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Smartphones – The World in Your Pocket

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010

Will Smartphones replace the PC?

There is no universally agreed-upon definition as to what constitutes a Smartphone: for some, it is a mobile phone with operating system and other application software, for others, it is a phone with more capabilities and features than a standard mobile phone. No matter how you define it, this technological marvel has come a long way since IBM introduced the first Smartphone, called Simon, in 1992. In the 16 years since Simon was created, the Smartphone has evolved into a hybrid of a mobile phone and a PC.

From the start, these devices have been perfect for business travelers, making it possible to monitor email and keep track of appointments. Now, with Microsoft Windows Mobile software, one can have the convenience of the office on a Smartphone. Applications such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and of course, the internet can be accessed without the hassle of lugging around a laptop. Early versions of the Smartphone used handwriting or touchpad technology to send emails, but many models now come with QWERTY keyboards that provide more accuracy and ease of use.

In addition to the serious, work or school related features that make these devices so indispensable, most come with cameras, the capability to play DVDs and download music, and play games. Of course, of the growing number of available applications are not all about either work or fun and games. GPS Navigation software provides a level of convenience that many people find indispensable these days and, with so many features being added, having GPS Navigation software means much more than only finding one’s way around town.

The issue of security with Smartphones is an important one, given that so many business people use them. Currently, the devices are susceptible to hackers and vulnerable to viruses. Although some feel that these concerns are blown out of proportion by security providers, the industry is working on measures to make Smartphones more secure.

Another aspect that merits attention is the development of a variable geometry screen, which would be of benefit to many users. However, as the technology continues to explode, there will surely be new designs and features created to enhance the physical comfort and increase the efficiency of Smartphone users. Advances in the design and appearance of the device, along with more and more available software and programming options will surely increase the appeal of Smartphones to a wider audience.

Will Smartphones replace the PC? It certainly seems possible that, at the least, Smartphones will continue to grow in popularity. Their incredibly convenient size and versatility of design make them a favorite among business travelers, who tend to help dictate the direction of this wide-open area of technology. And, with the constantly growing availability of software applications, like Microsoft Windows Mobile and GPS Navigation systems, it would seem that eventually, there will be nothing a Laptop can do that cannot be accomplished with a Smartphone!

Author: M Salem
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Smartphones and PDA’s – The New Super Bundle

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010

As technology and commerce have advanced, business minded individuals have demanded to have communication devices that can keep up with the times. Cellphones were a revolution in themselves, but smartphones and pda’s are the next step in mobile communication evolution. Smartphones are drastically more versatile than any pc, infinitely smaller than laptops and are more feature-rich than most cellular phones.

Smartphones are in high demand because of the features included with these devices. With a single smartphone you could essentially replace your laptop, cellphone and blue tooth devices. Smartphones allow users to browse the internet, receive and send mail, download applications from the internet, listen to music and watch internet broadcasts.

Most smart phones now days are compact enough to fit into your pocket or purse easily. Smart phones can be very stylish as well. There are plenty of custom face plates and designs that can be added to your smartphone or pda. Another important feature of pda’s and smartphones are the integrated keypads and stylus. There are a variety of keyboards that can be used with these devices.

There are so many companies putting out smartphones and pda devices that the prices are much lower now than a few years ago. Studies show that smartphone sales are due to increase about 50% in the next few years. With the great features like email, integrated cameras, games, mp3 players and multimedia messaging it is no surprise that smartphones and pda’s are becoming the choice device for the business sector as well as for the average joe user. The two biggest sellers of smart phones and pda’s at the moment are HTC, Palm and Samsung.

Author: Mark Young
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Smartphones Becoming A Reality

Friday, February 12th, 2010

As technology continues to advance, telephones are becoming smarter and are in fact now being referred to as Smartphones. Smartphones are mobile devices that can carry out other functions, including storing personal data. When cell phones are combined with PDAs it becomes a Smartphone. A PDA is a Personal Digital Assistant or Palmtop. The majority of cellular phones on the market today could be classified as Smartphones.

Smartphones can be upgraded to perform other tasks. Many Smartphones can play MP3 Media and Audio recordings, can work as a digital camera, web camera, a video game console, calculator, a cell phone, digital photo viewer, or a remote control.

Technology is about to unveil new applications with Smartphones, the VoIP or VoWiFi Smartphones. The blueprint for tomorrow will empower Smartphones with the capacity to locate wireless connections at many hotspots. Although this technology is new, it is already gaining acceptance and customers eagerly wait for its arrival.

VoIP has already taken the world by storm and customers globally are abandoning the landlines and communicating over the Internet. Many Instant Messaging programs have turned to VoIP and users worldwide are at last experiencing the power of VoIP for themselves. Programs such as Yahoo Voice, MSN, AOL, ICQ, and even Google’s new instant messaging service are all equipped with voice. Your computer with a High Speed Internet Connection, coupled with speakers and a microphone, and speakers can be used for unlimited pc-to-pc calls worldwide.

Skype became one of the earliest Instant Messengers to offer free VoIP pc-to-pc calls. Skype is now making headlines again as it launches the Skype integrated VoIP Smartphone.

VoIP has become universally accepted and consumers far and wide are opting for the freedom, flexibility, and cost savings obtained by switching to VoIP. Wireless technology has merged with VoIP, and the future points to a wireless VoIP phone. These phones are known as VoWiFi, or Voice Over Wireless Fidelity.

Although there are still numerous issues and concerns pertaining to VoIP and wireless technology, the two are gaining momentum in both acceptance and demand. People demand smart products. Cell phones are already serving as dual video cameras, are able to browse the Internet, and can record music, video, and play computer games. There is no reason to expect that as WiFi becomes increasingly popular that WiFi phones won’t be even more intelligent.

The Skype Smartphone is currently designed to provide communications absolutely free between Skype users, and in all likelyhood will be free when using wireless hotspots, though this can’t be absolutely determined.

VoIP has faced numerous challenges and obstacles and is currently facing new rules and regulations by the FCC. Issues such as 911 and the facility to trace VoIP calls are making headline news. What the future has in store for VoIP and VoWiFi is uncertain, but major corporations are already preparing their services and developing products in anticipation that VoIP and WiFi are here to stay.

Certain security features need to be addressed and wireless networks will need to assure consumers that their data will remain secure before the world will surrender itself fully to wireless, but many people are already enjoying the cost savings from using VoWiFi phones in wireless hotspots. At least for now, no roaming charges apply to WiFi use, and users welcome this savings enthusiastically . Wireless will become the choice American businesses. Smartphones, VoWiFi with new wireless security, and new services and products are expected to hit the both the business and consumer markets full force.

As we anticipate new products and services, we can begin to explore the early stages of what this technology has to offer. Cingular has already begun their VoWiFi service and phones, and new wireless access spots are coming online daily. Before wireless completely replace the plug-in world, consumers will need to be assured that their data, voice communications, and E-mails will be positively safe. This includes upgrading security defence against viruses, Trojans, and worms, which could potentially infect wireless systems and affect the future of wireless VoWiFi Smartphones.

Author: Jay Mark
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Do You Know the Best Features to Have in a Smartphone?

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010

Smartphones have come a long way since the early days. Today’s Smartphones are faster, more useful, easier to use, and cheaper than yesterday’s Smartphones. However, the first thing you have to determine is your price range. A smart phone can be extremely cost effective or be exorbitantly priced. However, most users do not need any thing more expensive than an iPhone, as the iPhone is utility packed and has, for the most part, set the upward limit on reasonable smart phone prices. Expect to spend $300 on an iPhone, and about $200 on its closest competitors, such as the Palm Pre, Android G2, or Blackberry Storm.

The first and most important quality to look for in Smartphones is the intuitiveness of the user interface. The user interface is something that you will have to deal with each and every day. Most users who are happiest with their Smartphones made their decision almost solely based on their feeling toward their Smartphone’s user interface. While many users consider the iPhone’s interface to be king, many people in the business world actually prefer the Blackberry’s user interface, while those who are more computer savvy tend to prefer the Android. This largely comes down to personal preference, as today’s most competitive Smartphones all have fairly good user interfaces. Make sure you give every kind of Smartphone a whirl. If you can not use it for a few days, at least play for it for a few hours in the store.

The next quality is hardware. This includes the amount of storage, screen size and resolution, type of keyboard, processor and core speed, and quality of the camera. If you are planning on having your smart phone double as a music player, it is important you choose one with 16 gigabytes of hard drive storage or more. Most new Smartphones will either have this amount of storage, or much less. If you are uninterested in using your smart phone as a music player, then you want to focus on the processor and core speed and size and resolution of the screen. A large screen with a high resolution is great for being able to read emails clearly, reading eBooks, watching videos, using applications, and even playing video games. Most Smartphones have graphic acceleration, and there are a lot of video games being released that have superior graphics. The last hardware quality to watch out for is the keyboard. Some Smartphones have physical keyboards, while others have touchscreen keyboards. Many users greatly prefer the physical keyboard and can not stand to use a touch screen keyboard. Again, this comes down to your personal preference.

Finally, you should make sure your Smartphone’s carrier offers reasonable rates and service in your area. Most Smartphones are tied to a single carrier, some of which are more expensive than others and offer better quality. The quality of a provider’s service will vary city by city, so make sure you stay up on which cell phone service providers are offering the best, most affordable service in your city.

Author: DeMarcus Hill
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Mobile device news

Does a Smartphone Beat a Laptop?

Sunday, January 3rd, 2010

Smartphones are the latest must-haves for many people. Stationary work environments are a thing of the past as people are on the move and need to be able to take their work, family and friends with them. A smartphone is a new wave in cell phone technology that includes personal digital assistant capabilities too. They allow instant Internet access and have advanced features that are like a laptop.

Common Smartphone Features

* Cell phone

* E-mail access

* Organizer

* Touch-screen with high-resolution

* Camera

* Global positioning system

* Calendar

* Contact database

* Ability to read PDF files

* Music player

* Image viewer

* Video player

* Internet access

Computer Access from Cell Phones

The days of lugging around a large, weighted cell phone are gone. Today’s cell phones are slim, sleek and functional. Smartphones take that a step further and incorporate data management and computer use with cell phone technology. The idea has been well received and people are using smartphones for business and personal use.

The iphone is Apple’s latest and highly popular version of the smartphone. Other brands include Blackberry, Windows Mobile, Symbian, HTC Excalibur and Palm. These smartphones run on operating system (OS) software that allows them to share information from a computer or other interfaces. Such operating systems make it possible for users to access their computer files, graphics, history, memory, stage and more from their cell phones.

Common Operating Systems for Smartphones

1. Linux is one of the oldest operating systems in use and it is completely free. This system was created by a hobbyist and wasn’t taken seriously for many years, but it is still around and considered one of the best shareware programs.

2. Mac OSX is Apple’s version of a graphic operating system. It is a high-functioning program that turns a regular cell phone into a high-tech smartphone.

3. Solaris is Microsystem’s platform supported by Dell, HP and IBM. It is a trusted name in computers and smartphones. It works on a variety of interfaces to meet the growing demand for mobile PC usage.

4. Palm OS is based on the PDAs that hit the market in 1996. It is exceptional at keeping information organized and makes file management and storage a breeze. It is easy to use, has high graphic resolution, and uses a touch- screen model.

5. Microsoft Windows is probably the most recognized of the OS software programs. It makes Internet use on-the-go a reality.

Will Smartphones Replace Laptops or Home Computers?

Smartphones are high-end technical gadgets that are convenient because they combine cell phone features with organization and Internet access. New versions with improved features and greater capacity continue to emerge. Smartphones probably won’t replace laptops or home computers, though. As intelligent and sophisticated as smartphones are, they are not practical for long-term use. Smartphones are great supplemental tools for business, home office and entertainment purposes. But try spending eight hours in front of a tiny screen, reading, texting, copying or any other tasks you would normally do on your computer. It would not be a pleasant experience.

The Future of Smartphones

The future of smartphones is promising. We can look forward to increased battery power, larger memory capacity, the ability to watch TV and movies on the phone and the ability to be connected anytime, anywhere. Aside from better functionality, smartphones will be available in a variety of versions to appeal to a wider audience. As the competition for smartphones increases, the prices are dropping and they are becoming more accessible to everyone.

Author: Aaron Siegel
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Smartphones – Beyond Voice to Information and Entertainment

Thursday, December 31st, 2009

Investments in shares of wireless technology companies and wireless service providers have been particularly profitable in the post-dot com era. The wireless industry is in a sweet spot of the technology space. Bountiful business opportunities exist as wireless usage continues to increase in both developed and emerging markets. And driving this usage higher are new products such as smartphones whose capabilities are being augmented by the deployment of third generation (3G) wireless networks.

Feature-Rich Smartphones.

Smartphones are more than mobile phones. A smartphone is a mobile phone with built-in functions of a personal digital assistant. Smartphones pack a diverse range of features and functionalities into the handset that makes them a mobile information center and entertainment device for the user.

Smartphones commonly include features such as web browsing, e-mail, and multimedia capabilities. Certain models have enough horse power to run complex software applications such as enterprise customer relationship software and car navigation programs.

A full-featured QWERTY-type keyboard, MP3 player, and Geo Positioning Systems capability are becoming common among higher-end smartphones. Instant messaging is a cool feature making its way into the mainstream.

Smartphones, A Growing Segment of the Handset Market.

Smartphones represent a small, yet rapidly growing, segment of the handset market. According to Strategy Analytics, smartphone sales at 17.5 million units in 2004 accounted for 3% of the worldwide sales of 684 million handsets. However, this represents a significant jump from the 8.2 million units sold in 2003.

The demand for smartphones is projected to grow rapidly in the coming years. By 2009, the number of smartphone units sold is estimated to reach 125 million or 16% of total handset sales worldwide. This implies a 48% compound annual growth rate in smartphone unit shipments over the 2004-2009 period.

Smartphone Early Adoption Led by Asia and Europe.

Adoption of smartphones has been particularly rapid in Asia and Europe. The aggressive deployment of advanced wireless networks in these regions has encouraged early adoption of smartphones.

The Asia Pacific region currently accounts for about 37% of global smartphone sales with South Korea and Japan being leaders in smartphone usage. The European market accounts for 27% of global smartphone sales. Analysts expect smartphone sales in Europe to exceed sales in the Asian market in the coming years. North Americas market share in smartphone sales was expected to reach 25% by the end of 2004.

Nokia, the 800 lb. Gorilla of Smartphones.

Nokia (NYSE: NOK) is by far the dominant global smartphone manufacturer. The Finnish company is currently estimated to command half to two-thirds share of the global smartphone market.

Nokia recently introduced its feature-rich Nokia 7710 smartphone in Europe and Africa. The wide-screen Nokia 7710 smartphone includes a full Internet browser, an integrated music player, a camera with 2x digital zoom, and a FM radio. One of the nifty features of the Nokia 7710 smartphone is its ability to make weblogging mobile. Users can post pictures and text from the Nokia 7710 smartphone directly to the web through the moblog client.

Nokia is also expected to introduce the Nokia 3230 smartphone in the first quarter of 2005. The Nokia 3230 smartphone features a video recorder and Movie Director that will allow 1 hour of video to be captured.

Nokia is now increasingly looking at software licensing deals to help differentiate itself from its competitors. Nokia has recently signed licensing deals with Macromedia and RealNetworks. Nokia is also said to be working on handsets that will receive wireless television feeds.

Smartphone Investment Implications.

The increasing adoption of smartphones augurs well not only for Nokia but also for other smartphone manufacturers like palmOne (Nasdaq: PLMO) and Research In Motion (Nasdaq: RIMM). palmOne recently introduced the GSM edition of its Treo 650 smartphone. Research in Motion recently released the latest model in its BlackBerry 7100 series, the 7100g.

The incorporation of additional features and functionalities that make smartphones the portable information center and entertainment device of choice has bullish implications beyond just manufacturers of smartphones.

Wireless service providers like Vodafone (NYSE: VOD) should see their average revenue per user being buffeted with increasing use of value-added services that smartphones enable.

Then too, the increasing adoption and usage of smartphones will require the rollout of 3G wireless networks in earnest, translating into business opportunities for wireless network equipment providers such as Ericsson (Nasdaq: ERICY).

Notes: This report is for information purposes only. Nothing herein should be construed as an offer to buy or sell securities or to give individual investment advice. This report does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation, and particular needs of any specific person who may receive this report. The information contained in this report is obtained from various sources believed to be accurate and is provided without warranties of any kind. AlphaProfit Investments, LLC does not represent that this information, including any third party information, is accurate or complete and it should not be relied upon as such. AlphaProfit Investments, LLC is not responsible for any errors or omissions herein. Opinions expressed herein reflect the opinion of AlphaProfit Investments, LLC and are subject to change without notice. AlphaProfit Investments, LLC disclaims any liability for any direct or incidental loss incurred by applying any of the information in this report. The third-party trademarks or service marks appearing within this report are the property of their respective owners. All other trademarks appearing herein are the property of AlphaProfit Investments, LLC. Copyright 2005 AlphaProfit Investments, LLC. All rights reserved.

Author: Sam Subramanian
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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