Wednesday 19 December 2012

Samsung takes the top spot for 2012 cell phone shipments, Nokia 2nd, Apple 3rd


Samsung takes the top spot for 2012 cell phone shipments, Nokia 2nd, Apple 3rd


The numbers are finally starting to come out for the mobile ecosystem, even though 2012 isn't quite over yet. IHS iSuppli has released its estimations for which cell phone manufacturers shipped the most devices in 2012, and for the first time in 14 years, Samsung has taken the top spot in cell phone shipments, pushing Nokia to 2nd place, and Apple held steady in 3rd place as far as total cell phone shipments, and 2nd in the smartphone segment.

Samsung takes the top spot for 2012 cell phone shipments, Nokia 2nd, Apple 3rd
According to the data, Samsung is expected to account for 29% of global cell phone shipments in 2012, with Nokia at 24%. This is almost a perfect reversal from last year when Nokia had 30% of cell phone shipments and Samsung had 24%. Impressively, Apple takes 3rd place on total cell phone shipments with 10%, even though Apple only makes smartphones, and no feature phones, unlike Samsung and Nokia. 

On the smartphone side of things, Samsung retains the top spot with 28% of global smartphone shipments, and that extends Samsung's lead over Apple, which held 20% of smartphone shipments. Last year, Samsung had 20% compared to Apple's 19%. The smartphone side also shows how Nokia lost its overall lead as it dropped from 16% of smartphone shipments in 2011 to just 5% in 2012. HTC and RIM also came in at 5% of smartphone shipments this year.

WhatsApp will not be supporting BlackBerry 10


WhatsApp will not be supporting BlackBerry 10
RIM has been doing its part to keep the excitement and the anticipation levels high for the upcoming release of BlackBerry 10 next month. We have seen a lot of companies lining up to bring their applications to the new platform. 

Unfortunately, WhatsApp will not be one of those applications. WhatsApp is a nicely executed cross-platform instant messaging service that provides delivery confirmation.  It also has proven to be a consistent performer and has about 20 millions users. The app is currently available across most smartphone operating systems, Android, iOS, BlackBerry 7, Windows Phone, even Symbian and Nokia S40. After receiving an inquiry about the upcoming BlackBerry 10 release, the response from WhatsApp said simply, “We have no plans to support BlackBerry 10 at the moment, sorry.”

Okay, so you see “at the moment” and think, “Well, that means they might support it later!” We do not want to rob you of that ray of hope, so hold on to it if you want to. Alas, as it stands now, at best case, WhatsApp will not be available when BlackBerry 10 launches.  However, it is certainly reasonable to think that WhatsApp would develop their app for BlackBerry 10 if it proves to be the success that RIM says it will be.

source: CrackBerry.com

Monday 10 December 2012

BBM on BlackBerry 10 shows you recommended contacts with BlackBerry Messenger


BBM on BlackBerry 10 shows you recommended contacts with BlackBerry Messenger


BBM on BlackBerry 10
BBM on
BlackBerry 10 will bring a new set of features to BlackBerry Messenger, although it will remain compatible with the current version. One of the new features is called the BBM Recommended contacts tab and it provides you with a list of names from your contacts list that have BBM, Keep in mind that you won't be able to see any PIN numbers, but you will be able to invite anyone on the list to chat. It's similar to a feature on the BlackBerry PlayBook video chat app which shows you which of your contacts has the app so that you can engage in,well, video chatting.

RIM is saying to expect a number of changes to BBM with BlackBerry 10. The official introduction of BB10 is set for January 30th. Meanwhile,  RIM's shares continue to move higher as investors are voting with their cash that BlackBerry 10 will be a major success. The stock has nearly doubled off of lows made during August and September.

source: BerryReview

BBM Groups on BlackBerry 10
BBM Groups on BlackBerry 10
BBM Groups on BlackBerry 10

And that's how an iPhone 5 looks like after 2 months of use


And that's how an iPhone 5 looks like after 2 months of use


The iPhone 5 is as sleek and beautiful as it is susceptible to dents and scratches. Even a small percentage of new units came with nicks right out of the box, which eventually led to Apple tightening up quality control measures at the iPhone 5 assembly lines. That said, can you imagine how one of them would look like after being used for a couple of months?

No need to visualize anything because someone has already done that for us. In the photos below we have two black iPhone 5 handsets, one of which has been encased since the very same day it was purchased, while the other has seen a lot of unprotected action. Both of them have been in use for about 2 months now. Obviously, it is quite easy to tell which one is which.

This, of course, is just a single case, but it clearly demonstrates that if you don't handle your iPhone 5 with care, it will get bruised sooner or later. And for most of us, paying $99 to have the damage fixed just isn't an option. But at the end of the day, do a few nicks matter? After all, despite being prone to scratching, Apple's newest smartphone is still a durable device, as those numerous iPhone 5 drop tests have shown. Perhaps you'd like to share your thoughts on this with us? If that's the case, sound it off below!

source: Gizmodo

The iPhone 5 two months later. One with a case, and one without.
The iPhone 5 two months later. One with a case, and one without.
The iPhone 5 two months later. One with a case, and one without.
The iPhone 5 two months later. One with a case, and one without.
The iPhone 5 two months later. One with a case, and one without.

Thursday 6 December 2012

Casio G-Shock watch brings iPhone connectivity to your wrist




The GB6900AA will be available in four colors.
The GB6900AA will be available in four colors.
For some people, the cellphone has replaced the simple wristwatch. However, you may be tired of whipping out the smartphone to tell time, only wishing that your watch could do more, and do all that while able to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle.

There is a watch for that: The Casio G-Shock GB6900AA. Using Bluetooth 4.0, it syncs to your iPhone and will provide email, phone call, and calendar notifications. It is arguably not as sophisticated as some other smartphone-linking watches, but the G-Shock does make efficient use of its power, which comes from a traditional button-cell CR2032 battery.

Aside from the traditional “watch” features, the G-Shock can be calibrated to vibrate on notifications which can then be silenced simply by double-tapping on the screen of the watch. The watch also serves as a tether to alert you if it should lose a connection and fall out of range of your iPhone. The G-Shock Bluetooth retails for $180.00, is available in four colors, black, brown, white and silver/blue, and is compatible with the iPhone 5 and iPhone 4S.

via: Mashable

4 Great reasons to go gaga


The Gaga Andriod smartphone is Etisalat’s customized 3G-enabled smartphone for undergraduates, young professionals and other data consuming individuals with high 3G expectations.
The Gaga Android smartphone, operates on android 2.2 and boasts of features including a 2.8 inch full capacity touch screen, accelerometer functionality, Wi-Fi and Wi-FI hotspot, fast internet download speed of up to 7.2Mbps, Bluetooth functionality, FM radio, a 3.2MP camera and Document viewer for word, excel, PDF, and Adobe flash. It also has the capability of downloading applications, email-on-the-go, document viewing and editing on the go, large memory size for storage, Google maps and satellite navigation.
Click here to view the Frequent Asked Questions(FAQ)
Prices The Etisalat Gaga Andriod Smartphone is affordably priced at N13,999. That is not all, you also enjoy special offers including:
  • Free monthly 50MB for 4 months (Free 200MB in total)
  • Cheapest call rates of 20kobo/sec with no access fee for first 4 months and for subsequent months on purchase of consistent data plans. 
  • Specification
Features:
  • Android 2.2 Smartphone
  • 2.8 inch full capacity touch screen
  • Accelerometer function
  • HSDPA of up to 7.2 Mbps
  • Etisalat customized device(Hardware & Software)
  • Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Bluetooth function, FM radio and GPS functionality
  • 3.2 MP camera.
  • Document viewer; word, excel, PDF, Adobe flash.  Source: Abdulkadir S. Lapai

Samsung Galaxy S IV release date set for April 2013, may feature an "unbreakable" screen


Samsung Galaxy S IV release date set for April 2013, may feature an


Yeah, that's what we want to see - more rumors and info about the Galaxy S IV! What's undoubtedly the most successful series of Android models will surely return next year for another record-breaking launch.

The thing is that this latest rumor suggests that Samsung will be looking to release the Galaxy S IV in April 2013 - a month earlier than the Galaxy S III, which was launched in May this year. The sources do not bother to explain why they think so, but on the other hand, they let us know that Samsung might have a secret weapon in the works for the GS IV. It seems that the so-called Project J (codename for the GS IV) may come with a new type of screen, which is being referred to as "unbreakable". We have absolutely no idea how this "breakthrough" unbreakable screen has been achieved, but if this really turns out to be true, then it will be one great selling point for the Galaxy S IV.

In addition, the sources confirm our expectations of a larger and higher-resolution screen, possibly one with pixel density of 441 ppi - a big upgrade compared to the Galaxy S III's 306 ppi. If the GS IV indeed has a 441 ppi screen, then it's safe to say that it will probably feature a 5" display with 1080p resolution - same as the recently launched HTC DROID DNA for Verizon Wireless.

With such an amazing screen, if Samsung has really managed to make it unbreakable, we have no other option but to get super-excited about this eventual April release of the Galaxy S IV!

source: Reuters

Tuesday 4 December 2012

Samsung may deliver flexible displays as soon as next year


Samsung may deliver flexible displays as soon as next year


We've been hearing promises and seeing demos of flexible displays for a while now. So long that it seems as though the tech may never arrive, but a new report is saying that we could actually see flexible displays as soon as next year, and that Samsung could be leading the pack, at least that's what the BBC is saying. 

Samsung is obviously not the only company working on the technology. LG, Philips, Sharp, Sony and Nokia are all working on flexible displays, but the word is that Samsung will be the first to actually ship the displays in products, and it could happen next year. According to the report, LG has already begun mass producing flexible e-ink displays, but Samsung could be the first to make a flexible smartphone display, likely using Samsung's favorite OLED tech. 

Of course, we still don't have flexible motherboards, or flexible batteries, so don't expect fully flexible phones just yet. But, flexible displays would definitely end that whole problem that we saw with the iPhone 4/4S, and that the Nexus 4 is having with cracked glass. Flexible displays are said to be virtually unbreakable. 

source: BBC

Here's a tablet that will run Android and Linux for $120


Here's a tablet that will run Android and Linux for $120


Behold, the PengPod tablet! Now, now, before you all walk away with your interest meter going sharply down, please take a moment to acquaint yourselves with the geeky concept of this gadget.

So, the PengPod! This is a crowd-funded tablet that differentiates itself with the unique ability to dual-boot Android and Linux. That is full-blown Linux we're talking about, covered with the touch-oriented KDE Plasma Active UI. Although it seems like more of a geek product with all that Linux stuff, we guess it may still have some appeal for consumers, depending on the version of Android it comes with, as well as the internals.

Finally, this device certainly shouldn't be ruled out just yet, having in mind the alluring price tag that it's going to come with: $120 for the 7" version, and just $185 for the 10" one! Now that your interest meter is back up a bit, let us tell you that you'll have to wait until "early 2013" for this product to become available.

Would you get an unknown $120 tablet with Android and Linux instead of a proven $200 Android one like the Nexus 7?

Here's a tablet that will run Android and Linux for $120

via: BGR

Monday 12 November 2012

RIM confirms BlackBerry 10 will launch on January 30th, 2013


RIM confirms BlackBerry 10 will launch on January 30th, 2013


Research in Motion has finally announced the release date for its new BlackBerry operating system. BlackBerry 10 will launch on January 30th, 2013, and on the same date RIM will unveil the first two phones running on the platform. The announcement will happen in an event held simultaneously in multiple countries.

“This day will mark the official launch of its new platform – BlackBerry 10, as well as the unveiling of the first two BlackBerry 10 smartphones. Details on the smartphones and their availability will be announced at the event,” RIM said in an official press release.

The platform got the important FIPS 140-2 certification before launch which means that Government agencies, one of RIM’s biggest clients, will be able to use the new devices from day one.

BlackBerry 10 platform comes with BlackBerry Flow and BlackBerry Hub. Flow is the name of the new user interface, and the Hub is the notification aggregator picking up all your texts, emails, social messages, IMs, and so on.

BlackBerry 10 screenshots
BlackBerry 10 screenshots
RIM promised it will launch two BlackBerries intially, a modern all-touch device and a traditional keyboard-based 'Berry.

And lastly, we heard about a pretty exciting quad-core RIM A series device, the BlackBerry Aristo, coming with a 720p 4.65-inch display, four-band LTE, 2GB of RAM, an 8-megapixel camera and a whopping 2,800mAh battery.

What are your expectations about this upcoming BlackBerry 10 launch, are you excited?

source: MarketWire, BlackBerry

Monday 22 October 2012

Government consultancy of 25,000 workers leaves BlackBerry for iPhone and Android


Government consultancy of 25,000 workers leaves BlackBerry for iPhone and Android


Research in Motion has been in free fall in the last couple of months, and that slump is simply not slowing down. Now, Government consultancy Booz Allen Hamilton, with staff of around 25,000 employees is ditching BlackBerry for Android and iPhone in what is another huge blow to RIM.

Booz Allen has already started giving out new Android devices and iPhones to its staff, and those who still own BlackBerries soon won’t be able to access their corporate mailbox.

A RIM spokesperson however stressed that the company still has over 1 million customers in the US Government, one of its last strongholds. That is swiftly changing, though, and if BlackBerry 10 disappoints or doesn’t come soon enough, the Canadians might well losing customers even more rapidly.

source: Bloomberg via BGR

Samsung Nexus tablet slated for introduction on October 29th along with other surprises


Samsung Nexus tablet slated for introduction on October 29th along with other surprises

It looks like Google has another product announcement that it will make at its October 29th media event. Besides the LG Nexus 4 smartphone, there is now speculation that the rumored 10 inch Samsung Nexus tablet will also be announced during the event. Earlier this month, it appeared as though we wouldn't be seeing this device until the first half of 2013, but that now seems like misinformation designed to throw us off the trail.

The four faces of the LG Nexus 4
The four faces of the LG Nexus 4
The Samsung Nexus tablet is expected to have a 10 inch screen with resolution of 2560 x 1600 which leaves it with a higher pixel density at 300ppi than the 264ppi belonging to the third-generation iPad. It will be powered by the Android 4.2 OS that is also expected to be part of the event. As far as a name is concerned, the source for The Next Web could not confirm if the tablet will be called the Nexus 10. Inside the Korean manufacturer, the tablet is known as "Manta".

What other surprises does Google have for us on October 29th? We do expect to see the 32GB Google Nexus 7 tablet that already has been sold at one Staples store, although there is talk that a version of the 32GB model will be made available with HSPA+ connectivity, which is something that fans of the tablet have wanted to see. After all, you can't rely on Wi-Fi everywhere you go.

Invitation to the October 29th Google event
Invitation to the October 29th Google event
The source also has the final specs for the LG Nexus 4, which includes the 4.7 inch 768 x 1280 display, the quad-core 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro APQ8064 processor, 2GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, 8MP rear facing camera and a 1.3MP front facing camera. A 2100mAh battery is keeping the lights on and Android 4.2 will be installed.

Android 4.2 will introduce ‘Content in the center,’ which is a way for users to access Google Play Store via a widget. Tablet Sharing’ will let multiple users access a tablet each with their own email and app settings. Competing with iOS 6, the new OS build will include an update to the panoramic camera settings which will now support both horizontal and vertical movement as the default setting.

source: TheNextWeb via SammyHub

Thursday 18 October 2012

Is your Verizon iPhone 5 displaying time and date incorrectly?


Is your Verizon iPhone 5 displaying time and date incorrectly?


Oh boy, here we go again! Apparently, the iPhone 5 has troubles telling what time and date it is, and those who suffered from the infamous alarm clock bug in iOS might be getting a feeling of déjà vu right now. There is a 21 page long thread on Apple Discussions about a glitch affecting some iPhone 5 owners, predominantly Verizon users. And according to those users, the date and time in iOS are being displayed incorrectly – off by days behind or ahead in some cases, when the smartphone is set to adjust those settings automatically.

The first report of the problem was posted on September 24, which is actually the day Apple released the iPhone 5. Since then, the list of people who have noticed the glitch has been growing steadily. Surprisingly, only the iPhone 5 seems to be affected, judging by what people have been sharing on the forum thread. Users of older iPhone models, including those who have upgraded to iOS 6, have not reported any time or date issues yet.

What has been causing the iPhone 5 to report date and time incorrectly is not yet clear, although some speculate it might have something to do with Verizon's network. In particular, the CDMA towers receive the current time and date data via GPS so that the network can stay in sync. That data is than sent to the devices connected to the network. However, something might be causing the iPhone 5 to misinterpret the data being sent, or the towers themselves are somehow sending incorrect data. But that's just a theory.

Whatever the case may be, we'll be keeping an eye on the situation. In the mean time, if you own an iPhone 5, let us know whether it has been reporting the date and time correctly.

source: Apple Discussions via Apple Insider

Tuesday 9 October 2012

Facebook has 1 billion active users, 60% used mobile



Facebook has 1 billion active users, 60% used mobile
Facebook is a beast of a site, and we all knew this moment was coming. Facebook has finally hit 1 billion "active users" on the site. That means that according to Facebook statistics, that means that 1 out of every 7 people on the planet use the site each month. Even more impressive is that over half of those users are on mobile.

According to the new stats released by Facebook, the breakdown of users hasn't changed too much recently, despite breaking the 1 billion active monthly user mark. 81% of active users are still located outside of the U.S. & Canada, and the site still sees the same number of active daily users at 552 million. 

The big news from our perspective wasn't the 1 billion mark, but that 60% of those users accessed Facebook through a mobile product. That's 600 million active monthly users on mobile. Given a number like that, it makes plenty of sense that Zuck had said a couple days ago that Facebook sees more users accessing the mobile website than through the iOS and Android apps combined. 

Sure, we don't exactly know how many of the 1 billion active monthly users are spam accounts, some estimates put the number at around 40%, but it's still an impressive feat for the social network. 

iPad Mini's design to outshine the new iPad, claims analyst



iPad Mini's design to outshine the new iPad, claims analyst
We've already reported tens, if not hundreds of rumors about the iPad mini, and we can safely say that we'll be continuing to do so until Apple finally makes the thing official. Until then, here's a new one!

According to Tokepa analyst Brian White, Apple is putting quite a lot of effort into the design of the iPad Mini, potentially outdoing its achievements in the new iPad. Now, there's a reason to believe White, as he's been traveling around Taipei, talking to various component makers, trying to squeeze every single bit of information possible. Well, he hasn't been able to collect much info, but there are still some interesting details that make the iPad Mini sound like a very promising device:

Apple did not skimp on the aesthetics of the much anticipated iPad Mini. In fact, we believe the ‘iPad Mini’ could outshine the new iPad in terms of how the device feels in a consumer’s hands. - Tokepa analyst Brian White

According to AllThingsD, White's sources have a decent track record, so this might as well turn out true. There's one other bit, though - it seems like the new, probably even more "magical" iPad will be quite difficult to produce, which may translate into some very limited stock during the first weeks, maybe even months of the device.

source: AllThingsD

Friday 5 October 2012

Apple iPhone 5 Review REVIEW INDEX Posted: 22 Sep 2012, 17:25 , by John V.

Introduction:

They come hard, they come strong! That’s simply the reality of things nowadays for Apple, as competition from all corners has seemingly caught up with the iPhone 4S, and in some cases, surpassed it even. Not only are these competing devices boasting larger displays, faster processors, and higher capacity storage on paper than what the iPhone 4S had to provide, Apple’s pride and joy still somehow managed to stiffen the competition with its imposing mindshare. Last year, when Apple unveiled the iPhone 4S, many were wondering if the renowned company has lost its magical touch – maybe from all the years of being complacent with its past laurels and successes.

Perhaps, that kind of attitude was the requisite inspiration that spurred its rivals to fight back with a vengeance. And boy did they come with arms up and fists slamming, since for the very first time ever, the iPhone’s impenetrable façade exhibited subtle signs of fragility – a miniscule crack that blossomed into a gash, which shook its foundations tremendously. Whatever it was, there was no denying that innovation was now being seen by competitive devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S III, HTC One X, and Nokia Lumia 900 to name a few, which rose to prominence and established their presence in the landscape.

Despite the underwhelming response by critics alike, the iPhone 4S still managed to sell healthily, but under the surface, it still didn’t have enough substance to satiate the demands of hungry consumers looking for the most cutting-edge thing. Regardless of that, Apple managed to address some of the previous concerns, as the iPhone 5 is positioned to be the best iPhone since, well, the iPhone itself.

Interestingly enough this time around, it seems as though Apple is the one that’s actually catching up to the competition, since they’ve finally brought a bigger screen and speedy 4G LTE connectivity to the iPhone 5 – while continuing to improve with a retooled camera lens and new chipset. Add in that it’s flaunting a new design, though still iconic at heart, it would seem that the highly anticipated iPhone 5 is finally that cutting-edge device we drool over in our dreams. Of course, there’s the matter regarding its performance and software experience, which sees the normal tweaks here and there. Surely though, there’s no denying the anticipation riding on the back of this one – so with that, let’s dive in and see if it can continue the legacy.

Apple iPhone 5 Review
Apple iPhone 5 Review
The package contains:

  • Lightning USB cable
  • Wall Charger
  • Earpods with Remote and Mic
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Apple Decals


Design:

After seeing a stream of leaks showing off the design of the iPhone 5 from the front, we have to admit that we were somewhat initially disappointed, mainly because they showed that the iPhone 5 would merely look like a stretched out iPhone 4/4S. To our shock, that’s exactly how it turned out! But as we now reflect and gaze over its intricate design and attention to detail, we’re actually quite fond of it – as in thoroughly impressed! For the most part, the iPhone 5 maintains the familiar styling of previous iPhones, which in turn, gives it that distinguishable iconic look. Simply, it oozes in every aspect with a genuine love for design that’s unmatched by any other smartphone maker.

Indeed, the handset’s length has been extended to 4.87-inches in contrast to the 4.54-inch length of its predecessor, but we’re comforted to find that its width has been maintained at 2.31-inches. Essentially, the added space enables the device to accommodate a larger 4-inch screen, without compromising on its comfortable grip in the hand. Furthermore, it’s both skinnier (0.3” thin) and lighter (3.95 oz) than its predecessor, which is a welcomed sight for the natural design progression of today’s smartphones.

The Apple iPhone 5’s length has been extended to 4.87-inches in contrast to the 4.54-inch length of its predecessor - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The Apple iPhone 5’s length has been extended to 4.87-inches in contrast to the 4.54-inch length of its predecessor - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The Apple iPhone 5’s length has been extended to 4.87-inches in contrast to the 4.54-inch length of its predecessor - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The Apple iPhone 5’s length has been extended to 4.87-inches in contrast to the 4.54-inch length of its predecessor

Cementing its status as being regarded as one of the most elegant devices on the market, the iPhone 5 looks and feels like a high luxury item that’s instantly recognizable anywhere you take it. Gone is the glass surface in the rear used by the last two iPhones, and instead, it’s been replaced by a brushed aluminum casing that further ensures its rock solid construction – while the same metallic bezel wraps around the entire thing to keep it soundly intact. However, if there’s one qualm we have with the design of the iPhone 5, it has to be the sharp feel of the metallic bezel’s diamond cut chamfered edge. Overall, it’s still an instantly recognizable iPhone at heart, but the new backing combined with its more streamlined figure makes the redesign endearing enough for us to fall in love all over again.

Apple iPhone 5 Review

You can compare the Apple iPhone 5 with many other phones using our Size Visualization Tool.

Being a staple with the iPhone’s design throughout the years, the slightly recessed, yet springy home button is once again positioned in its familiar slot right below the display. Needless to say, we can’t complain about it, since it’s easily pressed and all. On the opposite edge, we’re greeted to its narrow looking earpiece, light sensor, proximity sensor, and front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera, which so happens to now capture video in 720p.

Apple iPhone 5 Review
The home button - Apple iPhone 5 Review
1.3MP camera - Apple iPhone 5 Review
 
The home button
1.3MP camera
Just like its predecessor, both its separated volume controls and mute switch are placed on the left side of the handset’s bezel. Thankfully, the rounded volume buttons are distinctive enough to feel out – while still exhibiting a comforting clicky response when pressed. Although the right edge of the handset appears to be clean, it’s where we find the discrete nano-SIM slot, which is again accessed by inserting the SIM removal tool or a clip into the pinhole.

The left side - Apple iPhone 5 Review
Volume controls one the left - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The right edge - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The left side
Volume controls one the left
The right edge
Interestingly enough, the top edge is home to only the raised and sufficiently sized power button, while the3.5mm headset jack has been moved towards the bottom where it’s nearby the speaker, microphone, and Apple’s new proprietary Lightning dock port. With the latter, it’s one of the biggest changes seen on the iPhone 5, since for many years now, Apple’s 30-pin port has been a familiar figure. No doubt, there are going to be some inconvenienced by this, especially when many accessories have been fitted to use the 30-pin port, but nevertheless, an optional adapter can be purchased to make them compatible with Apple’s newest toy. In the end, the Lightning jack merely enables Apple to reduce the iPhone 5’s overall size, since you know, it’s now occupying a small amount of real estate.

Top side - Apple iPhone 5 Review
Bottom - Apple iPhone 5 Review
Top side
Bottom

And finally, the rear of the iPhone 5 is home to the updated 8-megapixel iSight camera with LED flash and noise-cancellation microphone. Even though the megapixel count is the same as its predecessor, it’s been blessed with an improved backside-illuminated sensor and retooled lens, which are safely guarded by a durable sapphire crystal glass. We know you’re dying to know how it fares, but we’ll get into those details a bit later on.

The rear of the iPhone 5 is home to the updated 8-megapixel iSight camera with LED flash - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The rear of the iPhone 5 is home to the updated 8-megapixel iSight camera with LED flash - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The rear of the iPhone 5 is home to the updated 8-megapixel iSight camera with LED flash - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The rear of the iPhone 5 is home to the updated 8-megapixel iSight camera with LED flash


Display:

Finally! Some will applaud, some will cry, but whatever you feel, the iPhone is now on the bandwagon of believing that bigger is better. Simply without saying, the iPhone 5 sheds the consistent 3.5-inch display of yesterday’s iPhones, and instead, and replaces it with a more modestly sized 4-inch Retina Display. Indeed, it’s now better equipped to tangle with some of the smartphones out there with ginormous displays on them, but one thing’s absolute – it’s nice that only the length of the handset has been extended. The 640 x 1136 resolution of the iPhone 5’s Retina Display results in a 326 ppi pixel density, same as the previous iPhone – it is detailed enough for our aging eyes to visibly make out fine details in the web browser and everywhere else with little issue.

Viewing the iPhone 5's display from different angles - Apple iPhone 5 Review
Viewing the iPhone 5's display from different angles - Apple iPhone 5 Review
Viewing the iPhone 5's display from different angles - Apple iPhone 5 Review
Viewing the iPhone 5's display from different angles

Being a noteworthy thing to mention as well, the iPhone 5 employs an in-cell touchscreen that merely shaves off a layer, thus, bringing the display closer to the surface. However, it’s almost negligible to the eye because we didn’t notice much of a difference compared to the iPhone 4S Retina Display. Another thing about the display, its color production is noticeably warmer looking than previous efforts – giving it a more vibrant output than before. The colors are now more saturated, but still not too oversaturated as those of most AMOLED displays, which may seem more attractive, but aren't as accurate. Rounding things out, its strong brightness output combined with its superb viewing angles make it relatively easy for outdoor usage with the sun present. Frankly, we appreciate the change in scenery with the larger Retina Display on the iPhone 5, as it’s complemented by an arsenal of great qualities about it, like its detail and superior clarity.

The display's color production is noticeably warmer looking than previous efforts – giving it a more vibrant output than before - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The display's color production is noticeably warmer looking than previous efforts – giving it a more vibrant output than before - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The display's color production is noticeably warmer looking than previous efforts – giving it a more vibrant output than before - Apple iPhone 5 Review
The display's color production is noticeably warmer looking than previous efforts – giving it a more vibrant output than before