Smartphones

Microsoft to launch more than 30 Windows Mobile 6.5 devices by end of year

Earlier in September, Microsoft revealed that the first batch of smartphones running Windows Mobile 6.5 would start shipping on October 6. Since then, we've already learned the identities of some of the devices, including the HTC Touch2 and the Sony Ericsson Xperia X2. LG said it will introduce three new Windows Mobile phones in the next few weeks, and Samsung has revamped its Omnia line with Windows Mobile 6.5. Not a bad showing, but it looks like it's only the beginning.

According to Benjamin Tan, senior director of the GCR Mobile Team Unit at Microsoft China, … Read more

Five iPhone apps that can save you money

As I often tell people, it's not the price of the iPhone that bothers me--it's the monthly fees! (Grumble, grumble, AT&T, grumble.)

Alas, while there's no way to get around that $70/month minimum, at least I can use my iPhone to save money on other things: gas, groceries, books, DVDs, and even energy. Let's take a look at five killer apps that can help you pocket extra cash.

BetterDeal Next time you find yourself standing in a supermarket trying to figure out which size box of corn flakes provides the best bang for … Read more

Digital City Podcast 50: Microsoft's tablet plans; an HD Wii; and AT&T's Microcell scheme

Episode 50 of the Digital City, where we discuss Microsoft's plans to take on Apple in both smart phones and tablet PCs; the rumor of an HD refresh of the Nintendo Wii console; and AT&T's Microcell device for improving cell phone reception in your home through a $150 gadget (that they'll be happy to sell you).

Also noteworthy, this is our very first show in our new prime timeslot of 3pm EST on Mondays, rather than the old Friday afternoon slot -- so set your Outlook calendar reminders appropriately. Plus, if you're a fan … Read more

AT&T customers, check your plan once in a while

I've been a customer of AT&T ever since 2003, when I got myself my first cell phone ever, and I've been a very good one. The proof: I set my bill to autopay from day one and even convinced a few friends to move to AT&T (mostly so that we don't have to use the minutes to talk to each other.)

I found out Thursday that AT&T hasn't been very nice to me. … Read more

Crave giveaway of the week: iSkin accessory collection

For this week's installment of the weekly Crave giveaway, we're offering up a package of goodies from iSkin, which makes some sweet cell phone and laptop accessories.

The photo above depicts what's in the package but here's the itemized list for you to ponder:

iSkin Soho ($59.99) iSkin ProTouch Vibes ($29.99) ProTouch for Apple Mighty Mouse ($19.99) iSkin Cerulean F1 Stereo Bluetooth Headset ($99.99) Winner's choice of an iPhone case or BlackBerry case ($32.99) Normally, this package would cost around $250, but you have the chance to get the whole … Read more

Samsung refreshes its Omnia smartphone series

On Thursday, Samsung introduced the newest addition to its Omnia smartphone series: the Samsung Omnia Pro B7330. In addition, the company revealed that all of its Omnia models will run Windows Mobile 6.5 and it will release upgrades to current products on the market now.

The Omnia Pro B7330 is expected to ship in October and is designed for the mobile professional. It features a slate design with a full QWERTY keyboard and 2.62-inch QVGA nontouch display. The quad-band (GSM 850/900/1800/1900) smartphone includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and assisted GPS. In addition, it has a 3-megapixel camera, … Read more

World's cheapest, ugliest iPhone case

Marketing and PR folks take note. In one of the more brilliant publicity stunts in recent memory, iPhone accessory maker Case-mate is going downscale. Really downscale. And green, too.

It's created a 99-cent cardboard "recession" case along with free "Sharpie Script" personalization (yes, some dude or dudette will inscribe your case by hand). And these babies can be bought in bulk: Case-mate is offering 10 for $7.99.

I'm impressed. This is something you'd expect to see from the Onion News Network, not from a real tech company. And while the recession has … Read more

Sprint HTC Hero reviewed

Sprint was one of the first carriers to join the Open Handset Alliance when it was founded in November 2007 to promote Google Android. However, unlike T-Mobile, which released the T-Mobile G1 and the T-Mobile MyTouch 3G, the carrier wasn't so quick to offer an Android handset to its customers because it simply didn't think the operating system was "good enough"; that is, until now.

Starting on October 11, Sprint will offer its first Android device, the HTC Hero, for $179.99 with a two-year contract and unlimited data plan. We've actually had a few … Read more

Dialed In 96: We see the Palm Pixi and Moto Cliq

After their unveiling last week, we've had a chance to handle the Palm Pixi and the Android Motorola Cliq. A full review will have to wait, but Bonnie gives you her first take on the new devices. We also catch you up on other cell phone news, our latest reviews, and Nicole makes a bad pun.

Subscribe now: iTunes (audio) | iTunes (video) | RSS (audio) | RSS (video)

News AT&T introduces A-List Sprint offers unlimited calling to any cell phone LG enters Android fray with GW620 First impressions: Motorola Cliq Verizon to offer HTC Touch Pro2 for $200 Hands on with the Palm Pixi … Read more