MyPhone Ocean Mini and Lite Literally

MyPhone updates its entry level line in the form of Ocean Mini and Ocean Lite.


The Ocean Mini sports a 3.5 inch HVGA (320x480) display while the Ocean Lite is at 4 inch WVGA (800x480).The devices are powered with Mediatek MTK6572 Dual-Core Processor with Mali-400 GPU. No word on RAM but most likely with reference to their competition, it should have 512MB RAM and 4GB of internal storage.

In terms of camera, the Mini has only 1.3MP Rear Camera and NO Front camera. The Lite has 3.2MP Rear with Flash and VGA front.

With regards to their connectivity, both have WiFi and Bluetooth... But there's NO 3G which is the Major Flaw so 2G Only.

To wrap up things, MyPhone is keen on delivering smartphones on all fronts and in this case for low-end and budget consumers. Then again, as competition gets serious and in the age of always ON, the omission of 3G is a deal-breaker. If it won't bother you then Ocean Mini and Lite will deliver your basic smartphone needs.

Looks like Ocean Lite gets a price cut at only 1,999.00. Look Here:
MyPhone Ocean Lite 4GB Android 4.2 (Black)
MyPhone Ocean Lite 4GB Android 4.2 (White)

Specs Summary
MyPhone Ocean Mini Specifications
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
3.5" HVGA (320x480) Display
1GHz Dual-Core MediaTek MT6572 Processor
Mali-400 GPU
Expandable via MicroSD up to 32GB
1.3MP Fixed-Focus Rear Camera
2G Only
WiFi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth
Dual SIM / Dual Standby
Price: Php1,999 (Official SRP)

MyPhone Ocean Lite Specifications
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
4-inch WVGA (800x480) Display
1GHz Dual-Core MediaTek MT6572 Processor
Mali-400 GPU
Expandable via MicroSD up to 32GB
3.2MP Fixed-Focus Rear Camera with Flash
VGA Front camera
2G Only
WiFi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth
Dual SIM / Dual Standby
Price: Php2,999 (Official SRP)

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Microsoft Office for Apple iPhone iPad is Official!!! and Free!!!

Yes, its official Microsoft Office has finally made its way for the iPad and iPhone. Specifically three important office apps namely Word, Powerpoint and Excel is free for download for viewing documents only.

Update now its FREE!!! to create and edit your files and folders. For advance editing features, you need a subscription to Office 365. (See here)

Here's a promo video from Microsoft marking its introduction...

Head on over to Apple App Store and get it... Click here

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Cherry Mobile Amethyst - Budget Getter

Cherry Mobile is at it again with its low down crazy prices... Here is Amethyst, a super-budget needy smartphone covering the basic needs.

With a 3.5 inch display is quite adequate for portable device that brings Android 4.2 to the mix powered by Dual-Core Processor with decent enough Mali-400 GPU though limited by 256MB of RAM and 2GB storage. It really depends on how you use it, if your just plain call and text and some social at the side then great if your gamer then this ones is not for you.

Casual camera features at hand with 2MP rear and VGA front camera combo. In terms of connectivity, it comes with WiFi and Bluetooth plus you have also HSPA+ for a more speedy data connection. Battery is just a measly 1200mAh.

Overall it is for beginners, first-time users, students. a secondary dual-sim phone or if your tired of your feature phone. Cherry Mobile takes down prices to a low which for sure it will attract price conscious consumers and makes it available for the less fortunate. At 2,299.00, no need to argue about specs if you need more then shell out more.

Looking for One?
Get it Here:
Cherry Mobile Amethyst (White)

Specs Summary:
3.5" HVGA (320x480) Display
1Ghz Dual-Core CPU
Mali-400 GPU
256MB RAM
2GB Internal Storage
Expandable via microSD up to 32GB
2MP Rear Camera With LED Flash
VGA Front Camera
HSPA+
Bluetooth 4.0
WiFi b/g/n
Dual-SIM
1950mAh Battery
PhP 2,299.00

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Cloudfone 400dx: Entry Level Power

Cloudfone is on a roll with its releases and now here comes a powerhouse literally in the form of Cloudfone Excite 400dx.

This entry level device sports a 4 inch WVGA TFT Display and like other key players makes use of 1.2GHz Mediatek Dual-Core MT6572 Processor with Mali-400 GPU. It also applies to internal storage with 4GB on board and 512MB RAM.

In terms of optics, it sports a 5MP rear / VGA Front camera combo that Lacks Flash. In terms of connectivity, HSPA+ is listed for data but no word of WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS but with todays standards they should be there...

What set it apart from other smartphones at 2,999.00 is its battery at 3000mAh so you know why its a powerhouse compared to 1500-2000mAh on other brands. This surely is a winner for Cloudfone cause people looking at those price range look on staying connected for days and Excite 400dx surely delivers that.

Its Available at Kimstore... But I found one on Sulit or to say OLX at a higher price.

Update: So seems that Cloudfone will be offering it with another 1400 mAh battery. So that makes two batteries that you can interchange when your running low. With that, you get another back case. For a steep price, you surely get more than what you pay for.

Android Jelybean 4.2.2

4" WVGA (800x480) Display

1.2Ghz Dual-Core MediaTek MT6572 Processor

Mali-400 GPU

512MB RAM

4GB Internal Storage

5MP Rear Camera

VGA Front Camera

FM Radio

HSPA+

Dual SIM Dual Standby

1400mAh / 3000mAh Battery

₱2999

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Starmobile Engage 7 Lite

Starmobile Engage 7 goes Lite... Entry level gets serious.

The new Engage 7 Lite runs on Android 4.2.2 Jellybean. It houses a  7 inch WSVGA (1024 x 600) Multitouch TFT Display powered by Rockchip RK3168 1.2GHz Dual Core Processor together with PowerVR SGX540 GPU. Memory is at 1GB RAM and 8GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD). I guess the word "Lite" is an understatement with decent hardware on board.

Only 2MP rear and VGA front fixed focus camera for optics and only WiFi for connectivity. This is where Starmobile made cuts to reduce price. On Flip side, it does support USB OTG and carries 3000mAh battery.

It does have a premium look to it with its metallic finish and its innards surely shines for budget tablet. Can't say anything much on optics and connectivity. But at 3,990.00 it is really worth considering for you first tablet or for playing with kids.

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Spotted: Lenovo Miix 2 8 inch Tablet

Guess your looking for a Windows tablet too. Like me, I have been on a constant look out for prospects... Behold, the Lenovo Miix 2 8 inch Windows Tablet which the manufacturer officially launch although it took time to get on the shelves.

The New Lenovo Miix 2 offers a 8 inch HD WXGA (1280 x 800) IPS Display powered by Intel Baytrail Processor clocked at 1.33GHz coupled with Intergrated Graphics and 2GB of RAM. Storage is at 64GB eMMC but don't fret a microSD slot  is available if you need more.

On the connectivity side, it houses a Bluetooth 4.0 and WiFi b/g/n but NO GPS. On the flip side, this Miix 2 is the 3G variant so meaning you have data connectivity that its competition lacks. Other than that, it is equipped with 5MP (they say up to 8MP) rear and 2MP front for your portrait and video needs.

The device comes with stereo speakers and audio jack. Charging is via Micro-USB and supports as a host for OTG devices. Added software features includes Lenovo® Companion App, McAfee® Internet Security (30-day free trial), VeriFace® Pro, Lenovo® Cloud Storage, Evernote®, CyberLink YouCam, Skype™

and Zinio Online Newstand. It's a shocking though during the launch and other reviews that Microsoft Office is pre-installed but it looks like you just get a TRIAL!!!

To sum it up, the Lenovo Miix 2 has potential with its bright and responsive IPS display, Ample 64GB storage and full Windows 8. However, I must say I kinda miss an HDMI Port and if I may request a Keyboard Dock. Trial Version for Microsoft Office is just plain SAD. Price at 21,999.00 that comes with (Free) Tablet Cover with Stylus. 

To be honest it has potential but it is underwhelm by Trial Version Only Office Suite which at present time is a NEED when buying Windows and at that price I could get myself a hybrid with keyboard dock in the name of ASUS Transformer T100. The Lenovo Miix 2 just edges out its competition with 3G other than that it just serves as alternative.

If you want one it is Now Available at Villman!!!

Lenovo Miix 2 WiFi+3G 8-inch

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Spotted: Alcatel One Touch Pop C7

More of a spotting frenzy, seeing all this handsets pops just around the corner. Anyways here's a Pop from Alcatel - One Touch POP C7.

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Spotted: Cloudfone Excite 500q

It looks like Cloudfone is strengthening its android line up and with the new Excite 500q, its getting serious business.

At price alone you will surely get excited to buy the 500q... Wait a moment before selling out those hard earn money you need to know makes device so worthy.

Lets begin, it sports a 5 inch 5-point Multitouch capacitive display with a FWVGA 854x480 pixels resolution. If you think damn not even qHD, just for your info they are just a difference of few pixels. Another thing to consider, with competition in the price range they only have lesser touch points (cough, screen size) compared to 500q.

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Spotted: 8 inch Myphone Tierra Pad 4

While online shopping... I stumbled on an unannounced MyPhone 8 incher tablet offering - the Tierra Pad 4.

The device packs a 7.85 inch IPS LCD Display powered by 1.2GHz Quad Core Mediatek MT8389M Processor (PowerVR SGX544 GPU) coupled with 1GB of RAM and 8GB Internal Storage.

Camera wise it has a 8MP primary camera with Flash and a 5MP front-facing. Guess you wont be disappointed with your selfies now haha.

On the side of connectivity, it packs the basic WiFi and Bluetooth tandem with OTG support. There's a single micro sim slot so therefore it has phone functionality (yes, it can do sms too).

Battery is at 4500mAh. Sold for ₱ 9,988.00

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Unpacked: Samsung Galaxy S5 goes official

Samsung unpacks its newest flagship - the Galaxy S5. Finally the most anticipated handset from the top dog in the industry with so much expectation, will it deliver? Lets find out...

Samsung has taken another route from smooth glossy plastic to a dotted pattern leather-like soft touch back that comes in shades of Charcoal Black, Shimmery White, Electric Blue and Copper Gold. It kinda industrialized the look of the GS5 with great mix of chrome polycarbonate and glass fiber material. With comparison to the GS4, its a tad taller, wider and thicker and goes the same with the bezel. The design and construction is to facilitate the water and dust resistance IP67-certification of the GS5 that took a toll on the overall look and feel of the device.

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Nokia Goes Android with Nokia X, Nokia X+ and Nokia XL

Finally, Nokia has join the Android Bandwagon using forked out version of Android Open Source system but with array of exclusive Microsoft and Nokia Services. This is quite a surprise considering it seeks to develop on a competitor platform. Anyways, it brings a mix of features from the Asha and Lumia line. Title UI has been implemented plus Skype, Outlook.com App, and many more.Nokia has also pitched in with Glance Screen, HERE Maps, Mix radio and dedicated Nokia Store. If you say application will be limited you can always sideload. Another thing is the "Fast Lane" that tracks everything you do on your phone from all recent history apps, messages and services. Universal Search





The Nokia X and Nokia X+ sports a 4 inch WVGA IPS LCD Display powered by 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor. Just the basic connectivity with WiFi, Bluetooth and 3G. If you're wondering yes it also supports WiFi-Hotspot. In terms of camera, you will be greeted with just 3MP Fixed Focus camera so don't much. The difference between the X will only have 512MB RAM while the X+ has 768MB. Battery is at 1500mAh. Kinda looks like an Asha. Seems decent to me to cater to your basic Android needs.

If you want something more then you could try the Nokia XL as the name suggest it bigger version with 5 inch IPS LCD Display but it also has the WVGA resolution (the Horror!!!). Under the hood, it is just like the Nokia X+ 1GHz Dual Core Snapdragon S4, 768MB RAM, 4GB Internal Storage and expandable storage. You do get an upgrade in terms of camera with 5MP Auto Focus Primary camera with LED Flash and 2MP front. Battery is at 2000mAh. This one takes inspiration from the Lumia line.

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Alcatel POP S Series LTE Budget Phones - POP S3, POP S7, and POP S9

Alcatel outs its new wave of POP with S for speed - or to say with LTE.

Lets start out small, thats the POP S3 which sports the most modest features. Its display is a 4 inch with WVGA Resolution powered by 1.2GHz Quad-Core Processor (cough, Mediatek) together with 1GB RAM and 4GB of Internal Storage. Camera combo of 5MP with Flash on the rear and VGA on the front. Connectivity to say is a win-win for it has WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC and last and foremost LTE. Powering the POP S3 is a 2000mAh battery. (no pricing detail)

Moving on the medium sized offering- the POP S7, with its 5 inch qHD Display which is at its heart is the new Mediatek chipset clocked at 1.3GHz that supports LTE. With regards to the other internals, camera, and connectivity features is just the same with the POP S3. The Battery is just a tad higher at 3000mAh. ($260 More or Less will be sold at 11K)

If you still looking for a bigger screen that will suit your big fingers like me haha well the POP S9 might be for you cause it houses a 6 (5.9?) inch HD Display with Oleophobic coating and is powered by Qualcomm 1.2GHz Snapdragon 400 Quad-Core Processor. It does have the 1GB RAM but with a bigger internal storage at 8GB. Its optics is slight upgrade at 8MP rear with flash and 2.2MP front. Battery is at 3400mAh. ($300 more or less will be sold for 14K)

Offering LTE is to say the main selling point of the new Alcatel Pop S series. It also covers user preference in screen sizes as well as packs decent internals and complete set of connectivity. But with regards to availability it depends cause like in the POP C series which was presented but not all have been release in the Philippine Market. Just hope your desired unit get release or Alcatel may be good this year. :)

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LG G PRO 2: Guns Blazingly Great

LG updates its phablet offering LG G PRO 2. Being a flagship it brings the latest to counter off what other competitors has to offer.

To start of, it houses a 5.9 inch IPS Display just the right size and no bigger than a tablet screen with great viewing angles and a Full HD 1080p resolution. Being manufacturer of the best display, you will not be disappointed. On the other hand, your thinking it might be too big and so comes in touch features like the Mini View that triggers a small working window of your homescreen from swipping left or right that can be adjusted as desired. Multitasking is also covered with Dual Browser by long pressing the back-button will let you choose apps to put to either upper or lower portion of your screen to use.

With the internals with FHD on board definitely a powerful Snapdragon 800 SOC should do a better job for that fluid and lag-less Android experience. Complimented with 3GB of RAM to run most apps in the background and support multitasking and 16GB/32GB Internal storage for well storage for your apps and files.

Camera wise it packs a 13MP primary snapper and 2.1MP front and also comes with added ammo. It is supported with as LG puts it "Natural Flash" to say gives a natural lighting to your pictures. For videos its capable of up to 4K resolution of recording and has slowmo features at 120fps. With OIS+ surely makes a difference in your outputs.

The LG Pro 2 also has complete package with regards to connectivity WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, Infrared and also LTE.

You also get Android 4.4 KitKat with LG Emotional UX as well as new feature called the Knock Code an enhance of knock on unlock feature with just sequential combinations. This feature though is not exclusive that it will soon roll out to other models.

The G PRO 2 is with an entire plastic construction with texturized back that holds the uniquely LG controls for Power/Lock and Volume Rocker. Had an LG then, so far I can say they produce quality and durable materials.

Overall the LG G PRO 2 is gearing up for a fight bringing in the guns and heavy artillery with added features and uniquely LG that's seeks to standout. Said to be release by end of March in Asian Markets so if you want one start saving now...

Update: It's Now Available for only 32,990.
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Alcatel Updates its One Touch Idol line with One Touch Idol 2, Idol 2 Mini (S) and Idol 2S

Alcatel has introduced the successors to their Idol One Touch line with Idol 2, Idol 2 Mini and Idol 2 S.

The Idol 2 will sport a 5 inch qHD Display powered by 1.2GHz Quad-Core Processor that is supported by 1GB RAM and 8GB Internal Storage. Its optics is at 8MP primary camera with Flash and a 2MP front. It does have the basic connectivity as WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, and NFC but only has HSPA+.

The Idol 2 Mini share almost all of the Idol 2 specs the difference of course is the screen size at only 4.5 inch but also with qHD resolution.

If your disappointed with the two siblings above then you may take a look at their S variants. The Idol 2S sports the same 5 inch but has HD remsolution. It is also powered by 1.3GHz Quad-Core SOC more or less a much more newer SOC. The Idol 2 Mini S however is just the LTE variant which goes the same for the Idol 2 S.

With regards to Battery repsectively 2150mAh for Idol 2S, 2000mAh for Idol 2, and 1700mAh for Idol 2 Mini.

It is said to shipped with Android 4.3 and is promised to be upgradeable to KitKat 4.4. The New line of Idol will also arrive with Dual Sim variant that has double internal storage except for the S variants.

Honestly with the new Idol 2 line is to say sub-par especially with qHD resolution. However a lower resolution will have a more liquid performance and with an IPS LCD Screen for better viewing angles plus a scratch-resistant glass and Oleophobic coating it does improved the the outlook for the devices.

If you want more then maybe the Idol S variants are for you coughing up a few bucks for HD resolution, better SOC and LTE.

Alcatel also provides set of accessories from smart covers and whats looks like a wearable device. This sets it apart from other where you simply have problem finding accessories.

It is said that the Mini will arrive in March with 3G model ($232) and LTE (2 Mini S $287) while on Idol 2 is said to be on April or May 3G model ($274) and LTE (Idol 2 S $342). Might between 11K to 17K in Philippines Peso me thinks.

You just weigh your needs to decide which ever to get, it really depends on your consumer preference anyways.

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Samsung Gear 2: Galaxy out Tizen In with Neo

Samsung Gear 2 has just been announced kicking out the Galaxy - Android and comes with Samsung's very own Tizen. Samsung does promise that it will be compatible with their "more than dozen" Galaxy smartphones.

The New Gear 2 is said to be thinner and lighter (68g) sporting the same 1.63 inch AMOLED Display powered by 1GHz (from 800Mhz) Dual-Core Processor complimented with 512MB RAM and 4GB Internal Storage. Packs that 2MP HD Camera and brings in improved health sensors and infrared blaster.

The device also comes in a Neo Variant to say a tad cheaper model with lesser chrome and no camera but much lighter at 55g.

Oh on the battery side it packs a 300mAh (smaller than the original) which promises to be more energy efficient and Samsung claims to run about 2-3 days.

On the flip side, the wearable is now IP67 certification for resistance to water and dust great for those adventure junkies...

The New Samsung Gear 2 comes in Charcoal Black, Gold Brown and Wild Orange while the NEO variant has Mocha Grey. Global release date is said to be in April but no pricing as of now.

Sources:
engadget
gsmarena

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LG G2 Mini Me: Bite-Size KitKat

Yep the LG G2 flagship gets a Mini Me... Adopting the uniquely backside keys and array of color choices.

The G2 Mini will have a 4.7" qHD Display powered by either Quad-Core Snapdragon 400 or Nvidia Tegra 4i chipset depending on 3G or LTE or Dual-Sim variant. On board as well is 1GB RAM and 8GB of internal storage (yes, it should have a microSD slot).  It also packs the 8MP primary camera (and for sure a front duh) and comes with a modest of 2450mAh battery pack. It said to run the latest Android 4.4 KitKat with LG Optimus UI and other enhancements.

Looking at the specs seems the competition is intense even in mid-range division. With the same processor as the MotoG and countless others it would really a tough call. Though Pricing is key as well as Timing but overall performace and consumer gossip prevails.

Excited to see what others will be offering and MWC is just around the bend...

Update: Now Available at 13,990.00

Sources:
engadget.com
gsmarena

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Gionee Elife S5.5: gets World thinnest title... for now

Haven't heard of Gionee? then you might get to know it for it now holds the world title for thinnest smartphone with its Elife S5.5. As its name suggest its only 5.5mm thin!!!

This anorexic monstrosity sports a 5 inch Display powered by 1.7GHz Octa-Core Processor (ehem Mediatek 6592 for 3G or 6595 for LTE variant me thinks) complimented with 2GB RAM. On the imaging side, it packs a 13MP rear camera with Flash and 5MP front. Skinny as it can be it is still powered with 2300mAh energy pack.

Oh by the way, it runs Gionee's own Amigo Android-based OS.

With the presence of the company here in the Philippines, it has a bigger possibility to arrive. Pre-Order in China has started for 3G version at $370 (17K-20K PHP?) and for lte is supposedly schedule on June!

So far the device is at par with its local competition bringing the Octa-Core processors, 2GB RAM and bigger MP in camera as well as decent battery life but my concern is pricing if this baby will be competitively priced for the Philippine Market. One more thing, hopefully it does well in managing heat that was a major complain in the Huawei Ascend P6. Then again with the Thinnest Smartphone in the World in your hands you do have bragging rights for owning one. haha

Lets see when it arrives... maybe...

Source
engadget.com

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