Tired of playing with dummy phones when shopping for a new mobile unit? Want a unique skin for your laptop or a hip casing for your cellphone? Or do you need someone to consult with on the best telecom solutions for your lifestyle or business? The new Globe flagship store in Greenbelt 4, Makati is revolutionizing the telecom store experience in the Philippines by bringing digital lifestyle closer to the people.
Instead of the usual non-functioning cellular phone prototypes being used as demo units at telecom shops, the Globe flagship store boasts of a wide array of working cell phones that the customers can feel, touch, and test to give them an idea of what product suits them best. There are also laptops with Wi-Fi and broadband connections, and for those who have yet to see the iPad, one is on display for everyone to try.
The store also carries top-of-the-line and stylish accessories for cellphones and laptops such as skins, headsets, and cases made by popular international manufacturers XtremeMac, Gelaskins, iFrogz, Ed Hardy, Skullcandy, Simplism, and Golla.
Besides providing the latest gadgets and accessories, the store likewise has a self-help area with interactive touch screens. There are also similar touch screens which allow customers to find out more about a product or service by simply choosing from the menu. The store also has the Great Deals catalog to guide the customers on the best buys, the hottest deals, and what is new in the market.
"The concept [of the new store] is embracing the digital lifestyle, whether you are at home, on the go, or at work. It is a complete change and not just in the aesthetics or the looks of it. We want our customers to feel a sense of playfulness and discovery when they come to our store. Our environment has been designed in ways that are easy and relevant for our customers. What we desire is for our customers to find the products and services they need all within the convenience of a one-stop shop," said Maridol Ylanan, Globe head of stores.
Being the country's first full-service telecom shop, the Globe Store veers away from the traditional utilitarian concept towards a digital lifestyle that places the needs of customers above everything else. It not only provides gadgets and accessories but also superior services and after-sales support.
"We encourage our customers to speak to our store specialists. They know our various products and services very well so they can give recommendations as to the gadget or solution that would fit one's lifestyle," Ylanan said.
The exciting new store design features a seamless, semicircular, 2-section layout which allows anyone to easily browse around the product display as well as request for after-sales support.
The inner core is called the Shop Zone and highlights the digital lifestyle, be it Home Life, Mobile Life, or Business Life. All accessories are also properly organized on shelves beneath each category to make it convenient for the customers to dress up their gadgets.
Besides providing an enhanced shopping experience, the store continues to deliver superior customer and after-sales support.
The outer core or the Service Zone of the store houses the Self-help area for customers who want immediate answers or who need to print a copy of their bill; Express Service for fast transactions such as modification of account information and subscription plans; Customer Service for more complex transactions and opening of new accounts; and Cashier for bills payments. The service area resembles a lounge with long, comfortable couches in muted tones where the clients can relax while waiting to be assisted. It also has a small private room exclusively for Platinum members.
"We're proud to say that no Philippine telecom company has done this. It was painstaking. We had to hire consultants, not only for the design but also for the backroom infrastructure, which, to a large part, is the soul of the store. The customers must be able to do a transaction within a reasonable period and still have time to browse around the store," Ylanan said.
The cutting-edge design was created by award-winning Australian architectural firm Public Design Group which also handled the stores of Globe's affiliates – SingTel of Singapore and Optus of Australia.
"We have taken what we know and learned about our customers through engaging them, observing them, and anticipating their needs, and allowed these valuable insights to ripple across every nook and cranny of our store, in every dimension across our critical product, system, and human touch points. From the design of the physical structure to the design of the customer experience; the look, feel, and the soul of our store, these resonate with an understanding of our customer in mind and an eagerness to delight them in every encounter even after they have stepped out of our store," Ylanan said.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Google Docs makes sharing easier
When using applications to collaborate with others, it's important to have control over your data and how it's shared. Google Docs added a new simplified interface that make it even easier to share and see who has access to your files.
Documents, spreadsheets and presentations can now be identified as “Private,†“Anyone with a link†or “Public on the web.†As before, all docs start out as private by default.
These new visibility options appear as a link next to the title of every doc. Clicking this link or the “Share†button takes you straight to the new interface where you can see who has access, manage sharing access and invite others to share the doc.
These improvements have started to roll out and should be available to everyone next week.
Documents, spreadsheets and presentations can now be identified as “Private,†“Anyone with a link†or “Public on the web.†As before, all docs start out as private by default.
These new visibility options appear as a link next to the title of every doc. Clicking this link or the “Share†button takes you straight to the new interface where you can see who has access, manage sharing access and invite others to share the doc.
These improvements have started to roll out and should be available to everyone next week.
Online Messaging Service: Smart brings Internet to mobile phones
Tech-savvy youth can look forward to a new school year with a handy educational tool, mobile Internet.
Smart Communications Inc. has bundled its suite of Internet-based applications accessible via mobile phone under the category Online Messaging Services (OMS).
Danilo Mojica, head of Smart’s Wireless Consumer Division, notes that with four in every five Filipinos carrying a cellphone, the Internet is now more accessible to more people through OMS.
Students on a fixed allowance can take advantage of a variety of “all-you-can-use,†flat-fee data packages that offer unlimited e-mail, chat, social networking and surfing via their mobile phones.
Go Mail is under Smart OMS, so students don’t need high-end devices like smartphones or netbooks to access their e-mail and communicate with friends and family.
“Smart intends to make e-mail as ubiquitous as SMS or text messaging,†Mojica says. “Advancing mobile e-mail will help Smart turn e-mail into another universally available service, regardless of handset used.â€
E-mail like texting
Subscribers like high-school student Nino Marc Casinday, 13, is now able to e-mail his widower father, who works as a nurse in Ontario, Canada, as often as he wants. “I keep my father updated on my activities and progress in school,†he says.
With Go Mail, Casinday takes advantage of affordable access to unlimited e-mail through his cellphone. For the flat rate of P20 a day, or only P199 a month, subscribers can read and reply to their MSN, Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo! e-mails, which are “pushed†to their cellphone. No need to pull and no need to download. E-mail is received as easily as text messages on the e-mail inbox, and sending one is as easy as composing an SMS.
Smart Go Mail is especially accessible to students since it works on all handset models. To avail oneself of Smart Go Mail, text MAIL send to 7077 to trigger set-up instructions. Upon registration, text BUY send to 7077 (e.g. BUY MONTHLY to 7077)
For quick, “bite-size†messaging, Smart OMS also features Uzzap, which offers unlimited instant messaging - or “chatting†- from mobile phones, for the flat rate of only P10 a day.
With Uzzap, students can also join common-interest chat rooms, or set up “private chat rooms,†say, with project group mates, or connect with other popular instant messaging services, all via their handset.
To download and install the Uzzap application for free, text UZZAP to 7272.
Staying connected
For John Mitch Consul, a high school junior whose family has just transferred residence, keeping in touch with friends means regular visits to the 500-million-strong social network Facebook.
“See you in FB,†he posted as his “status†to assure his old friends and former classmates he would stay in touch. This “status update†is just one of about 25 billion unique pieces of information that Facebook members like Consul reportedly share on the site, along with photos, notes and links, among others.
Under Smart OMS, Consul and his peers can share hundreds more photos and keep updating their status by taking advantage of the Web Unli service. For the fixed price of only P20 a day per site, Web Unli offers 24 hours of unlimited access via mobile phone to some of the most popular social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Plurk, Multiply, Friendster, Photobucket and Flickr.
For the same affordable rate, they can also access news and current affairs sites such as BBC, TMZ, ESPN, and even NBA. Other sites such as Cosmopolitan, eBay, Amazon, Wikipedia and online directory EYP are also accessible via Web Unli at only P20 a day per site.
Unlimited browsing
Students can access Google, Yahoo! News, Wikipedia, and other reference materials for research using UnliSurf 50, which offers 24 hours of unlimited mobile browsing for only P50.
UnliSurf 300 is good for seven days for only P300, while UnliSurf 1200 offers 30 days or a whole month of unlimited mobile browsing for only P1,200. With the unlimited browsing package, the student can also do unlimited chat and e-mail via the available providers on the Web.
To take advantage of these plans that fit students’ preference and budget, simply visit http://ping.fm/pFkNJ using a Smart cellphone and select the package from the list, or text SURF to 211 to get information about the service.
“We’re making it much easier for students to access the Internet while on the go, with the device that they have in their pockets all day,†says Mojica.
“Smart’s network has the reach and capacity to support the growing needs and more defined preferences of our subscribers,†he adds.
To access any of the Smart OMS services, visit http://ping.fm/ytA50 or using a mobile phone, http://ping.fm/q7Mq2
Smart Communications Inc. has bundled its suite of Internet-based applications accessible via mobile phone under the category Online Messaging Services (OMS).
Danilo Mojica, head of Smart’s Wireless Consumer Division, notes that with four in every five Filipinos carrying a cellphone, the Internet is now more accessible to more people through OMS.
Students on a fixed allowance can take advantage of a variety of “all-you-can-use,†flat-fee data packages that offer unlimited e-mail, chat, social networking and surfing via their mobile phones.
Go Mail is under Smart OMS, so students don’t need high-end devices like smartphones or netbooks to access their e-mail and communicate with friends and family.
“Smart intends to make e-mail as ubiquitous as SMS or text messaging,†Mojica says. “Advancing mobile e-mail will help Smart turn e-mail into another universally available service, regardless of handset used.â€
E-mail like texting
Subscribers like high-school student Nino Marc Casinday, 13, is now able to e-mail his widower father, who works as a nurse in Ontario, Canada, as often as he wants. “I keep my father updated on my activities and progress in school,†he says.
With Go Mail, Casinday takes advantage of affordable access to unlimited e-mail through his cellphone. For the flat rate of P20 a day, or only P199 a month, subscribers can read and reply to their MSN, Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo! e-mails, which are “pushed†to their cellphone. No need to pull and no need to download. E-mail is received as easily as text messages on the e-mail inbox, and sending one is as easy as composing an SMS.
Smart Go Mail is especially accessible to students since it works on all handset models. To avail oneself of Smart Go Mail, text MAIL
For quick, “bite-size†messaging, Smart OMS also features Uzzap, which offers unlimited instant messaging - or “chatting†- from mobile phones, for the flat rate of only P10 a day.
With Uzzap, students can also join common-interest chat rooms, or set up “private chat rooms,†say, with project group mates, or connect with other popular instant messaging services, all via their handset.
To download and install the Uzzap application for free, text UZZAP to 7272.
Staying connected
For John Mitch Consul, a high school junior whose family has just transferred residence, keeping in touch with friends means regular visits to the 500-million-strong social network Facebook.
“See you in FB,†he posted as his “status†to assure his old friends and former classmates he would stay in touch. This “status update†is just one of about 25 billion unique pieces of information that Facebook members like Consul reportedly share on the site, along with photos, notes and links, among others.
Under Smart OMS, Consul and his peers can share hundreds more photos and keep updating their status by taking advantage of the Web Unli service. For the fixed price of only P20 a day per site, Web Unli offers 24 hours of unlimited access via mobile phone to some of the most popular social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Plurk, Multiply, Friendster, Photobucket and Flickr.
For the same affordable rate, they can also access news and current affairs sites such as BBC, TMZ, ESPN, and even NBA. Other sites such as Cosmopolitan, eBay, Amazon, Wikipedia and online directory EYP are also accessible via Web Unli at only P20 a day per site.
Unlimited browsing
Students can access Google, Yahoo! News, Wikipedia, and other reference materials for research using UnliSurf 50, which offers 24 hours of unlimited mobile browsing for only P50.
UnliSurf 300 is good for seven days for only P300, while UnliSurf 1200 offers 30 days or a whole month of unlimited mobile browsing for only P1,200. With the unlimited browsing package, the student can also do unlimited chat and e-mail via the available providers on the Web.
To take advantage of these plans that fit students’ preference and budget, simply visit http://ping.fm/pFkNJ using a Smart cellphone and select the package from the list, or text SURF to 211 to get information about the service.
“We’re making it much easier for students to access the Internet while on the go, with the device that they have in their pockets all day,†says Mojica.
“Smart’s network has the reach and capacity to support the growing needs and more defined preferences of our subscribers,†he adds.
To access any of the Smart OMS services, visit http://ping.fm/ytA50 or using a mobile phone, http://ping.fm/q7Mq2
Telco supports Pagasa project
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration’s (Pagasa) state-of-the-art project aimed at greatly enhancing the weather bureau’s flood forecasting capability in Metro Manila and other areas has found support in Globe Telecom.
The project called Establishment of Early Warning and Response System for Metro Manila will set up a network of advanced monitoring facilities that will include automatic weather stations, rainfall gauging stations, and water level gauging stations that will enable Pagasa to provide accurate and real-time weather forecasts and warnings.
Globe, along with other telecom firms, has allowed rainfall gauging stations to be put up in several of its cell sites.
Pagasa Administrator Prisco Nilo said the network of rainfall stations will be very crucial in calibrating the weather bureau’s Subic Bay and Tagaytay City radars in order to improve rainfall estimates and augment flood forecasting data for the metropolis.
The project will be ready in time for the rainy season with the recent signing of an agreement between Pagasa and the South Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (Koica) for the funding of the project.
The project called Establishment of Early Warning and Response System for Metro Manila will set up a network of advanced monitoring facilities that will include automatic weather stations, rainfall gauging stations, and water level gauging stations that will enable Pagasa to provide accurate and real-time weather forecasts and warnings.
Globe, along with other telecom firms, has allowed rainfall gauging stations to be put up in several of its cell sites.
Pagasa Administrator Prisco Nilo said the network of rainfall stations will be very crucial in calibrating the weather bureau’s Subic Bay and Tagaytay City radars in order to improve rainfall estimates and augment flood forecasting data for the metropolis.
The project will be ready in time for the rainy season with the recent signing of an agreement between Pagasa and the South Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (Koica) for the funding of the project.
Smart Bro WiMAX available in two plans!
Plan 999
Speed : Up to 1 Mbps
No. of Hours use : Unlimited
Requirements : Proof of identification and Proof of Address
Total Initial Payment : P999
Plan 799
Speed : Up to 512kbps
No. of Hours use : Unlimited
Requirements : Proof of identification and Proof of Address
Total Initial Payment : P799
Speed : Up to 1 Mbps
No. of Hours use : Unlimited
Requirements : Proof of identification and Proof of Address
Total Initial Payment : P999
Plan 799
Speed : Up to 512kbps
No. of Hours use : Unlimited
Requirements : Proof of identification and Proof of Address
Total Initial Payment : P799
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Online Messaging Service: Smart brings Internet to mobile phones
Tech-savvy youth can look forward to a new school year with a handy educational tool, mobile Internet.
Smart Communications Inc. has bundled its suite of Internet-based applications accessible via mobile phone under the category Online Messaging Services (OMS).
Danilo Mojica, head of Smart’s Wireless Consumer Division, notes that with four in every five Filipinos carrying a cellphone, the Internet is now more accessible to more people through OMS.
Students on a fixed allowance can take advantage of a variety of “all-you-can-use,†flat-fee data packages that offer unlimited e-mail, chat, social networking and surfing via their mobile phones.
Go Mail is under Smart OMS, so students don’t need high-end devices like smartphones or netbooks to access their e-mail and communicate with friends and family.
“Smart intends to make e-mail as ubiquitous as SMS or text messaging,†Mojica says. “Advancing mobile e-mail will help Smart turn e-mail into another universally available service, regardless of handset used.â€
E-mail like texting
Subscribers like high-school student Nino Marc Casinday, 13, is now able to e-mail his widower father, who works as a nurse in Ontario, Canada, as often as he wants. “I keep my father updated on my activities and progress in school,†he says.
With Go Mail, Casinday takes advantage of affordable access to unlimited e-mail through his cellphone. For the flat rate of P20 a day, or only P199 a month, subscribers can read and reply to their MSN, Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo! e-mails, which are “pushed†to their cellphone. No need to pull and no need to download. E-mail is received as easily as text messages on the e-mail inbox, and sending one is as easy as composing an SMS.
Smart Go Mail is especially accessible to students since it works on all handset models. To avail oneself of Smart Go Mail, text MAIL send to 7077 to trigger set-up instructions. Upon registration, text BUY send to 7077 (e.g. BUY MONTHLY to 7077)
For quick, “bite-size†messaging, Smart OMS also features Uzzap, which offers unlimited instant messaging - or “chatting†- from mobile phones, for the flat rate of only P10 a day.
With Uzzap, students can also join common-interest chat rooms, or set up “private chat rooms,†say, with project group mates, or connect with other popular instant messaging services, all via their handset.
To download and install the Uzzap application for free, text UZZAP to 7272.
Staying connected
For John Mitch Consul, a high school junior whose family has just transferred residence, keeping in touch with friends means regular visits to the 500-million-strong social network Facebook.
“See you in FB,†he posted as his “status†to assure his old friends and former classmates he would stay in touch. This “status update†is just one of about 25 billion unique pieces of information that Facebook members like Consul reportedly share on the site, along with photos, notes and links, among others.
Under Smart OMS, Consul and his peers can share hundreds more photos and keep updating their status by taking advantage of the Web Unli service. For the fixed price of only P20 a day per site, Web Unli offers 24 hours of unlimited access via mobile phone to some of the most popular social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Plurk, Multiply, Friendster, Photobucket and Flickr.
For the same affordable rate, they can also access news and current affairs sites such as BBC, TMZ, ESPN, and even NBA. Other sites such as Cosmopolitan, eBay, Amazon, Wikipedia and online directory EYP are also accessible via Web Unli at only P20 a day per site.
Unlimited browsing
Students can access Google, Yahoo! News, Wikipedia, and other reference materials for research using UnliSurf 50, which offers 24 hours of unlimited mobile browsing for only P50.
UnliSurf 300 is good for seven days for only P300, while UnliSurf 1200 offers 30 days or a whole month of unlimited mobile browsing for only P1,200. With the unlimited browsing package, the student can also do unlimited chat and e-mail via the available providers on the Web.
To take advantage of these plans that fit students’ preference and budget, simply visit http://ping.fm/fbO54 using a Smart cellphone and select the package from the list, or text SURF to 211 to get information about the service.
“We’re making it much easier for students to access the Internet while on the go, with the device that they have in their pockets all day,†says Mojica.
“Smart’s network has the reach and capacity to support the growing needs and more defined preferences of our subscribers,†he adds.
To access any of the Smart OMS services, visit http://ping.fm/TBGpR or using a mobile phone, http://ping.fm/oq93r
Smart Communications Inc. has bundled its suite of Internet-based applications accessible via mobile phone under the category Online Messaging Services (OMS).
Danilo Mojica, head of Smart’s Wireless Consumer Division, notes that with four in every five Filipinos carrying a cellphone, the Internet is now more accessible to more people through OMS.
Students on a fixed allowance can take advantage of a variety of “all-you-can-use,†flat-fee data packages that offer unlimited e-mail, chat, social networking and surfing via their mobile phones.
Go Mail is under Smart OMS, so students don’t need high-end devices like smartphones or netbooks to access their e-mail and communicate with friends and family.
“Smart intends to make e-mail as ubiquitous as SMS or text messaging,†Mojica says. “Advancing mobile e-mail will help Smart turn e-mail into another universally available service, regardless of handset used.â€
E-mail like texting
Subscribers like high-school student Nino Marc Casinday, 13, is now able to e-mail his widower father, who works as a nurse in Ontario, Canada, as often as he wants. “I keep my father updated on my activities and progress in school,†he says.
With Go Mail, Casinday takes advantage of affordable access to unlimited e-mail through his cellphone. For the flat rate of P20 a day, or only P199 a month, subscribers can read and reply to their MSN, Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo! e-mails, which are “pushed†to their cellphone. No need to pull and no need to download. E-mail is received as easily as text messages on the e-mail inbox, and sending one is as easy as composing an SMS.
Smart Go Mail is especially accessible to students since it works on all handset models. To avail oneself of Smart Go Mail, text MAIL
For quick, “bite-size†messaging, Smart OMS also features Uzzap, which offers unlimited instant messaging - or “chatting†- from mobile phones, for the flat rate of only P10 a day.
With Uzzap, students can also join common-interest chat rooms, or set up “private chat rooms,†say, with project group mates, or connect with other popular instant messaging services, all via their handset.
To download and install the Uzzap application for free, text UZZAP to 7272.
Staying connected
For John Mitch Consul, a high school junior whose family has just transferred residence, keeping in touch with friends means regular visits to the 500-million-strong social network Facebook.
“See you in FB,†he posted as his “status†to assure his old friends and former classmates he would stay in touch. This “status update†is just one of about 25 billion unique pieces of information that Facebook members like Consul reportedly share on the site, along with photos, notes and links, among others.
Under Smart OMS, Consul and his peers can share hundreds more photos and keep updating their status by taking advantage of the Web Unli service. For the fixed price of only P20 a day per site, Web Unli offers 24 hours of unlimited access via mobile phone to some of the most popular social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Plurk, Multiply, Friendster, Photobucket and Flickr.
For the same affordable rate, they can also access news and current affairs sites such as BBC, TMZ, ESPN, and even NBA. Other sites such as Cosmopolitan, eBay, Amazon, Wikipedia and online directory EYP are also accessible via Web Unli at only P20 a day per site.
Unlimited browsing
Students can access Google, Yahoo! News, Wikipedia, and other reference materials for research using UnliSurf 50, which offers 24 hours of unlimited mobile browsing for only P50.
UnliSurf 300 is good for seven days for only P300, while UnliSurf 1200 offers 30 days or a whole month of unlimited mobile browsing for only P1,200. With the unlimited browsing package, the student can also do unlimited chat and e-mail via the available providers on the Web.
To take advantage of these plans that fit students’ preference and budget, simply visit http://ping.fm/fbO54 using a Smart cellphone and select the package from the list, or text SURF to 211 to get information about the service.
“We’re making it much easier for students to access the Internet while on the go, with the device that they have in their pockets all day,†says Mojica.
“Smart’s network has the reach and capacity to support the growing needs and more defined preferences of our subscribers,†he adds.
To access any of the Smart OMS services, visit http://ping.fm/TBGpR or using a mobile phone, http://ping.fm/oq93r
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Facebook is new king of the Web
Move over, Google and Yahoo. Here comes the king of the Web: Facebook!
It used to be that Google and Yahoo were the most visited sites on the Web.
But just this last month, a report released by Google themselves and by Hitwise, a US-based Web monitor, showed social networking site Facebook lording it over the Internet.
To date Facebook has 540 million unique visitors per month or roughly 35.2% of the online population. It also hit 570 billion page views each month.
In the Philippines, the popularity of Facebook seems unstoppable.
Even if Friendster is still tops in terms of number of members, Facebook has much more activity, thanks to the numerous web apps and games such as Poker, Mafia Wars, Cafe World, and Farmville.
Virtual farming
Time Magazine recently came out with a list of 50 worst inventions of all time, and included Farmville, one of the most popular Facebook games.
According to Time, even if it is clearly addictive, Farmville shouldn't even be considered a video game given its concept of mindless chores tending to a digital farm. Players simply have to click away to take care of their crops--clearly a time and productivity waster, according to the magazine.
Pinoy Farmville addicts were quick to defend the popular game.
"I think it's unfair na sabihin nila Farmville is worst invention. In Farmville kasi you don't just click mindlessly. You also have to strategize. You plan your game. You also meet new friends," said Patrick Lim.
"I think it's pretty unfair to say that, kasi Farmville is [a] stress reliever eh. After a day's work, it's one way na to de-stress yourself," added Gerald Bitonio.
"I really think Farmville is a challenge. You need to strategize, and it's also a great way to meet people," said Hanna Do.
Meanwhile, one web technologist from Canada recently declared May 31 as Quit Facebook Day, in an apparent attempt to hit back at the new king of the Web.
Given the fact that millions all over the world are hooked on the Web, experts advise netizens to organize their time well when they surf the Web or even play games. This is to avoid paying the price of wasting too much time or even a portion of their lives to any kind of addiction.
It used to be that Google and Yahoo were the most visited sites on the Web.
But just this last month, a report released by Google themselves and by Hitwise, a US-based Web monitor, showed social networking site Facebook lording it over the Internet.
To date Facebook has 540 million unique visitors per month or roughly 35.2% of the online population. It also hit 570 billion page views each month.
In the Philippines, the popularity of Facebook seems unstoppable.
Even if Friendster is still tops in terms of number of members, Facebook has much more activity, thanks to the numerous web apps and games such as Poker, Mafia Wars, Cafe World, and Farmville.
Virtual farming
Time Magazine recently came out with a list of 50 worst inventions of all time, and included Farmville, one of the most popular Facebook games.
According to Time, even if it is clearly addictive, Farmville shouldn't even be considered a video game given its concept of mindless chores tending to a digital farm. Players simply have to click away to take care of their crops--clearly a time and productivity waster, according to the magazine.
Pinoy Farmville addicts were quick to defend the popular game.
"I think it's unfair na sabihin nila Farmville is worst invention. In Farmville kasi you don't just click mindlessly. You also have to strategize. You plan your game. You also meet new friends," said Patrick Lim.
"I think it's pretty unfair to say that, kasi Farmville is [a] stress reliever eh. After a day's work, it's one way na to de-stress yourself," added Gerald Bitonio.
"I really think Farmville is a challenge. You need to strategize, and it's also a great way to meet people," said Hanna Do.
Meanwhile, one web technologist from Canada recently declared May 31 as Quit Facebook Day, in an apparent attempt to hit back at the new king of the Web.
Given the fact that millions all over the world are hooked on the Web, experts advise netizens to organize their time well when they surf the Web or even play games. This is to avoid paying the price of wasting too much time or even a portion of their lives to any kind of addiction.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Govt to adopt Japanese standard for digital TV
With only a few weeks left before the Arroyo administration steps down, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) announced on Thursday that it is adopting the Japanese standard for the Philippines’ migration to digital TV.
In a draft circular, the regulator said the country would be adopting the Integrated Services Digital Broadcast-Terrestrial (ISDB-T) as the sole standard for digital terrestrial TV (DTT) services nationwide.
The NTC said its decision was based on the recommendation of the majority of broadcast stakeholders, including the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.
ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp., GMA Network Inc., ABC Development Corp. and the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. group earlier expressed preference for the Japanese platform over the European Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld standard.
The NTC has set a public hearing (jun11) on its draft circular.
NTC said ISDB-T is a flexible digital TV transmission system that is capable of providing three levels of hierarchical modulation (audio, video and data services) to fixed, mobile and handheld terminals without the need for an additional transmission facility.
In her visit to Japan last year, President Arroyo promised to Prime Minister Taro Aso that the Philippines will support the adoption of the ISDB-T platform.
Tokyo also offered to invest in a set-top box factory in the Philippines so Manila will be enticed to adopt the Japanese standard.
Digital TV is a system for broadcasting and receiving digital sound and video signals that requires a specially designed and more advanced TV set than the traditional analog box. This means that upon migration to DTT, consumers who still have analog TV sets would have to buy set-top boxes to receive digital signals.
According to the NTC, the set-top boxes for the Japanese standard would cost $11, while the price for the European standard gadget would range from $12 to $13.
The regulator estimates that around 14 million Filipino households use analog TV sets. The country originally planned to migrate from analog to digital TV in 2015.
Three years ago, the NTC issued a draft circular adopting the European standard, but it was stalled when then-Commissioner Ronald Solis resigned from his post.
In a draft circular, the regulator said the country would be adopting the Integrated Services Digital Broadcast-Terrestrial (ISDB-T) as the sole standard for digital terrestrial TV (DTT) services nationwide.
The NTC said its decision was based on the recommendation of the majority of broadcast stakeholders, including the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.
ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp., GMA Network Inc., ABC Development Corp. and the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. group earlier expressed preference for the Japanese platform over the European Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld standard.
The NTC has set a public hearing (jun11) on its draft circular.
NTC said ISDB-T is a flexible digital TV transmission system that is capable of providing three levels of hierarchical modulation (audio, video and data services) to fixed, mobile and handheld terminals without the need for an additional transmission facility.
In her visit to Japan last year, President Arroyo promised to Prime Minister Taro Aso that the Philippines will support the adoption of the ISDB-T platform.
Tokyo also offered to invest in a set-top box factory in the Philippines so Manila will be enticed to adopt the Japanese standard.
Digital TV is a system for broadcasting and receiving digital sound and video signals that requires a specially designed and more advanced TV set than the traditional analog box. This means that upon migration to DTT, consumers who still have analog TV sets would have to buy set-top boxes to receive digital signals.
According to the NTC, the set-top boxes for the Japanese standard would cost $11, while the price for the European standard gadget would range from $12 to $13.
The regulator estimates that around 14 million Filipino households use analog TV sets. The country originally planned to migrate from analog to digital TV in 2015.
Three years ago, the NTC issued a draft circular adopting the European standard, but it was stalled when then-Commissioner Ronald Solis resigned from his post.
New Globe Tattoo microSIM is your iPad's perfect partner
Hardcore gadget geeks who have managed to snag the much-awaited Apple iPad 3G now have the perfect mate for their device: the first-ever microSIM available only from Globe Tattoo, a power surfer's ticket to a no-holds-barred Web experience. Anytime you're on the move with the Globe microSIM and your iPad 3G, you can browse the Internet, send email and instant messages, and virtually chat with online pals, day or night.
Designed especially for use in tablet devices like the iPad 3G, the Globe microSIM is powered by a new unlimited data plan exclusively available from Globe Tattoo. The unlimited plan is a pure data plan ideal for daylong browsing so you can constantly tweet, update your status, email, and post photos or videos whenever the mood strikes you, all for only P999 a month.
Now there's no need to take scissors to a standard SIM card to make it fit into the iPad SIM card slot. Globe's spanking-new microSIM is small enough to fit the iPad 3G and hook you up to Globe's wireless 3G network so you can seamlessly cybersurf anywhere in the Philippines.
Manny Escosa, head of Globe Tattoo, explains, "The Globe microSIM is our nod to the gadget lovers out there who want the richest online experience they can get on their iPad 3G. And since the microSIM is powered by our new unlimited data plan, it's now a snap for iPad fans to get Globe-connected and get the best possible browsing experience."
A handy tip for newbies: If you've got the iPad in your hands and are wondering how you can easily distinguish the iPad 3G from the Wi-Fi-only model, just check the back of the device; if there's a black strip at the top, you're holding the 3G model which is a perfect fit for Globe's unlimited data plan.
So if you've already got your iPad 3G and you're dying to take it for a spin, drop by any Globe store to get on the Net. Grab your Globe Tattoo microSIM and sign up for the Globe unlimited data plan for just P999, or if prepaid is your ticket to online bliss, you can get Globe's microSIM for just P50 and start surfing for P5 for every 15 minutes.
How to use your microSIM for Globe unlimited data plan
After inserting the micro-SIM into the SIM tray/slot, follow these easy steps:
Go to Settings.
Press Reset then Reset Network Settings.
Go to Cellular Data.
Press APN.
Change APN to:
Postpaid: internet.globe.com.ph
Prepaid: http.globe.com.ph
Deactivate Wi-Fi to be able to browse using the SIM (click Wi-Fi menu, turn-off)
Note: Every time you remove your micro-SIM and then re-insert it, you need to go through Steps 1-6 again.
Designed especially for use in tablet devices like the iPad 3G, the Globe microSIM is powered by a new unlimited data plan exclusively available from Globe Tattoo. The unlimited plan is a pure data plan ideal for daylong browsing so you can constantly tweet, update your status, email, and post photos or videos whenever the mood strikes you, all for only P999 a month.
Now there's no need to take scissors to a standard SIM card to make it fit into the iPad SIM card slot. Globe's spanking-new microSIM is small enough to fit the iPad 3G and hook you up to Globe's wireless 3G network so you can seamlessly cybersurf anywhere in the Philippines.
Manny Escosa, head of Globe Tattoo, explains, "The Globe microSIM is our nod to the gadget lovers out there who want the richest online experience they can get on their iPad 3G. And since the microSIM is powered by our new unlimited data plan, it's now a snap for iPad fans to get Globe-connected and get the best possible browsing experience."
A handy tip for newbies: If you've got the iPad in your hands and are wondering how you can easily distinguish the iPad 3G from the Wi-Fi-only model, just check the back of the device; if there's a black strip at the top, you're holding the 3G model which is a perfect fit for Globe's unlimited data plan.
So if you've already got your iPad 3G and you're dying to take it for a spin, drop by any Globe store to get on the Net. Grab your Globe Tattoo microSIM and sign up for the Globe unlimited data plan for just P999, or if prepaid is your ticket to online bliss, you can get Globe's microSIM for just P50 and start surfing for P5 for every 15 minutes.
How to use your microSIM for Globe unlimited data plan
After inserting the micro-SIM into the SIM tray/slot, follow these easy steps:
Go to Settings.
Press Reset then Reset Network Settings.
Go to Cellular Data.
Press APN.
Change APN to:
Postpaid: internet.globe.com.ph
Prepaid: http.globe.com.ph
Deactivate Wi-Fi to be able to browse using the SIM (click Wi-Fi menu, turn-off)
Note: Every time you remove your micro-SIM and then re-insert it, you need to go through Steps 1-6 again.
iPhone 4 announced, launching June 24 for $199 with new FaceTime video chat
pple has unveiled its new iPhone 4 after a couple wild, unprecedented months of leaks. Sure, it looks exactly like we expected it to (Steve compares it to an old Leica camera), with a glass front and back, but it's what's on the inside that counts, kids. The stainless steel band that goes around the phone is an antenna system, while also providing the main structure of the phone, though it's plugged into the same old GSM / UMTS radio you all know and love -- there's a reason they didn't call it the iPhone 4G. There's also of course that front facing camera we were all anticipating, a rear camera with LED flash, and a new high resolution display that doubles the pixels in each direction (960 x 640) for a 4X overall pixel count increase -- Apple calls it a "Retina Display." It's rated at 326ppi, which Apple claims is beyond the human eye's limit of distinction. Check out an example of the new screen up against the iPhone 3G after the break. Similar to the iPad, it's an IPS display, offering 800:1 contrast. Naturally, it's still the same old 3.5-inch size. Under the hood is the A4 processor that runs the iPad. Despite the new engine (and the 25% thinner chassis), Apple managed to make the battery slightly larger, and the new handset is rated at 7 hours of 3G talk, 6 hours of 3G browsing, 10 hours of WiFi browsing, 10 hours of video, and 40 hours of music. Oh, and that WiFi? It's 802.11n now. The camera has been bumped to 5 megapixels, with 5X digital zoom and a "backside illuminated sensor," which now can also record HD video at 720p / 30fps.
On the software front, applications will automatically get high resolution text and buttons as part of iOS 4 (the OS previously known as iPhone OS 4), and with "a little bit of work" developers can make their entire app compatible with the new resolution display. Developers will also get access to a new gyroscope, giving devs "six axis" motion control between the gyroscope, accelerometer, and compass, with a new "Core Motion" API to deal with it all. Users won't be left out in the cold, however: they can mess around with that new HD video using a brand new iMovie app, if they shell out $4.99 for it. If anyone's feeling particularly frisky, iOS 4 even lets you switch your default search provider to Bing. Last but certainly not least, that new front camera is enabled for video chat using the new "FaceTime" feature. It's a WiFi-only (for now) video calling feature that works from iPhone 4 to iPhone 4 with "no setup" involved, and can flip over to the rear camera if your grandparents get tired of your face.
The phone will be available in white or black, retailing at $199 for the 16GB model and $299 for 32GB. They go on sale June 24th, and AT&T will be giving some extra grace upgrade timing -- up to six months early. The 3GS will be dropped to $99 and the 3G will disappear completely. Pre-orders start in a week, with 5 countries at launch (US, France, Germany, UK, Japan), with 18 more following in July. Apple will also be selling a first party case for $29, and a dock for the same price.
On the software front, applications will automatically get high resolution text and buttons as part of iOS 4 (the OS previously known as iPhone OS 4), and with "a little bit of work" developers can make their entire app compatible with the new resolution display. Developers will also get access to a new gyroscope, giving devs "six axis" motion control between the gyroscope, accelerometer, and compass, with a new "Core Motion" API to deal with it all. Users won't be left out in the cold, however: they can mess around with that new HD video using a brand new iMovie app, if they shell out $4.99 for it. If anyone's feeling particularly frisky, iOS 4 even lets you switch your default search provider to Bing. Last but certainly not least, that new front camera is enabled for video chat using the new "FaceTime" feature. It's a WiFi-only (for now) video calling feature that works from iPhone 4 to iPhone 4 with "no setup" involved, and can flip over to the rear camera if your grandparents get tired of your face.
The phone will be available in white or black, retailing at $199 for the 16GB model and $299 for 32GB. They go on sale June 24th, and AT&T will be giving some extra grace upgrade timing -- up to six months early. The 3GS will be dropped to $99 and the 3G will disappear completely. Pre-orders start in a week, with 5 countries at launch (US, France, Germany, UK, Japan), with 18 more following in July. Apple will also be selling a first party case for $29, and a dock for the same price.
Facebook streams updates to Yahoo! websites
Internet youngster Facebook on Monday begins letting members stream updates to websites operated by Silicon Valley old-timer Yahoo!
Facebook and Yahoo! are letting users link accounts at the world's leading social networking service and the pioneering online enterprise that is re-inventing itself after being eclipsed by Google in online search.
"More and more, people rely on social networks to share and discover information that matters to them," said Yahoo! senior director of social platforms and developer network Cody Simms.
"We are bringing all of these elements together to give people one simple, trusted place to share information and connect."
Yahoo! is bent on carving a new niche for itself by turning its globally popular properties such as free Web email, news, sports and Flickr into the center of people's online lives.
The more time people spend at Yahoo! websites the more opportunities the company has to make money on advertising.
"We think this offers great benefit to users across the Web, and it's key to helping Yahoo! extend our reach and increase engagement," Simms said of the alliance with Facebook, which is based in nearby Palo Alto, California.
People who connect Yahoo! and Facebook will be able to see their Facebook newsfeeds on Yahoo! pages and share content from Yahoo! properties to Facebook.
In an evident move to preempt concerns regarding how the partnership might affect people's privacy, Yahoo! made it simpler to manage what information is shared. Privacy settings can be managed with tools at pulse.yahoo.com.
Earlier this year, Yahoo! announced a deal to integrate feeds from hot microblogging service Twitter into its online offerings.
Yahoo! also has a partnership to incorporate games from Zynga, the company behind "Farmville," "Mafia Wars" and other titles with multitudes of fans at Facebook.
Yahoo! is gingerly expanding social-networking features while trying to avoid privacy stumbles made by titans Facebook and Google.
Yahoo! Updates launched nearly two years ago to let people stream updates about their lives, thoughts or activities at its free Web services such as email and instant messaging but sharing has been limited.
Yahoo! is expanding the feature in its email service to include public updates sent from Messenger and Contacts.
The Sunnyvale, California, company is abandoning the "heavy lifting" of running an Internet search engine, instead opting to rely on Microsoft's new Bing technology to provide query results it will then tailor to its users.
Yahoo! and Microsoft unveiled a 10-year Web search and advertising partnership in July that set the stage for a joint offensive against Google.
Under the agreement, Yahoo! will use Microsoft's search engine on its own sites while providing the exclusive global sales force for premium advertisers.
Facebook and Yahoo! are letting users link accounts at the world's leading social networking service and the pioneering online enterprise that is re-inventing itself after being eclipsed by Google in online search.
"More and more, people rely on social networks to share and discover information that matters to them," said Yahoo! senior director of social platforms and developer network Cody Simms.
"We are bringing all of these elements together to give people one simple, trusted place to share information and connect."
Yahoo! is bent on carving a new niche for itself by turning its globally popular properties such as free Web email, news, sports and Flickr into the center of people's online lives.
The more time people spend at Yahoo! websites the more opportunities the company has to make money on advertising.
"We think this offers great benefit to users across the Web, and it's key to helping Yahoo! extend our reach and increase engagement," Simms said of the alliance with Facebook, which is based in nearby Palo Alto, California.
People who connect Yahoo! and Facebook will be able to see their Facebook newsfeeds on Yahoo! pages and share content from Yahoo! properties to Facebook.
In an evident move to preempt concerns regarding how the partnership might affect people's privacy, Yahoo! made it simpler to manage what information is shared. Privacy settings can be managed with tools at pulse.yahoo.com.
Earlier this year, Yahoo! announced a deal to integrate feeds from hot microblogging service Twitter into its online offerings.
Yahoo! also has a partnership to incorporate games from Zynga, the company behind "Farmville," "Mafia Wars" and other titles with multitudes of fans at Facebook.
Yahoo! is gingerly expanding social-networking features while trying to avoid privacy stumbles made by titans Facebook and Google.
Yahoo! Updates launched nearly two years ago to let people stream updates about their lives, thoughts or activities at its free Web services such as email and instant messaging but sharing has been limited.
Yahoo! is expanding the feature in its email service to include public updates sent from Messenger and Contacts.
The Sunnyvale, California, company is abandoning the "heavy lifting" of running an Internet search engine, instead opting to rely on Microsoft's new Bing technology to provide query results it will then tailor to its users.
Yahoo! and Microsoft unveiled a 10-year Web search and advertising partnership in July that set the stage for a joint offensive against Google.
Under the agreement, Yahoo! will use Microsoft's search engine on its own sites while providing the exclusive global sales force for premium advertisers.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
RepublikaTM AllNetCombo
MECHANICs
1. Open to TM subscribers only.
2. Subscriber will receive a confirmation message that he may now send 100 SMS and 10 minutes to all local networks*, good for 1 day.
3. Does not require any minimum maintaining balance.
4. Upon confirmation of registration, the subscriber's load will be deducted PhP 25.
5. To text:
1. The next 100 TM-TM/GHP/Smart/TNT/Sun/Red Mobile minutes texts and 10 TM-TM/GHP/Smart/TNT/Sun/Red Mobile minutes will not be charged.
2. Text messages beyond the allocation of the promo will be charged to the Free SMS if applicable and regular rate if none.
6. To make a call:
1. No need to dial prefix
2. Subscriber's next 10 TM-TM/GHP/Smart/TNT/Sun/Red Mobile minutes will not be charged anymore because subscribers were already charged upon registration.
3. The 10-minute allocation is consumable whether over just one call or over more than one call.
4. The 10-minute allocation may be consumed in any combination desired (e.g. 10 calls at 1 minute each or 4 calls where the first 3 calls are 2 minutes each to TM and the 4th call is 4 minutes to Smart).
5. Subscriber's calls will automatically end after the 10th minute.
6. Limitations:
1. A fraction of a minute is considered one minute.
2. Calls to landline will continue to be charged at regular TM-landline call rates.
7. If subscriber has consumed all the 100 texts and 10 minutes before the 24 hour expiry, he/she may register again. However, subscriber needs to opt-out by texting ALLNETCOMBO OFF to 8888 before the next registration.
8. Subscriber cannot register to any TM promo while registered to ALLNETCOMBO.
9. Subscriber will not be able to register to ALLNETCOMBO while still registered to AstigTxt10, TMUnli, Sulitxt5, AstigTxtAll, Todo Tawag Magdamag, AstigTawag and AstigUnli.
10. Not available to subscribers on roaming mode.
* TM, Globe, Tattoo, Smart Buddy, Talk N' Text, Sun, Red Mobile
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
1. What is TM ALL NET COMBO?
TM ALL NET COMBO is the new call and text combo from TM! It's the only all-network call and text combo out in the market!
For only PhP 25, a subscriber can get 100 texts and 10 minutes which can be used to contact TM, Globe, Tattoo, Smart, TNT, Sun and Red Mobile.
The 100 texts and 10 minutes to all networks will be valid for 24 hours.
2. Who can register to TM ALL NET COMBO?
TM ALL NET COMBO is only open to TM subscribers.
3. How do I avail of TM ALL NET COMBO?
It's easy to avail of ALL NET COMBO, just text ALLNETCOMBO to 8888. You will be charged P25 for each registration.
4. After I register, how can I use ALL NET COMBO?
Wait for the confirmation message before using ALL NET COMBO. While you have not received the confirmation message, you will be charged regular rates for each text and minute you use.
5. How do I use my ALL NET COMBO texts?
After receiving the confirmation message, your next 100 texts to any local network will not be charged. You don't need to maintain any maintaining balance to send a text message when you're registered to ALL NET COMBO.
6. How do I use my ALL NET COMBO minutes?
After receiveing the confirmation message, your next 10 minutes to any local network will not be charged.
You don't have to maintain any maintaing balance to make a call when you're registered to ALL NET COMBO.
7. Am I only allowed to use up to 10 minutes in just one call?
The 10 minute allocation can be used for several calls. A fraction of a minute is considered 1 minute.
Examples - you can use the 10 minutes for 3 calls of 1 minutes each and the 4th call to be 7 minutes.
8. Can I register to ALL NET COMBO while I'm registered to other TM promos?
No, ALL NET COMBO cannot co-exist with any registration-based TM promo.
9. Can I register to other promos while I'm registered to ALL NET COMBO?
No, ALL NET COMBO cannot co-exist with any registration-based TM Promo. If you want to register to another promo, you have to opt-out of your ALL NET COMBO subscription first by sending ALLNETCOMBO OFF to 8888.
10. If I finish the 100 texts and 10 minutes before the 24-hour expiry, can I register to ALL NET COMBO again?
You can register again, but you need to opt-out first by texting ALLNETCOMBO OFF to 8888 before you can attempt to register to ALL NET COMBO again.
11. If I opt-out, what will happen to my unused texts and minutes?
Once you opt-out, whatever texts and minutes you were not able to use will be considered expired.
1. Open to TM subscribers only.
2. Subscriber will receive a confirmation message that he may now send 100 SMS and 10 minutes to all local networks*, good for 1 day.
3. Does not require any minimum maintaining balance.
4. Upon confirmation of registration, the subscriber's load will be deducted PhP 25.
5. To text:
1. The next 100 TM-TM/GHP/Smart/TNT/Sun/Red Mobile minutes texts and 10 TM-TM/GHP/Smart/TNT/Sun/Red Mobile minutes will not be charged.
2. Text messages beyond the allocation of the promo will be charged to the Free SMS if applicable and regular rate if none.
6. To make a call:
1. No need to dial prefix
2. Subscriber's next 10 TM-TM/GHP/Smart/TNT/Sun/Red Mobile minutes will not be charged anymore because subscribers were already charged upon registration.
3. The 10-minute allocation is consumable whether over just one call or over more than one call.
4. The 10-minute allocation may be consumed in any combination desired (e.g. 10 calls at 1 minute each or 4 calls where the first 3 calls are 2 minutes each to TM and the 4th call is 4 minutes to Smart).
5. Subscriber's calls will automatically end after the 10th minute.
6. Limitations:
1. A fraction of a minute is considered one minute.
2. Calls to landline will continue to be charged at regular TM-landline call rates.
7. If subscriber has consumed all the 100 texts and 10 minutes before the 24 hour expiry, he/she may register again. However, subscriber needs to opt-out by texting ALLNETCOMBO OFF to 8888 before the next registration.
8. Subscriber cannot register to any TM promo while registered to ALLNETCOMBO.
9. Subscriber will not be able to register to ALLNETCOMBO while still registered to AstigTxt10, TMUnli, Sulitxt5, AstigTxtAll, Todo Tawag Magdamag, AstigTawag and AstigUnli.
10. Not available to subscribers on roaming mode.
* TM, Globe, Tattoo, Smart Buddy, Talk N' Text, Sun, Red Mobile
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
1. What is TM ALL NET COMBO?
TM ALL NET COMBO is the new call and text combo from TM! It's the only all-network call and text combo out in the market!
For only PhP 25, a subscriber can get 100 texts and 10 minutes which can be used to contact TM, Globe, Tattoo, Smart, TNT, Sun and Red Mobile.
The 100 texts and 10 minutes to all networks will be valid for 24 hours.
2. Who can register to TM ALL NET COMBO?
TM ALL NET COMBO is only open to TM subscribers.
3. How do I avail of TM ALL NET COMBO?
It's easy to avail of ALL NET COMBO, just text ALLNETCOMBO to 8888. You will be charged P25 for each registration.
4. After I register, how can I use ALL NET COMBO?
Wait for the confirmation message before using ALL NET COMBO. While you have not received the confirmation message, you will be charged regular rates for each text and minute you use.
5. How do I use my ALL NET COMBO texts?
After receiving the confirmation message, your next 100 texts to any local network will not be charged. You don't need to maintain any maintaining balance to send a text message when you're registered to ALL NET COMBO.
6. How do I use my ALL NET COMBO minutes?
After receiveing the confirmation message, your next 10 minutes to any local network will not be charged.
You don't have to maintain any maintaing balance to make a call when you're registered to ALL NET COMBO.
7. Am I only allowed to use up to 10 minutes in just one call?
The 10 minute allocation can be used for several calls. A fraction of a minute is considered 1 minute.
Examples - you can use the 10 minutes for 3 calls of 1 minutes each and the 4th call to be 7 minutes.
8. Can I register to ALL NET COMBO while I'm registered to other TM promos?
No, ALL NET COMBO cannot co-exist with any registration-based TM promo.
9. Can I register to other promos while I'm registered to ALL NET COMBO?
No, ALL NET COMBO cannot co-exist with any registration-based TM Promo. If you want to register to another promo, you have to opt-out of your ALL NET COMBO subscription first by sending ALLNETCOMBO OFF to 8888.
10. If I finish the 100 texts and 10 minutes before the 24-hour expiry, can I register to ALL NET COMBO again?
You can register again, but you need to opt-out first by texting ALLNETCOMBO OFF to 8888 before you can attempt to register to ALL NET COMBO again.
11. If I opt-out, what will happen to my unused texts and minutes?
Once you opt-out, whatever texts and minutes you were not able to use will be considered expired.
Asus Unveils Eee Pad
Powered by an Intel Core 2 ULV and Windows 7, Asus’ unique version of a tablet/slate called Eee Pad is officially unveiled today.
Asus Eee Pad comes in two sorts, the 12-inch model Eee Pad (EP121) and the 10-inch Eee Pad (EP101TC). The first one is more powerful than the latter in terms of specs. Moreover, the 10-inch kid runs Windows Embedded Compact 7.
Minus the keyboard and trackpad, expect the EP121 to work like your regular CULV ultraportable notebook (something similar to the Asus UL20). The only thing differs is that there are options for a hybrid keyboard/docking station.
With just a single recharge, these Eee Pads could run a battery life of about 10 hours.
Really, consumers have reasons to wait for the announcement about Asus Eee Pad’s coming to market.
Asus Eee Pad comes in two sorts, the 12-inch model Eee Pad (EP121) and the 10-inch Eee Pad (EP101TC). The first one is more powerful than the latter in terms of specs. Moreover, the 10-inch kid runs Windows Embedded Compact 7.
Minus the keyboard and trackpad, expect the EP121 to work like your regular CULV ultraportable notebook (something similar to the Asus UL20). The only thing differs is that there are options for a hybrid keyboard/docking station.
With just a single recharge, these Eee Pads could run a battery life of about 10 hours.
Really, consumers have reasons to wait for the announcement about Asus Eee Pad’s coming to market.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Nokia C1 and C2: First ever dual-SIM for Nokia
While other handset manufacturers like Samsung and LG have had their own dual-SIM phones for quite some time now, Nokia just made the announcement earlier that they’re joining the party with the Nokia C1 and Nokia C2 (and no, it’s not the bottled tea drink).
Of course, as expected, the dual-SIM handsets that Nokia is releasing are pretty basic and entry-level units (think sub-Php2k Nokia 1100).
The Nokia C1 has 3 sub-models (C1-00, C1-01 and C1-02) with the C1-00 being the cheapest among the three at around Php1,700 before taxes. The handset can run on standby for 6 weeks — the longest in any Nokia phone ever. Not really dual but double SIM (meaning, one SIM active at a time).
And when they said basic entry-level phone, they really mean no features except the ability to make calls and SMS plus FM radio. That’s it! Oh, and a built-in flashlight.
The Nokia C2 has a bit more features in it — Bluetooth, VGA camera, WAP browsing and GPRS with the FM tuner capable of FM recording. The price isn’t very far from the C1 at around Php2,500. Both SIM cards are active with one of the slots hot-swappable (can be switched or replaced anytime even while the phone is turned on).
Being the highest-selling mobile handset brand, I think it’s high time for Nokia to give in to market demand. As I said in my previous entry (Why the resistance to dual-SIM phone?), other local handset brands (including the China phones) have already made a killing selling dual-SIM handsets. One dual-SIM distributor even proudly announced they’re selling 20,000 units a month of the MyPhone (and that’s just one distributor).
Units will be out sometime in 3rd quarter of 2010.
Of course, as expected, the dual-SIM handsets that Nokia is releasing are pretty basic and entry-level units (think sub-Php2k Nokia 1100).
The Nokia C1 has 3 sub-models (C1-00, C1-01 and C1-02) with the C1-00 being the cheapest among the three at around Php1,700 before taxes. The handset can run on standby for 6 weeks — the longest in any Nokia phone ever. Not really dual but double SIM (meaning, one SIM active at a time).
And when they said basic entry-level phone, they really mean no features except the ability to make calls and SMS plus FM radio. That’s it! Oh, and a built-in flashlight.
The Nokia C2 has a bit more features in it — Bluetooth, VGA camera, WAP browsing and GPRS with the FM tuner capable of FM recording. The price isn’t very far from the C1 at around Php2,500. Both SIM cards are active with one of the slots hot-swappable (can be switched or replaced anytime even while the phone is turned on).
Being the highest-selling mobile handset brand, I think it’s high time for Nokia to give in to market demand. As I said in my previous entry (Why the resistance to dual-SIM phone?), other local handset brands (including the China phones) have already made a killing selling dual-SIM handsets. One dual-SIM distributor even proudly announced they’re selling 20,000 units a month of the MyPhone (and that’s just one distributor).
Units will be out sometime in 3rd quarter of 2010.
TORQUE TQ800 Trinity: Triple SIM, WiFi, Mobile TV
It is called the TORQUE TQ800 Trinity. Say bye bye to dual SIM: this one has slots for three SIM cards. They call it “triple SIM, triple standby†which simply means that while one of the SIM cards is in use, the other two lines remain active. Essentially, you can have up to six numbers on this phone as it also supports GSM-based “wireless landline†numbers.
That’s not all. It also sports WiFi and mobile TV. Although a lot can be improved with the browser, it does access Facebook, Twitter, GMail and the rest of your daily social networking staples. I’m honestly impressed. TORQUE has always been pure comedy when coming up with a real estate design and this time around they’re copying a BlackBerry with a Pearl trackball as the center navigation instead of a joystick. Although response time lags a bit, the phone is still functional. In fact, they’ve even copied a bit of the BlackBerry UI.
Here are the specs:
Triple SIM, Triple Standby
WiFi
QWERTY Keyboard
Trackball
Free-To-Air Mobile TV
Quadband GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
2.4 inch QVGA LCD screen (320 x 240)
Dual Cameras: 2MP compatible camera with video
JAVA/ WAP 2.0 / GPRS
BLuetooth 2.0 with A2DP (you can listen to audio wirelessly using a headset)
FM Radio
MicroSD expansion up to 8GB
Motion sensor
I’ll have a more comprehensive hands on as I get to play with this little thing. It doesn’t feel like an AAA grade phone, but the feature set is impressive. It works fine. No pricing yet. I’ll update you guys.
That’s not all. It also sports WiFi and mobile TV. Although a lot can be improved with the browser, it does access Facebook, Twitter, GMail and the rest of your daily social networking staples. I’m honestly impressed. TORQUE has always been pure comedy when coming up with a real estate design and this time around they’re copying a BlackBerry with a Pearl trackball as the center navigation instead of a joystick. Although response time lags a bit, the phone is still functional. In fact, they’ve even copied a bit of the BlackBerry UI.
Here are the specs:
Triple SIM, Triple Standby
WiFi
QWERTY Keyboard
Trackball
Free-To-Air Mobile TV
Quadband GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
2.4 inch QVGA LCD screen (320 x 240)
Dual Cameras: 2MP compatible camera with video
JAVA/ WAP 2.0 / GPRS
BLuetooth 2.0 with A2DP (you can listen to audio wirelessly using a headset)
FM Radio
MicroSD expansion up to 8GB
Motion sensor
I’ll have a more comprehensive hands on as I get to play with this little thing. It doesn’t feel like an AAA grade phone, but the feature set is impressive. It works fine. No pricing yet. I’ll update you guys.
Nokia C2 - Price, Specs - Nokia C2-00 Dual SIM Details
Looking for a good dual-SIM second phone by a trusted phone brand? Then you might want to hold out your purchase until this phone sees release here:
Along with three Nokia C1 models, Nokia C2-00 forms the quartet of Nokia's first dual-SIM handsets. These phones target users from developing countries where sharing a phone within the family and using multiple service providers to avail of discounts and save money run rampant.
Of course, the biggest draw of Nokia C2 is its dual-SIM, dual standby capability - meaning both SIM cards can be active on the phone concurrently (vs. C1's one button active SIM card switch feature ~ more about this in a separate C1 post) - but its hardly all it can offer. The phone also has VGA camera, MP3 Player, FM radio with broadcast recording, 3.5mm audio jack and microSD card shot and supports Bluetooth and GPRS internet connectivity.
Nokia C2 will have an SRP of 45 Euros or roughly Php 2,500 before taxes and subsidies upon worldwide release sometime in Q4 of this year. It comes in Magenta, Dark Blue, Grey, Black or White.
Along with three Nokia C1 models, Nokia C2-00 forms the quartet of Nokia's first dual-SIM handsets. These phones target users from developing countries where sharing a phone within the family and using multiple service providers to avail of discounts and save money run rampant.
Of course, the biggest draw of Nokia C2 is its dual-SIM, dual standby capability - meaning both SIM cards can be active on the phone concurrently (vs. C1's one button active SIM card switch feature ~ more about this in a separate C1 post) - but its hardly all it can offer. The phone also has VGA camera, MP3 Player, FM radio with broadcast recording, 3.5mm audio jack and microSD card shot and supports Bluetooth and GPRS internet connectivity.
Nokia C2 will have an SRP of 45 Euros or roughly Php 2,500 before taxes and subsidies upon worldwide release sometime in Q4 of this year. It comes in Magenta, Dark Blue, Grey, Black or White.
Nokia launches bicycle-powered charger, new cheap phones
The world's top mobile phone maker Nokia on Thursday released details of four new cheap phone models and a battery charger powered by the energy generated from riding a bicycle.
The charger, which can be fitted into any Nokia phone with a two millimeter charger jack, uses a dynamo to generate electricity from the movement of the wheels, Nokia said in a statement.
"Bicycles are the most widespread means of transport in many markets around the world, so this is just one more benefit to be gained from an activity people are already doing," Alex Lambeek, Vice President at Nokia, said in the statement.
The price of the charger kit, which also includes a holder for securing the phone to the bicycle, will vary according to market, but in countries like Kenya, where the product was introduced Thursday, it would be around 15 euros (18.43 dollars), a Nokia spokesman told Agence France-Presse.
To begin charging, a cyclist needs to travel around six kilometers per hour (four miles per hour), and while charging times will vary depending on battery model, a 10 minute journey at 10 kmh produces around 28 minutes of talk time or 37 hours of standby time, the spokesman said. The faster you ride, the more battery life you generate.
The charger is set to become available through selected retailers and the company's online store before year-end, Nokia said.
The four new phones it also introduced in Kenya Thursday target developing markets, a key growth area for the Finnish company, and also contain features designed for the needs of people in countries where access to electricity is limited, such as a six-week battery standby time.
Shipments of the phone models, priced at 30-45 euros, will begin by September.
The charger, which can be fitted into any Nokia phone with a two millimeter charger jack, uses a dynamo to generate electricity from the movement of the wheels, Nokia said in a statement.
"Bicycles are the most widespread means of transport in many markets around the world, so this is just one more benefit to be gained from an activity people are already doing," Alex Lambeek, Vice President at Nokia, said in the statement.
The price of the charger kit, which also includes a holder for securing the phone to the bicycle, will vary according to market, but in countries like Kenya, where the product was introduced Thursday, it would be around 15 euros (18.43 dollars), a Nokia spokesman told Agence France-Presse.
To begin charging, a cyclist needs to travel around six kilometers per hour (four miles per hour), and while charging times will vary depending on battery model, a 10 minute journey at 10 kmh produces around 28 minutes of talk time or 37 hours of standby time, the spokesman said. The faster you ride, the more battery life you generate.
The charger is set to become available through selected retailers and the company's online store before year-end, Nokia said.
The four new phones it also introduced in Kenya Thursday target developing markets, a key growth area for the Finnish company, and also contain features designed for the needs of people in countries where access to electricity is limited, such as a six-week battery standby time.
Shipments of the phone models, priced at 30-45 euros, will begin by September.
Cool, new features of Microsoft Office 2010
It’s getting near folks. No more dealing with the beta version. Coming this July, the Microsoft Office 2010 will be available for retail here in the Philippines.
office2010
So what’s new with Office 2010? If you haven’t tried the beta version, here are some of the new/improved cool features from Microsoft’s suite of office productivity tools.
Office Backstage
Backstage with print preview
The new Microsoft Office Backstageâ„¢ view replaces the traditional File menu, helping you quickly get to operations such as save, share, print, and publish with just a few clicks.
screenshotInsert Screenshot
With Office 2010, you can now take full or partial screenshots and quickly use it on your document. It has a built-in screenshot tool where you can instantly insert any active window or you can choose just a screen clipping.
Improved Photo Editing
You can now do more things with Office 2010’s built-in photo editing features. You can easily remove background from photos or cliparts, add effects such as reflection, shadow, etc. No need for Photoshop or gasp, MS Paint, just to edit pictures on your documents.
Sparklines in Excel 2010
sparklines
Sparklines, a new feature in Excel 2010, can create small charts in a single cell to quickly discover patterns in your data. It’s a quick and easy way to highlight important data trends such as seasonal increases or decreases, saving you time.
Video Editing
videoediting
With Office 2010, you can now do basic editing within your PowerPoint presentation. Trim your videos so you don’t have to show the whole clip. Found a video online? Embed it into your presentation to add more drama into it.
New Transitions in PowerPoint
Everybody who worked with PowerPoint would love the new transition effects PowerPoint 2010 has to offer. They look really look smooth and classy, like something you would see on TV. Now your school or sales presentation won’t be as dull as before.
Online Web Apps
Office 2010 features Office Web Apps which allows users to store Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote files online, allowing one to access, view and edit documents from anywhere. You don’t need Office installed in your machine to view or edit files online, all you need is your browser.
Broadcast your presentationbroadcast
One of the key personnel didn’t show up for your PowerPoint presentation? No problem. Just share the presentation with him which he can view via his internet browser. You still need to find a way to share audio though.
Co-authoring
coauthoring
Was there a time that you want to go through a document with another person who’s on a different place? You can do that now with Office 2010. You can share your documents (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) via SharePoint or through online Office web apps with other people who can edit them with you.
Availability
There are three versions of Microsoft Office 2010: Home and Student, Home and Business, and Professional and they will be available this July. No word on exact pricing yet but expect the Home and Student to retail for less than Php5000 ($100).
For those who bought or registered their Office 2007 after March 1, you are entitled to a free upgrade to Office 2010. Beta versions will expire this October.
office2010
So what’s new with Office 2010? If you haven’t tried the beta version, here are some of the new/improved cool features from Microsoft’s suite of office productivity tools.
Office Backstage
Backstage with print preview
The new Microsoft Office Backstageâ„¢ view replaces the traditional File menu, helping you quickly get to operations such as save, share, print, and publish with just a few clicks.
screenshotInsert Screenshot
With Office 2010, you can now take full or partial screenshots and quickly use it on your document. It has a built-in screenshot tool where you can instantly insert any active window or you can choose just a screen clipping.
Improved Photo Editing
You can now do more things with Office 2010’s built-in photo editing features. You can easily remove background from photos or cliparts, add effects such as reflection, shadow, etc. No need for Photoshop or gasp, MS Paint, just to edit pictures on your documents.
Sparklines in Excel 2010
sparklines
Sparklines, a new feature in Excel 2010, can create small charts in a single cell to quickly discover patterns in your data. It’s a quick and easy way to highlight important data trends such as seasonal increases or decreases, saving you time.
Video Editing
videoediting
With Office 2010, you can now do basic editing within your PowerPoint presentation. Trim your videos so you don’t have to show the whole clip. Found a video online? Embed it into your presentation to add more drama into it.
New Transitions in PowerPoint
Everybody who worked with PowerPoint would love the new transition effects PowerPoint 2010 has to offer. They look really look smooth and classy, like something you would see on TV. Now your school or sales presentation won’t be as dull as before.
Online Web Apps
Office 2010 features Office Web Apps which allows users to store Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote files online, allowing one to access, view and edit documents from anywhere. You don’t need Office installed in your machine to view or edit files online, all you need is your browser.
Broadcast your presentationbroadcast
One of the key personnel didn’t show up for your PowerPoint presentation? No problem. Just share the presentation with him which he can view via his internet browser. You still need to find a way to share audio though.
Co-authoring
coauthoring
Was there a time that you want to go through a document with another person who’s on a different place? You can do that now with Office 2010. You can share your documents (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) via SharePoint or through online Office web apps with other people who can edit them with you.
Availability
There are three versions of Microsoft Office 2010: Home and Student, Home and Business, and Professional and they will be available this July. No word on exact pricing yet but expect the Home and Student to retail for less than Php5000 ($100).
For those who bought or registered their Office 2007 after March 1, you are entitled to a free upgrade to Office 2010. Beta versions will expire this October.
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