Samsung GALAXY S III hits the shelf in Singapore

May 30th, 2012

The Marble White version of the Samsung GALAXY S III (S$998 incl GST, no line) goes on sale in Singapore today. Queues were already forming at the respective launch locations of the three mobile operators last night.

Crowd forming up at the M1 launch event at Paragon last night.

Crowd forming up at the M1 launch event at Paragon last night.

The Pebble Blue version of the 4.8-inch, Android 4.0 smartphone will be available at a later date.

The first customer in the queue at Paragon making purchase.

The first customer in the queue at Paragon making purchase.

The third generation GALAXY S smartphone features an 8-megapixel main camera and 1.9-megapixel front camera that shoots HD video, and is powered by Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich.

New Android smartphones: Sony Xperia go and acro S

May 30th, 2012

Sony Mobile has unveiled two new stylish, durable and water resistant Android smartphones. Both smartphones will be available globally in Q3 2012.

Dust & Water-resistant Xperia go and Xperia acro S from Sony Mobile

Dust & Water-resistant Xperia go and Xperia acro S from Sony Mobile

The Xperia go and Xperia acro S are built with extra durability and water resistance.

Xperia go & acro S

Xperia go & acro S

This is consistent with the trend of making electronic gadgets waterproof to enable an adventurous lifestyle.

Both smartphones have scratch resistant mineral glass displays for protection against dust and water immersion.

The Xperia go has a 3.5-inch display, 5-megapixel camera and 1,265mAH battery.

It will be launched on Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) but upgradeable to Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

The Xperia acro S has a large 4.3-inch display, huge 12.1-megapixel camera and 1,840mAH battery.

It will be launched directly on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

The press release and specs for both smartphones can be viewed/downloaded below.

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Fuji Xerox DocuCentre S2010 & S1810

May 29th, 2012

Fuji Xerox has introduced two new digital  monochrome multifunction devices (MFDs). The DocuCentre S2010 and S1810 offers small and home offices (SOHOs) with cost effective and high-performance copy, print and scan jobs of up to A3 size.

Available now. Enquire at Fuji Xerox on price which varies with configuration.

Fuji Xerox DocuCentre S2010 & S1810

Fuji Xerox DocuCentre S2010 & S1810

The DocuCentre S2010 and S1810 print and copy at 20 pages per minute (ppm) and 18 ppm respectively. Both print images at up to 600 dpi resolution.

Fuji Xerox DocuCentre S2010 & S1810The Duplex Automatic Document Feeder loads up to 110 sheets and scans multi-page documents at 18 sheets per minute while the durable platen glass handles small or varied-sized documents and books for printouts.

Users can also electronically set and sort desired page order for fuss-free print collection, minimizing the need to manually collate high-volume printouts for faster turnaround time.

Multiple-Up function prints up to two pages on one sheet, and when in duplex mode – fits up to four pages on one piece of paper.

Fuji Xerox DocuCentre S2010 & S1810Further paper-saving can be achieved by digitizing documents up to a maximum of A3 size and storing scanned data to a personal computer (PC).

Connect a single user directly through USB or configure a network of multiple users through Ethernet support to facilitate document sharing.

The Toner Saver Mode calibrates toner density according to print or copy requirements, which controls ink usage and maximizes replacement schedules.

Equipped with built-in energy-saving Sleep Mode and Low Power Mode, DocuCentre S2010 and S1810 operate on low energy Typical Electricity Consumption (TEC) and follow stringent International Energy Star Program standards.

The MFDs can be configured to fit workflow requirements – a desktop set-up for individuals or small groups, or a stand-alone device for multiple users, with maximum paper tray capacity of up to 850 sheets.

New Android smartphone: LG Optimus Max

May 29th, 2012

LG’s new Optimus Max boasts both glasses-free 3D features and smartphone performance. The smartphone is available at all StarHub and M1 stores at S$698.

LG Optimus Max, available from M1 and StarHub (S$698)

LG Optimus Max, available from M1 and StarHub (S$698)

Zoom in to examine the texture.

Following last year’s 3D smartphone, LG Electronics Singapore has introduced the Optimus Max, which is only 9.6 mm thin and weighs 148 grams.

The smartphone ships with Android 2.3 Gingerbread but will be upgraded to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

Its 3G network speed has been improved to HSPA+ 21Mbps.

Automatic setting changes create predefined tags that are customized to certain modes such as car-mode, office-mode or sleep-mode.

Depending on location, the predefined tags will automatically adjust various phone settings including Wi-Fi, bluetooth, GPS and sound volume.

Other features include:

  • HD Converter to offer HD quality on a TV connected through MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), when transforming Open GL-based 2D games and applications to 3D and viewing Google Earth.
  • Range Finder which calculates the distance between the camera and the subject as well as the dimensions of an object through triangulation.
  • Out-focusing Shot which enhances camera quality beyond that of other smartphones through image processing using depth information.
  • Icon Customizer which allows the creation of personalized icons. Images can be selected from the gallery and can be used as icons or shortcuts for a personalized look.
  • Users can convert Google Earth, Google Maps and other road views into 3D using the enhanced 3D Converter.
  • 3D photos and videos captured by the Optimus Max can also be viewed in a single-screen mode in 2D, using the 3D Hot Key mounted on the side of the phone to easily toggle between 2D and 3D.

The main specifications are listed below.

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New Android smartphone: HTC One XL

May 25th, 2012

HTC is the first handset maker to unveil a 4G LTE smartphone for the impending launch of the 4G LTE network in Singapore. The HTC One XL will be available in early June 2012 at an RRP of S$998 (without line).

Update (4 June 2012):

The HTC One XL (S$318) is one of three handsets available at the launch of SingTel’s 4G service on 4 June. The other two 4G smartphones are the LG Optimus True HD LTE (S$198) and the Samsung GALAXY S II LTE (S$298).

The original HTC One X was first launched on 30 March this year and hit the shelves in Singapore on 2 April.

The original HTC One X was first launched on 30 March this year and hit the shelves in Singapore on 2 April.

SingTel is expected to officially launch its 4G LTE service in Singapore in June 2012. The HTC One XL offers to combine the superb camera and audio qualities of HTC’s premium One series with the blazing speeds of next generation 4G LTE networks.

The HTC One XL is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor with up to 1.5GHz dual-core CPU and a 1,800 mAh embedded battery, alongside software enhancements that promises improved battery performance by 50 percent.

The HTC One XL comes with Android 4.0 (ICS) and HTC Sense 4, the maker’s user interface.

The HTC One XL will be available in Polar White and Glamour Grey.

The main technical specs for the HTC One XL is listed below.

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Arruda suggests 9 activities to advance your career

May 23rd, 2012

Personal branding expert William Arruda advocates that by spending just 9 minutes a day, you’ll be able to maintain a healthy and successful career. Here are 9 activities you can do during those 9 minutes.

William Arruda, personal branding expert

William Arruda, personal branding expert

Arruda suggests the following activities that professionals can do 9 minutes a day in order to maintain a healthy and successful career.

  1. Build your network – building and maintaining relationships are a major component of a successful career.
  2. Maintain relationships by recommending and congratulating others in their careers – everyone enjoys being recognised and LinkedIn provides an easy way to do this.
  3. Request recommendations from your network as credibility is critical.
  4. Document achievements and wins on your LinkedIn profile to stay current and relevant.
  5. Update your status every day and make sure your profile and photo is current.
  6. Expand on your thought leadership – lead a forum or LinkedIn group; publish an article; start a blog; speak publicly or recommend books on the Amazon LinkedIn app.
  7. Use the power of video and create a video bio of yourself for your LinkedIn profile.
  8. Source staff – one of a manager’s hardest jobs. If you build your brand community, you’ll create fans who want to work for you.
  9. Research – Make an effort to get to know more about your clients or partners and competitors. LinkedIn is a great place to start.

LinkedIn Research: 9 minutes a day for a healthy, successful career

May 22nd, 2012

LinkedIn research reveals the majority of the Singaporean workforce over-estimate the time required per day to further their career.

Expert reveals that 9 minutes a day is all it takes to maintain a healthy, successful career.

Infographic of LinkedIn research conducted by IPSOS Mori and Catalyst

Infographic of LinkedIn research conducted by IPSOS Mori and Catalyst

Over 81% of Singaporean professionals believe that the ideal amount of time spent daily on progressing your career should be in excess of 30 minutes, according to the research.

“Fitting 9 minutes of career management into your daily schedule is all it takes without adding stress or pressure,” says Arruda, who partnered with LinkedIn to identify the optimum amount of time to spend daily on what he has termed ‘continuous career management’.The research was undertaken by IPSOS Mori and Catalyst and involved 3,200 working professionals worldwide, including 400 in Singapore.

World leading personal branding expert William Arruda instead presents a far more appealing and realistic time commitment.

He advocates that by spending just 9 minutes a day you’ll be able to maintain a healthy and successful career. Here are 9 activities that he suggests you can do during those 9 minutes.

“9 minutes is the optimum amount of time recommended, because it also gives you complete focus, and educators to psychologists agree that the ability to focus one’s attention on a task is crucial for the achievement of one’s goals,” Arruda elaborated.The public perception of 3.5+hrs per week is a stark contrast to Arruda’s recommendation of 45 minutes per week.

Other results reveal that – given an hour – 95% believe it’s more useful to spend time keeping in with the boss (making them tea) than spending time building their network or finessing their CV.

Here are some other results from the research:

  • Given an hour – 95% believe it’s more useful to spend time keeping in with the boss (making them tea) than spending time building their network or finessing their CV.
  • Men perceived as better networkers than women. 42% of the population think that men are better than women at networking, versus only 9% believing women were better.
  • Nine in 10 professionals agree that having a professional network of connections is crucial during economic uncertainty.

IPSOS MORI is part of the IPSOS Group, a leading market research company in the UK and Ireland.

Professionals deemed to be the most effective networkers:

46% Marketing
17% Sales
15% Bankers & Stockbrokers
1-2% Nurse, Teachers, Legal and Retail

In Singapore and Australia, the research was conducted by Australian research firm Catalyst Consultancy & Research.

The research asked 3,200 working professionals globally about their daily work habits, with markets being the UK, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Singapore and Australia.

Infographic: Tata Communications global network

May 21st, 2012

In March, Tata Communications announced that it had completed the world’s first wholly owned cable network ring around the world. Here’s a sundial schematic that charts the global network of Tata Communications circumnavigating the globe.

The infographic shows the locations of earth stations, cable landing stations, points of presence and Global Meeting Exchange hubs. (click to view/download enlarged chart)

This infographic shows the locations of earth stations, cable landing stations, points of presence and Global Meeting Exchange hubs. (click to view/download enlarged chart)

The global fibre optic network seamlessly links markets across Asia, Middle East, the U.S. and Europe to meet the rising demand for 24/7 commerce.

It is part of the Tata Global Network (TGN), which comprises one of the most advanced and largest submarine cable networks, a Tier-1 IP network, with connectivity to more than 200 countries across 400 PoPs, and nearly 1 million square feet of data centre and collocation space worldwide.

Price & Availability: Sony Xperia P, U, and sola

May 18th, 2012

The Sony Xperia P (S$688), Xperia U (S$488), and the Xperia sola(S$588) are now available in Singapore. All prices do not include contract.

From left: Sony Xperia P, Xperia U, and the Xperia sola.

From left: Sony Xperia P, Xperia U, and the Xperia sola.

First showcased in Singapore in back in March, these three Xperia smartphones from the NXT series come with Google Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) but is upgradeable to Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

Xperia users get free 50GB storage for life before the end of December 2012. Simply download the Box app from the Google Play store on the Xperia smartphone to enjoy the free 50GB storage.

  • Xperia P delivers outstanding screen brightness with Sony’s “WhiteMagic” display technology.
  • Xperia U packs powerful Sony entertainment in a stylish and compact design that is easily personalisable.
  • Xperia sola allows easy access to apps and quick launch of actions with NFC and Xperia SmartTags.

The Xperia P is available in silver or black, while the Xperia U and Xperia sola are available in black or white.

Click here for the key features of each model.

Leica Das Wesentliche in Singapore

May 18th, 2012

Leica showcased its slew of new products in an intimate session on the 32nd storey of Orchard Mandarin Hotel in Singapore.

This is part of Leica’s series of Das Wesentliche events in its main markets, after the inaugural event in Berlin last week. Prices in SGD below includes 7% GST.

Leica M Monochrom with the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH lens, Leica M9-P »Edition Hermès«, and the Leica X2.

Leica M Monochrom with the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH lens, Leica M9-P »Edition Hermès«, and the Leica X2.

“Das Wesentliche” means “The Essentials” in German.

It reflects Leica’s intent to focus on just the essentials in the design of their slew new products – to the point of being minimalistic.

The first Das Wesentliche event debuted in Berlin on 10 May.

The new products that were launched in Berlin are now being brought around the world to Leica’s main markets, including Tokyo and Singapore.

The Leica M Monochrom is an 18-megapixel full-frame digital rangefinder camera that shoots only in black-and-white.

It will be available in Singapore (S$12,260) in black chrome from August onwards.

Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH

Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH

The Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH lens has also been launched.

Leica describes it as its most outstanding lens. It will be available in Singapore (S$10,900) from the end of July 2012, in black finish.

Two limited editions of the Leica M9-P have been introduced to commemorate the close relationship between Leica and renowned Parisian house Hermès.

The limited edition Leica M9-P »Edition Hermès« is already available now (US$25,000) although only 300 will be available worldwide.

It comes in either single-lens or triple-lens kits. Both the camera body, lenses, camera bags and accessories have been specially designed by automotive designer Walter de’Silva.

Leica S-Adapter H for the S2

Leica S-Adapter H for the S2

An even more exclusive Leica M9-P »Edition Hermès« – Série Limitée Jean-Louis Dumas will be available (US$50,000) in June 2012. Only 100 sets will be available worldwide. Each set will come with three lenses.

The 16.2-megapixel (effective pixels) Leica X2 is a compact camera with a huge sensor. The APS-C format CMOS image sensor is as big, if not bigger than many DSLRs.

It is targeted towards semi-professional photographers and photography enthusiasts. It will be available in Singapore (S$2,980) from June 2012.

Leica V-Lux 40 with 20x optical zoom

Leica V-Lux 40 with 20x optical zoom

Another new compact camera is the 14.1-megapixel (effective pixels) Leica V-Lux 40, with a 20x optical zoom from 24 to 480 mm (35mm equivalent).

It will be available in Singapore (S$990)  from June 2012 onwards.

Finally, the new Leica S-Adapter H enables the use of Hasselblad H lenses on the Leica S2.

It is now available (S$2,725) in Singapore.