Galaxy Note 10.1 gets official, brings 'multiscreen' format to tablets

A day after first outing the Galaxy Note 10.1 on the side of a building here in Barcelona, Spain, Samsung has officially announced its latest Android tablet. At first glance you'd be tempted to call the Galaxy Note 10.1 a Galaxy Tab with a stylus (sorry, Samsung, S Pen), and you'd be half right. The GNote 10.1 takes things a big further by throwing in a more traditional desktop experience. Apps can run in a windowed (sorry, Samung, multiscreened) manner, so you can browse the web or watch a video or -- well, whatever, really -- and take notes at the same time, all on a single screen.
Samsung's loaded the Galaxy Note 10.1 with some useful apps, including Adobe Photoshop Touch and Adobe Ideas, plus the usual suite of Android and Samsung apps, as well as the note-taking apps that let you make full use of the included S Pen.
Spec-wise, the Galaxy Note 10.1 is running on a 1.4 GHz dual-core processor and 1GB of RAM, has an 800x1280 resolution and options for 16GB, 32GB or 64GB of storage space. It runs Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and is powered by a 7,000 mAh battery. Cellular options are available, too.
There's no real word on availability just yet. We've got the full presser after the break.

More: Galaxy Note 10.1 forums

Boost your Creativity and Productivity with GALAXY Note 10.1

A new device category, GALAXY Note 10.1 comes with an immersive 10.1’’ screen and S Pen versatility to unlock your creativity and productivity

Barcelona, February 27, 2012 – At Mobile World Congress, Samsung announced the launch of GALAXY Note 10.1, which expands the GALAXY Note experience in creativity, productivity, and learning.

With its large display, GALAXY Note 10.1 provides multi-screen functionality to maximize efficiency in learning, work and creative endeavors. Its multi-screen functionality enables you to do a true multi-tasking, by viewing Internet pages, videos or other applications side by side while writing or sketching your ideas.

GALAXY Note 10.1 features S Note, a unique and efficient tool that lets you combine notes or sketches together with web content, images and other digital media into your own personalized storyboards. It gives you a new way to create stories as S Note provides various ready-to-use templates such as meeting minutes, recipe, cards, diary, magazine and more. Also, hand-drawn geometric shapes can be perfectly digitized by using the Shape Match function, which helps users to create more organized idea sketches and storyboards.

Moreover, by using the S Note’s integrated knowledge search engines, users can quickly search, obtain information, and easily drag & drop the cropped images and content onto S Notes without having to switch between screens.

GALAXY Note 10.1 enables an extraordinary learning experience. Students can watch a lecture live-streamed on video while writing down comments on S Note; research a college essay on the web while taking notes; or even read a full e-textbook while annotating it. Similar to the Shape Match, Formula Match function helps to correct and digitize formulas hand-drawn with S Pen, making the device a more powerful education tool.

Users can fully enjoy PC-like premium photo editing and drawing experiences with Adobe® Photoshop® Touch and Adobe Ideas. Photoshop Touch lets users transform images with core Photoshop features and combine multiple photos into layered images, make popular edits, apply professional effects, and more. Adobe Ideas is an easy-to-master drawing tool that allows users to sketch ideas, choose amazing color themes and import images. Both are specially optimized for S pen and are exclusively pre-loaded on Samsung GALAXY Note 10.1.

“GALAXY Note 10.1 takes productivity on a Note to a whole new level. With a larger, fully utilizable screen and superior performance, it combines the intuitiveness of handwriting with all the versatility of digital content to let users be more productive across all of life’s demanding tasks—whether working, learning, or simply creating their own stories,” said JK Shin, President of IT & Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics. “With GALAXY Note 10.1 we are demonstrating Samsung’s commitment to extend the mobile category and are working with key partners like Adobe to provide extraordinary experiences for users that enable them to be more productive, express themselves creatively and add a touch of fulfillment to their lives.”

Ensuring intuitive multitasking and web browsing, GALAXY Note 10.1 runs on AndroidTM 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and features a 1.4GHz dual-core processor and HSPA+ connectivity. Its real-time video streaming and Full HD video playback add to the device’s content versatility.

GALAXY Note 10.1’s innovative S Pen, the most advanced pen input solution on the market, is completely integrated into the device’s original applications. It provides enhanced pressure sensitivity, superior accuracy and control when editing or writing, providing an analog pen writing experience on a digital device.

The GALAXY Note 10.1 is exhibited at Samsung stand (Hall 8), Mobile World Congress 2012. For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com.

Samsung Galaxy S Wifi 4.2 looks to focus on the gamers

Take a Samsung Galaxy S. Strip out the cell radios, toss in some audio enhancements, and repackage it with a cumbersome name. Salt and pepper to taste, stir, and you've got the Samsung Galaxy S Wifi 4.2.

Samsung's not proffering too much, othern than it's "the best of Android experiences with powerful gaming on the go." Like most other high-end Android smartphones, we'd imagine, though we're having a hard time swallowing a Wifi-only device that's just been announced with Android 2.3 Gingerbread. It's got the aforementioned 4.2-inch display, 512MB of RAM and comes in 8GB or 16GB versions, with a 1 GHz processor and 1500 mAh battery. There's a 2MP rear camrea and VGA front-facing camera thrown in for good measure, and a front-facing speaker as well.

Opera Software announces Opera Mini Next & Opera Mobile 12

Opera Software software has been working with mobile devices for quite some time now so they're not new to the mobile web by any means. They know the web os constantly changing and evolving and adaption of new techniques for use and implementation is vital to their success. With Mobile World Congress now kicked off into full swing they've gone ahead released the final version of Opera Mobile 12 to the Android Market:

• WebGL on Android phones, for all things 3D and web. With WebGL on mobile, it’ll be even easier to make games cross platform and to distribute them. “Opera have contributed significantly to the development of the WebGL specification and now Opera Mobile is playing a leading role in the roll-out of GPU-accelerated WebGL on Android,” said Neil Trevett, Khronos president and vice president of mobile content at NVIDIA.
• Ragnarök, Opera's HTML5 parser support, meaning better web apps and increased compatibility with websites. More HTML5 means more advanced web functionality.
• Support for camera use in the browser.
• More possibilities for customizing the Speed Dial of Opera Mobile, including entering as many Speed Dial entries as you like.

In addition to the availability of Opera Mobile 12, Opera Software has also introduced support for MIPS based devices and Intel architecture. Opera has also introduced Opera Mini Next. A new version of Opera Mini that highlights social networking at the forefront. You can check out their full press release past the break, as well -- grab the download for Opera Mobile 12.

Source: Opera

 Opera Mini Next — Smarter and more social
Also available now: Final version of Opera Mobile 12, with WebGL and record-setting HTML5 scores
Barcelona, Spain — February 27, 2012

Opera Mini is the mobile web browser that turns any feature phone into a smarter device. Now, with Opera Mini Next, a preview version of what’s next for Opera Mini, feature phones get even smarter with advanced social media functions.

The web doesn’t stop evolving, and Opera Mini evolves with it. Introducing the Smart Page, a new feature previewing in the Opera Mini Next series of browsers for feature phones, to be launched on all Opera Mini browsers for feature phones later this year. The Smart Page will take its position alongside Opera’s famous Speed Dial shortcuts and give feature phones smarter access to social networks, the latest news and more.

With social integration of Facebook and Twitter right in the first screen of Opera Mini Next, feature phone users get even closer to the social web of their lives and a smarter online experience.

In smartphone versions of Opera Mini Next, the Smart Page will not make an appearance in this version. For smartphones, we’ve focused on improving the web experience itself. Android users of Opera Mini Next will get a smoother browsing experience, with hardware acceleration and a revamped Speed Dial. The revamped Speed Dial screen, with an unlimited number of Speed Dial shortcuts, debuts in all versions of Opera Mini Next for easy access to all your favorite websites.

“When people think of using social networks on the go, they often imagine a smartphone with the latest apps installed. At Opera, we know that’s not the way a majority of mobile phone owners access their social networks,” says Lars Boilesen, CEO, Opera Software. “That’s why we’ve made ‘ordinary’ phones smarter, by making it easier to use the most popular social networks right in the first screen of Opera Mini for feature phones. Just because you’re on a more basic phone, doesn’t mean you can’t be a active social networker.”

The Opera Mini Next series is for those who like to stay ahead of the pack, and try out the latest features in Opera Mini. All the Opera Mini Next browsers install alongside the regular Opera Mini browser, and are distinguished with a white Opera icon as opposed to the red icon for the stable version.
Mo’ mobile in Opera Mobile 12

Opera Mini Next isn’t alone, entering the stage of the MWC. Launching in its final version today, Opera Mobile 12 will bring more goodies to owners of Android and Symbian smartphones. In the goodie bag for Opera Mobile 12, you’ll find:

• WebGL on Android phones, for all things 3D and web. With WebGL on mobile, it’ll be even easier to make games cross platform and to distribute them. “Opera have contributed significantly to the development of the WebGL specification and now Opera Mobile is playing a leading role in the roll-out of GPU-accelerated WebGL on Android,” said Neil Trevett, Khronos president and vice president of mobile content at NVIDIA.
• Ragnarök, Opera's HTML5 parser support, meaning better web apps and increased compatibility with websites. More HTML5 means more advanced web functionality.
• Support for camera use in the browser.
• More possibilities for customizing the Speed Dial of Opera Mobile, including entering as many Speed Dial entries as you like.

Get the final version of Opera Mobile 12 in the Android Market, or at http://m.opera.com.

If you’re at the Mobile World Congress and would like to experience the Opera Mini Next with Smart Page in person and the Opera Mobile 12, come over to Hall 1, Booth C44 and visit us.
To download the Opera Mini Next browser to your phone right now, visit this link with your mobile phone: http://m.opera.com/next.
About Opera Software ASA

The worldwide World Wide Web — any device, any platform, any bandwidth, absolutely anywhere in the world. Opera Software was founded in 1994, based on the idea that access to the web should be a universal right. 250 million people (and counting) use the Opera web browsers for computers, mobile phones, TVs and other connected devices. Opera also delivers tools, distribution, engagement, monetization and market insights to developers, publishers and brands around the world. We are passionate about breaking down barriers, so everyone can share in the power of the internet. Our vision of one web for all remains at the heart of what we do, because we believe that participation changes everything. Opera Software ASA is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol OPERA. ‘Opera’, ‘Opera Software’, ‘Opera Mini’ and the ‘O’ logo are trademarks of Opera Software ASA. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Learn more about Opera at www.opera.com.

Internationally Compatible NFC from Samsung, NXP, and FeliCa

The Nexus S was the first NFC-capable phone in the U.S., with the Galaxy Nexus following it. This year looks to expand the NFC landscape with manufacturers adding the technology to many new devices, some possibly being announced at MWC this week in Barcelona. This bodes well for the technology in the U.S. except for one thing… it’s incompatible with Japan’s version of NFC, which has been around for years and is used by millions.
Japan’s payment systems use the Osaifu-Keitai standard, based on Sony’s FeliCa RFID chips, but those systems are not compatible with the Type A and Type B standards that the U.S. and other countries are currently implementing. But don’t worry…

Samsung, FeliCa Networks, and NXP Semiconductors are joining forces to roll out internationally-compatible NFC systems that will help make NFC payments truly global. FeliCa will not only lay out the infrastructure, but they will partner with Samsung to help develop a universal controller/secure application module, and also with NXP to help build the global NFC radio.
According to Samsung and NXP’s respective press releases (see source links below), the technology will begin rolling out in 2013. Once a global standard is in play, you’ll be able to tap to spend all your money anywhere in the world. Joy.
Don’t have a phone with an NFC chip? Use Moneto’s NFC kit and voila – instant NFC!

Samsung officially announces the Galaxy Tab 2 in both 7-inch and 10.1-inch variants

Samsung just officially announced the Galaxy Tab 2, which will come in both 7-inch (pictured below)and 10.1-inch (pictured above) versions. We already got a glimpse of the 7-inch version a couple of weeks ago, but weren’t certain about the 10.1-inch version. They will both come in 3G and WiFi versions and have Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich along with TouchWiz on top. As far as thickness goes, the 7-inch will be 10.5mm thick and the 10.1-inch will come in at 9.7mm.
The specs aren’t the greatest, but expect both tabs to be priced very competitively. Speaking of pricing, it wasn’t mentioned in the presser, nor was availability. We will let you know more as soon as we hear anything.
Specs, another image, and full press release after the break.

Product Specs:

• 7” WSVGA (600×1024) PLS TFT or 10.1” WXGA (1280×800) PLS TFT
• 1 GHz Dual-Core Processor
• 1GB of RAM
• 3MP rear camera, VGA front camera
• Choice of 16GB or 32GB of internal memory
• microSD for up to 32GB of extra storage
• 4,000mAh battery
• HSPA+ 21Mbps 850/900/1900/2100
• Bluetooth 3.0 and WiFi
• 193.7 x 122.4 x 10.5 mm, 345g (7-inch) / 256.6 x 175.3 x 9.7 mm , 588g (10.1-inch)
• Android 4.0(Ice Cream Sandwich)

Full press release after the break:
Samsung’s new GALAXY Tab 2 series offers optimal multimedia experiences in life
Samsung introduces its first line-up of tablets for 2012 with the launch of the GALAXY Tab 2 series, expanding the choice of tablets to customers. The GALAXY Tab 2 series includes a 7” version and a 10.1” version. Starting from UK, the GALAXY Tab 2 series will be launched in global market from March.
The GALAXY Tab 2 series is available in 3G and WiFi versions, as well as in 7” and 10.1” variants. Light and portable, the GALAXY Tab 2 (7.0) is the ideal personal on-the-go device; while the larger GALAXY Tab 2 (10.1) is well-suited for home and family use.
The GALAXY Tab 2 series is exhibited at Samsung stand (Hall 8), Mobile World Congress 2012. For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com.
Samsung GALAXY Tab 2 (7.0) Product Specifications

Network	HSPA+ 21Mbps 850/900/1900/2100
Processor	1 GHz Dual-Core Processor
Display	7” WSVGA(600×1024) PLS TFT
OS	Android 4.0(Ice Cream Sandwich)
Camera	Main(Rear): 3 Megapixel CameraSub(Front): VGA for Video Call
Video	Codec: MPEG4, H.263, H.264, VC-1, DivX, WMV7, WMV8, WMV9, VP8Format: 3GP, ASF, AVI, MP4, WMV, FLV, MKV, WebMPlayback/ Recording: Full HD@30fps, HD@30fps
Audio	Codec: MP3, AAC, AC-3, AMR, FLAC, MID, WMA, WAV, OGGMusic Player with SoundAlive3.5mm Ear Jack
Value-added Features & Services	Samsung TouchWiz/ Samsung L!ve Panel
	Samsung Apps
	Samsung Hub*- Readers Hub/ Music Hub/ Game Hub/ Video Hub
	Samsung Hub Widget*- Music Hub/ Game Hub/ Video Hub
	Samsung S Suggest* (App recommendation service)
	Samsung ChatON mobile communication service
	Samsung AllShare Play*
	Samsung Kies / Samsung Kies air
	GoogleTM Mobile Services- Android Market™, Gmail™, YouTube™, Google Maps™,Syncing with Google Calendar™, Google Search, Google +
	Polaris document editor
	A-GPS, Glonass
Connectivity	Bluetooth technology v 3.0USB 2.0 HostWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct
Sensor	Accelerometer, Digital compass, LightProximity(* Available on 3G version only)
Memory	8/16/32GB User memory + 1GB (RAM)microSD (up to 32GB)
Dimension	193.7 x 122.4 x 10.5 mm, 345g
Battery	Standard battery, Li-ion 4,000mAh

* Availability and launching time of the services may differ by region.
* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.


Samsung GALAXY Tab 2 (10.1) Product Specifications

Network	HSPA+ 21Mbps  850/900/1900/2100
Processor	1 GHz Dual-Core Processor
Display	10.1” WXGA(1280×800) PLS TFT
OS	Android 4.0(Ice Cream Sandwich)
Camera	Main(Rear): 3 Megapixel CameraSub(Front): VGA for Video Call
Video	Codec: MPEG4, H.264. H.263, VC-1, DivX, WMV7, WMV8, WMV9, VP8 Format: 3GP, ASF, AVI, MP4, WMV, FLV, MKV, WebMPlayback/ Recording: Full HD@30fps, HD@30fps
Audio	Codec: MP3, AAC, AC-3, AMR, FLAC, MID, WMA, WAV, OGGMusic Player with SoundAlive3.5mm Ear Jack
Value-added Features & Services	Samsung TouchWiz / Samsung L!ve Panel
	Samsung Apps
	Samsung Hub- Readers Hub/ Music Hub/ Game Hub/ Video Hub
	Samsung Hub Widget*- Music Hub/ Game Hub/ Video Hub
	Samsung S Suggest* (App recommendation service)
	Samsung ChatON mobile communication service
	Samsung AllShare Play
	Samsung Kies / Samsung Kies air
	GoogleTM Mobile Services- Android Market™, Gmail™, YouTube™, Google Maps™,Syncing with Google Calendar™, Google Search, Google +
	Polaris document editor
	A-GPS, Glonass
Connectivity	Bluetooth technology v 3.0USB 2.0 HostWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct
Sensor	Accelerometer, Digital compass, Light
Memory	16/32GB User memory + 1GB (RAM)microSD (up to 32GB)
Dimension	256.6 x 175.3 x 9.7 mm , 588g
Battery	Standard battery, Li-ion 7,000 mAh

* Availability and launching time of the services may differ by region.
* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Samsung announces the Galaxy Beam with built-in 15 lumens projector for beaming your photos and videos onto walls

Hot off the heels off the announcement of the Galaxy Tab 2, Samsung just announced the Galaxy Beam, which is a projector smartphone. This might actually be one of the coolest new devices for Mobile World Congress. Interestingly enough, Samsung showed this concept almost 2-years ago. With the Galaxy Beam, you will will able to share photos and videos on your device by beaming them directly onto walls, ceilings, or other flat surfaces. With the 15 lumens projector you can beam up to 50-inches wide, and you can share outdoors as well.
Just think of the possibilities as you will be able to share pictures from your vacation at your next family gathering or how about students studying together in their dorm room? The possibilities are endless.
Unfortunately this will launch with Android 2.3 Gingerbread which is an obvious disappointment. Pricing and availability weren’t mentioned, but we will be sure to let you know as soon as we hear more.
Full specs, another image, and presser after the break

Full specs:

• 4-inch 480×800 (WVGA) TFT display
• 1.0GHz Dual-Core Processor
• 1GB of RAM
• 5MP rear camera AF + 1.3MP front facing / Flash
• 8GB of internal memory
• MicroSD for up to 32GB of extra storage
• 5MP rear camera AF + 1.3MP / Flash
• Bluetooth 3.0 and WiFi
• 64.2 x 124 x 12.5mm, 145.3 g
• HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps 850/900/1900/2100 EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900
• Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)
• 2000 mAh battery

Full press release:
Share the Fun with Samsung GALAXY Beam
Samsung’s projector smartphone offers unforgettable shared experience for playing multimedia content anytime, anywhere
Barcelona – February 26, 2012 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today introduced Samsung GALAXY Beam, the projector smartphone that allows users to display and share multimedia content anywhere on a large luminous projector screen.
GALAXY Beam lets users spontaneously share photos, videos or other digital media with family or friends by beaming content stored on the device directly onto walls, ceilings or improvised flat surfaces, so that everyone can share the fun without the need to huddle around smartphone or pad-sized screens. GALAXY Beam’s ultra-bright 15 lumens projector allows users to freely share life’s memorable moments instantly and in crisp clarity, even in outdoor environments.
“GALAXY Beam provides mobile freedom, enabling a unique shared experience around digital content for everyone—anywhere and instantly—from a smartphone as slim and portable as any on the market,” said JK Shin, President of IT & Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics.
“GALAXY Beam is a device borne out of Samsung’s insight and innovation, demonstrating Samsung’s commitment to providing extraordinary experiences for consumers with products that let them express and fulfill themselves.”
Video clips, maps, business information, games – a whole range of multimedia content can be beamed instantly by GALAXY Beam on a crisp, high-definition projection up to 50’’ wide. The device features a projector-dedicated application which makes it easy to select content and activate projection in a few simple steps.
Add a dose of ambience or entertainment to a friends’ gathering by transforming any household room or outdoor deck into an instant mini home-theater, projecting full-screen video clips on a ceiling or wall for common sharing, at the touch of a button. Or capture your favorite holiday moments using the GALAXY Beam’s 5MP camera, then display a full photo slideshow to family members on a dining room wall while playing accompanying music straight from the device, so that everyone shares the experience.
For young users who depend on constant, immediate socializing of digital content and entertainment, GALAXY Beam introduces a new way of sharing. It becomes much more than a phone—a handy digital tool, deployable anywhere, which can add visual entertainment to a simple street gathering, set the mood for a small party, or simply turn life’s moments into something personally and immediately sharable. With GALAXY Beam, a birthday or anniversary party can be enlivened in seconds by sharing YouTube or Hulu music videos straight onto a ceiling or door. Likewise, students can collectively share videos or study-work in any dormitory room or student lounge, turning group study into a whole new interactive experience right from a desk table or from the palm of their hands. GALAXY Beam is also ideal for action-packed interactive gaming: Users can upload their own games or choose from over 1,000 games available via Game Hub, Samsung’s dedicated virtual gaming store, then project games to co-players or observers to turn gaming into an unbeatably interactive, shared experience. Additionally, GALAXY Beam is convenient tool for mid-sized business workers. An estate agent can beam images of candidate properties to customers as they tour them; or an architect can display draft concepts or designs to co-workers on the spot at a building site or public location.
Despite featuring a full built-in projector, the GALAXY Beam does not compromise on style or portability, measuring just 12.5mm thick and featuring an elegant, ergonomic design. It runs on Android 2.3 Gingerbread which is powered by an impressive 1.0GHz dual-core processor, ensuring great versatility and a highly responsive user interface. An impressive 8GB of internal memory allows ample multimedia storage without compromises, and a powerful 2000 mAh battery ensures greater display power and content freedom.
The GALAXY Beam is exhibited at Samsung stand (Hall 8), Mobile World Congress 2012. For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com.
Samsung GALAXY Beam Product Specifications

Network	HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps 850/900/1900/2100EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900
OS	Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)
Display	4.0” 480×800 (WVGA) TFT
Processor	1.0GHz Dual-Core Processor
Camera	5MP AF + 1.3MP / Flash
Video	MPEG4, H.263, H.264, WMV, DivXRecording/Playback: 720p@30fps
Audio	MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, WMA
Connectivity	BT 3.0+HS, 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz, MicroUSB, USB 2.0, 3.5mm Ear Jack
PC Applications	Samsung Kies 2.0
Memory	6GB RAM + 8GB Internal Memory, MicroSD slot (up to 32GB)
Dimension	64.2 x 124 x 12.5mm, 145.3 g
Battery	2000 mAh

* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 Appears On Barcelona Billboard

The rumor mill need no longer churn, the 10.1 is here and will be debuted at Mobile World Congress. It’s only a matter of time. This billboard was setup sometime either over night or early this morning at  Plaça de Catalunya in Barcelona. 
What does the picture tell us?

• Well, it’s obviously 10.1″
• Like the smaller (or perhaps, less huge) Note, the 10.1 also has the special S-Pen. However, it looks different than the one pictured with the original Note.
• The photo is a bit too blurry to discern whether its running Honeycomb or Ice Cream Sandwich, but it’s hard to imagine they would unveil it without the latter.
• Those brown and gold accents don’t lie. TouchWiz is most definitely on board.

Nothing to share yet in terms of specifications, but the official announcement can’t be long now. Stay tuned.

Samsung Galaxy Beam eyes-on

A press release doesn’t really do justice to a device like the Samsung Galaxy Beam – you’ve got to see it with your won eyes to do it justice. And while we can’t personally fly you to Barcelona for the debut of Samsung’s Android smartphone-pico projector mash up, we can do the next best thing and give you some live impressions of the device. Samsung was nice enough to show off the Galaxy Beam – under some pretty ideal conditions, of course – and we were on-hand to check it out.

First of all, the Galaxy Beam doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to its integrated projector – the little phone’s add-on is surprisingly bright and feature-packed. 15 lumens isn’t anywhere near what you’d get with a dedicated machine, of course, but it’s more than impressive from a device that’s not much bigger than a standard smartphone. Point the Beam towards a flat surface – preferably one that’s dark and neutrally colored – and you get a display that’s big at up to 50 inches, but not overly sharp at 640×480 pixels. A manual adjustment ring helps to quickly focus the image.

Samsung claims that the lamp on the inside will last a full 20,000 hours, i.e., much longer than the two-year life of your contract. But as cool a feature as the projector is, you’ll have to settle for a decidedly mid-range phone elsewhere. 4.0-inch LCD screen, Gingerbread, 1Ghz dual-core processor and a yellow-on-black color scheme – all are decidedly under the high standards of most Android enthusiasts. On the plus side, the rubberized backing should keep the projector safe ,and the 2000mAh battery should keep it running for few hours at least.

Though there’s no mention of a time or date, Samsung assures us it’ll be ready with a bevvy of accessories for the Galaxy Beam, most notably a portable stand. They also told us that an upgrade to Ice Cream Sandwich is already in the works. Remember to check our Mobile World Congress portal for the skinny on all the new hardware.

LG rumored to manufacture next Nexus device

Well this is certainly a change of pace, isn’t it? We’ve seen Google choose two manufacturers to produce products for their ‘Nexus’ line thus far: HTC and Samsung. Now, the latest rumor suggests LG could be next in line for the job. For those of you that don’t know, the ‘Nexus’ line of devices are updated to the latest version of Android before all others, and have Google on their side for superb technical support. Samsung has had the last two Nexus devices, so why has Google decided to mix it up?


If anything, you’d think Motorola would be next in line; especially since Google finally closed out the company’s buyout. LG hasn’t really made quite the footprint HTC or Samsung have left in the Android timeline yet, so it’s hard to fathom. However, the LG Spectrum was quite an eye-opener when it came to build quality and an amazingly pixel-rich display. They’re definitely on the right track, and if they continue to improve their line of devices in a way that catches the public’s eye, anything is possible.
Yet, the Galaxy S III is just around the corner, and HTC just dropped the One X – a phone to rule them all. Stealing the thunder from either of these companies will be difficult. But in the end, Google will be the sole deciding factor on the matter. Sure, they have their best interests in mind, but they also let us know they want us to view the ‘Nexus’ line as lead by Google, and not a “preferred” manufacture. We’ll find out eventually, but since the Samsung Galaxy Nexus was released only a couple months ago, it should be some time before another Nexus phone should hit the market. Now, a Nexus tablet is a different story altogether.

Hands on with the Samsung Galaxy Beam from Mobile World Congress [Video]

Earlier today Samsung announced the Galaxy Beam, a smartphone with a 15 lumens projector that can project videos and pictures on any surface up to 50 inches in size. We’ve already seen some really cool stuff at this year’s Mobile World Congress, but this might be the coolest so far.
On the downside, because of the projector it comes in at a whopping 12.5mm thick and it has Android 2.3 Gingerbread out of the box. Checkout Samsung’s first hands-on video and let us know what you think. Are you looking forward to a projector on your next smartphone?

Verizon Offering Free Upgrade to ‘Loyal’ Customers, Includes Galaxy Nexus or Droid Razr

If you’ve been a ‘loyal’ Verizon customer for a while now and you are ready for an upgrade, you may want to pay attention and check you inbox regularly. According to some loyal customers, they have received an email containing details on how to get a free phone. Usually when you get a free phone it’s nothing to write home about, but this time for some reason Verizon is feeling generous. The three free phones being offered are the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, the Motorola Droid Razr and the Samsung Stratosphere. Not a bad selection. In order to snag one of these devices you are obviously going to have to sign a two-year contract, but that should’t deter you from getting a new Galaxy Nexus. If you have been with Big Red for a while, I’d start looking for the email. Has anyone already received one?

Samsung Officially Announces the Galaxy Note 10.1

We already knew we were going to see the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 after we saw the huge billboard in Barcelona yesterday, but now we have the official announcement and device specs. Not to be confused with the Galaxy Tab 2, the Galaxy Note 10.1 provides more of a desktop experience and allows for ‘multiscreen’ use, having more than one app open at the same time. That means you can be watching a video or reading an email all the while simultaneously taking notes or browsing the web. The Galaxy Note 10.1 differs from the Galaxy Tab in that it comes with an included  S Pen (specialized stylus), as seen with the the smaller Galaxy Note smartphone.
The 10.1 Note sports a 1.4GHz dual-core processor, has 1GB of RAM, runs ICS with the Touchwiz overlay, a 3MP rear camera and a 2MP front shooter. The device comes equipped HSPA+ connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, GPS and Glonass features. The display measures 10.1-inches diagonally, has a resolution of 1280 x 800, and looks to be flanked by front facing speakers on the left and right sides. There will be 32 and 64GB variations, both of which come complete with a microSD card slot for up to an additional 32GB of storage.
Some of the software included with the 10-inch Note are Adobe Photoshop Touch, Adobe Ideas, S-Note, Shape Match and Formula Match (for digitizing images and mathematical formulae), along with the usual Android suspects. Pricing and availability are still unknown at this time but we will let you know as soon as we hear more. Jump past the break for the full press release.

Boost your Creativity and Productivity with GALAXY Note 10.1
A new device category, GALAXY Note 10.1 comes with an immersive 10.1” screen and
S Pen versatility to unlock your creativity and productivity
Barcelona, February 27, 2012 – At Mobile World Congress, Samsung announced the launch of GALAXY Note 10.1, which expands the GALAXY Note experience in creativity, productivity, and learning.
With its large display, GALAXY Note 10.1 provides multi-screen functionality to maximize efficiency in learning, work and creative endeavors. Its multi-screen functionality enables you to do a true multi-tasking, by viewing Internet pages, videos or other applications side by side while writing or sketching your ideas.
GALAXY Note 10.1 features S Note, a unique and efficient tool that lets you combine notes or sketches together with web content, images and other digital media into your own personalized storyboards. It gives you a new way to create stories as S Note provides various ready-to-use templates such as meeting minutes, recipe, cards, diary, magazine and more. Also, hand-drawn geometric shapes can be perfectly digitized by using the Shape Match function, which helps users to create more organized idea sketches and storyboards.
Moreover, by using the S Note’s integrated knowledge search engines, users can quickly search, obtain information, and easily drag & drop the cropped images and content onto S Notes without having to switch between screens.
GALAXY Note 10.1 enables an extraordinary learning experience. Students can watch a lecture live-streamed on video while writing down comments on S Note; research a college essay on the web while taking notes; or even read a full e-textbook while annotating it. Similar to the Shape Match, Formula Match function helps to correct and digitize formulas hand-drawn with S Pen, making the device a more powerful education tool.
Users can fully enjoy PC-like premium photo editing and drawing experiences with Adobe® Photoshop® Touch and Adobe Ideas. Photoshop Touch lets users transform images with core Photoshop features and combine multiple photos into layered images, make popular edits, apply professional effects, and more. Adobe Ideas is an easy-to-master drawing tool that allows users to sketch ideas, choose amazing color themes and import images. Both are specially optimized for S pen and are exclusively pre-loaded on Samsung GALAXY Note 10.1.
“GALAXY Note 10.1 takes productivity on a Note to a whole new level. With a larger, fully utilizable screen and superior performance, it combines the intuitiveness of handwriting with all the versatility of digital content to let users be more productive across all of life’s demanding tasks-whether working, learning, or simply creating their own stories,” said JK Shin, President of IT & Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics. “With GALAXY Note 10.1 we are demonstrating Samsung’s commitment to extend the mobile category and are working with key partners like Adobe to provide extraordinary experiences for users that enable them to be more productive, express themselves creatively and add a touch of fulfillment to their lives.”
Ensuring intuitive multitasking and web browsing, GALAXY Note 10.1 runs on AndroidTM 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and features a 1.4GHz dual-core processor and HSPA+ connectivity. Its real-time video streaming and Full HD video playback add to the device’s content versatility.
GALAXY Note 10.1′s innovative S Pen, the most advanced pen input solution on the market, is completely integrated into the device’s original applications. It provides enhanced pressure sensitivity, superior accuracy and control when editing or writing, providing an analog pen writing experience on a digital device.
The GALAXY Note 10.1 is exhibited at Samsung stand (Hall 8), Mobile World Congress 2012. For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com.

Samsung Announces Galaxy S WiFi 4.2 For Gamers

As Mobile World Congress officially kicks off, Samsung is showing off some unique devices. One interesting, or perhaps confusing, device is the newly announced Samsung Galaxy S WiFi 4.2. Similar to their Samsung Galaxy S WiFi from last year, this device comes without phone radios, but also adds an improved sound system called SoundAlive, which delivers “great sound either through a front stereo speaker or headphones“. The rest of the specs seem pretty ho-hum.

• Android 2.3 Gingerbread (really?)
• 4.2-inch display
• 8.9 mm thick
• 512MB of RAM
• 8GB or 16GB versions
• 1 GHz processor
• 1500 mAh battery
• 2MP rear camrea
• VGA front-facing camera
• Gyroscope sensor

It will come pre-installed with EA’s Need For Speed Hot Pursuit, which is what makes it a gaming device I suppose. I don’t know. After the Galaxy Note 10.1 announcement, this just seems rather dull in my opinion. Maybe if the price is right it could make a splash since it’s still a decent mid-level device. But when I hear “gaming” attached to the marketing of a device, I expect specs that are at the very high end of the spectrum, not a list that looks like last year’s models.
Full press release after the break.

Game On With Samsung GALAXY S WiFi 4.2
February 27, 2012
Samsung introduces GALAXY S WiFi 4.2, the best of Android experiences with powerful gaming on the go. This experience is further enhanced with the device’s superior SoundAlive audio system, offering great sound either through a front stereo speaker or headphones. A gyroscope sensor enables the user to control the device by moving it, providing truly engaging and intuitive gaming.
The GALAXY S WiFi 4.2 is exhibited at Samsung stand (Hall 8), Mobile World Congress 2012. For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com.
Samsung GALAXY S WiFi 4.2 Product Specifications

Processor	1 GHz Processor
Display	4.2” WVGA(480×800) IPS TFT
OS	Android 2.3(Gingerbread)
Camera	Main(Rear): 2 Megapixel Camera Sub(Front): VGA for Video Call
Video	Codec: MPEG4, H.263, H.264, VC-1, DivX, WMV7, WMV8, WMV9 Format: 3GP, ASF, AVI, MP4, WMV, FLV, MKV Playback/ Recording: HD@30fps, VGA@30fps
Audio	Codec: MP3, AAC, AC-3, AMR, FLAC, WMA, WAV, OGG Music Player with SoundAlive Front Stereo Speaker 3.5mm Ear Jack
Value-added Features & Services	Premium EA Games preloaded - Need For Speed Hot Pursuit
	Samsung Apps
	Samsung Hub - Social Hub - Readers Hub*/ Music Hub*/ Game Hub* (Downloadable via Samsung Apps)
	Samsung ChatON mobile communication service
	Samsung Kies / Samsung Kies air
	Samsung AllShare
	Samsung SmartView: Smart TV remote control application
	GoogleTM Mobile Services - Android Market™, Gmail™, YouTube™, Google Maps™, Syncing with Google Calendar™, Google Search, Google +
	Bluetooth Handsfree
Connectivity	Bluetooth technology v 3.0 USB 2.0 Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Sensor	Gyroscope , Accelerometer, Digital compass
Memory	8/16GB User memory + 512MB (RAM) microSD (up to 32GB)
Dimension	124.1 x66.1 x 8.9 mm, 118g
Battery	Standard battery, Li-ion 1,500mAh

* Availability and launching time of the services may differ by region.
* All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.