Smartphones....in 3D?

Aside from all the new phones out there these days, there are new technologies showcasing all the time, and 3D technology is one of them. There are currently two devices available in the Rogers line up that feature this technology - the HTC Evo 3D and the LG Optimus 3D. The best part about it? You don't have to wear those goofy glasses to enjoy amazing 3D pictures and video!


But just how does the technology work? We all remember the 3D pictures we had as kids that were red and green fuzzy images until we put on the included cardboard specs, so how come we don't have to wear them now?


For all those tech enthusiasts out there, here is your answer. There are two technologies used to enable a glasses-free 3D experience - lenticular display and parallax barrier. Lenticular works best at distance and on larger displays (this was used on those old rules and stickers that, when tilted and moved, displayed motion). Conversely, parallax barrier is ideal up close, on smaller screens such as smartphones. Both technologies display different areas of an image to your left and your right eye. Your brain fills in the blanks and effectively tricks you into seeing three dimensions.


Another cool thing about these phones? Whether you take a picture or video in 3D or not, it never compromises the quality of the image when you send it to another user. If they have a 3D device, they will see it as you see it; if they have a regular smartphone, it will simply show as a high-quality image. This means that you aren't limited to enjoying the multi-media options if your friends and family don't have a device from the same family.

LG Optimus 3D

HTC Evo 3D

Why Choose a 3D Smartphone?


The HTC Evo and the LG Optimus feature the latest in Android platforms - Gingerbread 2.3 - which means that you can capture your best pictures and video, while surfing the net, and downloading the latest editing application. All at the same time.


You have the choice of switching between the 2D and 3D camera to suit your shooting needs, and you can also customize the interface with multiple 3D applications now available. This is all powered by a dual core processor, making sure you don't miss a moment of your 3D movies and games.


You also have "mixed mode" which allows you to complete standard tasks, such as emailing, browsing and calling, in 2D; and you can enjoy videos, games and pics in the 3D mode app.


Final moment of awesome-ness - if you own one of the new 3D TV's, you can connect via an HDMI cable and have your 3D images come jumping out of the big screen.


Both of these devices create a niche market - they not only address the needs of those customers who want the latest device with the smartest technology, but they provide an element that makes the phone entirely unique. A great excuse to get your phone out, play around with the 3D camera and show of your skills to your friends and family.


So if you are looking for the perfect gift this coming season, be sure to check out these two Android devices. We think you'll enjoy them!

Interactive Shopping Barcodes

Last year we wrote that the advent of online shopping was really taking off, and that consumers were conducting much of their shopping from their Smartphones either through outright purchases or to comparison shop.

Since then, 2011 has brought about the use of 2D codes -  square, black and white bar codes that can be used to store various bits of information. These fancy little codes were first introduced through BlackBerry Messenger, where users could add contacts by scanning the bar code of another user with the device's camera. This was essentially a mini-revolution for BlackBerry users - not having to ask for a PIN or even find your own was a great time saver, and made Messenger even more popular.

Now, the knowledge that these 2D codes have the ability to store all kinds of information - essentially anything a retailer or advertiser might want. Some of the ways that the codes have been used so far are:

• "Hello, My Name Is" tags - this allows new people to learn more about you, what you do, background information, and other general information
• Business Cards - a quick and easy way for people to download all your contact information simply by scanning a code with the camera on their phone
• Outdoor Billboards - consumers can walk up to an advertisement and scan a bar code which then takes them to the campaign page for the ad, rather than a company web page. This is particularly awesome for movie advertisements - readers can scan a code and be taken right to the movie trailer or the nearest theater to order tickets
• Websites - companies can add 2D codes to their "Contact Us" pages to allow visitors to dial in immediately, without having to search for information
• Webinars - adding a 2D code to online presentations can encourage audience involvement, e.g. small contest to test learning
• Social Media Sites (LinkedIn, Facebook) - position yourself as a tech-savvy professional, and make it easy for those searching you to find more information about you, or even download your resume
• T-Shirts - great for prizes and product giveaways
• In-store posters with coupons - instead of having customers find promotional coupons throughout a store when purchasing products, scanning a bar code right at the product can give instant rewards to be obtained at check out
• Dial a Phone Number - by using a 2D code to store a phone number, users can simply scan and dial right through to order a product or service
• Books, articles and eBooks - direct people to social media related to publications, such as websites for more information, related reads, blogs, forums etc.

One of the up-and-coming companies to work with this technology is Gauge Mobile - a new company that has realized the potential that these codes have in connection with the increased use of Smartphones. This is great for consumers and retailers, no matter who they are or what they sell, due to their ability to "deliver relevant content to an audience at the most opportune time - on their Smartphone" and the fact that they are extremely cost effective, and efficient.

Keep an eye out for these little codes - they seem to be popping up just about anywhere!

What Does 2011 Have In Store For The Wireless Industry?

2010 was definitely a landmark year for the adoption of Smartphone and other mobile devices, such as tablets, and also for the development of software, operating systems and applications for just about anything you can think of.


So how is 2011 going to see in the new year of wireless communications and technology? 


Todd Engels of Marketing Drive has identified the following five trends that we should look out for in the coming year:


1) Leveraging the power of social media to drive commerce (e.g. Groupon)
Groupon has been the innovator when it comes to group based purchasing, and it will be exciting to see how this method of promotion will affect distribution, effectiveness and efficiency of special offers to consumers.


2) Integration of mobile (handheld) into shopping marketing programming
This allows for additional touch points with the consumer throughout the shopping process. Creating that additional connection can allow companies to capture early adopters and be more innovative themselves.


3) Marginalization of “brand.com” promotional websites
Companies are looking to feature their brands and offers on existing social networking sites, sharing sites, or potential partner sites to save having to create their own stand-alone web presence.


4) Localization of promotion
There is more of a move to grass-roots levels in local communities, even with the use of the Internet to facilitate promotions, offers and products / services.


5) Continued blurring of the line between content and promotion 
Companies are looking to have their promotional messages linked smoothly and continuously over a number of media, such as TV, print and gaming. They want to keep the promotion indistinguishable from the content because of the ability to deliver in high-value brand environments. Integration into video games, for example, is a new venture that many companies are stepping into, as a new way to reach their audience.


These five points all cover the element of Smartphone-mobile integration for the consumer. With new online opportunities emerging all the time, and existing elements continuing to move forwards, 2011 will definitely be the year to watch the communications industry.


For the full article and examples to accompany each trend above, see the iQmetrix Newsletter for this week.

Students Head Back To School with Smartphones

Originally posted September 23, 2010

This month has seen the return of students to their respective institutions, and what a month for wireless this has been!

With a huge influx of quick messaging and touch screen devices, such as the Samsung Corby Pro and the LG Neon 2, students have had their fair share of phones to choose from.

There has definitely been an increase in wireless activity among students, even from last year, as purchasing a new phone has become a staple of the "Back To School Shopping List".

And more students are moving away from the standard cellular device, embracing the Smartphone trend that offers a more feature-rich experience. Not only do these devices give students access to their email, but they can stay up to date with their friends on campus via the social networking sites that seem to be a standard on new devices.

Devices such as the Motorola Flip Out with MotoBlur, with swipe text technology for faster messaging, and the BlackBerry 9300 Curve, with 3G capabilities, have been extremely popular. Prices are now more affordable, and there have been some great Student Plan offers this year.

It has been an extremely busy time for us - some might say it has been like a second Christmas for the wireless industry!

The Newest Android From Sony Ericsson

Originally posted June 17, 2010
Key Features of the new Sony Xperia X10 - available now at Rogers:

• The Xperia X10 phone provides a rich navigation experience with an easy-to-use, smart and visual interface
• The Timescape and Mediascape applications let you view all your communication or media in one window
• Access Google services easily or enrich your phone with applications from Android Market
• The 4" responsive touch screen and ultra-fast processor also make navigating the phone a breeze and watching your favourite videos on it pure pleasure
• Take pictures with an 8.1MP camera with face recognition software
• Built in GPS provides location based services like Google Maps, to help you find your way to your destination. You can even add location information to your images with the geo-tagging function
• Turbo 3G gives you broadband-like speed in your phone. Download large files and attachments super fast, and browse websites and news feeds in seconds
• Fully synchronizes with your old phone, even if it isn't a Sony Ericsson. Transfer contacts, calendars, notes and bookmarks; and you can even manage up-to-date information in your mobile phone from the Internet
• Suits any style with colour availability in black or white

Get a full product simulation on the Sony Ericsson website

New Contender in the Wireless Industry Space

Originally posted May 14, 2010
Apple announces the launch of the iPad...

...and Rogers Wireless is set to be the official carrier for the product.

Information appears to be limited to us at the Rogers end because there has been no word yet on whether our dealer locations will hold the product itself, or if we are just expected to provide the data activations for the device.

So far, two data plans have been announced for the iPad, and many of us are expecting customers to purchase the device at the Apple Stores, and then come to a Rogers location to activate or add their data plan to existing accounts:

• $15 for 250MB
• $35 for 5GB

And as with the release of the original iPhone, there are always the complaints that Rogers isn't providing an unlimited data plan. If you ask me 5GB is a serious amount of data!

In the past, responses to the lack of an "unlimited" data plan prompted Rogers to offer a 6GB data plan - an extremely popular plan with data users Canada-wide. And although the complaints continued, statistics show that the average user of an iPhone only needed about 500MB of data a month! So what's all the fuss about?! Especially when there is Wi-Fi built in.

And who's to say that things won't change as the iPad becomes a more substantial product within the Rogers Wireless space? Rogers has never carried a product quite like the iPad, and only time will tell as to how customers will react to it, purchase it, use it etc.

Experience with the iPhone might help our dedicated sales representatives to anticipate questions, concerns, and expectations for the iPad.

The iPad comes in two main specifications - Wi-Fi alone, and Wi-Fi with 3G - and has three sizes - 16GB, 32GB and 64GB. Pricing is likely to be similar to the US where the Wi-Fi 16GB model starts at $499.99.

It will be interesting to see how this new product impacts the wireless and notebook markets - Rogers already has their Netbook products out in the market, and the way I see it...the iPad is likely to blow all of them out of the water.

Watch out - the iPad will be here soon!

Wireless Device Software for BlackBerry Bold 9700

Originally posted April 15, 2010

BlackBerry ® BoldTM 9700 customers can now update their device's software over the air using the Rogers wireless network or through Wi-Fi.

To check if a BlackBerry Bold 9700 has the latest device software, customers will need to click on "Options" from their home screen, select "Advanced Options" and then "Wireless Update."

If an update is available they will be able to download and install it over the air with no charge for the data used during the update.

Eligibility & Restrictions:

Customers must have a BlackBerry data plan to perform updates over the air. Please note that Rogers Wireless customers with the $15 Personal Email plan are not eligible for wireless updates.

Customers will not be able to upgrade over the air while roaming but will be able to check for software update availability when they return to Canada.

Customers can use their device during the download process, but not during the installation process. They may pause or cancel the download process to make or receive calls, however, if the customer answers a call during the download process, the download process pauses automatically. The download process resumes once the call has ended.

Before performing a wireless software update, customers must make sure their device has the following:

• 64 MB of flash memory
• BlackBerry device software 5.0 or later
• Battery power level of at least 50%
• An available wireless network connection

Which Smartphone Operating System Suits Your Best?

Originally posted March 2, 2010
As we make our way into 2010, consumers seem to be moving more and more into the Smartphone category for their wireless devices. But with so many to choose from, how does one decide which is the best for their communication needs?

What Is Android?

Android is a mobile operating system that has since been adopted by Google and can be found on phones such as the HTC Dream and HTC Magic. It works on an open development platform that allows developers to create applications that are extremely rich and innovative, to suit all user needs.

Why Android?

• Only Android helps you keep track of your life by displaying email and message notifications at the top of every screen. One touch takes you immediately to the information that's most important to you.
• Drag and drop your favourite widgets, applications, photos and folders onto your home screen for quick access to what you use all the time. Customize the phone for you!
• The Android platform allows multiple applications to run at the same time so you never miss a beat. Switch between applications seamlessly without having to go through a ‘home' screen.
• If you surf the web and send lots of emails, then the large touch screens and QWERTY keyboards available on the Android devices, such as the HTC Dream and the new Samsung Galaxy Spica, are for you.
• Android seamlessly integrates you favourite Google apps so they work better together for the best Google experience. Every Android device comes with your favourite Google apps built-in.

What is Mac for iPhone?

Most people automatically associate the Mac operating system with the Apple notebook brand that has been popular in the market for a while now. However, in recent years, the makers at Apple have introduced their operating system onto one of the most popular Smartphones to date - the iPhone. A platform that allows users to customize their phone by way of installing Apps through the Apple Store, the iPhone has become the ultimate in communication devices - a portable phone, iPod, computer, and video player.

Why Mac for iPhone?

• The operating system takes up less than 500MB of the device's memory, so there is plenty of storage for your music, movies and applications, especially with 8GB, 16GB and 32GB models of the iPhone.
• The home screen contains all available applications and allows the user to pin five specific icons to a bar at the bottom of the page for quick access to items used most.
• Multi-touch interface allows the user to make a call simply by tapping a name or number in the contacts, favourites list, call list, or anywhere else for that matter.
• Applications work together seamlessly and then sync with your computer - whether you are on a Mac or a PC.
• The accelerometer embedded on the iPhone allows the device to be tilted, turned and rotated to impact game play, and give the user the full experience of what this device is capable of doing.

What is RIM for BlackBerry?

BlackBerry was the first Smartphone operating system to take the stage, and has since visited numerous upgrades in an attempt to remain top of its game. The RIM operating system is very different to the other options on the market, which helps RIM stand out on its own, but in recent months, there have been additions to align items such as Applications with devices such as the iPhone and the Android phones.

Why RIM for BlackBerry?

• This OS is much simpler than others, keeping email viewing and browsing as clean as possible, reducing downloading times and also data usage as a result.
• The RIM OS fully synchronizes with Microsoft Outlook for real time updates, information and push email.
• The RIM OS functions seamlessly through server options such as BlackBerry Enterprise Server, created specifically for multiple users within a corporation.
• The BlackBerry App Store now provides many different applications for BlackBerry users looking for similiar options to the iPhone and Android devices

What is Symbian?

This is an operating system purchased and used by Nokia for devices such as the E71, focusing on providing the underlying routines and services for application software. This operating system delivers touch screen technology and an advanced software development environment for media-rich applications.

Why Symbian for Nokia?

• Wide selection of applications available for a range of mobile phones
• Implements industry standard protocols, interfaces and management services for IT integration
• Extensive connectivity options
• Ability to set two profiles for the user - one for professional and one for personal
• Ability to access multiple email addresses on one device
• Remote locking option available for peace of mind