +1000 http://apcmag.com//motorola-reveals-cliq-android-smartphone.htm http://apcmag.com//motorola-reveals-cliq-android-smartphone.htm

The consumer-minded Cliq puts social networking front and centre, with a beefier ‘mobile professional’ version soon to follow. Alas, we won’t see either until sometime in 2010.]]> Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:36:32 +1000 http://apcmag.com//samsung-preps-android-smartphone-for-aussie-launch.htm http://apcmag.com//samsung-preps-android-smartphone-for-aussie-launch.htm

Next month sees Samsung roll out its full line of touchscreen ‘Icon’ mobiles, among them the Android-powered Galaxy Icon.]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:17:42 +1000 http://apcmag.com//smartphone-chips-hit-1ghz-including-the-next-gen-iphone.htm http://apcmag.com//smartphone-chips-hit-1ghz-including-the-next-gen-iphone.htm

Less than a decade after desktop processors broke the 1GHz barrier, smartphones are set to muscle up. Among them will be devices powered by Samsung’s ARM chips, such as the iPhone.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:40:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//sony-ericcsons-rachel-set-to-join-android-friends.htm http://apcmag.com//sony-ericcsons-rachel-set-to-join-android-friends.htm

It’s codenamed Rachel but we’ll see this Android-powered smartphone debut as the Xperia X3 and sporting a custom Sony Ericsson UI.]]> Wed, 22 Jul 2009 18:29:31 +1000 http://apcmag.com//nokia-6760-qwery-slide-smartphone-for-the-masses.htm http://apcmag.com//nokia-6760-qwery-slide-smartphone-for-the-masses.htm

Nokia hopes its ‘made for messaging’ smartphone will be a low-cost hit with tweens, teens and the Twitterati.]]> Tue, 21 Jul 2009 21:45:11 +1000 http://apcmag.com//rim-to-launch-new-blackberry-sync-software-for-macs.htm http://apcmag.com//rim-to-launch-new-blackberry-sync-software-for-macs.htm

Get an early look at the long-awaited BlackBerry Desktop Manager for Mac OS X, which RIM says will be released in September.]]> Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:53:29 +1000 http://apcmag.com//3-slashes-its-own-iphone-pricing-but-drops-500mb-bonus-for-iphone-3gs.htm http://apcmag.com//3-slashes-its-own-iphone-pricing-but-drops-500mb-bonus-for-iphone-3gs.htm

Mere days after announcing its iPhone pricing, 3 has halved the monthly handset cost across most plans, but the 500MB bonus on the $49 cap has been dropped.]]> Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:48:29 +1000 http://apcmag.com//smartphones-below-par-when-it-comes-to-voice-calls.htm http://apcmag.com//smartphones-below-par-when-it-comes-to-voice-calls.htm

Tests indicate that Blackberry, Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson and even the iPhone provide mixed results when used as a plain old mobile phone.]]> Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:11:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//3s-new-iphone-3gs-plans-to-start-at-57month-free-on-79month-with-1gb.htm http://apcmag.com//3s-new-iphone-3gs-plans-to-start-at-57month-free-on-79month-with-1gb.htm

The 3G-only carrier gears up for this Friday’s release of the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS with both prepaid and contract plans, but with an additional $200 to unlock your iPhone.]]> Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:14:15 +1000 http://apcmag.com//first-impressions-iphone-30-software-update-tethering.htm http://apcmag.com//first-impressions-iphone-30-software-update-tethering.htm

Third time's a charm as Apple releases the long-awaited iPhone 3.0 software update, yet some telcos want to charge extra for tethering.]]> Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:34:02 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telcos-line-up-to-launch-iphone-3g-s-on-june-26.htm http://apcmag.com//telcos-line-up-to-launch-iphone-3g-s-on-june-26.htm

Vodafone and Optus are gearing up for Apple’s souped-up iPhone – but what will the deal be with upgrading to the new model?]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:06:28 +1000 http://apcmag.com//skyfire-mobile-browser-released-for-windows-and-symbian-phones.htm http://apcmag.com//skyfire-mobile-browser-released-for-windows-and-symbian-phones.htm

Finally out of beta, the fresh-baked Skyfire promises to bring desktop-class browsing – with full support for Flash and AJAX – to Windows Mobile and Nokia Symbian S60.3 phones.]]> Sun, 31 May 2009 09:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//htc-magic-launches-in-australia.htm http://apcmag.com//htc-magic-launches-in-australia.htm

Waiting to hear on plans and pricing for HTC’s second-gen ‘Magic’ Android smartphone? Yeah, we are too.]]> Thu, 28 May 2009 10:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-delivers-visual-voicemail-to-aussie-iphone-owners.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-delivers-visual-voicemail-to-aussie-iphone-owners.htm

It’s about time a local carrier gave us the coolness that US iPhone customers have enjoyed for the past two years.]]> Wed, 27 May 2009 19:02:27 +1000 http://apcmag.com//nokias-ovi-app-store-goes-live-in-australia.htm http://apcmag.com//nokias-ovi-app-store-goes-live-in-australia.htm

Local Nokia users have discovered they can access the Ovi Store on their mobiles as the company gears up for this week’s launch of the app store.]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 07:47:16 +1000 http://apcmag.com//rim-ditches-clicky-touchscreen-from-next-gen-blackberry-storm-ii.htm http://apcmag.com//rim-ditches-clicky-touchscreen-from-next-gen-blackberry-storm-ii.htm

The Storm's much-criticised SurePress tactile touchscreen gets the thumbs-down in the second-gen Storm. Plus: RIM preps an impressive 3G version of the Curve 8900.]]> Mon, 25 May 2009 11:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//cartier-slaps-apple-for-fake-watch-iphone-clock-app.htm http://apcmag.com//cartier-slaps-apple-for-fake-watch-iphone-clock-app.htm

It was lawyers at ten paces when luxury brand Cartier took offence over an iPhone app which displayed the time using a look-a-like of a Cartier watch.]]> Sun, 24 May 2009 17:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//vodafone-confirms-htc-magic-android-touchscreen-smartphone-for-australia.htm http://apcmag.com//vodafone-confirms-htc-magic-android-touchscreen-smartphone-for-australia.htm

Vodafone and Three are gearing up for next week's launch of HTC’s Android-powered Magic touchscreen smartphone.]]> Thu, 21 May 2009 12:09:58 +1000 http://apcmag.com//android-moves-into-photo-frames-and-home-phones.htm http://apcmag.com//android-moves-into-photo-frames-and-home-phones.htm

Google’s Android OS is branching out beyond smartphones and rumoured netbooks into digital photo frames and a conventional landline phone for the home.]]> Sun, 17 May 2009 12:52:43 +1000 http://apcmag.com//carriers-cut-new-iphone-deals-fall-as-apple-preps-new-model.htm http://apcmag.com//carriers-cut-new-iphone-deals-fall-as-apple-preps-new-model.htm

UPDATED: Optus and Vodafone both drop their cheapest 'free iPhone' plans to $49 per month to clear stocks ahead of a possible third-gen iPhone in July.]]> Fri, 08 May 2009 18:15:16 +1000 http://apcmag.com//the-dodgy-fine-print-in-optus-new-monster-caps.htm http://apcmag.com//the-dodgy-fine-print-in-optus-new-monster-caps.htm

$680 worth of calls for $49 looks like a great deal, but Optus is again using dodgy fine print to cheat customers.]]> Wed, 06 May 2009 13:17:54 +1000 http://apcmag.com//samsung-ultratouch-is-ultra-sneaky.htm http://apcmag.com//samsung-ultratouch-is-ultra-sneaky.htm

What other phone lets you fake an incoming call, complete with pre-recorded dialogue, so you can escape from a boring meeting or social situation?]]> Mon, 04 May 2009 16:44:06 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry-to-get-live-collaboration-for-chat-calendars-contacts-and-more.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry-to-get-live-collaboration-for-chat-calendars-contacts-and-more.htm

Rumoured BlackBerry groupware app will include shared calendar, photos, contacts, GPS-based locations – and group messages?]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2009 18:20:32 +1000 http://apcmag.com//samsung-releases-android-smartphone.htm http://apcmag.com//samsung-releases-android-smartphone.htm

The consumer electronics powerhouse is adding its muscle to the Android platform with the touchscreen i7500.]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:34:49 +1000 http://apcmag.com//optus-releases-capped-one-plan-for-voice-broadband-and-3g-wireless-kinda-sorta.htm http://apcmag.com//optus-releases-capped-one-plan-for-voice-broadband-and-3g-wireless-kinda-sorta.htm

The ‘Total Business Cap’ is actually a combo of two separate capped plans – one for voice, the other for data – but at least they come on a single bill.]]> Mon, 27 Apr 2009 21:43:38 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstras-next-hiptop-gets-3g-and-gps-taps-into-twitter.htm http://apcmag.com//telstras-next-hiptop-gets-3g-and-gps-taps-into-twitter.htm

Due for US release next month the Hiptop LX 2009, aka Sidekick, gets a high-tech overhaul with HSDPA 3G, a GPS receiver and a range of social networking clients.]]> Tue, 21 Apr 2009 22:12:41 +1000 http://apcmag.com//dual-mode-bluetooth-30-to-boost-data-speeds-and-battery-life.htm http://apcmag.com//dual-mode-bluetooth-30-to-boost-data-speeds-and-battery-life.htm

Set to debut this month the next-gen Bluetooth standard will allow devices to automatically switch between low-power and high-speed modes, and even gets friendly with Wi-Fi.]]> Fri, 10 Apr 2009 22:53:52 +1000 http://apcmag.com//skype-for-blackberry-due-next-month.htm http://apcmag.com//skype-for-blackberry-due-next-month.htm

A BlackBerry version of the VoIP software is expected to be released at next month’s BlackBerry lovefest in Orlando, Florida.]]> Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:39:55 +1000 http://apcmag.com//acer-launching-first-non-windows-smartphone-of-the-year.htm http://apcmag.com//acer-launching-first-non-windows-smartphone-of-the-year.htm

With the smartphone market booming, Acer is going for a piece of the pie, but much to Microsoft's chagrin, they are not doing it with Windows Mobile.]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2009 23:30:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//telstra-to-launch-big-pond-app-store.htm http://apcmag.com//telstra-to-launch-big-pond-app-store.htm

Telstra is working on an Apple-style app store for mobile phones. The icon even looks like Apple's one.]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//palm_set_to_unveil_new_nova_os.htm http://apcmag.com//palm_set_to_unveil_new_nova_os.htm

Palm will debut its overdue next-gen Palm OS codenamed ‘Nova’, along with new smartphones, at January’s Consumer Electronics Show.]]> Thu, 18 Dec 2008 07:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//mobile_firefox_targeting_nokia.htm http://apcmag.com//mobile_firefox_targeting_nokia.htm

Ambitious plans will see Firefox mobile ported to Symbian Smartphones, possibly by as early as April next year.]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//blackberry_unveils_curve_8900.htm http://apcmag.com//blackberry_unveils_curve_8900.htm

While RIM’s new mid-range smartphone brings Bold features and design to the Curve family, the new 8900 remains a GSM-only phone. ]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2008 11:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//best_blackberry_bold_deal_3_optus_telstra_and_vodafone_plans_compared.htm http://apcmag.com//best_blackberry_bold_deal_3_optus_telstra_and_vodafone_plans_compared.htm

With 3 finally releasing the BlackBerry Bold this week, RIM’s souped-up smartphone is available on all four Australian networks. So which carrier’s got the best deal?]]> Tue, 09 Dec 2008 07:00:00 +1000 http://apcmag.com//virtualisation_comes_to_mobile_phones.htm http://apcmag.com//virtualisation_comes_to_mobile_phones.htm

VMware’s new Mobile Virtualisation Platform brings x86-class virtualisation to smartphones. But exactly why do you need a hypervisor in your handset?]]> Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +1000