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Saturday, May 19, 2012

Samsung Galaxy SIII prebooking starts in India
For all those eagerly waiting for Samsung's Galaxy SIII, here's good news: Samsung India has starting taking pre-orders for smartphone on its e-store.

For all those eagerly waiting for Samsung's Galaxy SIII, here's good news: Samsung India has starting taking pre-orders for smartphoneon its e-store.

Surprisingly, though the company has started booking for Samsung Galaxy SIII, it has still not revealed the smartphone's pricing. Samsung is asking consumers to pay a fixed sum of Rs 2,000 to get in the queue for the device. The listing on Samsung India's e-store also promises all consumers an assured gift with every pre-order.

Incidentally, the terms and conditions don't offer a cancellation option if you change your mind. According to terms and conditions on the side, "At the time of launch, an email will be exclusively sent to customers who have pre-booked their Galaxy S III on the eStore, informing them of the availability of the Galaxy S III."

Samsung announced Galaxy SIII at a press event in London recently. The phone has a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED screen with a resolution of 720P, 1GB RAM, 16/32GB storage with a slot for microSD card, 8MP camera with burst mode, zero shutter lag and backlit sensor, 2,100mAh battery, Wi-Fi, 3G and Bluetooth. The phone weighs 133 grams and has a thickness of 8.6mm.

Galaxy S3 runs on Ice Cream Sandwich, the latest version of Android operating software. However, the default user interface of the OS is TouchWiz Nature UX, a custom skin prepared by Samsung.

Media reports suggests Samsung Galaxy SIII to launch in June in India at a price tag of Rs 38,000 (MRP).

Karbonn launches dual-SIM phone KT-21 Express

Karbonn launches dual-SIM phone KT-21 Express
Karbonn KT-21 Express

NEW DELHI: Karbonn Mobiles on Friday launched its latest phone dual-SIM phoneKarbonn KT-21 Express with touch and type feature. Karbonn KT-21 boasts of a 7.1cm TFT capacitive screen and a 3.2 megapixel camera with flash.

The device has 16GB memory and is powered by a 1000 mAh Li-ion battery. For connectivity the phone supports PC Sync, Bluetooth, GPRS, WAP, EDGE and also supports Push Mail service.

The other features include 3.5mm audio jack, Proximity and Motion Sensor, Mobile Tracker, dual torch. The phone also has Karbonn Instant Messenger ( KIM), a PIN based real time messaging application which offers its users easier chatting option and NexgTV which allows users to watch 50+ Live TV Channels on the phone.

The phone is priced at Rs 4,490.

Huawei to launch MediaPad tablet soon


Huawei to launch MediaPad tablet soon
Huawei Technologies Co, China’s largest maker of phone equipment, said its MediaPad tablet computers are being tested by Tribune as news readers.


Huawei Technologies Co, China's largest maker of phone equipment, said its MediaPad tablet computers are being tested by Tribune as news readers.


The Chicago Tribune and Los Angeles Times are conducting trials of the tablets through the end of this month, and the devices may be rolled out nationwide once those tests are complete, said James Jiang, executive vice president of product solutions at Huawei's device business in the US.


Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei is diversifying the company into consumer mobile devices to expand business in the US, where lawmakers have opposed sales of its phone-network equipment because of his Chinese military background. Tribune Chief Executive Officer Eddy Hartenstein is seeking to add a new business to stem losses from declining newspaper circulation and increased printing costs.


"We are always looking for opportunities to provide companies with products and solutions that will enhance the level of service that they provide to their customers," Jiang said in an e-mail. "In this case, it is about providing the Tribune's readers with a platform that allows them to access news and other content."


The Chicago-based Tribune Co, which also owns radio and TV stations, filed for bankruptcy in 2008, one year after a leveraged buyout led by real-estate billionaire Sam Zell. Tribune, valued earlier this year by the company at more than $7 billion, owes creditors about $13 billion. The company said May 15 it will stop publishing LA, Los Angeles Times Magazine, on June 3.


Gary Weitman, a Tribune spokesman, declined to comment.


Huawei unveiled the MediaPad tablet, which runs Google's Android operating system, last year as profit was cut by half. Huawei plans to boost total revenue as much as 20 per cent this year, aided by the push into the consumer market, Controller CT Johnson said last month.


Wednesday, May 2, 2012

BlackBerry-maker RIM's troubles in India

BlackBerry-maker RIM's troubles in India

Don't let the kid on the next seat in the train, furiously typing away on his or her BlackBerry fool you. Despite the fact that Indian youth have bonded over BBM, the performance of the parent RIM and maybe even the launch of its latest product in India have revealed a number of holes in the phone maker's strategy. BE asks what's troubling BlackBerry, boys?

Minutes before Research In Motion, the makers of BlackBerry, made an announcement at a press conference in Delhi, there was a definite vibe of anticipation. Tech hacks idly wondered just what was going to be unveiled, given that BlackBerry has a fairly conservative release schedule.

The more optimistic were holding out for a glimpse of BlackBerry's OS 10 rumoured among the brand's faithful to be a potential Android-slaying, iOS-wrecking killer operating system; one that would propel BlackBerry back to the top of its game. But instead, BlackBerry amid much fanfare and celebrity preening unveiled the Curve 9220.

At the Q&A and after, the questions flew thick and fast: why only a 2MP camera? Why no 3G? And why such a stiff price tag for a phone that lacked these two features?

The device was launched at Rs 10,990; inexpensive for brand BlackBerry, but a tad pricey compared to other mobiles, even smartphones if one considers budget Android models fromSamsung, LG, Spice and Lava among others.

The Curve offered unique features like a quick access BB messenger button and, critically, long battery life, something of a rarity in the smartphone category.

FM radio, a feature that's bog standard even for phones that are sold at a tenth of the cost, made its way to Blackberry Curve. But to an audience weaned on revolution, having to settle for evolution was a disappointment. It was a dangerous reaction for any company to deal with; especially a tech firm that's been gradually losing its reputation as a pioneer.

As one of the first smartphones, BlackBerry had a dream run starting with the enterprise segment and slowly making inroads into the consumer space. 'Sent from my BlackBerry' soon became a ubiquitous signature; first for emails from globetrotting CEOs and later among the rank and file as well. Except of late, it has taken a beating globally, trounced by the iPhone on the one hand and a gamut of Android powered devices on the other.

Its most recent financial results reveal a loss of $125 million. And shipments of 11.1 million, down 21% from the previous quarter. Reviews for its Torch series have been unenthusiastic and the game changing OS10 is expected to show only in the latter half of 2012. Says an industry insider, "They decided to step back and relax and that cost them. The engine has stopped innovating for some time."

In some countries like India though, BlackBerry still counts among the contenders. According to Frost & Sullivan, it's at the third place in the Indian smartphone market with a share of 15%, trailing behind Nokia's 35% and Samsung's 40%. It's attracted a strong app developer network of 30,000 in India up from 4000 two years ago, according to a company source.

More importantly, for a product that's worldwide reputation veers towards the stodgy, it has a strong traction with the youth. Observes Abhishek Chauhan, senior consultant, ICT Practice, Frost & Sullivan, South Asia & Middle East, "In India, they've been taking segmentation seriously, targeting the youth. I don't feel India will be a danger space for them if they launch affordable devices and data plans for their consumers here."

The youth connect has been built in part on the back of initiatives like the BlackBerry Boys campaign; a co-branded effort with Vodafone, currently in its second year. On the distribution front too, BlackBerry was quick to realise there was a world beyond the metros. It is currently present across 250 cities and according to RIM India's managing director, Sunil Dutt it continues to expand.

However, BlackBerry India has not remained unaffected by the pressures facing its parent. The pricing strategy has changed: the jury is out on just why this is happening and what it will lead to. Of late, there have been price cuts across its portfolio.

10 strangest job titles on LinkedIn


10 strangest job titles on LinkedIn



Have you ever shared an office with a 'Digital Overlord'? Or crunched numbers with an 'Accounting Ninja'? If not, there's hope yet, because the recent movement towards more unorthodox job titles looks set to continue, according to UK-based specialist recruitment consultancy IntaPeople.


Having scoured thousands of online profiles,IntaPeople has revealed what it believes to be the ten most peculiar job titles being used by professionals on LinkedIn.


The top ten: * Digital Overlord * Creator of Happiness * Retail Jedi * Wizard of Light Bulb Moments * Dream Alchemist * Chief Chatter * Change Magician * Accounting Ninja * Chief Biscuit Dunker * Direct Mail Demi-God


Stephen Riley, director at IntaPeople, commented, "We are seeing more and more of these kind of job titles cropping up on online profiles, CVs and business cards. Many feel that casting away conventional titles will help them broadcast their individuality and give them a real edge over their competitors.


"It is a trend that is almost certainly linked with the explosion of social media. Social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter have shown that there is real value in bringing more personality to business, and creative job titles offer individuals another way of doing this.


"It can be a risky tactic, though. Companies are increasingly using sites like LinkedIn to research prospective employees and suppliers. If it seems like you are not taking your job seriously enough, you could well miss out on some great business opportunities. Calling yourself a 'Wizard' or a 'Jedi' could be just a step too far for some."


Friday, April 6, 2012

Sony Xperia Pro : An Android Smartphone


If you are an Android fan and love to type text a lot and are addicted to QWERTY keyboards then you must strongly consider this new product from Sony : The Xperia Pro. It also has smart keyboard features and drag type feature which is becoming popular a lot. The real power of this phone comes from the Android Gingerbread , with the power of thousands of apps available in the Android Market.
With a sony camera of 8.1 Megapixel which can challenge any phone in terms of photo and video quality, this phone is perfect for all those who love to click photos from mobile phones. The camera has features like, 3D panaroma, video stabilizer, image stabilizer, HD video recording, 16x digital zoom and much more.
Xperia Pro has an internal storage of 1GB and a SDcard slot with support upto 32GB. Sony Xperia Pro is priced in the Indian market around Rs.24000/- and is one of the best Android powered smartphone. The screen is 3.7″ 854 X 480 pixels and is just 142 gms in weight.
Conclusion:
If you are planning an Android smartphone and need a phone with ease of typing and do lot of texting and emailing from your mobile along with need a phone which takes crystal clear photos, then Sony Xperia Pro is the best choice for you.







Android Ice Cream Sandwich : What’s new in Android 4?



With Android 4 code named as Ice Cream Sandwich and all set to be released during thanksgiving  i.e. around November 24th 2011, speculation is very rife about what’s new in the Android 4?
Some of the features to be included are:
Common OS: The Android Ice Cream Sandwich would be capable of running across various devices including smartphone, tablets and a range of devices unlike the previous Android OS.
Intelligent Camera sensors: Face recognition and intelligent camera sensors will guide in video conferencing and online meetings with multiple people as the camera will follow the talking face.
Improvement in Speed and Performance: As is always with all the Android releases, this release too will improve on its  older version in terms of speed and performance. It will also carry a lot of friendly UI adopted in the Honeycomb with further improvement.
Apart from these preliminary features talked about, a lot of work is still in progress to fine tune Android Ice Cream Sandwich as a new generation Android Release. So keep your fingers crossed for an Ice Cream treat around this Christmas!







Thursday, April 5, 2012

Micromax launches Android 4.0 tablet Funbook @ Rs 6,499

Micromax launches Android 4.0 tablet Funbook @ Rs 6,499
Micromax has launched Funbook, an Android 4.0 powered tablet today.
It seems to be raining tablets. Just a day after HCL Infosystems launched two Android 4.0 or Android Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) based tablets, here comes another Android 4.0-powered tablet. Indian manufacturer Micromaxhas launched Funbook, an Android 4.0 powered tablet today.

Running on a 1.2GHz processor, the tablet is priced at Rs 6,499. Micromax Funbook features 7-inch capacitive display, 512MB of RAM, and 4GB internal storage. There's 2,800 mAh battery and and 0.3 megapixel front facing camera.

The tablet supports 3G connectivity via USB dongle and comes bundled with a Tata Photon EVDO datacard.

Key specifications:

* Android 4.0
* 7-inch capacitive display with 800x480p resolution
* Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
* 512MB RAM
* Mini-HDMI
* 1.2GHz Cortex-A8 single core processor

HCL Infosystems this week unveiled two tablet computers: HCL ME U1 and HCL MyEdu Tab. While HCL ME U1 has been introduced with a price of Rs 7,999, the HCL MyEdu Tab - K12 Version is priced at Rs 11,499.

The U1 tablet is powered with the latest Android Ice Cream Sandwich Operating Software (OS). It has a 7 inch 800X480 pixel screen and a 1Ghz processor.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Why Google’s Free Website Offer Will Fail?

Yes, you heard it right. In a bid to increase websites in India, Google came up withhttp://www.indiagetonline.in , where people can just login and get a free domain + one year hosting (from hostgator). What surprises me though is the inclusion of Federation of Indian Micro and Small & Medium Enterprises or the FISME.
Why Googles Free Website Offer Will Fail?
So where is the catch? Why free?
- Domain and hosting is free only for a year and later on you will have to pay hosting fees to hostgator or shift your hosting to any other host. Even if you decide to transfer the domain elsewhere, it can be done only after 60 days. Also a valid PAN card number is required per free domain. The important part is – No disclosure is made about the domain and hosting charges from second year. The lowest plan at hostgator starts at $5.56 which would turn to be around Rs.3300/- per year.
Now – Why Google’s free website offer will fail?
Google expects that this offer will lure small and medium enterprises into getting a website which is far away from practical.
Reason 1: To get a domain elsewhere doesn’t cost much which a small scale enterprise cannot afford to.
Reason 2: These small scale enterprises lack the know-how to get a website designed for themselves using the template and feel it too much of a headache. Why will somebody at a small scale enterprise devote time and energy to get a website designed themselves.
Reason 3: Serious buyers of website will always want SEO done of their websites and Google doesn’t offer a ranking package for obvious reasons. It’s a search engine company.
Reason 4: This offer will be used by existing web designers and marketers to create sites which are MFA(Made for Adsense) etc. Every family nowadays has 3-4 PAN card members. Moreover, they will shift their sites to other hosts before the end of the one year term.

What Google should have done instead?

Instead of going for a free website approach, Google should have invested it’s resources to educate people about the internet. Moreover, provide assistance and guidance on proper use of the Internet and how to block indecent content. Google should conduct parent’s / teachers / professionals workshop to make aware these to them. Google should make use of its extensive media contacts to get the message across to the large audience in India. Once every person is convinced, INDIA WILL GET ONLINE.
Offering free domain + hosting to make India to get online, is like offering a free bicycle to everybody and asking them to use it. People will only use it if they are aware that it will increase their fitness levels. Come on  Google, grow up! 

Gmail Manager for Chrome

f you regularly use multiple gmail accounts and are a fan of Google chrome browser, you might be looking for easier ways to manage and check all your emails. I have come across a chrome extension which performs exactly like the old Gmail Manager for Firefox. Simple Mail Checker for Gmail is the name of the extension and is useful even for managing Google apps email along with the free gmail accounts.
Gmail Manager for Chrome
Not only you can save the passwords of various gmail accounts into this, but you get alerts and its easier to check multiple accounts as the cookies of one account don’t interfere with another account and you can switch easily. Even though google now support switching between multiple gmail accounts, this extension makes it a lot easier. Further many people have multiple Google apps emails like marketing@yourname.com , sales@yourdomain.com which are handled by a single person and in such scenarios Simple Mail Checker for Gmail works like wonders.  You can download the extension from this link: Simple Mail Checker for Gmail.
This Gmail manager also has the option to set the time interval between alerts and the option to play sound for alert too. To enable google apps email , one will have to check the BOX named “Google Apps account has been transitioned.” on the settings page of the extension. Also the layout can be changed from a square button in the top right corner just besides the Settings link. Overall a must extension for anybody working with multiple gmail accounts in chrome browser.

Alternatives for Adsense Banned Sites : Options

Got banned from Adsense? Looking for alternatives?
A lot of good sites or blogs over the net do not entirely depend on Google adsense for revenue. But the fact remains, that majority of sites today consider adsense as the best source for revenue. There is no two opinions about whether adsense is best or not? It’s a known fact that Google adsense provides the maximum revenue for contextual ad publishers. But what if you got banned from Google adsense program?
Even though some may manage to correct the mistake and ask Google adsense to reconsider the site, the vast majority of people do not get a site back to the adsense programs.
Alternatives for Adsense Banned Sites : Options
So whats the best alternative?
1. If your sites traffic is good enough, you can consider joining several of the popular banner advertising programs like Tribal Fusion or Value Click Media. You can also consider pop-under programs and the one I recommend is Edomz, you can signup here for the program.  This one pays decent eCPM and pays for traffic all over the world and also for traffic from Asian countries.  For anybody who has got banned from adsense, the above link should be the first option. And they pay by Paypal, Moneybookers as well as Egold within 2-3 days of request with just a minimum payout limit of $5.
2. Another efficient way is to divert the traffic from display banners on the banned sites to other unbanned sites of yours.  Here you should be very careful – Do not use any kind of redirect or illegal means to divert traffic. Placing a banner with content matching the target site is the only correct method to divert traffic. If you try any other wrong method, in the end you will stand to lose.
3. Try affiliate programs: A lot of affiliate programs pay for action rather than clicks or impressions. If your site has huge traffic which can covert for a certain product then you should search for affiliate programs related to that product.
Overall, of the all the available alternatives to adsense like Chitika, Clicksor, Adbrite and others I recommend the pop under advertising using eDomz. -Signup



Review of HP ProBook 5330m

Review of HP ProBook 5330mStarting at $799 the HP ProBook 5330m is a sturdy business laptop. At first look it may resemble a quite like the Apple’s Mackbook Pro but it still inherits the business like classic look of the HP laptops.
With a 2.5 GHz core i5 powered CPU and an Integrated HD 3000 graphics this machine give super power and performance. Keeping in view the same configurations on other brand similar laptops, this one is pretty lightweight and a value for money business laptop.
With a 13.3 ” display and sharp true colors the screen is bright from any angle and corner. The webcam shoots video at HD 720p and is enough for online chatting use. With a battery life of around 5 hours this laptop is quite admirable. However, if you wish to buy it hands down, its better if you puts your hands on the keybaord and the touchpad and see how comfortable it is for your use. HP ProBook 5330m also has a inbuilt fingerprint reader and Beats audio technology.
Also if you feel the battery won’t last for your extensive work, they have provided an option with the battery being a removable type for a backup one to be fitted.
At a starting price of just $799 the HP ProBook 5330m is certainly a value for money business laptop.
The starting price for HP ProBook 5330m in India should be around INR 39000.




Apple iPad 2 Shortage in India? Where to buy iPad 2 in India?

Apple Ipad 2 is in short supply in India at present. Check out at the nearest Apple store or Apple reseller and you might get a reply that its not in stock or a request to book it. Probably, for the ones who wish to own one, will have to ask their overseas friend to bring one with them. OR if you can wait for 15 to 20 days time you can order it on www.homeshop18.com. Most of the models of iPad are at ready stock on this website for sale in India. According to some sites, they outsource it from US and sell in India and that’s the reason for the delay in delivery.
Apple iPad 2 Shortage in India? Where to buy iPad 2 in India?
Most models are sold at the India price of Apple Ipad and comes with the Apple one year warranty and other benefits with the original Apple product.  Also a 500 Rs discount voucher is also available at checkout. For those who cannot wait for the iPad 2 can order it from this website.
Update: Now its out of stock also at homeshop18.com and the only option left is to buy from ebay.in. Compare various sellers prices at Ebay and also check their selling reputation before ordering the iPad from ebay.  Most of the sellers of iPad 2 at ebay will ship the items to where Bluedart couriers provide service. In case you live in a small city or village, you probably will have to travel to the city to get one or ask your friend in the city to receive the product and handover to you. On Ebay, as the iPad 2 is in short supply sellers may charge a premium over the official Apple iPad 2 prices.




Friday, March 30, 2012

Creative launches Sound Blaster range

Creative launches Sound Blaster range
Creative Technology has launched in India a new range of Sound Blaster products.
NEW DELHI: Creative Technology has launched in India a new range of Sound Blaster products comprising the Sound Blaster Recon3D sound card series together with the Sound Blaster Tactic3D gaming headset series. 

In addition to the new Sound Blaster products, Creative will also launch a range of affordable gaming headsets called the Creative Draco series. This series will feature edgy IDs and good gaming audio at attractive prices. The new products include sound card range including Sound Blaster Recon3D PCIe; Recon3D Fatal1ty Professional Series; Recon3D Fatal1ty Champion Series; and Recon3D (External solution).

Among gaming headsets there is Sound Blaster Tactic3D Wrath wireless gaming; Draco Junior Headset HS-430; and Draco Headset HS-850.

New products launched in the market are Sound Blaster Recon3D PCIe, Sound Blaster Recon3D Fatal1ty Professional Series, Sound Blaster Recon3D Fatal1ty Champion Series, Sound Blaster Recon3D (External solution). Gaming Headsets include:

Sound Blaster Tactic3D wrath wireless gaming

The special edition wireless headset combines the legendary Sound Blaster audio quality with a slick design featuring illuminated ear cups housing massively powerful 50mm FullSpectrum drivers, a removable microphone, integrated volume and mute controls, and uncompressed wireless technology designed to deliver THX TruStudio Pro-enhanced audio on your PC or Mac. The device is priced at Rs 11,999

Draco Headset HS-850 

The Creative Draco HS-850 gaming headset feature large 40mm Neodymium drivers that deliver explosive bass. The headset is priced at Rs 3,999

Draco Headset HS-430

The Creative Draco HS-430 gaming ultra portable headset has pleasing audio performance with superb bass and is priced at Rs 1,999

These products will be available in India at selected retail outlets from end of April 2012.




BenQ launches Joybee GP2 mini projector @ Rs 39,137

BenQ launches Joybee GP2 mini projector @ Rs 39,137
BenQ mini projector Joybee GP2.
BenQ has launched its mini projector Joybee GP2 in India. The palm-sized projector comes with an iPhone/iPod compatible dock and is 720p HD ready. 

BenQ claims that Joybee GP2 features a power-efficient 3LED projection technology, and can project for 30,000 hours in Eco mode without any fall in brightness. The projector has a touch-sensitive control panel and an intuitively designed user interface.

Weighning 565gm, the projector comes with two built-in 2W speakers. It can support a variety of devices such as HDMI, PC/AV connector, SD card and USB reader.

The Joybee GP2 can project up to a maximum screen size of 160-inches, while the 1.13 short throw ratio means one can project 44-inches at a 1-metre distance. It also has a basic speaker. Joybee GP2 is priced at Rs 39,137.




HTC One X coming to India in April

HTC One X coming to India in April
HTC One X smartphone
HTC India has announced on their Facebook Page that their new flagship device -- HTC One X -- will make its debut in the country this April. The One X was announced at MWC 2012, and will reportedly launch in India on Airtel's network. However, an unlocked version too would be available. 

The smartphone comes with a 4.7-inch HD display (720x1280p), and is powered by a 1.5GHz quad-core processor from Nvidia. It runs Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, and packs HTC's Sense 4.0 technology. The device is 8.9mm thick, and features an 8MP camera with an LED flash (1080p HD video recording), which is one of the best available in the Android line up.

HTC One X comes with 32GB of storage and 1GB RAM. It also boasts of HDMI port, NFC capabilities, and has built-in Beats Audio technology. The device also houses an 1800mAh battery pack.

The phone's camera is powered by the HTC ImageChip, which allows the camera to turn action shots into crisp photos. The smartphone can take four digital photos per second. The device is expected to be priced upward of Rs 30,000.




Google planning low-cost tablet PC


Google planning low-cost tablet PC: Reports
Google is teaming with Asia-based hardware makers on a low-priced, 7-inch tablet computer.
SAN FRANCISCO: Google is teaming with Asia-based hardware makers on a low-priced, 7-inch tablet computer to challenge offerings byAmazon.com and Apple, reports said on Thursday. 

Android software backed by the California internet giant will power hardware built by partners including Samsung and Asustek to compete with iPad and Kindle devices, according to Digitimes and the Wall Street Journal.

An Asustek tablet could be released as early as May with a price of $199 to make it an option for shoppers considering the Kindle Fire made by Amazon.com, said Digitimes.

Google putting its weight behind an economical tablet would likely put pressure on other gadgetmakers to lower prices. Google did not respond immediately to an AFP request for comment.






Tuesday, March 27, 2012

NFC-based phone sales to touch 100m in 2012


NFC-based phone sales to touch 100m in 2012: Research
Some 100 million cellphones using Near-field Communication (NFC) technology will be sold this year.
Some 100 million cellphones using Near-field Communication (NFC) technology will be sold this year, with sales more than tripling from a year ago, research firm Berg Insight said on Monday. 


Handset vendors released more than 40 NFC-enabled models in 2011, hoping to tap emerging market for mobile payments.


NFC enables data to be exchanged wirelessly over distances of a few centimeters, meaning mobile phones can be used to pay for goods, store electronic tickets, download music and swap photos and business cards.


Berg Insight said it expects the global market for NFC phones to grow to 700 million phones in 2016 from 30 million in 2011.


NXP Semiconductor is the leading manufacturer of NFC chips, while also Inside Secure has won some deals







Wishtel launches Android tablet Ira @ Rs 4,000

Wishtel launches Android tablet Ira @ Rs 4,000
Wishtel launched two tablets costing between Rs 4,000 and Rs 5,500 on Friday.
Wishtel launched two tablets costing between Rs 4,000 and Rs 5,500 on Friday, becoming the third company to introduce low-cost tabletswithin the week. 

Ira, the seven-inch Andoid tablet supports more than Indian languages besides HD video, Wi-Fi and 3G. The tablets have an in-built memory beginning from 2 GB that can be expanded to 32 GB.

Wishtel will sell through 350 distribution and support centers, targeting end users such as students, homemakers and corporate executives.

The company that makes the tablets in Maharashtra and Gujarat said it would participate in the second bidding round for Aakash.

The $35 tablet Aakash was launched in October last year and managed to secure more than 1-lakh pre-bookings in a matter of days. Pegged as the world's cheapest, the tablet is sold at Rs 2,276, compared to an iPad which begins from around Rs 28,000.

Early this week, two Indian companies engaged in making computer peripherals and commodity trading launched tablet personal computers or tablets at a fraction of high-cost tablets.

Zync launched its seven-inch tablet on the Android Ice Cream Sandwich at Rs 8,990 while IntexTechnologies launched i-Tab, an eight-inch Android tablet priced at Rs 11,900.

ABI Research suggests the sub-$400 tablets will grab more than 60% share of the market by 2016.