Mobile Fun Blog

Solar Powered Case for the iPhone is back!

Friday, November 20th, 2009

Last year one of the most popular cases for the iPhone 3G was the Solar Powered case, it was a huge success and demand was so great that stock dried up very quickly and we were unable to source any more, forcing us to discontinue it just a few months later. We’ve been working really hard with our suppliers ever since then to find a replacement and are pleased to announce that it’s finally here – the all new Solar Powered Charging Case is now available for the iPhone 3G & iPhone 3GS.

iPhone 3G Solar Powered Case

The case design is different to the previous model – it’s now made from a tough polycarbonate that will help protect your phone from knocks and scrapes. The whole of the back cover is a solar panel and can generate enough energy to fully charge the case in around 3 hours in sunlight. Built into the case is a powerful 2100mAh battery – that’s 50% more than the iPhone’s built in battery.

The case can be charged using either the solar panel, or if you need to charge it faster, you can connect it to a USB port on your computer or laptop using a Mini USB cable.  Once fully charged, the case can more than double the standby, talk time and audio playback times of your phone. It has a separate on/off switch, giving you the choice to keep the extra power until you need it or to keep your battery topped up through out the day.

iPhone 3G Solar Case Charging Ports

Another new feature over it’s predecessor is that with the Solar Power Sleeve you can now charge any other device by connecting it to the USB output on the bottom of the case.

The Solar Powered iPhone Case is available to pre-order now with stock due shortly.

Release Date Calendar updated for October

Monday, October 5th, 2009

It’s the start of a new month, so I’ve just updated our release dates calendar to show the main handsets due out in the run up to Christmas.

September saw the release of a few new handsets and quite a few announcements from most of the big manufacturers. October looks like it’s going to be a busy month, with everyone trying to get their phones up ready for the Christmas rush.

Nokia

Nokia N900

Nokia will be expanding their N-Series range with the, N97 Mini and the N900. The N900 runs a completely new operating system and is Nokia’s latest attempt to conquer the touchscreen market.

We also have a provisional release date for the new XSeries handsets – the X3 and X6.

View all Nokia release dates

Sony Ericsson

Sony Ericsson Satio

Sony Ericsson’s Entertainment Unlimited range is getting closer to launch. The  Satio (previously known as the Idou), Yari and the Aino are all slated for release very soon. Each handset focuses on music, gaming or imaging.

The Sony Ericsson Pureness is also due to make an appearance shortly. It’s an unusual looking phone that has a transparent screen and is focused more on style than features.

View all Sony Ericsson Release Dates

Samsung

Samsung Omnia II

Samsung’s 12 megapixel cameraphone, the Pixon12 although delayed is expected very soon, along with a new range of touchscreen handsets. More handsets will join the Omnia family – the most exciting is the Omnia II along with a new range of low end smart phones – the Genio Pro and the Genio TXT.

View all Samsung Release Dates.

Palm

Palm Pre

Palm have put a lot into the Palm Pre, it’s doing well in America, and it’s new operating system is said to be one to rival that on the iPhone.
See the latest Palm Pre release information.

HTC

HTC Tattoo

Since the launch of the Hero, HTC have been a bit quiet, but following the announcement that Microsoft will be releasing their new phone operating system on October 6th, HTC revealed the Touch2 would be the first Windows Phone.  The HTC HD2 has also now been confirmed as being released and it really is a multimedia beast. The second Android phone branded as HTC is also due to make an appearance – the HTC Tattoo.
See the latest HTC release information.

TomTom iPhone Car Kit Release Date

Thursday, September 10th, 2009

Despite TomTom releasing their Sat Nav application a few weeks ago for the iPhone, the car kit to accompany it is still nowhere to be seen. Rumours of pricing and availability have been floating around for a while now, but this week TomTom have finally confirmed that the TomTom iPhone Car Kit will be available to buy in October.

More information is slowly starting to emerge on it’s features too.  The most surprising news is that the Car Kit can be used with any Sat Nav Apps. The Car Kit can be used for handsfree calling, music playback, turn-by-turn instructions and charging, although the GPS signal enhancements will only be available when you’re using the TomTom App.

If you don’t want to shell out the rumoured £115 for the car kit, there are a number of other options to consider. The best value is the iPhone Sat Nav starter pack which gives you a holder and charger for the iPhone, and the Jabra SP700 is a great bluetooth car kit that clips to your sun visor and can handle your calls and music playback and route them through your car stereo speakers in the same way as the TomTom Car Kit.  The price?  Less than £55 for both – that’s less than half of the rumoured cost of the TomTom kit for all the same features  - and best of all you won’t have to wait upto 8 weeks for them as they’re available to order now!

For more information on the different ways to use Sat Nav on your iPhone in the car take a look at my post on Using Sat Nav on the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS.

Release Date Calendar Updated for September

Thursday, September 3rd, 2009

It’s the start of a new month, so I’ve just updated our release dates calendar to show the main handsets due out in the next 3 months.

August saw the release of some key handsets – the BlackBerry 8520, Nokia E52  and the latest Android handset – the Samsung Galaxy.  September is promising to be a busy month with at least 9 new  handsets scheduled for release, with another 19 planned for October.

Nokia

Nokia E55

Nokia will be adding to their E-Series range with the, Nokia E55 their latest messaging phone with a new ‘Half-qwerty’ keypad. The Nokia 3720 is a rugged handset that has been designed to take on the Samsung Solid and JCB Toughphone.

We also have a provisional release date for the Nokia N97 Mini, E72, N900 and the new XSeries handsets, the X3 and X6.

View all Nokia release dates

Sony Ericsson

Sony Ericsson C901

Sony Ericsson’s Entertainment Unlimited range has been delayed again, but the release of thef the Satio (previously known as the Idou), Yari and the Aino is getting closer. Each handset focuses on music, gaming or imaging.

The Sony Ericsson C901 will be joining the Cyber-shot family along with the environmentally friendly Sony Ericsson C901 Greenheart; a handset made from eco friendly materials designed to help preserve the environment and reduce pollution.

View all Sony Ericsson Release Dates

Samsung

Samsung Pixon12

Samsung’s 12 megapixel cameraphone, the Pixon12 although delayed is expected very soon, along with a new range of touchscreen handsets. More handsets will join the Omnia family, and a couple of cheaper touch screen handsets are also expected

View all Samsung Release Dates.

Palm

Palm Pre

Palm have put a lot into the Palm Pre, it’s doing well in America, and it’s new operating system is said to be one to rival that on the iPhone. See the latest Palm Pre release information.

HTC

HTC Touch2

Since the launch of the Hero, HTC have been a bit quiet, but following the announcement that Microsoft will be releasing their new phone operating system on October 6th, HTC revealed the Touch2 would be the first Windows Phone. See the latest HTC release information.

BlackBerry HS500 Bluetooth Headset available to pre-order

Thursday, August 20th, 2009

Although it hasn’t been confirmed yet, it looks as though there is a new Bluetooth headset on the way from BlackBerry. The current headset, the BlackBerry HS-655 was produced by Plantronics and was a great headset in its day, but as time and technology have moved on, it is definitely in need of an update.

The BlackBerry HS-500 has a brushed metal finish that’s similar to that found on current BlackBerry smart phones and incorporates the latest noise cancelling technology to make sure your calls are as clear as possible.

BlackBerry HS-500 Bluetooth Headset

The Features of the HS-500 include:

• Noise blackout technology with two noise cancellation microphones
• Multipoint technology lets you connect 2 devices at the same time
• Pair up to 8 devices – 2 at a time
• Crystal clear sound by advanced DSP (digital signal processing) technology
• Intelligent volume controls and audio shock protection
• Dual wearing style ear gel or flexible ear hook
• Dedicated on/off slide switch
• Micro USB Charging
• 6 Hours talk time
• 120 Hours stand by time

The BlackBerry HS-500 is expected into stock in the next few weeks and you can Pre-Order the BlackBerry HS-500 now for priority despatch and to avoid any disappointment.

Features, specification and release dates are subject to change

Introducing CableDrop from BlueLounge

Monday, August 17th, 2009

When I first saw CableDrops from BlueLounge, I thought “Why on earth didn’t anyone come up with this sooner!?” – BlueLounge CableDrops definitely prove that sometimes the simplest ideas can be the best.

I’ve lost track of how often I unplug a cable, only to then sit back and watch as it slides down the back of the desk or some other unreachable location. When I use my laptop at home, the power cable and printer USB cable are always the first ones to disappear.

CableDrop’s are such a simple idea. They stick to your desk and can then hold any cable in place and save you from having to crawl around on the floor under your desk hunting for cables.

CableDrops by BlueLounge

They’re not just for laptop cables though, CableDrops can be used to hold your mobile phone charger, the earphones for your iPod or MP3 Player and can even be used in the car to keep your car charger close to hand. If you’ve got wires and cables trailing across or hanging down the back of desks, cupboards and sideboards, then CableDrops are the perfect way to tidy them up and keep them easily accessible.

CableDrops have many different uses

BlueLounge CableDrops are available to pre-order now for just £9.95 for a pack of 6 and come in two colour options – muted (shown above) and bright.

Introducing the Bluelounge Refresh Charging Hub

Thursday, August 13th, 2009

If you’ve got a multiple devices that need charging on a near daily basis, then this could be the best charging solution for you. The Bluelounge Refresh is a similar concept to the Bluelounge Sanctuary that was released last year – Instead of having to use a separate charger for each of your devices, you just plug in the Refresh, and then use one of the 6 charging leads to power your phone or MP3 Player.

Bluelounge Refresh - Multi Device Charger

Available in 3 colours – Pink, Black and White, the Bluelounge Refresh will be a welcome addition to any home where there are frequent arguements over mis-placed chargers or limited free plug sockets.

BlueLounge Refresh Charging Options

There are 6 different charging leads on the Bluelounge Refresh, 2 Apple Dock connectorsfor iPhone and iPod, 1 Mini USB and 1 Micro USB. As Micro USB is becoming the standard charger for all new mobile phones it means that you’ll be able to use the Refresh for many years without worrying about it not being compatible with your next phone.

The other two leads are standard USB ports that you can use to charge any mobile phone using your existing USB data/charging cable. These charging cables can be hidden underneath the base until needed leaving your Refresh charging hub looking neat and uncluttered.

The Bluelounge Refresh has been certified by Apple as ‘Made for iPod‘ & ‘Works with iPhone‘ and will work with any MP3 Players that charge using a USB connection.

The BlueLounge Refresh is due to be released on the 26th August and is available to Pre-Order now in Pink, Black and White.

TomTom for iPhone – pricing revealed?

Wednesday, August 5th, 2009

It was announced back in March at the Apple Developers Conference, but until now further details have been very few and far between.. Until now.

We already know that the software and the car cradle will be available separately, and we’re now hearing that the car cradle will retail for around £115, but there is no news yet as to whether this includes the software or not.

UPDATE: TomTom for UK is available now in the iTunes App store for £59.99. No confirmed pricing yet on the car kit. iTunes Link.

iPhone TomTom Car Kit

Another image has surfaced of the iPhone TomTom Car Cradle, this time showing off a few more of it’s features:

1. EasyPort Mount from the TomTom ONE and TomTomXL
2. Built In Speaker
3. Volume Control
4. Microphone for handsfree calling
5. Mini USB Charging Connector
6. Audio Line out (for connecting to Car Stereo)

Sources are also confirming that it will work with the iPod touch too.

We’ve not yet been able to confirm any of this yet with our suppliers, and we’ll post again as soon as we know more.

On a similar note, the rumour mill is also suggesting that CoPilot Live 8 is on its way to the App Store and will be available some time next week for around £26. UPDATE: CoPilot Live 8 is available now from the AppStore – iTunes Link

Decisions decisions…£60+the cost of the car kit for TomTom, £26 for CoPilot…

Subscribe to the feed to keep updated

Handset Release Dates – July Update

Wednesday, July 1st, 2009

We’ve just updated our release dates calendar to show all the key handsets due out in the next 3 months.

July should see quite a few of the most highly anticipated phones make their way on to the shelves.

Nokia

Nokia E52

Nokia will be releasing their flagship Camera Phone, the Nokia N86 8MP, which as the name suggests features a fantastic 8 megapixel camera with Xenon Flash.  We’re also expecting the replacement to the E51, the imaginatively titled Nokia E52 to be released as well.  The E52 keeps the same look and feel as the incredibly popular E51, but has an improved battery, camera and a 3.5mm headphone socket.

We also have provisional release dates for the Nokia E55, Nokia E72 and Nokia 5530 Xpess Music.

View all Nokia release dates

Sony Ericsson

Sony Ericsson C903

Sony Ericsson have some big handsets coming out over the next three months. Their Entertainment Unlimited range currently consists of the Satio (previously known as the Idou), Yari and the Aino – each with their own focus on music, gaming or imaging.

The Sony Ericsson C903 will be joining the Cyber-shot family along with the environmentally friendly Sony Ericsson C901 Greenheart; a handset made from eco friendly materials designed to help preserve the environment and reduce pollution.

View all Sony Ericsson Release Dates

Samsung

Samsung Pixon12

Samsung are aiming to be the first to launch a 12 megapixel cameraphone, by releasing the Pixon12 ahead of the Sony Ericsson Satio and they don’t plan on stopping there.  A whole range of touchscreen handsets are scheduled over the next 3 months, as well as 2 new business handsets, the BlackBerry-esque Samsung Omnia Pro B7320 and the Samsung Omnia Pro B7610.

View all Samsung Release Dates.

HTC

HTC Hero

HTC only have one handset due over the next three months, but as it’s going to be the first android handset that isn’t Google branded, it should have a few tweaks and enhancements over previous version.  Check the calendar for the latest HTC Hero Release Date.

Palm

Palm Pre

Palm have put a lot into the Palm Pre, it’s doing well in America, and it’s new operating system is said to be one to rival that on the iPhone. See the latest Palm Pre release information.

Top Accessories for the Nokia N97

Friday, June 12th, 2009

With the Flagship Nokia N97 now available, it’s time to get all the little extra’s that you will want to go with it. Now, you may be thinking, “the N97 has it all, what could I possibly need to make the phone any better?” so I’ve put together a “must have” list of N97 accessories that will keep your new N97 in pristine condition and working to its full potential.

The Sim Free Black Nokia N97 is available now.

Martin Fields Screen Protector – N97:The last thing that you’re going to want to do to that 3.5″ touch screen is scratch it, and these screen protectors from Martin Fields are the best way to keep your screen looking like new. Available individually or in a Twin Pack.

See all Nokia N97 Screen Protectors

Nokia CP-323 Carry Case:It’s not only the screen on the N97 that you’ll want to protect. The Nokia CP-323 is a lightweight fabric case that has been designed specifically for the N97 to protect it against knocks and scrapes. A soft lining helps keep your screen clean too.

See all Nokia N97 Cases

Nokia HF-200:This hands free, plug & play speakerphone solution allows you to speak freely – in the car, in the office, or at home. Clip it to your car’s sun visor or put it on your desk to make hands free calls wirelessly with your N97.

See all Nokia N97 Bluetooth Car Kits

Nokia WH-500 Stereo Headphones:The stereo headset included with the N97 does a pretty good job, but if you want to really enjoy the music from your phone, a new set of headphones should be one of your first purchases. The Nokia WH-500 provide crystal clear audio give you full control of your music and calls, without having to touch your phone.

See all Nokia N97 Headphones

Nokia BH-804 Bluetooth Headset:You’ve got a stylish phone, so you’ll need a stylish Bluetooth headset to go with it. The Nokia BH-804 is one of the smallest and lightweight headsets you can get. The BH-804 is made from brushed aluminium and includes a matching desktop charging stand.

See all Nokia N97 Bluetooth Headsets

Nokia DC-6 Car Charger:The Nokia N97 is great for keeping up to date with friends on Facebook, checking your email, watching videos and catching up with Eastenders with the BBC iPlayer – but as with every other phone, any application that relies on an internet connection will drain your battery. A car charger will help overcome this problem.

See all Nokia N97 Chargers

Nokia Maps – UK Drive & Walk Voice Navigation:

The Nokia N97 comes with Nokia Maps pre-installed, and currently this is the only Sat Nav system that is designed to run seamlessly on the phone. Nokia Maps is free to use for route planning and basic navigation, but with this license, you can activate full turn by turn voice navigation. We currently sell the license for less than £45, through Nokia this license will set you back over £60.

See all Nokia N97 GPS Accessories

Nokia CK-300 Car Kit:

The Nokia CK-300 is a true multimedia car kit. As well as working brilliantly for handsfree calling, the CK-300 also takes care of your Music and Navigation Audio. A small simple keypad allows you to control Music Playback, while the free Car Menu Application turns your N97 into an integral part of your car kit with easy handsfree access to your calls, contacts, music, and maps.

See all Nokia Car Kits

Nokia CR-39 Car Holder:

Help keep your Nokia N97 secure with the genuine Nokia Car Holder CR-39. Attach the holder to your car with the included suction cup and position it horizontally or vertically with the help of the practical rotating adapter for added convenience.

See all Nokia N97 Car Holders