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In Depth: The 10 biggest gadget letdowns of 2011
By TechRadar, published 20-12-2011
10 gadget letdowns of 2011You know all about the best gadgets of 2011. You probably own quite a few of them, and you'll still be paying for them well into 2013. But what about the numerous duffers? What about the products that promised a revolution, talked the talk, appearing looking exciting in advert breaks during the football, but in the end only delivered a whimpering lump of nothing good only for your friendly local landfill site?We like to be inclusive here at TechRadar, so here are the losers of 2011. The biggest letdowns in tech of the last 12 months, the products that ought to be recalled not for safety purposes, but to preserve the reputations of the manufacturers involved. If you get any of these for Christmas, it's a signal that not only does Santa Claus not exist, but also the...
In Depth: Is Android Google's Achilles heel?
By TechRadar, published 18-12-2011
Patent wars and app store woesJust four years ago, the Open Handset Alliance, headed up by Google, released Android, the open source mobile operating system for smartphones (and later tablets).The first Google phone was the T-Mobile G1. Since then Android has enjoyed a meteoric rise, gaining popularity in the smartphone market much faster than even Apple's iOS did on its debut. However, that rapid increase in market share isn't the full story. There are big problems behind the scenes – problems that could turn Android into a poisoned chalice for Google. The cost of free First there are the patent wars, which may help its competitors squeeze Android off smartphones and tablets. Major companies like Microsoft, Oracle and Apple are claiming patent disputes against the manufacturers of devic...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 17-12-2011
This week we've a bumper selection of reviews for you, including Sony's new Alpha a65 SLT camera and a hands on review with LG's new Prada phone. For those looking to get started with photography, the Canon Powershot AS40 HS is a fantastic, fuss-free choice.And there's plenty more besides - read on to see all this week's reviews. Sony Alpha a65 reviewSony's online shop price for the A65 stands at £789 (body only) or £869 (with 18-55mm lens). This places the A65 in the same arena as mid-entry-level DSLRs like the Canon EOS 600D and Nikon D5100 – albeit at a higher price-point that's justified by its raft of high-end features. In essence, the A65 attracts largely the same points of praise and criticism as the more expensive A77, due to the fact that it shares much of the same technology ...
Dell ditches netbooks, says 'thin and powerful is where it's at'
By TechRadar, published 16-12-2011
Netbooks have had their day and now the end is nigh as Dell admits it is no longer making the diminutive computers. Eagle-eyed netbook watchers recently spotted that the company is no longer selling its Inspiron Mini netbooks online, and a Dell spokesperson has since confirmed that the company is dropping out of the netbook race. "Thin and powerful is where it is at for us," Dell's marketing director Alison Gardner told The Verge. Sounds familarThin and powerful – sounds like Ultrabooks to us, although good on Dell for avoiding Intel's branding there. Dell's more about the XPS 14z and its ilk these days, and we're hoping to see more of the same from the company launching at CES 2012. Let's hope the company can slim the range down just a little bit more though; it's not quite at M...
Review: Philips 42PFL7666H
By TechRadar, published 16-12-2011
OverviewPhillips has taken its sweet time in delivering its 2011 line-up of LED TVs, but this 7000 Series screen was worth the wait. Sticking to the brushed aluminium look that has served the brand well in the last few years, this 42-inch Edge LED TV screen's headline act is Easy 3D.It's perhaps the best, simplest name yet for the passive 3D system (LG calls in Cinema 3D), although we're slightly confused as to why Phillips has chosen it over active shutter 3D for the 42PFL7666. It's a company obsessed with picture quality, debuting all manner of new processing goodies every year, so why opt for this less detailed, and often less impressive, flavour of 3D?The obvious answer is that the use of passive 3D technology means Phillips can include multiple pairs of the much cheaper 3D glasses in ...
In Depth: TechRadar's best gear of 2011
By TechRadar, published 16-12-2011
TechRadar's best gear of 2011Every year, we review hundreds of bits of hardware here at TechRadar, and every year the standard gets better and better. The phones get more advanced, the PCs get faster and the TVs get a picture quality we never though possible.Of course, it can be hard to follow all those reviews, especially when some products get so much hype, but turn out to be disappointing.Well, we say the best kit always rises to the top, and the list below is definitely the cream of the crop. Our experts selected the products that stood out far above the rest, either because of having top features, excellent quality, a bargain price or all of the above, so you can be sure that this is the best kit of 2011.Best LCD TV: Philips 46PFL9706HThis Philips set wins out for one very good reason...
Updated: 50 best free Android apps
By TechRadar, published 15-12-2011
Best free Android apps: 1-25OK, so the Android Market is more akin to Lidl or Asda than the iPhone's enormous, indulgent Selfridges-at-Christmas time approach, but the open source nature of Google's OS means there are plenty of apps for Android to be found.Most of the good stuff on Android is free, thanks to the work of developers who do it for love alone. So here's our pick of the top free Android apps you should install.And you can find more great apps at Top 150 best Android apps. Also why not check out our video of the top 10 free Android games?brightcove : 9719988620011. SeesmicThere are many Twitter apps on Android - and Twitter itself shook up the scene with the launch of its own-brand app recently - but we're sticking with Seesmic. Offering support for multiple accounts, a home pag...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 12-03-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've looked at Sony's new dual-screened Tablet P - it's a clamshell Android tablet that's seriously different from anything else on the market. Read on for what we made of it. Then we've got our definitive verdict on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, plus the super speedy Intel Core i7 2700K processor and the entry-level Nikon D3100 DSLR. Plus there's plenty more besides - read on to see all of this week's reviews. Sony Tablet P reviewThe Android tablet is diversifying by the day, and here's one that… folds in half. Yep, the Sony Tablet P has dual screens and folds closed into something resembling a large glasses case. The slick lines and thin body of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and even the Sony Tablet S are nowhere to be seen, this is a device a...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 12-03-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've looked at Sony's new dual-screened Tablet P - it's a clamshell Android tablet that's seriously different from anything else on the market. Read on for what we made of it. Then we've got our definitive verdict on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, plus the super speedy Intel Core i7 2700K processor and the entry-level Nikon D3100 DSLR. Plus there's plenty more besides - read on to see all of this week's reviews. Sony Tablet P reviewThe Android tablet is diversifying by the day, and here's one that… folds in half. Yep, the Sony Tablet P has dual screens and folds closed into something resembling a large glasses case. The slick lines and thin body of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and even the Sony Tablet S are nowhere to be seen, this is a device a...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 12-03-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've looked at Sony's new dual-screened Tablet P - it's a clamshell Android tablet that's seriously different from anything else on the market. Read on for what we made of it. Then we've got our definitive verdict on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, plus the super speedy Intel Core i7 2700K processor and the entry-level Nikon D3100 DSLR. Plus there's plenty more besides - read on to see all of this week's reviews. Sony Tablet P reviewThe Android tablet is diversifying by the day, and here's one that… folds in half. Yep, the Sony Tablet P has dual screens and folds closed into something resembling a large glasses case. The slick lines and thin body of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and even the Sony Tablet S are nowhere to be seen, this is a device a...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 12-03-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've looked at Sony's new dual-screened Tablet P - it's a clamshell Android tablet that's seriously different from anything else on the market. Read on for what we made of it. Then we've got our definitive verdict on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, plus the super speedy Intel Core i7 2700K processor and the entry-level Nikon D3100 DSLR. Plus there's plenty more besides - read on to see all of this week's reviews. Sony Tablet P reviewThe Android tablet is diversifying by the day, and here's one that… folds in half. Yep, the Sony Tablet P has dual screens and folds closed into something resembling a large glasses case. The slick lines and thin body of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and even the Sony Tablet S are nowhere to be seen, this is a device a...
Review: Samsung NS310
By TechRadar, published 12-02-2011
Although the Samsung NS310 is better looking than its sibling, the NC110, the build quality and usability aren't quite as good. When looking at netbooks we rate battery life as one of the most important features and, unfortunately, the NS310 isn't up to scratch here, either. These niggles are a shame because the machine itself looks fantastic. However we'd have to recommend giving this handsome devil a swerve in favour of the plainer NC110. From the outside, the clamshell-like design is a real head-turner. The bright colour scheme also looks fantastic. Our review unit was a rich azure blue, but if that's not to your taste the NS310 is also available in other striking colours. Opening up the netbook reveals a completely black interior with a thick bezel around the screen. Because of the cur...
Review: Samsung NS310
By TechRadar, published 12-02-2011
Although the Samsung NS310 is better looking than its sibling, the NC110, the build quality and usability aren't quite as good. When looking at netbooks we rate battery life as one of the most important features and, unfortunately, the NS310 isn't up to scratch here, either. These niggles are a shame because the machine itself looks fantastic. However we'd have to recommend giving this handsome devil a swerve in favour of the plainer NC110. From the outside, the clamshell-like design is a real head-turner. The bright colour scheme also looks fantastic. Our review unit was a rich azure blue, but if that's not to your taste the NS310 is also available in other striking colours. Opening up the netbook reveals a completely black interior with a thick bezel around the screen. Because of the cur...
Review: Samsung NS310
By TechRadar, published 12-02-2011
Although the Samsung NS310 is better looking than its sibling, the NC110, the build quality and usability aren't quite as good. When looking at netbooks we rate battery life as one of the most important features and, unfortunately, the NS310 isn't up to scratch here, either. These niggles are a shame because the machine itself looks fantastic. However we'd have to recommend giving this handsome devil a swerve in favour of the plainer NC110. From the outside, the clamshell-like design is a real head-turner. The bright colour scheme also looks fantastic. Our review unit was a rich azure blue, but if that's not to your taste the NS310 is also available in other striking colours. Opening up the netbook reveals a completely black interior with a thick bezel around the screen. Because of the cur...
In Depth: The BBC Micro at 30: a very British institution
By TechRadar, published 12-01-2011
The BBC Micro at 30The clickety-clack keys, The Cub touchscreen monitor. The terrible beige chassis. That row of bright orange function keys at the top of the keyboard. The BBC Micro turns 30 years old today. It was a pionnering machine - not least because you use a descendent of it every single day - your mobile phone.So how did the BBC come to be involved in such a project? And how did the BBC Micro come to have such influence over a generation?Let's rewind slightly. In 1975, a now defunct company called MOS Technology introduced the 6502 processor.Technically, it was nothing special – an 8-bit chip designed by the team responsible for the Motorola 6800, and similar to it in many ways. Where it broke new ground was in its cost. With a launch price of $25, considerably less than equival...
In Depth: The BBC Micro at 30: a very British institution
By TechRadar, published 12-01-2011
The BBC Micro at 30The clickety-clack keys, The Cub touchscreen monitor. The terrible beige chassis. That row of bright orange function keys at the top of the keyboard. The BBC Micro turns 30 years old today. It was a pionnering machine - not least because you use a descendent of it every single day - your mobile phone.So how did the BBC come to be involved in such a project? And how did the BBC Micro come to have such influence over a generation?Let's rewind slightly. In 1975, a now defunct company called MOS Technology introduced the 6502 processor.Technically, it was nothing special – an 8-bit chip designed by the team responsible for the Motorola 6800, and similar to it in many ways. Where it broke new ground was in its cost. With a launch price of $25, considerably less than equival...
Apple's Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 ban overturned in Oz
By TechRadar, published 30-11-2011
Chalk one up for Samsung in the great patent rumble of 2011; the company has had Apple's sales ban on the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 overturned in Australia. Federal Court Justice Lindsay Foster has reversed the sales ban, as was predicted late last week, although it's still in place until Friday this week. Apple could (and, most likely, will) go to the High Court to have the sales ban extended beyond Friday, although Samsung is gearing up to have the 10.1-inch tablet in Australia's shops on Saturday.In a Galaxy far far awayIt's excellent timing for Samsung, which will be able to take advantage of the Christmas shopping season Down Under, rather than missing out on the country's cash. Cue the soft focus and cries of "It's a Christmas miracle!" from the crowds. "We believe the ruli...
Apple's Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 ban overturned in Oz
By TechRadar, published 30-11-2011
Chalk one up for Samsung in the great patent rumble of 2011; the company has had Apple's sales ban on the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 overturned in Australia. Federal Court Justice Lindsay Foster has reversed the sales ban, as was predicted late last week, although it's still in place until Friday this week. Apple could (and, most likely, will) go to the High Court to have the sales ban extended beyond Friday, although Samsung is gearing up to have the 10.1-inch tablet in Australia's shops on Saturday.In a Galaxy far far awayIt's excellent timing for Samsung, which will be able to take advantage of the Christmas shopping season Down Under, rather than missing out on the country's cash. Cue the soft focus and cries of "It's a Christmas miracle!" from the crowds. "We believe the ruli...
Review: ViewSonic ViewPad 7e
By TechRadar, published 29-11-2011
Overview At £150, the ViewSonic ViewPad 7e is a low-priced 7-inch Android 2.3 tablet that some might find appealing if only for the flexibility it affords. Similar to the BlackBerry PlayBook in size, with a passing nod to the upcoming (but still not available in the UK) Amazon Kindle Fire, the ViewPad 7e is not nearly as user-friendly. Some apps, including those from Google, are noticeably not available. At the same time, by offering only the basic smartphone version of Android without many extra frills, the basic mechanics of a tablet are all here: touchscreen display, Android apps, movie playback and ebooks. The ViewSonic ViewPad 7e is certainly better than the clunky, confusing ViewPad 10Pro. Available only in white, the ViewSonic ViewPad 7e is comfortable to hold in one hand. At 450g,...
Review: ViewSonic ViewPad 7e
By TechRadar, published 29-11-2011
Overview At £150, the ViewSonic ViewPad 7e is a low-priced 7-inch Android 2.3 tablet that some might find appealing if only for the flexibility it affords. Similar to the BlackBerry PlayBook in size, with a passing nod to the upcoming (but still not available in the UK) Amazon Kindle Fire, the ViewPad 7e is not nearly as user-friendly. Some apps, including those from Google, are noticeably not available. At the same time, by offering only the basic smartphone version of Android without many extra frills, the basic mechanics of a tablet are all here: touchscreen display, Android apps, movie playback and ebooks. The ViewSonic ViewPad 7e is certainly better than the clunky, confusing ViewPad 10Pro. Available only in white, the ViewSonic ViewPad 7e is comfortable to hold in one hand. At 450g,...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 26-11-2011
This week we've reviewed Google's new Galaxy Nexus - the first Android 4.0 handset as well as the new, souped up Apple MacBook Pro.We've also checked out a brand new 46-inch LCD from Philips as well as Sony's whacky personal 3D viewer. Read on for all the reviews posted on TechRadar this week. Philips 46PFL9706H reviewThe Philips 46PFL469706H is a milestone in TV design. Picture quality on an LCD TV was simply not possible until now, and it's all made possible by the new 'moth eye' filter. It uses tiny nodules to mimic similar structures found on moth's eyes and is used to eliminate reflections on the screen, resulting in a greatly enhanced perceived contrast range. You have to see it to truly believe it, but it takes this TV from being a great contender to a market leader. There are a few...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 26-11-2011
This week we've reviewed Google's new Galaxy Nexus - the first Android 4.0 handset as well as the new, souped up Apple MacBook Pro.We've also checked out a brand new 46-inch LCD from Philips as well as Sony's whacky personal 3D viewer. Read on for all the reviews posted on TechRadar this week. Philips 46PFL9706H reviewThe Philips 46PFL469706H is a milestone in TV design. Picture quality on an LCD TV was simply not possible until now, and it's all made possible by the new 'moth eye' filter. It uses tiny nodules to mimic similar structures found on moth's eyes and is used to eliminate reflections on the screen, resulting in a greatly enhanced perceived contrast range. You have to see it to truly believe it, but it takes this TV from being a great contender to a market leader. There are a few...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 26-11-2011
This week we've reviewed Google's new Galaxy Nexus - the first Android 4.0 handset as well as the new, souped up Apple MacBook Pro.We've also checked out a brand new 46-inch LCD from Philips as well as Sony's whacky personal 3D viewer. Read on for all the reviews posted on TechRadar this week. Philips 46PFL9706H reviewThe Philips 46PFL469706H is a milestone in TV design. Picture quality on an LCD TV was simply not possible until now, and it's all made possible by the new 'moth eye' filter. It uses tiny nodules to mimic similar structures found on moth's eyes and is used to eliminate reflections on the screen, resulting in a greatly enhanced perceived contrast range. You have to see it to truly believe it, but it takes this TV from being a great contender to a market leader. There are a few...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 26-11-2011
This week we've reviewed Google's new Galaxy Nexus - the first Android 4.0 handset as well as the new, souped up Apple MacBook Pro.We've also checked out a brand new 46-inch LCD from Philips as well as Sony's whacky personal 3D viewer. Read on for all the reviews posted on TechRadar this week. Philips 46PFL9706H reviewThe Philips 46PFL469706H is a milestone in TV design. Picture quality on an LCD TV was simply not possible until now, and it's all made possible by the new 'moth eye' filter. It uses tiny nodules to mimic similar structures found on moth's eyes and is used to eliminate reflections on the screen, resulting in a greatly enhanced perceived contrast range. You have to see it to truly believe it, but it takes this TV from being a great contender to a market leader. There are a few...
Samsung may quit netbook market in 2012
By TechRadar, published 25-11-2011
A stray email purporting to be from Samsung suggests that the company may be putting an end to its production of netbooks next year. The email specifically namechecks 10.1-inch devices, saying that the range will be replaced by ultraportables and 'Ultrabooks', the PC equivalent to the MacBook Air. The email, sent to the company's trade partner, reads: "Following the introduction of our new strategy in Q1 2012, we stop the product range in 10.1" (Netbook) in Q1 2012 for the benefit of Ultraportables products (11.6 and 12-inches) and ultrabooks to be launched in 2012."Bookless netsIt's been a tough time for netbooks; first tablets came along and usurped them, then Acer thought about ditching them (although it claims it is not) and now this. But it's no surprise that the Intel-ins...
Samsung may quit netbook market in 2012
By TechRadar, published 25-11-2011
A stray email purporting to be from Samsung suggests that the company may be putting an end to its production of netbooks next year. The email specifically namechecks 10.1-inch devices, saying that the range will be replaced by ultraportables and 'Ultrabooks', the PC equivalent to the MacBook Air. The email, sent to the company's trade partner, reads: "Following the introduction of our new strategy in Q1 2012, we stop the product range in 10.1" (Netbook) in Q1 2012 for the benefit of Ultraportables products (11.6 and 12-inches) and ultrabooks to be launched in 2012."Bookless netsIt's been a tough time for netbooks; first tablets came along and usurped them, then Acer thought about ditching them (although it claims it is not) and now this. But it's no surprise that the Intel-ins...
Samsung may quit netbook market in 2012
By TechRadar, published 25-11-2011
A stray email purporting to be from Samsung suggests that the company may be putting an end to its production of netbooks next year. The email specifically namechecks 10.1-inch devices, saying that the range will be replaced by ultraportables and 'Ultrabooks', the PC equivalent to the MacBook Air. The email, sent to the company's trade partner, reads: "Following the introduction of our new strategy in Q1 2012, we stop the product range in 10.1" (Netbook) in Q1 2012 for the benefit of Ultraportables products (11.6 and 12-inches) and ultrabooks to be launched in 2012."Bookless netsIt's been a tough time for netbooks; first tablets came along and usurped them, then Acer thought about ditching them (although it claims it is not) and now this. But it's no surprise that the Intel-ins...
Samsung may quit netbook market in 2012
By TechRadar, published 25-11-2011
A stray email purporting to be from Samsung suggests that the company may be putting an end to its production of netbooks next year. The email specifically namechecks 10.1-inch devices, saying that the range will be replaced by ultraportables and 'Ultrabooks', the PC equivalent to the MacBook Air. The email, sent to the company's trade partner, reads: "Following the introduction of our new strategy in Q1 2012, we stop the product range in 10.1" (Netbook) in Q1 2012 for the benefit of Ultraportables products (11.6 and 12-inches) and ultrabooks to be launched in 2012."Bookless netsIt's been a tough time for netbooks; first tablets came along and usurped them, then Acer thought about ditching them (although it claims it is not) and now this. But it's no surprise that the Intel-ins...
Updated: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 21-11-2011
iPad 3 rumoured release date and processorThe iPad 2 has been out since the Spring. So now it's time to move the rumour factory onto iPad 3.We've gathered together details on its possible specifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?brightcove : 1065669898001iPad 3 release dateOn 1 July, Digitimes reported that Taiwanese-based component suppliers were gearing up for production of iPad 3. In October 2011 it was later reported that production would certainly start before the end of the year.However, during August, a rumour broke that Apple was set to delay the launch of the iPad 3, due to a shortage of retina dis...
Google using Chrome browser to flog Chromebooks
By TechRadar, published 21-11-2011
Google has started to use its popular Chrome browser to try to sell Chromebooks for the Christmas period. The simple adverts have been showing up at the top of the Google Chrome homepage as Google tries to push the Chrome OS-fuelled notebooks. Currently only Acer and Samsung have made Chromebooks, with the latter far and away the dominant manufacturer. SimplicityAlthough the notebooks have won praise for simplicity and the speed in which a user can be up and running, the offline features remain a major sticking point as TechRadar's Samsung Chromebook review suggests. A pop-up shop in a PC World and Currys superstore in London's Tottenham Court Road garnered a nice bit of publicity, but Chromebooks cannot be accused of being over-hyped since their launch. In truth, as offline functionality ...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 19-11-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've reviewed the humungous HTC Sensation XL as well as the long awaited Amazon Kindle Fire. And it doesn't stop there - we've looked at the new Sony Alpha A77 DSLR, complete with an immense 24.3MP APS-C format CMOS sensor.We've also checked out the 11-inch Acer Zenbook UX21 too. Read on for all our reviews from what's been a bumper week on the site. HTC Sensation XL reviewThe HTC Sensation XL is the third in HTC's new Android range, and offers a larger screen than the original Sensation, but with a 1.5GHz single-core processor, 16GB of built-in memory, and Beats Audio (like the XE). However, despite the screen being larger it's actually a lot less sharp - what we've got here is a 480 x 800 display, compared to the 540 x 960 qHD screen in ...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 19-11-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've reviewed the humungous HTC Sensation XL as well as the long awaited Amazon Kindle Fire. And it doesn't stop there - we've looked at the new Sony Alpha A77 DSLR, complete with an immense 24.3MP APS-C format CMOS sensor.We've also checked out the 11-inch Acer Zenbook UX21 too. Read on for all our reviews from what's been a bumper week on the site. HTC Sensation XL reviewThe HTC Sensation XL is the third in HTC's new Android range, and offers a larger screen than the original Sensation, but with a 1.5GHz single-core processor, 16GB of built-in memory, and Beats Audio (like the XE). However, despite the screen being larger it's actually a lot less sharp - what we've got here is a 480 x 800 display, compared to the 540 x 960 qHD screen in ...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 19-11-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've reviewed the humungous HTC Sensation XL as well as the long awaited Amazon Kindle Fire. And it doesn't stop there - we've looked at the new Sony Alpha A77 DSLR, complete with an immense 24.3MP APS-C format CMOS sensor.We've also checked out the 11-inch Acer Zenbook UX21 too. Read on for all our reviews from what's been a bumper week on the site. HTC Sensation XL reviewThe HTC Sensation XL is the third in HTC's new Android range, and offers a larger screen than the original Sensation, but with a 1.5GHz single-core processor, 16GB of built-in memory, and Beats Audio (like the XE). However, despite the screen being larger it's actually a lot less sharp - what we've got here is a 480 x 800 display, compared to the 540 x 960 qHD screen in ...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 19-11-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week we've reviewed the humungous HTC Sensation XL as well as the long awaited Amazon Kindle Fire. And it doesn't stop there - we've looked at the new Sony Alpha A77 DSLR, complete with an immense 24.3MP APS-C format CMOS sensor.We've also checked out the 11-inch Acer Zenbook UX21 too. Read on for all our reviews from what's been a bumper week on the site. HTC Sensation XL reviewThe HTC Sensation XL is the third in HTC's new Android range, and offers a larger screen than the original Sensation, but with a 1.5GHz single-core processor, 16GB of built-in memory, and Beats Audio (like the XE). However, despite the screen being larger it's actually a lot less sharp - what we've got here is a 480 x 800 display, compared to the 540 x 960 qHD screen in ...
Buying Guide: Best printer 2011: 15 top inkjet and laser printers
By TechRadar, published 16-11-2011
Best printer: best inkjet printersWhat's the best printer to buy? All-purpose printers are a booming market, and you're spoilt for choice, so here's our pick of the best printers on the market right now. In choosing the best printer your first decision is whether to go for a standard printer, or a multi-function device which includes a scanner and which can also work as a standalone copier. These aren't much larger than regular printers, but they're a whole lot more versatile, especially when you need to keep a copy of a letter, a bill or any other important document, so our first list includes the best inkjet printers and best multi-function devices. You should also think carefully about whether to invest in an inkjet or a laser. Lasers are usually associated with office environments, wh...
Updated: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 14-11-2011
iPad 3 rumoured release date and processorThe iPad 2 has been out since the Spring. So now it's time tomove the rumour factory onto iPad 3.We've gathered together details on its possiblespecifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?brightcove : 1065669898001iPad 3 release dateAlthough numerous sources such as Reuters reported that the new iPad 3 is due in the fourth quarter of 2011, the signs are it will be early in 2012.On 1 July, Digitimes reported that Taiwanese-based component suppliers were gearing up for production of iPad 3. In October 2011 it was later reported that production would certainly start befor...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 11-12-2011
This week we got our hands on Nokia's first Windows handset, the Lumia 800, and in the camera world, we spend some time testing the new Canon S100 and the Pentax Q.We also enjoyed the Beats Audio equipped HP DV7-6103ea laptop, while the £99 Huawei Blaze Android phone left us less impressed.Read on for this week's top reviews on TechRadar…Nokia Lumia 800 reviewThe Nokia Lumia 800 shares its exterior styling with the previously substantially less hyped Nokia N9, a Meego-based smartphone, although the screen size is reduced from 3.9-inch to 3.7-inch to conform to the Windows Phone spec list. The CPU increases from the 1GHz ARM Cortex-A8 to the 1.4GHz MSM8255 Snapdragon/Scorpion which certainly helps add snap to the Windows Phone Mango OS. One thing's for certain: this is the best Nokia sma...
Buying Guide: 13 best Android tablets in the world
By TechRadar, published 11-11-2011
13 best Android tabletsOur list of the best Android tablets in the world - regularly updatedIf you're looking for a tablet and don't fancy an iPad, then Android is currently the way to go. (Don't know what an Android tablet is? Check out: what is an Android tablet?)There are other options out there; Windows 7 tablets are available, the BlackBerry PlayBook is on sale now and the HP TouchPad has come and gone in a flurry of £99 panic-buying. But Android 3.2 is currently the main OS rival to the iPad, and the products are creeping onto the shelves one by one.Follow our tablets channel: @TR_TabletsWe've gone from zero Android tablets to stacks of the things in a very short space of time, and inevitably some are better than others.Some have ten-inch screens, others seven, and there are big dif...
Review: Samsung Galaxy Note
By TechRadar, published 11-11-2011
Overview, Design and Feel.Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Neither. It's a tablet. Or a phone. Or both. We really don't know – but it has some of the best specs around and Samsung's hoping this will ship by the bucketload.The Samsung Galaxy Note is a phone / tablet hybrid that doesn't really sit in any category - we've reviewed it as a smartphone simply due to the fact it can make calls, but Samsung is definitely trying to create a new category of device with this 5.3-inch screened behemoth.It's funny how mobile trends can change. Just a few years ago, manufacturers were falling over themselves trying to outdo each other to to provide the smallest handset in the world. Motorola got them pretty thin with the RAZR line and Samsung's own D500 was titchy. brightcove : 1268512853001Then something...
Samsung Windows 8 Series 7 PC out 'mid 2012'
By TechRadar, published 11-09-2011
Samsung has revealed that it will have Windows 8 computers out by the middle of 2012 and that it is working on a modified version of its Series 7 laptop so that it can make use of the OS' touchscreen credentials.This is according to Bloomberg, which is reporting that Samsung's head of sales Uhm Kyo Ho explained that it would be releasing an updated version of the Series 7 which will come with Windows 8.You've got the touchWindows 8 was unveiled to the world in September, with Microsoft showing off an OS which is heavily tailored for the touchscreen market.brightcove : 1199351091001The Samsung Series 7 laptop – the newest of which is called the Series 7 Chronos – is one of the more desirable laptops around, so the thought of it being one of the first machines to come with Windows 8 and ...
First CES Innovations tablet award goes to Sony Tablet S
By TechRadar, published 11-09-2011
Sony has nabbed the first ever Tablets, E-readers and Netbooks CES 2012 Best of Innovations award for its intriguingly designed Sony Tablet S, beating out a host of Samsung slates.Hailed as one of the Best of Innovations 2012, the Tablet S won out thanks to its ergonomic design and entertainment know-how, including PlayStation certification.Also short listed in the Tablets, E-readers and Netbooks category were the Samsung Series 7 Slate PC, Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9, Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (Wi-Fi), Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (LTE) and the Sony Reader Wi-Fi. What happens in Vegas...The awards feature technology that will be on show at CES 2012 and aim to pick out the most exciting new products. Other gadgets to win the Best of Innovations awards included the Razer Blade in the gaming hardware an...
Buying Guide: Best laptop under £350: five to choose from
By TechRadar, published 11-07-2011
Best laptop under £350Buying a laptop for under £350 is tricky. There's always a lurking suspicion in the back of your mind, no matter how many times you pore over the spec sheet, that a machine this cheap won't do all the things you want it to. Perhaps it'll take days to open your web browser, or suffer poor frame rates running even Free Hearts? There's no need to worry. It's actually a pretty good time for mobile devices, because everybody seems so hell-bent on running around with every possible form of technology strapped to themselves at all times. Who are manufacturers to argue? We've seen some encouraging advances in integrated graphics over the last 12 months, which means laptops don't need a discrete card to deliver smooth video playback. Solid state drives have driven down the p...
Review: HTC Radar
By TechRadar, published 11-02-2011
Overview, design and feelThe HTC Radar is the latest smartphone to run Windows Phone 7.5, following on from the HTC Titan. With a smooth unibody design, HD video recording and 5MP camera, will it be enough to make Windows Phone a success?If HTC was at school right now, you can't help feeling it'd be getting an A for effort. The Taiwanese manufacturer is certainly churning out handsets like nobody's business. For the last few years, it's been concentrating mainly on Android - but now Windows Phone 7.5 Mango is here, it's going for gold. Probably much to the annoyance of Nokia, which adopted WP as its main operating system months ago, but is still being pipped to the post by HTC when it comes to getting handsets on the shelves.Little brother of the HTC Titan and the second handset from HTC t...
Updated: Top 20 best tablet PC iPad alternatives
By TechRadar, published 11-02-2011
Top 20 best tablet PC iPad alternativesHooray for 2011!The original iPad may have launched way back in the mists of early 2010, but it's only now that there is a plethora of genuine iPad alternatives to choose from.Nvidia's Tegra 2 CPU has been the driving force in a new generation of dual-core Android 3.0 tablets, while wildcard alternatives like the TouchPad and the PlayBook also sprung up running completely different operating systems.We now stand on the brink of the next-next generation of tablets. Nvidia's 'Kal-El' Tegra 3 platform will imminently cross the streams with Google's 'Ice Cream Sandwich' Android 4.0 OS and give birth to a raft of exciting new products - the first being the Motorola Xoom 2.Apple is of course putting the finishing touches to the iPad 3, and there's also a wh...
Review: Alcatel One Touch 990
By TechRadar, published 31-10-2011
Overview, design and feelSome phones are all about power; others affordability. Alcatel's One Touch 990 (or OT-990) falls firmly into the latter category, as you'd expect given the company's reputation as a purveyor of budget phones. So the question we're asking here isn't what exciting tech helps this rival Samsung's Galaxy S2, HTC's Sensation, Sony Ericsson's Xperia Arc, or any of the other powerhouses in our 20 best mobile phones list.Rather we're concerned with whether it's money well spent. Especially when the world contains the likes of Orange's budget titan, the San Francisco. If you read our review of it, you'll know we lost our heart to that phone because of its amazing competence given its paltry cost. Other rivals worth bearing in mind are the INQ Cloud Touch, which excels at so...
Updated: Amazon Kindle Fire: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 31-10-2011
Amazon Kindle Fire: what you need to knowThe Amazon Kindle Fire has been officially announced at an event in New York after months of speculation.It's a big brother to the Amazon Kindle that we know and love and is a direct competitor to BlackBerry's PlayBook and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7. As well as that larger iPad 2 thing, of course. As you'll read, it's not got an incredible feature set, but its price point - see below - sees it pitched above Amazon's existing newly redesigned Kindle and the new Kindle Touch yet under Android 3.0 tablets and the iPad 2.There's also Amazon Silk - a radical new cloud accelerated browser. Read on for everything we know about the new Kindle Fire. Amazon Kindle Fire priceThe Kindle Fire will sell for $199 in the US, but we've no confirmation on Kindle Fire...
Updated: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 31-10-2011
iPad 3 rumoured release date and processorThe iPad 2 has been out since the Spring. So now it's time tomove the rumour factory onto iPad 3.We've gathered together details on its possiblespecifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?brightcove : 1065669898001iPad 3 release dateAlthough numerous sources such as Reuters reported that the new iPad 3 is due in the fourth quarter of 2011, the signs are it will be early in 2012.On 1 July, Digitimes reported that Taiwanese-based component suppliers were gearing up for production of iPad 3. In October 2011 it was later reported that production would certainly start befor...
Updated: Top laptops: the 20 best laptops in the world
By TechRadar, published 31-10-2011
Choosing the best laptop for youOur continually updated list of all the best laptops available today.Choosing which laptop is the best for you can be a tricky business, and the amount of choice can be overwhelming. There's no shortage of cheap laptops out there to choose from, but with new models being released and almost immediately replaced by manufacturers, the choice is no easy task. As well as reading through this feature, you can also check out our video buying guide below:brightcove : 1070855030001The lure of netbooks and the rise of the mini-laptop are also huge factors for those looking for a new notebook, but each has their downsides.That's why we've pored over our huge database of laptop reviews and picked out the best notebooks money can buy. We've picked out five of the best c...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 29-10-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week's we've got a great batch of reviews for you as well as lots of hands on reviews including the new Motorola Atrix 2 and Nokia's new Lumina 800.In full reviews, tablets are also prevalent this week - we've got the rather fine new Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 as well as the Asus Eee Pad Slider review.And for camera fans, there's the super new Nikon J1. Read on to check out all this week's reviews from TechRadar.Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 reviewSamsung's attitude to the tablet market has been to throw so much mud at the Android wall that at least some of it sticks. It's got its Android 2.3 7-incher, the wonderful 10.1-inch flagship, the beautiful forthcoming 7.7-inch model and this here 8.9-inch masterpiece. By having all bases covered elegantly, Samsun...
Review: Asus Zenbook UX31
By TechRadar, published 28-10-2011
OverviewThe Asus Zenbook UX31 is one of the first laptops to conform to Intel's Ultrabook specification.And, right away, we'll tell you - it stands toe-to-toe with Apple's MacBook Air in the fight for the title of best luxury ultraportable. More competition is to come, however, in the form of the Lenovo IdeaPad U300 S, Acer Aspire S3 and, potentially, others from the likes of HP and Dell.Back to the present though and Asus has done a terrific job with the Zenbook's design - even if you have to acknowledge that the designer took more than a sneaky glance at Apple's ultraportable first.The 13-inch Zenbook is fantastic to look at. When closed, the wedge-shaped laptop measures 17mm at its thickest point and a mere 3mm at its thinnest.The aluminium silver lid boasts a distinctive concentric cir...
Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9
By TechRadar, published 27-10-2011
Overview The Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 is one of the best tablets yet released.Taking a lesson from the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 and adding a few features beyond what the Apple iPad 2 offers, this thin, light and longer-lasting tablet is the best option around if you're more interested in portability than in playing games and watching movies on a 10-inch screen.The slightly smaller size is also a better fit for reading books, browsing the web and checking email.Some might wonder why this model even exists. After all, there's a slew of 7-inch tablets available, including the Acer Iconia Tab A100, the BlackBerry PlayBook and even the Cisco Cius, which is coming to the UK. At its 8.9-inch size, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 fits somewhere between those 'too small for movies' 7-inch tabs and the larg...
Updated: PS Vita: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 27-10-2011
PlayStation Vita: what you need to knowIt's here! And by "here!" we mean "nearly here!"After much rumour and speculation, Sony announced the new PSP - formerly codenamed NGP for Next Generation Portable - would be called the PlayStation Vita. But when will the PlayStation Vita UK release date be and how much will it cost? Read on to find out.brightcove : 1091086359001PS Vita UK price will start at £229.99The UK pre-order price for the Sony PlayStation Vita has been revealed, with both Play and Game offering the handheld for £279.99 (3G) and £229.99 (Wi-Fi). The handheld appears to be $299 in the US.As the more eagle-eyed of you will notice, this is a near like-for-like dollar and pounds pricing strategy, something us in the UK are unfortunately getting used to now.PlaySt...
Review: Asus Eee Pad Slider
By TechRadar, published 25-10-2011
Overview and designWe were totally taken by the Eee Pad Transformer when it came out because it did something different to the iPad, and so gave itself room to breathe away from the tablet big guns.Now its brother, the Asus Eee Pad Slider has arrived, and manages to stand out in much the same way.The specs are fairly typical for tablets these days. The Eee Pad Slider features a 1GHz Nvidia Tegra 2 system-on-a-chip, offering dual-core power and good graphics performance, which powers Android 3.1 out of the box (though you can upgrade to 3.2 as soon as you get it connected to the internet, and an Android 4.0 update is on its way).There's 1GB of RAM to keep multitasking smooth, along with 16GB or 32GB of internal storage, though a microSD card slot means you can boost this. Wi-Fi is present u...
Updated: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 24-10-2011
iPad 3 rumoured release date and processorThe iPad 2 is out, and the rumour factory has already moved on: it's predicting iPad 3 specifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?brightcove : 1065669898001iPad 3 release dateAlthough numerous sources such as Reuters reported that the new iPad 3 is due in the fourth quarter of 2011, the signs are it will be early in 2012. However, another rumour believes it could well be November.On 1 July, Digitimes reported that Taiwanese-based component suppliers were gearing up for production of iPad 3 and iPhone 5. In October 2011 it was later reported that production would certa...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 15-10-2011
This week we've looked at two landmark products here on TechRadar - the AMD FX-8150 is a massive step forward for AMD, not least because it's an eight-core computing powerhouse. We've also taken an in-depth look at iOS 5. Apple's latest-gen mobile operating system. It introduces 200 enhancements and is available free now for your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. AMD FX-8150 reviewThis first Bulldozer chip represents AMD's biggest change in processing tech for a decade. The FX-8150 is the full-fat, eight-core AMD super-chip running at a not inconsiderable 3.6GHz straight out of the box. As it is the FX-8150 is an impressive overclocker's chip - hitting 4.7GHz gives the chip one hell of a boost in performance terms. But unfortunately the chip's just not competitive enough against its rivals. At s...
Hands on: Asus Zenbook review
By TechRadar, published 10-12-2011
When Asus unveiled its Zen ultraportable, it received a standing ovation. It had nothing to do with the Moet and Chandon that was circulating at the launch event, or the fact that The Gadget Show's Suzi Perry was showing it off.OK, so it was kind of half that, but mostly it was the skinny build of Asus' masterpiece that prompted the clapping. We'll tell you right now, the Asus Zenbook is the most impressive laptop we've seen in months.The Asus Zenbook is just 3mm thick at the front and 9mm thick at the rear. You could sever a head with this thing if you were so inclined. That's some advertising we really want to see: "Asus Zenbook - can slice through zombies if you're trapped in some horrific post-apocalyptic version of Earth."Despite the slim build, Asus has found room on the Zenb...
Updated: Top laptops: the 20 best laptops in the world
By TechRadar, published 10-11-2011
Choosing the best laptop for youOur continually updated list of all the best laptops available today.Choosing which laptop is the best for you can be a tricky business, and the amount of choice can be overwhelming. There's no shortage of cheap laptops out there to choose from, but with new models being released and almost immediately replaced by manufacturers, the choice is no easy task. As well as reading through this feature, you can also check out our video buying guide below:brightcove : 1070855030001The lure of netbooks and the rise of the mini-laptop are also huge factors for those looking for a new notebook, but each has their downsides.That's why we've pored over our huge database of laptop reviews and picked out the best notebooks money can buy. We've picked out five of the best c...
Exclusive: Nikon: Possibility of 'pro' Nikon 1 not ruled out
By TechRadar, published 23-09-2011
Nikon's new 1 series of cameras, introduced on Wednesday, are the company's first foray into the world of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. Keen to avoid being seen as jumping on the bandwagon, Nikon calls the V1 and the J1 an "advanced interchangeable lens camera" or "ACIL".Unlike other compact system cameras (CSCs) on the market, the V1 and J1 both use small a small sensor as compared to the APS-C sized DSLR like sensors of Sony's NEX and Samsung's NX range, or Olympus and Panasonic's micro four thirds size.While there was a lot of excitement surrounding the launch of the new cameras, some DSLR users have expressed disappointment at the size of the sensor, which offers a 2.7x crop. In an exclusive interview with TechRadar, Simon Iddon, Product Manager at Nikon UK, ...
Updated: PS Vita: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 14-09-2011
PlayStation Vita: what you need to knowIt's here! And by "here!" we mean "nearly here!" After much rumour and speculation, Sony has announced that the new PSP - formerly codenamed NGP for Next Generation Portable - will be called the PlayStation Vita. So what are the PlayStation Vita specs, when will the UK release date be and how much will it cost?brightcove : 1091086359001PS Vita UK price will start at £229.99The UK pre-order price for the Sony PlayStation Vita has been revealed, with both Play and Game offering the handheld for £279.99 (3G) and £229.99 (Wi-Fi).As the more eagle-eyed of you will notice, this is a near like-for-like dollar and pounds pricing strategy, something us in the UK are unfortunately getting used to now.There was originally a credible previously...
Review: Lenovo G770
By TechRadar, published 14-09-2011
The Lenovo G770 packs fantastic power and good graphical performance into a solid big-screen laptop which is great for the home. We'd recommend it to anyone looking for a desktop replacement, but movie buffs will be disappointed about the lack of a 1080p screen. The first thing that strikes you when opening the G770 is the fantastic build quality. There's an expanse of brushed metal, in which sits a generous isolation-style keyboard with well-cushioned keys. It took us a while to get used to the travel between the keys, but it was comfortable to use for long periods. Under the hood is a generous amount of power, and enough for anyone who's looking for a few years of good use. The processor is a Sandy Bridge Intel Core i7 2620M 2.7GHz, which is the same found in the MacBook Pro, which costs...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 09-10-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarHas the economy suddenly picked up? This week we got our hands on the fantastic 60-inch, 3D-capable and Smart TV-enabled UE60D8000 from Samsung, which doesn't come cheap at £4,300, and then the £1,000+ Asus MARS II Limited Edition graphics card landed on our desk.At the other end of the spectrum we were impressed with the Samsung PL120, which can be picked up for under £100 and the Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini Pro, which is both small in price and size.Read on for this week's most popular reviews on TechRadar.Samsung UE60D8000 reviewWhen Samsung gave us exclusive access to its brand new flagship LCD TV, we were excited. It's hard not to be excited by these new Samsungs - just look at them. There's almost no bezel at all, which means the picture goes ...
In Depth: Are glasses killing 3D TV?
By TechRadar, published 09-08-2011
Are glasses killing 3D TV?It's a debate that's sure to polarise, but are glasses killing-off 3D in the home?Research has found that 3D TV owners in the UK typically own just two pairs of glasses - 13 per cent don't own any - and see the high cost as a major barrier to buying more. In a survey of 3D TV owners in the UK, researched by Strategy Analytics, just over half agreed that they would buy more 3D glasses for family and friends if prices were lower. "The glasses issue is very real," says Jia Wu, a senior analyst at the firm. "Naturally enough, people would rather not have to wear them, but a majority of 3D TV viewers are prepared to put up with the inconvenience when the experience and entertainment value justify it."Having invested in a 3D TV, you'd have thought so, bu...
Buying Guide: Best PAYG phone - budget mobiles compared
By TechRadar, published 09-07-2011
Best budget PAYG phonesWith the mobile marketplace teeming with a multitude of smartphones, one might wonder whether cheap pay and go phones still have a place in the mobile infrastructure.With massive innovation in both hardware and operating systems, phones now do a lot more than just let you talk and text, with phones like the Samsung Galaxy S2 and Apple iPhone 5 stealing headlines around the world these days.Sadly all this innovation isn't cheap – and most of it is reserved for high-end contract handsets. So, is there such a thing as the 'best pay as you go phone on a budget'?Omio has provided a list of the top selling cheap phones at the moment, which we've taken to task to bring you the best PAYG phones around at the moment - so if you're looking to pick up a decent handset for not...
Samsung Galaxy Note UK pre-orders begin
By TechRadar, published 09-06-2011
Pre-orders for the Samsung Galaxy Note, one of the stars of IFA 2011, have started with the portable device coming with a rather large price tag.The tablet-phone hybrid was certainly an eye opener at IFA. Not only does it bring a sparkling 5.3-inch AMOLED screen, but it also comes with a stylus – an accessory that never seems to die.The handset marks a new, as yet unnamed category, for Samsung that sits between its smartphones and Galaxy Tab range.Samsung Galaxy Note 5.3 priceIt comes packing Android 2.3 Gingerbread and, deep breath, 1.4 GHz dual core processor, 2 megapixel front-facing camera, 8 megapixel camera with LED flash, 1080p video playback, 16GB internal storage, microSD expansion up to 32GB, Bluetooth 3.0, WiFi, A-GPS and a 3.5mm jack. The Samsung Galaxy Note is now showcased ...
20% of 7digital sales now from portable devices
By TechRadar, published 09-06-2011
7digital has announced some impressive growth numbers this week, with one million active users of the music download service on mobile devices making up more than 20 per cent of all downloads.7digital's push into the mobile space has been a stealth one. It has cornered a nice market, offering a decent music player and download service on devices that have none.The likes of BlackBerry, Samsung and Toshiba all use 7digital to power their music players and, according to 7digital, the Samsung Galaxy S2 is the top device for downloads, followed by the BlackBerry PlayBook and, interestingly, the Huawei M860.Enabling music"It's great to see such strong growth for our apps and API partners via smartphones, tablets and other devices," said Ben Drury, CEO 7digital."Sales to devices were ...
Review: Three MiFi Huawei Wireless Modem E586
By TechRadar, published 09-05-2011
Three MiFi E586: OverviewThe way the tablet market has shaken out, it looks like those who want 3G built into their iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 will have to pay a hefty price for the privilege (on the iPad, for example, having the option costs an extra hundred pounds). And that's before you get to actually paying the networks.The MiFi was introduced as a cunning way to reduce this cost, and not just for tablets, but laptops, media players anything else Wi-Fi.What devices such as the Three MiFi Huawei Wireless Modem E586 do is connect to mobile broadband, and act as a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to five devices, making it ideal for Wi-Fi-only iPad owners, or even iPod touch users.As you might expect, you've got your choice of monthly or pay-as-you-go plans, with the MiFi E586 costing around £...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 09-03-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarIn case you haven't noticed this week has seen the IFA gadget and tech show taking place in Berlin and as such, we've been able to get our hands on a host of new tech toys.We've been playing with tablets, TVs, phones, cameras and more.Read on to discover the kit that's impressed us this week.Hands on: Sony Tablet S reviewSony has officially launched its new Tablet S at IFA 2011.The new 9.4-inch tab is powered by Nvidia's Tegra 2 processor and features the Android Honeycomb operating system. It's version 3.1 which will be upgradeable to 3.2.The Sony Tablet S UK release date is September. A Wi-Fi/3G version of the Tablet S has a UK release date of November 2011 - this will ship with Android 3.2 from the off.Hands on: Sony Tablet P reviewYes, it's an od...
IFA 2011: Hands on: Acer Aspire S3 Series review
By TechRadar, published 09-02-2011
We had some hands-on action with Acer's new Aspire S3 Series Ultrabook this morning, in a packed and sweaty Berlin hall at IFA 2011. The Taiwanese giant has really impressed us with its great value laptops this year, so we were keen to check out this ultra-slim lapt top, which is just 17mm at itshickest point, and 13mm at its thinnest. This makes it slightly slimmer than the Samsung 9003X, which was already impressively slender.The metal chassis looks reassuringly solid, constructed from a lightweight aluminium/magnesium alloy. We were impressed at just how light the Aspire S3 feels when you pick it up, and the friendly Acer rep confirmed it weighs a measly 1.3kg.The body is slim across its entire length and the lid in particular is impressively thin. Despite this, the centre did not flex ...
IFA 2011: Hands on: Toshiba Z830 review
By TechRadar, published 09-02-2011
Toshiba has announced it will be throwing its hat into Intel's Ultrabook ring with the brand new Portege Z830, launched here at IFA 2011. And the Japanese manufacturer has started strongly by outing the thinnest and lightest model seen to date. TechRadar got our hands on the early model in Berlin, and while details are still very light on the ground, it looks to be a promising start.The Toshiba Portege Z830 is a 13.3-inch laptop, which measures just 15.9mm at its thickest point. It's styled with clean lines, and presented in an understated dark metallic silver, which shuns the premium styling of ultraportable giants such as the Samsung Series 9 and the MacBook Air.To be an UltraBook, Intel demands that any product bearing its moniker has to be under 18mm thick, and the Portege Z830 manages...
IFA 2011: Hands on: Toshiba AT200 review
By TechRadar, published 09-02-2011
Toshiba has upped its tablet gambit with its announcement of the super-thin AT200 at IFA 2011. The new tablet, which is just 7.7mm thick, is even thinner than the size-zero Samsung Galaxy 10.1, and weighs just 558g. Until someone announces something fractionally slimmer, this gets the crown as the world's thinnest and lightest 10.1-inch tablet.The waif like build is immediately noticeable as soon as you lift up the Toshiba AT200, and it's ideal for slipping into a bag making it a great portable device. There's little curvature in the chassis, and the flat body is reminiscent of the iPhone 4, giving it the same compact feel. Interestingly, this does make it feel slightly chunkier than the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 and iPad 2, both of which are thinner at the edges where you hold the device, b...
IFA 2011: Hands on: Samsung Series 7 Slate PC review
By TechRadar, published 09-02-2011
Windows 7 is not an interface that lends itself to touch, so it's with a degree of surprise and a healthy dose of relief to say that the new Samsung 7 Series Slate PC is a bit tasty.Despite the name, this is very much a tablet and it couldn't be more different to the monstrous Asus Eee Slate EP121 or the lacklustre Acer Iconia Tab W500 that we looked at earlier in the year.Indeed, it looks a lot more like its Galaxy Tab stablemates than any of its - let's call them 'bulky' - Windows 7 tablet rivals. Despite packing an 11.6-inch screen and a quad-core Intel Core i5-2467M CPU, this tablet is slim and light and without doubt the best Windows tablet we've seen.How Samsung has managed to pack so much power into such a slender chassis is a mystery, but if Windows 7 ever had a chance of being a h...
IFA 2011: Hands on: Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 review
By TechRadar, published 09-02-2011
The Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 might be the first Super AMOLED Plus-screened tablet to launch, but it was beaten into second place here at IFA 2011 by its littler sibling, the Samsung Galaxy Note. Normally this tab would have stolen the show – it's just 7.89mm thick like the Galaxy Tab 10.1. The most remarkable thing about Samsung's latest gen tablets is that they seem light years ahead of the original Samsung Galaxy Tab that debuted at last year's IFA. Of course, there have been two major advances for Android tablets since then. The first, Android Honeycomb. The second, dual-core processors. Both are in evidence here (Android 3.2) in what is a remarkable device weighing just 335g. An iPad 2 weighs 600g.Like the Galaxy Note, the dual-core ARM Cortex-A9-based processor is clocked at 1.4GHz. W...
Tutorial: How to build your own Google Chromebook
By TechRadar, published 28-08-2011
How to build your own Google ChromebookWith the recent release of Google's Chromebooks, you might find yourself asking if you really want to spend your hard-earned cash on one. Don't worry - we'll show you how you can test out all aspects of a Chromebook without having to sink any of your cash into the hardware. The good news is that the Chrome OS project is an open source one, so anyone with an interest and some spare time can go online, grab the source code and compile their own version of the operating system. The even better news is that someone has already done that for you. A helpful chap called Hexxeh has been churning out automated nightly builds of the Chrome OS for quite some time, and making them available to download from here. This makes it easy to try out Chrome OS in various...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 27-08-2011
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadarThis week has been a bumper week for kit on TechRadar - it's hardly been a slow week for news, either.We've got the pocket 3D camcorder, the Sony Bloggie 3D, the Panasonic DMC-FZ48 with a super 24x lens. Also from Panasonic is the 65-inch Panasonic's TX-P65VT30.And then there's the updated Sony Xperia Mini - a diminutive Android handset, HTC Evo 3D plus much more besides.Sony Bloggie 3D reviewThe Sony Bloggie 3D MHS-FS3 certainly isn't cheap, but then this is a distinctly premium point-and-shoot video recorder. The obvious draw is simple, hassle-free 3D recording and playback, with an easy way to trim and upload the footage. But it's not just a one-trick, three-dimensional pony; there's a good range of 2D recording options too, including 1080p, so So...
Review: Toshiba Satellite L730
By TechRadar, published 25-08-2011
This 13.3-inch entertainment laptop is perfect for staving off boredom on the move. The Satellite L730-10G lacks graphical punch, but the compact display is a highlight, while the lightweight body and decent battery life ensure you'll be entertained wherever you roam. Despite its smaller screen, the Satellite L730-10G still features a 1366 x 768-pixel resolution. The result is a much sharper picture, so images look crisp and clean. It's also a bright and vibrant panel, making this one of the best displays for movie watching. We enjoyed simply browsing our photo collection and watching films, although the integrated speakers are lacking in power. We recommend you invest in some decent headphones. Most recent laptops use Intel's latest Sandy Bridge processing technology, but this portable is...
Review: Samsung RV720
By TechRadar, published 25-08-2011
With its 17.3-inch screen, the Samsung RV720 is a large laptop. It isn't quite the chunkiest, with a surprisingly slim body considering the girth, but at 2.8kg it is pretty heavy. While it can feasibly be carried around if needed, it works much better as a desktop replacement machine, especially given the mediocre battery life. For a family machine that will sit on your desk at home, this is a great option. We loved the half-metallic, half-gloss design. The brushed aluminium palmrests are resistant to fingerprints and smudges and also reassuringly solid. We pushed and prodded the laptop as much as we dared and found no weak points.Like most of the new laptops around, one of Intel's Sandy Bridge processors provides excellent performance. It's the same model as found in the Acer Aspire 5750G...
Review: Toshiba Tecra R840-11E
By TechRadar, published 24-08-2011
Toshiba's Tecra range strikes a fine balance between consumer and business laptops. The Tecra R840-11E offers tons of business features and great performance in a light and slim body, but at a price that isn't out of grasp for the average consumer. The first of the business features is a built-in fingerprint scanner wedged between the mouse buttons. You can use this to log on to your laptop, which saves the hassle of remembering complex passwords. An ExpressCard slot allows you to add peripherals, such as graphics cards, TV Tuner cards and extra storage, while an eSATA port can be used to back up your files to an external hard drive. DisplayPort and VGA ports mean you can hook up an external monitor or projector. You can even connect wirelessly with compatible televisions. Your data will b...
Updated: Judge rules Samsung Galaxy S2 sales must be stopped
By TechRadar, published 24-08-2011
A Dutch judge has ruled that sales of the Samsung Galaxy S2, Galaxy S and Galaxy Ace are to be stopped in the Netherlands.Apple was claiming that not only did Samsung's smartphones and tablets infringe on design patents, but also infringed on three key software patents too, although only one of these claims have been upheld.These software patents are:EP 2,058,868 - method of scrolling / browsing gallery; EP 2098948 - recording a "flag" in connection with multiple screen taps, of which Samsung would use the system by using Android 2.3 or later version; EP 1,964,022 - method of "unlocking" of a portable device through the touch screen an "unlock image" in a way to drag. Heart of the hydraThe problem here is the Netherlands controls the entry point to Europe for supply of the devices, so a ba...
BBC to show off next-gen television streaming for mobiles
By TechRadar, published 24-08-2011
The BBC is to show off the latest mobile television technology, with a first public demonstration of DVB-T2-Lite at the IBC conference in early September. The famed BBC research and development department will be conducting the first demo of DVB-T2-Lite which is the mobile version of a technology that was crucial to the rollout of Freeview HD. "DVB-T2-Lite [is] a new profile which will allow cost reduced receiver implementations for applications such as mobile broadcasting," explains the BBC press release."The profile can be mixed with conventional T2 signals in a single multiplex, to allow separate optimisation of the individual components and also to reuse the existing broadcast transmitter infrastructure."Existing techWhat that means is that we could see live television signals on our p...
In Depth: How long before local storage is dead?
By TechRadar, published 23-08-2011
PCs, laptops, mobile phones, tablets - many computer users now routinely work on more than one device, and that's just one reason why there's a growing move to the cloud.Tying your emails, contacts, documents and more to a single system is just too inconvenient: it's far easier to, say, just log on to Gmail or Google Docs from each of your devices as necessary. There's no hassle, no synchronisation issues, no lost information or other problems - everything just works.And if you like the idea then Google's Chromebooks give you an opportunity to take cloud computing to a whole new level. Compact, lightweight and with a long battery life, they could be an appealing replacement for some laptops. And they store just about everything online - bookmarks, cookies, emails, documents, applications a...
Updated: iOS 5: all the latest details
By TechRadar, published 23-08-2011
We're expecting big things from Apple this year: the iPhone 5 will be with us at some point in 2011, and some rumours suggest we'll see the iPad 3 as early as this autumn. But in the meantime there's a new version of iOS, iOS 5 here and it's been revealed during tonight's WWDC 2011 keynote.iOS in numbers: 200 million iOS devices soldRead on for our list of all the new iOS 5 features but for a video rundown of what's new, check out our pal T3's video below:iOS 5 release dateThe iOS release date is Autumn 2011 - probably to coincide with the new iPhone.iOS 5 compatibilityiOS 5 will work with iPhone 4 and 3GS (the latter is a surprise), iPad and iPad 2, and the iPod touch 3rd and 4th gen. We're also a little surprised to see it's going to be rolled out to the original iPad, but as it has the ...
Buying Guide: Best monitor: 10 top displays tested
By TechRadar, published 22-08-2011
Picking where to put your pennies when it comes to pricing up a PC can be a pain. Compromises must be made. But if any component deserves a large chunk of your dosh, it's undoubtedly a monitor. Choosing the best LCD monitor can be a pain, but we're here to help. The screen is quite literally a window into the workings of your PC. It's the one component that influences the user experience every time you sit down and fire up. Put another way, a shader-packed graphics card is great for games. For everything else, it's a billion transistors twiddling their thumbs.A high-end CPU admittedly has a wider repertoire. For most things, most of the time, however, a cheap quad-core chip delivers all the performance you can actually use.What LCD monitor?So, a good PC monitor gives more and it gives it m...
Buying Guide: Best LCD monitor: 10 top displays tested
By TechRadar, published 22-08-2011
Picking where to put your pennies when it comes to pricing up a PC can be a pain. Compromises must be made. But if any component deserves a large chunk of your dosh, it's undoubtedly a monitor. Choosing the best LCD monitor can be a pain, but we're here to help. The screen is quite literally a window into the workings of your PC. It's the one component that influences the user experience every time you sit down and fire up. Put another way, a shader-packed graphics card is great for games. For everything else, it's a billion transistors twiddling their thumbs.A high-end CPU admittedly has a wider repertoire. For most things, most of the time, however, a cheap quad-core chip delivers all the performance you can actually use.What LCD monitor?So, a good PC monitor gives more and it gives it m...
Review: Samsung Series 9 T27A950
By TechRadar, published 21-08-2011
Samsung's Series 9 T27A950 drew big crowds when it was first unveiled at the 2011 CES. A hybrid 27-inch Freeview HD 3D TV and PC monitor, it's a leading-edge screen for your desktop that offers all the functions of the brand's high-end LED TVs. The design is inspired, with a panel that's effectively suspended above its pedestal via a swooping right-hand bracket. This tilts backwards for a relaxed viewing position. Slimline 7W stereo speakers fire forwards from the front of the super-thin pedestal, while inputs are ranged along the rear. Just as on the brand's regular TVs, the TA950 sports Samsung's Smart Hub apps and IPTV portal, home to the BBC iPlayer YouTube, LOVEFiLM and the new and exclusive Explore 3D content channel. The set uses LED backlighting, which runs up the left and right si...
In Depth: Whatever happened to Wireless USB & HDMI?
By TechRadar, published 19-08-2011
A few years ago, we were promised that USB cables would be a thing of the past. And that our HD TVs would also connect to our Sky boxes and Blu-ray players wirelessly. So where are the wireless ultrawideband (UWB) technologies that were supposed to get rid of these cables? Picture the scene – it's CES 2007. The consortium of manufacturers that make up the USB Implementers Forum has a small but significant presence on the show floor, demoing cameras which download their pictures to your PC just by being placed in their presence. A printer starts spitting out high quality prints with no cables attached. In a side room below the Sands Convention Centre, Philips shows off TVs with Wireless HDMI adaptors. It's a triumph, winning praise from those who like to mount their screens on the wall, b...
Review: Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini
By TechRadar, published 18-08-2011
Before the arrival of Sony's Ericsson's new Xperia Mini, the X10 Mini and X10 Mini Pro were an odd little couple, launching in mid-2010 with Android 1.6 and a bespoke and heavily-customised user interface on top.They weren't amazingly powerful phones and their 2.55" screens were shockingly small - but Sony Ericsson did a good job of maximising the available space with its corner-based interface. The same system has returned in 2011's updates, albeit improved thanks to Sony Ericsson's developers having another year to fiddle with the interface and add more new layers of social integration. We've got some real-life footage of ACTUAL people using the phone - check it out if these grouped-together letters are too much:The new Xperia Mini is available SIM-free for just over the £200 mark, with...
Samsung dual display design images surface
By TechRadar, published 18-08-2011
Design images purportedly from Samsung's brain trust have surfaced, indicating that the company may be considering a clamshell design tablet or ereader. The dual-display drawings show a hinged book-style design, with one showing two sizeable screens (presumably these would be touchscreens) and the other showing two smaller facing screens with a QWERTY keypad stretching beneath them. It's not clear exactly what device this would be; it could be a Samsung ereader in a nice book-like format, or perhaps even a clamshell tablet. After all, if Sony can go off the beaten tablet path with its funny cylindrical Sony S2, why not Samsung?You're bookedIt could even be a smartphone or a gaming device, although we're not convinced that either of those would be a good idea. Hey, we're just spit-balling h...
In Depth: Asus Eee Pad Slider: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 18-08-2011
We love Asus's Eee Pad Transformer, so we can't wait to get our hands on its Slider sibling. As the name suggests, the Asus Eee Pad Slider has a slidey bit - a display that reveals a proper keyboard - but what else is inside, and what's it going to cost? Let's find out.Asus Eee Pad Slider specificationsAsus has revealed all: the Eee Pad Slider specs include a 1.0GHz dual-core NVIDA Tegra 2, a full QWERTY keyboard and USB port, SRS surround sound, a 10.1-inch WXGA (1280x800) screen and 1GB of RAM. There's a choice of 16GB or 32GB of storage, twin cameras - 1.2MP on the front and 5MP on the back - 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1. The panel is an Apple-style Intelligent Plane Switching (IPS) job, delivering a wide 178-degree viewing angle.Asus Eee Pad Slider softwareHardly a surprise, this: the...
Review: Acer Aspire Ethos 8951G
By TechRadar, published 17-08-2011
These days we're seeing a lot more slim and light ultraportable laptops. Rising up against these size zero models is the Acer Aspire Ethos 8951G.Like the Dell XPS 15z and the Macbook Pro 17 inch, this is all about packing in huge amounts of power, and who cares if it's on the chunky side. After all, as our mothers told us: it's not the outside, it's what's on the inside that counts.As with the previous Ethos models, the Acer Aspire Ethos 8951G is an entertainment centre that's designed to sit on your desk at home.Crushing the scales at 4.2kg, you wouldn't want to carry this laptop any further than the next room, to avoid popping a couple of vertebrae.That said, we were impressed at how thin the Ethos is. Sure, 40mm can't really be described as 'thin', when you consider that the Samsung 900...
In Depth: PS Vita: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 17-08-2011
It's here! And by "here!" we mean "nearly here!" After much rumour and speculation, Sony has announced that the new PSP - formerly codenamed NGP for Next Generation Portable - will be called the PlayStation Vita. So what are the PS Vita specs, when will the UK release date be and how much will it cost?PS Vita UK price will start at £229.99The UK pre-order price for the Sony PlayStation Vita has been revealed, with both Play and Game offering the handheld for £279.99 (3G) and £229.99 (Wi-Fi).As the more eagle-eyed of you will notice, this is a near like-for-like dollar and pounds pricing strategy, something us in the UK are unfortunately getting used to now.There was originally a credible previously rumoured pricing. Given that the Wi-Fi only version of the new PlayStation Vita would be ...
New Lastolite Strobo Beauty Box announced
By TechRadar, published 15-08-2011
Lastolite, the backgrounds and lighting systems manufacturer, has announced the launch of a new £100 Strobo Beauty Box. The box is a 38cm (15 inch) beauty box and softbox combination designed for off-camera flash. The white interior combined with the suspended inner baffle and outer mask give off a hard beauty light with a unique fall off. The company says that this is in contrast to the soft light that is created when the mask is replaced by the outer diffuser, giving two different lighting options within the same product. It's a beautyThe Beauty Box is also collapsible and portable, as well as being designed for a quick set up and take down. The box is designed with studio and location photography in mind, and can also incorporate the Exybox Hotshoe Bracket MkII.The Strobo Beauty Box is...
Apple A6 chip trial production begins
By TechRadar, published 15-08-2011
Chip company Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) has kicked off a trial production run of the A6 processor, set to power Apple mobile devices in 2012.The chip is said to be based on a 28nm process, an upgrade on Apple's current iPad 2-powering A5 chip, which is 45nm.It's also the first Apple mobile chip to include 3D stacking technology, in which two or more layers of components are stacked atop each other. This implementation of complex 3D components is thought to be the reason for the trial run.Thanks to the 28nm process and 3D stacking, the chip is able to pack more transistors into its tiny form factor, resulting in greater computing power and efficiency. 2012 DoomsdayThe quad-core chip is set to debut in Apple mobile devices in Spring 2012, which means we can expect to see a ...
Opinion: Googorola means Apple should start worrying
By TechRadar, published 15-08-2011
Google buying Motorola Mobility, the handset arm of Moto, caught everyone by surprise, but it was quickly assumed to be about the search giant suiting up for the imminent patent war.And that's really what it's all about - Android is crucial to Google as a future cash stream as we increasingly stuff more portable devices into our bag.However there's a more pressing question on the minds of consumers: what will this mean for actual devices? As the news of the announcement broke, many questioned why Google didn't pick up a more popular brand - HTC would be the obvious choice, given its close links to the formation of Android and escalating prominence.Patents aside (the Taiwanese firm holds far fewer than Moto) it still wouldn't make sense for Google to pick up the firm. HTC has a much higher ...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 13-08-2011
This week we've reviewed a huge variety of kit including BlackBerry's latest handset, the BlackBerry Bold 9900 - and, as you'll read, it's a cracker.We've also taken an in-depth look at the HTC Evo 3D, Samsung ST6500 as well as the brand new 11-inch MacBook Air. Apple's new baby replaces the low-end MacBook (well, we say low end, but it's still expensive) and features Intel's latest Core i5 processor. Read on and click through to read our best reviews this week. BlackBerry Bold 9900 reviewIt's been a long time coming, has BlackBerry's touchscreen Bold handset. While the BlackBerry Torch offered both a touchscreen and QWERTY keyboard, it wasn't perfect for keyboard aficionados; that annoying edging, the cramped keyboard… But with the launch of the BlackBerry Bold 9900, its first proper to...
Review: BlackBerry Bold 9900
By TechRadar, published 08-10-2011
The BlackBerry Bold 9900 comes as something of a shock. You see, for years, BlackBerry has, in a sense, been catching up. That's not a dig at its parent company – it's practically royalty in push email and corporate handset circles. But it has been rare for RIM to lead the way. Cameras, internet browsing, HTML emails – all were included on RIM's phones years after they'd become standard fare on other handsets. For recent examples of decent phones that didn't really push the envelope all that far, just take a look at the Bold 9780 and 9700.But the Bold 9000 finally offers some cutting-edge tech, and in an attractive package to boot. Its 1.2GHz processor, high-spec touchscreen, brand new OS7 and HD video camera are all specs we never really expected a BlackBerry to have before the next m...
Apple also suing Motorola over Xoom
By TechRadar, published 08-10-2011
Apple is suing Motorola in Germany over the design of the Motorola Xoom and its similarities to the iPad, according to small print another court case. The notes were spotted in Apple's complaint against Samsung over the Galaxy Tab 10.1, which saw sales of Samsung's tablet suspended in Europe as the courts granted Apple a preliminary injunction. The Motorola Xoom could go the way of the Tab 10.1 in Europe if the courts rule in favour of Apple again, although the notes do not clarify whether Apple has requested an injunction in this case. Xoom, and the tablet's goneThe Motorola Xoom has another thing in common with the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1; both tablets run Android Honeycomb. Apple isn't shy about going after its Android-running competitors; but with the iPad such a runaway success, it do...
Updated: Ice Cream Sandwich: everything you need to know
By TechRadar, published 08-10-2011
Google has dropped some interesting information about Ice Cream Sandwich, the next version of Android at its Google I/O conference. We'll update this article with more information on the new Android as soon as we get it. It talked about the new OS during the Opening keynote speech of the Google I/O conference in San Francisco. Real Ice Cream Sandwiches aren't exactly prevalent in the UK - we have wafers - so if you want to see a real Ice Cream Sandwich, you'd better do some scrolling. As we reported from Google's keynote at Mobile World Congress, Google's mantra for the OS is "one OS everywhere" – it will be a single version of Android running across phones and tablets, unlike Android 3.0 Honeycomb that only runs on tablets.That's why it's a Sandwich y'see.Will Ice Cream Sandwich be Andr...
Samsung unveils updated Series 9 laptops
By TechRadar, published 08-01-2011
Samsung has unveiled two new, lower-priced Series 9 notebooks which bring faster Core i5 processors to the Windows-computing party. The two Samsung 900X3A models offer "faster" Core i5 CPUs, 4GB memory and are crafted from duralumin, traditionally used to make aircraft and thus lending itself to the light-but-zippy image that Samsung is trying to portray. The higher-spec 900X3A-BO2UK model comes with Windows 7 Premium, a VGA display adaptor for video-out without HDMI as well as a higher price tag. Good naming, SamsungSlightly cheaper but less-well equipped is the equally well named 900X3A-BO1UK, which comes with Windows 7 Home Premium, It's no secret that we're fans of the Series 9's looks; we described it as "one of the most arresting designs we've seen since the Dell Adamo XPS" in our of...
Chrome now second biggest browser in UK
By TechRadar, published 08-01-2011
Google Chrome has taken the number two spot in the British browser wars, shuffling Mozilla Firefox down into third place. Chrome hit 22.1 per cent of users in July, inching past Firefox's 22 per cent according to StatCounter. The ever-present Internet Explorer is still top of the heap with 45 per cent of UK internet users opting for the Microsoft-made browser. Sad safariTrailing in fourth place is Safari, Apple's proprietary web browser, with just 9 per cent of the nation accessing the internet using it. Chrome has steadily increased its share of the global browser market, too, with its users up two per cent in July compared to June. Meanwhile, Internet Explorer use has fallen again from 44 per cent globally in June to 42 per cent in July. No doubt Google's aggressive advertising campaigns...
Review: Samsung RV511
By TechRadar, published 08-01-2011
Samsung's RV511-S01UK is a great all-round laptop. From its excellent keyboard to the dedicated graphics, there's a lot to recommend. One of Intel's previous-generation Core i3 processors is in charge and capably runs everything you throw at it, from word processors and web browsers to complex design software. An impressive 6GB of memory is tonboard and keeps everything running smoothly. If your studies involve heavy design and editing work – for instance, touching up photos and videos or constructing artistic masterpieces – the Samsung is a great choice, thanks to its basic dedicated Nvidia graphics card. Not only can you edit your media, you can also kick back and enjoy Full HD video or indulge in light gaming. Of course, you'll need a decent screen so you can comfortably work all ni...
Review: HP G62
By TechRadar, published 08-01-2011
Despite being quite cheap, we were stunned to discover that the HP G62-b32SA packed a powerful Intel Core i5 460M processor. This gives incredible value for money in terms of performance, although the G62 also has its flaws. In our benchmarking tests, that powerful processor beat everything here except the Dell Inspiron 15r. We found we could perform any number of tasks at the same time – for instance, burning a DVD while listening to music and surfing the internet – and there was next to no slowdown. This is a truly remarkable result, given the low price point. There's only 3GB of memory compared to the 4GB that comes installed in most modern laptops, but even that doesn't seem to impact on how well the HP runs programs. Of course, sacrifices have to be made somewhere and the G62 has ...
Updated: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 08-01-2011
The iPad 2 is out, and the rumour factory has already moved on: it's predicting iPad 3 specifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?iPad 3 release dateThis is the biggest rumour of all: an iPad 3 mere months after the iPad 2. An unnamed Apple employee says that the iPad 2 was a bit of a rush job, and "the third generation iPad is the one to make a song and dance about."Respected Apple watcher John Gruber added fuel to that particular fire by strongly hinting that the iPad 3 release date will be in September 2011.If Gruber is right about this and the iPad 3 features in an Apple autumn line-up, then it looks like...
Review: MSI CR640
By TechRadar, published 08-01-2011
Korean company MSI hasn't got the brand power of the likes of Dell and Packard Bell, but the CR640-020UK is a well-crafted laptop that offers decent performance and media potential at a reasonable price. Like the Packard Bell EasyNote NS44 HR-033UK and Dell Inspiron 15r N5110, the MSI uses Intel's latest Sandy Bridge technology to run software. The results are excellent, with tons of power considering the low cost. We found we could surf the web, listen to music and run powerful editing software all at the same time with no slowdown. As with most of the laptops at this price, there's no dedicated graphics card. Instead, the processor handles tasks such as editing media and playing games. Despite this, the MSI does an admirable job, as the Sandy Bridge technology has been optimised for rend...
Review: New MacBook Air 2011
By TechRadar, published 28-07-2011
Last October, Apple released the last MacBook Air. It was a mighty fine-looking piece of hardware - a newly designed unibody shell, 0.3cm at its thinnest.Trouble is, the meat inside didn't quite match up with the supreme exterior – Apple had been forced to stick with the ageing Intel Core 2 Duo processor.Intel had originally produced a special, smaller packaged Core 2 Duo variant for the first-generation MacBook Air that was still clinging on in last year's release.The small processor package, presumably, couldn't be bettered until this year's Sandy Bridge generation of Intel Core chips arrived.So here we are with the newly-launched 13-inch 2011 MacBook Air running the new Mac OS X 10.7 Lion operating system. The MacBook Air is expensive for what it is, starting at £849. For the compone...
Review: Sony VAIO Z Series
By TechRadar, published 26-07-2011
The old cliché states that good things come in small packages, which means that chicken nuggets, dead hedgehogs and Peter Andre's head are all apparently 'good things'. However, we have to agree with this logic when it's applied to Sony's latest VAIO Z Series ultra-portable laptop, the Sony VAIO VPC-Z21V9E.Despite being cursed by a name that's less catchy than an N-Dubz tune, this is an excellent little 13.1-inch PC laptop that we'd happily use as our everyday computer. That is, if we happened to have a spare couple of grand knocking around, priced as it is at £2,699.We've seen a lot of ultra-portables lately, from the sleek and sexy Samsung 900XSA to the business-oriented Lenovo ThinkPad X1. It's impressive how much power you can now cram into a tiny frame, ably demonstrated by the new ...
Review: HP ProBook 5330m
By TechRadar, published 26-07-2011
Back in the day, business laptops were bulky, ugly crates that could splinter the spine of a fully-grown mountain bear. Thankfully that's all in the past, and now modern business portable PCs are not just slim and light, they're also surprisingly chic, appealing to the average consumer as well as suited and booted execs.HP's business ultra-portable, the ProBook 5330m, follows the release of the ultra-slender and impressively waterproof Lenovo ThinkPad X1 last month. The HP ProBook 5330m packs Intel Sandy Bridge technology into a thin 28mm aluminium chassis, and the result is a heady mix of power and portability.If you're constantly on the move, you'll love that slender build. This portable is just as thin as Lenovo's ThinkPad X1, and only a little chunkier than the Samsung 9000 Series and ...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 23-07-2011
This week we've taken a first look at the new webOS HP Veer smartphone as well as Apple's brand-new MacBook Air featuring blistering performance from Intel's Core i5 and i7 processors.We've also reviewed Nokia's latest X7 smartphone as well as the Samsung Galaxy S and Samsung Galaxy Pro. Check all our reviews out below. HP Veer reviewIn the beginning, there was Palm. The company created the handheld/smartphone category with the original personal digital assistants in 1996. Now, following an HP acquisition about a year ago, it's emerged with a new super-tiny model, the HP Veer.The smartphone is priced at $99 with a two-year contract in the US, with costs yet to be announced in the UK. It's so light, at 103g, and small, at 84x54x15.1mm, that it almost seems like a toy phone – something you...
Buying Guide: 10 laptops you can buy for the price of a Chromebook
By TechRadar, published 19-07-2011
While Samsung's Google Chromebook is an interesting piece of tech, it's not for everyone. Its heavily-modified Linux-based operating system may run like Usain Bolt on with the wind behind him, but if you find yourself without an internet connection it's a £350 lump of useless plastic. And, unless Angry Birds is your cup of tea, you can forget about playing games on it. So we've put on our technological Barbour jacket and used our cyberdog to herd 10 of the best Chromebook alternatives into the digital pen of TechRadar. They all come in at a similar price, and, as we found, you can get a lot for your money. You can read our Samsung Chromebook review, too. 1. HP Pavilion DM1 - £349One of our chief complaints with the Chromebook is its plasticky, Fisher Price-esque feel and finish. If you'r...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 16-07-2011
In this week's top reviews we've reviewed several new cameras including the PowerShot A3200 IS and A800 from Canon as well as the latest PEN from Olympus. We've also looked at a high-performance Medion Core i7 laptop as well as the new super slim Lenovo X1. Canon PowerShot A800 reviewIt's budget compact season in the world of Japanese giant, Canon! The latest snazzy snapper to hop off the cheap train is the Canon PowerShot A800. The A800 is Canon's entry-level compact camera, and as you'd expect for 60 quid, it's a no-frills affair. No-frills doesn't necessarily mean dumbed-down, however, and there's actually quite a lot to like about this device. Indeed, the specifications belie the bargain-bucket price and include a 10-megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom, Digic III processor and Smart Auto...
Review: Lenovo ThinkPad X1
By TechRadar, published 15-07-2011
Lenovo is well known for its ThinkPad range, a collection of rather serious-looking business laptops that often do their job in an efficient, if unexciting, manner. When we first laid hands on the Lenovo ThinkPad X1, we were definitely impressed. The conventional plain black design remains, but the firm body measures just 27mm at its thickest point and weighs a mere 1.8kg, making it effortlessly portable. This is also one of the most rugged ultra-portables we've seen. Sure, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 lacks the immediate beauty of the Samsung 9 Series or Apple MacBook Air, but it's solidly built in all areas, from the impressively tough lid to the rubberised frame. We're a sucker for rubber, which helps with grip and means no pesky fingerprints. Unlike the fragile-feeling Sony SB Series, we're ...
Updated: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 07-12-2011
The iPad 2 is out, and the rumour factory's already moved on: it's predicting iPad 3 specifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?Read on to find out. But first, our colleagues at T3.com have rounded up the latest rumours in the iPad 3 video below:iPad 3 release dateThis is the biggest rumour of all: an iPad 3 mere months after the iPad 2. An unnamed Apple employee says that the iPad 2 was a bit of a rush job, and "the third generation iPad is the one to make a song and dance about."Respected Apple watcher John Gruber added fuel to that particular fire by strongly hinting that the iPad 3 release date will be in...
Buying Guide: Mac or iPad: which is right for you?
By TechRadar, published 07-11-2011
Back in 2008, Apple was getting a lot of flack for not launching a cheap netbook. With the recession starting to bite, netbook sales were booming, but Steve Jobs, Apple CEO, seemed unimpressed. "The market is just getting started – we'll see how it goes," he said in his characteristically enigmatic style. Then, after a long period of inactivity, Apple launched the iPad, and now nobody is talking about netbooks anymore. Tablets are the device du jour that everybody wants to own. This month AppleInsider.com reported on speculation that Apple will sell between 40 million and 45 million iPads in 2011. This staggering figure was revealed to analyst Brian White in meetings with component suppliers during a tech trip with Ticonderoga Securities to China and Taiwan.That's a lot of sales for a de...
Buying Guide: Tablet buying guide: 10 things to look for
By TechRadar, published 07-09-2011
With more tablets arriving on the market, how do you choose which is best for you? Here's our quick and easy guide to choosing your perfect tablet.1. What operating system does it run? There are various different operating systems available for tablets. By far the most popular is iOS - the Apple option found on the iPad and iPhone. Many of the tablets due out during 2011 will run Android 3.0 - a new purpose-built version of the Google-backed operating system found on many phones. See our article What is Android? for more.Other operating systems are on tablets from Blackberry and HP. Although there are some tablets that run Microsoft's Windows 7, this operating system isn't specially designed for tablet use but Windows 8 is looking increasingly tablet-friendly. For more on tablet operating ...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 07-09-2011
The Optimus 3D is the first smartphone to launch with a "glasses-free" 3D display and we've reviewed it this week on TechRadar. The phone enables you to take still photos and record videos in full 3D, then play them back in 3D on the phone's 4.3-inch display. Also this week. we've brought you our initial verdict on Google's social networking offering, Google+, as well as reviewed the Nokia E6 and the webOS-toting HP TouchPad tablet. LG Optimus 3D review While 3D has yet to win the hearts and minds of the general public, the hot 3D products are still hitting the high street thick and fast. The latest wave of 3D products is coming in the form of glasses-free 3D mobile devices. LG's Optimus 3D is one of these very gadgets, and comes packing dual-core innards and the ability to not only show 3...
Sony still most valued brand in Asia
By GameSpot, published 07-07-2011
Recent survey states PlayStation creator still revered in region despite April outage. Sony has been knee-deep in problems this year, in part due to the recent PlayStation Network outage in April. But despite the company's $3.2 billion loss over the last fiscal year and over 100 million PlayStation user accounts compromised, the company is still ranked as the most valued brand in Asia. Japan's PSN service is now fully up and running. According to the recent Campaign 2011 Top 1000 Asia-Pacific Brands survey done by global market research firm TNS (reported on Wall Street Journal), the Asian market puts great value in the Japanese brand. This has helped Sony keep the top spot on the survey despite the presence of luxury brand items and Asia's growing ...
Review: Dell XPS 15z
By TechRadar, published 29-06-2011
Here at TechRadar, we had some serious geek chills when we reviewed the Dell XPS 15. Combining powerful Intel Core performance with a slick customisable body, beautiful screen and excellent usability, we defy anyone not to enjoy the impressive computing experience it offers.So when Dell came to our office with the shiny new XPS 15z, we immediately had to don the waterproof pants. The stakes have been upped with a surprisingly slender chassis, but Dell hasn't made any sacrifices in terms of performance, thanks to a second generation Sandy Bridge Core i7 CPU ably backed up by 8GB of RAM.Just a quick glance at the gorgeous design and it's obvious that the Dell XPS 15z is a special laptop. A sleek brushed metal design has been used throughout the £899 PC, with a darker tint to the interior. G...
Samsung moves to block iPad, iPhone imports
By TechRadar, published 29-06-2011
Samsung has filed a complaint with the International Trade Commission in an attempt to halt the import of iPhone and iPad devices in to the US. It's a major move in the ongoing Apple/Samsung legal spat, which sees each accuse the other of infringing patents relating to their products. Samsung has been ordered to pony up some of its unreleased handsets for Apple's examination, while its reciprocal request to see the iPhone 5 and iPad 3 early was turned down by Judge Lucy Koh.My dad's bigger than your dadSince then, Apple has filed another complaint in Samsung's native South Korea and has also reportedly begun looking to alternative components suppliers, particularly for its mobile device processors. But our American friends should not start panic buying Apple goods just yet; although the IT...
3D gaming: what the future holds
By TechRadar, published 29-06-2011
Where next for stereoscopic 3D gaming? And, by extension, what is that first properly 3D game - that title that will be the benchmark for all the subsequent 3D games to follow - going to be like?These are vital, timely questions for hardcore gamers and games developers alike, as a familiar haze of cynical disinterestedness settles over the first batch of 3D games on PC and PlayStation 3.Indeed, a recent report claims that, despite the concerted push from the TV and display industry to leverage 3D as an added-value feature on your new telly or PC monitor, many users will still rarely watch or play with 3D content in future.Informa Telecoms & Media claims that, despite 3D soon set to become a default feature on our TVs and PC monitors, 3D TV will not be a mainstream success, with less than h...
Review: eMachines G627-202G25Mi
By TechRadar, published 27-06-2011
Californian company eMachines was taken over last decade by Acer, but the brand is still used for entry-level laptops. The eMachines G627-202G25Mi has some strong points, such as an excellent screen, but performance and portability lag far behind the competition.With a massive 17.3-inch screen and a hulking chassis that's 44mm thick, this is a big laptop, thicker than the 17.3-inch Toshiba Satellite C670D. At 2.8kg, it's also heavy, and best left on a desk at home.That said, the eMachines G627-202G25Mi is a decent-looking laptop and solidly built, except for a little flex around the palmrests. The keyboard is a good size, despite not stretching the width of the chassis, and the firm typing action makes it comfortable to work on all day. We expected a larger touchpad, but at least it's resp...
Review: Acer Aspire 5741Z
By TechRadar, published 27-06-2011
Acer is one of the most prolific laptop manufacturers and its Aspire range boasts everything from budget portables to the most powerful multimedia monsters. The Aspire 5741Z is the former, a smart and surprisingly powerful entry-level laptop.Budget machines make some tough compromises to cut costs, and one of the first casualties is often performance. However, while the Acer's Pentium P6000 processor has been around a while, it's extremely powerful. We found we could browse the web, play music and run various applications all at once, with only the occasional slowdown.The Acer Aspire 5741Z also scored highly in our graphical benchmark tests. There's no dedicated graphics card, with the processor handling images instead, but we were highly impressed to find we could watch Full HD video and ...
Review: Advent Zuni
By TechRadar, published 27-06-2011
With tablets taking over the world, the humble netbook has been kicked aside like an unpopular Christmas present. This isn't to say that they're obsolete, as they're still a cheap and portable means of accessing the internet and your Office applications, but the Advent Zuni stumbles at a vital hurdle.The main problem is battery life. We've tested a lot of netbooks in our time, and models such as the Dell Inspiron Mini make us expect them to run for at least five hours between charges – preferably longer. However, the Advent Zuni gave up after just 103 minutes of use. That's worse than most high-powered gaming laptops.It's a real shame, as the slim and light build is easily transportable. The red chassis won't win any design awards, but it's tough enough to take a few knocks. However, we ...
Review: Fujitsu Lifebook P701
By TechRadar, published 26-06-2011
The Fujitsu Lifebook P701 is the latest addition to Fujitsu's P-Series ultra-portable range and runs on an Intel Core i3 2301M processor. Aimed at the business user, the Lifebook P701 comes pre-loaded with Windows 7 Professional and Microsoft Office. A fingerprint scanner ensures your business documents remain private.The Lifebook P701 has an unassuming black and silver design that suits the office environment well. The 12.1-inch TFT screen has a matt finish, meaning no irritating reflections when working in bright light conditions. The smaller screen, low weight and briefcase-friendly dimensions (283 x 229 x 33mm) mean hours spent on the train can be put to good use.Small keyboardThe compact keyboard might be a little cramped for anyone with large hands, but we found it only took a matter...
Review: HP Pavilion dm1-3100sa
By TechRadar, published 26-06-2011
For many people searching for their perfect laptop, portability is a key factor. If you need something to entertain or keep you productive on the daily commute, you'll want a machine that's slim, light and has a great battery life. The HP Pavilion dm1-3100sa, at £349, ticks all three boxes, and comes highly recommended.At just 1.6kg, this is an ultra-portable laptop that can be effortlessly carried around all day. The 30mm chassis is also slender and compact, so will fit in almost any bag or briefcase with ease – making it perfect for regular travellers. You might be travelling without access to a plug socket, but we browsed the web while listening to music for five hours before the battery finally died.The brushed metal chassis feels solid enough to absorb any knocks it might take, whi...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 25-06-2011
This week we got our hands on the Nokia N9, the first MeeGo handset from Nokia, and quite possibly the last.We also spent some time looking at HTC's Android-toting Salsa, while in the TV world we sat down to watch the rather excellent Sharp LC-46LE831E and the Panasonic TX-P55VT30B.Read on for this week's hottest reviews on TechRadar.Hands on: Nokia N9 reviewThe N9 is the first MeeGo smartphone from Nokia and so far we think it's a rather lovely piece of kit. The MeeGo 1.2 iteration on the Nokia N9 is a real departure from the maddening confusion of Symbian, with the 1GHz ARM Cortex-A8 OMAP 3630 processor, PowerVR SGX530 graphics and 1GB of RAM all working together to deliver a fluid response under the finger. This is how a phone is supposed to work, with a rapid response to swiping and mo...
Review: Samsung Chromebook
By TechRadar, published 24-06-2011
Cloud computing is a term we've heard with increasing frequency recently.It's the idea that our usual computing tasks are not run by the hardware in our computers, but instead on powerful servers connected to your machine via the internet.Operating systems on netbooks and laptops are still firmly tethered to the hardware, with Windows 7 and Linux distros being the OSes of choice. Into this fray comes Google's Chrome OS, an operating system designed to drag laptops and netbooks into the cloud. The machines that run Chrome OS are known as Chromebooks, and Samsung is ahead of the pack by releasing the first Chromebook in the UK – the Samsung Chromebook Series 5.For more information on what Chrome OS is all about, check out our guide: Google Chromebooks - what you need to know.As the first o...
Exclusive: Google: Chromebooks will succeed where Linux netbooks failed
By TechRadar, published 23-06-2011
Why would you wait for over a minute for your Windows 7 PC to boot up if all you want to do is check your email and catch up on world news?That's the key question that Google is hoping will persuade even tech-savvy punters to splash the cash and buy a 'boots in 10 seconds and resumes instantly from sleep' Chromebook this summer.In doing so, Google hopes to break the Microsoft-Apple stranglehold on home computing that has seen only two major operating systems succeed in 30 years.The stats don't lie - most of us spend all our computing time within a web browser, and Google's philosophy for it's browser-based Chrome OS is that you shouldn't need to tinker with your laptop, you shouldn't need to maintain it or change settings, you should simply 'use' it.TechRadar spoke to Sundar Pichai, senior...
Review: Sony VAIO VPC-F21Z1E
By TechRadar, published 21-06-2011
Alright, fancypants. You want a laptop of luxury, but you don't want an Apple MacBook? Not even a 17-inch MacBook Pro? You want 3D but a Zalman 3D monitor isn't for you? Fancy the sort of black plastic slab that your friends can only dream of owning? You want a machine so heavy and precious that taking it out of the house is about as easy as taking a cat for a walk? You've got it in the Sony VAIO VPC-F21Z1E. You've also got an empty wallet and, as we'll discover, a vague sense of disappointment. Clearly you can't have everything.Let's set this up, though: the Sony VAIO VPC-F21Z1E, in culinary terms, is a burger with all the toppings. It's got a Blu-ray drive, it's got USB 3.0 support, it's got a light-up chiclet keyboard and, most importantly, it's got a 16-inch screen capable of stereosco...
Review: Toshiba Satellite P755-113
By TechRadar, published 21-06-2011
Things are moving fast in mobile gaming right now. For the traditional laptop to stay relevant in these tablet-filled times, it has to offer something special to offset the decreased mobility compared to its touchscreen foe. The easiest area to exploit is raw power, specifically graphics. Fruit Ninja is all well and good on an Apple iPad 2, but what if you want to play the latest DirectX 11 games on the go?Enter Toshiba's Satellite P775-113. Under the bonnet, an Nvidia GT 540M handles the pixel pushing, which spells playable frame rates in graphically demanding DX11 titles. It's the latest in a new breed of vaguely affordable gaming PCs making the most out of rapidly advancing mobile technology. And at this price point, things are starting to get crowded. Medion's Erazer X6811 has impressi...
Review: Toshiba Satellite C670D
By TechRadar, published 21-06-2011
While the popularity of slim and portable tablets such as the Apple iPad 2 and Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 indicate a swing towards smaller computers, Toshiba is looking to buck the trend with the release of its Satellite C670D. This laptop, as with its stable mate the Toshiba Satellite C670, offers a relatively huge 17.3-inch screen, capable of resolutions up to 1600 x 900. This isn't a laptop that's concerned with being light – either in terms of weight or power. The Toshiba Satellite C670D has been built to offer the power of a desktop PC in the shape of a laptop. Heavy-duty laptops such as the Dell Adamo XPS can cost up to £800, and you can easily spend up to £2,000 on a laptop if you want the fastest performance possible.The Toshiba Satellite C670D offers fast, but not cutting edge, c...
Explained: Graphene: the miracle material explained
By TechRadar, published 21-06-2011
Graphene may turn out to be the Lady Gaga of materials: it seems to have come from nowhere, everybody's talking about it, and before long it's going to be absolutely everywhere. Although the material has been around for a while in concept, the first commercial products based on the material are due in the next few years - it's an incredibly lightweight and resistant material.Graphene could lead to rollable phones, thousand-gigahertz processors and other miraculous things, and in a fairly short space of time it could be as ubiquitous as plastic. So what on Earth is it?Graphene comes from graphiteGraphene comes from graphite, which means it's made from carbon atoms. It's two-dimensional rather than three-dimensional: a sheet of graphene is a grid of carbon atoms that's just one atom thick. N...
Updated: 14 best Android tablets in the world
By TechRadar, published 20-06-2011
Our list of the best Android tablets in the world - regularly updatedIf you're looking for a tablet and don't fancy an iPad, then Android is the way to go.There are other options out there; Windows 7 tablets are available, the BlackBerry PlayBook is on sale now and the HP TouchPad is coming soon. But Android 3.0 is currently the main OS rival to the iPad, and the products are creeping onto the shelves one by one.We've gone from zero Android tablets to stacks of the things in a very short space of time, and inevitably some are better than others.Some have ten-inch screens, others seven, and there are big differences in battery life, processing power and on-board RAM. So which tablets are the most tempting? Let's find out.1. Asus Eee Pad TransformerBest Android tablet for: replacing your net...
Review: Samsung NC110
By TechRadar, published 20-06-2011
What do you do when you want to catch the eye of people torn between the growing domination of tablets such as the Apple iPad 2 or Motorola Xoom and a much more user-friendly, but far less trendy, netbook? You bring out a netbook that's so cheap you can't possibly pass it by – and that's exactly what Samsung has done with its NC110.It's a real foot in the door of the market at £236 – cheaper than the likes of the Asus Eee PC 1018P, the Packard Bell Dot SE or even the Acer Aspire One 522. In fact, it's the cheapest netbook around.But does that price mean it's a bag of bolts? Actually no, not in the slightest. One of the most surprising things about the Samsung NC110 is that it's been superbly put together and the materials are of a high grade. You honestly wouldn't be able to tell the ...
Updated: Samsung Chromebook: 12 things you need to know
By TechRadar, published 20-06-2011
Samsung has announced the Series 5 Chromebook – a thin, 12.1 inch Chrome OS laptop.Google's Chrome OS is the company's take on a cloud-centric operating system that will compete with Windows, primarily in the mobile computing market.Hands on: Google Chromebook reviewSamsung's Chromebook will be one of the first Chrome OS devices for the UK market, and TechRadar has gathered together the early facts about the Chromebook to give you a bit of an insight into the new Chrome OS netbook. 1. Samsung Chromebook operating systemThe first and most notable thing about the Chromebook is that – rather unsurprisingly – it runs Chrome OS, an operating system made by Google that is completely based around its Chrome browser. There's no desktop as such, just a browser window.Chrome OS is designed to ...
BBC: tablet is becoming second TV in the home
By TechRadar, published 17-06-2011
The BBC's new director of future media, Ralph Rivera, has suggested that the tablet is becoming a second PC in the home, and that the broadcast giant's duty is to deliver content on every screen possible. Speaking at a BBC Online press briefing, with TechRadar in attendance, Rivera brought up what Jobs has termed a 'post-PC era'. "We are seeing this post-PC era more and more now and it is an opportunity to deliver our experience on whichever piece of glass [the consumer] chooses," he said."The iPlayer is an excellent example of being on four screens, it is already on 200 devices.The number of streams shows that the computer is the majority, but the growth is in the device segment."The tablet is becoming a second television in the home." Big riseThe statistics Rivera showed off suggested th...
Updated: Top 200 best iPad apps 2011
By TechRadar, published 15-06-2011
Whether you have an iPad or iPad 2 that means deciding which apps you should purchase and download right away.We tested the launch apps when the first iPad became available in the US and we ranked them below based on how they test out, if they make use of the larger screen, and any added perks.iPad review (Wi-Fi version)iPad 3G reviewiPad 2 reviewWhen the iPad became available in the UK, we trawled the UK App Store to pick our favourite free iPad apps, paid-for iPad apps, free iPad games and paid-for iPad games. You'll find links to all those round-ups at the end of this article.1. Kindle for iPadWhy list a free e-book reader as the top pick when Apple's own iBook is included? Ask anyone who owns a Kindle - with this free app, you can download every book and magazine you have ever purchase...
Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
By TechRadar, published 15-06-2011
Welcome to the top spot, Samsung.The outstanding Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 Honeycomb tablet is lighter and a hair thinner than the Apple iPad 2, and has a smaller footprint than either the Motorola Xoom or the Acer Iconia Tab A500, which are heavier and bulkier than most tablets.Other than a paltry app selection, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is a major contender.We reviewed the short-lived Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V already, but that thicker and heavier device has since been discontinued (It looked as if Vodafone might pick up the 10.1V tab but it is now waiting to release the newer 10.1 model). The only other important players in the tablet market, are the brilliant 10.1-inch Asus Eee Pad Transformer as well as the BlackBerry PlayBook and the HTC Flyer, which are both so-so 7-inch models.Oh, a...
Apple accuses Samsung of harassment over iPhone 5 demands
By TechRadar, published 14-06-2011
Apple has accused Samsung of trying to harass it, as the Korean company demands to see top secret future iPhone and iPad devices including the iPhone 5 and iPad 3. The demands come as part of Apple and Samsung's ongoing patent and trademark infringement spat, which has already seen a judge force Samsung to show its announced but unreleased smartphone stock to the Cupertino crew.Apple may have conceded defeat in one patent case today, but it's certainly not letting another get away from it with relations between Samsung and Apple reportedly deteriorating further. Sincerest form of flatteryIt does seem strange that Samsung would have any grounds to demand future Apple products, given that the case seeks to determine whether or not Samsung's Galaxy smartphone and tablet range have been a litt...
Buying Guide: What's the best Core i7 laptop?
By TechRadar, published 13-06-2011
Intel's Core i3 and Core i5 processors provide ample power for the price. But when it comes to getting the most power for your money, nothing comes close to Intel's high-performance Core i7 processors, especially in the latest Sandy Bridge versions. The Core i7 has finally blurred the lines between laptop and desktop PCs and, in many cases, the prices are highly affordable.What's the best Core i3 laptop?To help you choose the right machine for your needs, we've brought together four of the best Core i7-powered laptops, at prices to suit all budgets.What's the best Core i5 laptop?Offering staggering performance and features ideal for the whole family, you won't fi nd a more powerful range of consumer laptops. 1. MSI CX640-018UK - £512The combination of excellent performance, long battery l...
In Depth: What's inside your iPad? Tablet tech explained
By TechRadar, published 13-06-2011
What makes one tablet a winner and another a bucket of bolts? Let's start with a story. Once upon a time, there was a little English company called Acorn Computers. Through the early 1980s, it had quite a bit of success with an 8-bit home computer named the BBC Micro. You may remember it. For a replacement, Acorn decided that none of the then-available processors - such as the Motorola 68000 and Intel 80286 - were suitable. So it decided to make its own, as you do. The year was 1985 and Acorn developed a 25,000 transistor RISC processor called the ARM v1. It used it to power the now defunct Archimedes computer, and that same ARM core - with a few enhancements - is what now powers more than 75 per cent of all embedded 32-bit devices made in the 21st century, 90 per cent of all mobiles in th...
Review: Vodafone Smart
By TechRadar, published 06-07-2011
Vodafone's Smart is one of the most affordable Android devices on the market. Certainly, at £70 on pay as you go, it is attractively priced. But does it live up to what Android can offer? A low price and good value for money aren't the same thing. For all those of you who were expecting us to make the comparison at some point let's get it out of the way. The obvious comparison is with the Orange San Francisco. We simply loved that £99 Android smartphone. Other low-cost Android options include something like the Motorola Flipout though if you can stretch the budget you could go for something like the HTC Wildfire, currently around £129 SIM-free.So, the Vodafone Smart enters crowded territory. Vodafone has tried to differentiate things by letting you create custom backplates for £10 each...
WWDC 2011: iPhone 5 release date set for autumn 2011?
By TechRadar, published 06-06-2011
Steve Jobs just wrapped up his WWDC 2011 keynote speech, with nary a mention of any hardware. The fact that Apple didn't announce an iPhone 5 or iPhone 4S today makes a September release date seem ever-more likely. iOS 5, which was revealed today, was also given the vague release date of 'this fall' (autumn) – we've put two and two together and come out with September; so will iOS 5 launch with the iPhone 5?SighIt's not that we were exactly expecting a new iPhone given the multitude of leaks and rumours suggesting that we wouldn't see such a thing this WWDC, but we're still a little bit disappointed. Still, the iOS 5 features will make the iPhone 4 (and iPhone 3GS, would you believe) feel like a new phone, however, bringing iMessage, new notifications, integrated Twitter support and an i...
WWDC 2011: Apple iOS 5 coming to iPhone 3GS and older iPads
By TechRadar, published 06-06-2011
Apple has confirmed that the new version of its software, iOS 5, will run across the iPhone 3GS, iPod touch third and fourth gen and both the iPad 2 and the original.The SDK actually leaked out to the developer community before the official WWDC announcement, giving some users a surprise peak at what was to come.And the good news is that the 3GS will still be keeping up with the iPhoneses as Apple confirmed that the new software will be available to download for the legacy device.Getting in on the good stuffThe iPad 2 and iPad are both getting the upgrade to the new software, as well as the recent iPod touch models.This means features like the split screen keyboards for iPads, over the air software updates and tabbed Safari browsing are all coming to the legacy models for free.However, you...
Early View: Samsung Chromebook vs Acer Chromebook
By TechRadar, published 30-05-2011
The Google Chromebook UK release date is 15 June, when the first units go on sale. Google intends Chromebooks to be a simpler way of browsing the web – the OS is essentially just the Google Chrome browser itself, with no desktop, taskbar or separate app browser. It's a completely cloud based computer and is dependent on being connected to the internet to work properly. The bonus of this is that your files are always updates as is the Chrome OS used on Chromebooks – the software will always be updated automatically. It's certainly a limited OS but, depending on what you use a laptop or a tablet for, it might be enough. However, a Chromebook is no workhorse - it's very much in the netbook category though, as you'll hear, the pricing is surprisingly high. You can check out our Hands on: G...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 28-05-2011
This week, we've been pouring over one of the latest Honeycomb tablets to hit UK shores - the Acer Iconia Tab A500.Although more expensive than the iPad 2, it performed well in our tests - read the review for more. We've also spent time looking at a new Freeview HD and Blu-ray player as well as a new plasma from Panasonic. Read on for more on all the latest reviews we've posted this week on TechRadar. Acer Iconia Tab A500 Everyone in tech is talking about Android tablets. Which is the best? How good is Honeycomb? Can Android tablets overtake the iPad in sales? Have you actually seen one in the wild though? Thought not. Android tablet sales are off to a sluggish start to say the least but it's only a matter of time before things pick up. The Eee Pad Transformer is being held back by a lack ...
Updated: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 26-05-2011
The iPad 2 is out, and the rumour factory's already moved on: it's predicting iPad 3 specifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?First, our colleagues at T3.com have rounded up the latest rumours in the iPad 3 video below:iPad 3 release dateThis is the biggest rumour of all: an iPad 3 mere months after the iPad 2. An unnamed Apple employee says that the iPad 2 was a bit of a rush job, and "the third generation iPad is the one to make a song and dance about."Respected Apple watcher John Gruber added fuel to that particular fire by strongly hinting that the iPad 3 release date will be in September 2011.Gruber, w...
Review: Acer Iconia Tab A500
By TechRadar, published 26-05-2011
In the contest to replace your laptop – and maybe even your TV – Android 3.0 tablets such as the Motorola Xoom are ganging up on the Apple iPad 2 by sheer quantity. We absolutely thrilled over the Asus Eee Pad Transformer, for example. Now it's time for the Acer Iconia Tab A500's day in the sun.In many ways, this is all about the operating system, so we'll admit that the differences between the three main Android 3.0 tabs are marginal at best. You have to choose your OS poison wisely – the iPad 2 is better for music, movies and games, and it has better quality apps and more of them. Meanwhile, the BlackBerry PlayBook is more secure than the competition, has real multi-tasking and even a more fluid interface for controlling your apps (er, all four of them). Android 3.0 Honeycomb table...
HTC Puccini 10-inch tablet primed for summer release?
By TechRadar, published 26-05-2011
HTC is looking to swiftly follow up the launch of its 7-inch HTC Flyer tablet, with a 10-inch model codenamed Puccini.This is according to Digitimes, which has re-confirmed previous leaks with word that HTC has ramped up production of the 10.1-inch tablet readying it for a summer release.The tablet is said to be powered by a Qualcomm MSM8660 1.5GHz processor and will be running Android Honeycomb. It looks like HTC will be sticking with its tried and tested stylus, dubbed HTC Scribe, as the HTC Puccini screen is said to be both capacitive and resistive.Tablet talkDigitimes also reported that its 10.1-inch panels are being created by AU Optronics (AUO) and Wintek.The 7-inch HTC Flyer was given a solid three stars by TechRadar – where we praised its build quality but were put off by its mas...
French Open tennis in 3D: tech revealed
By TechRadar, published 24-05-2011
Panasonic has announced that its cameras are being used to film the entire French Open in 3D – something it is doing in collaboration with Eurosport.In the UK, Virgin Media announced that it is showing the 3D matches but we have been in the dark over what kit is being used at Roland Garros.Until now: Panasonic has revealed just what set-up it is using to deliver the 3D content.At the heart of it is Panasonic's latest 3D camcorder, the upcoming AG-3DP1, which is being used to broadcast live for the first time.This is being used with a newly developed 17x twin zoom lens system.Alongside this is a AG-3DA1 Camera Recorder, a side-by-side rig with two AK-HC1800 box cameras, six AV-HS450 Multi-format live switchers, P2 Mobile-Memory Card Portable Recorder/Player, BT-3DL2550 3D production monit...
Review: Samsung RC710
By TechRadar, published 24-05-2011
The Samsung RC710 is a large family laptop and an excellent option for staying connected online. 802.11n Wi-Fi is supported for connecting to wireless networks, which is currently the fastest wireless networking standard available. If you have Wi-Fi at home, you can enjoy superfast networking speeds on your favourite social networking sites. If you don't have Wi-Fi, you can use Gigabit Ethernet to connect to the internet via a cable instead. Although this laptop opts for a previous generation Intel Core i5 480M processor instead of the latest Sandy Bridge technology, there's still enough power for all the family to run their applications. You can comfortably multi-task with creative applications, media players and other software, with no noticeable slowdown. The 6144MB of memory helps cons...
Review: Sony VAIO VPC-EB4L9E/BQ
By TechRadar, published 24-05-2011
Sony is a household name and its VAIO laptops have long been popular with consumers. The VAIO VPC-EB4L9E/BQ is another well-designed machine that ticks lots of boxes, making it an excellent choice for any family. An all-white chassis proves a standout feature, although the subtle glitter effect in the palmrests may be a step too far. Still, the chassis is reassuringly solid in all areas except near the DVD drive. The 15.6-inch screen tilts back to a reasonable degree and has good viewing angles, so you won't be squinting when the VAIO is sat on your lap. Photos and movies are colourfully recreated and the screen is one of the brightest in the group. If you plan on watching films on your laptop, the built-in speakers pack a surprising amount of power. Unfortunately, the quality drops at its...
Review: MSI CX640-018UK
By TechRadar, published 24-05-2011
MSI manufactures everything from individual computer chips to full laptops and the CX640-018UK is a prime example of excellent components combining to form a great all round machine. Only a slight usability issue detracts from an excellent experience. Intel's Sandy Bridge appears in the form of the Intel Core i7 2410M and provides excellent performance, as with the Dell Inspiron 15R and Lenovo G570. In fact, the MSI was only narrowly beaten by the Lenovo in our benchmarking tests, and this laptop can easily handle everything you throw at it. Even when multi-tasking with several applications, there's no slowdown. A dedicated Nvidia GT 540M graphics card handles photo and video editing, and you can play the latest games if you turn down the graphical detail. BenchmarksBattery life: 333 minut...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 21-05-2011
This week's reviews include HTC's tablet as well as the new 2011 iMac lineup.The HTC Flyer was announced at Mobile World Congress when it impressed, but how does it stand up to the iPad 2 and plethora of Android 3.0 devices?The new 21.5 and 27-inch iMacs offer awesome power, but do they give you more power than you need? We've also looked at an epic 50-inch plasma TV from Panasonic and much more. Read on to find out more. HTC Flyer reviewNow that Android is a major tablet OS, with Android 3.0 appearing on the likes of the Motorola Xoom and Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V, HTC is still staying separate from the crowd. The most notable change from the norm is the 7-inch screen and the touchscreen stylus, known officially as the Magic Pen. It connects wirelessly to the Flyer, and enables you to anno...
Review: Acer Aspire 5750G
By TechRadar, published 18-05-2011
We've seen Sandy Bridge laptops emerge from almost every major manufacturer since Intel unveiled its second generation processor earlier this year. While these laptops have differed wildly in look and size, from the tiny Samsung 9000S to the hulking Dell XPS 17, we've found that performance is consistently excellent.Now it's Acer's turn to join the Sandy Bridge club, with the Aspire 5750G. It looks like a typical Acer machine on the outside, with the Taiwanese giant's standard design in place, but inside it's brimming with power. Best of all, the £680 asking price is rather low considering the tight specs. If you're a student with high demands, or need a laptop that'll suit the whole family, this is a great, affordable option.With a pleasant blue finish to the lid and palmrests, the Aspir...
Updated: Top 20 best tablet PC iPad alternatives
By TechRadar, published 17-05-2011
This year is going to be the year of the touchscreen tablet, of that there can be no doubt.While tablet PCs have been around for yonks, only now are they becoming the desirable, usable and functional devices that we've always wanted them to be – and it's about time too.The iPad is currently the most obvious example of how tablets are going mainstream, but that's not to say that all tablets released from now on are guaranteed to be super awesome. Indeed there are some real stinkers out there – remember the Toshiba Folio 100?So allow us to walk you through the best tablets currently on sale, along with the sexy tablets that are set to tickle your fingertips later in 2011.Asus Eee Pad TransformerUK release date: Out nowSpecs: Android 3.0, Nvidia Tegra 2 dual-core CPU, 10.1-inch capacitive...
Updated: Samsung finally rolling out UK Galaxy S Android 2.3 update
By TechRadar, published 16-05-2011
Samsung has announced it will be re-rolling out the Galaxy S Android 2.3 update in the near future.The Korean brand has confirmed it will be bringing the Gingerbread update to theGalaxy Ace, Gio, Fit, Mini and Galaxy Tab as well as the Galaxy S.As many Galaxy S owners might remember, the Android 2.3 update landed last month for Vodafone customers but was halted by Samsung after rumours that parts of the new OS were causing the platform to fail.Back from the deadThe new update is set to come to the UK as one of the first markets in 'mid-May', so we can only assume the upgrade will be landing any moment now.UPDATE: Samsung has got in contact with us to say that the new update will be hitting the UK in 'late May'. It seems the update has been pushed back slightly as a number of users have rep...
Review: HTC Flyer
By TechRadar, published 16-05-2011
HTC has always stood out among the raft of Android phone manufacturers. The company's been partnering with Google since the start, but still forges its own style, which has won it a lot of fans.Now that Android is a major tablet OS, with Android 3.0 appearing on the likes of the Motorola Xoom and Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V, HTC is still staying separate from the crowd.The most notable change from the norm is the 7-inch screen and the touchscreen stylus, known officially as the Magic Pen. It connects wirelessly to the Flyer, and enables you to annotate, highlight and erase in supported apps. It offers a measure of pressure sensitivity (unlike most styluses on capacitive screens), so may pique the interest of artists.Instead of Android 3.0, the Flyer uses Android 2.3.3, skinned with HTC's fami...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 14-05-2011
This week's top reviews include the Asus Eee Pad Transformer - one of the best tablets we've seen so far, running Android 3.0 Honeycomb. We've also reviewed the new HTC Wildfire S - a new breed Android handset that's available on budget tariffs. And then there's the simplicity of passive 3D with the LG 42LW550T. Below we've the details on all these top reviews as well as a full listing of all this week's reviews published across these pages. Asus Eee Pad Transformer review Finally, the Android tablet we've all been waiting for has arrived. While Android 3.0 has been knocking around for months now, viable, available-to-buy tablets have been rarer than a rare thing in a place that doesn't exist. The Transformer is an excellent touchscreen tablet that comes with its own battery-packing keyboa...
No creases on Samsung's latest foldable AMOLED display
By TechRadar, published 13-05-2011
Samsung has created a new touch AMOLED display that can be folded and manipulated without sullying your view with a crease.If you want to have a go at making one yourself, all you'll need are two AMOLED panels, silicone rubber, a glass cover and a modular case for it to sit in.Whack that all together and you should be left with a flexible yet seamless display; at least, you should if you're an incredibly clever Samsung engineer working at the Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology in South Korea.Testing testing, one twoTesting the prototype, Samsung folded it 100,000 (we feel for the poor experience kid that got lumbered with that job), and found that the display's brightness dropped by a barely-visible 6 per cent at the centre where the fold occurred. The potential for Samsung here is h...
Samsung Chromebook: Official video arrives
By TechRadar, published 13-05-2011
An official video has arrived for the Samsung Chromebook, with the first Chrome OS notebook shown off by the Korean electronics giant. The Samsung Chromebook has quickly jumped onto our watch list for 2011 tech – with the thin and light Chrome OS laptop bringing a host of exciting features. The 12.1 inch screen and Intel Atom dual-core processor put this right on the boundary between a laptop and netbook, but it is the operating system that most marks it out as a little bit special. Chrome OSThat's because the Chromebook runs Google's Chrome OS – an operating system that it designed to take advantage of the cloud rather than keeping all of your data and programs on your hard drive. You can watch the official video, introducing some of the features including the sub 10 second boot time ...
Gary Marshall: What's the point of a Chromebook?
By TechRadar, published 05-12-2011
Google's Chromebooks are just weeks away, which is exciting news for two kinds of people: corporate IT administrators and hermits who've been in a cave for two years.Is anyone else excited? I'm not.I've got nothing against Google – it's my default search engine and Chrome is my default browser – but I just don't see the point in a Chromebook. Given the choice between a netbook that runs Chrome and nothing else and a netbook that costs less, runs Windows 7 and will happily run the Chrome browser – which, so far, seems faster than the Chrome OS does – I'd go for the latter.Hands on: Google Chromebook reviewAh, says Samsung. "With nothing stored directly on the Series 5, malicious spyware, trojans and viruses are a thing of the past." They're a thing of the past on my Windows 7 PC too...
Samsung Chromebook: 12 things you need to know
By TechRadar, published 05-12-2011
Samsung has announced the Series 5 Chromebook – a thin, 12.1 inch Chrome OS laptop.Google's Chrome OS is the company's take on a cloud-centric operating system that will compete with Windows, primarily in the mobile computing market.Hands on: Google Chromebook reviewSamsung's Chromebook will be one of the first Chrome OS devices for the UK market, and TechRadar has gathered together the early facts about the Chromebook to give you a bit of an insight into the new Chrome OS netbook. 1. Samsung Chromebook operating systemThe first and most notable thing about the Chromebook is that – rather unsurprisingly – it runs Chrome OS, an operating system made by Google that is completely based around its Chrome browser. There's no desktop as such, just a browser window.Chrome OS is designed to ...
Review: Panasonic DMP-BDT110
By TechRadar, published 05-12-2011
The Panasonic DMP-BDT110 3D Blu-ray player is the 'lite' version of the DMP-BDT310, boasting many of the same features but with a few nips and tucks to get the price down a bit (by £70, to be precise). It's actually two rungs down the range ladder from the DMP-BDT310 – sitting between them is the DMP-BDT210, which is practically identical to the BDT310 in everything but connections. The DMP-BDT110, on the other hand, has some much more obvious omissions.Those missing features are things that you could file under 'luxuries' though – most of the big new features and core Blu-ray tricks for everyday viewing are still present and correct.All three decks look roughly the same, with their moody black finish and the sort of slimline dimensions to make a cover girl green with envy. The casing...
ViewSonic ViewPad 7x Honeycomb tablet incoming?
By TechRadar, published 05-12-2011
ViewSonic could be about to unleash a tiny Honeycomb terror in the form of a 7-inch tablet dubbed the ViewPad 7x. Set to be unveiled at Computex at the end of May, according to 'reliable sources' speaking to Pocket-Lint, the tablet will be the first 7-inch Honeycomb slate.Complete with dual-core Nvidia Tegra 2 processor, dual camera action (one front-, one rear-mounted), DLNA and HDMI-out, HSPA+, the ViewPad 7x weighs in at just 380g.The new ViewPad is not said to be replacing the existing ViewPad 7, but it's not yet clear if it will launch with Android 3.0 or the newly-announced Android 3.1. Honey, I shrunk the tablet We haven't exactly been caught in a deluge of Honeycomb tablets since its launch earlier this year, with the Motorola Xoom and Asus Eee Transformer the only real options at ...
Review: Asus Eee Pad Transformer
By TechRadar, published 05-10-2011
With every electronics manufacturer in the entire universe looking to release an Android tablet in 2011, individual products are all going to need some kind of unique selling point.This is especially true with Android 3.0 products, because the vast majority of them are all packing near identical innards – namely Nvidia's Tegra 2 dual core CPU platform.The LG Optimus Pad, then, has its 3D camera. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V has its 8MP snapper. And the Android 2.3-toting HTC Flyer comes with its own Sense UI overlay.So it makes perfect sense that Asus - the company that gave birth to the netbook - would seek to position its first Android tablet in a niche it knows well.Ever since the iPad was unleashed on the world like an Apple-scented hurricane in 2010, the humble netbook's days have b...
Buying Guide: Best Intel Core laptops 2011
By TechRadar, published 05-09-2011
Intel may have announced its new Sandy Bridge Intel Core i3, Core, i5 and i7 processors in January. But laptops based on the platform have been slow to emerge - it's only now that we're seeing the results drip slowly into stores. So here's the best of our reviews so far - now you can choose the Sandy Bridge laptop that's right for you. 1. Packard Bell EasyNote TS13This laptop features an updated version of the Core i3-2310M CPU, which offers considerable power on a budget. With 4096MB of DDR3 memory also on board, you can comfortably multi-task with applications.The EasyNote TS13-HR-035 is a great and cheap way of enjoying and editing your media on the move. Performance is strong and the display is satisfyingly vibrant, while usability and a range of useful features are additional highligh...
Review: HP EliteBook 2540p
By TechRadar, published 05-08-2011
HP is currently the world's largest laptop manufacturer. The company produces a broad range of laptops, including consumer machines, but here we take a look at one of their business ultraportables, the excellent EliteBook 2540p. While the laptop may lack the gorgeous design of the Apple MacBook Air and Dell Adamo XPS, this machine is all about performance and portability. As a result, it comes up against the Sony VAIO Z Series. Performance is excellent (just beating the Sony), thanks to the very powerful Intel Core i7 640UM processor. The laptop sailed through all our benchmarking tests and proved to be as powerful as a high-end multimedia machine in everyday performance. If your work requires you to run resource-intensive programs concurrently, this is the machine for you. Graphically thi...
Review: Dell Adamo XPS
By TechRadar, published 05-08-2011
The Dell Adamo XPS was released to great a fanfare a while back courtesy of its slim, high-end design. A year or so on and the laptop has crashed in price, making it a great option for those out to make a (reasonably) affordable style statement. Unfortunately, however, Dell has cut a few corners in the making of this concept machine. Dell has taken a unique approach in the design. To open the laptop you brush a finger over the edge of the lid which then unlocks it. As you lift the screen the keyboard folds out of a recess (flush to the panel) in which it's been parked. The action works well and feels good to use. When open, the keyboard hinge is located at the bottom of the screen, but actually sits high off your desk, causing a wedge-shaped empty space under the laptop. In theory, this sh...
Review: Samsung R540
By TechRadar, published 05-07-2011
Just because a laptop is low cost doesn't mean it has to be light on features, and the Samsung R540 packs some serious hardware into its sub-£399 frame. At the heart of this laptop is an Intel Pentium 2GHz processor which, although still lowly on the scale, outstrips the Celeron that powers the Fujitsu LifeBook A530. There's also 4096MB of memory, double that of the LifeBook, and a 500GB hard drive, again, twice the size. The Samsung's processor came out results in our lab tests, helped hugely by the extra RAM. In real terms, the extra processing power and RAM do wonders for the performance of the Samsung R540. Basic tasks perform noticeably smoother and faster, and you can even stretch to harder tasks like editing standard-definition video. Metallic chic The chassis of the Samsung is sol...
Review: HP Pavilion dv6-3046sa
By TechRadar, published 05-07-2011
Without doubt the HP Pavillion dv6 dv6-3046sa is one of the best looking laptops around and brings a touch of class where others at this price fail. The body is a beautiful textured white, as if adorned in carbon fibre, and offset by smooth black keys. It's an instant head turner and, on closer inspection, doesn't reveal a tacky plastic veneer like the Samsung R540. The dv6 is substantially thinner than the rest of the sub-£399 field and feels a lot more solid as well. Build quality is superb, which helps the keyboard and mouse to feel responsive and sharp. It's this quality that makes the HP stand out from the Samsung R540 and Fujitsu LifeBook A530. Battery life lasted a meagre 218 minutes of constant use, which is average at best, but still gives you over three hours of good use away fr...
This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 05-07-2011
This week saw the UK release of the latest dual-core smartphone - the Motorola Atrix - that can also act as a nettop computer when combined with a keyboard. We give you the full lowdown in our in-depth review.We also spent some time testing out the Panasonic Lumix TZ20, the follow up to the TZ10 - the most popular compact camera in 2010. We've also dispelled some myths about the new Beats by Dr, Dre Solo headphones.Read on for the most popular reviews on TechRadar this weekMotorola Atrix reviewIt's been out Stateside for a couple of moons already, but the Motorola Atrix has now arrived on British shores and it's unique. That's not a word we're able to use very often these days, but the Atrix has edged itself into a niche in the mobile phone world that didn't even exist until now. It's esse...
Review: Fujitsu LifeBook A530
By TechRadar, published 05-06-2011
If you're looking for a recession-busting laptop, the Fujitsu LifeBook A530 will certainly catch your eye. The price tag is pretty tempting and, at just £364, there's really not many cheaper options on the market. If your laptop-buying decision is based purely on price, then the LifeBook A530 is a no brainer, but it goes without saying that there's no such thing as a free lunch and the A530 makes huge sacrifices. These come in the form of processing power, which is key to the amount of tasks your laptop can perform, and the amount it can do simultaneously. At the helm is a dated 2GHz Intel Celeron P4600 processor, which will struggle with anything more taxing than basic web surfing and emailing. This is backed up with a meagre 2048MB of memory, which is quite low by modern standards. Coup...
Review: Acer Aspire Timeline X 3820TZ
By TechRadar, published 05-06-2011
If you take a trip to your local PC superstore and take a look at all the laptops under £399, you'll find that the majority are fat, heavy, plasticky and cumbersome. The Acer Aspire Timeline X3820TZ couldn't be more different, and it's just as portable and solid as it is great value. The Timeline is finished with a solid brushed-metal lid and the same material is also used on the palmrest as well. This gives it a solid feel, reminiscent of a quality ultraportable, but instead of costing in excess of £700, this is available for a mere £380. This 13.3-inch laptop weighs just 1.9kg, something your back will thank you for if you have a long commute. Any 13-inch laptop at this size and price will immediately draw comparisons with netbooks, but let us be clear, there's a huge difference. Firs...
Review: Toshiba NB520-108
By TechRadar, published 05-05-2011
Netbooks aren't usually regarded as multimedia machines, with their tiny speakers, compact screens and lack of power. However, Toshiba's NB520-108 aims to smash this trend by featuring designer speakers from audio experts harman/kardon, and the result is surprisingly good. The Toshiba goes for an understated design with a bevelled dark-brown lid and black interior. We found no flex in any part of the 1.3kg chassis, which thankfully isn't susceptible to picking up dirt or scuff marks. The chunky battery does add a bit of extra width, so this netbook is just as thick as the MSI Wind U160DX, but it still fits into bags without much trouble. Despite an initial scepticism, we were really impressed with this netbook's speakers, which produce a powerful and clear sound. Music sounds great, althou...
Exclusive: Details of first QNX BlackBerry phones revealed
By TechRadar, published 05-05-2011
RIM has given TechRadar some tantalising first details of its likely first QNX-based smartphone product. It's no secret that RIM's plan is to gradually move its smartphone line-up over to the QNX system that the BlackBerry PlayBook already runs.Speaking to TechRadar, Carlo Chiarello, VP of GSM/UMTS business unit at RIM, told us that BlackBerry is already working with prototype models of the new QNX-based phones.PhoneBookWhen asked when we'll see the first QNX BlackBerry phones coming out, Chiarello told us, "The reality is that our teams have done a phenomenal job in such a short period of time to do what they're doing on PlayBook. "That [QNX] experience is going to start to come in to our high tier products. I can't tell you when; I'm not allowed to. But it's absolutely part and parcel of...
iPad 2: One month on
By TechRadar, published 05-04-2011
It's possible to both love and hate something at the same time. Cats for example. You love them because they're cuddly and cute, but you hate them because they urinate on the carpet, claw your curtains and puke on your doorstep.The iPad 2 is a bit like that. It bestows you with the three p's - power, pleasure and prestige - whilst simultaneously holding back the features that could have made it the best consumer electronics product of all time.So one month (and a bit) after the UK launch of the iPad 2, what's our long term verdict?There's no doubt that the iPad 2 is a darn sight nicer than the original model. It's slimmer, it's lighter, it's got more grunt and it's got two, albeit pathetically mediocre, cameras.With regards to those slight cosmetic changes, it's easy to overlook them. But ...
Buying Guide: Best netbook: top 14 in the world today
By TechRadar, published 05-04-2011
Our continually updated list of all the best netbooks available todayNetbooks are affordable. It's the reason we love them, and the reason that they took off in the first place. The cheap netbook isn't for everyone, but choose carefully and you'll get the best netbook on the market that will suit your needs.The big idea when getting your head around netbook computers is managing your expectations. If you're looking to write a novel, play games, or do a series stint of work, then you may be better off going for a full notebook or a desktop PC. While all these things are possible on a netbook, they're ideal for taking notes, editing work, watching movies, browsing the web and simply lasting a lengthy journey away from a plug socket. The battery life offered up by netbooks can be amazing, wit...
Review: Samsung RC510
By TechRadar, published 05-04-2011
The 15-inch Samsung RC510-S03UK laptop shows off exactly what Intel's Core i3 performance beast of a chip is capable of. It's also reasonably priced – you can currently find one for around £580.It's pretty, too, with glossy fingerprint-magnet finish and a profile which makes it look much thinner than it actually is – a trick the MacBook Air has perfected and one the RC510 pulls off well. The overall look is certainly a step up from Samsung's previous laptop range, which only sidestepped the generic tag thanks to a couple of well-placed curves.Equipped with the Nvidia Optimus GeForce 315M GPU chip and a full gigabyte of video memory, its specification certainly promises a lot. We can safely predict that the Core i3 is going to do enough to keep it competitive, but is this that rare bea...
Review: HP G72-a10SA
By TechRadar, published 05-04-2011
Business is booming at the low end of the laptop market. The PC platform has basically levelled out in terms of the functionality most of us expect. You don't need to shell out on a Macbook Pro or a high end Dell laptop such as the Latitude XT2 XFR to get a slick desktop performance – around £350 will do the trick.So here's one of HP's best efforts in the low end 17-inch laptop sector – and yes, appropriately enough, the HP G72-a10SA is a 17-inch monster with relatively modest insides.Not that you'd know of its inadequacies from looking at it, though. In terms of presentation, HP has done an incredible job – the G72 sports the seemingly ubiquitous textured casing of the current generation of laptops, a huge trackpad which blends seamlessly with the rest of the wrist-rest, and a soli...
Review: MSI Wind U160DX
By TechRadar, published 05-04-2011
Taiwanese company MSI has been putting out its Wind netbooks since the birth of the mini machines back in 2008. The Wind U160DX is an update of the excellent Wind U160, and we like this new machine's usability and portability, even if it lacks excitement. The original U160 stunned us with its excellent battery life and, while the U160DX can't quite compete with the Toshiba NB520-108 Packard Bell Dot SE, we were still pleased to get nearly eight hours of use away from the mains. The 1.2kg weight is extremely light, although the bulky battery is a pain when squeezing this machine into bags. We found the chassis to be sturdy, especially the solid lid which protects the screen during transport. While the plain black design does little to stand out, we liked the chunky brushed-aluminium hinge w...
Review: Dell XPS 17
By TechRadar, published 05-04-2011
It's been quite a while since we've seen a new 17-inch laptop from Dell's XPS range, which is home to the company's multimedia machines. Dell hasn't been twiddling its thumbs, however, and this laptop boasts fantastic design, power (for the money) and a huge range of multimedia features. Intel's Core i5 2410M processor provides comprehensive performance for all, but the most avid multimedia users. You'll easily be able to multi-task resource-intensive applications, such as music and movie editing software, while everyday applications, such as your web browser and word processing program, run with real fluidity. A powerful Nvidia Optimus GeForce GTX 555M graphics card means that those looking to play the latest games and edit their home movies in high definition, will find plenty of power h...
Feno Notebook Concept Features Unique Folding Design
By SlashGear, published 05-03-2011
We’ve seen a good deal of design concepts that incorporate some sort of folding method to create a hybrid device and improve portability such as with the LG Tryptych folding smartphone/tablet concept. And despite tablet and smartphone combos being the rage right now, the Feno concept designed by Niels Van Hoof goes back to tackling the good old notebook. His foldable notebook design features a unique folding method that makes the portable size just slightly wider than the diameter of a DVD. The Feno design concept is very Apple-esque in its clean and sleek aluminum look, although its renderings are showing a Windows desktop. But what makes it unique is that the concept involves folding into thirds, with the screen being folded in half right through the center. Van Hoof imagines uti...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 30-04-2011
This week we got our hands on the hugely impressive Samsung Galaxy S2 and the eagerly awaited BlackBerry PlayBook.We also spent some time looking through the lens of the good-looking Leica X1 and tested more Sandy Bridge chips from Intel.Read on for the most popular reviews on TechRadar this week.Samsung Galaxy S2 reviewThe Samsung Galaxy S2 is the phone the Korean firm deems a worthy successor to its best smartphone so far - with a 1.2GHz processor, super-slim chassis and feather-light innards, it's easy to see why.The phone is almost impossibly thin when you pick it up – dimensions of 125.3 x 66.1 x 8.5mm mean it's one of the thinnest smartphones on the market at the moment, rivalling the likes of the iPhone 4 and Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc for the title.BlackBerry PlayBook reviewWith a ...
Review: BlackBerry PlayBook
By TechRadar, published 26-04-2011
With a name that sounds like something you'd use at a sporting event, the BlackBerry PlayBook is the latest – and most unique – Apple iPad 2 challenger. Running a new OS called QNX, with quirky features like bridging to a BlackBerry phone for secure email and an oddly confusing initial setup, the PlayBook is a stark departure from the more iPad-like Motorola Xoom. Business-minded features such as built-in viewers for spreadsheets and word processing files are welcome, and the PlayBook gets extra credit for being fast and nimble on a dual-core 1GHz processor.Throw in a 3MP front-facing camera, a 5MP rear-facing one, a bright and crisp 1200x600 resolution screen, a light 425g body and all the typical gyro, accelerometer and GPS sensors and you have the makings for a powerful 7-inch table...
Amazon launches Kindle Library Lending service
By TechRadar, published 20-04-2011
Amazon has announced that users of its Kindle devices and smartphone apps will be able to 'borrow' ebooks from their local libraries.Library Lending is a US-based offering which will let users check-out digital titles from 11,000 libraries across America, free of charge.While this is a very cool way to incorporate libraries into the ebook revolution, cooler still is the fact that any annotations you make will be retained if you borrow the book again or buy it from the Kindle store.Whispersync friendlyAmazon Kindle Director Jay Marine says: "We're doing a little something extra here," Marine continued. "Normally, making margin notes in library books is a big no-no."But we're extending our Whispersync technologyso that you can highlight and add margin notes to Kindle books you check out from...
Review: Sony VAIO Z Series VPCZ13M9E
By TechRadar, published 20-04-2011
Following hot on the heels of its new VAIO S-Series ultraportable laptop, Sony has released another ridiculously slim and light portable that packs in plenty of power.The VAIO VPCZ13M9E fits into Sony's top-range business ultraportable bracket, as reflected by the hefty price tag. However, you do get an awful lot in return for emptying your wallet.Pulling the VAIO VPCZ13M9E from its box, we were immediately struck by how thin and light it is. While it isn't as slender as the elegant Samsung 9 Series, the 234 x 216 x 34mm dimensions means it'll slip easily into pretty much any bag.And at 1.4kg it's only a fraction heavier than the Samsung 9 Series, and almost half a kilo lighter than the VAIO S-Series. Even small children could carry the VAIO VPCZ13M9E around all day – although trusting a...
In Depth: How smartphones and tablets are taking over
By TechRadar, published 16-04-2011
Two years from now, something remarkable will happen: there will be more smartphones in the world than PCs. Technology analysis firm Gartner predicts that by 2013, there will be 1.82 billion smartphones compared to 1.78 billion PCs - and that doesn't include tablets. Apple sold 14.8 million iPads in 2010, and Forrester Research says that in the US, 82 million people will own tablets by 2015. Tablets and smartphones have become incredibly powerful in a very short space of time, with gigahertz-class dual-core processors, decent amounts of RAM and high definition displays appearing in pocket-friendly forms. As the price of such small but powerful devices continues to fall and hardware firms continue to innovate, it's clear that mobile computing is going to be a very big deal for the foreseeab...
In Depth: How smartphones and tablets are taking over
By TechRadar, published 16-04-2011
Two years from now, something remarkable will happen: there will be more smartphones in the world than PCs. Technology analysis firm Gartner predicts that by 2013, there will be 1.82 billion smartphones compared to 1.78 billion PCs - and that doesn't include tablets. Apple sold 14.8 million iPads in 2010, and Forrester Research says that in the US, 82 million people will own tablets by 2015. Tablets and smartphones have become incredibly powerful in a very short space of time, with gigahertz-class dual-core processors, decent amounts of RAM and high definition displays appearing in pocket-friendly forms. As the price of such small but powerful devices continues to fall and hardware firms continue to innovate, it's clear that mobile computing is going to be a very big deal for the foreseeab...
In Depth: How smartphones and tablets are taking over
By TechRadar, published 16-04-2011
Two years from now, something remarkable will happen: there will be more smartphones in the world than PCs. Technology analysis firm Gartner predicts that by 2013, there will be 1.82 billion smartphones compared to 1.78 billion PCs - and that doesn't include tablets. Apple sold 14.8 million iPads in 2010, and Forrester Research says that in the US, 82 million people will own tablets by 2015. Tablets and smartphones have become incredibly powerful in a very short space of time, with gigahertz-class dual-core processors, decent amounts of RAM and high definition displays appearing in pocket-friendly forms. As the price of such small but powerful devices continues to fall and hardware firms continue to innovate, it's clear that mobile computing is going to be a very big deal for the foreseeab...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 16-04-2011
This week we've reviewed the awesome Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V Android 3.0-toting iPad rival as well as the Sony VAIO S Series.Also check out our review of the amazing 50-inch Panasonic TX-P50GT30B 3D plasma as well as the Sony KDL-46NX713 2D LED set. We've also looked at the INQ Cloud Touch and we've also got hands on with the new Nokia X7. Top five reviews on TechRadarSamsung Galaxy Tab 10.1V reviewThere are two versions of the Galaxy Tab 10.1. This is the original one, now a Vodafone-exclusive. It's got Android 3.0 onboard, while the standout hardware feature is the 8MP camera which, to be frank, blows the iPad's equivalent clean out of the water and into the realm of total inferiority. The tablet is powered by Nvidia's dual-core Tegra 2 chip, and is thus a pleasure to use. The drawback ...
Buying Guide: HTC Flyer vs PlayBook vs Dell Streak 7 vs Galaxy Tab
By TechRadar, published 14-04-2011
When the HTC Flyer and BlackBerry PlayBook hit the market, they'll no doubt be compared to the ubiquitous iPad. But they are 7-inch tablets, so let's pit them against the other seven inchers available - the original Samsung Galaxy Tab and the Dell Streak 7.We should be seeing the PlayBook arrive in early summer, while the HTC Flyer is imminent. The HTC Flyer UK release date is 9 May.The HTC tablet has been given an eye-watering pre-order price of £599.99 from The Carphone Warehouse, but as yet we don't exactly know when the PlayBook will hit UK streets - although it will be out on 19 April in the US.Our colleagues at T3.com grabbed some BlackBerry PlayBook footage which you can watch below. brightcove.createExperiences(); OSThe BlackBerry PlayBook runs RIM's own bespoke Tablet ...
Buying Guide: HTC Flyer vs PlayBook vs Dell Streak 7 vs Galaxy Tab
By TechRadar, published 14-04-2011
When the HTC Flyer and BlackBerry PlayBook hit the market, they'll no doubt be compared to the ubiquitous iPad. But they are 7-inch tablets, so let's pit them against the other seven inchers available - the original Samsung Galaxy Tab and the Dell Streak 7.We should be seeing the PlayBook arrive in early summer, while the HTC Flyer is imminent. The HTC Flyer UK release date is 9 May.The HTC tablet has been given an eye-watering pre-order price of £599.99 from The Carphone Warehouse, but as yet we don't exactly know when the PlayBook will hit UK streets - although it will be out on 19 April in the US.Our colleagues at T3.com grabbed some BlackBerry PlayBook footage which you can watch below. brightcove.createExperiences(); OSThe BlackBerry PlayBook runs RIM's own bespoke Tablet ...
Buying Guide: HTC Flyer vs PlayBook vs Dell Streak 7 vs Galaxy Tab
By TechRadar, published 14-04-2011
When the HTC Flyer and BlackBerry PlayBook hit the market, they'll no doubt be compared to the ubiquitous iPad. But they are 7-inch tablets, so let's pit them against the other seven inchers available - the original Samsung Galaxy Tab and the Dell Streak 7.We should be seeing the PlayBook arrive in early summer, while the HTC Flyer is imminent. The HTC Flyer UK release date is 9 May.The HTC tablet has been given an eye-watering pre-order price of £599.99 from The Carphone Warehouse, but as yet we don't exactly know when the PlayBook will hit UK streets - although it will be out on 19 April in the US.Our colleagues at T3.com grabbed some BlackBerry PlayBook footage which you can watch below. brightcove.createExperiences(); OSThe BlackBerry PlayBook runs RIM's own bespoke Tablet ...
Review: Sony VAIO S Series VPC-SB1V9E
By TechRadar, published 14-04-2011
The Sony VPC-SB1V9E is Sony's latest power ultraportable laptop but it's unusual for Sony - itfalls into the business-oriented VAIO S-Series range. The VAIO Z-Series is the Japanese giant's usual ultra-portable laptop range, producing ridiculously sexy mini machines that can handle any application. Of course, this combo of power and portability often comes at quite a cost, usually well on the wrong side of a grand.But while the VAIO VPC-SB1V9E S Series may not have the looks of the MacBook Air or the Samsung 9-Series, this is still a fantastic laptop that doesn't skimp on performance. Even better, at £899, the asking price isn't too steep for an ultra-portable.At first glance, the VAIO VPC-SB1V9E isn't much of a looker. The lid is attractive enough with a dark brushed aluminium finish, bu...
Review: Sony VAIO S Series VPC-SB1V9E
By TechRadar, published 14-04-2011
The Sony VPC-SB1V9E is Sony's latest power ultraportable laptop but it's unusual for Sony - itfalls into the business-oriented VAIO S-Series range. The VAIO Z-Series is the Japanese giant's usual ultra-portable laptop range, producing ridiculously sexy mini machines that can handle any application. Of course, this combo of power and portability often comes at quite a cost, usually well on the wrong side of a grand.But while the VAIO VPC-SB1V9E S Series may not have the looks of the MacBook Air or the Samsung 9-Series, this is still a fantastic laptop that doesn't skimp on performance. Even better, at £899, the asking price isn't too steep for an ultra-portable.At first glance, the VAIO VPC-SB1V9E isn't much of a looker. The lid is attractive enough with a dark brushed aluminium finish, bu...
Review Roundup: This week's hottest reviews on TechRadar
By TechRadar, published 04-02-2011
This week's reviews include one of the hottest phones from this year's Mobile World Congress, the HTC Desire S. It's the follow-up to the best-selling HTC Desire, but can it top the highs of the handset it replaces? We've also fully reviewed Android 3.0, the tablet OS that hopes to conquer the supremacy of iOS as well as the incredibly quick six-core Intel Core i7 990X Extreme Edition. Top five reviews on TechRadarHTC Desire S review The Desire S is a great phone, but it feels like it doesn't live up to its grand name. We loved the original Desire so much. It was offering an experience comparable to the iPhone 4 three months before Apple's device was even announced.Android 3.0 reviewAndroid 3.0 is powerful and fast. It looks closer to what you'd expect in the modern computing age and not a...
In Depth: Google: 'We want to strip out operating system frustration'
By TechRadar, published 04-01-2011
We popped along to Google's London HQ this week to talk Chrome OS, Google's new low-resource Linux-based operating system for netbooks and notebooks. Chrome OS product marketing manager, Eli Lassman, took us through the features of the CR-48 prototype portable which TechRadar saw last week and gave us some background on the imminent launch of notebooks featuring Chrome OS. It's fair to say that the version of Chrome OS we've seen on the CR-48 is not finished. The browser itself is slow, but the real problem is the apps – Chrome OS needs Google to make several of its apps support offline use in HTML5 and replace the functionality lost with the end of Google Gears – especially Google Docs. We had expected Google Docs to have launched its new offline capability by now, and Lassman confirm...
In Depth: Google: 'We want to strip out operating system frustration'
By TechRadar, published 04-01-2011
We popped along to Google's London HQ this week to talk Chrome OS, Google's new low-resource Linux-based operating system for netbooks and notebooks. Chrome OS product marketing manager, Eli Lassman, took us through the features of the CR-48 prototype portable which TechRadar saw last week and gave us some background on the imminent launch of notebooks featuring Chrome OS. It's fair to say that the version of Chrome OS we've seen on the CR-48 is not finished. The browser itself is slow, but the real problem is the apps – Chrome OS needs Google to make several of its apps support offline use in HTML5 and replace the functionality lost with the end of Google Gears – especially Google Docs. We had expected Google Docs to have launched its new offline capability by now, and Lassman confirm...
In Depth: Google: 'We want to strip out operating system frustration'
By TechRadar, published 04-01-2011
We popped along to Google's London HQ this week to talk Chrome OS, Google's new low-resource Linux-based operating system for netbooks and notebooks. Chrome OS product marketing manager, Eli Lassman, took us through the features of the CR-48 prototype portable which TechRadar saw last week and gave us some background on the imminent launch of notebooks featuring Chrome OS. It's fair to say that the version of Chrome OS we've seen on the CR-48 is not finished. The browser itself is slow, but the real problem is the apps – Chrome OS needs Google to make several of its apps support offline use in HTML5 and replace the functionality lost with the end of Google Gears – especially Google Docs. We had expected Google Docs to have launched its new offline capability by now, and Lassman confirm...
Review: Apple MacBook (2011)
By TechRadar, published 27-03-2011
With the continuing popularity of the iPad, iPhone and iPod range, Apple's laptop sales have seen an impressive boost in recent months. The Apple MacBook is its entry-level model, and while some could argue it offers limited value, it's still a great choice.The main argument against Apple's laptops is that despite their use of older technology, they still cost the same as cutting-edge Windows-based machines. The MacBook uses a last generation Intel 2.4GHz Core 2 Duo P8600 processor, rather than a Core i5 chip as seen in the Acer Aspire 5943G and Fujitsu Lifebook S710. While the difference in performance is significant, there's still ample power to run the excellent Mac OS X 10.6 operating system and software with plenty of speed. Graphics are just as capable. While outperformed by the Acer...
Review: Apple MacBook (2011)
By TechRadar, published 27-03-2011
With the continuing popularity of the iPad, iPhone and iPod range, Apple's laptop sales have seen an impressive boost in recent months. The Apple MacBook is its entry-level model, and while some could argue it offers limited value, it's still a great choice.The main argument against Apple's laptops is that despite their use of older technology, they still cost the same as cutting-edge Windows-based machines. The MacBook uses a last generation Intel 2.4GHz Core 2 Duo P8600 processor, rather than a Core i5 chip as seen in the Acer Aspire 5943G and Fujitsu Lifebook S710. While the difference in performance is significant, there's still ample power to run the excellent Mac OS X 10.6 operating system and software with plenty of speed. Graphics are just as capable. While outperformed by the Acer...
Review: Hi-Grade Notino D8000i
By TechRadar, published 27-03-2011
The Hi-Grade Notino D8000i is aimed at the average consumer who needs a laptop for home and office use, although its limited battery life makes it much better suited to a life at home. Like most Hi-Grade laptops, a generic plastic chassis has been used. The appearance is cheap in comparison to other laptops such as the Asus P52F, Samsung R440 and Dell Vostro V130, and the silver body flexes under pressure. However, the lid is firm enough to ably protect the 15.6-inch screen. A glossy Super-TFT finish has been used for the display, and photographs and movies are vibrantly reproduced as a result. The only drawback is increased reflectivity, which hampers use outdoors or in brightly lit environments. We were impressed by the deep blacks and sharp contrast, although the screen barely folds bac...
Review: Hi-Grade Notino D8000i
By TechRadar, published 27-03-2011
The Hi-Grade Notino D8000i is aimed at the average consumer who needs a laptop for home and office use, although its limited battery life makes it much better suited to a life at home. Like most Hi-Grade laptops, a generic plastic chassis has been used. The appearance is cheap in comparison to other laptops such as the Asus P52F, Samsung R440 and Dell Vostro V130, and the silver body flexes under pressure. However, the lid is firm enough to ably protect the 15.6-inch screen. A glossy Super-TFT finish has been used for the display, and photographs and movies are vibrantly reproduced as a result. The only drawback is increased reflectivity, which hampers use outdoors or in brightly lit environments. We were impressed by the deep blacks and sharp contrast, although the screen barely folds bac...
Review: Asus P52F
By TechRadar, published 27-03-2011
Taiwanese company Asus is best known for its revolutionary Eee PC netbooks, but also produces full-sized laptops. The P52F-SO006X is a smart business model that's solidly built, with strong Intel Core performance. Our first reaction was highly positive, as the all-black chassis looks and feels reassuringly solid. The lid barely flexes at all, protecting the display within, while the shock protected hard drive helps to prevent damage to your data by resetting the read/write head if vibrations are detected. At 2.7kg this is quite a heavy laptop, though, so bear this in mind if you travel often. As with the Samsung R440, an Intel Core i3 370M processor provides the power. Anyone wishing to multitask with all their office applications will be pleased with the response, and only the Core i5 lap...
Review: Asus P52F
By TechRadar, published 27-03-2011
Taiwanese company Asus is best known for its revolutionary Eee PC netbooks, but also produces full-sized laptops. The P52F-SO006X is a smart business model that's solidly built, with strong Intel Core performance. Our first reaction was highly positive, as the all-black chassis looks and feels reassuringly solid. The lid barely flexes at all, protecting the display within, while the shock protected hard drive helps to prevent damage to your data by resetting the read/write head if vibrations are detected. At 2.7kg this is quite a heavy laptop, though, so bear this in mind if you travel often. As with the Samsung R440, an Intel Core i3 370M processor provides the power. Anyone wishing to multitask with all their office applications will be pleased with the response, and only the Core i5 lap...
Samsung announces SE-406A slim external Blu-ray combo drive
By SlashGear, published 24-03-2011
Samsung has announced the launch of a new external slim Blu-ray drive that is for the computer market. The new slim drive is called the SE-406A and it supports 3D playback. The drive might be just the thing to add 3D Blu-ray capability to a notebook or netbook that lacks an optical drive. The drive ships with CyberLink TrueTheater software for playback of movies and the software will also test the ability of the PC to support 3D content. The player will play normal DVDs and Blu-ray flicks too. It can also read and write to CDs and DVDs. However, it only reads Blu-ray discs. The SE-406A is designed to work with both Mac and Windows computers and it has Buffer Under Run technology to prevent any errors that may result from writing speeds that are faster than data transfer speed. The drive s...
In Depth: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 23-03-2011
The UK iPad 2 release date is mere days away, but the rumour factory's already moved on: it's predicting iPad 3 specifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?The iPad 3 release date is September 2011This is the biggest rumour of all: an iPad 3 mere months after the iPad 2. An unnamed Apple employee says that the iPad 2 was a bit of a rush job, and "the third generation iPad is the one to make a song and dance about."Respected Apple watcher John Gruber added fuel to that particular fire by strongly hinting that the iPad 3 release date will be in September.Gruber, who was musing about the HP TouchPad's potential s...
In Depth: iPad 3 rumours: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 23-03-2011
The UK iPad 2 release date is mere days away, but the rumour factory's already moved on: it's predicting iPad 3 specifications including chips, cameras and retina displays - with a little bit of help from mysterious, unnamed people who can't possibly be identified.How very convenient. So what's the word on the street about the next iPad?The iPad 3 release date is September 2011This is the biggest rumour of all: an iPad 3 mere months after the iPad 2. An unnamed Apple employee says that the iPad 2 was a bit of a rush job, and "the third generation iPad is the one to make a song and dance about."Respected Apple watcher John Gruber added fuel to that particular fire by strongly hinting that the iPad 3 release date will be in September.Gruber, who was musing about the HP TouchPad's potential s...
Samsung Galaxy S II Mini outed by leaked slides
By TechRadar, published 21-03-2011
Not content with simply revealing potential release dates for the BlackBerry PlayBook and HTC Flyer, Three's leaked slides also out the Samsung Galaxy S II Mini. The 'mini' version of the Samsung Galaxy S II comes with a 3.7-inch screen – not exactly what you'd call small given that it's the same size as the HTC Desire S's display. The processor isn't exactly tiny either, rocking 1.4Ghz as it does, plus there's Android Gingerbread and front- and rear-facing cameras to play with too. The latter comes in at 5MP with autofocus and an LED flash as standard. Prequel not sequelThree's slide lists the Samsung Galaxy S II Mini release date as April, which could see it putting in an appearance before its erstwhile brother, the Samsung Galaxy S II which some retailers have pushed back to May. Also...
Samsung Galaxy S II Mini outed by leaked slides
By TechRadar, published 21-03-2011
Not content with simply revealing potential release dates for the BlackBerry PlayBook and HTC Flyer, Three's leaked slides also out the Samsung Galaxy S II Mini. The 'mini' version of the Samsung Galaxy S II comes with a 3.7-inch screen – not exactly what you'd call small given that it's the same size as the HTC Desire S's display. The processor isn't exactly tiny either, rocking 1.4Ghz as it does, plus there's Android Gingerbread and front- and rear-facing cameras to play with too. The latter comes in at 5MP with autofocus and an LED flash as standard. Prequel not sequelThree's slide lists the Samsung Galaxy S II Mini release date as April, which could see it putting in an appearance before its erstwhile brother, the Samsung Galaxy S II which some retailers have pushed back to May. Also...
BlackBerry PlayBook UK release date leaked
By TechRadar, published 21-03-2011
Some leaked Three-branded slides suggest that the BlackBerry PlayBook UK release date will be coming in June 2011. RIM, which revealed its first tablet efforts in September, is set to launch the PlayBook in April in the US.An official UK release date has not been revealed, and Three's slide states that it's the Wi-Fi only model that will be available in June.Three – it's a magic numberWe can also assume that Three will be ranging the RIM tablet, although talks may not yet be finalised if the release date is so far in the future.The leaked slides, which were sent to Engadget, also list the HTC Flyer for a May release and outs the Samsung Galaxy S II Mini, a variant of the Galaxy S II which is yet to hit the UK's shelves.A June launch will put the PlayBook a good three months behind Apple'...
BlackBerry PlayBook UK release date leaked
By TechRadar, published 21-03-2011
Some leaked Three-branded slides suggest that the BlackBerry PlayBook UK release date will be coming in June 2011. RIM, which revealed its first tablet efforts in September, is set to launch the PlayBook in April in the US.An official UK release date has not been revealed, and Three's slide states that it's the Wi-Fi only model that will be available in June.Three – it's a magic numberWe can also assume that Three will be ranging the RIM tablet, although talks may not yet be finalised if the release date is so far in the future.The leaked slides, which were sent to Engadget, also list the HTC Flyer for a May release and outs the Samsung Galaxy S II Mini, a variant of the Galaxy S II which is yet to hit the UK's shelves.A June launch will put the PlayBook a good three months behind Apple'...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 19-03-2011
This week, Tesco announced that Android sales have overtaken iPhone sales on its network, while in other iPhone news, supposed leaked images of iPhone 5 cases popped up.And in the viewing world, Sky launched a new multiroom HD box and Google acquired a technology that should enable it to tidy up low quality video on YouTube. Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesTesco: Android has overtaken iPhoneTesco has revealed that the sale of Android phones on its network have surpassed Apple's iPhone for the first time.Tesco, a virtual mobile operator running on O2's network, says its customers indicate that Google's operating system is poised to grow even larger in 2011.In the pre-Christmas period the iPhone was outselling Android smartphones by a factor o...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 19-03-2011
This week, Tesco announced that Android sales have overtaken iPhone sales on its network, while in other iPhone news, supposed leaked images of iPhone 5 cases popped up.And in the viewing world, Sky launched a new multiroom HD box and Google acquired a technology that should enable it to tidy up low quality video on YouTube. Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesTesco: Android has overtaken iPhoneTesco has revealed that the sale of Android phones on its network have surpassed Apple's iPhone for the first time.Tesco, a virtual mobile operator running on O2's network, says its customers indicate that Google's operating system is poised to grow even larger in 2011.In the pre-Christmas period the iPhone was outselling Android smartphones by a factor o...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 19-03-2011
This week, Tesco announced that Android sales have overtaken iPhone sales on its network, while in other iPhone news, supposed leaked images of iPhone 5 cases popped up.And in the viewing world, Sky launched a new multiroom HD box and Google acquired a technology that should enable it to tidy up low quality video on YouTube. Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesTesco: Android has overtaken iPhoneTesco has revealed that the sale of Android phones on its network have surpassed Apple's iPhone for the first time.Tesco, a virtual mobile operator running on O2's network, says its customers indicate that Google's operating system is poised to grow even larger in 2011.In the pre-Christmas period the iPhone was outselling Android smartphones by a factor o...
Review: Viewsonic ViewPad 10s
By TechRadar, published 18-03-2011
There is a ludicrously thin 9.7-inch shadow over tablet releases at the moment. The iPad 2 has landed, and we judged it the best tablet yet. However, that doesn't stop the march of Apple's competitors.We first saw the ViewSonic ViewPad 10s at CES, and we were intrigued by the Tap UI it used to disguise Android. However, we also remember the pitiful excuse for modern electronics that is the ViewPad 10 (Note the lack of 's').Fortunately, the ViewPad 10s has much more in common with the Motorola Xoom than it does its own predecessor, packing in Nvidia's Tegra 2 system on a chip for power. It actually beats Moto's great tablet in one area: Flash is included for internet browsing.That means twin 1GHz ARM processor cores and powerful graphics capabilities, backed by 512MB of RAM, which should ke...
Review: Viewsonic ViewPad 10s
By TechRadar, published 18-03-2011
There is a ludicrously thin 9.7-inch shadow over tablet releases at the moment. The iPad 2 has landed, and we judged it the best tablet yet. However, that doesn't stop the march of Apple's competitors.We first saw the ViewSonic ViewPad 10s at CES, and we were intrigued by the Tap UI it used to disguise Android. However, we also remember the pitiful excuse for modern electronics that is the ViewPad 10 (Note the lack of 's').Fortunately, the ViewPad 10s has much more in common with the Motorola Xoom than it does its own predecessor, packing in Nvidia's Tegra 2 system on a chip for power. It actually beats Moto's great tablet in one area: Flash is included for internet browsing.That means twin 1GHz ARM processor cores and powerful graphics capabilities, backed by 512MB of RAM, which should ke...
Updated: Android 3.0: all the latest updates
By TechRadar, published 16-03-2011
Information about Android 3.0 - Android Honeycomb - is coming thick and fast now as a raft of Android 3.0 tablets are lined up for release this year.Here's what we know about Android 3.0 so far. On 20 October, we reported that Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablets were rumoured to be heading out to engineers in time for Christmas. This resulted in a huge range of tablets arriving at CES 2011, with UK release dates later in the year, but none of the tablets on show were actually running Android 3.0.Android 3.0 release dateAndroid 3.0 release date is looking like early 2011.In a video on All Things Digital posted on 7 December 2010 Google's Andy Rubin showed off a prototype Motorola Android 3.0 tablet and confirmed that the Android 3.0 release date will be "some time next year".As of mid-February 20...
Updated: Android 3.0: all the latest updates
By TechRadar, published 16-03-2011
Information about Android 3.0 - Android Honeycomb - is coming thick and fast now as a raft of Android 3.0 tablets are lined up for release this year.Here's what we know about Android 3.0 so far. On 20 October, we reported that Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablets were rumoured to be heading out to engineers in time for Christmas. This resulted in a huge range of tablets arriving at CES 2011, with UK release dates later in the year, but none of the tablets on show were actually running Android 3.0.Android 3.0 release dateAndroid 3.0 release date is looking like early 2011.In a video on All Things Digital posted on 7 December 2010 Google's Andy Rubin showed off a prototype Motorola Android 3.0 tablet and confirmed that the Android 3.0 release date will be "some time next year".As of mid-February 20...
Review: iPad 2
By TechRadar, published 03-12-2011
Our iPad 2 review is a work in progress. Here are our initial findings...Just under one year ago, Apple shocked the computing world with a 9.7-inch touchscreen tablet that few truly expected.Some called the original Apple iPad a large-format iPhone. Others berated the name and made jokes that were not remotely funny.The early reviews were marginal at best – we handed the device a solid four stars. Technical folks decried the lack of Adobe Flash and the missing cameras.Now, 60,000 apps later (according to Apple, who counts every conceivable option) and just a few weeks after the first real Android 3.0 tablet contender hit the streets (Motorola Xoom), the iPad 2 has sauntered onto the playing field.Some expected pure gold: a tablet that runs as fast as a laptop and weighs less than a newsp...
Review: iPad 2
By TechRadar, published 03-12-2011
Our Apple iPad 2 review is a work in progress. Here are our initial findings...Just under one year ago, Apple shocked the computing world with a 9.7-inch touchscreen tablet that few truly expected.Some called the original Apple iPad a large-format iPhone. Others berated the name and made jokes that were not remotely funny.The early reviews were marginal at best – we handed the device a solid four stars. Technical folks decried the lack of Adobe Flash and the missing cameras.Now, 60,000 apps later (according to Apple, who counts every conceivable option) and just a few weeks after the first real Android 3.0 tablet contender hit the streets (Motorola Xoom), the iPad 2 has sauntered onto the playing field.Some expected pure gold: a tablet that runs as fast as a laptop and weighs less than a...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 03-12-2011
While most eyes are on the iPad 2 at the moment one analyst at least reckons that Android tablets are set to take the market lead.And in the OMG PANIC department, news came out that over-reliance on sat navs could cause death. Hopefully some of us will be left alive, though, as the UK government is pressing on with a £50m broadband plan to bring high-speed internet to rural areas.So if you live in the country, get rid of your sat nav or your dreams of finally getting to watch cats playing the piano on YouTube without the constant buffering may never be realised.Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesAndroid tablet sales to 'dominate' over the iPad by 2014The spotlights might be magnetically drawn to the iPad 2 at the moment, but it seems those bac...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 03-12-2011
While most eyes are on the iPad 2 at the moment one analyst at least reckons that Android tablets are set to take the market lead.And in the OMG PANIC department, news came out that over-reliance on sat navs could cause death. Hopefully some of us will be left alive, though, as the UK government is pressing on with a £50m broadband plan to bring high-speed internet to rural areas.So if you live in the country, get rid of your sat nav or your dreams of finally getting to watch cats playing the piano on YouTube without the constant buffering may never be realised.Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesAndroid tablet sales to 'dominate' over the iPad by 2014The spotlights might be magnetically drawn to the iPad 2 at the moment, but it seems those bac...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 03-12-2011
While most eyes are on the iPad 2 at the moment one analyst at least reckons that Android tablets are set to take the market lead.And in the OMG PANIC department, news came out that over-reliance on sat navs could cause death. Hopefully some of us will be left alive, though, as the UK government is pressing on with a £50m broadband plan to bring high-speed internet to rural areas.So if you live in the country, get rid of your sat nav or your dreams of finally getting to watch cats playing the piano on YouTube without the constant buffering may never be realised.Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesAndroid tablet sales to 'dominate' over the iPad by 2014The spotlights might be magnetically drawn to the iPad 2 at the moment, but it seems those bac...
Updated: 10 best touchscreen phones for 2011
By TechRadar, published 03-11-2011
Our best touchscreen phone article is constantly updated.Quite simply, touch screen technology is the innovation we now expect to see in some shape or form from every new smartphone that launches. Swapping a button-bashing existence for a softer sensing interface we can press, swipe, pinch and zoom, means we can now do a little bit more than simply stare into that pint-sized screen of ours.If the only QWERTY keyboard you want to see on a daily basis is the one nestled next to your office computer, here's our pick of the best touchscreen smartphones available right now in the UK.1. HTC Desire HDSporting a massive 4.3-inch Super LCD touch screen display, the HD has plenty of room for slick manoeuvre around HTC's overhauled Sense UI. Incorporating the same 480X800 WVGA resolution as the origi...
Updated: Apple iPad 2: our first impressions
By TechRadar, published 03-02-2011
Apple may have sold 15 million first-version iPads, but the company isn't resting on its laurels. Steve Jobs has just announced the iPad 2 in San Francisco and there will be a white version as well as a black one. But what do we think of it at first glance? However, iPad 2 isn't the extreme makeover many were expecting. The device costs the same as the current iPad ($499 in the US) and comes with the same 16, 32 and 64GB memory configurations.The iPad 2 UK release date is 25 March, so expect it to start from £439 as before, unless we're really going to get done over in the UK. The main physical thing is that the new iPad is thinner - 33 per cent thinner, clocking it at 8.8mm, or thinner than the iPhone 4 (which clocks in at 9.3mm). Wow. It looks incredible and has the expected front-faci...
Updated: HTC Flyer: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 21-02-2011
At Mobile World Congress HTC announced the HTC Flyer tablet. But the specs didn't blow us away - it's a 7-inch single-core device running an older version of Android instead of one of the dual-core larger options running Android 3.0.So what do we know about the new device? The HTC Flyer doesn't have Android 3.0HTC plumped for the earlier Gingerbread version of Android (2.3/2.4) rather than the Android 3.0 version a lot of the other tablets are using. It seems Honeycomb will arrive on the tablet imminently though. The HTC Flyer processor is 1.5GHzThe HTC Flyer packs a 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor - surprising amidst the slew of dual core tablets being released at the moment. However, it is clocked high at 1.5GHz. There's also 1GB of RAM.The HTC Flyer has a 7-inch screenLike the Blac...
Updated: HTC Flyer: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 21-02-2011
At Mobile World Congress HTC announced the HTC Flyer tablet. But the specs didn't blow us away - it's a 7-inch single-core device running an older version of Android instead of one of the dual-core larger options running Android 3.0.So what do we know about the new device? The HTC Flyer doesn't have Android 3.0HTC plumped for the earlier Gingerbread version of Android (2.3/2.4) rather than the Android 3.0 version a lot of the other tablets are using. It seems Honeycomb will arrive on the tablet imminently though. The HTC Flyer processor is 1.5GHzThe HTC Flyer packs a 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor - surprising amidst the slew of dual core tablets being released at the moment. However, it is clocked high at 1.5GHz. There's also 1GB of RAM.The HTC Flyer has a 7-inch screenLike the Blac...
Sony readying S2 dual-screen Android clamshell tablet?
By TechRadar, published 21-02-2011
Sony could be working on two more unusual tablets for launch in 2011; a two-screened Android clamshell and a Windows 7 slider, named the S1 and S2.Following the rumour that Sony is to launch a PlayStation tablet named the S1 last week, the S2 is set to be an Android tablet running Android 3.0, and featuring two 5.5-inch displays. According to Engadget's two sources, the shape closely resembles an oval cylinder when closed - a bit like a flask. It certainly sounds, er, different, although not exactly economical with space. Flask-like AndroidWhen it comes to spec, Engadget has been told it will offer a Tegra 2 SoC, WiFi, 3G and at least one rear-facing camera, although which way is rear-facing may be hard to tell. The source also said that Sony will be working on the Honeycomb OS to make the...
iPhone 6 or iPad 3 to come with 6-inch screen?
By TechRadar, published 21-02-2011
Apple is said to be working on a 6-inch device to sit somewhere between the current iPhone and iPad ranges. A "connected industry expert" has told AppleInsider that Apple intends to widen its range with a device that sits somewhere between the iPhone and the iPad size-wise, with a 6-inch display. The mystery 6-incher could be the iPad 3, which has been speculated to launch later this year, or the iPhone 6, dwarfing the current iPhone 4's 3.5-inch display. Honey, I shrunk the iPadSome industry insiders, however, are more confident that we'll see a big iPod touch than a mega iPhone or a mini iPad - particularly given Apple's critical view of smaller tablet screens. A blown-up iPod touch would fill a gap in Apple's portable device range, allowing apps and emails to be enjoyed on a bigger scre...
iPad price drops indicate iPad 2 launch is imminent
By TechRadar, published 21-02-2011
Both T-Mobile and Orange have dropped their iPad pricing, suggesting that the iPad 2 will be with us in a matter of weeks. Dropping product pricing to clear stock is an age old indicator that a new version is on its way, and the two EverythingEverywhere networks' pricing has fallen significantly. Here come the numbersOrange is now selling the iPad for £99 on its 24-month contracts and T-Mobile is offering the same to existing customers. Previously, Orange was offering the iPad WiFi + 3G at £199.99 upfront on a £25 per month contract to existing customers and at £229.99 for new customers on a £27 per month contract - so the new pricing offers a saving of at least £100 on each. T-Mobile, meanwhile, is only offering the discount to existing customers on a 24-month £25 tariff. The tech ...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 19-02-2011
It's been mobile phone mayhem this week with a host of new smartphones being shown off at the annual Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.And even though Apple wasn't there to show off a new iPhone, that hasn't stopped more iPhone 5 rumours cropping up.Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesRumour: iPhone nano being developed by AppleApple could be developing a budget iPhone in order to ward off competition from Google Android handsets.A prototype version of a smaller, cheaper Apple handset than the iPhone 4 is said to exist, although this is no guarantee such an iPhone will ever make it to market.The mysterious little iPhone is apparently a third smaller than the iPhone 4, with no home button on the front of the handset, which certainly sits well wi...
Across the pond: This week on TechRadar
By MaximumPC, published 18-02-2011
It's been mobile phone mayhem this week on TechRadar with a host of new smartphones being shown off at the annual Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. And even though Apple wasn't there to show off a new iPhone, that hasn't stopped more iPhone 5 rumours cropping up. Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar… Top five news stories Rumour: iPhone nano being developed by Apple Apple could be developing a budget iPhone in order to ward off competition from Google Android handsets. A prototype version of a smaller, cheaper Apple handset than the iPhone 4 is said to exist, although this is no guarantee such an iPhone will ever make it to market. The mysterious little iPhone is apparently a third smaller than the iPhone 4, with no home button on the front of the handset, which ...
Updated: Top 20 best tablet PC iPad alternatives
By TechRadar, published 18-02-2011
This year is going to be the year of the touchscreen tablet, of that there can be no doubt.While tablet PCs have been around for yonks, only now are they becoming the desirable, usable and functional devices that we've always wanted them to be – and it's about time too.The iPad is currently the most obvious example of how tablets are going mainstream, but that's not to say that all tablets released from now on are guaranteed to be super awesome. Indeed there are some real stinkers out there – remember the Toshiba Folio 100?So allow us to walk you through the best tablets currently on sale, along with the sexy tablets that are set to tickle your fingertips later in 2011.Samsung Galaxy Tab GT-P1000UK release date: October 2010Specs: Android 2.2, 1 GHz Cortex A8 CPU, 512MB RAM, 16GB/32GB,...
Updated: Top 20 best tablet PC iPad alternatives
By TechRadar, published 18-02-2011
This year is going to be the year of the touchscreen tablet, of that there can be no doubt.While tablet PCs have been around for yonks, only now are they becoming the desirable, usable and functional devices that we've always wanted them to be – and it's about time too.The iPad is currently the most obvious example of how tablets are going mainstream, but that's not to say that all tablets released from now on are guaranteed to be super awesome. Indeed there are some real stinkers out there – remember the Toshiba Folio 100?So allow us to walk you through the best tablets currently on sale, along with the sexy tablets that are set to tickle your fingertips later in 2011.Samsung Galaxy Tab GT-P1000UK release date: October 2010Specs: Android 2.2, 1 GHz Cortex A8 CPU, 512MB RAM, 16GB/32GB,...
Opinion: The winners and losers of MWC 2011
By TechRadar, published 17-02-2011
This was a very interesting Mobile World Congress. And not actually in terms of devices; although we saw some special stuff, there was nothing to top the hardware inside Motorola's dual-core Tegra 2 Xoom and Atrix announcements at CES last month.But the show was certainly rather more interesting in terms of the strategy and positioning of the various mobile chip and operating system players.In terms of hardware, the LG Optimus 3D was of great interest, the Samsung Galaxy S2, Galaxy Tab 10.1 and LG Optimus Pad superb, while HTC's hardware disappointed with no dual-core (although it surely won't be long) and the specs of the HTC Flyer were a letdown – unless it can hit a stupidly low, iPad-bashing price point, of course. If you'd any doubt about it before, Android 3.0 is huge. Honeycomb is...
Updated: Android 3.0: all the latest updates
By TechRadar, published 17-02-2011
Information about Android 3.0 - Android Honeycomb - is coming thick and fast now as a raft of Android 3.0 tablets are lined up for release this year.Here's what we know about Android 3.0 so far. On 20 October, we reported that Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablets were rumoured to be heading out to engineers in time for Christmas. This resulted in a huge range of tablets arriving at CES 2011, with UK release dates later in the year, but none of the tablets on show were actually running Android 3.0.Android 3.0 release dateAndroid 3.0 release date is looking like early 2011.In a video on All Things Digital posted on 7 December 2010 Google's Andy Rubin showed off a prototype Motorola Android 3.0 tablet and confirmed that the Android 3.0 release date will be "some time next year".As of mid-February 20...
Review: Panasonic Toughbook CF-31
By TechRadar, published 17-02-2011
Panasonic's Toughbook range is built to survive in the harshest climates, making it perfect for more adventurous users. The Toughbook CF-31 is the latest entry and an extremely well-built laptop, well suited to travel. With an Ingress Protection rating of 65, this machine can withstand a jet of water from any direction and is impervious to dust infiltration. It's been tested to military-grade standards and can withstand a drop of up to 180cm, thanks to the rugged magnesium alloy casing and flexible internal parts. The chassis is incredibly bulky and weighs 3.8kg, but it's undeniably solid and features a built-in handle for transport. The battery life of 563 minutes is truly remarkable for an Intel Core i5-powered machine and means you get a full day of use even if you're miles from a plug ...
Review: Toshiba Satellite L650-1GD
By TechRadar, published 16-02-2011
Toshiba's output never seems to slow and its Satellite range incorporates everything from entry-level laptops to powerful multimedia machines. The Satellite L650-1GD is a mid-range laptop with strong performance, but it struggles to stand out. The chassis is one of the bulkiest with a thickness of 40mm, although the 2.5kg weight means it can be comfortably carried in a case. We liked the all-black design featuring a subtle wavy pattern, although we noticed some flex along the right edge and also in the centre of the lid, which could potentially harm the display. A glossy coating has been used for the 15.6-inch screen and we found reflections to be a hindrance to outdoor use, as with the other laptops in this group. Images are well reproduced and colourful, however. With an Intel Core i5 46...
MWC 2011: The best tablets at MWC 2011
By TechRadar, published 15-02-2011
The dust had barely settled after a chaotic stampede of tablets at CES. Now, a month on, there's more tablet action to come.At this year's Mobile World Congress, Samsung, HTC, Acer and LG all announced new tablets. Add these to devices on show from HP, RIM, ViewSonic and Motorola and you can see why 2011 is going to be the year of keyboard-less computing. Here's our round-up of the best tablets and pads on show at MWC 2011…HTC FlyerAfter much speculation, HTC finally revealed its Flyer tablet at Mobile World Congress. It comes with a 7-inch display, so it ducks direct comparison with the iPad and has more in common with the original Samsung Galaxy Tab and the Blackberry PlayBook. In fact, the HTC Flyer fits neatly between the two – it's better specced than Samsung's mini-tablet, yet no...
Mobile World Congress 2011: What You Need to Know
By MaximumPC, published 14-02-2011
Top stories from Mobile World Congres 2011: Shootout: Samsung's Galaxy S2 vs. LG Optimus 3d First details on Windows Phone 7 Update Windows Phone 7 + Kinect = ?? Hands On: LG's Optimus 3D phone Hands On: LG's Optimus Pad The Samsung Galaxy S II, Galaxy Tab 10.1, LG Optimus 3D and Sony Ericsson Xperia Play grabbed the big headlines at Mobile World Congress 2011. If you thought CES was fun, the annual Barcelona event will have had early adopters reaching for their wallets and breathlessly hunting for preorder opportunities. CES and MWC set the trend for the year ahead in mobile technology. So we should expect thinner, dual-core smartphones a-plenty, more vibrant displays, bigger displays, 1080p video, 3D video, LTE, HSPA+ and Near Field Communications (NFC). Tablets will be similarly ...
MWC 2011: Samsung Galaxy S Wi-Fi 5.0: iPod rival looks classy
By TechRadar, published 14-02-2011
Now this is interesting – Samsung has a brand-new device on its stands at Mobile World Congress 2011, something which wasn't talked about in its press conference.It is called the Samsung Galaxy S Wi-Fi 5.0 and could well be the best reason to ditch your iPod forever.As its name gives away, the Samsung Galaxy S Wi-Fi 5.0 is modelled on a Samsung Galaxy S range but is sans phone features.5-inch screenInstead what you have is a PMP that's powered by Android, a front-facing camera, HDMI port, microSD card slot and a 5-inch screen.It's a secretive thing of beauty and TechRadar has already got a Samsung Galaxy S Wi-Fi 5.0 hands on in the offing, where we will be able to give you more details on the great-looking device.That sound you can hear is the likes of Archos quaking in its boots.
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 02-12-2011
This week, the numbering and naming of future versions of Android got a little confusing as Viewsonic revealed Google's plans for Android 2.4, which involve keeping the Gingerbread name and effectively replacing Android 2.3.And on a more retro tip,we discovered that Sinclair's ZX Spectrum is set to be relaunched to celebrate the classic computer's 30th anniversary.With Mobile World Congress kicking off tomorrow evening, the HTC Desire 2 looks to be one of the handsets that'll be making an appearance.Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesAndroid 2.4 to replace 2.3, retain Gingerbread flavour?Viewsonic has revealed Google's plans for Android 2.4, which involve keeping the Gingerbread name and effectively replacing Android 2.3.The American company ha...
Samsung Galaxy Tab 2: what you need to know
By TechRadar, published 02-11-2011
The Samsung Galaxy Tab was the first real rival to Apple's iPad, so it's fitting that there'll be a Galaxy Tab 2 to take on the iPad 2.Nothing has been officially released yet, but that hasn't stopped the internet from reading tea-leaves, looking for omens and spotting the odd accidentally leaked marketing slide. So what do we know about the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 UK release date, specifications and price?The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 specification includes a dual-core processorThis one's a no-brainer: Samsung's mobile boss JK Shin said at CES: "in terms of dual-core applications, we already have a program, and next month at Mobile World Congress we will unveil it". Expect an official reveal on February the 13th.The Galaxy Tab 2 probably has a 1.2GHz Orion processorMobile Fun appears to have leak...
BlackBerry PlayBook to get Android app support this year?
By TechRadar, published 02-11-2011
RIM could be planning to allow Android applications to run on its BlackBerry Playbook and implementing this in the latter half of the year,according to Bloomberg. The news outlet, which cites three people familiar with the matter, says that RIM plans to piggyback Android's 130,000+ apps using software it is developing internally, lending credence to previous rumours.The PlayBook itself runs BlackBerry's proprietary QNX-based OS, but if the rumours are to be believed, support for Android applications could be ready as early as the second half of this year, possibly using the Dalvik Java virtual machine.Clever RIMAlthough it's not clear how the Android Marketplace would integrate with BlackBerry's own App World, if at all, it certainly would be a quick and easy route to a successful app stor...
BlackBerry PlayBook to get Android app support this year?
By TechRadar, published 02-11-2011
RIM could be planning to allow Android applications to run on its BlackBerry Playbook and implementing this in the latter half of the year,according to Bloomberg. The news outlet, which cites three people familiar with the matter, says that RIM plans to piggyback Android's 130,000+ apps using software it is developing internally, lending credence to previous rumours.The PlayBook itself runs BlackBerry's proprietary QNX-based OS, but if the rumours are to be believed, support for Android applications could be ready as early as the second half of this year, possibly using the Dalvik Java virtual machine.Clever RIMAlthough it's not clear how the Android Marketplace would integrate with BlackBerry's own App World, if at all, it certainly would be a quick and easy route to a successful app stor...
Dell pulls plug on MacBook Air rival
By TechRadar, published 02-10-2011
Dell has canned its MacBook Air rival, the Dell Adamo, after heavy discounting failed to ignite sales at retail.Dell has informed TechRadar that the current Dell Adamo line of luxury laptops is to be discontinued."With the launch of the XPS 15 and 17 laptops in October, we have realigned our premium products under the XPS brand," says Ellen Murphy, EMEA Consumer PR Manager for XPS. "XPS products are developed to deliver a premium performance experience associated with multimedia activities like video editing, immersive entertainment and casual gaming. The engineering excellence and cutting-edge design Adamo is known for will be incorporated into future products under the XPS brand."MacBook Air rivalThe Dell Adamo was originally unveiled at CES back in January 2009, pitched as a PC competit...
Updated: Mobile World Congress 2011: what to expect
By TechRadar, published 02-10-2011
After the sheer madness and reams of shiny gadgets of CES 2011, we barely have time to pause for breath before the annual mobile phone-a-thon of Mobile World Congress 2011 is upon us.While CES saw a near-record number of top end mobile phones released from the Las Vegas jamboree, MWC 2011 still promises to be the place to see all manner of new handsets and tablets.So we've trekked across the digital rumour-space and looked for all the info on what to expect from the Barcelona event - keep coming back as we'll be constantly updating it whenever some new morsel of info or spy shot comes into view.MicrosoftLast year we saw Microsoft unleash Windows Phone 7 officially onto the world in a Barcelona hotel, with Steve Ballmer calling the announcement a 'mile post' in the launch of the company's n...
Review: Lenovo ThinkPad Edge 11-inch
By TechRadar, published 02-09-2011
Lenovo is most famous for its business-focused ThinkPad laptops, but it also manufactures the ThinkPad Edge range – which has a more consumer focus to its design. The ThinkPad Edge 11-inch is the smallest in the range and makes a fantastically usable travelling companion.At only 11.6-inches diagonally, the screen could be considered to be small Nevertheless, we found it remarkably usable and the sharp 1366 x 768-pixel resolution produces very detailed images. Such a high resolution in such a small screen can produce very small menus and text, but this can be tweaked if required. The isolated keyboard is a triumph and, despite the diminutive size of the laptop's chassis, we found the keyboard spacious and a pleasure to type on – even beating the Dell Inspiron 15R for usability – so it...
Review: HP 625
By TechRadar, published 02-09-2011
HP is one of the world's best-selling laptop manufacturers and the 625 belongs to its business range. Boasting a wealth of features, if slightly underwhelming performance, this is a great machine for the corporate or home user after sheer functionality.While the 15.6-inch screen isn't the brightest around, it offers enough space to make viewing word documents and spreadsheets a pleasure. There's also no shiny screen coating, making this laptop easy to view in all light conditions – especially under harsh office lighting.The spacious keyboard provides a comfortable typing action, with the keys nicely spread out and with decent travel – regular typists will find it a joy to use. Strangely for a business laptop, there's no dedicated numeric keypad, although with better space management HP...
Review: Creative Ziio 7-inch
By TechRadar, published 02-08-2011
Tablets are the next big thing! They're brilliant! They're wonderful to use! They're super-convenient and awesome!That's what everybody is saying, isn't it? But where are all these brilliant devices that everyone's been squawking so loudly about?It's fairly safe to say that the tablet market hasn't exactly exploded in a whirlwind of fiery, world-beating über-tablets. Not yet, anyway.Until the likes of the BlackBerry Playbook, the Motorola Xoom and the Asus Eee Pads finally make their way onto the shelves and into our homes (not long, now), we're left with a fairly disjointed-looking product line-up.The latest Android tablet to grace the TechRadar office is the Creative Ziio 7-inch. It was announced last year alongside the Creative Ziio 10-inch, which has yet to hit the shops.At just £199...
In Depth: Tablets: reviews, news, tips and tricks
By TechRadar, published 02-07-2011
Our tablets round-up is constantly updated.2011 is the year of tablets. Inspired by the success of the iPad we're about to see a host of new tablets arrive from manufacturers including BlackBerry, Asus, Motorola, Dell and others.And iOS is no longer the only tablet operating system in town. Android tablets, Windows tablets and WebOS tablets are looking to topple Apple from its throne.At TechRadar we're on top of the latest tablet releases, bringing you breaking news, in-depth tablet reviews and tips and tricks to help you get the most from your new purchase.Below you'll find links to our articles about the tablets you can buy in 2011.Acer Iconia 7 and 10Acer has unveiled a triumvirate of new tablets, showcasing 7- and 10-inch Android tablets and a 10-inch Windows 7 tablet.Acer announces 7 ...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 02-05-2011
This week, an online crime map of the UK went live, and soon crashed under the weight of traffic, while a new PS3 update had some people criticising Sony for building in a backdoor that enables remote control of your console.Also on TechRadar we took a look at how the Motorola Xoom and PlayBook stack up against the iPad and updated our Android 3.0 article with a whole load of new features that are coming to the OS.Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesOnline crime map of the UK launchedThe Home Office has created a new website that allows you to look up towns in the UK and see what the crime is like in that area.The website, found at www.police.uk, is currently overburdened with worried folk who want to scare themselves even more by seeing just ho...
Updated: Android 3.0: all the latest updates
By TechRadar, published 02-04-2011
Now that Android 2.3 features are official, information about its successor, Android 3.0 – Android Honeycomb – is starting to emerge.Here's what we know about Android 3.0 so far. On 20 October, we reported that Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablets are rumoured to be heading out to engineers in time for Christmas. This has resulted in a huge range of tablets arriving at CES 2011, with UK release dates later in the year.Android 3.0 release dateAndroid 3.0 release date is looking like early 2011.UPDATE: In a video on All Things Digital posted on 7 December Google's Andy Rubin showed off a prototype Motorola Android 3.0 tablet and confirmed that the Android 3.0 release date will be "some time next year".Android 3.0 features and specificationsAs we reported earlier in July, a Russian podcast detai...
Updated: Android 3.0: all the latest updates
By TechRadar, published 02-04-2011
Now that Android 2.3 features are official, information about its successor, Android 3.0 – Android Honeycomb – is starting to emerge.Here's what we know about Android 3.0 so far. On 20 October, we reported that Android 3.0 Honeycomb tablets are rumoured to be heading out to engineers in time for Christmas. This has resulted in a huge range of tablets arriving at CES 2011, with UK release dates later in the year.Android 3.0 release dateAndroid 3.0 release date is looking like early 2011.UPDATE: In a video on All Things Digital posted on 7 December Google's Andy Rubin showed off a prototype Motorola Android 3.0 tablet and confirmed that the Android 3.0 release date will be "some time next year".Android 3.0 features and specificationsAs we reported earlier in July, a Russian podcast detai...
Review: Nokia C6-01
By TechRadar, published 02-03-2011
Overview and designThe Nokia C6-01 is the cheapest Symbian^3 handset to date - it's a definite update to the likes of the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic, and also comes with a relatively large amount of technology under the surface too considering its smaller dimensions.Considering that the Nokia C6-01 is the cheapest of the Symbian^3 offerings from Nokia at £279 direct from Nokia or free on contract, the build quality appears and feels more akin to that of some of it's E-Series predecessors, while its price tag is nearer that of the old Nokia 5800.The power button has been moved from the top of the device, as is usual on Nokia phones, to being combined with the Call End button. This could be initially confusing, but it improves the phones aesthetics.The first thing you note visually is the metal...
Review: Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse
By TechRadar, published 02-03-2011
The Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse is yet another innovative addition to the long-line of classic designs that the Microsoft Hardware group has blessed the world with over the years. The Arc Touch Mouse attempts to take style and function to a new level in the modern mouse world by combining a wireless portable mouse with touch-sensitive features and the BlueTrack sense system. The result is the Arc Touch. The name partly gives away its key design feature: a flexible rear section that doubles as the main wrist support and also folds flat turning the mouse off and leaving it perfect for carrying.Beyond its physical design, the Arc Touch mouse uses an Apple Magic Mouse besting touch-sensitive wheel. With built in haptic feedback this adds a sense of style beyond just its design through unobtrusiv...
In Depth: iOS vs Android vs WebOS vs MeeGo
By TechRadar, published 02-02-2011
Pitting iOS vs Android vs WebOS vs MeeGo doesn't seem like a fair fight. It's akin to putting a couple of our TechRadar writers in a boxing ring with the Klitschko brothers. With Apple's iPhone/iPod/iPad OS, Google's Android, plus the Symbian, Microsoft and Blackberry platforms, do we really need any more pretenders to the mobile OS throne?Yes - because 'competition drives innovation' (or so the saying goes). Android improvements will make iOS better and vice-versa. While lower-league operating systems will have to work harder to stand out, they'll help to ensure that the big two don't get complacent. And yes again - because beyond the smartphone battleground, the next big tech confrontation is about to be fought on tablet devices. It's not just a straight iPad vs Android face-off, either....
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 29-01-2011
Good news for iPhone and iPad owners – an official BBC iPlayer app is (probably) on its way.And the treat for Android fans is that the HTC Desire 2 has leaked ahead of Mobile World Congress 2011.This was also the week where the successor to the PSP2 – codenamed the Sony NGP – was announced. Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesHas Nintendo really blown its Wii 2 strategy?While Nintendo has recently announced its plans for the 3DS release across Europe, there are still questions to be answered about its – still to be revealed - strategy for 'Wii 2', with some observers questioning whether a 'two console strategy' could work in the future.One analyst in particular that seems to be gunning for Nintendo is Wedbush Securities analyst Micheal P...
The Daily Slash: January 29 2011
By SlashGear, published 29-01-2011
Welcome to the future of the smartdevice – no, it’s not Android 3.0 Honeycomb, we’re getting to that later – it’s Horizontal Symmetry. Grab a review or two from Chris Davies: the ZyXEL MWR211 Mobile Router and the AT&T MiFi 2372. A hacked NOOKcolor receives Android 3.0 Honeycomb on the same day we recieve official invites from Google to attend an Android Honeycomb Event – things are getting pretty sweet around Android Community. Take a peek at our LG Optimus 2X Full Walkthrough and Hands On. Discover the ease in downloading the hardware update released today for the Samsung Continuum on Verizon. See the first Motorola released Atrix 4G commercial – very lovely music and everything. All this and MORE on The Daily Slash! R3 Media Network Edito...
In Depth: Android Honeycomb: 10 things you need to know
By TechRadar, published 27-01-2011
Google unveiled its tablet-specific Android 3.0 OS at CES to a flurry of excitement thanks to some pretty exciting new tablet-focused additions to the already impressive OS. But, with a preview of the SDK only just released to developers, we won't be seeing Honeycomb on our Android tablets for a little while; in the meantime, whet your appetite with our round-up of the key new features. There'll be 3D-effect graphics You can't swing a cat without hitting something 3D (literally) in the tech world these days, and Google knows it. Honeycomb offers developers the opportunity to use high-performance 3D graphics which should offer no noticeable lag, even with the extra rendering required. This means we'll see 3D creeping into our apps, wallpapers and carousels as the developers get to grips wit...
Updated: 15 best Android tablets in the world
By TechRadar, published 26-01-2011
Our list of the best Android tablets in the world - regularly updatedIf you're looking for a tablet and don't fancy an iPad, then Android is the way to go: while Windows tablets are on the horizon, Android ones are here, they work and they've usually been tweaked to include finger-friendly interfaces too. We've gone from zero Android tablets to stacks of the things in a very short space of time, and inevitably some are better than others.Some have ten-inch screens, others seven and some just five, and there are big differences in battery life, processing power and on-board RAM. So which tablets are the most tempting? Let's find out.Samsung Galaxy Tab - £359 (Wi-Fi) / £499 (3G)On sale: NowSamsung's tablet becomes much more attractive thanks to heavy discounting: the first price above is f...
Review: Samsung SF310
By TechRadar, published 26-01-2011
Any new thin and light weighing in at £750 has a lot to prove in a crowded market. It needs to stand out stylistically, yet still offer strong value for money. It's not an easy task, because on one side you'll find Apple's impossibly thin MacBook Air redefining style, while on the other you have the ever-expanding glut of netbooks, typified by the likes of Samsung's own N230 proving that a little cash can go an incredibly long way if the right components are used. What hope is there for the likes of the SF310 then? What can it do to raise more than a passing interest?First impressions are positive – a run-down of the components list used in the Samsung SF310 will placate the techno savvy. The presence of an Intel Core i5 processor, Nvidia discrete graphics, LED screen and good storage o...
Updated: Mobile World Congress 2011: what to expect
By TechRadar, published 25-01-2011
After the sheer madness and reams of shiny gadgets of CES 2011, we barely have time to pause for breath before the annual mobile phone-a-thon of Mobile World Congress 2011 is upon us.While CES saw a near-record number of top end mobile phones released from the Las Vegas jamboree, MWC 2011 still promises to be the place to see all manner of new handsets and tablets.So we've trekked across the digital rumour-space and looked for all the info on what to expect from the Barcelona event - keep coming back as we'll be constantly updating it whenever some new morsel of info or spy shot comes into view.MicrosoftLast year we saw Microsoft unleash Windows Phone 7 officially onto the world in a Barcelona hotel, with Steve Ballmer calling the announcement a 'mile post' in the launch of the company's n...
Catch up: this week's most popular posts
By TechRadar, published 22-01-2011
iPhone 5 is going to be completely redesigned, invisible tanks are heading to the battlefields and the BlackBerry Storm 3 isn't so invisible now that images have leaked. These are just some of the top stories this week on TechRadar.Over in reviews, our in-depth look at Google TV proved popular as did our Motorola Flipout review and our updated Google Nexus S review.Read on for this week's most popular stories on TechRadar…Top five news storiesiPhone 5 set to be 'completely redesigned'Clues about Apple's forthcoming iPhone 5 have been leaked online, claiming that the new device will have a new powerful CPU and feature another redesign.Engadget is quoting 'extremely accurate' sources in saying that not only will the new device land in the summer (in line with every iPhone launch for the pa...
Super AMOLED Plus screens to rival Retina Display
By TechRadar, published 21-01-2011
Samsung is making some big steps into improving the screens on its mobile phones, with some more information revealing the technology behind the panels.There's real buzz surrounding the next generation of Samsung handsets as the screens are set to be as pin-sharp as those seen on the iPhone 4 and iPod touch.This is because Super AMOLED Plus will allow a screen quality over 300ppi. Currently the Retina Display shows content at 326ppi.I can see clearly nowOne of the first handsets to get the Super AMOLED will be the Samsung Galaxy S2, which is likely to be shown at Mobile World Congress 2011.Samsung has been one of the largest suppliers of OLED screens to the mobile industry over the last 18 months, with its first Super AMOLED technology winning rave reviews in the likes of the first Galaxy ...
Google NOT ruling out Chrome OS tablets
By TechRadar, published 21-01-2011
Google has moved to clarify its position on Chrome OS for tablets – with the company telling TechRadar that it is not ruling out its hardware partners adapting the operating system for touch-screens. Google has been consistent in its assertions that Chrome OS – at least in its first public incarnation – is designed for small laptops and netbooks. However, although a recent conversation with TechRadar underlined this once more, the company is keen to clarify that it is not as simple as considering that its Android OS is for touchscreens (ie phones and tablets) and Chrome OS for netbooks and laptops. Variety of form-factors"Chrome OS has been designed from the outset to work across a variety of form factors, but for this initial release, we've decided to focus on the notebook/laptop fo...
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