• Sony Xperia Z1

    The best of Sony for the best of you.

  • Acer Aspire S7

    Premium Ultrabook.

  • Apple iOS 7

    The mobile OS from a whole new perspective.

  • Microsoft Surface Pro

    Stellar. Performance.

  • Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom

    The only smartphone with 10x optical zoom.


Friday, March 28, 2014


Microsoft's Office Mobile apps for Android and iPhone are now completely free for all home users. The company has done away with the need for an Office 365 subscription, opening up the full document viewing and editing capabilities of each app. It's a clever move that will quickly make Office an essential download for many users. No one likes making changes to a spreadsheet on a 4-inch screen, so it makes sense for Microsoft to give the software away in hopes of steering users to its desktop Office software and the all-new iPad version — which still requires an annual $99 Office 365 subscription if you want to edit anything.

The free Office apps are intended "for home use" according to Microsoft's update notes, which implies the company may still plan to hold businesses to that Office 365 requirement. But realistically speaking, that would be a difficult model to enforce. As The Next Web notes, employees can simply install the software on their personal phones and use it for work purposes. Microsoft is of course well aware of this, but since the free apps will help push more people to its cloud services in some way, it's doubtful the company cares all that much. If you're someone who relies on Office to get critical tasks done, odds are you'll still be paying for it in some way.

via The Verge http://www.theverge.com/2014/3/27/5555330/microsoft-makes-office-mobile-completely-free
photo from http://www.trustedreviews.com/news/office-mobile-lands-for-iphone-uk-users-left-out-in-the-cold

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Glimpse on the new Nikon D5300


Nikon will finally unveil its latest mid-level DSLR, Nikon D5300! This new model will sit above Nikon D5200 and below the Nikon D7000.

Majority of the D5300's specification is the same as the D5200, but perhaps one of the most significant changes from the D5200 is the switch to the new EXPEED 4 processing engine which gives Nikon a greater power to improve image quality and greater control to noise and sensitive settings. While the D5200's native sensitivity range is ISO 100-6400, the D5300's has been pushed a stop further to ISO 100-12,800. This suggests that the EXPEED 4 engine enables a 1EV improvement in noise control. Interestingly, maximum expansion setting is the same at ISO 25,600.

In addition, Nikon has encouraged shooting from creative angles by boosting the size of the vari-angle LCD screen to 3.2-inches and increasing its dot-count to 1,037,000.



Another significant change is that D5300 now supports Wi-Fi and GPS technology. The Wi-Fi connectivity allows the camera to transfer images wirelessly to a smartphone or table via Nikon's free Wireless Mobile Utility app (iOS and Android). From there images can be shared on any of the usual social networking sites. The same app can also be used to trigger the shutter remotely.

Meanwhile the GPS system allows images to be tagged with the longitude, latitude and altitude of the shooting location. Nikon's ViewNX 2 software can be used to create travel maps which can be displayed on NIKON IMAGE SPACE, or any other social networking or photo-sharing website that support GPS, such as Flickr.



As usual, the D5300 is capable of shooting Full HD (1920x1080) movies, but the available frame rates has been expanded to include 60 and 50p as well as 30, 25 and 24p. The Nikon D5300 body measures 125 x 98 x 76mm and weighs 480g to come in lighter than the D5200. To achieve this lighter weight Nikon says it eliminated the conventional chassis and adopted a “monococque structure” made of “new materials” for the outer frame, allowing the body shape to be lighter and more compact. The camera also comes with a new battery and what Nikon says is a more efficient power circuit, allowing photographers to achieve approximately 600 single frames per charge, or 50 minutes worth of movies.

The Nikon D5300 bodies come in black, red, and gray and would be released this 2nd week of November 2013.

Sources:
http://nikonrumors.com/2013/10/16/this-is-the-nikon-d5300.aspx/
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/cameras-and-camcorders/cameras/digital-slrs-hybrids/nikon-d5300-1190188/review?src=rss&attr=all
http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2013/10/17/nikon-d5300-price-specs-release-date-confirmed/

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Sony Xperia Z1: The Best of Sony

What's the best in Sony? Well, their new smartphone Sony Xperia Z1 will tell us what.


Sticking to their previous designs lately made of glass, Xperia Z1 also continues the legacy. Its front and back are made of glass and its sides are made up of aluminum making a seamless design and again making the phone waterproof and dust resistant. And following Sony's unique design principles, this smartphone offers balance and symmetry in all directions, no matter how you're holding it, feeling is always the same.


Built with the latest Sony Bravia technologies optimised for mobile, the new Xperia Z1 has a large, high-resolution 5" full HD TRILUMINOS display, 1920 x 1080, 44i pixels per inch, that'll give you a razor sharp, crispy, and incredibly bright display.

With the new Xperia Z1, there will be sharper, clearer, and brighter photos because with an 8.5 mm smartphone comes with a large 1/2.3" 20.7 megapixel Exmor RS for mobile image sensor that captures more light from the scene creating high definition images. The senor enables higher sensitivity that decreases noise to ensure smooth clearer reproduction of every stunning detail of your photo.


Powered by the world's fastest smartphone processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, the phone's gives you maximum power and speed with outstanding battery. Also, your phone has a built-in LTE/4G modem that enables blazing inernet connections.

Tech Specs:
  • Operating system           Google Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean)
  • Processor                      2.2 GHx Qualcomm MSM8274 Quad Core
  • GPU                              Adreno 330
  • Size                              144.4 x 73.9 x 8.5 mm
  • Weight                         169 grams
  • Available colors              Black, White, Purple
  • SIM card                        micro SIM
  • Colors                           16,777,216 color TFT
  • Resolution                      1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Screen                          5.0 inches
  • Touch                            Multi-touch capacitive, up to 10-point
  • RAM                              2 GB
  • Flash memory               Up to 16 GB
  • Expansion slot               micro SD, up to 64 GB
  • Camera resolution          20.7 MP Exmor RS
  • Digital zoom                  8x
  • Video recording             HD 1080p
  • Front caera                    HD 1080p for video chat, 2MP camera
  • Sensors                        Accelerometer, Proximity, Ambient light, Magnetometer, Gyroscope
  • Connectivity                  Wi-Fi 802.11 and Bluetooth 4.0

In the days leading up to the Surface RT release last year, Microsoft had largely failed to explain the differences between Windows 8 and Windows RT to consumers. The software maker picked the Windows RT moniker to power its own ARM-based Surface RT tablet alongside others from PC makers. Dell urged Microsoft to drop the branding, and Samsung opted not to launch its own Windows RT tablets in the US because of confusion and weak demand. Now Microsoft has admitted its decision to drop the "RT" brand from its upcoming Surface 2 tablet was to address consumer confusion.

In an interview with Australian publication ARN, Microsoft Surface product manager Jack Cowett admits the RT name was confusing for customers. "We think that there was some confusion in the market last year on the difference between Surface RT and Surface Pro," admits Cowett. "We want to help make it easier for people, and these are two different products designed for two different people." Microsoft first released its Surface RT tablet under the name "Microsoft Surface with Windows RT," but the company soon dropped the full name for Surface RT shortly afterwards.

The confusion is likely down to two aspects: a Windows RT name that means nothing to consumers and the availability of a traditional Windows desktop that's restricted to Microsoft Office and a few system utilities. While Microsoft is releasing a new Surface 2 tablet without the RT moniker, the Windows RT 8.1 operating system still retains the desktop without the ability to run traditional desktop applications. The latest software (8.1) improves access to settings and options in the "Metro-style" view, so consumers won't need to access the desktop as frequently, but its existence could still lead to confusion this time around.

Microsoft has been left alone as the single supporter of Windows RT with its upcoming Surface 2 tablet. Dell, Lenovo, Asus, and Samsung have no Windows RT-based products coming to market this holiday season and it's unclear if and when these PC makers will opt for Windows RT again. Nokia is rumored to be preparing to unveil a Windows RT-based Lumia 2520 tablet later this month which will likely be released in November. However, Microsoft is acquiring Nokia's devices business in a deal that will close in early 2014, meaning it will still be the single supporter of its ARM operating system. While Surface RT may have been confusing for some, Microsoft is aiming to explain to consumers why they'd want to buy a Surface 2 this holiday season. A focus on creativity and power is clear, but the company will need to do more to ensure it avoids the slow sales that plagued its original Surface RT tablet.

via http://www.theverge.com/2013/10/13/4833408/surface-rt-naming-caused-some-confusion
source http://www.arnnet.com.au/article/528867/surface_rt_confusing_microsoft/

Monday, October 14, 2013


Three of the stand-out contenders for the throne of the best Android smartphone has put into a test. Which is the most elegant?  Which is the most powerful? Which is the most approved? Which is the best among these biggest phones of 2013? Is it the Samsung Galaxy S4, the HTC One or the Sony Xperia Z? Well each of them have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to hardware, speed and fluidity, and other not-so-significant-data. But let's try to chunk them down for comparison's sake and also, I like battles.

This video shows hands-on with these three devices:


Now let's look at each phones specifications. To wrap them up:


With specs, there are slight differences between the three. If you are the meticulous and precise type, you should focus on their differences in aesthetics, processor, and camera. Nevertheless, it's all upon the user's necessity and preferability.

So which phone wins? It's on you.

Sunday, October 13, 2013

Unwrapping the Kit Kat


As what Google says "Prepare for a sweet new treat", we absolutely should be excited for the releasing of it's newest and most advanced mobile operating system, the Android 4.4 or simply Kit Kat!

Google announced the name of its next Android OS update last month, surprisingly coming from Nestle's famous chocolate Kit-Kat. It follows the release of the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean which was announced this July along with the Nexus 7 tablet. There have been some leaked photos of the interface of the Kit Kat running in the Google Nexus 5:


The very noticeable changes include the default wallpaper which have been more glossy and more beveled. Some of the icons were also changed from squared now circled. There were also new apps added. These are only some of the visible changes to this OS update but who knows? There should be lots of improvements we ought to be excited for.

So when is it going to be released? According to some rumors, Kit Kat would be available this October or November 2013.

Simple Java Notepad Application

Problem:
Using your skills in developing a Graphical User Interface using both AWT or Swing package, event handling, and IO manipulation, create a simple notepad application in a form of an executable JAR file.

Sample output:


/**SAMPLE CODE BEGINS HERE

import java.awt.*;
import java.awt.event.*;
import javax.swing.*;
import java.io.*;
import java.util.Scanner.*;

public class MyNotepad implements ActionListener
{
//containers
private JFrame f;
private JPanel p;
//components
private JTextArea a;
private JButton bLoad, bSave, bClear, bClose;
public MyNotepad()
{
//containers
f = new JFrame("Je-Ar's Simple Notepad");
p = new JPanel();
//components
a = new JTextArea();
bLoad = new JButton("Load noname.txt");
bSave = new JButton("Save noname.txt");
bClear = new JButton("Clear noname.txt");
bClose = new JButton("Close noname.txt");
}
public void launchFrame()
{
//grid layout for panel p
p.setLayout(new GridLayout(1,4));
p.add(bLoad);
p.add(bSave);
p.add(bClear);
p.add(bClose);
//border layout for frame f
f.add(a, BorderLayout.CENTER);
f.add(p, BorderLayout.SOUTH);
f.setSize(600,400);
f.setVisible(true);
//register the event handlers
bLoad.addActionListener(this);
bSave.addActionListener(this);
bClear.addActionListener(this);
bClose.addActionListener(this);
f.addWindowListener(new MyCloseButtonHandler());
}
//event handler
public void actionPerformed(ActionEvent ae)
{
Object source = ae.getSource();
if (ae.getSource() == bLoad)
{
try
{
File myFile = new File("noname.txt");
BufferedReader in = new BufferedReader(new FileReader(myFile));
String str;
while ((str = in.readLine()) != null)
{
a.setText(str);
}
in.close();
}
catch (Exception ex) 
                                System.out.println(ex.getMessage());
}
}
else if (source == bSave)
{
try 
{
File myFile2 = new File("noname.txt");
PrintWriter output = new PrintWriter(new FileWriter(myFile2));
output.write(a.getText());
output.close();
}
catch (Exception ex) 
                                System.out.println(ex.getMessage());
}
}
else if (source == bClear)
{
a.setText(null);
}
else if (source == bClose)
{
System.exit(0);
}
else {}
}
private class MyCloseButtonHandler extends WindowAdapter
{
public void windowClosing(WindowEvent ae)
{
System.exit(0);
}
}

public static void main(String args[])
{
MyNotepad mn = new MyNotepad();
mn.launchFrame();
}
}

END OF SAMPLE CODE */

To compile via command prompt, type in: javac MyNotepad.java
To run via command prompt, type in: java MyNotepad

To create a JAR file with a manifest, first create a manifest file which is in .txt format. For this source code, type in to notepad: Main-Class: MyNotepad <enter>. Remember that the <enter> is important for it to be read by Java.

Next, in the command prompt, type in: jar cvfm MyNotepad.jar manif.txt *.


Numerous lines of codes will appear but don't worry, Java is making the action for finalization which is running your JAR file.
To run the executable JAR file, type in: java -jar MyNotepad.jar

And kaboom. You've just created your simple notepad application. Just posted this because I got nerve-cracks on coding the extended version of this program. This actually isn't finished. What if the user entered a file name via command line? The default file name noname.txt would no longer be used but the inputted file name of the user instead. It may sound strange and confusing but it's a matter of playing with the codes, but for now, I'll just share this simple code with you guys. Hope this helps!

Windows 8.1 is here!



Microsoft's releasing of its newest operating system Windows 8 has been a blast for Windows users because of the all-new features especially the new interface of the Start screen. But Microsoft has not stopped giving us a blast for they will unveil once again a new and upgraded operating system, Windows 8.1.




Originally called Windows Blue, the Windows 8.1 is similar to the previous version, but there are a lot of improvements and new features added to this cool operating system. Some of them are the comeback of the Start button, personalized lock screen and even more personalized tiles - from differentiation of colors to sizes. Search has been aggregated which means Windows will give you more of the information you need - from your files, apps, and even from the internet, of course powered by Bing. Multitasking has also been improved and we can now have the 50:50 screen ratio for multitasking. Skydrive is now also the default file location for saving files so we can access our files anywhere and anytime we want, even if we're offline. Internet Explorer has also been upgraded into a fast and more fluid browser most especially made for touch-enabled devices. The Windows explorer also become fluid and partly redesigned for best file browsing experience.




Windows 8.1 will begin rolling out worldwide as a free update for existing users of Windows 8 through the Windows Store. Windows 8.1 will also be available at retail and on new devices starting on October 18 by market.

Full details http://windows.microsoft.com/en-ph/windows-8/preview
Photos from: http://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/windows-blue-update-to-build-on-and-improve-windows-8-1131737

Sony Vaio T

After switching from Asus to Acer to numerous leading laptop brands, finally, I have brought a new laptop that would replace my old Toshiba Satellite L200: this classy Sony Vaio T series.




For years, I've been looking for a laptop that would meet my standards. I founded some but the problem is that we don't have sufficient money to buy a new one during those times. My old machine's specifications is nothing compared to today's versions. Its system also is slow so I have to look for a replacement. Also, our professor in programming encourages us to bring our own machines or development kits so that we can do our programs in our own phase and convenience. A doctor has a stethoscope, engineers have T-squares, and programmers should have their own personal computers. So I guess this was the perfect time to buy a new one.



This 13.3" laptop with aluminum body, LED display, weighing only 1.6 kg, powered by 3rd generation Intel Core i5 processor, 500GB SSD, and operated by Windows 8 64-bit, definitely is quite powerful and suits me. Though this wasn't my first choice when we were in Sony Vaio Centre in Robinsons Place Manila (my first choice was the T series with touch capacity and 14" display), still, this Sony Vaio T is already a high-end machine and it can already accommodate my needs as a programmer, editor, and simply as a student.




This is my second laptop since Grade 6. I'm also proud of this laptop because it's from my refunded tuition fee and my monthly allowance because I'm now a working scholar so technically, it's my own money. I'll surely love this machine and I'll promise to be productive as I can be as a computer student lol of course also for games, movies, watching videos, chatting, social networking yess new device for all of them!

Acer Aspire S7

The laptop I'm currently using is the Toshiba Satellite L200. It was a graduation gift from my parents when I finished elementary. I'm already in college and yes, my laptop's already 5 years old. It still has the Pentium processor, and was initially ran by Windows Vista. It has poor memory, it still doesn't have a web camera, bluetooth  and is ultimately heavy and thick, unlike the laptops coming out from the market nowadays. And of course, as a computer student, this laptop of mine sucks. I mean, it doesn't fit for me. Maybe before, but now? Not anymore. Although I recently upgraded its operating system into Windows 8, still, the system's running very slow and because I have no other choice, I have to bear with its performance. Of course, I have planned of replacing it through the years but we don't still have the capacity of buying a new one, but now that I need a computer that I can use in my studies, I am planning to replace it very soon.

I've been looking in the online market the latest laptops and their latest technology. I once been hooked by Lenovo, then by Asus, and just today, Acer. Acer's latest model is this Aspire S7 and as I reviewed every article about this ultrabook, I madly fell in love with it.

Three words: Sexy. Superb. Smart.



SEXY

The Acer Aspire S7 is an ultrabook and is radically ultra thin to just merely 12.2 millimeters, and for a 13.3" laptop, it is super lightweight weighing just merely 2.6 pounds. What's amazing about this ultrabook is its white Gorilla glass finish that makes it strong and scratch resistant, while its body is finished with aluminum. Of course we have the usual keyboard and has a relatively large touch pad. And because of its sleekness, you have the freedom to go anywhere, carefree, and looking fabulous.



SUPERB

The Acer Aspire S7 is powered by a 1.9 GHz 3rd generation Intel Core i7-3517U processor with 4GB, 1600 MHz DDR3 RAM. Storage is pretty good on 256GB SSD. It is in full HD 1920x1080 screen resolution and is powered by Intel HD4000. Of course, it has the newest operating system, Windows 8. And lastly, the amazing part about this ultrabook is that it opens up to 180 degrees. The HD screen is actually a 10-point multi touch screen which means you can maximize the use of the operating system. On just specifications, it is absolutely a high-end device.



SMART

On hardware, it has 2 2.0 USB ports and 1 3.0 USB port, mini HDMI port, audio jack, and SD card reader. The keyboard is also LED backlit that means you can work on dim environments. The screen also automatically adjusts its brightness depending on your environment. It has also vents at the back part. Its cooling system is smart where one vent is letting the air flow in and the other flowing the air out which means you can always put it on your lap without the device getting hot.


This laptop is simply amazing and seems perfect for me. On price, the 13.3" version is shockingly about P 75,000. Yeah, the price is superb also haha but I really want this ultrabook and I will make up for the price. Hopefully I can get it this year. I badly need a new baby.


Disclaimer:
Photos not mine. Credits to the owner of them.
Full details on Acer Aspire S7 on the following links: