Mobility Celebrating Convergence

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NOVEMBER 2012

Celebrating

Convergence

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Vol. 9

Issue # 6

Smart Accessories for

SMARTPHONES

Trends in Convergence

Smart Retailers thriving on Smartphones MOBILITY

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Mobility Analysis

Apple iPhone 5 vs. Smasung Galaxy SIII www.mobilityindia.com

Mobility Review

WickedLead Wammy Ethos (4GB)

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MOBILITY

Content

Mobility Voice

2

Mobility News

3

Vihaan Networks Showcases Defense Solutions...

Handygo launches mobile ‘Gadget Guide’.....

Nokia redefines digital map landscape by....

Tata DoCoMo's Presents Exclusive Diwali Offers Defenx Innovates New Channel Plan for Eastern....

Alcatel-Lucent enables Telstra to boost mobile....

Verizon intros Managed UC & C for Microsoft Lync Ring in the festive season with Norton!

DataWind’s Aakash 2 launched by President of ....

ZEN Ultra Tab A900-Exclusively launched on.....

12

Mobility Interview

Zen Mobile Presents Zen UltraTab A900 18

Trends in Convergence

Blackberry - Consumer offer Vdopia appoints Shivam Srivastava as Director....

Sanpdeal launhces the Sony Xperia J - big screen...

Fujezone launches a 5 point multi touch Tablet...

Nokia announces Operator tie-ups with Idea, .....

India's Tablet market to grow 40%, to cross 1.6 mn...

Narain Karthikeyan associates with mobile brand....

HTC unveils HTC Desire X Karbonn Mobiles Unveils Smart A21 and A9+ Mitashi’s PLAY is a Real Play-cum-Workstation Beam Money Presents Cash-on-Delivery mobile....

Nokia Unfurls Lumia 510 Plantech's Service M Pack offers extended warranty

Smart Retailers Thriving On Smartphones

Smart Mobility

14

Demystifying India's WiFi

COVER STORY

20

Mobility Analysis

Apple iPhone 5 vs. Samsung Galaxy SIII

22

Mobility Review

Smart Accessories for Smartphones MOBILITY

Mobility nov2012.indd 1

WickedLeak Wammy Ethos (4 GB)...

Spice Tabj Mi-720 - Feature Rich Tab LAVA E Tab Z7H - The Cool Tablet Samsung Galaxy Note 800 (GT-N9000)...

Sony Xperia go - The Sleek Choice Nokia Asha 305 - The Budget Phone Spice Stellar Horizon Mi-500—King of Mobility Sony Xperia SL — Quality meets Substance

www.mobilityindia.com

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November 2012 | 1

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Mobility News

Editorial Front Editor Chief Editor Asst. Editor

: Swapan Roy : Manoj Jha : E.J. Jawahardatham

Design Desk Art Director

:

Anit Kumar

Acct. & Finance Finance

:

Sandip Sarkar

Marketing & Sales Marketing Manager : Marketing Executives :

Circulation Manager : Production :

System Manager :

Tridip Dey Pratap Biswas Tenzin Kunkey S. Dutt Raj Kumar P. Biswas Ashish Ghosh Ashok Paul Ajay Biswas

H.O.: Delhi / Editorial Office Roy Mediative S-39, 1st Floor, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-II, New Delhi-110020 (INDIA) Mob: 09810380882, 09811346846 Ph: 91-11-41602841, 65683896, 40536384-87 Redg.Off.: 38-B / 56 Block, C. R. Park, New Delhi-110019 (India).

Branch Office: Mumbai: E-mail: roy@ mobilityindia.com Kolkata: 105/12B, Dum Dum Road, Sil Colony, Kolkata-74 Contact: 09330922965; 09903392620 E-mail : roy@ mobilityindia.com Orissa: Krushna Nagar, 5th Lane, Lalji Palli, Berhampur-760008 (Orissa) (India) Contact : Raj Kumar-09338410809

VOICE Television Loosing out to Smartphones!

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nbelievable as it may seem for the older generations, but it is true that in today’s scenario many Indians would rather give up their television time than leave their smartphones idle. At least, that's what a study by internet giant Google and research agency IPSOS has found.

The Google-IPSOS study, conducted across 40 countries, shows that compared to mature smartphone markets such as the US, UK and Germany, where less than 27 per cent of the people are willing to give up television time for smartphones, in India, a whopping 49 per cent is ready to do so.

The usage pattern and loyalty behaviour of the users also reveal that 58 per cent of women found their smartphones more entertaining than television.

Additionally, women use smartphones to connect with friends over social networks, get information on where to hang out, and shop online. More than 55 per cent of males use their smartphones to watch videos.

The total number of smartphone users in India is estimated to be 27 million, according to Nielsen Informate Mobile Insights. In addition to the above, 21 per cent of urban Indian kids and tweens mirror the mobile internet services usage of their older counterparts. Exiting times ahead for smartphone makers.

Email : info@mobilityindia.com ncn_reporter@yahoo.com Mobility monthly News Paper, Printed, Published & Owned by Swapan Roy at 38-B / 56 Block, C. R. Park, New Delhi-110019 (India).

Swapan Roy

Printed at Pushpak Printer, C-96, Okhla Industrial Area-I, New Delhi-20. Retail selling price of News Paper Rs. 20/-. Annual subscription Rs. 240.

Editor : edit@mobilityindia.com roy@ mobilityindia.com Marketing : tridip@mobilityindia.com marketing@mobilityindia.com Info : info@mobilityindia.com Subscribe : subscription@ mobilityindia.com Web : www.mobilityindia.com 2 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 2

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Mobility News

Vihaan Networks Showcases Defense Solutions at Defcom India 2012 The company has showcased its latest defense focused solutions at the two day event in Delhi

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urgaon based Vihaan Networks Limited, a telecom equipment solutions focused company participated at Defcom India 2012 between November 8th and November 9th, 2012 and showcased on its defense focused products and solutions at the event. One of the early starters of telecom manufacturing in India, VNL has been focusing towards indigenously developed solutions for Defense and Homeland Security.

As part of this participation, VNL displayed defense focused solutions such as - Rapidly deployable GSM communication and broadband solutions, Point to Point and Point to Multipoint radios for high capacity data links in Licensed and Unlicensed bands, unattended ground sensors and command system and secure mobile communications for tactical operations for military.

Explaining about the product range that VNL offers

to the defense segment, Anuradha Gupta, VP (Defense and Special Projects Solutions), VNL, said that VNL is quite happy with the response that it has received from this event.

“Defense is one of the big focus areas for us and we firmly believe that with our expertise in Indian manufacturing, we are in ideal Mr Rajiv Mehrotra Chairman & CEO VNL, explaining integrated Communication and Surveillance solution position to for tough terrain to Chief of Army Staff Gen. Bikram Singh, Signal Officer in Chief ( SO-in-C) Lt Gen SP serve the specific Kochar and DG Infantry, Maj Gen J S Bajwa needs of defense telecommunications group for of innovations on display segment,” she explained. over 35 years. Driving indigenous at Defcom India have been VNL is a member of cooperation effort to address developed in consultation with Shyam – India’s diversified India’s security needs, a number the defense segment of India.

Handygo launches mobile ‘Gadget Guide’ exclusively for Airtel -Airtel mobile customers can now easily learn all about the latest gadgets from tech guru Rajiv Makhni himself

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andygo Technologies Pvt. Ltd, India’s leading Value Added Services (VAS) provider, announced the launch of ‘Gadget Guide’- the country’s first ever mobile based gadget update service on Airtel. Powered with content by India’s tech guru, Rajiv Makhni, the service will be available exclusively to Airtel mobile customers and will empower them with gadget updates and reviews via SMS and videos on WAP. Gadget lovers can now learn all about the new gadget launches and reach out to their favorite tech idol with just a few clicks.

Commenting on the launch a senior official from Bharti Airtel said “At Airtel, it’s been our constant endeavor to offer innovative and life enriching services to our customers. In line with this, today as gadgets have MOBILITY

Mobility nov2012.indd 3

Mr Rajiv Makhni- India’s Tech Guru

become an indispensible part of our customer’s lives, we look forward to offering this service providing a one stop guide on

gadgets to our customers on their fingertips.”

Commenting on the launch Mr Rajiv MakhniIndia’s Tech Guru said, “Technology is fascinating and it’s empowering.

But most importantly, tech is also something that everybody wants to know more about.

In a World where New Mobile Phones, Tablets, Notebooks Cameras and other Gadgets are released at a bewildering pace - the consumer is excited but confused.

This is my attempt to bring to people what has never been done before. A very honest, simple, easy to understand and credible source of everything, the World of Tech has to offer. Now users can get

www.mobilityindia.com

direct Knowledge, Information, Buying advice, Reviews and Opinion - Straight from Me. My Quest it to make people aware of the greatest and the best in Tech and avoid the mediocre and the average! ” The service would update customers with reviews and news on new gadget launches via SMS and provide links to news videos that can be accessed on WAP. Airtel mobile customers can subscribe to the service at an affordable price of INR 10/- for 7 days by messaging SUB GG to 55678.

The WAP page content can be accessed at INR. 3/-. Subscribers will get two SMS and one video per day detailing the gadgets.

On the WAP platform handygo will profile the latest device that is being launched or is to be launched in the future.

November 2012 | 3

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Mobility News

Nokia redefines digital map landscape by introducing 'HERE'

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okia introduced HERE, the first location cloud to deliver the world's best maps and location experiences across multiple screens and operating systems. With the new brand, HERE, Nokia aims to inspire a new generation of location services and devices that make the mobile experience more personally significant for people everywhere.

"People want great maps, and with HERE we can bring together Nokia's location offering to deliver people a better way to explore, discover and share their world," said Nokia President and CEO Stephen Elop.

"Additionally, with HERE we can extend our 20 years of location expertise to new devices and operating systems that reach beyond Nokia. As a result, we believe that more people benefit from and contribute to our leading mapping and location service."

Pushing location beyond Nokia To further extend its location services, Nokia is launching a maps application for iOS under

the HERE brand. Based on HTML5, it will include offline capabilities, voice-guided walk navigation, and public transport directions. The application is scheduled to be available for free download from Apple's App Store in the coming weeks.

Nokia further announced a strategic partnership with Mozilla to bring new location experiences to the Firefox OS. Nokia plans to debut a mobile Web version of HERE Maps for the new Firefox OS next year. The companies are working together to give people the best mapping experience on Firefox OS. "Mozilla is a leader in HTML5, building the Web as a platform for developing compelling applications, and location is a key part of that platform," said Jay Sullivan, Mozilla Vice President of Products. "We are excited to work with Nokia as the combination of Firefox OS and HERE's location platform provides rich possibilities for mobile application developers to create amazing experiences for users."

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Nokia also demonstrated an Android OS-based reference application and announced plans for the availability of a HERE SDK for Android OEMs in early 2013. This is aimed at enabling partners to create location-based applications for Android devices with Nokia's leading content.

"Maps are hard to get right - but location is revolutionizing how we use technology to engage with the real world," said Michael Halbherr, Executive Vice President of Location & Commerce and responsible for the HERE brand. "That's why

we have been investing and will continue to invest in building the world's most powerful location offering, one that is unlike anything in the market today."

"Establishing a new brand is the right move for Nokia in the map and location business. Nokia's assets in this space are world class.

We believe mapping and location will be increasingly important to developing next generation devices and services across a wide array of segments," said Crawford Del Prete, Executive Vice President and Head of worldwide research at IDC.

Tata DoCoMo's Presents Exclusive Diwali Offers -Stay connected with your loved ones and light up their life this Diwali with RCV 222 and RCV 250

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ata DOCOMO, the unified telecom brand of Tata Teleservices Limited (TTL), has launched RCV 222 and RCV 250 exclusively for its prepay GSM customers in this Diwali across Andhra Pradesh.

Economically priced at Rs.222 for existing Tata DoCoMo GSM prepay customers, this RCV comes with full talktime with lifetime validity and offers call rates at revolutionary 1 paise per 2 seconds to all local and STD calls for 30 days. To activate this tariff benefits, customers are requested to dial *141*651# after successful recharge of `222.

The new GSM prepay customers will also get the same benefit with FRC of `222. Local & STD first min of the day charged @ `1.5p/sec.

Whereas, RCV 250 allows 4 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 4

Tata DoCoMo GSM prepay customers to avail full talktime and endless internet upto 2 GB at just Rs.250 with every recharge. Customers would be charged at 10 paisa per 10KB post 2GB data usage.

Speaking about this exciting offer, S Ramakrishna, Chief Operating Officer, Andhra Pradesh Circle, Tata Teleservices Limited said, “Tata DOCOMO recognizes that there is a latent need to simplify mobile voice and data tariffs. These plans are yet another industry firsts and reiterates our efforts for providing great value for money for Tata Docomo customers.

Now, with these full talktime plans, we offer unparallel benefits to our customers who desire to remain connected with family and friends this Diwali.� www.mobilityindia.com

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Defenx Innovates New Channel Plan for Eastern India

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efnex, a Swiss IT security provider for home and The go green strategy of Defenx to shift the Indian security enterprises, has appointed Krishna Cell Link Pvt Ltd as market from boxes to virtual licenses has been well accepted its regional distributor for Eastern India. Defenx has come up in the market. Defenx strongly recommends all partners and with an innovative channel plan to target the mobile dealers retailers to go the virtual way and opt for virtual licenses. for the effective sales of Defenx Mobile Security solution.

Defenx has first implemented this plan in Eastern India.

Krishna Cell Link is one of the major regional distributors Krishna Cell Link will distribute in Eastern. India with a partner Defenx Mobile Security solution base of 4,500. Krishna Cell Link to its 4,500 dealers spread across is based out of Kolkata and they West Bengal, Asom, Nagaland, have their partners spread across Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura, Eastern India. The launch of the Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, campaign includes more than Sikkim, Bihar, Jharkhand and 40 dealers exclusively for West Odisha.

Bengal. The campaign will lately With its aggressive push to be spread to other states once the move the Indian market towards festival season is over. virtual licenses, Defenx has Mr Maurizio Grassi, CEO at introduced a new channel strategy Defenx Software Solutions said, of targeting the mobile dealers to "We have put our trust in Krishna sell its Mobile Security Solution Cell Link for our new strategy to the end-users. Krishna Cell planned. Krishna Cell Link has a Link will train its partner to sell strong dealer base in eastern India Defenx Security Solution to all which will help us in spreading the customers purchasing smart our brand across the region. This phones and tablets. Dealers strategy is surely going to help will show case and push Defenx Krishna Cell Link and its dealers Security solution as a value to grow with greater profit ratios addition to their customers. coming their way. We are looking Defenx is looking for RD's in for others specialized mobile other regions of India. distributors in other regions who Defenx creates and develops can tap this incredible market technologies, products and Mr Maurizio Grassi, CEO at Defenx Software Solutions opportunity." services to ensure maximum Mr Vivek Tekriwala, Director safety and high protection against any form of threat or at Krishna Cell Link said, "We are very happy to introduce the malware. It extends its products to home & small business as Swiss security brand, Defenx and its innovative strategy first in well as business & enterprise. The cutting edge technology of our region. I am very sure that this will be beneficial to both Defenx Smartphone and Tablet Security suite includes Anti- Defenx and Krishna Cell Link. We look forward to aggressively Theft, Anti-Spam and Anti-Virus. The Defenx solutions for push this model as this has a good profit ratio with no cost on companies are designed and built to work in complete safety. packaging, logistics, financials etc."

Alcatel-Lucent enables Telstra to boost mobile broadband coverage Alcatel-Lucent lightRadio Metro Cells to provide high-quality mobile data capacity for tens of thousands during the high-profile, four-day racing carnival

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lcatel-Lucent and the Australian mobile operator Telstra are working to provide race-goers at the week-long Melbourne Cup horse racing event in Melbourne fast mobile broadband coverage – thanks to the integration of Alcatel-Lucent’s lightRadio technology into Telstra’s Next G track-side network.

With as many as 100,000 people expected on peak days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, demand created by 3G-enabled devices will be extremely high as race-goers make use of their smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices to access the Internet, send videos and pictures, and access other data services.

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Telstra will augment the network with Alcatel-Lucent’s 3G lightRadio Metro Cells throughout the ‘Birdcage’ hospitality area of the Flemington racecourse in Melbourne. Metro Cells are mini base stations that can easily be deployed in busy public areas to extend coverage and capacity.

This deployment of lightRadio Metro Cells will effectively double the available wireless network capacity throughout the Birdcage area, complementing the broader www.mobilityindia.com

3G and 4G enabled Next G® network across the racecourse venue.

Max Jennings, Telstra Director of Wireless Network Engineering, said, “With the eyes of the world on the carnival, we want to provide racegoers with the same level of connectivity and access to stats, data and video that viewers can get at home watching the event on television. With AlcatelLucent’s lightRadio, we aim to provide customers with a truly integrated mobile broadband and racing experience.”

November 2012 | 5

11/27/2012 1:39:21 PM

Mobility News

Verizon Intros Managed UC & C for Microsoft Lync

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Businesses Can Now Leave UC&C Service and Infrastructure Management to Verizon -- and Focus on Promoting Greater Adoption and Productivity

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s businesses seek to increase productivity through unified communications and collaboration capabilities, they are often challenged by how to select and implement the appropriate strategy and solution. To meet this challenge, Verizon is introducing Managed UC&C for Microsoft Lync Server 2010, which enables businesses to more easily adopt advanced communications and collaboration throughout their organizations while leaving the service and infrastructure management to Verizon.

Verizon’s new offering is immediately available in the U.S. and 19 European countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the U.K. Now, large multinational enterprises can maximize business agility, increase employee productivity and equip a mobile workforce with

advanced UC&C voice and the capabilities.

The Web is essential new offering to speeding also provides the decisionadded reliability m a k i n g and performance for greater enabled by productivity.”

Verizon’s worldL a r g e class IMPACT companies management can employ platform, which the advanced now incorporates Martin Burvill, senior vice i n s t a n t Microsoft System president of global operations for m e s s a g i n g Verizon Enterprise Solutions Center 2012. and presence, “Demand for audio, video and truly integrated, enterprise-ready Web conferencing of Microsoft communications platforms Lync along with enterprise voice for information sharing and across Verizon’s expansive global collaboration is exploding on a IP network, an advanced VoIP global basis,” said Martin Burvill, platform, featuring Session senior vice president of global Initiation Protocol (SIP) with operations for Verizon Enterprise public switched telephone Solutions. “The introduction of network (PSTN) integration.

Managed UC&C for Microsoft Managed UC&C for Microsoft Lync is an important component Lync can facilitate adoption of of our overall strategy to desktop video conferencing as well advance the way businesses as promote enterprise mobility operate through more effective across mobile operating systems, engagement with employees, so mobile workers can experience customers and partners. Enabling enhanced IM/presence, singlea modern workforce to more number reach, and audio and quickly connect by using video, video conferencing support.

The new offering can be combined with Verizon SIP Trunking with managed session border controllers to create a comprehensive, endto-end UC&C infrastructure that facilitates more effective collaboration and decisionmaking.

Verizon professional consultants, working with Microsoft Corp. technology partners, can help design, deploy and integrate Microsoft Lync and supporting applications including Microsoft Active Directory, Exchange and SharePoint into a global enterprise environment.

Verizon was one of the first global service providers to offer professional services specifically designed to help organizations employ Microsoft Lync. The consulting services include workshop and strategic planning services, assessment services, architecture and design services, deployment and integration services, and unified communications applications enablement planning services.

Ring in the festive season with Norton!

This Diwali, share the festive spirit and give your loved ones the gift of security Norton Mobile Security Want to secure your personal information in case your phone is lost or stolen? Install Norton Mobile Security! Experience secure mobility with this user-friendly and affordable solution. Norton Mobile Security is ideal for people who depend on their mobile devices and are perpetually on the move. Protect your precious data on your mobile phone, even if it’s lost or stolen.

Norton Mobile Security lets you remotely lock, locate or wipe all the data on your phone. It also helps protect you from any phishing and smishing attacks. Price: `599 for 1 device (Insert local price) Norton Internet Security Are you someone who can’t imagine life without the Internet? Have the most secure 6 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 6

web experience this festive season with Norton Internet Security. Give yourself and your loved ones the joy of an unhindered surfing and browsing experience, while being seamlessly protected from online threats. Norton Internet Security provides top-ranked protection with five patented layers of protection that eliminates threats more quickly and accurately than any other technologies. Price: `1,399 for single PC; `2,999 for up to 3 PCs (Insert local price) Norton 360 Multi-Device With Norton 360 Multi-Device, this festive season, parents can enjoy complete peace of mind when their kids spend time online using their smartphones, tablets and computers. Norton 360 Multi-Device is an ideal solution that helps you secure and easily manage security on all the devices used by your family. It combines powerful PC, Mac®, and mobile device protection into a single, www.mobilityindia.com

straightforward solution, so one can safely surf, shop, share, and socialize online, no matter which device they use. Price: `3,499 for 3 devices and `4,999 for 5 devices. (Insert local price) Tips to remain safe now and forever • Select strong passwords which should be changed regularly. Passwords should include alphabets in both cases, digits and special character and be difficult to guess.

• Be wary of requests to share passwords, pin numbers or any other financial information.

• Logout of their emails and social networking websites while using a public computer or mobile device.

• Select comprehensive security software that offers protection across multiple devices and platforms and keep security simple.

MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:21 PM

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Mobility News

DataWind’s Aakash 2 launched by President of India on National Education Day

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he Honorable President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee and the Human Resources & Development (HRD) Minister, MM Pallam Raju today launched the much awaited and talked about Tablet of the nation, “Aakash 2” on the occasion of National Education Day at Vigyan Bhawan.

The Aakash 2 Tablet has been designed, developed and manufactured by DataWind Ltd. for supply to IIT Bombay under the Human Resources & Development ministry’s National Mission on Education through Information & Communication Technology (NME-ICT).

The launch was part of a two-day workshop conducted by IIT Bombay for teaching faculties in engineering colleges using remote training applications developed at IIT Bombay’s Open Source development lab. Over the last many months, IIT Bombay has developed unique and compelling applications for engineering students on the Aakash2 platform, which include 3Dmodelling, C++ programming, remote and collaborative training applications, robotic control and live assessment tools.

IIT Bombay has partnered with the Center for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), to assist with the hardware testing and logistics.

The Subrao Nilekani Chair Professor at IIT Bombay, Dr. Deepak B. Phatak, heads the project at IIT Bombay with the support of C-DAC. Professor Phatak stated “I'm not only confident, but sure that Aakash 2.0 is here to stay.” In the first phase, DataWind is to supply 100,000 units of Aakash 2 to IIT Bombay, which intends to distribute them to Engineering University and College students. NME-ICT Director, N.K.Sinha said, “We envision all 220 million students across India to be enabled by low cost Aakash devices in the coming years.”

The commercial version of the Aakash2 unit is branded as UbiSlate 7Ci, and is available for purchase on DataWind’s website. Reviews on the unit have been very strong. Feedback

from samples distributed to Indian Federal Union Ministers and State Chief Ministers has been “Very Good”, according to officials at the HRD ministry. Washington Post columnist and highly respected commentator Vivek Wadhwa said, “It has the potential of revolutionising India, putting millions of Indians on the Net instantly.” Christopher Peri, the highly influential writer for Venture Beat concluded upon his review: “I want this device”. Forbes magazine’s technology contributor Alice Truong ended her review of the device with: “World changing indeed.”

Speaking on the launch of Aakash 2, DataWind CEO, Suneet Singh Tuli said, “We wish to use technology to fight poverty with a passion. Access to computers and internet will help deliver a better quality education and level the playing field for all Indians”.

Forbes Magazine recently recognized Suneet Singh Tuli in its annual Impact 15 list of Social Entrepreneurs whose disruptive technologies is expected to be globally impactful.

“We’re not done yet. We will continue to drive pricing down and make internet devices and access affordable for all tiers of society”, said DataWind Co-Chairman and Chief Technology Officer, Raja Singh Tuli. A globally recognized inventor, Raja Singh Tuli has received over 50 patents across various technologies.

At Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, the President and the HRD Minister addressed the huge audience present and launched the most prestigious project of the Govt of India with a live demonstration of the Aakash 2 Tablet, while interacting with teachers in 240 colleges and universities across India.

ZEN Ultra Tab A900-Exclusively launched on Snapdeal.com

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napdeal.com, India’s leading online marketplace has exclusively launched the ZEN Ultra Tab A900 on its site. The 9 inch capacitive touch screen Tablet runs on Android v4.0 along with a powerful 1.5 GHz processor. It is embedded with 512 MB DDR3 and 4GB of internal memory which is expandable up to 32GB. The new ZEN Ultra Tab A900 comprises of a 1.3MP front camera along MOBILITY

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with audio and video players. It is also integrated with 5 point multitouch capacitive touch screen and map navigation support. This incredible gadget has the battery capacity of 4000mAh with 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity along with various business features.

The ZEN Ultra Tab A900 is available on Snapdeal, at an affordable price of `7,999/www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 7

11/27/2012 1:39:21 PM

Mobility News

Blackberry - Consumer offer

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s the festive period unfolds with Dusshera, Diwali, Christmas & New Year, all of us will gorge on sweets, snacks, junk foods and at the same time would like to fit into our new clothes so that we can stand out when we attend various weddings & functions.

BlackBerry gives you the freedom to do both, by announcing an alliance with Gold’s Gym that kick starts from Monday/Oct 8th.

The program is called FLIP (Fat Loss Incentive Program) Details: • All 48000 members across these 38 gyms can enroll to the program.

• He/ She is weighed & the enrollment form is filled up and the weight ticket is filed with us with a perforated copy handed back.

• Enrollment is valid from 8th Oct to 8th dec 2012 • Redemption is allowed from 1st Nov 2012 to 10th January 2013 • Every KG lost in program period entitles them to `250/- on a

• •

•

BlackBerry of choice only at BES stores.

Every KG lost for members who enroll after 8th Oct entitles them Rs 1000 cash back form the gym.

All BlackBerry Devices purchased from BES stores in 4 cities will get a `1000 voucher to be redeemed at Gold's gym.

Title sponsorship of Body Transformation

Snapdeal launches the Sony Xperia J- big screen entertainment in a stylish Android Smartphone

S

napdeal.com, India’s leading online marketplace has launched the Sony Xperia J on its site. The stylish Xperia J has a 4.0-inch (854 x 480 pixels) capacitive touch screen display and is powered by 1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. It runs on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and has a battery power of 1700mAh. The Sony Xperia J features a 5MP auto focus camera with LED flash at the back and a VGA front-facing camera for video chat. It also has an illumination alert for social media updates whenever notifications are received. The Xperia J comes with a 512MB RAM, 4GB internal storage and 32GB of expandable memory with microSD. Moreover it comes preloaded with applications such as ‘walkman’ application that provides crisp and loud sound with xLoud.

The Sony Xperia J is now available on Snapdeal, in two colours- Black and White and is priced at `16,490/8 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 8

www.mobilityindia.com

Vdopia appoints Shivam Srivastava as Director Business Development – APAC The digital advertising and video monetization player Vdopia announced the appointment of Shivam Srivastava, digital business veteran as Director Business Development - APAC operations. Prior to joining Vdopia, Mr. Srivastava held the position of Associate Vice President at leading agency, Zenith Optimedia.

Mr. Srivastava brings on board tremendous experience of Sales & Marketing with significant exposure to different markets geographically. With his cross functional exposure across brands, he is poised to blend seamlessly in to his new role.

“These are exciting times for Digital advertising, and I see Mobile & Video playing an important role in its growth,” opined Mr. Srivastava. “Video is going to create its own ecosystem in the digital space, whereas mobile will hit the tipping point because of its sheer numbers and targeting capabilities. 2013 is the year of the mobile, and I am very excited to be part of both these ecosystems.”

Fujezone launches a 5 point multi touch Tablet ‘MT-12’

F

ujezone a promising player in Tablet market has launched a new tablet MT-12 a ‘Smart Touch’ tablet offering a striking collection of multiple features, incredible looks & affordable price for almost every niche.

MT-12,Tablet is equipped with features like 7” HD Capacitive Touch screen, Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich operating system, 1.2 GHZ, A8 processor with 512MB RAM, 4GB inbuilt memory with 32GB expandable memory slot, video support for all major formats, social networking apps, messengers, pre loaded games and many more exciting features to give you value for money. It is priced at `6,199/- with a FREE Fujezone 3G Data Card which is by far the lowest price* in the industry. This tablet can be bought at any leading retail portal or through Fujezone’s distribution channel in multiple states.

MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:23 PM

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Nokia announces Operator tie-ups with Idea, Vodafone

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ith an aim to increase the penetration of Nokia Store and Nokia Music in India, the Finnish handset maker has announced two new billing tie-ups with Indian mobile operators.

First up is a tie-up with Vodafone India for Nokia Music. Vodafone India consumers using Nokia's music service on their Nokia feature phones and Nokia Asha smartphones can now easily renew their subscriptions via their Vodafone postpaid or prepaid accounts.

Renewal subscriptions for the Nokia Music Store are available for three durations viz., 7 days for `50; 30 days for Rs. 99; and 90 days for `250. Taxes and data charges are separate as applicable. With this integration, Vodafone India consumers can pay for the renewal as part of their monthly phone bills or have the amount debited from their prepaid balance.

Commenting on importance of the Nokia Music offering, Mr. Viral Oza, Director Marketing, Nokia India, said, "Music with its universal appeal plays a key role in differentiating the Nokia experience. We have a strong proposition in the Nokia Music Store and are delighted with the tremendous consumer response we are witnessing in India."

Speaking at the announcement, Sashi Shankar, Chief Marketing Officer, Idea Cellular, said "Our initiative with Nokia will enable affordable and easy access to music and entertainment based apps on the Nokia platform, in remote parts of the country where Internet is only accessible on mobile."

T

ablet sales in India are expected to cross 1.6 million units this year, a growth of 40% over last year and way above the 16% growth registered by personal computers.

Mr. Viral Oza, Director Marketing, Nokia India

The Nokia Store currently offers over 120,000 pieces of content on Nokia phones.

This includes applications, games, videos, podcasts, productivity tools, web and locationbased services among others. Globally, the Nokia Store drives more than 15 million downloads per day and India currently sees over 80 million downloads per month.

The Nokia Music Store is the largest online repository of legal digital music in India with a catalogue of over 4.5 million DRM free songs, including across 16 Indian languages, and 1.4 million song downloads a day. A range of Nokia Asha and Lumia devices come with the bundled unlimited music service subscription ranging from several months to a year.

Narain Karthikeyan associates with mobile brand Micromax

A

s the Grand Prix fever is catching up, Micromax, leading Indian handset manufacturer and one of the most exciting brands of the country announced its association with Indian Formula 1 driver Narain Karthikeyan and the HRT Formula 1 team for the 2012 Indian Grand Prix, scheduled from October 26-28 at the Buddh International Circuit.

Micromax, a home-grown brand regards this association with India’s first Formula One racing driver Karthikeyan extremely valuable. Known for boldness and metal, both brands- Micromax and Karthikeyan represent India on the global map and have tasted unprecedented success with their unconventional methods.

Rahul Sharma, Co-Founder of Micromax, said, “Being a home-grown champion, we MOBILITY

Mobility nov2012.indd 9

India’s Tablet market to grow 40%, to cross 1.6 million units in 2012-13

think Narain Karthikeyan is pride of the nation and his success perfectly aligns with our brand values. We are extremely happy to associate with him and the Micromax team would be cheering him in all his races ahead.” www.mobilityindia.com

Acco rd i n g to the apex body for information technology h a rdw a re Manufacturers Association of IT, tablets are emerging as the preferred device for entertainment Alok Bharadwaj, MAIT and content president consumption. As per MAIT, the average price for a tablet sold in India is about `24,000 and Apple's iOS, Google's Android, Blackberry lead the way in platforms. MAIT estimates that tablet market will grow to 7.3 million units by 2015-16.

"The tablet market is the new blueeyed growth opportunity in India. With the introduction of several national and international brands of tablets in India, the market is witnessing a revolution of sorts," said MAIT President Alok Bharadwaj.

According to a recent study by CMR India Research, Micromax's Funbook led the Indian tablet market last quarter with an 18% market share, followed by Samsung's Galaxy Tab at 13% and Apple's iPad at 12%.

In contrast to tablets, desktop sales grew only 11% and notebook sales grew 26% in last 12 months. In another development, MAIT announced that HCL Infosystems Chief Operating Officer JV Ramamurthy will take over as the new president. Amar Babu, managing director of Lenevo, will take over as vice president.

November 2012 | 9

11/27/2012 1:39:23 PM

Karbonn Mobiles Unveils Smart A21 and A9+

HTC unveils HTC Desire X

A

seriously entertaining, powerful and social smartphone with a state of the art camera that includes VideoPic for simultaneous image and video capture and Continuous Shooting for capturing multiple fast-paced action photos.

HTC Desire X, an affordable smartphone that delivers a state of the art camera, stunning sound and incredible processing power and speed. Tuned with HTC exclusive Beats Audio™, this device also delivers a dual-core 1GHz Qualcomm® Snapdragon S4™ processor and social features that enable you to stay better connected.

This striking design is built to withstand everyday life while remaining both slim and compact. With the inclusion of HTC Sense® and Android™ 4.0, every individual’s experience is completely personal. The impressive 4-inch super LCD WVGA screen on the HTC Desire X with increased viewing angle also means that everything will appear in vivid color and with amazing clarity.

T

Mitashi’s PLAY is a Real Play-cum-Workstation

K

arbonn Mobiles has announced the launch of its latest revolution – the ‘Duple Series’ of smartphones. Making available for the technologically a d v a n c e d c l i e n t e l e , the global conglomerate has introduced to the market, the Karbonn ‘Smart’ A21 (4.5” qHD Display, Priced at `11990-MRP)) and A9+ (4.0” Hi-Def Display, Priced at `9990MRP) powered

by Android 4.0 ‘Ice Cream Sandwich and QUALCOMM Snapdragon Dual-Core Processor. They are aimed at consumers looking for fast

processing multi-tasking capabilities, embedded with revolutionary technologies and a brilliant display output.

Kar bonn Smart A21 features an 11.4cm (4.5”) qHD multi touch capacitive touch screen powered by a 1800 mAh battery and brings other features like 3D gravity sensor, proximity sensor, light sensor, the revolutionary WiFi Direct feature, live motion pictures, a High Definition Autofocus 5.0 MP camera with advanced features like ‘Burst Mode’ & ‘Face Detection’.

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Beam Money Presents Cash-on-Delivery mobile payment system

he PLAY is the first of its kind Business Entertainment Tablet, brought to you from the house of Mitashi. Its 7-inch (18 cms) screen, 1 GHZ processor and 512MB RAM and Android Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0 make it smooth, snappy and always ready for action.

This is the ultimate workstation for dynamic and smart business associates, giving them the power to view and edit all kinds of documents on the go, but the most unique feature of the PLAY is its accessory the KB 100 Keyboard. This is a full functional keyboard that will transform your PLAY into a one of a kind workstation anywhere, anytime! This tablet truly blurs the line between work and entertainment. Price: PLAY BE 100: `6790 /- ; Keyboard KB 100: `1299/-(optional).

B

eam Money, a mobile payment system has launched Cashon-Delivery (COD) service for purchasing Beam Mobile Money.

This facility will enable customers to receive Beam Money at their doorsteps giving them the convenience to pay for anything, anytime, anywhere using their mobile on the go.

COD service has been introduced to deliver convenience right to our customers’

doorstep. COD will add a new stream of offline customers particularly the ones who either do not have credit/debit cards or Internet banking or are reluctant using the same online.

This will also give Beamers an option to gift Beam Money to others.

Furthermore, as most of customers generally spend freely on gifting and new household items but do not find time for mundane tasks like utility bill payments,

telecom, DTH recharge etc. Beam with its pan India network and COD service makes such chores easier.” said Mr. Anand Shrivastav, CMD, Beam.

This service is currently available for all customers in most of the major towns across India e.g. Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Pune, Chennai, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Vishakhapatnam with more cities being added rapidly.

Nokia Unfurls Lumia 510

N

okia announced the Nokia Lumia 510, a smart and modern entry-level smartphone.

Featuring a bright, four-inch display Nokia Lumia 510 will be available in vibrant colors, such as red, white and black. With integrated social experience, Nokia Maps & Nokia Drive and some of the finest collection of apps, therefore, becomes a perfect companion for the 10 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 10

young smartphone user.

Nokia Lumia 510 creates a robust line up of Lumia devices on the Windows Phone platform across price segments. This Windows Phone is different to other smartphone platforms thanks to Live Tiles, making it easy to see incoming messages and updates, PeopleHub, which brings together contacts and updates from across social

www.mobilityindia.com

networks into one location as well as access to Microsoft Office and Internet Explorer 9 on the mobile. The Nokia Lumia 510 will come with a 3 month unlimited Nokia Music and MixRadio offering.

Through MixRadio, consumers can stream music directly to the phone, with the ability to listen to personalized radio channels, including offline listening.

MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:27 PM

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lantech is a Service Organisation which offers Total Service Solutions to the end customers and leading corporate houses.

At a time when most of the mobile brand companies offer one year manufacturing warranty, which does not cover protection against physical /liquid damage and theft coverage, Plantech has launched Innovative Service in the MOBILE INDUSTRY called M Pack which offers extended warranty and coverage against LIQUID / ACCIDENTAL damage and THEFT. In Indian Market every month 14 million new mobile phone customers are added, with the help of this product they can totally protect their phone from LIQUID and PHYSICAL DAMAGE over and Above to avail warranty service support customers can submit their Mobile phone at Plantech Authorised Collection Centres which are available in Delhi / NCR.

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M Pack customers need not visit service centres even to avail warranty support. We promote our solution through mobile dealers network and organised mobile retail chain. At present the company has more than 300 channel partners in Delhi / NCR who are promoting this product and selling along with new mobile phones.

In the second phase the company would appoint more distributors for M Pack. It has an aggressive plan to expand the dealer network across country.

By Dec 2012 end its M Pack would be available in northern part of India, and by March M Pack will have pan India presence.

The company is looking for business partners, dealers and distributors who are involved in mobile / FMCG product categories. As far as market potential for its service is concerned, there are 14 million customers every year. There are already 150 million mobile sets in use. Even if the company could tap 1% of these users and sell its M Pack to them, that itself represents crores of rupees business.

906 , Pearls Best Heights 1,Netaji Subhash Place, Pitampura , Delhi 110034

Email :- mpackhelpline@gmail.com “Total Protection of Mobile Phones” Website :- plantechr.com

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Plantech Infrastructure & Services Ltd 906 , Pearls Best Heights 1,Netaji Subhash Place, Pitampura , Delhi 110034

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Mobility nov2012.indd 11

Contact :- 011 42455900 , 011 45597700 Email :- mpackhelpline@gmail.com Website :- plantechr.com www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 11

11/27/2012 1:39:28 PM

Mobility Interview

Zen Mobile Presents Zen UltraTab A900 Zen UltraTab A900, the latest addition to Zen Mobile’s portfolio, powered

by Android™ 4.0 and a Big 9.0” Screen with superb clarity comes at a never before price of Rs. 7999. Zen UltraTab A900 combines powerful features with unique sleek marble finish, slim design to deliver an unmatched portable and engaging entertainment experience. Mobility Magazine speaks with Deepesh Kumar, MD, Zen Mobile about the company’s product launch and its future plans.

12 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 12

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MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:30 PM

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Mobility Interview

Q) Please share some of your big milestones with us?

Zen’s key milestone launches: • M-25, India’s first (72 days) longest battery standby time phone • S-15 India’s first bar phone with track ball • S-30 India’s first 3D phone with preloaded content • Z-82 India’s first qwerty phone with analog TV • Z-90 India’s first palm size touch sceen mobilie with swivel mechanism Meeting the latest trend in the gadget industry, the new UltraTab A900 by Zen Mobile is a sleek marble finish tablet which comes with a 9-inch 5-Point multi-touch capacitive screen that gives the full blown internet and multimedia experience on 16M colours in a portable form factor.

Q) How is this product different from the rest of the competition?

In accordance with the latest technology parameters, Zen UltraTab A900 is equipped with the latest Android™ 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich platform to provide easy multitasking, rich notifications, customizable home screens, resizable widgets, deep interactivity with powerful new ways of communicating and sharing features and an unparalleled viewing experience, all without compromising on the portability of the device.

It is important to understand the tastes and pulse of the youth and I know what they want out of electronic gadgets.

Zen UltraTab A900 is an ultrafast Wi-Fi device with 3G USB dongle support. It has a host USB port and an additional micro USB port for pen drive, 3G-connectivity and lots more. The device responds instantly and accurately to every touch, drag, zoom, or twist of the fingers. The device features a 1.3MP front camera and Flash playback for a rich entertainment experience.

Q) What kind of applications are available with this product?

A complete set of applications for one go access have been preloaded on Zen’s UltraTab A900. For the youth who love chatting and interacting, the device supports social networking and chat applications like Nimbuzz and Mig 33. For gaming fanatics, ibibo – Teenpatti and Rummy are preloaded. For those who miss watching their favorite shows on television, nexGTV the app supports Live TV, Loop Channels & VOD, will be a great facility. Using Zen UltraTab A900 making online payments will become easy and quick as the device supports Paytm. Zen UltraTab A900’s inbuilt Map My India mapping software lets you explore places you never knew were there. Using Bollywood Ji, you can get the latest Bollywood gossip, Bollywood news, Bollywood movie reviews, Bollywood music reviews and Bollywood photos at a touch of a finger. You can also get the latest astrology updates from world of Bejan Daruwalla.

Q) How do you look at the trends in this market segment?

Today tablets have become a sensation not only in metros but also in smaller cities. The new 9-inch Zen UltraTab A900 is one of the top notch technological innovations from Zen Mobiles and vouches for our business principle of taking the latest technology to the masses. UltraTab A900 comes with a lot of thoughtful features and applications at a never before price of `7999. With the launch of the Zen UltraTab A900, we would again reiterate our commitment to the rapidly evolving tab market of the country, to deliver cutting edge technologies and top of the line product innovations.

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Mobility nov2012.indd 13

Q) What is the biggest USP that Zen brings to the table for the end customers?

Most vendors in the country just push the products down their channel, they care little about the end customer, but Zen cares for the end customers as much as it cares for the channel partners. We always keep in touch with the retailers and end customers. We do regular surveys and research to know what the customers and the channel partners need.

Initially, the retail business HomeShop18 will introduce the product in the market at a special price.

Q) Please share some light on your channel activities?

Zen’s channel structure is comparatively flat with only vendor-distributor-retailer whereas other companies have vertical channel structures with several levels. The taller is the structure, the lesser is the interaction with the end customers.

We have 800 distributors across the country. We map our channel district-wise. At present our presence is more in North and East Indian regions. In the next few years, we would like to focus on the South and West Indian regions. Our message to the channel partners: first focus on quality, second be on the forefront in technology and last but not the least aim to be at the top of the line.”

Other features of UltraTab A900 include 1.5 GHz processor and 512 MB DDR3 RAM that ensure high connectivity to deliver rapid mobile download speeds and reduce data transfer times. Powered add on features that give consumers instant access to various e-books, e-newspapers (multi-lingual), e-magazines and millions of songs. The device is also designed for email, instant messaging, calendar and social networking connections into a single interface. The Zen’s UltraTab A900 features a 1.3MP front camera and Flash playback for a rich entertainment experience.

Zen’s Ultratab A900 user experience is designed with a Live Panel menu that users can customize to display a variety of content on the home screen including digital pictures, favorite websites and social network feeds. In addition, the interface includes an application tray of commonly used features such as task manager, calendar and music player which can be launched while other major applications are also in use, including large file downloads and document editing, all providing a mixture of convenience and flexibility previously unheard of with tablet devices.

UltraTab's experience focuses on surprising and delighting people with its outstanding 3D home screen. A unique carousel of widgets puts a user's most important content and information at the visual center of the experience.

Zen has been in the Indian market only for 3 years, but made its presence felt by everyone. We are the first to launch TV on cell phone. We have already launched a 7-inch tablet in July this year and now we have launched 9-inch tablet with the latest features. By March 2013 we plan to launch 6 new smartphone models. In general, we do not believe in launching products in a hurry just to be there as first ones. We watch and study the market carefully and then only we take decisions which should be beneficial both to the customers and the company. Besides good quality expectations, it goes without saying that Indian customers are price-sensitive. Zen always focuses on delivering affordable products with the best possible quality particularly for the students and the middle class who look for less expensive products.”

www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 13

11/27/2012 1:39:32 PM

Cover Story

Smart Accessories fo Aftermarket Mobile Accessory Revenues to Reach $62 Billion by 2017 as Market Value Moves to Smart Accessories, Says ABI Research 14 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 14

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riven by the continued growth of smartphones, the market for mobile device accessories will grow at a 10.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2012 through 2017, resulting in annual revenues of $62 billion in 2017. According to the latest analysis from market intelligence firm ABI Research, revenues for non-smartphone accessories will decline at a 4% CAGR over the same period as fewer feature phones are sold.

Because smartphones tend to generate greater accessory revenues per device, it is believed that smartphones will drive 80% of the MOBILITY www.mobilityindia.com

11/27/2012 1:39:38 PM

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aftermarket revenues in 2017. Among the thirteen accessory product segments tracked by ABI Research, protective cases and stereo wired headsets are predicted to show the highest growth rates of 18.2% and 15.6% respectively.

ABI Research notes that mono wired headsets will show a decline in shipments of 1.3% as consumers increasingly seek accessories that will maximize the media consumption capabilities of their handsets.

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Mobility nov2012.indd 15

Accessories are increasingly becoming personalized to the user’s performance, style and preferences, which augments the mobile device experience. The design of smarter accessories to enhance the consumption of key smartphone features will enable mobile device accessory OEMs to remain competitive in this market.

Experts close to the industry are expecting this push for smarter accessories to not only drive improved design but further

www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 15

11/27/2012 1:39:41 PM

Cover Story

"Elecom - Leading Accessory from the Front" ELECOM has been leading the PC and AV accessory markets in Japan for years. The company has a subsidiary in Europe, ednet GmbH, which makes ELECOM products available to a worldwide market, including Europe, Russia and the Middle East countries. ELECOM also has an expanding business in Asian countries through subsidiaries and sales partners. Mobility Magazine talks with Manjul Agrawal, Director, Elecom India Private Limited about the compoany’s present and future plans for the region.

Q) How do you look at the growing opportunity in the tablet accessory segment of India?

ELECOM: The Indian Tablet market is expected to touch 1.6 Million units in the current Fiscal Year and poised to grow to 7.3 Million units by 2015-16 as per MAIT. Smartphones & Tablet PCs are gradually emerging as the preferred mode for Internet Access, Social Networking and Multimedia Interaction. With this rapid adoption and proliferation of Tablets, we are also projecting an upward trajectory trend in the Tablet Accessory space in India. ELECOM has enjoyed tremendous success in the Tablet Accessory segment in developed markets like Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, and we are looking forward to replicate this in India as well.

Accessories & Peripherals are still perceived widely as a cheap add-on to the Device, however many consumers overlook the fact that low quality accessories can enhance the risk factors for a high-end / expensive Tablet. For example, a Tablet Sleeve/Case and a Screen Protective Film, not only enhance the overall look of the Device, but also provide with crucial protection against shock and environmental elements like Dust.

Another challenge is the lack of awareness of new technologies like ‘Near Field Communications’ and ‘Bluetooth 4.0’ that are being embedded in all new high-end Devices. Lack of available accessories for these technologies will limit the Device usability.

High power consumption and low battery life of these Devices is also a major issue that we foresee in this space.

Q) How big would be this market segment? And what is your market share here?

ELECOM: ELECOM enjoys the Number 1 market share in this segment in Japan and Korea. We are rapidly expanding our product portfolio, with 70% of our new products targeting Smartphones and Tablet PCs.

Q) How can these challenges be overcome?

ELECOM: It is imperative that consumers think and research before buying accessories, particularly products to enhance device protection.

Accessories & Peripherals also need to be treated as equally critical products as the Device itself, and we would like to encourage our users not to compromise on the quality of the Accessories for their expensive Tablets.

For example, a Tablet's Body and/or Screen, if damaged, cannot be easily repaired or

Q) What are some of the big challenges that lie ahead in this space?

ELECOM: One of the major challenges that we foresee is the lack of consumer awareness about the Tablet Accessories. Today, a Tablet Device demands its own ecosystem of products, just like a traditional PC, which can only be sufficed with the availability of a complete range of compatible products.

16 | November 2012

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11/27/2012 1:39:43 PM

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worse the entire device needs to be replaced. This risk can be reduced by using high quality accessories from ELECOM like our ‘Zero-Shock’ Tablet Sleeves and ‘Zero-Bubble’ Protective Films.

ELECOM prides itself in staying ahead of the technology curve, and we have recently introduced the World’s First Near Field Communications Keyboard along with a wide range of other Accessories to complete the Tablet ecosystem, and enhance the Device usage.

Again, an increase in awareness of available Accessories and enhanced usage of the Tablet devices can help overcome the challenges mentioned above.

Q) What are your product offerings in this space? Please share some of your USPs in this segment?

ELECOM: We offer a complete ecosystem of products custom built for Smartphones & Tablets, incorporating the latest available technologies. Our Product Portfolio includes Tablet Sleeves & Cases, Covers, Screen Protective Films, External Bluetooth Keyboards, Tablet Stands, Portable Battery

Chargers, and Multimedia Products like Bluetooth Earphones, Headphones & Speakers amongst others.

In addition to introducing the World’s First Near Field Communications Keyboard, we have also introduced India’s first Laser Projection ‘Virtual’ Keyboard for Android & Apple Devices.

Q) What are your plans to launch more tablet accessories in India?

ELECOM: As mentioned earlier, we are rapidly expanding our product portfolio for India, with 70% of the new products targeting Smartphones and Tablet PCs. We shall continue to introduce many ‘India-First’ products in parallel to our Japan product launches.

Our commitment to the high level of end-user satisfaction results in our unique and wide range of products with a perfect combination of smart design and cutting-edge technology, which can be seen at the ELECOM EXPERIENCE WORLD in Nehru Place, New Delhi.

maintain or grow average selling prices across the category.

Smart Wireless Accessory Market to Surpass 100m Units by 2017 Consumer Electronics, Payment Mechanisms, Fitness and Healthcare to drive demand for smart accessories Smart devices that link to the handset to carry out specific tasks will become a major new market for hardware manufacturers over the next five years opine most of the telecom experts working closely with the industry.

A market research report by Juniper forecasts that sales of app enabled devices will rise sharply to over 100 million units by 2017, from just over 10 million at the end of 2012. Services will range from payment processing to monitoring individuals’ healthcare.

Revolutionary Influence Juniper Research finds that App-enabled devices will create new business processes in several sectors by capitalising upon the smartphone’s strengths- processing power and mobility.

• For mobile payments, a smartphone payment reader can challenge more bulky POS devices through a simpler, more user-friendly service proposition. Thus allowing start-ups to take on global players like Verifone.

• In healthcare, meanwhile, app-enabled hardware for monitoring glucose levels and other vital signs are putting health decisions in the hands of the individual, thereby helping towards the adoption of mHealth by the medical establishment.

App-enabled devices are the logical next step for the smartphone ecosystem and they tend to either fill a gap in the market or improve on what is already there.

Further findings from the report include: • Fitness smart wireless accessories already have seen MOBILITY

Mobility nov2012.indd 17

substantial take-up following initiatives by global brands such as Nike and smaller start-ups such as Jawbone UP. • Major retailers are allocating shelf-space to smart wireless accessories, particularly in the US. • “Freemium” and SaaS (software as a service) business models will emerge as the market for smart wireless accessories matures.

The report finds that the market is creating opportunities for new-entrants, such as Square and iZettle in the payment market, and established players, such as the sportswear brand Nike, which has developed a range of wearable devices to monitor training sessions for the fitness sector.

www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 17

11/27/2012 1:39:43 PM

Trends in Convergence

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Mobile for Retail

Smart Retailers Thriving On Smartphones 18 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 18

www.mobilityindia.com

MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:44 PM

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Trends in Convergence

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s technological advances are helping brick and mortar retailers in reaching out to their end customers in new ways (social media and handheld device apps), mobile technology and smartphones are surely helping the retail segment grow with confidence.

Important things to consider: 1. If a retailer is aware of the product that you are likely to purchase, it will choose to stock a greater quantity of the product. In turn, those are fewer goods that a retailer is ordering from a Soup store. As retailers order less, the consumer products companies will require fewer people and machines, and that has far-reaching effects on the global economy.

2. And increasingly it is those retailers that are utilizing technology to the fullest extent possible that should be invested in. These companies will be planning their merchandise in line to consumer demand and hopefully, reaping hefty profits as prices won’t have to be chopped.

In the end, the marriage of technology and retail will be a necessary if for no reason than retailers having immense cash piles and a burning desire to allocate it to the most productive means possible. The majority of successful companies long-term will be those understanding technology’s benefits to productivity and profitability (even though investments cause a nearterm headwind to profit margins), and unleashing the power of new tools on consumers on a global basis.

Names like Wal-Mart, RelianceFresh, and BigApple etc stand prominently above the fray for their integration of the online and in-store experience.

Today’s retail executives are grappling with a highly disruptive and rapidly shifting business environment. Many retailers are struggling to drive incremental growth, and some don’t have enough capital to fund all of the initiatives they want to pursue.

Meanwhile, customer behaviors are changing profoundly—particularly due to the ways that technology is now being used as part of the shopping process.

Consumer adoption of mobile is growing at an exponential rate, and your competitors are exploiting this trend to invade the four walls of your store.

We understand that mobile devices are already a major factor in retail—but not necessarily in the way most retailers think.

According to our research and analysis, MOBILITY

Mobility nov2012.indd 19

the biggest impact of smartphones isn’t direct sales generated through the mobile channel, but rather the influence they exert over traditional in-store sales to drive in-store conversion and in-store average order size. Mobile is already having a major impact on store-based sales, and its influence is only increasing.

Smartphones to Influence $689 Billion in Retail Sales by 2016: Deloitte Deloitte defines the mobile influence factor in retail sales; Mobile impact on store sales exceeds the value of mobile commerce Smartphones currently influence 5.1 percent of annual retail store sales, translating into $159 billioni in forecasted sales for 2012, according to new Deloitte research. For the first time in the industry, the in-depth study measures the “mobile influence factor,” or impact of smartphones on in-stores sales.

The mobile influence factor captures the in-store sales driven by consumers’ store-related smartphone activity such as product research, price comparison or other mobile application use.

Deloitte anticipates mobile’s influence, based on consumers’ smartphone

Deloitte Digital conducted an in-depth survey of consumers about how they use their smartphones to shop today and their likelihood of using them in future buying decisions.

Mobile shopping accelerating among smartphone owners Smartphone adoption coupled with consumers’ propensity to use their devices for shopping also contributes to the growing mobile influence factor. As consumers buy smartphones, they are quick to tap their devices for shopping assistance, with smartphone use for storerelated shopping increasing 40 percent after the first six months of ownership, according to Deloitte’s survey. Once these consumers are on board, they consistently use their phones for 50 to 60 percent of their store shopping trips, depending on the store category.

The mobile influence factor is strongest among younger shoppers, suggesting that as this segment ages, a retailer’s core customers will increasingly be armed with smartphones. In Deloitte’s survey, nearly 7 out of 10 smartphone owners (67 percent) between 14 and 34 years old have used their devices to shop, and 55 percent indicate their smartphones have influenced their decision to make a purchase.

use, will grow to represent 19 percent of total store sales by 2016, amounting to $689 billion in mobileinfluenced sales.

By comparison, direct mobile commerce sales will pass the $30 billion mark by that time, according to industry estimates.

Smartphone shoppers are more frequent buyers To better understand the growing impact of mobile devices on the retail sector, Deloitte’s retail & distribution practice and www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 19

11/27/2012 1:39:44 PM

Smart Mobility

Demystifying India’s WiFi

20 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 20

www.mobilityindia.com

MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:45 PM

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he appearance of better management strategies for data Smartphone adoption holds the big key to opening the single largest revenue opportunity for the operator community.

And the provision of connectivity to mobile phone users in the form of monthly integrated data plans and prepaid topups generated a lot of money for the operators. And hence, rising smartphone penetration rates and the successful attachment of data plans to those devices will grow the value of small-screen access revenues to operators.

Building small-screen access revenues is already a considerable achievement, but today’s mobile data market is arguably still in the early stages of development.

Fulfilling the industry’s future growth potential by driving smartphone and data adoption into today’s untapped customer segments will require operators to build an in-depth understanding of all aspects of customer behavior to in order to deploy sustainable and profitable future pricing models. This includes the need to understand traffic demand by application, location and time of day as well as by the user’s preferred means of access technology.

The shift away from unlimited data plans towards tiered pricing marks the first, but arguably the most important, step in the development of more advanced yieldmanagement strategies designed to get the maximum returns from underlying demand for mobile data access in the country.

The implementation of more complex pricing propositions has largely been possible because of the extensive insights operators have been able to derive from the complete visibility they enjoyed of mobile voice usage patterns.

The extent of cellular-based, smartphone-originated data demand is well understood. Numerous data points released by operators, vendors and other players have accurately measured average monthly cellular consumption on smartphones. This has typically placed average monthly data usage in the range of 100-500MB per month, depending on the country or the operator in question.

And hence, it is now clear that these cellular-only numbers have significantly understated the true level of smartphone usage by excluding Wi-Fi-based usage MOBILITY

Mobility nov2012.indd 21

from the numbers circulated within the industry. Experts close to the industry reveal that a cellular-only measurement of user demand can understate smartphone originated traffic by a factor of several multiples in the world’s most advanced Wi-Fi markets.

It is important to note that operators are acutely aware that Wi-Fi usage is well entrenched within their customers’ day-today usage behavior, but the fragmentation of Wi-Fi hot-spot networks has rendered the accurate measurement of such usage effectively an impossible task.

The implementation of networkcentric analytical tools based upon deeppacket inspection engines means that a smartphone can be monitored as it moves around a cellular network, but, as soon as the smartphone connects to a Wi-Fi access point, it effectively “goes dark” and all subsequent usage becomes invisible to the operator.

The expansion of Wi-Fi into hundreds of millions of private homes and offices around the world, the deployment of more

seven in 10 of the sampled users also use Wi-Fi to enable smartphone data usage.

While the smartphone users of these two markets are undoubtedly early adopters, it is clear that Wi-Fi will play a critical role in the lives of the smartphone generations of tomorrow in those markets.

It is therefore no surprise that some of the world’s largest and most ambitious carrier deployments of public Wi-Fi networks are taking place in China, India, Brazil and other emerging markets.

And this leads to many important conclusions, but uppermost must be the recognition that operators do not enjoy anything close to complete visibility on the usage of key applications on smartphones by their customers. More positively, this data implies that the total aggregated demand for data consumption on smartphones is vast and the potential addressable market for operators is bigger than previously estimated.

Irrespective of the access technology used, each megabyte of data consumed represents an opportunity that can be

than one million public Wi-Fi hot spots by the end of 2011 and the growth of a vast and mature ecosystem built of thousands of devices has established Wi-Fi as the most heavily-used wireless technology in the world in terms of the volume of data transmitted.

The low cost of integrating Wi-Fi chipsets has made it a must-have feature in every smartphone that comes to market and a rapidly-growing number of datacentric feature phones. That Wi-Fi is an integral form of smartphone connectivity is well understood, but the extent of active Wi-Fi adoption among smartphone users has remained uncertain.

In the global developed markets, more than 90% of smartphone users also use Wi-Fi as a means of data connectivity. A wider examination of Wi-Fi adoption on a country-by-country basis highlights that this trend is truly global. Even in the major emerging markets of China and India,

turned into revenue with the right value proposition.

Most importantly today, there is wide variation in the distribution of smartphoneoriginated traffic across cellular and Wi-Fi networks, both across countries, but also across individual operators within those countries. There are a variety of factors that have an impact on the share of traffic between Wi-Fi and cellular, but the most important are the level of development of Wi-Fi in terms of private and public hotspot density, the maturity of carrier Wi-Fi strategies, the quality of experience on cellular networks and, finally, the pricing structure of mobile data services.

In countries that benchmark high in terms of in-home Wi-Fi penetration and where mobile operators have highlyevolved carrier Wi-Fi strategies, cellular usage on smartphones is dwarfed by WiFi. Moving forward, WiFi is surely going to gain ground in India as well as globally.

www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 21

11/27/2012 1:39:45 PM

Mobility Analysis

Smart-Phone Wars

Apple iPhone 5 vs. Samsung Gala

Is Apple‘s iPhone 5 strong enouh to fend off the challenge from the big, bold muscle hone from Samsung?

22 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 22

www.mobilityindia.com

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11/27/2012 1:39:45 PM

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Mobility Analysis

The iPhone 5 is the new standardbearer for US based Apple Inc, the company that invented among many innovations, the modern smartphone, but Android smartphones have made great leaps in the last year. The Korean electronics major, Samsung Galaxy S III is a great Android device, and it's the only non-Apple smartphone to score that highly, globally.

They're very different smartphones.

The iPhone 5 is the skinny model, whereas the Galaxy S III has a heavy personality.

Compared to the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, the iPhone 5 isn't that dramatic of an upgrade, whereas the Galaxy S III is heads and shoulders above the Android offerings of two years ago.

On the other hand, the iPhone has been way, way ahead of Android, so Android smartphones needed big improvements to catch up. Apple has had the luxury of solidifying its offerings after making its great leap years ago.

Unless you're already committed to either the Apple cult or the Android cult, the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S III are the two smartphones you're likely comparing if you're aiming for the top of the line and need to be meet the security requirements of most businesses.

ung Galaxy SIII

e from the big, bold Android

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Hardware The big changes in the iPhone 5 revolve around its hardware, since its iOS 6 operating system is also a free upgrade for iPhone 3G S, iPhone 4, and iPhone 4S owners.

What's new is a taller, 4.0-inch screen -- 640 by 1,336 pixels versus the previous 640 by 1,024 -- that basically adds a fifth icon row and lets you watch 16:9 widescreen movies at a larger size than the previous iPhones could. The iPhone 5's all-black and all-white models simply have less character than their steel-banded predecessors.

The Galaxy S III has an even bigger screen (4.8 inches, providing 720 by 1,280 larger pixels) -- one that dominates the curved and coolly embellished plastic bezel. Its design is also simple, but unlike the iPhone 5, it's very bold. An iPhone 5 has the vacant feel of a runway model's facial expression, whereas the S III is the life of the party. The S III's screen is also brighter, its colors more vibrant. The iPhone 5's screen has a yellowish colorcast that makes whites look dingy when its brightness is set to medium or low.

The S III's larger size comes with a price: It's hard to use one-handed. Not only does www.mobilityindia.com

iPhone 5 fit better in your hand, but its screen is accessible by your thumb. For the S III, only the Hulk's hand is big enough for the thumb to reach the full screen.

The iPhone 5 sports a faster processor -- Apple's own A6 -- compared to the previous iPhone, as well as faster graphics processing. The speed advantage is hard to notice in practice, but various benchmarks show there is a difference. The S III also has a beefy processor and graphics subsystem, but it's hard to compare to the iPhone 5, given that the applications are different.

The bottom line: Both are fast enough.

The iPhone 5 camera's optics have also been improved, resulting in finer detail, especially in low-light conditions. But the new lens has apparently caused lens flares under some circumstances. The S III's camera is unremarkable. Both are fine for most snapshots, but if you want your smartphone to replace your digital camera, you'll prefer the iPhone 5.

The iPhone 5's speakers are more powerful than those in previous models, so audio is much louder for movies and music. But for some reason, alert sounds on the iPhone 5 are harder to hear than on an iPhone 4 in a noisy store, restaurant, or bus.

The iPhone 4 didn't have this volume difference, and I could hear its tones in the same places I couldn't hear the iPhone 5's.

The Galaxy S III's speakers are as loud as the iPhone 5's, but its sound is tinnier and less rich than the iPhone 5's.

The iPhone’s new aluminum back gets very warm when you're using one of the radios and after you charge it -- similar to how the third-gen iPad heats up more than the iPad 2 -- but not annoyingly so.

It also gets cold easily. The glass-backed iPhones had less temperature variation.

The Galaxy S III's plastic case is pleasant enough, though not as nice as either the old iPhone's glass or the new iPhone's aluminum.

However, the most meaningful hardware change is the support for LTE 4G cellular networks. Much of the world is only now starting to deploy LTE, so most people will get no immediate benefit from this technology.

But you will notice faster downloads and application updates where it's available -usually. The speed can be two to three times that of 3G networks in well-served areas.

Whether it is Apple’s iPhone or Samsung’s Galaxy S III, both these smartphones are quite futuristic in terms of [providing better technology and application support and this is what is set to take them together towards profiting times.

November 2012 | 23

11/27/2012 1:39:45 PM

Mobility Personality

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The t Gingerbrea (Over The bothered t thrown in 24 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 24

www.mobilityindia.com

MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:47 PM

MOBILITY

MOBILITY

Mobility Review

WickedLeak Wammy Ethos (4 GB) – Designed to Succeed Pros:

Cons:

• Sleek; Full phone functionality; • 3G support • HDMI-Out

• meager sound quality; •Limited viewing angles

W

ammy Ethos, comes with its full phone functionality. This certainly gives it an edge over the competition. The retail package is quite a standard affair: Charger, earphones, and mini-USB and USB OTG cables. But the Wammy Ethos is undoubtedly one of the better-looking budget tablets around.

The tablet also feels sturdy. Overall, Wickedleak has done a great job here in terms of the unique design and build quality. The 7" capacitive touchscreen has pixel dimensions of 800x480. The display is reasonably bright, and offers a decent contrast ratio. That said, it's still no match for the NXG Xtab A 10 Plus' pixel-packed IPS panel.

The tablet is powered by a 1.2 GHz CPU coupled with 512 MB of RAM. Other specs include: • 7" capacitive multi-touch screen with 800x480 pixels, 16:9 ratio.

• Quad-band GSM (850 / 900 / 1800 /1900 MHz), supports 3G. • Wi-Fi with hotspot capability, Bluetooth.

• Mini-HDMI port, MiniUSB 2.0 with OTG support, 3.5 mm jack.

• 4 GB internal storage (2 GB user available), 32 GB microSD card slot.

• 1.3 mp front camera.

UI And Performance The Wammy Ethos runs Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) out of the box. The interface is exactly similar to what we've seen on the Wammy 7 tablet. Thankfully, the manufacturer hasn't tried get "creative" here: you get a refreshingly clean interface. The tablet does a commendable job of handling ICS. There is a nominal lag, but then that's fairly common among budget tablets.

The tablet's USP, like I said, is the full phone functionality. I was pleased to note that it works as claimed. To avoid the embarrassment of holding a 7" tablet near your ear, you'd do well to get yourself a Bluetooth headset. Like every other Android tablet, the Ethos has a front facing camera for video chat. 3G connectivity allows you to browse the web while travelling.

Spice Tab Mi-720 – Feature Rich Tab

T

he retail box of this product packs in a tablet, USB cable, charger, and earphones. The manufacturer has also provided a complimentary leather cover. The device measures 7.9" (l) x 4.6" (w) x 0.5" (d), and at 485 grammes, it's heavier than the competition. It looks and feels similar to the Reliance 3G Tab, save for the glossy plastic at the back. Although I'm not expecting great build quality at this price point, the device creaks when pressed around the corners, which isn't a good sign at all.

The 7" touchscreen has pixel dimensions of 800x480.

The screen's brightness is poor, and colours look dull. It's also the most reflective display I've ever seen on a tablet, so much so that it was near impossible to take head-on photos without capturing my reflection on the screen. Needless to say, it works like a mirror under sunlight. What's worse is that viewing angles are very limited, and a scratch-resistant coating is absent.

The tablet is powered by an 800 MHz CPU and Adreno 200 GPU. The official website claims 2 GB of RAM, but my guess is that it's a typo and they meant 256 MB. Other specs include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, a 2 MP rear and front VGA camera, 3.5 mm jack, microSD card slot, and a 4200 mAh battery.

The tablet runs Android 2.2 (Froyo) instead of Gingerbread, which is disappointing. Additionally, the OTA (Over The Air) update was nowhere to be found. Spice hasn't bothered to customise the stock Android installation, but has thrown in a bunch of pre-installed apps to compensate for it.

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Pros:

Cons:

• Well-priced; Works as a mobile phone too

• Poor display; Uninspiring multimedia performance

While a few apps, such as ES File Explorer, Documents To Go, and Nimbuzz are really useful, others like ibibo and naukri are just icons with embedded website links.

www.mobilityindia.com

November 2012 | 25

11/27/2012 1:39:49 PM

Mobility Review

LAVA E Tab Z7H---The Cool Tablet Pros:

Cons:

•Looks •Built •Price

•Low brightness display

C

omparing other 7-inch tablets in a similar price range, the LAVA E Tab seems to be made of a superior build quality and sports a good look. The shell is rugged and firm and has a completely mattfinished exterior, promising a longer lasting aesthetics.

The front panel features an inlaid 7-inch display panel, a front facing VGA camera and a speaker grille on the left side. The front panel has no capacitive or physical buttons for Home, Back or Search as they are featured in the Operating System itself using the display panel.

The rear panel has absolutely nothing except for a sober company logo and a product model number, and

this makes the tablet look very neat. A volume rocker, Home and Power buttons are placed on the top. The right side features the power jack and audio jack, the microSD card slot and a micro USB PC interface that doubles as a USB host when used along with the bundled micro USB host cable. The tablet is 11.9 mm thick and weighs 350 grams, but still feels lighter and less bulky than most other tablets.

The E Tab from LAVA does not sport any powerful hardware, but still functions very smoothly. It is built using a 1.2GHz Cortex-A8 processor, but surprisingly, every system information utility we used on it reported the tablet being clocked at 1008MHz instead of 1200MHz. It is supported by 512MB of RAM and a MALI-400 GPU. The Operating System is Android ICS 4.0.3 and the internal storage is 4GB, of which around 2GB is reserved for the ROM and internal app installation and the rest is free for the user to store his or her data. This storage can be expanded via a microSD card to a maximum of 32GB. The 7-inch display, even though it features a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, gives out more vibrant and crisper picture quality as compared to earlier tablets in the same price bracket.

Samsung Galaxy Note 800 (GT-N8000) – Greatness Unplugged

T

he Galaxy Note 800 looks nothing like the iPad. While each Cons: has its own fundamental USPs and design forms, we’re not Pros: here to compare just yet. The Note 800 is a sleek, polished, • Old Design professional looking device that, in spite of its large size, is quite • Sound Quality lightweight at 600g and easy to manage.

• Excellent connectivity It is surely one of the thinnest devices yet, at just 8.9mm in depth. The 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen features a 1280 x 800 • Battery backup pixel resolution that doesn’t even begin flaps for the card slots have a really good to compare to the New iPad’s Retina feel to them, which shows just how much Display. It still is, nevertheless, quite attention to detail the company has taken. a vibrant display with 16 million The Power/screen lock, volume rocker 3.5 colours squeezing out their best. mm handsfree socket are also placed here.

The stereo speakers placed on What sets the Galaxy Note 800 apart either side of the display focus the from its peers is the little IR sensor at the audio directly at you, making for a top. This coupled with a preloaded app better experience if you’re watching called Smart Remote will let you connect a video without headphones. At the to most HDTVs for remote access, making bottom of the device is Samsung’s your tablet a fully functional remote proprietary USB/Charging port, control. A 5 megapixel camera with an which we have to admit, still looks LED flash is placed at the rear with a similar to Apple’s 30-pin connector. secondary 1.9 megapixel front facing A microphone is also located camera placed just above the display. here at the bottom in case you need Samsung has gone with its TouchWiz to make those absolutely urgent calls Nature UI for the Note 800, so if you’ve and can’t quite reach your headset. used the Galaxy S III, then you’ll be very Speaking of calls, the Note 800 has a microSIM card slot along familiar with the interface. With Android 4.0.4 under the hood, the with a microSD card slot on the top to supplement the onboard interface is quick and painless. There’s very little visible lag when switching storage of either 8GB, 16GB or 32GD with up to 32GB more. The between home screens or apps; everything is extremely responsive.

26 | November 2012

Mobility nov2012.indd 26

www.mobilityindia.com

MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:50 PM

Pros:

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Mobility Review

Sony Xperia go – The Sleek Choice Pros:

Cons:

• Water- and dust-proof; Sturdy build; Sleek design; Impressive sound quality; Smooth UI

• Weak earpiece; no frontfacing camera

T

he retail box of Xperia comes with the phone, charger with detachable USB cable, and earphones. The handset measures 4.4" (l) x 2.4" (w) x 0.4" (9.8 mm) (d), and tips the scales at 110 grams.

The Xperia go is an IP67 (Ingress Protection 67) compliant phone.

The number 6 refers to total protection against dust particles, and "7" refers to the gadget's ability to withstand water immersion (max. 1 metre).

I've verified Sony's claim, and the Xperia go is indeed a waterproof phone. It's worth mentioning that the touchscreen is responsive even when it's wet.

The phone is rugged, and manages to look trendy too. In fact, it looks like any other modern smartphone, which is big

plus for a phone labelled "tough".

The Xperia go's back panel is extremely sturdy, and all the ports are sealed by plastic flaps. The handset's 3.5" screen with Mobile BRAVIA, with pixel dimensions of 320x480, is protected by scratch-resistant mineral glass.

The Xperia go is powered by a 1 GHz dual-core CPU, and has 512 MB of RAM. It sports a 5 mp camera with LED flash. Here's are the detailed specs: •1 GHz NovaThor U8500 dual-core Cortex-A9 CPU, ARM Mali-400 GPU, 512 MB RAM. •Quad-band GSM (850, 900, 1800, 1900 Mhz); Dual-band 3G (900, 2100 MHz).

•5 megapixel auto-focus camera with LED flash, 16x digital zoom, Face detection and Smile detection, Fast Capture; No front-facing camera.

•FM radio with RDS, Micro-USB 2.0, 3.5 mm jack.

•Supported Video: 3GPP, MP4, MKV, AVI. •Supported Audio: MP3, 3GPP, MP4, SMF, WAV, OGG. •Available Colours: Black, White, Yellow.

The Xperia go features Sony's custom UI on top of Android 2.3 (Gingerbread). The interface is the same as what we've been seeing on the latest Xperia series handsets. Thanks to a dual-core CPU, the phone runs smooth, except when you have too many apps open in the background. Sony has gone quite some way to make this phone a pleasure to use; the upcoming ICS update will probably make things even better.

Nokia Asha 305 – The Budget Phone

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he Asha 305 is a Series 40 handset that features the same easy-to-use interface. What separates the latter from its older brother though, is the presence of dual-SIM functionality.

Apart from that, Nokia has opted for a resistive screen to keep the 305's cost down.

The standard package includes the handset, charger, and a pair of earphones. The phone measures 4.3" (l) x 2.1" (w) x 0. 5" (12.8 mm) (d) and tips the scales at a mere 98 grammes. The handset is available in dark grey and red.

On the front, the gadget sports a glossy faux chrome finish that looks quite cheap. Its curved back, which is reminiscent of the X2-02's design, provides a comfortable grip.

Nokia hasn't provided any information regarding the CPU that powers this phone. Its detailed specs are as follows: •Dual-SIM, Dual-standby, Dual-band GSM (900, 1800 GHz); Hot-swappable SIM 2 slot.

•10 MB of internal storage, 32 GB microSD card slot.

•2 mp fixed-focus camera, No flash, Aperture: 2.8, Focal Length: 3.6 mm.

•Camera Features: Landscape orientation, Exposure compensation, Auto and manual white balance, Still image editor, Full screen viewfinder, Self timer, Center weighted auto exposure.

•Micro-USB 2.0 port, 2 mm charging

MOBILITY

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Mobility nov2012.indd 27

Pros:

Cons:

• Great sound quality; Hotswappable SIM slot; Sturdy build

• Resistive touchscreen; Fixed display brightness; Mediocre video player

connector, 3.5 mm audio jack.

•Bluetooth 2.1, FM radio with RDS and recording, Orientation sensor.

•Email client, IM apps, Social networking support, Nokia Maps (uses tower info and internet for location).

•1110 mAh battery with 14 hours of talk time, 24 days of standby.

•Available Colours: Dark grey, Red.

www.mobilityindia.com

The phone features the Series 40 platform, as previously seen on the Asha 311. As you may already know, the UI is inspired by Nokia's MeeGo OS, which makes use of swipe gestures for navigation. Like every other Series 40 handset, this one too lacks true multitasking. All is not lost though, since you can minimise the music player and use other apps. The weak CPU makes matters worse by its extremely sluggish performance. Overall, the user experience is very frustrating.

November 2012 | 27

11/27/2012 1:39:51 PM

MRP: Rs 00

RP: Rs

Mobility Review

Spice Stellar Horizon Mi-500— King of Mobility

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and micro USB charging/PC connectivity port are all his is Spice’s latest move to deliver mobility at the hands of end placed on the top. users, this Stellar Horizon or Mi-500 comes with its 5-inch With a 1GHz Dual Core processor display and Dual SIM capabilities. Here’s a quick look to see under its hood and running ICS in how it turned out. native mode, the Mi-500 appears It’s big! Let’s just get that out of the way. However, in quite speedy on the surface. It comparison to its competition, the Micromax A100 and Wickleak handled well enough through Whammy Note or even the great and powerful Galaxy Note I multitasking and multimedia and II, the Mi-500 manages to keep it together and stay just a consumption. little slimmer in width. It even manages to pull off a rather The benchmark scores (Linpak, swanky, refined-looking image with a squared off iPhone Quadrant, AnTuTu), however, proved meets Galaxy Note style. that at the end of the day, Dual Core or Weighty as it is (205g), the Horizon does have a feelnot, the capability of a handset to utilise good-factor about it when gripped and you’ll most the processor effectively was not very well certainly feel it when it's in your pocket. The additional met and didn’t quite stand up to devices with rear panel with attached flip cover adds a touch of lower powered chipsets. “leathery” class to the handset making a little more Spice has incorporated a few UI tweaks to appealing.

ICS on their Mi-500 handset. Settings like Audio The 5-inch display sports a 480 x 800 pixel Profile options allow you to customise alerts like resolution but somehow the colours just aren’t as one would have done with Symbian devices of old. vibrant as others in this class. The issue, it seems, is You also have the option of creating your own preset. with the contrast ratio. It appears to be a little higher Under the Display settings, the Mi-500 allows you to than most and boosting the brightness will only make select a few colour modes (that didn’t seem to make any it worse. difference at all), choose between a default scene and a The lack of a scratch free glass is also an issue and the flap work scene and also provisioned the device with a few colour doesn't help at all. Make sure you get a screen guard for this one. Volume Keys are placed on the right and the handsfree socket, Power/sleep button themes. Font sizes could also be adjusted.

Sony Xperia SL – Quality meets Substance

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he Xperia SL carries forth the same solid build of the Xperia S and despite it being plastic, manages to feel sturdy and very well made. It does appear a bit blocky due to the lack of rounded edges and a slim profile.

On the connectivity front, you will find a plastic flap-covered microUSB port and HDMI port on either side, while the 3.5mm headphone jack is placed on the top. Buttons on the phone include the volume rocker, camera shutter and a power/sleep button.

The 4.3-inch HD screen sails past the iPhone’s Retina Display with a pixel count of 342ppi. Coupled with the Sony Mobile BRAVIA Engine, this makes anything and everything on the screen appear super sharp and crisp. Colour reproduction is very good and so is the sunlight legibility. The display also supports 10 finger multi-touch gestures.

The phone should be getting a Jelly Bean update as well somewhere down the line, at least we hope so.

Sony has stuck with the same features and functions in Timescape from its previous phones and just tweaked some of the apps; after all, why fix something that’s not broken? The interface is incredibly smooth and fluid, and the lingering lag that was present in the old phone seems to have been ironed out.

The phone is powered by the same dual-core Qualcomm MSM8260 processor, but now it runs at 1.7GHz instead of 1.5GHz. The slight bump in speed helps get rid 28 | November 2012

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of some of the lag in the UI as well as gives a little boost to demanding apps like 3D games and photo/video editing.

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MOBILITY

11/27/2012 1:39:52 PM

MOBILITY