Author: Marshall

I am Marshall.

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News

iPhone 6 Rumor Roundup (Screen)

With the release date coming around the corner in Fall 2014, Apple’s next innovation has analysts guessing as to what features Apple will end up implementing in the iPhone 6.

 Here we will look together at some of the most popular rumors surrounding the screen on the upcoming iPhone:  Screen Size: Reports expect a larger screen. Ranging from 4.5 inches to 5.7 inches, rumors speculate that the screen size must be upgraded in order to compete with other top smart phones such as the Samsung Galaxy S4.  If the screen is to be bumped up to size of the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 (5.7 inch screen) it would be at the midpoint between the iPad Mini and the current iPhone 5s/5. According to analyst Brian White, Apple’s iPhone 6 will be a 5 inch screen after meeting with an Apple supplier, he is confident such a screen will appear on the 2014 model of Apple’s iPhone. Other rumors suspect that Apple may release two different size models, with one close to the 6inch range and one much closer to the 4 inches sported by the current iPhone.  Materials: There are also reports of Apple deciding to use sapphire for the screen material. 9to5Mac.com reports that“Apple just procured enough sapphire crystal furnace to make 100-200m five-inch iPhone displays in Arizona”. If they were to use sapphire, the screens would be scratch-resistant, as well as far more expensive due to the cost of sapphire.

Some also believe that the screen will be curved rather than flat.  If Apple were to carry out such a feature, they would be running a large risk that many other cell phones have taken and have not seen much success with (see http://www.pcmag.com/slideshow/story/316700/samsung-galaxy-round-and-5-other-curved-phones)

As the release date comes closer, we will continue to update you on the newest rumors circulating. Give us your opinion on what Apple may include in their newest iPhone          

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Reviews

App Review: Osmos

After playing Osmos on the iPad, I can clearly say that this one is a game changer. Osmos brings together melodic sounds, as well as a seemingly intense play. The game involves the player as a blue cell who absorbs smaller cells. The goal is simple, absorb the others yet Hemisphere games makes the process so ever rewarding. Osmos features two game types: Odyssey and Arcade. Odyssey is the story mode while the arcade mode is more to jump in and play. Osmos offers a unique gaming experience that draws the player into the world of survival that is boosted by fluid control, stunning graphics, and an addictive story mode.

Osmos comes on both the iPhone and the iPad. I would say, if you have an iPad this game is an absolute must, while for those with iPhones I would recommend this to those who use their iPhones mainly for games.

Price: $4.99 (iPad) $2.99 (iPhone)

Producer: Hemisphere Games

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Uncategorized

Mimobots: The Stylish USB Drives

Anybody who thinks flash drives can’t be fun should think again. I was recently introduced into a whole new world of flash drives created by a company called Mimoco. This Boston based company is renowned for their collectible line of designer USB flash drives called Mimobots.

Their elite collection includes collaborations with crossover artists and major licensed brands, bringing USB drives that look great to their consumers. A few of their existing licenses include DC Comics, Star Wars and Sanrio, the maker behind Hello Kitty®. What really stands out for the Mimobot drives isn’t really the speed of the drives, but rather the true uniqueness behind each and every one of the products released.

Mimobots bring a sense of style into the electronic world– bridging the gap between technology and art. Offered at 2, 4, 8, and 16gb of storage space, pricing for Mimobots begins at $19.99 for the lowest capacity, but increases with the size. Although Mimobots are not the cheapest option on the market, their head-turning appeal more than makes up for the price difference. Mimobots are not only stylish but also useful–we all need a flash drive, so why not sport one that reflects your individuality! I would recommend Mimobots to anyone and everyone.

 

 

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Uncategorized

Targus 15.4″ Velos Messenger (Wheat)

Targus 15.4″ Velos Messenger (Wheat)

 

Targus has recently introduced the Velos Messenger line.  In this line, they focused on a stylish look with maximum portability.  I believe they met these expectations.  Before I go any further, here are the specs:

 

Device compatibility: 14.33″ x 1.69″ x11.81″

Exterior Dimensions: 14.57″ x 12.01″ x 3.54″

Exterior Material: Polyester Twill

Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Weight: 3.17 lbs

 

This bag is stylish, there’s no doubt about it.  The Velos Messenger bag comes in several themes: Chocolate and Wheat.  Each one of these come with two different colored straps.  One of Targus’ main features on this bag is incorporating interchangeable colored straps.  Now some may say this is not a big deal.  However, having a colored strap that goes around the bag, and with a single switch, you can change the entire look of this messenger bag.  That seems like a big deal.  The Velos messenger bag definitely receives some style points.

Targus also focused on keeping this bag slim, and allowing more portability.  First, they keep the pockets down to a minimum.  In my opinion, they were able to achieve this without sacrificing too much usability and compartments, but do not expect as much carrying space as a backpack.

Another step they took to keep the bulk down was a retractable handle on top.  This handle lies flat against the case when not used, and is able to be used just like a regular laptop handle when extended.

The Velos messenger bag has an inner compartment, and an outer compartment.  The inner compartment holds the laptop secure between two ventilated pads, and neoprene.  The laptop compartment is able to hold up to a 15.4” Laptop (measured diagonally).  This inner compartment also has space for several books or folders.  A small lid covers this compartment, and is attached by Velcro.

The outer part of the bag has a zippered pocket, which is useful for a charger, your business card, possibly even a keyboard. Also, on the back of the bag there is a slim pocket for a folder or a couple of sheets of paper.

The outside of the bag has three pouches that aren’t held together by Velcro or zippers.  For me, these pockets are mainly used to hold my portable mouse, and my iPod Touch. Not having any Velcro or zippers is not a problem if the bag is kept upright, but if not, it becomes a slight problem for holding valuables.  The colored strap goes through these two plastic attachers that remind me of those used on airplane seatbelts.  The strap goes all the way through the bottom of the bag, and out the other side.

If The Design of this bag seems difficult to understand through text, please refer to our photostream on the right.

Quality:  I found the quality of this bag to be above average.  Targus puts the quality where it needs to be, so the consumer is gets the best value.  For instance the strap attachments are made of plastic, but the most important part, the laptop compartment, is fully supported with air ventilated pads, and held tight by a flexible neoprene sheet.

I give the Targus Velos Messenger bag a 4.5 out of 5.

The Velos Messenger bag is great for those who want a slim, and protective case, but also want style.  Overall, I would recommend this carrying bag for stylish students, and those wanting to travel light.

 

 

 

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Reviews

Review: Bowers and Wilkins MM-1 Desktop Speakers

Bowers and Wilkins Hi-Fi speakers, once again raising the standard even higher for brilliant sound quality. The MM-1 speakers are the latest product in their tradition of excellence. The difference between these and their other speakers lies mainly with the fact the MM-1s are designed for desk use. Before we start, let’s begin with the breakdown:

  • Dimensions: 3.9 in x 3.9 in x 6.7 in
  • Connection type: USB
  • Includes: Speakers, Remote, Audio Cable, USB Cable, Power Supply
  • Weight: 1.9lbs

Point Scaled Grading

Style: 1-25 Given: 23
Price: 1-15 Given:12
Quality materials: 1-15 Given: 14
Brand name: 1-10 Given: 9
Modern technologies: 1-15 Given: 15
Compatibility: 1-15 Given: 13.5
Ease of use: 1-5 Given: 3

OVERALL: 89.5

Set up: Setup for the MM-1s is simple, just plug and play. In the box, a small, black, pebble shaped remote is included for easier control, which is a very useful tool.

Style: Needless to say, the MM-1s have style. Jet black, and chrome silver, they truly are a statement to the way quality speakers should look. In addition to being known for their Hi-Fi sound, Bowers and Wilkins are also known for the appearance of their products.

Price: At the retail price of $500, the MM-1s are definitely pricey. Although the MM-1s have incredible sound quality, you have to ask yourself, do you really want to pay $500 dollars for a set of desktop speakers? If the answer is yes, then go for it. But for the average consumer $500 seems to be way too much.

Quality Materials: Quality materials? Yes. The MM-1s are very sturdy speakers, and have a nice weight to them. They do not have that light and cheap feel that many other speakers have, but they sport a very solid build.

Brand name: It’s Bowers and Wilkins, what else is there to say?

Modern Technologies: The MM-1s use new technologies, such as the USB connection, which gives better quality fed through the speakers. They also boast two drivers, one for bass, and one for treble. The MM-1s also use digital signal processing, that keeps the bass and music sounding good at whatever volume played at.

Compatibility: There’s nothing really here to complain about, these speakers are compatible with Macs, as well as PCs. They also include an audio jack on the back for headphone compatibility.

Ease of Use:  The MM-1s are unique, in the way that they are specifically designed to be desktop speakers. The audio from the two speakers converge at around two feet from the speaker, ultimately giving the user musical bliss. The downside to this is if you move away from the center of the speakers, the sound seems faded. One solution is to move the speakers according to your position in the room.  Although this seems to work, it still is an inconvenience to reposition every listening session.

Continued Evaluation

Bowers and Wilkins MM1s have crisp vocals, strong bass , but they cost the hefty price of $500. The MM-1s are truly revolutionaries to the field of desktop speakers, giving Bowers and Wilkins’ signature Hi-Fi sound. I would recommend the MM1 speakers for hard core audiophiles, as well as any consumer wanting great quality speakers and is willing to pay $500 up front.