An Amazon Smart Phone In The Works… Really?
January 31st, 2013 by Tech Staff
Yes, Really! Why shouldn’t they. Amazon, the biggest e-commerce retailer, transformed itself from a book e-tailer to the titan of the purchasing web. They are a digital content powerhouse. I suspect this new smart phone will be so integrated with Amazon services. They have a huge market share in cloud storage services, you can download digital content such as books, digital music and video effortlessly, and not to mention Kindle e-Reader and Kindle Fire tablets. The own the e-commerce sites Zappos.com, Endless.com, Shopbop.com.
This will be a huge disruption in the smart phone field and all the major tech websites are abuzz. It’s going to be the clash of the titans – Amazon, Google, and Apple. Could the recent fight between Amazon and Apple precipitate this new service?
According to TheEconomist.com, “The most hard-fought battle between them so far has been in the e-book market. Amazon accounted for some two-thirds of all digital-book downloads in America last year. Apple accounted for just 5%, but it has been trying to woo publishers away from Amazon with an aggressive strategy that gives them more freedom to determine e-book prices than under Amazon’s terms.”
In 2011, Amazon and Apple were at odds over the percentage that Apples requires when users buy products through their iPhone or iPad apps. The Daily Beast Reported “This all started because booksellers found a clever way to sidestep Apple’s rules about selling stuff on its platform. If a developer wants to sell something via an iPad app—it’s called an “in-app purchase”—the transaction must go through Apple, which keeps 30 percent of the money and passes 70 percent on to the developer. Here’s what Amazon and the others do: when you order a book using, say, the Kindle app on the iPad, you’re taken to a Web browser and the transaction takes place there, not inside the Kindle app itself. That way the 30 percent doesn’t go to Apple.” Seeing this, Apple then blocked the link to Amazon’s website in all e-books from the Kindle App. This prevents you from loading amazon.comand purchasing a book with all the proceeds going directly to Amazon.
Back to the Smart Phone – The Rumors are:
· – Reports claim Amazon is working with Foxconn, the same manufacturer for Apple.
· - The smart phone is expected to be available summer/fall of this year.
· – The smart phone will run the Android-based operating system like the Kindle Fire Tablet.
· - It will have 3D mapping from UpNext Software company.
· - The smart phone is priced low from $100 to $200 – Amazon expects to make profits from digital content services not from the price of the phone.
With all the services that Amazon offers would you purchase this smart phone?
Blackberry Announces Alicia Keys As New Global Creative Director
January 30th, 2013 by Christen
Alicia Keys was named Blackberry Global Creative Director earlier today.
The performer was introduced on stage during the company’s BlackBerry 10 launch in New York.
“Alicia Keys has come to BlackBerry because she believes in the product and technology, and subscribes to our overriding philosophy to ‘Keep Moving’: to empower people through mobile computing and communications,” said BlackBerry President and CEO Thorsten Heins in a statement.
He added, “We are excited she will be bringing to us her enormous capabilities, as well as a vast network of relationships in the entertainment, social media and business communities, to help shape our brand and grow our business.”
“In her new role, Alicia will work closely with app developers, content creators, retailers, carriers and the entertainment community to further shape and enhance the BlackBerry 10 platform, and inspire creative use through its remarkable capabilities and functionality,” reads a statement on Keys’ website.
It continues, “From music to books, to film, to apps, Keys will lead the charge of enhancing entertainment consumption and distribution, through the power of BlackBerry 10.”
It took no time for Alicia Keys to jump on Twitter and share the news with her fans…
The new Blackberry Z10 will undoubtedly be in the palm of Alicia’s hands in her next appearances (which will include singing the Star Spangled Banner at the Super Bowl this weekend)… but will she really get rid of her iPhone? I’m sure the paparazzi would love to get their hands on a shot of Alicia jamming out to ‘Girl On Fire’ with her iPhone…LOL…
The Blackberry Z10
Will Alicia Keys influence your next smartphone purchase?
#2013CES Technology Hangover (Episode One & Giveaway)
January 14th, 2013 by Christen 
The 2013 Consumer Electronics show is gone, but not forgotten. In our first Technology Hangover episode, we tracked across the CES showroom floors for the best in technology and entertainment for your enjoyment. Check out the full episode here.
And if the shiny displays of Cellariris cases paired with designer shoes tickled your fancy, make sure you check out the video and comment/describe your favorite shoe/cellphone pairing seen in the video below for a chance to win your very own custom Cellairis SHOUT case (valued at $34.99). Enter today! Contest ends 1/21/13.
iPhones Are Becoming Cheaper And Will Soon Be Arriving At WalMart Stores Nationwide
January 9th, 2013 by ChristenIt’s been reported from several sources that Apple has decided to manufacture a more cost-effective version of the next iPhone device. (I guess if you can’t beat em with quality, at least kill em with price…*shrugs*) According to WSJ.com Apple is developing a cheaper version of its iPhone and could launch the new device as early as this year.
The tech giant has been exploring a lower-end iPhone for years but plans have accelerated as Apple’s supremacy in smartphones has slipped, sources told the Wall Street Journal. The less expensive phone is likely to resemble the standard iPhone, but with a different, cheaper body. Making the shell out of polycarbonate plastic rather than the aluminum casing of the iPhone 5 would allow Apple to lower the cost.
In the works: The less expensive iPhone has been in the works since at least 2009, with Apple seeing it as a way to grab market share and introduce people to the brand.
Not only does Apple have plans of developing cheaper phones but they’ll be available via WalMart’s pre-paid phone plans on Friday! No, seriously! According to various sources online, Straight Talk Wireless has announced that customers have been able to enjoy the iPhone experience on Walmart’s Straight Talk ”BYOD” phone plans for quite some time now, but the prepaid provider will begin directly selling the iPhone 5 – as well as the iPhone 4 – on January 11th. The iPhone 5 will be offered in 16GB and will be sold for $649, while the iPhone 4 will come with 8GB storage and go for $449. If you don’t want to pay the entire cost up front, you can take advantage of Walmart’s monthly installment-financing plans for $25.
This can only lead to two ending results later this year and depending on your preferences both options will be bad. 1. Apple will lose its grip on the lifestyle marketing chokehold it once had on technology and mobile consumers. (Remember a time when Baby Phat, Guess & FUBU were hot commodities sold only at fine department stores? Now you can only find them at discount stores with “manager’s special” tags on them.) Because Apple products are becoming the norm and available to everyone, it will lose its position as a coveted product that everyone wants, WHY? Because everyone will already have it (or have access to it!) So once the mass appeal weakens, what’s next? Say goodbye to celebrity endorsements in commercials.
Remember those entertaining Apple commercials starring Siri with Samuel Jackson and Zoey Dechanel? They’re most likely to be replaced w/ the likes of Sweet Brown or worse, one of those computer happy weirdos from MTVs Catfish.
Now that Apple has made their move, I wonder what Samsung and Windows has in store next? What’s the next go-to lifestyle smartphone that true techies will turn to? Can you guess which device will become the next great lifestyle phone? Share your thoughts and opinions below…
Four Reasons Why This Year’s #2013CES Will Impact Your Life For The Better
January 8th, 2013 by Christen
Let’s face it, not all nerds are created equal. We know this, and thankfully we’re not at the top of any nerd’s megabrained list. However, we definitely know a thing or two about mobile, computing and consumer electronics – and more importantly, we know that this year’s #2013CES will be the most impactful Consumer Electronics Show yet. If you’re wondering how in the world a electronics convention could have any impact on what you have going on in your life today, you’re sadly missing the boat. The announcements, premieres and unveilings happening over the next two days might just be the products meant to make your life unbelievably easier and impact your 2013 more than you know.
1. samsung, Samsung, SAMSUNG!
Among the companies present at CES, Samsung will be one of the most influential. The company has evolved from challenger to champion in recent years, displacing Sony as the world’s largest manufacturer of high-end TVs. Not only has Samsung produced amazing televisions, home electronics and smartphones throughout the years now with their sights set on tablets and cameras – this company is sure to set the standard for innovation during CES 2013.
Why It Will Impact Your Year: This is the year where consumer electronics meets customized streaming content and word on the block is that Samsung has already begun making waves into the next level of content creation with the mSpot streaming services.
2. Connected Convenience
This year, if it’s not ready to go out of the box, it’s not truly effortlessly connected and therefore could no way become a leader in the world of connected convenience. That’s what it’s all about this year at CES and you’ll undoubtedly see and hear more and more about Bluetooth this and WiFi that. With over 61% of households having WiFi, manufacturers are banking on making products that are easily parable and that makes the most of this new wireless lifestyle.
Why It Will Impact Your Year: Have you sat in a newer model Chevy, Cadillac or Acura lately? Not only are households becoming well connected but cars are too. We’re headed into a wireless world, whether you like it or not and if you want to transition with the latest in consumer electronics, you better learn how to pair that smartphone with your refridgerator, your mp3 player to your car and that tablet to your tv.
3. iEverything
Even during its’ absence from CES – Apple still manages to dominate with this year’s iLounge Pavilion. The iLounge Pavilion features the latest and greatest third-party accessories and software for Apple’s iPod®, iPhone® and iPad®. From electronic plug-ins to fashionable cases, speakers, headphones and exciting new games and applications, you’ll be amazed by the opportunities created by their great designs and features. More than 500 companies that make peripheral technologies for Apple devices have signed up to show their wares at CES.
Why It Will Impact Your Year: Apple is constantly evolving it’s products, from mp3 players, to smartphones and now with rumors of a new revolutionary television device – you’ll definitely need to be aware of all the gadgets, accessories that could make for easy living with your new tv in the future.
4. Windows 8
First off, Microsoft isn’t officially at the show this year – but you can expect more Windows 8 tablets, laptops, and tablet / laptop hybrids boasting the new operating system in it’s physical absence. While many of the major companies — Dell, HP, Lenovo, Toshiba, Samsung, etc. — released Windows 8 tablets and computers before the holidays, you might be surprised at what some were holding back. We’re also holding out for some interesting tablet concepts from Intel, Nvidia and others.
Why It Will Impact Your Year: As supercharged laptop computers evolve, each company is not only attempting to convince you that their product is similar, but they’re also becoming competitively priced to aggressively battle it out for that consumer dollar. (It’s a great time to be in the market for a laptop or desktop computers.)
Want to keep up with round the clock CES news you can use? Subscribe to our updates via Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
#2013CES Technology Hangover Show LIVE From Las Vegas
January 7th, 2013 by Christen
If you’re a fan of Divas And Dorks, by now you’ve seen a fair share of #2013CES travel tweets and deets. (If you’re new to Divas And Dorks and wondering what CES is… click here.) While many bloggers have updated articles with “How To” posts about CES – I thought there’s no better way for readers to experience CES than through the eyes of a diva who’s conquered Vegas plenty of times on her own. Grab those sunglasses and Advil – cause this year, I’ll be vlogging daily on The Technology Hangover Show LIVE from Las Vegas.
With 3,000 exhibitors and more than 150,000 expected attendees during four days starting Jan. 8, the show will be a primordial soup of controlled chaos. And at 1.9 million square feet of convention floor space that equals the area of 32 football fields, this year’s CES will be the largest in its 47-year history.
From touchdown to wheels up, and very little sleep in between. If you’re looking for the insider’s guide to CES 2013 – you’ve found it. Looking for the latest news and coverage from consumer giants like Samsung, Sony, Monster and more – it’s here! Want to discover how nerds really get down after the conference floor closes and the dance floor opens, you definitely found the right spot! This daily series will feature a few of my favorite technology gals, celebrities and will definitely dispel the myth that What Happens In Vegas, Stays In Vegas…
Want to learn more? Check out The #2013 Technology Hangover Show teaser below and get ready for a wild ride….VEGAS STYLE BABY!!!!
Want to keep up with round the clock CES news you can use? Subscribe to our updates via Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Sunglasses & Advil… The #CES2013 Technology Hangover Is On The Way!
December 27th, 2012 by Christen
Grab those sunglasses, Advils and get ready for VEGAS BABY! That’s right, in less than three weeks, the mobile and tech industry will descend upon Las Vegas for CES 2013. Looking for the coolest gadgets, cutting edge technology and the tablet news that you can’t afford to miss? It’ll be at the Consumer Electronics Show – January 7th – 11th 2013.
This will be the third year of “Divas Doing Vegas” and it’s already promising to be one of the best year’s yet! Stay tuned for the up-to-date news and videos live from HTC, Monster, T-Mobile, Sony, Bluetooth and more on DivasandDorks.com.
In case you didn’t know…What happens in Vegas, stays in social media – so you might as well party right while in Vegas! Check out a few of our favorite CES party spots to spend those CES showroom after hours and make a few friends along the way.
Mashable Smart Bash 1/8/137:30pm to 10:30pm
Vanity Nightclub at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Tickets are $35 featuring LG demos and the Mashable editorial team Monster Cable Party featuring Alicia Keys 1/9/13 7:30pm Awards starts 8:45pm
Details to be determined
Paris Las Vegas – Paris Ballroom Bluetooth Special Interest Group Event 1/9/13
7:00pm – 10:00pm
Lavo Nightclub at The Palazzo
Free RSVP
Skullcandy Navigator Launch Kicks Off CES
Tuesday, 1/8/2013 at 10:30PM; recording artist WALE hits the stage at 12A
PURE Nightclub – Caesar’s Palace
RSVP
CES Social Hour 1/9/13
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.The Venetian, V Bar Nightclub VEFxi Party 1/10/13
7pm to TBD
Hard Rock Hotel, Pool Villa Suite Room announced day of the event
Free RSVP
Kingston CES Mixer 1/9/13
5pm to 8:30 p.m.
Emperor’s Ballroom 1 at Caesar’s Palace
RSVP: http://new.evite.com/l/
Tweet House 1/10/13
9:30pm-11:30pm
Hyde Bellagio
Free with 2 drink tickets
10pm – Midnight
Marquee at the Cosmopolitan, Library Bar Official CES Closing Party 1/11/13 10pm – TBD Tao Nightclub at The Venetian Las Vegas
Looking to order a new batch of business cards? You’ll need them for the super networking that’ll take place while in Vegas. Why not get a new batch for free courtesy of Moo.com?
Free Moo MiniCards and Coffee 1/9/13
10am-2pm
Cafe Presse in the Venetian
Order by 11:59 December 30th and you can pick up your free cards and coffee at the Venetian
Free for pick up $4 for shipping
Not only are they free Moo cards but they’re limited edition CES Moo cards that say “We met in Vegas”. Having business cards made just for conventions is a networking tactic that we love to do. Here’s your chance to try it out for free! The extra context about what event you met helps you stick out when people organize all of the cards they have gathered.
Stay tuned for the latest CES events and more right here on DivasandDorks.com
Instagram’s New Changes Are Causing Some Users To Say Buh-Bye!
December 18th, 2012 by ChristenAre you on Instagram? You may want to re-think your decision after reading this…
Instagram has just released a few new updates that’ll be taking affect next year in January. (Via Instagram) ”We’re making some improvements and updating our Privacy Policy & Terms of Service. Read more about our changes.” < — Chances are, you’ve seen this message, but didn’t investigate what those changes mean to you and your Instagram account. Discover why these “improvements” are causing some Instagram users to say bye-bye for good.
1. Your data will be used for ads. Ads are coming to Instagram. This isn’t a surprise. However, the new terms outline the fact the ads will use your data, photos and even the metadata (read: geo-location data), for targeting purposes. As The Social Times says, “Get ready for some ads starring your friends and you.” In fact, your data may be used as a way to endorse sponsored content or promotions. This part is described in the Rights section of the new terms. IT GETS WORSE. Ads may not be marked clearly. You may not even know that ads are ads. (new Instagram Rights section says: ”You acknowledge that we may not always identify paid services, sponsored content, or commercial communications as such.”)
“Wait a minute… Instagram ads will suck up my data…AND I MAY NOT EVEN KNOW WHICH UNIDENTIFIABLE ADS ARE RESPONSIBLE?”
2. Instagram can use your photos. You own the content you post, but Instagram can use any of it without any issues. The Rights section says specifically: ”you hereby grant to Instagram a non-exclusive, fully paid and royalty-free, transferable, sub-licensable, worldwide license to use the Content that you post.”
“How did my picture get used in this ad? I’ve never used viagra in my life! – What if my friends see this!?”
3. Be aware of your responsibility when you post new photos. You are responsible for any issues involving content you post, not Instagram. Instagram does not have any obligation to prescreen, monitor, edit, or remove any Content. If your Content violates these Terms of Use, you may bear legal responsibility for that Content.
“Wait, what happened to my photo!? I just uploaded it yesterday and now it’s gone!”
4. Backup your photos. You might want to back up your photos periodically. There’s no guarantee they’ll always be there. As the new Rights section writes: Instagram is not a backup service and you agree that you will not rely on the Service for the purposes of Content backup or storage. Instagram will not be liable to you for any modification, suspension, or discontinuation of the Services, or the loss of any Content.
Have you begun weighing the pros and cons of Instagram’s new terms of service? Is Instagram right for using your photos, data plans and more in exchange for you using it’s service? Are you thinking about quitting Instagram and using other photo sharing apps like Flickr instead? Share below…
@Twitter -VS- @Instagram… And How To Succeed With Photo Social Sharing No Matter What
December 12th, 2012 by Christen
Now that the latest move in the social media gauntlet has been revealed – Instagram has disabled Twitter’s ability to properly display your images in Twitter’s feed, WHAT’S NEXT NOW? It’s very clear that the battle between social media giants, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook isn’t going anywhere soon and you can more than likely expect more “integration errors” in the coming months. This could easily become a social media nightmare for those who rely on using these outlets on a daily (sometimes even hourly) basis. But, you don’t have to let the social media squabbling affect your ability to be great! Discover these tips, that’ll keep your Twitter-gram game tight no matter what!
Q: With all these new sharing changes, how in the world do I keep up with easy social sharing?
A: Master the use of each social media platform (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram) SEPARATELY!
The New Twitter: Twitter has unveiled their very own photo filters that users can access after updating the app on their mobiles. Thanks to their photo filter partner Aviary, there are 8 available filters along with cropping tools and auto-enhancing features for Twitter users. Learn how quickly you can enhance your photos without leaving your Twitter app below…
The Face of Facebook: Use Facebook to share your fantastically-filtered photos. To do this, you can manually upload Instagrams to your Timeline or automatically sync up your Instagram account to your Facebook so all your Instagram activity will show up on your Timeline and News Feed.
Become A Facebook Fan! Facebook.com/DivasandDorks
Instagram is IN: As one of the newest and fastest growing photo-sharing platforms to date, the buzz and excitement is still growing strong with Instagram. Use it to your advantage by promoting your online Instagram page and growing your photo followers manually. If pictures are worth a thousand words, there’s no way that Facebook and Twitter can compete with what you have to photogenically say!
Check us out on Instagram.com/DivasandDorks
It’s clear that these social media giants, won’t be playing nice in the sandbox anytime soon. For now, it’s best that you learn to utilize their best features separately and that way, no matter what improvements or changes happen next – YOU STILL WIN!
Have you tried out the new photo filters on Twitter? Are you still a die-hard Facebook fan? What would make you leave any of these social platforms for good. Share below…
Tech The Halls With The Latest Holiday Gadget Trends This Season!
December 11th, 2012 by Christen
Looking for which tech toys will win your family over this holiday season? Verizon polled over 10,000 consumers to see what’s on everyone’s holiday tech wish list. Check out what Verizon discovered and how you can tech the halls with the latest holiday gadget trends this season!
Source: verizonwireless.com via Verizon Wireless on Pinterest
Instagram Photos
