Handheld computers and communicators CeBIT-2006, Part Two

Thus, the promised continuation of a report from CeBIT-2006 was not long in coming. In this section we'll describe the latest PDAs and communicators from Fujitsu-Siemens, on the issue has not stinted loved by many users of the Russian manufacturers, as well as six natives of the clan MiTAC, a new player in the smartphones of Gigabyte, GPS-G500 device from E- Ten and plans for this wonderful Taiwanese company. Overview escorted impressions of working with the news first hand exclusive information and photos. However, it must first admit that the photos taken by our correspondent is not always successful because of non-ideal lighting conditions, as well as not always honest and accurate representatives of the companies exhibiting at CeBIT-2006. On it right away, please make allowances. All interested and became interested will be grateful for the comments. For sim - proceed.

Fujitsu-Siemens

New models from Fujitsu-Siemens produce an equally good impression as the old model. Excellent build quality, tight-fitting case parts, spoke well buttons (now with the backlight), and as usual with the Fujitsu-Siemens, not artsy strict design. "Man" kind of PDA (line C and N did not differ in appearance) has become somewhat softer ...

FS Pocket LOOX N

Oh, and the CCP itself easier and poizyaschnee predecessor, LOOX 720.

FS Pocket LOOX N and good-old LOOX 720

... And here to present kommuniktor FS (line T) in hand, women have still a little tense.

PDA FS Pocket LOOX 720 PDA T830

LOOX 7xx line was continued in the form of not only equipped with a GPS receiver model Pocket LOOX C550. In all of the other two lines PDA, Pocket LOOX N and Pocket LOOX T, now a built-in GPS Module SiRFstarIII. Can responsibly say that the spectrum of new models of PDA Fujitsu-Siemens makes it unnecessary compromises choose exactly the solution that is necessary for your needs. The model number is chosen carefully and weighed. Designer of the parameters of the CPC is also collected in each model with great skill. All new PDAs and communicators running Windows Mobile 5.0 and equipped with 64 MB RAM and 128 MB ROM (except model N500 c 64 MB of ROM).The frequency of the same in all models of Intel PXA270 processor varies depending on the device class from 312 to 624 MHz. And, in my opinion, the frequency chosen for each CCP optimal way. The same in all PDA 1200 mAh removable battery in the case of smartphones has increased the capacity of 1500 mAh. Without exception, all models feature a USB Host, which is traditional for Fujitsu-Siemens. The only perhaps disadvantage is the fact that all models of C and N are now removed the scroll wheel (Jog Dial). Models LOOX C550 and LOOX N560 equipped with a VGA screen, which became brighter and more contrast than the screen LOOX 720. However, at the minimum brightness of the image on the old and new handheld looks equally bright, which is very good for low light conditions.

PDA FS Pocket LOOX 720 PDA Pocket LOOX C / N

First communicators FS leave no less favorable impression than a PDA-cousins. The truth might be about 3-5 millimeters thinner for really quite elegant in appearance. Quality of execution - good. A video camera on the front side of the model LOOX T830 successfully hides behind a sliding cover, although probably under it may accumulate dirt. Built-in keyboard works fine, set with two fingers is not difficult, the text can dial quickly and without errors.

FS Pocket LOOX T830: an open "eye" camera

To screen all PDAs as well as to the speed (of course only to the extent that you can try for 5 minutes), no complaints, everything is fine. Overall impression of the work with all devices fully consistent with the concept of a traditional German quality. I suppose that the new LOOX models definitely find a considerable number of its users, and we have not once will be happy to write about the updates from the company Fujitsu-Siemens. For clarity, I will give a summary table of the most important characteristics of the new model series. Of course, besides these differences, there are still some, but less important. As for accessibility, the CPC promised to "surrender" in April, and communicators - in July. For alleged price data for the old Europe the following: Pocket LOOX N520 - 350 euro, Pocket LOOX N560 - 450 euro, Pocket LOOX T830 - 800 euro, Pocket LOOX C550 - 400-450 euros. By the way, two younger model line N has already appeared for sale in the stores' computer in the palm. "

Mio Technology Ltd

Company Mio Technology (formerly known MiTAC) presented at the exhibition are two main types of interest to us mobile devices - communicators and navigation devices under a common brand DigiWalker.The most curious devices, of course, can be regarded as GPS smartphone Mio A701 and Mio P550 Navigation PDA and Mio P350. Basing its decision on the popularity of its previous models Mio 168 and Mio 201, the company considers necessary to include a modern 20-channel SiRFstar III GPS module in all of its PDAs.

The same communicator Mio A701

The spectrum consists of only three new products may seem rather modest, but the most important areas covered. The assets have a Mio A701 (PDA + GPS + Bluetooth), P550 (PDA + GPS + WiFi and Bluetooth) and P350 (PDA + GPS). Both the CCP carried out in exactly the same form factor and at the same elemental base. Power 400 MHz CPU is enough to work with navigation software, which in the ground and have to deal with the users of the PDA. An older model Mio P550 is additionally equipped with modules WiFi and Bluetooth, and a standard list of programs will appear to Skype.

Mio P550 - Senior model in the new GPS-line

Mio P350 - the youngest ...

Unlike PDAs, the communicator Mio A701 integrated 520 MHz processor, which is very good, but, apparently, can affect battery life. In addition, to increase the competitiveness of the communicator constructors company decided to equip its 192 MB of internal ROM memory. For a more complete functionality added 1.3 megapixel camera and Bluetooth 1.2 module. All case parts are well executed and tight fitting. Device looks nice, nice buttons are pressed, no apparent problems with the ergonomics are not seen. Overall, the new Mio products fully meet modern requirements, and pricing policy, due to the vast experience of making decent inexpensive PDA, probably will allow its new products to be convenient and reliable solution for navigation and PDA applications. According to the company, the CCP model will be available to the mass market since late April 2006. In Europe, the device is supposed to equip GPS-Map Mio Map, which essentially represents the product of Navigon. In addition to Windows Mobile Pocket PC, Mio company brought to the exhibition a whole bunch of specialized GPS-devices based on Windows CE. NET. Among the new products would like to mention three products. Several non-standard compact navigator Mio H610, uninviting, however, motorists.

Mio H610 - another GPS-conductor, but based on Windows CE. NET

Device Mio 269 + with built-in 2.5 GB hard drive.

Mio 269: navigator with built-in hard drive

As well as having good options and a nice constructive Mio C510E. The latter is equipped with built-in Bluetooth and microphone, through which this browser can be used at the same time as a handsfree, if your phone also supports Bluetooth. Approximate prices in Europe will be (only for devices without maps), about 550 euros for Mio A701, 370 euro for the Mio P550, 270 euros for the Mio P350. Let us hope that in Russia we get the whole range of somewhat lower prices.

Gigabyte

Two interesting new items brought to the exhibition of well-known company in Russia Gigabyte. These are two of the communicator - g-Smart and g-Smart i. Both are designed to work on GSM networks and are equipped with tri-band GSM / GPRS module, both are running Windows Mobile 5 and have 64 MB of RAM and 64 MB of ROM, as well as the Intel PXA272 processor with 416 MHz.

Gigabyte g-Smart

His brother, g-Smart i

The battery capacity of 840 and 920 mAh respectively, as well as high-capacity battery of 1300 mAh. Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, a slot miniSD, 2.1Mp camera. In general, all as usual. And now, please! Both device equipped with a TV tuner to receive analog TV broadcasts in NTSC and PAL, as well as FM-tuner to receive broadcasts. Frankly, the communicator stuck with a television antenna looks to be funny. In general, the dedicated fans of TV, though not entirely domestic, as Our transmission format SECAM theoretically be able to see only in black and white. But really you can listen to the radio at full blast.

Gigabyte g-Smart i with TV antenna

Device (most likely, only g-Smart) will go on sale worldwide in April, pre-announced price will be about $ 800.

E-Ten

The most important and relevant for Russian users novelty company E-Ten, of course, was the navigation communicator E-Ten G500. Unlike many other companies that promise only to soon begin shipping its new products on the market, E-Ten prefers to act as quickly as possible without reference to the traditional fall-spring cycle of output in the light of new devices. At that time, as of this writing, the first delivery of the latest piping-hot with a PDA E-Ten G500 has already come to Moscow! Very unfavorable situation for journalistic work;) I think that lists the parameters E-Ten G500 is redundant. Those who are not in the theme, we recommend you to read our first report from the exhibition - "Communicators and Smartphones CeBIT-2006". My only comment is that this device successfully absorbed all the considerable accumulated by E-Ten experience, and the product turned out decent. Perfectly balanced machine with high-capacity 1440 mAh battery that allows the communicator to work in the PDA mode and 10 hours. Sufficient power and memory. The presence of 1.3-megapixel camera - a moot point, this note and the company's representatives, however, it is. In general, I recommend to pay attention to the E-Ten G500. Moreover, that the sale of its network "computer in the palm has already started. Price - $ 629.

Two main communicator E-Ten - Model M600, and G500

For convenience, we give a summary sign the key features of current models of E-Ten. As promised in the news, we were able to take a short interview with a representative of the company E-Ten.

Workshop: E-Ten M600 as an Internet phone

Now the main advantages of PDAs, and smartphones are becoming wireless capabilities. Mobile device without Bluetooth and has not been listed, and the Wi-Fi, thanks to massive proliferation, rasprobovali many users and manufacturers included in the list of mandatory options, according to the CeBIT exhibition -2006. I must admit I only recently discovered the convenience of the latter type of communication. During a trip to Germany, when working at a local cafe W-Fi Network of initially allowed no problems to book airline tickets, and then, later, to feel the charm of communication on Skype - wonderful program for voice communications over the Internet, which will be discussed below. Practically for nothing I was able to talk to all the relatives from the very center of Berlin, Potsdamer Platc with, so even and added to it a couple of business calls. However, if we talk seriously about the CCP, it seems that their era is gradually taking place and the statistics the share of conventional PDA market has steadily decreased, giving way communicators. Actually, all true. Why carry two devices with me when all you can fit in one? Especially, the technology finally reached a level where this hybrid is more like the size of the phone and not on a laptop with an antenna. However, other abstract reasoning. The theme of this article - the story of yet another embodiment, the use of newly acquired device, about how you can, realizing the maximum possible equipment to stay connected even in places where GSM networks are either not working at all, or the price of roaming assume all reasonable limits. In other words, an alternative method of communication called Skype. As experimental model to test its operation, we chose E-Ten M600, not so long ago made its debut on the Russian market. Why this unit? Communicator E-Ten have been on the market for quite some time, but honestly, something the developers of the company did not develop. Actually, at first all went wrong: was unassuming and the design and technical component. Then, the model P300, with the first sort of understand, but here with the "filling" is still not vytantsovyvalos. In the end, the company somehow managed to mobilize their inner resources and put on the market model M500, which could easily compete with the then market leaders. Our today's hero, M600, - a logical continuation of a series of communicators. NEW preserved classical forms, but added to the list of wireless protocols Wi-Fi. The result had been first on the market communicator in a compact design that supports all wireless communication standards. By the way now, when the Eten M600 is still new competitors, such as Qtek 9100 or Qtek S200, it still remains on winning positions, thanks to the faster 400 MHz processor. Well, what most attracts me to this model in person - a relatively digestible price. Those who are not familiar with this machine, we suggest reading a detailed review of "communicator E-Ten M600, or tuning the model M500", and the rest - follow me. Proceed directly to the installation and use of software for Internet telephony Skype on the E-Ten M600. First a few words for those who have heard about this wonderful softiny only half an ear. Skype - absolutely magical thing that allows you to really save a lot of money. This is a program for the so-called VoIP telephony (voice-over-internet), ie calls worldwide via the Internet. Your voice is transmitted through the channels of the World Wide Web, so that you can call not only on the desktop, but on a regular or mobile phone. Again, as your phone can make and desktop, and, of course, a PDA or smartphone.Skype has appeared a few years ago and has already tight niche of IP-telephony for the PC and more recently to PDAs (Windows Mobile, in the plans - the version for Palm OS), smartphones (MS Smartphone) and PDA (Windows Mobile Phone Edition). Thus, the possibilities this program can make free calls to Skype - PC to PC and very cheap calls from your PC to regular phone. In the end, you only pay for internet traffic, at affordable rates. And the most joyful, that the service operates in Russia. Again, those who wish to learn more about Skype and its services recommended to meet our article «Skype: VoIP on your palm, and extend themselves. Client Skype, as I mentioned, is available for smartphones based on Windows Mobile. You can download it, for example, from the section "Application for Pocket PC" on HPCru - the installer for Windows or directly to your device in the form of CAB-file. In the second case Skype will install automatically, immediately after downloading. Please note that at your disposal, there are two client versions - Skype for WM-devices with fast processors and Skype for devices with slow processors (about 300 MHz). For our E-Ten M600 is suitable version, designed for quick "stones". However, my tests showed no difference between them and the speed of the overall work and sound quality were on top in both variants. However, in the case of the "fast" versions of the feeling that it is less "choked." Now select the connection method that is Internet access. In principle, for Skype suit every relationship: and Bluetooth, and GPRS, and of course, Wi-Fi. The faster the connection, the better the relationship with the caller. Mobile Skype will work even through a connected to a computer cord - only it were online. We tested all three variants of communication, but but really decent voice communication via Skype is possible mainly on wide channel, ie via W-Fi-Connection. At the current rate of development of these networks to find a wireless access point, especially in big cities or overseas, where Skype can be particularly useful, it is not difficult. As to the work of this program through GPRS and Bluetooth, you normally communicate with them using Skype you can only live chat, that is a kind of "ICQ". Of course, if you want you can install and voice communications, but at the moment because of the echo and gurgles quietly talk with someone will not work. But back to the process of installing the program. After installing Skype is registered. At this stage, have to choose a username and password, then you get the main program window.

Ctartovoe Skype window

You can add new subscribers, like in ICQ, only the search is made on behalf of the user.

Main Menu Skype

Search for a Skype

Subscriber added to the list

To select the subscriber's call, press the green button on the screen or choose from the menu "Call".

Choosing from a list of Skype contacts

Call via Skype

Communication took place: call duration - 31 sec

Communication will be just as well as by telephone, no difference in any case, the E-Ten M600, you will not feel. In numerous test calls communicator demonstrated reliable communication without interference, at both ends was fixed normal hearing. Communication using the standard headset that came with the M600, also did not raise any problems. Recall that free can communicate only with the subscriber Skype. If you're going to call a landline or mobile numbers will have to deposit a certain amount of money - 10 dollars or euros, depending on which currency you prefer. This can be done through the website Skype, c desktop - faster and more convenient. Here, however, has its subtleties. Home site of this program for Internet telephony refuses to accept payment with credit cards via the built system. The reason for that, as I have explained, are the Russian IP. Internet cafes in Germany the same payment was "a great success." However, there are workarounds, for example, the site skypeclub.ru offers two payment options. Choose any - and more! Once your account will be virtually "rattled" round sum (it is interesting that less than 10 euro system does not accept), your communications capabilities will be limited only by the available Internet bandwidth. In Skype is an ordinary telephone keypad - the number should be dialed in standard international format with country and city code.For example, putting $ 10 on the bill and talking to all the relatives for a few minutes, and about the same with his superiors, and also made several calls to Germany, I was surprised to find that spent only a half dollar - less than 50 rubles! Agree, tangible savings:)

For calls on Stationary or mobile from Skype have a telephone keypad

Another interesting feature of Skype for Windows Mobile is that it does not necessarily shut down the connection on the same computer to log in from another. Communicating in a chat on the PC, it was interesting to see how the message as if by magic, popping up on screen communicator, peacefully slumbering in the cradle. In general, another small plus sign. By the way, Skype, if you have not noticed, fully translated into Russian and problems with the work of even the most inexperienced should arise. The program interface - very simple and clear, so sign up, choose a sonorous name, and enjoy affordable communications. Another plus is the choice of E-Ten M600 as an IP-phone - a quality Russification as a program MacSentre Pocket RussKey 2003, which can be purchased bundled with the device. Despite the fact that the staffing Communicator comes with a localization of the native operating system Windows Mobile 5.0 from Microsoft, an alternative solution is better in terms of the proposed virtual keyboard - a more thoughtful and comfortable. In general, when a certain cnorovke chatting on the M600 can be quite quickly.

Convenient Virtual Keyboard for E-TEN M600 makes it easy to communicate in Skype-chat

Separately say about Windows Mobile 5.0, which is installed on the device. Positive feedback online about it is not very much, and at first I was skeptical, until such time as not worked on the M600. I do not know what about the conventional PDA, but OSes are very good, "enchanted" by communicators. Management was pleased with two buttons under the screen that allows virtually no stylus, that is, to manipulate the machine with one hand. Also, now do not be afraid, because when running out of power will disappear all the information. The new operating system stores data in a nonvolatile flash-memory. Because of the work with the new memory, "the fifth axis" was slower and it's really there, but ... No more than five minutes after switching to this device with HP iPAQ hx4700. In fact, it turns out that for all the major tasks of capacities E-Ten is enough. Finally I want to say about the pros and cons of the choice of E-Ten M600 as devices for Internet telephony.

Cons:
• low battery life (to put on the machine will charge every night)
• ill-conceived system of charging via a cable (can not charge the E-Ten through the sync cable from the PC + charge can only connect to a cable USB, then there would always take two cords)

Pros:
• compact design
• Support GPRS / Bluetooth / Wi-Fi
• fast processor, providing a normal voice communication through Skype
• reasonable price ($ 629)

The authors, translation:

CeBIT 2006: E-Ten Communicators our all!

The Taiwanese company E-Ten has launched its business in the market of communicators five years ago, turning over this time from a novice to the industry in one of the most notable players. Of course, production and sales volumes E-Ten concedes his compatriot, the competitor - HTC Computers, but its advantage - a course firmly laid on the production of exceptionally communicators based on Windows Mobile and reasonable price policy in the form of affordable mobile devices with a maximum set of features. Year by year, model E-Ten improved, becoming more attractive in terms of design and more stable in terms of work. On the intricacies of the business policy of the company, exclusive features the latest addition to E-Ten G500, as well as plans for the near future President of E-Ten Wayne Ma (Wayne Ma), told the website MSMobiles.com at the exhibition CeBIT-2006. Below we provide the full text of this interesting interview. MsMobiles: I arrive at CeBIT a long time and for the past three to four years, I see your company here. Could you tell us about your experience gained in the development and sales of smartphones? Wayne Ma: Work in this area, we started five years ago. At that time, this area did not take the number of attractive rychnochnyh directions, as many did not believe that a PDA with cellular capabilities tube will gain popularity. We also believe that this combination just need to market and improved technology will reduce the size of the device. Five years ago we realized that this is the right direction and threw it at our research and design resources. We started with simple models to support only dual-band GSM, they were followed by a model with tri-band GSM module with Bluetooth, and then we were able to offer quad-band and with the support of all the possible wireless standards.

About sales scheme

MsMobiles: Unlike you HTC does not sell through the operators. How did you manage to provide the necessary for the survival of sales? Wayne Ma: We work with several operators, but their number is less than the same HTC. The process of obtaining licenses for operators typically takes three months, and the life cycle of communicators are becoming shorter. Currently, he is 9 months. If you spend 3 of them for a license, is only 6 for sale. Therefore, despite the fact that we are ready to cooperate with operators, we mainly use domestic sales channels, brand E-Ten. MsMobiles: I have talked with many companies here in Asia - Hong Kong, China, etc. Seen brought to the exhibition communicators. However, my question about when they will be on sale, I always answered that it depends on when they received orders from operators. I'm glad that you manage to sell their solutions without concluding such deals. Wayne Ma: Our channels are, indeed, allow a large volume of sales in countries where operators do not have much impact on the market.

On the E-Ten G500

MsMobiles: You started to produce communicators with a model P300, then appeared M500, M600, and the last in this series - G500. He is already on sale?

E-Ten M600 and E-Ten G500

Wayne Ma: We started to supply local distributors in many countries in early March, but will take some time before they appear on store shelves. (Last week sale of E-Ten G500 has already started in the chain stores' computer in the palm ".. - Ed.)

On other models

MsMobiles: Could you say something about your current models? What characterizes them? Wayne Ma: Our devices are stable in operation, and to achieve this difficult, especially on the platform of Windows Mobile.While many companies claim that they can make Windows Mobile-devices, they do not have enough experience to make them stable. Firstly, we are releasing the fifth generation of devices and scored considerable experience in this field. Secondly, our communicators have demonstrated the best performance among all models with Windows Mobile 5.0 in performance tests conducted using Spb Benchmark. And at the heart of this success is not so good processor as an excellent team of engineers to debug memory, drivers, etc., with the result that we obtained better than the competition. Third, communicators - this is our main activity, while many others are doing it sporadically. For several years we have been developing our product line and releasing new models. This year, we expect 3.4 innovations. This means that we have enough advanced technology. MsMobiles: How do you determine the level of stability of your PDA? Wayne Ma: Feedback from our customers, working with our devices, they find them more stable than models from other manufacturers.

On the push-technology

MsMobiles: What are your plans for supporting push-technology? Wayne Ma: The technology is already built in compliance with version AKU2.0 (Application Kit Update - operating system service pack for Windows Mobile 5. - Ed.). When we were preparing to release a M600 in the 4 th quarter of 2005, this version was not ready yet. We expect to begin production of the M600 and G500 supports AKU2.2 since April.

A2DP

MsMobiles: Some companies are having problems with the introduction of technology A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile allows you to output stereo audio to compatible car stereo system or protocol Bluetooth), but you could build her support in your communicator. How do you manage it? Wayne Ma: Yes, we could. But to be honest, setting up was quite difficult. As a result, we are not all full screenshot of the output device, however, created a list of compatibility. With the release of AKU2.2 support A2DP will be finalized.

Markets in the U.S. and South America

MsMobiles: M600 and G500 are equipped with quad-band GSM. U.S. is a list of your target markets? Wayne Ma: Yes, it includes support for 850 MHz, we are ready to enter the markets of North and South America, which uses this frequency.

UMTS & EDGE

MsMobiles: Mobile networking new generations of UMTS and EDGE technologies are becoming popular in Europe, there is a demand for a network that supports data transmission. Wayne Ma: Yeah, I think support for EDGE and UMTS - is very important. Sooner or later, perhaps as early as 2007, every device will work in these networks, EDGE or UMTS. Despite the fact that this year the UMTS-devices have appeared, they are expensive and far from the miniature size. And indeed the technology is still imperfect, and therefore not very attractive to the market. MsMobiles: So you are planning to introduce support for UMTS in their devices in 2007? Wayne Ma: Absolutely. MsMobiles: What about EDGE? Wayne Ma: We expect to release a device with EDGE in the third quarter of this year. MsMobiles: EDGE was very popular in the U.S., and last year the standard was commissioned as a number of European operators due to the fact that they can not provide a complete package of services with UMTS. UMTS is gradually transformed in the U.S., a EDGE - Europe. In the case of UMTS operators have invested large sums of money - millions and billions - in the construction and licensing of networks. Therefore, operators need to launch UMTS, to recover the money invested. By the way, your opinion is about the time the burst of popularity in the world of UMTS also shared the company Mio Technology. Wayne Ma: We are closely watching market UMTS-parts, and yet they are not compact, which makes it impossible to create lightweight mobile devices for these networks. But in the second half of 2006, parts become smaller, which will begin production of compact communicators. As for EDGE, it's just a more mature technology, so she appeared on the market before.

On the GPS / TMC

MsMobiles: The G500 integrated receiver GPS. Have you had experience working with GPS to this model? Wayne Ma: We work in close collaboration with RoyalTek, known for its mature technology of production of GPS-receivers. The company is our subsidiary, which makes it possible to produce communicators with GPS.MsMobiles: What distinguishes you from other manufacturers of GPS-devices? Wayne Ma: First of all, we have developed many models of communicators. We moved from the M600 to G500 on the same-developed technology platform, so that all our devices are reliable and stable. Second, we work with RoyalTek, which also has excellent sound technology. And, thirdly, we are the only company that is built into the communicator module GPS with TMC (Traffic Message Channel - technology that allows you to receive information on road conditions. - Ed.), Developed by Destinator and Navigon. MsMobiles: What about the use of alternative navigation systems - ALK CoPilot and TomTom? Wayne Ma: We are in talks with TomTom. However, according to our estimates, Destinator Navigon and run faster.

FM-radio

MsMobiles: Initially, TMC has worked on the waves of FM. Why do FM-receivers are not included? Wayne Ma: On the contrary, the radio is built into our model. MsMobiles: That is, the G500 has FM-radio? Wayne Ma: Yes, the hardware is already included, and accompanying software will be ready next month. MsMobiles: From a marketing standpoint, this is a significant advantage, it is necessary to notify consumers. Wayne Ma: Yes, of course. MsMobiles: In Europe now embedded digital radio and television. Although there is already a standard DAB, FM is still popular, so having the radio on a mobile device - a significant advantage. Wayne Ma: Actually, if you visit our stand at CeBIT, you will also see other our products with DAB receivers, and GPS. MsMobiles: Very good that you include FM radio with support for features RDS (Radio Data System - broadcasting system for transmission to the ultra-short waves, together with an audio signal a small amount of digital information such as weather, currency rates, etc. - approx. ed.). Wayne Ma: Integration of FM-tuner was simple, but as communicators are primarily intended for business people, we're not quite sure whether the radio they have claimed. MsMobiles: Do not forget that every business person is also a personal life:) So this is a serious advantage.

The quality of voice communication

MsMobiles: communicator based on Windows Mobile do not usually give good quality sound. Do you use any means to improve voice communication? Wayne Ma: Yes, every one of our phone needs to undergo a series of certification tests. We have special equipment, which evaluates the quality of sound - very expensive. As far as consumers, have different expectations, it is very difficult to measure and evaluate, as prerequisites are such factors as place of residence, quality of coverage area of ​​cellular network, individual features of conversation, language ... MsMobiles: Yes, exactly, is language. After all, if we carry out tests on the Chinese language, the test results in the case of the English-speaking interlocutors are just sad ...

QWERTY-keyboard

MsMobiles: Most popular devices purchased Blackberry, a well built-in QWERTY-keyboard. Do you plan to support this type of keyboard? Wayne Ma: Yes, we plan to produce communicators equipped with QWERTY keyboards. The authors, translation:

CeBIT 2006: Mobile TV and a little more pleasant novelties

Now, when the main flow of information after the CeBIT 2006 has subsided, you can stop, catch your breath and look back, noting that the dominant themes in the exhibition were held GPS-navigation and mobile digital TV. In our news lately almost every day passes information about the announcement of mobile phones equipped with the so-called DMB-TV. Not far removed from phones and PDAs and svezheanonsirovannye UltraMobile PC (UMPC). The main supplier of news about DMB-devices - the company Samsung Electronics, which provided for the last exhibition, many devices that support DMB. So in this article we describe what is, in fact, DMB, as well as along the recall of curious novelties that have not been mentioned in our resportazhah from the show. Abbreviation DMB stands for Digital Multimedia Broadcasting, is to say digital multimedia broadcasting. For multimedia broadcasting includes both DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting - Digital Audio Broadcasting) technology, which has long been used in many countries, as well as DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting - Digital Video Broadcasting), which started recently and is gaining popularity on mobile devices. If desired, of course, manufacturers machines could begin mass production of devaysov supporting this technology a year or two earlier. This year, however, as you know, held the World Cup and this event is considered by many market players should play into the hands of the popularity of mobile TV. Many fans of this sport are not able to sit at home watching TV (because of work, travel or other reasons), while the mobile phone is now almost everyone. And for the opportunity to watch the matches directly on the cell are very many will be willing to buy a model with the support of DMB, and even the very service. Actually, the first model equipped with a DMB-receiver, appeared in the last year, but the greatest concentration of new products was fixed at CeBIT-2006. Technology, DVB (digital video) today is divided into two main areas - DVB-T and DVB-H. The first focused on television sets with large screen and stationary power, and the second - on mobile devices (phones, PDAs, media players, etc.) with small displays and self-powered. Standard DVB-H, on the one hand, we can assume a direct heir to the standard DVB-T, on the other - an extension of this technology. However, unlike DVB-T, where for the compression of video and audio signals using MPEG 2, DVB-H could be involved is gaining momentum H.264 algorithm, or analogs, organized by the same principle. Compressed data of a flow of IP packets. This allows the use of energy saving algorithm, which is very important for stand-alone devices that operate on battery power. Digital DVB-signal goes from the satellites, of which there are already running multiple pieces. Moreover, the signal reception is possible when driving at high speed, which makes it possible to view TV in the car. For motorists, however, produced specialized systems, but nobody forbids to use in such cases and mobile phone. In addition to marked differences from the DVB-H DVB-T, the standard is implemented a seamless transition from the coverage area of ​​one transmitter to another area. Thus, the border crossing user is not faced with any problems such as signal distortion or interference. Many projects will be organized jointly DVB with mobile operators, which seems quite logical. By early 2006, the world has completed several pilot projects to test the standard DVB-H. It is already known about the existence of finished projects in Germany, Finland, USA, England and, of course, Korea. According to experts, the spread of this standard in the next couple of years it will happen very rapidly. So very soon, the digital mobile TV will be available for residents of North America, Europe and many Asian countries. Of course, over time these joys of life and to reach us. However, more or less intelligible information on this subject yet.As for manufacturers, for them DMB-equipped devices receivers is not a difficult technical challenge. Company Texas Instruments, known for its developments in the field of processors for mobile devices earlier this year introduced the first chips for the reception of the European standard DVB-H (is it will be used in Europe) and ISDB-T (Japanese equivalent will be DVB-H) . The difference between this chip is only in the frequency range: Receiver DTV1000 (DVB-H) supports a range of 470-750 MHz and 1.670-1.675 GHz (L-band), and DTV1001 (ISDB-T) - 470-770 MHz. As you can see, the indices of models differ only by one digit. Of course, for owners of phones with support for DMB service will be provided for a fee. On its size is difficult to say. But at the moment it is difficult to name a high price. With further development of technology, of course, it will be cheaper and it is possible that a few years and will be completely free. On the impending mass of this technology says at least the fact that a dozen booths are not too well-known Taiwanese firms actively demonstrated vserazlichnye solutions to support DVB - from the USB stick to multimediakombaynov. Well, now briefly enumerate some of the most interesting models to support digital television, which were presented at CeBIT 2006. Let's start with an interesting DVB-model presented by iRiver. V10 device can not be attributed with certainty to any category of PDAs or phones to class. Rather, this compact media player, which, among other things, will be equipped with a TV receiver. Novelty has a very compact size - the thickness of the shell is only 10 mm. In this case, the unit boasts a very impressive performance.

iRiver v10 - media player with support for mobile broadcasting

Volume of the player's memory is 4 GB, and thus its main advantage is the 3-inch screen with a resolution of 480x272, which displays 262 thousand colors. In the role of the OS here is Windows CE 5.0. True, the immediate availability of yet unknown, as well as on price. Particularly marked at CeBIT in terms of assorted DMB-making omnivorous Samsung. However, here we talk only about one novelty Korean giant - SPH-M8000. While this device is planned to be released only in Korea but it is quite possible that in future the unit will come on the European market, albeit in slightly modified form. So this model SPH-M8000 is the first communicator Samsung, working in a network WiBro, which is an option gaining momentum standard WiMax (wireless broadband standard). This device runs on Windows Mobile 2003 SE (can later be released update to WM 5.0) and also has a DMB-tuner. A nice addition to the fiche has a TV output that enables you to watch DMB-broadcast on the big screen. M8000 enclosure is made in the slider form factor with a nice lid come. On the sliding part is located QWERTY-keyboard and a display on the upper half of the body - the standard keys. The screen itself has a diagonal of 2.8 inches, resolution - 240 x 320 pixels and displays standard 65536 colors. By design SPH-M8000 is very similar to its predecessor, i730.Of the visible differences can be noted the presence of cameras on the front side of the device, which will be designed for voice and video conferencing. The rear panel is another camera that has a matrix with a resolution of 3.1 megapixels and is designed for photo and video. As the processor uses a high-performance chip, Intel XScale PXA 272 520 MHz, the power which should suffice for all tasks assigned to the M8000. Once Speaking of Samsung, then, as promised, we will tell you about yet another device from this manufacturer, which was not mentioned in our previous articles. It is about Samsung i750. This Windows Mobile-device was showcased at last year's show even CeBIT, but its release was repeatedly postponed, and the latest data is now scheduled for the second half of 2006. It is, of course, about the European release. The model also performed at the slider, but unlike the above SPH-M8000, equipped with no QWERTY-keyboard and a regular digital, like ordinary cell phones. Samsung i750 works in networks GSM 900/1800/1900 MHz with support for GPRS / EDGE, running Windows Mobile 2003 SE and is equipped with 80 MB of memory. Of the curious fichey can distinguish a business card scanner and 2-megapixel camera with auto focus and flash. Of the wireless interfaces declared Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. But price is not reported. As the curtain represent yet another debutant CeBIT - the company Everex, known to connoisseurs for its models based on the products E-Ten. This Taiwanese manufacturer has shown in his stand communicator Neon, which is apparently an updated version of the device Qool Pocket PC from a Singaporean company Qool Labs.

Its specifications are as follows:
• Operating system: Windows Mobile 5.0 Phone Edition
• Processor: Freescale I.MX21 clocked at 350 MHz
• Screen: 2.8 ", resolution - 240 x 320 pixels and the ability to display 262 thousand colors
• Phone: GSM 900/1800/1900 MHz, GPRS
• Wireless Modules: Bluetooth 1.2, Wi-Fi 802.11b and IrDA
• Expandable memory: miniSD slot

The device is equipped with a 1.3 megapixel camera with video recording capability, its dimensions are 109 x 57 x 22 mm, weight - 145 for a set of features and size to compare this device can be with cars on a platform of HTC Magician (Qtek s100, T-Mobile MDA Compact, i-mate JAM). Price and release dates are not announced Neon. At this point we do not end the cycle of materials of updates to CeBIT 2006. In the near future you will find a separate article about the devices on the new mobile platform UMPC with first impressions of working with them. To be continued ... The authors, translation:

Exclusive review of Qtek 8500 Smartphone

The Taiwanese company HTC recently punctually pleases its fans with novelties. However, most devices produce revolutionary difficult to call. HTC prefers to follow the path of evolution, building on the success of models, a well-proven in the market. The main innovation of the last time was the transition to Windows Mobile 5.0, which, however, some tend to look more like a disadvantage, because of certain "wet" the new version. The model number of the company is now represented by two main areas (in terms of most HTC): PDA Phone (PDA with phone module, that is, communicators - type model Qtek S100/110, S200, 2020i, etc.) and Smartphone (smartphones - such as , Qtek 8020, 8200, 83xx). The hero of our review, Qtek 8500, the second group. Qtek 8500 - is not the first smartphone HTC, running Windows Mobile 5.0, and, besides, is not the most outstanding in performance, as we shall see. But still a novelty can be considered as a kind of experiment, HTC, this is the first clamshell in the phone line company. I must say that the flip phone conquered the market relatively recently through the efforts of Asian companies such as Samsung and LG. Prior to this major European phone makers - Nokia, SonyEricsson and Siemens - studiously avoided the subject (apparently wanted to avoid association with Motorola:). But gradually the "clamshell" became popular, and the same Nokia could not ignore this fact has already released quite a decent amount of models in this form factor. HTC also has not yet been able to please their fans some special design delights - all Smartphone models are similar, if not twins, then certainly like brothers. In part, this seems to be the bad influence of Microsoft, which likes things to be uniformly and exactly as she sees fit. But it seems that the ice slowly starts trogatsya (or HTC has dismissed all the old designers and gained new ones), Qtek 8500 but absolutely no resemblance to his "colleagues in the shop."

Qtek 8310 and Qtek 8500

However, as we shall see later, the appearance of otherness in the ground and the only thing, filling the device is quite standard for today and the almost identical model Qtek 8300, which appeared on the market about six months ago. By and large, the difference is only in the absence of a model 8500 integrated Wi-Fi.

Features:
• Operating system: Windows Mobile 5.0 Smartphone Edition
• Processor: Texas Instruments OMAP850 195 MHz
• Memory: 64 MB RAM, 64 or 64 MB flash ROM
• Display: internal 2.2 "transflective TFT, 240x320 pixels, 65,536 colors, an external 1,2" TFT, 128x128 pixels, 65536 colors
• Expandable memory: microSD card
• Wireless Interfaces: Bluetooth 1.2, without the support of EDR, GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, GPRS Class 10, EDGE class B
• Battery: removable Li-Ion Battery 750 mAh
• Audio: microphone, speaker jack for stereo (nestandartnyy!)
• Dimensions (folded) and weight: 98.5 x 58 x 18.2 mm and 99 g

Direct competition with smartphones based on Windows Mobile smartphones can be called the Series 60 line of the Finnish company Nokia (for example, Nokia 3250): the same lack of touch screen and keyboard control.A closer look it becomes quite obvious that the interface of MS Smartphone is done with an eye to the Series 60, and many of the ideas (for example, two control buttons coft with varying depending on the context of the signatures on the screen) just "borrowed" from Nokia. However, that nobody is surprised. It is worth noting that the "borrowed" option is not always as successful as the original. True, the button has nothing to do with it, not too easy to blame the organization of the interface is still not completely adapted for the soft keys. Unfortunately, the testing we got an engineering sample, so the appearance of the box cause we can not. However, a relatively complete set you can say the following. In the box there is a battery, charger, cable for synchronization with your desktop computer, stereo headset (handsfree), pouch, CD with ActiveSync 4.1, user's guide. Qtek 8500 is equipped with a standard for all HTC devices plug miniUSB, and some special, more narrow and long. This is due obviously to the fact that the thickness of the halves of the phone is about 7-8 mm, and miniUSB just do not fit on it. The headset is quite standard for HTC (with the exception again of corporate non-standard connector) - earphones and a microphone with answer button on the call. Charger and sync cable is also very common.

Appearance

Here, finally, we got to the most important thing - the look of Qtek 8500, which immediately attracts the attention of others. Indeed, the phone is somewhat unusual. When your humble servant, risked his life smuggling carries the machine through Russian customs, it has been caught red-handed, and customs for a while with genuine interest attached to the novelties of the telecommunications industry. However, released to the world, gave the phone or even demanded money. Originally planned two options coloring apparatus: black with silver and black with red. Then it was added to a strict all black version, which we consider here. With flip closed attracts the attention of the external display of the phone - a small square in the middle of the display is a mirror of the circle. It looks very stylish. Above the display - the camera lens in a brilliant chrome bezel. At the bottom under the screen - the buttons control music playback (express music buttons, already familiar to some in 8300). Even lower - two small LEDs - display network, battery and operation Bluetooth. Opening the phone, we see an unusual keyboard: flat, hardly protruding above the surface of a button. No joystick, instead of round two keys, one inside the other. In the test sample on the keyboard as if milled three brilliant circle, which gives it a very classy look. Unfortunately, in the final version will be only one - around the navigation keys. From each other by the number keys are separated purely formal, with small notches on the panel keyboard. But the actual buttons are large enough even for large male fingers, so that problems with them, no one should arise. The keyboard backlight - a light blue and dark it looks even more mysterious. In a word, mainstream. In addition, the device is equipped with a light sensor, and the backlight is activated only if you really dark. On each side of the upper part of the apparatus are buttons for volume control, voice dialing / voice recorder and the camera (by the way, the buttons without labels, so I have to remember that where there is). Side on the bottom half - only 12-pin connector for charging cable or headset (one at all). The back side is nothing remarkable - just the battery cover (underneath is also a SIM-card and slot for microSD) and a connector for external antenna under the rubber plug. The workmanship of the phone calls only positive emotions - and to look at, and feel everything is done very soundly, something stylish and into the hands of her brother is very nice, despite the plastic housing. Screen Qtek 8500 - one more reason to be proud. Yes, there ... He's just great! For comparison, I put a number of 8310 and 8500 - the last screen noticeably clearer and brighter, and this despite the fact that the time difference between the yield not so much. Technology does not stand still, and it is gratifying. On the quality of the display screen is very reminiscent of the latest smartphone Qtek S200, only the lower diagonal (2.2 "vs. 2.8") at the same resolution (240x320), so the point is smaller and the picture looks sharper (photo, of course, does not reflect the real picture ). Viewing angles - great for sun screen can be seen, too bad. The brightness is not adjustable, standard for all smartphones. As a device for reading electronic books 8500, probably not the best option - because of screen size and battery life quite modest, and Web pages are viewed - not the most pleasant experience. As for the external screen, it is primarily intended to display performance information such as signal strength, battery, etc. In addition, this screen can be displayed an animated screen saver in the form of hours (to select several types are available) or a background image, date and time, and data music player - the duration of the current track, volume, etc. Now leave aside the enthusiasm for the appearance and close Let us ease of use. And here we are waiting for a slight disappointment: the phone is clearly designed for long fingers. Anyway I could not get normally open it with one hand. Of course, the persistent practice give the effect, but an adequate response that does not work: effectively reject the flip fingers of one hand does not work, we have to use the second hand. That is impressive, with a bang, close the flip - it please:) Keyboard is convenient to use, no complaints there, the keys are arranged well and pressed easily and clearly. But before the buttons located on the upper half shell (flip), fly so far, not every petit ... in the sense dotyanet every finger. Anyway, my this is not possible.Without interception machine I can only press the button on the camera or voice dialing, volume up lacking. If you have long fingers, the situation is not so catastrophic, and you may well manage with one hand.

Processor and memory

In the Qtek 8500 is installed the same CPU as the model S200, 8300 & 8310, - TI OMAP 850, clocked at 195 MHz. Therefore hold benchmarks we do not, moreover, that visual and practical performance is not much different from those vehicles. In the test device - 64 MB of RAM (of which programs are available for approximately 26 MB) and 64 MB flash memory (of which about 13 MB available for storage). In the Qtek 8500 is used slot standard microSD, which, in general, it is logical, given the small size of the device. Located as it is extremely uncomfortable - a SIM-card, so about "hot-swappable cards can be immediately forgotten. Alas, the beauty demands victims. With the volumes, however, there are no problems - the microSD card is now available up to 1 GB, so the problem of replacement cards should not be particularly relevant: a card more - and all the cases.

The sound quality and voice recorder

Speaker at the Qtek 8500, despite the small size of the device, very loud - do not miss a call with a warranty, in addition, there is a vibrating alert. Internal speaker is also pleased capacity - at full volume the phone to your ear, even applying is not necessary, everything is audible. Using the standard stereo audibility is also at altitude. Voice Recorder also works well, but the special quality, especially in a crowded place, do not expect from him - the noise obtained fairly decent, even indoors.

Wireless capabilities

In terms of wireless Qtek 8500 is not an extraordinary machine: there are quite standard by today's GSM / GPRS / EDGE and Bluetooth 1.2. The quality of connection and the speed with GPRS / EDGE no claims arose - everything is functioning very well. However, the voice of your devices HTC has no direct relationship - all the radio-filling has been developed by Texas Instruments and is licensed by the manufacturer. With regard to support Bluetooth, then here we have good news for audiophiles: Qtek 8500 works with the profile A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile). Thus, you can listen to music in stereo through a Bluetooth-headset.

Otherwise, the following profiles are supported:
• Generic Access profile
• Serial Port profile
• Headset profile
• Object Push profile
• DUN profile
• Hands-free profile
• Generic Object Exchange
• Human Interface Device
• Advance Audio Distribution
• Audio / Video Remote control

As we mentioned above, another wireless standard, Wi-Fi, our hero, unlike his fellow series 83hh not support them. However, with such a battery is not surprising. Infrared port on the device either, but it is now rather an anachronism, since it generally dominates Bluetooth. All wireless functions, the user can operate through the now familiar application Comm Manager. By the way, pay attention to the middle button c "3" in the left column Qtek 8500. This key controls the function of Microsoft Direct Push, which appeared in Windows Mobile 5, version AKU2 (it's something like Serivce Pack 2 for Windows Mobile). Now, if your company uses a mail server is Microsoft Exchange, you can enjoy the benefits of the new service Push Mail. All that is required - this is GPRS-connection, and no additional settings. When using the Push Mail client e-mail program does not need to constantly check e-mail - the mail server itself loads a letter to your mobile phone as they arrive.The process itself is simple enough: through ActiveSync installed HTTPS-connection that the server and sends the data directly on the Qtek 8500. In practice, it works quickly and without problems:)

Luggage

Qtek 8500 camera is equipped with a standard resolution for today - 1,3 Mp. In general, it shows pictures of pretty average quality, when compared with the 2 megapixel camera Qtek S200. Settings include: self-timer, zoom, white balance, resolution and image quality, a place to store photos (internal memory or card), the availability date and time the picture, shooting mode (photo, video, MMS-photo or video for "Contacts" , the picture for the theme and the sports mode), effects (black and white photography, sepia, cool colors). There is a camera Qtek 8500 is another interesting option, intended, apparently, to shoot a TV screen or monitor - sync on a frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz to avoid flicker. Examples of photos taken by camera Qtek 8500, will be available later.

Runtime

Despite the rather modest battery (750 mAh), HTC promises 2,5-5 hours of talk time and 100-150 hours of standby time. Subjective sensations (on the exact measurements simply do not have the time), it's about the truth. Anyway, the ever-active GPRS-connection and enabled Direct Push, when batch of letters (more than 10 per day) from the server and performing a small number of calls, the phone worked for a little over two days on one battery charge. It seems that when using Bluetooth and listening to music this time will be reduced to about one day, and sometimes less.

Software

Software stuffing Qtek 8500 also absolutely standard for smarftonov based on Windows Mobile 5.0 Smartphone Edition: browser Internet Explorer, ActiveSync, PIM-application (Tasks, Calendar, Contacts), e-mail client, Windows Media Player, File Manager, software for working with photo- and a video camera. In addition, the device pre-installed package of ClearVue Suite, allowing you to view documents in PDF, MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint. If vac interested in the details of a selection of software and recommended programs to be installed on the device, you should look into the relevant chapter of the review of Qtek 8310. Qtek 8500 will be delivered to Russia with the Russian version of ROM. The quality of translation at the time gave rise to violent criticism of Microsoft, and as far as we know, the software giant, finally responded to her by hiring professional translators edit all found flaws. True, this applies only to applications written in Microsoft. Their own applications on HTC Russified independently, so that sometimes turns out pretty funny. For example, instead of the usual over the "Connections" we offer a "connection", or instead of "View status" - "view state":)

Term of appearance and price

According to available data, the starting price Qtek 8500 costavit about $ $ 500-600. In the Russian retail novelty appears around the end of May.

Conclusions

It seems that a rough idea about the Qtek 8500 you already have happened in spite of our cursory acquaintance with him. Therefore to sum up a little. So, Qtek 8500, primarily a fashion device. If you want a smart phone, as stuffed with all sorts of "twists" with the latest technology, this option is not for you. But if you - a music lover, a connoisseur of stylish clever gizmos, albeit at the expense of functionality, this new product is clearly to your taste. Also, recall that at your disposal will always be Windows Mobile co all available parks for smartphones - from assorted Organizer to programs for reading, watching videos, as well as a variety of toys.

Cons:
• low battery life
• non-standard connectors for the headset and charging / synchronization
• no radio (with a pronounced musical direction smartphone)
• inconveniently located slot for expansion cards (under the SIM-card) and some buttons (camera, voice recorder, volume)

Pros:
• cverhkompaktnye size and weight
• spectacular design - one of the first clamshell phone running Windows Mobile
• gorgeous screen
• stylish and comfortable keyboard
• external buttons for the player

PS Photos Qtek 8500 can also be found here. The authors, translation: