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TI’s OMAP4460 in Samsung GALAXY Nexus with Android 4.0
Updates: Samsung cuts LTE chip cost by half, ABI Research teardown reveals [Feb 7, 2012]
The Samsung Galaxy Nexus made a big impact on the market in December 2011, thanks to its sleek design, new Android OS (Ice Cream Sandwich) and NFC capability. The smartphone has another notable hidden feature that makes it more cost-competitive.
The Samsung Galaxy Nexus modem is constructed with the combination of a VIA Telecom CDMA/EVDO Rev.A integrated circuit and a Samsung LTE baseband integrated circuit, ABI Research said in its teardown note. This combination is now common for Samsung’s Verizon phones, but the Galaxy Nexus sports a new version of the LTE baseband chip. The new chip is estimated at nearly half the cost of the prior chip’s US$23 price tag.
This cost reduction is an important milestone in securing the rapid migration to LTE throughout the world, ABI Research indicated.
The application processor found inside the Galaxy Nexus is a TI OMAP4460, which runs at 1.2GHz, according to ABI Research. Other notables include an NFC antenna embedded in the device battery, and a CSR GPS single chip, a Broadcom Wi-Fi/BT/FM single chip and an Avago LTE PA and GPS frontend.
– Samsung Electronics Announces Fourth Quarter & FY 2011 Results [Samsung press release, Jan 27, 2012]
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“Despite intensified competition amid the global economic slowdown, our Telecommunications businesses continued to post solid earnings with an enhanced line-up of high-end smartphones, resulting in higher average selling price (ASP). Moreover, improved profitability and earnings growth of our Set businesses, including smartphones and flat panel TVs led to our company’s strong earnings,” said Robert Yi, Senior Vice President and Head of Investor Relations.…
Smartphone Sales Remain Main Driver
The Telecommunications businesses – including mobile communications and telecommunication systems – posted a record quarterly operating profit of 2.64 trillion won for the period. Fourth quarter revenue reached a record 17.82 trillion won compared with 11.75 trillion won for the same period of 2010.The stellar performance has allowed Samsung to register full year 2011 operating profit of 8.27 trillion won, up 90 percent on-year. Total sales for fiscal year 2011 also hit an all-time yearly high of 55.53 trillion won, accounting for almost one-third of Samsung Electronics’ total revenue for the year.
Samsung’s flagship GALAXY S II smartphone and its full lineup of high-end mobile devices, such as the GALAXY Note and the GALAXY Nexus, and entry-level models drove up revenue for the year by almost 40 percent compared with the previous year.
All told, shipments of Samsung smartphones rose by approximately 30 percent in the fourth quarter, compared with the previous quarter.
For the global market outlook for this year, demand for entry-level smartphones and tablet PCs will increase significantly, while the growth momentum for feature phones is expected to stay static. Emerging markets and the spread of LTE (Long-Term Evolution) wireless telecommunications technology have also contributed to the growth of the smartphone market, which is expected to grow by more than 30 percent.
The Telecommunication System Business will further solidify its leadership in the wireless network market with the expansion of the LTE service in Korea and North America.
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4Q FY2011 Earnings Conference Call [Samsung presentation, Jan 27, 2012]
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End of updates
Samsung and Google introduce GALAXY Nexus [Samsung Mobile press release, Oct 19, 2011]
World’s First Smartphone to feature Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich and a HD Super AMOLED display
…
Best-in-class hardware meets the most advanced software
GALAXY Nexus is the first smartphone to feature a 4.65’’ display with a market-leading resolution of 720p (1280×720), ensuring you can enjoy GALAXY Nexus’ immersive entertainment capabilities and fast web browsing in superior clarity.
Succeeding the original Contour Display of Nexus S, GALAXY Nexus comes with a rounded shape that fits perfectly within your palm or to your face for phone calling. Hyper-skin backing on the battery cover improves the ergonomic feel of the device and makes the phone slip-resistant. At just 8.94mm thick, with a minimal 4.29mm bezel, GALAXY Nexus provides superb portability alongside an expansive screen.
GALAXY Nexus also features an ultra-fast 1.2GHz dual core processor, providing superior power and speed, ensuring you can take full advantage of GALAXY Nexus’ enhanced multitasking capabilities with ease, or enjoy the large, vivid display to its full capacity with high-definition gaming or video streaming. LTE or HSPA＋ connectivity combined with a dual core processor delivers high-speed web browsing which ensures you always have the web at your fingertips, wherever you are.
GALAXY Nexus will be available in the U.S., Europe, and Asia beginning in Novemberand gradually rolled out to other global markets.
GALAXY Nexus Product Specifications
Network HSPA＋ 21Mbps/HSUPA 5.76Mbps 850/900/1900/1700/2100
EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900
＊LTE version will be available depending on the region.Processor 1.2 GHz Dual Core Processor Display 4.65” 1280X720 HD Super AMOLED OS Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich Camera Main(Rear) : 5 MP AF with LED Flash with zero shutter lag and fast shot2shot
Sub (Front) : 1.3MP for Video CallVideo Codec : MPEG4/H.263/H.264
Playback : 1080p@ 30fps
Recording : 1080p Full HD Video@ 30fpsAudio Codec : MP3/AAC/AAC＋/eAAC＋3.5mm Ear Jack Google™Mobile Services Android Market™, Gmail™, Google Earth™, YouTube™, Movie Studio
Google Maps™ 5.0 with 3D maps and turn-by-turn navigation
Syncing with Google Calendar™, Google＋ appConnectivity Bluetooth® technology v 3.0 USB 2.0
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4GHz/ 5GHz)
NFCSensor Accelerometer, Compass, Gyro, Light, Proximity, Barometer Memory 1GB(RAM) ＋ 16GB/ 32GB Internal memory Size 135.5 x 67.94 x 8.94mm, 135g Battery Standard battery, Li-on 1,750 mAh
TI confirms OMAP 4460 is in Nexus Galaxy [Oct 19, 2011]
We got word from TI that says it clearly. “Yes, the highly-anticipated Android 4.0 “Ice Cream Sandwich” release runs on the OMAP4460 processor.”
They went on to say that this is mainly due the fact they are better than the competition. They claim “the ability to provide hardware-integrated security, distinctive and advanced imaging features, enhanced memory and
more, all on a smart multicore architecture.”TI’s vice president of OMAP platform business, Remi El-Ouazzane continues with something we will break into a separate story. He tells the word that OMAP 4460 is inside Nexus and that they are the first with Android 4.0 phone. It looks like they are the reference even for Ice Cream Sandwich tablets.
“What I may be the most excited by is not only the ability to converge to one Android release for both smartphones and tablets, but to be able to pack that level of performance across graphics or video on an HD screen and within the power envelope of a smartphone device.This is where our OMAP smart multicore architecture makes a huge difference,” he said.
Also, He goes after Nvidia with this comment: “At the end of the day, brute force (number of cores, for instance) does not rival sophistication.” TI is telling the world that their two core with great video and graphics with great power is just enough.
According to OMAP™ 4 Platform: OMAP4430/OMAP4460 [March 28, 2011] and OMAP™ 4 Platform: OMAP4470 [June 2, 2011]:
| OMAP4430 | OMAP4460 | OMAP4470 | |
| Process node | 45nm | 45nm | 45nm |
| ARM® Cortex™-A9 Clock Speed (two) | 1 GHz | 1.5 GHz | 1.8 GHz |
| 2D & 3D Graphics | Hardware accelerated [POWERVR™ SGX540, greater than 2x the sustained performance compared to the previous SGX530 core] |
Hardware accelerated [POWERVR™ SGX540, greater than 2x the sustained performance compared to the previous SGX530 core ] |
Hardware accelerated Dedicated 2D and 3D graphic cores [POWERVR™ SGX544, more than two times the sustained performance compared to the previous SGX540 core performances, supports DirectX with maximum hardware acceleration] |
| Video performance (2D) | 1080p HD | 1080p HD | 1080p HD |
| Video Performance (3D) | 720p stereoscopic 3D | 1080p Stereoscopic 3D | 1080p Stereoscopic 3D |
| Imaging Performance (per second) | 20 MP main camera 5MP stereo (dual cameras) |
20MP main camera 12 MP stereo (dual cameras) |
20MP main camera 12 MP stereo (dual cameras) |
| Availability | Currently sampling | Currently sampling | Samples in 4Q 2011 |
| Display Support | WUXGA (1920 x 1200) | WUXGA (1920 x 1200) | QXGA (2048×1536), multiple screens |
Why the Galaxy Nexus uses OMAP instead of Exynos [Oct 18, 2011]
The rumors seemed strange from the start — a Samsung phone with a Texas Instruments processor? Last year’s Nexus S was a Samsung device, and it was Samsung through and through with a 1GHz Hummingbird system-on-a-chip (SoC). Now here we are looking at the new Googleflagship, the Galaxy Nexus, and it has a TI OMAP4460 on the inside. Why not Samsung’s own Exynos part?
There area few factors at work here, but the most important one is related to how the Nexus program works. Back when Google announced the Motorola Mobility buy, the company finally revealed a bit about how it operates the Nexus program. This was done in an effort to show that Motorola won’t be getting preferential treatment.
According to Google’s Andy Rubin, each year Google selects a device maker that it wants to work closely with on the next Nexus phone. But it’s not just the OEM that is involved — Google decides on components in the phone individually. Unlike other devices, Google gets it way with the Nexus.
So the team that will eventually “huddle together in one building” will be made up of the OEM, and several component makers that supply things like the SoC and radios. Then 9-12 months later, a little Nexus is born. Last year, Google went with Samsungfor the device itself, and the SoC. This year, Google has decided to put Texas Instruments on the processor team.
So now the OMAP4460 is getting quite a lot of scrutiny, even though it isn’t exactly a new chip. This dual-core SoC is clocked at 1.2GHz, and uses ARM Cortex-A9 architecture, just like the Exynos. That’s not a problem, but the older GPU, the PowerVR SGX540 is. We were hoping for a step up in the graphics department.
[Samsung’s own Cortex A9 based SoC, Exynos 4210 [Sept 22, 2011] in 1GHz and 1.2GHz version is currently sampling.]
Why did Google choose the OMAP for its new Nexus? Well, it might not live up to the high graphical standards set out by the iPhone, but it is a solid chip in its own right. The OMAP4 platform makes use of an additional hardware accelerator called IVA 3 [IVA-HD as called in the Technical Reference below] that makes encoding and decoding HD video a snap. The Galaxy Nexus has an HD screen, so this hardware focus on video is a big plus.
Google engineers were likely also drawn to the OMAP for its use of a dual-channel memory controller. Android’s multitasking system means that data is constantly being moved into, and out of, active memory. This is definitely a strength of TI’s OMAP parts.
Google will be developing the new version of Android on OMAP for the next year, so be ready for more devices based on this one. Much like the Nexus One started the Snapdragon revolution two years ago, this could be TI’s time to shine. If that OMAP4460 starts looking old and tired to OEMs in the coming year, there is always the upcoming OMAP4470 (which is armed with the much-newer and faster SGX544 GPU) to maintain compatibility and increase performance, too.
One official benchmark (GLBenchmark 2.1) to show the GPU performance differences:
OMAP4460 Multimedia Device Silicon Revision 1.x – Technical Reference Manual [PRELIMINARY, February 2011–Revised October 2011, 5620 pages]
- NOTE: Missing functionality in OMAP4430 Multimedia Device Silicon Revision 2.x – Technical Reference Manual [July 2010–Revised October 2011, 5564 pages]
Overview
The OMAP4460 high-performance multimedia application device is based on enhanced OMAP™ architecture and uses 45-nm technology.
• The architecture is designed to provide best-in-class video, image, and graphics processing for 2.5/3G wireless terminals, high-performance personal digital assistants (PDAs). For that purpose, the device
supports the following functions:
– Streaming video up to full high definition (HD) (1920 × 1080 p, 30 fps)
– 2-dimensional (2D)/3-dimensional (3D) mobile gaming
– Video conferencing
– High-resolution still image (up to 16 Mp)• The device supports high-level operating systems (OSs) such as:
– Linux®
– Palm OS™
– Symbian OS™
– Windows™ CE, WinMobile™• The device is composed of the following subsystems:
– Cortex™-A9 microprocessor unit (MPU) subsystem, including two ARM® Cortex-A9 cores
– Digital signal processor (DSP) subsystem
– Image and video accelerator high-definition (IVA-HD [IVA 3 as called in marketing materials]) subsystem
– Cortex™-M3 MPU subsystem, including two ARM Cortex-M3 microprocessors
– Display subsystem
– Audio back-end (ABE) subsystem
– Imaging subsystem (ISS), consisting of image signal processor (ISP) and still image coprocessor (SIMCOP) block
– 2D/3D graphic accelerator (SGX) subsystem
– Emulation (EMU) subsystem
Texas Instruments OMAP4460 Block Diagram
OMAP4430 and OMAP4460 comparedMemory Adapter
The purpose of the MA is to improve the missed latency of the L2 cache between the ARM Cortex-A9 processor and external memory. One of the PL310 master ports is connected to the MA and is used for all accesses to SCRAM. The PL310 address filtering mechanism is used to split incoming addresses between the MA connected to one of the PL310 master ports and the local interconnect connected to the other PL310 master port.Cache Management Unit
The CMU provides the ability to perform maintenance operations on Cortex-A9 MPU caches by physical address range. This reduces the execution time required by the Cortex-A9 CPUs to perform cache maintenance operations, while improving the overall throughput of maintenance operations. This frees the CPUs for other useful work. The registers inside the CMU are configured using the 32-bit interconnect configuration port from the local interconnect. The CMU operates at half the clock speed of the CPU core.…
EMIF Controller [EMI Module]
The EMIF [External Memory InterFace] module provides connectivity between the device and the LPDDR2-type memories and manages data bus read/write accesses between external memories, the microprocessor unit (MPU), and the direct memory access (DMA) controller.
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The EMIF is an L3 bus peripheral that provides an interface to the LPDDR2 memories.
The diagram below shows the interconnection between the EMIF module and the other modules.
Digital locked loops (DLLs) are used to delay the input DQS signals during reads so that these strobe signals can be used to latch incoming data on the DQ pins, as required by the LPDDR2 standard.
Physical layers (PHYs) are hard macros that convert single-data rate (SDR) signals to DDR signals.
EMIF of OMAP4430 and OMAP4460 comparedL3 Interface
The EMIF supports three local interfaces: one connects to the system interconnect, one to a low-latency master, and one comes from the MPU half of the EMIF-to-MPU connection. These interfaces are used to request all external memory device accesses, to access the EMIF registers, and to transfer all data to and from the EMIF controller. … A third interface arranges the connection between the EMIF and the MPU. It is separated to the MPU half of the EMIF-to-MPU L3 Interface and the EMIF half of the EMIF-to-MPU L3 Interface.[PRCM module]
• The device includes state-of-art power-management techniques required for high-performance mobile products.
• Comprehensive power management is integrated into the device.• The device also integrates:
– On-chip memory
– External memory interfaces
– Memory management
– Level 3 (L3) and level 4 (L4) interconnects
– System and connecting peripheralsCortex-A9 MPU Subsystem Description
The Cortex-A9 MPU subsystem [is based on the symmetric multiprocessor (SMP) architecture and] integrates the following submodules:
• ARM Cortex-A9 MPCore
– Two ARM Cortex-A9 central processing units (CPUs)
– ARM Version 7 ISA™: Standard ARM instruction set plus Thumb®-2, Jazelle® RCT and Jazelle DBX Java™ accelerators
– Neon™ SIMD coprocessor and VFPv3 per CPU
– Interrupt controller (Cortex-A9 MPU INTC) with up to 128 interrupt requests
– One general-purpose timer and one watchdog timer per CPU
– Debug and trace features
– 32-KB instruction and 32-KB data level 1 (L1) caches per CPU• Shared 1-MB level 2 (L2) cache
• 48 KB bootable ROM
• Local power, reset, and clock management (PRCM) module
• Emulation features
• Digital phase-locked loop (DPLL)
TI OMAP4460: Cortex-A9 MPU – ABE – DSP subsystemsABE Subsystem Description
The ABE subsystem handles audio processing for the application. It manages the audio and voice streams between the Cortex-A9 MPU subsystem and/or DSP, and the physical interfaces.The ABE subsystem allows:
• Buffering of audio samples
• Mixing audio with voice downstream and/or microphone upstream (sidetone)
• Postprocessing of equalization, 3D effects, bass-boostThe ABE subsystem consists of:
• Audio engine (AE) subsystem, which performs real-time signal processing such as:
– Muxing and mixing voice and data streams
– Postprocessing operations such as sampling rate conversion, volume control, 3D effects
– Execution of whole data transfers in the ABE subsystem using audio traffic controller (ATC)The AE subsystem includes an AE and has the following on-chip memories available: 64-KB data memory (DMEM); 6-KB coefficient memory (CMEM); and 18-KB sample memory (SMEM).
The ATC manages the data movement in the ABE subsystem and is in charge of interrupt generation to the DSP and Cortex-A9 MPU subsystems.
• Four general-purpose timers (GPTIMERs) and one watchdog timer (WDTIMER)
• Peripheral interfaces:
– Three multichannel buffered serial ports (McBSPs) for inter-IC sound ( I2S™) external connectivity
– One multichannel audio serial port (McASP) supporting Sony/Philips digital interconnect format (S/PDIF) output
– One MIPI SLIMbus interface to support new generations of MIPI-compliant components
– One digital microphone (DMIC) for three stereo digital microphones support
– One multichannel pulse-density modulation (McPDM) interface, which ensures communication with the TWL6040 audio companion chip• Internal interfaces for connection with the DSP and Cortex-A9 MPU subsystems and other modules in the device
• Dedicated power domain (ABE power domain)
DSP Subsystem Description
This information is not available in the public domain.
IVA-HD [IVA 3 as called in marketing materials] Subsystem Description
The IVA-HD subsystem is a set of video encoder/decoder hardware accelerators. It supports up to 1080p × 30 fps, slow-motion camcorder, triple play (HD and SD capture and JPEG capture), real-time transcoding of up to 720p, and video conferencing up to 720p.
The IVA-HD subsystem is composed of:
• Improved motion estimation acceleration engine (iME3), which is used in encoding processing
• Improved loop filter acceleration engine (iLF3), which performs deblocking filtering
• Improved sequencer (iCONT1) based on the ARM968E-S™ microcontroller. It includes memory and INTC and is used as a primary sequencer.
• Intraprediction estimation engine (iPE3). It is used in encoding processing.
• Calculation engine (CALC3), which performs transform and quantization calculations
• Motion compensation engine (MC3), which creates an interprediction macroblock with given motion vectors and modes from the reference data
• Entropy coder/decoder (ECD3), which uses Huffman and arithmetic codes during the process of encoding and decoding the stream
• Video DMA processor (iCONT2), which is also based on the ARM968E-S microcontroller and can be used as secondary sequencer
• Video DMA engine (vDMA), which is a DMA engine for data transmission between external memories and shared L2 memory
• Synchronization box (SyncBox) embedded in each hardware accelerator and in both iCONTs
• Mailbox for communication between IVA-HD and external to it processors (DSP, Cortex-A9, and Cortex-M3)
• Shared L2 interface and memory
• Video local interconnect for connection between the submodules of the IVA-HD, and between the IVA-HD and DSP subsystems
• IVA-HD system control module (SYSCTRL), which controls the clocks in the subsystem and PRCM handshakingThe IVA-HD subsystem can process three data formats for internal data: picture or slice, macroblock header, and residual data.
The IVA-HD supports [the following codec standards natively; that is, all functions of standards are accelerated (without any intervention of the digital signal processor [DSP])] the following formats:
• MPEG-1/-2/-4 such as MPEG-2 MP, ML, and MPEG-4 as SP/ASP
• Divx 5.02 and above
• Sorenson Spark [V0 and V1] (decode)
• H.263 P0 (encode and decode) and P3 (decode)
• H.264 Annex G (scalable baseline profile up to 720p)
• H.264 BP/MP/HP
• [H.264: Fast Profile/RCDO Encode and Decode]
• H.264 Annex H (partial) [up to 720p30]
• Stereoscopic video
• JPEG [(also MJPEG)] (encode/decode)
• VC-1 [WMV9/RTV] SP/MP/AP
• AVS-1.0
• RealVideo® 8/9/10 (decode only)
• On2® VP6.2/VP7 (decode only)[IVA-HD 1.0 will use eXpressDSP Digital Media (xDM) standard as the principle software interface. The xDM standard defines application programming interfaces (APIs) through which an application invokes a
particular class of codec, such as video decode or audio encode.xDM developers kit, technical documentation and full compliant codecs can be downloaded from http://focus.ti.com/docs/toolsw/folders/print/tmdxdaisxdm.html.
Software released on IVA-HD 1.0 will be xDM-compliant and will be available during 2010.]
TI OMAP4460: DSP – IVAHD – Display subsystemsDisplay Subsystem Description
The display subsystem provides the control signals required to interface the OMAP system memory frame buffer (SDRAM) directly to the displays. [The display subsystem (DSS) provides the logic to display a video frame from the memory frame buffer on a liquid-crystal display (LCD) panel or a TV set.] It supports hardware cursor, independent gamma curve on all interfaces, multiple-buffer, and programmable color phase rotation. The display subsystem allows low-power display refresh and arbitration between normal and low-priority pipelines.
The display subsystem consists of the following sections:
• Display controller: It can read and display the encoded pixel data stored in memory and write the output of one of the overlays or one of the pipelines into the system memory. It supports the following components:
– Three video pipelines, one graphic pipeline, and one write-back pipeline. The graphic pipeline supports pixel formats such as: ARGB16-4444, RGB16-565, ARGB16-1555, ARGB32-8888, RGBA32-8888, RGB24-888, and BITMAP (1, 2, 4, or 8 bits per pixel). It allows selection of the
color-depth expansion.
– Write-back pipeline: it uses poly-phase filtering for independent horizontal and vertical resampling (upsampling and downsampling). It allows programmable color space conversion of RGB24 into YUV4:2:2-UYVY, YUV4:2:2-YUV2, or YUV4:2:0-NV12, and selection of color-depth reduction from RGB24 to RGB16.
– Two LCD outputs, each one with dedicated overlay manager, for support of passive matrix color and monochrome displays (up to 8-bit interface) and active matrix color displays (up to 24-bit interface). Secondary LCD output is available through parallel CMOS interface for MIPI®-DPI 1.0
support.
– One TV output with dedicated overlay manager
– Own direct memory access (DMA) engine• Remote frame buffer interface (RFBI) module.
– Support for MIPI-DBI protocol
– 8-/9-/16-bit parallel interface
– Programmable pixel modes and output formats• Two MIPI display serial interfaces (DSIs) with the following main features:
– Support for MIPI-DSI (four data-lane complex inputs/outputs (I/Os) for DSI1 and two data-lane complex I/Os for DSI2)
– Support for video mode and command mode
– Data interleaving support for synchronous and asynchronous streams
– Bidirectional data link support• High-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) encoder with the following main features:
– HDMI 1.3, HDCP 1.2, and DVI 1.0 compliant
— Including support for the 3D Stereoscopic frame-packing formats of HDMI v1.4 standard (720p, 50Hz, 720p, 60Hz and 1080p, 24Hz)
– Deep-color mode support (10-bit for up to 1080p and up to 12-bit for 1080i/720p)
– Support for uncompressed multichannel audio
– Integrated high-bandwidth digital content protection (HDCP) encryption engine for transmitting protected audio and video content
– Integrated transition minimized differential signaling (TMDS) and TERC4 encoders for data island support• NTSC/PAL video encoder with the following main features:
– Output to on-chip video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC) providing composite analog output signal: NTSC-J, M; PAL-B, D, G, H, I; PAL-M
– Support for square pixel sampling
– Programmable horizontal synchronization, vertical timing, and waveformsNOTE: The NTSC/PAL video encoder and VDAC function are not supported.
Face Detect Module Description
The face detect module is a stand-alone module that performs face detection and tracking on a picture stored in the SDRAM memory. It communicates with the Cortex-A9 MPU, DSP, and Cortex-M3 MPU
subsystems.Face detect is typically used on:
• Video encoding
• Face-based priority auto-focusing
• Red-eye removalThe face detect module comprises:
• Face detection core with embedded DMA engine for data memory access
• RAM and ROM memories
• L3 and L4 port interfacesCortex-M3 MPU Subsystem Description
[The dual Cortex™-M3 microprocessor (MPU) subsystem controls the imaging subsystem (ISS) and manages some controls of the video and display subsystem. It contains two ARM® Cortex-M3 processors (CPUs) that share a common level 1 (L1) cache (shared cache). One of the CPUs is dedicated to sequencing still image coprocessor (SIMCOP) accelerators, and the other CPU is dedicated to the ISS and display subsystem control. A single image real-time operating system (RTOS) runs on both cores, thereby minimizing the code size. The integrated interrupt handling of the dual Cortex-M3 MPU allows efficient control of the ISS.]
The Cortex-M3 MPU subsystem includes the following components:
• Two Cortex-M3 CPUs: One for SIMCOP control, and the other for RTOS, ISP, and display subsystem control
• ARMv7-M and Thumb-2 instruction set architecture
• Dedicated INTC with up to 64 physical interrupt events
• Two-level memory subsystem hierarchy
– L1
— 32-KB shared cache memory
– L2 ROM + RAM
— 64-KB RAM
— 16-KB bootable ROM
• Cortex-M3 system bus directly connected to the ISS interconnect
• MMU for address translation
• Integrated power management
• Emulation feature embedded in the Cortex-M3
TI OMAP4460: Display – Face Detect – ISS – Cortex M3 MPU subsystemsISS Description
[The imaging subsystem (ISS) deals with the processing of the pixel data coming from an external image sensor, data from memory (image format encoding and decoding can be done to and from memory), or data from SL2 in IVA-HD for hardware encoding. With its subparts, such as interfaces and interconnects, image signal processor (ISP), and still image coprocessor (SIMCOP), the ISS is a key component for the following multimedia applications: camera viewfinder, video record, and still image capture.]
The ISS processes data coming from the image sensor, memory, and IVA-HD subsystem. The ISS is responsible for multimedia applications such as: camera viewfinder; video record with up to 1080 p at 30 fps with digital zoom and still image processing, such as image capture up to 16 Mp with digital zoom and rotation. The ISS supports a pixel throughput of up to 200 Mp/s. It assures good performance with sensors up to 16 Mp and more (higher resolution can be achieved through multiple passes). The ISS can implement third-party algorithms for further flexibility when working with image sensors.
The ISS consists of:
• The ISP, which deals with on-the-fly or memory-to-memory data processing. It allows data collection for autoexposure, autowhite balance, autofocus, resizing, and histogram generation.
The ISP consists of:
– Image pipe interface (IPIPEIF) for synchronization signals (HD, VD) for the ISIF, IPIPE, RSZ, and hardware 3A (H3A) modules, and data transfer from video port, SDRAM, ISIF. Various pixel data manipulation functions.
– Image pipe (IPIPE) front-end and back-end modules for raw data processing and RGB and YUV data processing, respectively. They support:
— Sensor data linearization for dynamic range extension
— Programmable 2D lens shading compensation correction
— Black-level compensation
— Gamma correction
— RGB color correction
— RGB to YUV4:2:2 color conversion
— 3D look up table (LUT) for color correction
— 2D edge enhancement
— False chroma suppression
– H3A for autowhite balance, autoexposure, and autofocus
– Pattern generator (PG) for internal data generation for test purposes. It provides the ability to test some of the ISP submodules without the use of an external image sensor.
– Two independent resizers, which allow YUV4:2:2 to YUV4:2:0 planar Chroma filtering and downsampling. The resizers support input and output flows with up to 200 Mp/s, and memory-to-memory rescaling in the range ×1/4096 scale down, and ×20 scale up.– Image sensor interface (ISIF) can process the incoming data and supports the following main functions:
— Sensor data linearization
— Supports VGA read out mode
— Color space conversion
— Digital clamp with horizontal/vertical offset drift compensation
— Vertical line defect correction
— Programmable 2D-matrix lens shading correction
— 10-to-8 bits A-Law compression table inside
– Buffer logic (BL), which processes and manages the requests to the module and memory subsystem• Peripheral serial interfaces for connection with sensors and memories:
– Two PHYs, CSIPHY1 and CSIPHY2, for physical connection to external sensors
– Peripheral serial interfaces CSI2-A and CSI2-B/CCP2 for image data transfer from sensors to memory or ISP• Peripheral 16-bit parallel interface, BT656 and SYNC mode
[Parallel interface (CPI)
• 16 bits wide
• up to 148.5 MPix/s
• BT656 and SYNC mode (HS, VS, FIELD, WEN)
…The camera subsystem can manage a parallel interface and [up to] two serial image sensors. Depending on the configuration of the shared pins, two of the interfaces can be active at the same time. However, only one data flow can use the ISP. Moreover, if the parallel interface is used data from it goes to ISP and the other used interface must send it to memory.]
• SIMCOP module for memory-to-memory operation; JPEG encode/decode hardware acceleration; high-ISO filtering; block-based rotation; warping and fusion; and general-purpose imaging acceleration.
The SIMCOP includes the following main submodules:
– Two imaging extension (iMX) modules – programmable image and video processing engines
– Noise filter 2 (NSF2) – for advanced noise filtering and edge-enhancement
– Variable-length coder/decoder for JPEG (VLCDJ) module
– Discrete cosine transform (DCT) module
– Lens distortion correction (LDC) module
– Rotation accelerator (ROT) engine
– Hardware sequencer, which offloads sequencing tasks from the MPU
– Shared buffers/memories
– DMA controller• Timing control module for CAM global reset control, CAM flash strobe, and CAM shutter
• System interfaces and interconnects comprising:
– Two configuration interfaces
– One 128-bit master data interface
– Internal ISS interconnects for image data and configuration
– On-chip RAM interface
– Circular buffer (CBUFF) and burst-translation engine (BTE) for efficient communication with external memory (SDRAM/TILER support)2D/3D Graphics Accelerator [SGX Subsystem] Description
The 2D/3D graphics accelerator subsystem is based on POWERVR® SGX540 core from Imagination Technologies. It supports phone/PDA and handheld gaming applications. [The POWERVR SGX540 v1.2.0 architecture is scalable and can target all market segments from mainstream mobile devices to high-end desktop graphics.] The SGX can process different data types simultaneously, such as: pixel data, vertex data, video data, and general-purpose data processing. [Targeted applications include feature phones, PDAs, and handheld gaming applications.]
The SGX subsystem has the following features:
• Universal scalable shader engine ( USSE™), multithreaded engine incorporating pixel and vertex shader functionality to reduce die area
• Advanced shader feature set in excess of Microsoft VS3.0, PS3.0, and OGL2.0
• Industry-standard API supports Direct3D™ Mobile, OGL-ES 1.1 and 2.0, OpenVG™ 1.1, and OpenMAX™
• Fine-grained task switching, load balancing, and power management
• Programmable high-quality image antialiasing
• Advanced geometry DMA driven operation for minimum CPU interaction
• Fully virtualized memory addressing for OS operation in a unified memory architecture
• Advanced and standard 2D operations, such as vector graphics, BLTs, ROPs, etc.
• Programmable video encode and decode support for H.264, H.263, MPEG-4 (SP), WMV9, and JPEGOn-Chip Debug Support [EMU Subsystem] Description
[Debugging a system containing an embedded processor involves an environment that connects high-level debugging software, executing on a host computer, to a low-level debug interface supported by the target
device. In between these levels is a debug and trace controller (DTC) that facilitates communication between the host debugger and the debug support logic on the target chip.A combination of hardware and software that connects the host debugger to the target system, the DTC uses one or more hardware interfaces and/or protocols to convert actions dictated by the debugger user to
JTAG® commands and scans that execute the core hardware.The debug software and hardware components let the user control multiple central processing unit (CPU) cores embedded in the device in a global or local manner. This environment provides:
• Synchronized global starting and stopping of multiple processors
• Starting and stopping of an individual processor
• Each processor can generate triggers that can be used to alter the execution flow of other processors.System topics include but are not limited to:
• System clocking and power-down issues
• Interconnection of multiple devices
• Trigger channelsFor easy integration into applications, a set of libraries (APIs) for debug-IP programming and a software message library are being provided. CToolsLib is a collection of embedded target APIs/library to enable
easy programmatic access to the chip tools (CTools), which are system-level debug facilities included in the debug subsystem capabilities of TI devices. More information about the APIs, download files, and
other useful links for available libraries can be found on the CToolsLib Wiki site: http://processors.wiki.ti.com/index.php/CToolsLib]The on-chip debug support has the following features:
• Multiprocessor debugging lets users control multiple CPU cores embedded in the device, such as:
– Global starting and stopping of individual or multiple processors
– Each processor can generate triggers that can be used to alter the execution flow of other processors
– System clocking and power down
– Interconnection of multiple devices
– Channel triggering• Target debugging, using IEEE1149.1 (JTAG®), or IEEE1149.7 (complementary superset of JTAG) port
• Reduction of power consumption in normal operating mode
• Real-time software trace allows the OMAP software masters to transmit trace data from OS processes or tasks on 256 different channels.The debug subsystem includes:
• IEEE1149.7 adapter
• Generic TAP for emulation and test control ( ICEPick-D™)
• Debug access port (DAP)
• Processor trace subsystem
• System trace subsystem
• EMU configuration interconnect
• Cross-triggering unit (XTRIGGER)
• Debug resource manager (DRM)ICEMelter:
• Controls the wake-up and power-down of the emulation power domainCORE instrumentation interconnect:
• Initiator ports:
– L3 interconnect (for software instrumentation and performance probes)
– OCP-WP
– IVA-HD instrumentation (HWA profiling)
– CM2 instrumentation
• Target port:
– EMU instrumentation interconnectOCP watch-point (OCP-WP):
• Monitors L3 interconnect transaction when target transaction attributes match the user-defined attributes or trigger on external debug event
• Only one instance, shared among the following L3 targets:
– GPMC
– L4_PER
– L4_CFGPower management events profiler (PM instrumentation)
Clock management events profiler (CM instrumentation)
Statistics collector (performance probes)
TI OMAP4460: EMU subsystem – PRCM module –
System Peripherals – SAR RAM – SAR ROMPower, Reset, and Clock Management [PRCM module]Description
The PRCM module allows efficient control of clocks and power according to the required performance, and reduction of power consumption.
[Power management (efficient use of the limited battery resources on a mobile device) is one of the most important design aspects of any mobile system. It imposes strong control over limited available power resources to ensure they function for the longest possible length of time.
The device power-management architecture ensures maximum performance and operation time for user satisfaction (audio/video support) while offering versatile power-management techniques for maximum design flexibility, depending on application requirements.
This introduction contains the following information:
• Power-management architecture building blocks for the device
• State-of-the-art power-management techniques supported by the power-management architecture of the deviceTo provide a versatile architecture supporting multiple power-management techniques, the power-management framework is built with three levels of resource management: clock, power, and voltage management.
These management levels are enforced by defining the managed entities or building blocks of the power-management architecture, called the clock, power, and voltage domains.
A domain is a group of modules or subsections of the device that share a common entity (for example, common clock source, common voltage source, or a common power switch). The group forming the domain is managed by a policy manager. For example, a clock for a clock domain is managed by a dedicated clock manager within the power, reset, and clock management (PRCM) module. The clock manager takes into consideration the joint clocking constraints of all the modules belonging to that clock domain (and, hence, receiving that clock).
NOTE: In the following sections, the term module is used to represent the device IPs (that is, modules or subsystems), other than the PRCM module, that receive clock, reset, or power signals from the PRCM module.
Clock Management
The PRCM module manages the gating (that is, switching off) and enabling of the clocks to the device modules. The clocks are managed based on the requirement constraints of the associated modules. The following sections identify the module clock characteristics, management policy, clock domains, and clock domain management.
…Power Management
The PRCM module manages the switching on and off of the power supply to the device modules. The power to the modules can be switched off when they are not in use to minimize device power consumption. Independent power control of sections of the device allow the PRCM module to turn on and off specific sections of the device without affecting the others.
…Voltage Management
The PRCM module controls the voltage scaling (that is, switching the voltage in discrete steps or in a continuum within a range of possible values) of the power sources of the device. This allows control of the
device power consumption according to the performance criteria defined. Higher performance is ensured with higher voltage and clock frequencies (and hence higher power consumption), while lower performance can be supported with lowered power consumption by reducing or completely gating the power supply to specific areas of the device and gating the associated clocks.
…]The PRCM module is divided into:
• Power and reset management (PRM), based on the SmartReflex™ framework with the following features:
– Dynamic clock gating
– Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS)
– Dynamic power switching (DPS)
– Static leakage management (SLM)
– Adaptive body bias (ABB)
– Retention-till-access (RTA) for memories• Clock management 1 (CM1) for clock generation, distribution, and management for the Cortex-A9 MPU, ABE, and CORE always-on power domains. The clock management allows reduction of dynamic
consumption.• Clock management 2 (CM2) for clock generation, distribution, and management for other modules
System and Connection Peripherals
The OMAP device supports a comprehensive set of peripherals to provide flexible and high-speed (HS) interfacing and on-chip programming resources.
System Peripherals [see on the above diagram]
• Seven general-purpose timers (GPTIMER)
• One watchdog timer (WDTIMER)
• One 32-kHz synchronization timer (32KTIMER)• System control module, which contains registers for the following functions:
– Static device configuration
– Debug and observability
– Status
– Pad configuration
– I/O configuration
– eFuse logic
– Analog function control
– System boot decoding logic• System mailbox with eight mailbox message queues
[Communication between the on-chip processors – Cortex-A9 MPU, DSP and Cortex-M3 MPU – of the device uses a queued mailbox-interrupt mechanism. The queued mailbox-interrupt mechanism allows the software to establish a communication channel between two processors through a set of registers and associated interrupt signals by sending and receiving messages (mailboxes). ]
• One SPINLOCK module [provides hardware assistance for synchronizing the processes running on multiple processors in the device] with 32 hardware semaphores, which can service tasks between the Cortex-A9 MPU, DSP, and Cortex-M3 MPU subsystems
• One chip-to-chip (C2C) interface, which [is a serial, low-latency, peer-to-peer communication protocol that enables the extension of an internal protocol bus to one physical device over a printed circuit board (PCB). It] services the communication between the OMAP device and external devices
Connection Peripherals
… [see later]
On-Chip Memory Description
The on-chip memory is divided into L3 OCM RAM, SAR ROM, SAR RAM, and memories in the subsystems (Cortex-A9, Cortex-M3, ABE, and IVA-HD).
• The L3 OCM RAM consists of 56KB of on-chip SRAM.
• The save-and-restore (SAR) ROM [see on the above diagram] consists of 4KB and contains a linked list of descriptors used by the system DMA (sDMA).
• The SAR RAM [see on the above diagram] consists of 8KB divided into four blocks. It is used as context-saving memory when the device goes into off mode.Memory Management Description
The memory management is performed from:
• sDMA controller with up to 127 requests, 32 prioritizable logical channels, and 256 × 64-bit FIFO
[The system direct memory access (SDMA) module, also called DMA4, performs high-performance data transfers between memories and peripheral devices without microprocessor unit (MPU) or digital signal
processor (DSP) support during transfer. A DMA transfer is programmed through a logical DMA channel, which allows the transfer to be optimally tailored to the requirements of the application. ]• Dynamic memory management (DMM) module, which performs global address translation, address rotation (tiling), and access interleaving
[The dynamic memory manager (DMM) module is typically located immediately in front of the synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) controller (SDRC), as shown in the below diagram.
In a broad sense, the DMM manages various aspects of memory accesses such as:
– Initiator-indexed priority generation
– Multizone SDRAM interleaving configuration
– Block object transfer optimization – tiling
– Centralized low-latency page translation – MMU-like featureThe dynamic qualifier for memory management highlights the software configurability, and hence the runtime nature, of the four aspects of memory management handled by the DMM.]
External Memory Interface Description
There are two main interfaces for connection to external memories: general-purpose memory controller (GPMC) and dual-channel SDRAM controller (SDRC).
The GPMC [an unified memory controller dedicated to interfacing external memory devices] supports:
• Asynchronous SRAM memories
• Asynchronous/synchronous [, and page mode (available only in nonmuxed mode) burst] NOR flash memories
• NAND flash memories
• Pseudo-SRAM devicesThe SDRC/EMIF [provides connectivity between the device and LPDDR2-type memory and] allows:
• Connection between the device and LPDDR2-type memory. It supports double-data rate (DDR) and single-data rate (SDR) protocols. The EMIF is the interface between LPDDR2 SDRAM and the Cortex-A9 MPU subsystem, ISS, IVA-HD subsystem, SGX, and DMA controllers.
• PHY is the DDR physical interface, which implements data-rate conversion in compliance with LPDDR2 JEDEC requirements.
TI OMAP4460: DMM Module – External Memory Interface – L3 OCM RAM – Connection Peripherals – sDMA ControllerSystem and Connection Peripherals
The OMAP device supports a comprehensive set of peripherals to provide flexible and high-speed (HS) interfacing and on-chip programming resources.
System Peripherals
… [see earlier]Connection Peripherals
• Three universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) modules as serial-communication interfaces
• One UART + IrDA SIR up to FIR + TV remote control interface (CIR)
• McBSP module to provide full-duplex serial communication between the OMAP and other applications chips and codecs
• Five HS I2C™ controller modules; four of them are general-purpose modules with rates up to 3.4 Mbps, and the fifth one, in the PRCM module, performs dynamic voltage control and power sequencing with an external power IC.
• HDQ™/ 1-Wire® – Benchmarq HDQ and Dallas Semiconductor 1-Wire protocols interface
• Two HS MMC/SD/SDIO modules with 8-bit data bus interface, that can act as an initiator on L3 interconnect thanks to an embedded DMA
• Three HS MMC/SD/SDIO modules with 4-bit data bus interface
• Six general-purpose input/output (GPIO) modules with 32 I/Os each
• One keyboard controller, which supports up to 9 × 9 matrix keypads
• One MIPI SLIMbus interface
• Four multichannel serial peripheral interface (MCSPI) modules
• One HS universal serial bus (USB) On-The-Go (OTG) module with embedded PHY, compliant with the USB2.0 (up to 480 Mbps) standard for HS functions and with the OTG supplement
• One HS multiport USB host module, which can be used for interchip connection or with an off-chip transceiver. It is compliant with the USB2.0 standard. The USB host module allows communication with USB peripherals with data rates up to 480 Mbps for HS, up to 12 Mbps for full-speed, and up to 1.5 Mbps for low-speed.
• One full-speed USB module compliant with the USB1.1 standard for full-speed functions
• One MIPI high-speed synchronous serial interface (HSI) module with two full-duplex serial communication interfaces. It is used for communication between the OMAP device and an external device, with data rates up to 192 Mbps for transmission, and up to 225 Mbps for reception. The MIPI HSI supports 16 logical channels on each destination (RX/TX).
| GLBenchmark 2.1 |
TD-SCDMA: US$3B into the network (by the end of 2012) and 6 million phones procured (just in October)
Updates: China government not expected to issue TD-LTE operating license for the time being [Jan 16, 2012]
While China Mobile has been actively promoting TD-LTE, the China government is not expected to issue a TD-LTE operating license to China Mobile for the time being, according to industry sources.
China Mobile finished initial TD-LTE trials in seven selected cities in China around the end of 2011 and has proposed a second-round of trials, but the China government has not yet approved the plans, signaling the government’s attitude to slow down promotion of TD-LTE in China, the sources indicated.
This is because 3G mobile communication services are taking off in the China market and therefore the government does not want to issue a TD-LTE operating license out of consideration for China Telecom and China Unicom, the sources said.
– China Outstrips U.S. in Smartphone Market [Nov 23, 2011]
Deliveries of smart phones to operators and retailers in China grew 58% in the third quarter from the previous quarter to 24 million units. That surpassed 23 million units delivered to the U.S. market, down 7% from the previous quarter …
Nokia Corp. had the largest share of China’s smartphone market in the third quarter, with 29%. … Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. is chasing hard with 18% of the Chinese market …
Strategy Analytics estimates that 57% of the world’s handsets were manufactured in China in 2010. … two of Nokia’s eight production facilities are based in China and the company said China is also one of its bigger suppliers of mobile handset components. …
End of updates
China Mobile Begins New Round of TD-SCDMA Procurement [Oct 12, 2011]
China Mobile (NYSE: CHL; 0941.HK) recently began its fifth-round TD-SCDMA equipment tender. China Mobile will further expand its TD-SCDMA 3G network by deploying base stations in county-level cities and other key urban areas, with total base stations expected to reach approximately 300,000 by the end of 2012. Mobile network equipment vendors have received tender orders and will place bids this week.
China market: China Mobile to expand TD-SCDMA network, says report [Oct 14, 2011]
China Mobile will invest an estimated CNY19 billion (US$2.97 billion) to expand its TD-SCDMA network, adding 53,000 base stations around China, according to China-based media DoNews.
China Mobile has established about 210,000 TD-SCDMA base stations around China, the report indicated.
The second-round value was not disclosed only the following became known (China Mobile Releases TD-SCDMA Tender Results [Nov 17, 2011])
The second round TD-SCDMA tender, with a scale 1.53 times that of the first round, involved 23,000 wireless base stations in 28 Chinese cities.
The third-round had a value of RMB8.6 billion ($1.26 billion), see: China Mobile releases 3rd-round TD-SCDMA bidding results [May 11, 2009]
According to China Mobile to Release Results of Phase Four of TD-SCDMA Tender [TD Forum, July 1, 2011]
China Mobile is expected to procure around 102,000 base stations for the TD-SCDMA network in 101 cities, close to the total number in the previous projects.
In the previous three TD-SCDMA network construction projects, China Mobile set up 108,000 base stations in total, with a combined investment of over CNY90 billion (USD13.16 billion).
According to Winners of New TD-SCDMA Bid [June 9, 2010]:
CMC has spent about 103 billion yuan ($15 billion) on three phases of TD-SCDMA construction so far. Insiders estimate the new round will cost about 90 billion yuan ($13 billion) based on the number of BTSs that will be 2.5 times over the previous phase. Actual spending may be different because more or less BTSs may be needed as project goes along. Previously, CMC announced a phase-down in capex to reach about 80 billion yuan ($12 billon) by 2012 from 123 billion yuan ($18 billion) in 2010, a reduction of 35% in three years.
CMC’s goal is, after the fourth phase, TD-SCDMA coverage will be available in all major cities with improved signal quality and low drop ratio. However, user experience can be very different. Even in cities where the service is available people still complain about shaky connection and jagged video especially in moving vehicles or traveling toward the edge of city. CMC officials say an objective of fourth phase is to “replenish” blind spots in existing networks missed from previous phase, a weakness that has put CMC behind its rivals in quality of service.
If everything goes smoothly, construction is expected to begin in August or September.
According to Chinese vendors take 70% of [4th round] TD tender: report [July 28, 2010]:
China Mobile has built out its network in 238 cities over the last two years. It spent 129 billion yuan ($19b) on its 2G and 3G networks in 2009-10 and this year expects to invest 123 billion yuan, of which 106 billion will go to its combined 2G/3G rollout.
CMCC to Invest CNY 19bn to Construct TD-SCDMA Network [Oct 13, 2011]
BEIJING, Oct 13, 2011 (SinoCast Daily Business Beat via COMTEX) — The insider disclosed on October that CMCC (China Mobile Communications Corporation) is to invest CNY 19 billion to construct TD-SCDMA network in different counties and important villages and towns in China.
Meanwhile, the existing TD network topology in cities will be perfected. It is reported that CMCC plans to construct 53,000 new TD base stations. Through the first four phases of construction and continuous blind compensation, CMCC has constructed 210,000 base stations by the beginning of this year.
The invitation for the bidding started from the later half of September and has entered into the crucial bidding returning stage at present. According to the requirements of CMCC, manufacturers have to return the tenders today.
It is specially required by CMCC that the TD-SCDMA network to be newly constructed should be smoothly upgraded to TD-LTE network with the same frequency, namely, the TD-SCDMA network should be upgraded and evolved to the future LTE-frequency network in terms of wireless equipment, core network equipment, transmission and supporting facility at current frequency.
Source: http://www.sina.com.cn (October 13, 2011)
The current subscriber data (from the corresponding operators, till August 2011) is indeed showing that China Mobile TD-SCDMA needs a significant boost in the subscriber numbers:
China Mobile had 627.628 million mobile subscribers as of August 31, 2011, and 40.318 million 3G subscribers, that is only 6.4% of the overall.
China Unicom meanwhile had 186.1 million mobile subscribers as of August 31, 2011, and 27.868 million 3G subscribers, that is as much as 14.97% of the overall.
China Mobile to purchase 6 million TD-SCDMA mobile phones [Oct 9, 2011]
According to a notice issued to all mobile phone manufacturers , China Mobile has launched a new round of TD-SCDMA mobile phone purchases before National Day [Oct 1], and plans to purchase six million universal TD mobile phones.
All procurement of universal TD handset
A relevant mobile phone manufacturer said this purchase is called “universal G3 mobile phone” centralized procurement project, the procurement of universal G3 mobile phone estimates about 6 million, including 3.6 million low-end TV terminals , 2.4 million mid-end TV terminals.
The mobile phone manufacturers received invitation to tender on the September 29th 16:00 to 18:00 and September 30 9:00-18:00 .
The TD phones purchases maybe related to the fourth round TD-SCDMA network Construction. The construction is currently underway and will be extended to almost all cities of the country. In this case, the demand for TD mobile phones increased.
Chipmakers are ready to support that:
First real chances for Marvell on the tablet and smartphone fronts [Aug 21 – Sept 25, 2011]
especially because: Kinoma is now the marvellous software owned by Marvell [Feb 15, 2011]
Spreadtrum is the other big player in that:
China Mobile To Adjust Subsidies For TD-SCDMA Terminals [Oct 17, 2011]
China Mobile (0941.HK) plans to adjust the subsidies given to buyers of its TD-SCDMA terminals in order to expand the pool of its 3G users following several unsuccessful attempts to introduce Apple Inc’s iPhone, reports yicai.com.
Li Liyou, the C.E.O. of a TD-SCDMA chip maker [chairman of Spreadtrum], said the largest mobile operator in China has cut the procurement of TD-SCDMA terminals by two-thirds, and buyers of TD-SCDMA phones which are included under the operator’s list of TD-SCDMA phones will now be able to enjoy fee rebates.
According to Li, 2012 will be the year in which GSM mobile phones are replaced by TD-SCDMA phones as the difference in production cost per phone is reduced to less than $2, and TD-SCDMA smartphones currently cost about $60 to make, and can be sold to customers at 700 yuan each.
Procurement by China Mobile currently accounts for less than 30 percent of total TD-SCDMA terminal sales volume, said Gao Guiming, vice president of Changhong Communication and Digital Information.
Spreadtrum Meets Milestone for China Mobile TD-SCDMA Grant [Sept 30, 2011]
Spreadtrum Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPRD; “Spreadtrum” or the “Company”), a leading fabless semiconductor provider in China with advanced technology in both 2G and 3G wireless communications standards, today announced that in 3Q 2011 it has met the last major milestone of a TD-SCDMA research and development grant awarded by China Mobile to the Company in 2009. This marks successful completion of the project and will enable the Company to recognize more than US$8 million in research and development grants as an offset to operating expenses in the third quarter of 2011, including subsidies recognized from both the China Mobile and other government projects. Spreadtrum’s TD-SCDMA customers include more than 30 global and domestic tier-1 manufacturers and design houses who have introduced more than 72 feature phone and smartphone models in 2011 using Spreadtrum’s baseband solutions.
Spreadtrum now commands more than 50% market share of TD-SCDMA shipment volumes. Dr. Leo Li, Spreadtrum’s president and CEO commented, “We are the clear leader in the feature phone and fixed wireless segments of the TD-SCDMA market, which account for the majority of industry shipments so far this year. Our 40nm-based single-chips with TD-SCDMA/EDGE/GPRS/GSM, multi-media and power management features have enabled customers building handsets on our platform to achieve breakthrough standby and talk times, at a retail price point that is attractive to 3G handset buyers. We further expect to expand our footprint in the smartphone segment following the launch of our low-cost single-chip smartphone product.”
Dr. Li added, “In addition to today’s news and in response to recent shareholder inquiries, we would like to provide additional clarification on our corporate structure. Our primary operations in China are conducted through a wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE), distinct from the variable interest entity (VIE) structures that are common in the China Internet sector and that have been the subject of recent press speculation with regards to possible PRC or US government review. There is no active investigation that we are aware of by either the China government or the US Department of Justice of our corporate structure or accounting practices, which adhere to conservative interpretation of US GAAP.”
Spreadtrum Counts on Taiwan’s Chipmakers to Win 3G Battle In China [Oct 3, 2011]
Spreadtrum Communications Inc. of mainland China has contracted Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and Advanced Semiconductor Engineering Inc. (ASE) to make its baseband chips designed on 40nm process rule amid white-hot competition among the mainland’s 3G chip vendors.
Spreadtrum has commanded a 56% share of the mainland market for the wireless chips specifically designed for mobile phones that are built on the TD-SCDMA (time-division synchronous code division multiple access) 3G format, which is spearheaded by China Mobile Co., Ltd.
The chip vendor recently completed a 40nm chip design, which it claimed consumes only two thirds of the electrical power that a 65nm chip does and brings down the cost of TD-SCDMA phone close to that of the 2.7G EDGE handset.
Spreadtrum has designated TSMC to make the chips and ASE to package the chips for it in conjunction with China Mobile’s plan to promote TD-SCDMA handsets during the 2012 Chinese New Year holidays, which will begin on Jan. 23.
The vendor will begin pilot production of its chips for the 4G TD-LTE (time division long term evolution) phones at the end of this year also at TSMC and ASE.
Industry executives expect Spreadtrum to retain the championship in the mainland’s market for the TD-based chips given that it has shied away competition against Taiwan’s MedaTek Inc. for a slice on WCDMA (wideband code division multiple access) market, where competition is keener among chip vendors than on TD-SCDMA market. In addition to MediaTek, competitors in the mainland’s WCDMA market include MStar Semiconductor Inc., Qualcomm Inc. and ST-Ericsson Inc.
The mainland now has around 100 million subscribers to 3G telecommunications service, which is mostly provided by China Telecom on CDMA2000 network, China Unicom on WCDMA network and China Mobile on TD-SCDMA network.
Plane to Line Switching (PLS) screen technology (Samsung)
Crisis Message of Aug 29, 2015 from Hunbiased: Immigration which I very much felt to share here before anything else of my own: “ Immigration is *the* topic in the news in Hungary. It’s what all newscasts lead with and it’s the issue that dominates the front pages. How bad is the situation? I take a look at some basic figures to see whether or not the current EU policies regarding immigration are fair and answer the question, “if Hungary is expected to absorb 140,000 people without batting an eyelid, how many people should Germany and the UK take?” ”
Plane to Line Switching (PLS) screen technology (Samsung)
Microsoft gives Samsung Windows 8 developer PCs to Build attendees, AT&T throws in 3G service [engadget, Sept 13, 2011]
… that PC comes complete with a second-gen Intel Core i5 processor, an 11.6-inch 1,366 x 768 Samsung Super PLS display, a 64GB SSD, 4GB of RAM, and a dock with a USB, HDMI and Ethernet ports.
[PLS-LCD only introduced in North America for the Galaxy 10.1 Tablet:] What Are The Benefits Of Using A PLS-LCD In My Wi-Fi GT-p7510 Galaxy 10.1 Tablet? [Samsung FAQ, Aug 6, 2011]
The GT-p7510 tablet comes with PLS-LCD touchscreen panel technology. The Plane to Line Switching technology is roughly 10% brighter (should help with better visibility in sunlight) and offers about 2x the increase in wide angle viewing compared to certain other LCD technologies. In addition, PLS-LCD offers the following below:
- Higher Contrast
- Decreased Power Consumption
- Response Time Faster
- Lesser Reflection
- Clearer Screen
Due to the cost of Super AMOLED displays, PLS-LCD was used in the GT-p7510 to remain price competitive in the marketplace with the 10.1 inch display.
PLS LCD @ Samsung SA850 [Feb 27, 2011]
New PLS (Plane to Line Switching) LCD technology by Samsung will be used in its professional monitors SA850
SyncMaster™ SA850 Series 27″ LED Monitor [June 27, 2011]
Samsung S27A850D 27” LED Monitor [March 21, 2011]
…
See perfect colours from wherever you sit
Maximise your viewing experience with Samsung’s superior PLS technology (Plane to Line Switching). Regular screens suffer from what is called Colour Shift, which reduces the picture quality and colour when viewed from an acute angle. The SA850, which can cover an amazing 178° viewing angle both vertically and horizontally, boasts a crisp and detailed picture by maintaining true-to-life colour, even when viewed from extreme angels, so the experience is vivid and brilliant.…
Samsung to Release LED Monitors with Super PLS, Best Fit for Specialists [SamsungTomorrow, Aug 23, 2011]
Samsung Electronics is to release three models of new LED monitor (S27A850, S24A650 and S24A350T) applying cutting-edge Super PLS (Plane to Line Switching) technology — which makes it possible for a viewer to watch in much wider viewing angles than models in the market.
The new LED monitors employed LED panels thus realizing Samsung TV’s iconic features like vivid resolution and eco-friendliness. This monitor line-up is said to be best fitting for professional users. The SyncMaster SA850, for example, is a 27-inch monitor, has a screen aspect ratio of 16:9 and a native resolution of 2560×1440 pixels. Such products are highly interesting in my opinion.
Samsung launches Evolutional Central Station and LED Monitor Lineup with Ultra High Quality LED Panels for Enterprises [Samsung press release, June 21, 2011]
…
Samsung SyncMaster SA850 series deploys Samsung’s own display technology, PLS panel, which covers 100% sRGB color space, providing excellent image output with the highest color accuracy. This is best-designed for industries such as graphic designs, publishing, filming and broadcasting. PLS panel also provides 178° wide viewing angle (both horizontally and vertically), and it enables users to view high quality images from any viewing positions. The Gamma Distortion Index of the PLS is less than 0.15, which meets the high demands of all users for the highest quality and flawless image.
…
Samsung SyncMaster SA850 is the first to implement Samsung’s own PLS panel. It has a 27″ WQHD screen which covers 100% sRGB color space, fulfilling the high requirements for image quality and color accuracy of professional users, such as photographers, architectures and advertising practitioners. PLS panel also delivers energy saving features. Comparing to conventional LCD monitor, its LED-backlight can save power consumption up to 36%. The 27″ 2048 x 1152 WQHD screen allows 178° wide viewing angle and produces vivid images with richer color.
…
Samsung to showcase TFT-LCD vs PLS-LCD vs Super-Amoled-Plus [Feb 22, 2011]
http://www.oled-display.net At the MWC-2011 Samsung show a comparison between a ordinary TFT-LCD against PLS-LCD (IPS type) and the brand new Super-Amoled-PLUS Display. More about OLED-Displays at http://www.oled-display.net
Samsung SyncMaster SA850: World’s First Monitor on PLS Matrix [X-bit labs, May 30, 2011]
Over a year ago Samsung made an attempt to introduce an alternative to mainstream TN-based products by releasing monitors with C-PVA matrixes. The SyncMaster F2080 and F2380 were not much of a success, however. Although Samsung claims that corporate users were eager to buy them, these models were not interesting for home users due to their high response time and some color rendering problems. Later on, Dell and some other brands introduced their e-IPS based products which met the mainstream requirements by having a reasonable price and well-balanced specs.
In late 2010 Samsung responded to e-IPS with its PLS technology. The name itself (it spells out as Plane-to-Line Switching) was quite a surprise for specialists because it was not a variant of the proprietary PVA technology but seemed to resemble IPS matrixes which were produced by Samsung’s largest competitor LG.
PLS technology was at first advertized as a solution for tablet PCs and mobile phones (high-quality matrixes are quite popular in these devices thanks to Apple’s backing and LG’s active participation) but then one monitor from the new 8 series, namely SyncMaster SA880, was declared to have a PLS matrix.
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Closer Look at Samsung’s Super PLS Matrix
Although the Super PLS technology (I will call it simply “PLS” below) was introduced by Samsung back in December 2010, there is still very little information disclosed about it. PLS matrixes were first showcased as displays of mobile devices. It was even rumored that Apple took a fancy to PLS and would use it in its iPad 2 (the rumors were wrong; the iPad 2 comes with IPS matrixes). In February, some scraps of information about the first full-featured PLS-based monitor, specs and photos, emerged.
We could only make guesses as to what the new matrix was like. PLS stands for Plane-to-Line Switching which sounds similar to IPS (In-Plane Switching), so PLS was supposed to be Samsung’s version of IPS. Samsung itself compared PLS with IPS, but that didn’t prove anything. The various versions of PVA matrixes were compared to IPS as well, just because IPS matrixes are manufactured by LG, Samsung’s largest competitor. Anyway, the comparisons put an emphasis on such facts as excellent viewing angles, lack of off-angle color distortions (tonal shift), a higher brightness and a lower cost.
It must be noted that we’ve already got a successor to the IPS technology which features a higher brightness and a lower cost. It is e-IPS which is manufactured by LG and is quickly gaining in popularity. The main downside, and not a very serious one, is that black gets lighter when the screen is viewed from a side.
For you to better understand the numerous types of modern LCD matrixes, I’ll just put down their highs and lows in this brief list:
- TN: low price, low response time (below 5 milliseconds GtG), average contrast ratio (600:1), poor viewing angles (especially vertical ones), significant off-angle color distortions.
- IPS: high price, average response time (5 to 10 milliseconds GtG), average contrast ratio (600:1), excellent viewing angles, minimal off-angle color distortions.
- PVA: high price, high response time (over 10 milliseconds GtG), high contrast ratio (over 1000:1), good viewing angles, noticeable off-angle color distortions.
- C-PVA: average price, high response time (over 10 milliseconds GtG), high contrast ratio (over 1000:1), good viewing angles, noticeable off-angle color distortions.
- E-IPS: average price, average response time (5 to 10 milliseconds GtG), average contrast ratio (600:1), good viewing angles, minimal off-angle color distortions.
As you can see, e-IPS matrixes are not rivaled directly by any other technology. They are comparable in price to C-PVA matrixes but have different properties. C-PVA matrixes boast a high contrast ratio but are limited in their applications due to their imperfect color rendering and high response time. I wouldn’t dismiss them altogether, yet an LCD matrix with a response time as high as 75 milliseconds can hardly be viewed as suitable for a versatile home monitor.
So, what does Samsung offer us under the name of Super PLS? To answer this question I’ve made macro photographs of pixels of different LCD matrixes.
This is the TN matrix of a Samsung SyncMaster SA950 monitor [the senior 3D model of the home-oriented 9 series … based on a TN matrix with a native resolution of 1920×1080 pixels and a maximum refresh rate of 120 Hz]. We see subpixels of solid colors with slanted corners. When the monitor’s brightness is reduced, the whole of a subpixel keeps on glowing. The photo lacks sharpness a little due to the antiglare coating of the screen (it’s glossy in the SA950, yet affects the quality of the photo anyway).
Here is the PVA matrix of a Dell 2407WFP at full brightness. We can see intricately shaped subpixels with a “waist” in the middle and diagonal segmentation. It’s hard to mistake this one for anything else.
This is the same PVA matrix at half brightness. Again, this matrix type is absolutely different from other technologies. We can see that only the ends of the subpixels are aglow while the middle is turned off.
That’s the e-IPS matrix of a Dell U2311H. The picture is blurred by its antiglare coating, yet we can see that each subpixel consists of two parts with a black line in the middle. The two halves of each subpixel are slightly segmented diagonally, like with PVA. As opposed to PVA, each subpixel is square and does not split in two parts at reduced brightness but keeps on glowing as a single whole.
And this is the PLS matrix of the Samsung SyncMaster SA850. It is obvious that its subpixels are closest to e-IPS. They have the same rectangular shape with a barely visible black line in the middle. It is hard to discern the details because of the monitor’s antiglare coating which, coupled with the small pixel pitch (0.233 millimeters), hindered my photographing. The subpixels of this matrix keep on glowing as a single whole at reduced brightness.
Thus, PLS matrixes do resemble e-IPS in terms of the subpixel structure as far as we can discern it. Let’s see if they also resemble e-IPS (or IPS) in technical properties.
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Brightness and Backlight Uniformity
The monitor’s Brightness and Contrast are set at 100% and 75%, respectively, by default. I achieved my reference point of 100-nit white at 30% Brightness and 48% Contrast.
The monitor regulates its brightness by modulating the power of its LEDs at a frequency of 180 Hz. The SA850 uses a white LED backlight, which helped make its case rather slim and light.
[so the monitor’s brightness is Black 0.58 and White 313 (nits)]
Unfortunately, the contrast ratio isn’t high at below 600:1. This is lower than the typical contrast ratio of e-IPS matrixes (600 to 700:1). The maximum brightness is high but you can easily make the screen as bright as is comfortable to you.
The three available MagicBright modes give you three different levels of brightness. The Cinema mode has a very odd color rendering setup (I’ll talk about them shortly) whereas the Standard and Game modes do not distort colors. For practical purposes, I guess that the monitor should be set up manually for a lower screen brightness than the Standard mode for productivity and Web applications, so you can use Standard for viewing photographs and playing games at night and switch into the Game mode for watching movies and playing games in the daytime.
The low contrast ratio may be due to the poor uniformity of the backlight. The picture based on the results of my measurements shows a bright spot in the center of the screen, just where I measured the contrast ratio. That spot is not as bright as the bottom left corner, though.
Although the extent of the variation in brightness is exaggerated in the picture for illustrative purposes, the monitor is obviously far from ideal, especially with black. Talking about the exact numbers, the average nonuniformity of brightness for black is 8% whereas the maximum deflection from the base level is as high as 45%! For white, the average and maximum are 3.6% and 8.3%, respectively. It’s hard to say why the monitor is so good with white and so poor with black, but the bright spot in the corner of the screen can be considered a defect. It is going to be conspicuous when watching movies, for example.
The viewing angles of the PLS matrix are excellent when the monitor shows a bright colorful image. I could see no color distortion or contrast deterioration even at large viewing angles, both vertically and horizontally.
There was one interesting thing with black. To illustrate it, I made a few photos of the monitor from different angles in a dark room. The monitor works at full brightness and displays a black fill.
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It is easy to see that the screen doesn’t get much brighter when viewed from a side, but the areas with backlight irregularities show some more light. Moreover, each such area has its own particular viewing angle at which it becomes the brightest. For example, the bright spot at the top of the screen moves rightwards in the last two photos.
For the comparison’s sake I will show you photos of an e-IPS matrix (Dell U2311H) under the same conditions.
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The brightening of black has nothing to do with backlight irregularities (which have a rather typical X-shaped pattern on this monitor). As the viewing angle gets larger, there appear yellow-colored symmetrical spots in the far corners of the screen. These spots get larger along with the viewing angle.
So, it looks like PLS is indeed superior to e-IPS in terms of viewing angles, especially on black, and can compete with the more expensive samples of IPS matrixes. Besides, my sample of SyncMaster SA850 with a PLS matrix is prevented from showing its best in this parameter by its backlight irregularities. When viewed from a side, its screen gets brighter the most in those areas where the backlight is the most irregular.
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Samsung claims that PLS matrixes with white LED backlight (that’s the kind of the matrix employed in the SA850) cover the entire range of sRGB colors. And that’s indeed so. The monitor’s color gamut triangle matches the sRGB one along one rib and is larger in the other two ribs. Thus, the SA850 is one of the few monitors that you can get an immaculately accurate sRGB gamut with by creating an appropriate profile with a calibrator and using that profile in your image-editing application.
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The Samsung SyncMaster SA850 with its Super PLS matrix is not an ideal monitor, but it’s good.
Samsung has indeed begun to manufacture LCD matrixes which are similar to IPS and capable of competing with e-IPS in price and beating them in specs, especially in terms of viewing angles. PLS matrixes do not have the annoying effect of e-IPS ones which show a brighter black when viewed from a side. Considering the comparable price, PLS makes a more appealing option.
On the other hand, it is yet too early to talk about any competition with e-IPS on the market of desktop monitors. PLS is only going to be available in a single product so far. And while the 27-inch SA850 (S27A850) is interesting due to its high resolution, it can hardly challenge mainstream 21.5- and 23-inch e-IPS based monitors.
It should also be noted that Samsung becomes the only company to produce LCD matrixes of all possible types: TN, VA (C-PVA for the SyncMaster F2380 and S-PVA for TV-sets and large info boards), and now PLS which is functionally similar to IPS technology. This may be due to the company’s ongoing search for the most promising and demanded solutions. Instead of making its decisions in labs and at internal meetings, the company releases products with all technologies available to it in order to check out the reaction of real users. This approach brings about more choices but, on the other hand, the buyer may easily get confused.
As for the SyncMaster SA850, this particular product seems quite competitive to me.
Highs:
- Serious exterior design, good functionality and handy controls
- High native resolution
- Low response time, good color rendering, excellent viewing angles
- Full coverage of the sRGB color space
- Matte coating of the screen that is free from glares and graininess
- Three digital inputs and a USB 3.0 hub
- Ambient lighting sensor
Lows
- Low contrast ratio
- Poor uniformity of backlight for black
Even now, three months prior to its official release, this model has more highs than lows. If the manufacturer gets rid of the backlight irregularities, the SyncMaster SA850 will easily become one of the best products in its class and an indispensible solution for people who need a high resolution and good color rendering but cannot afford a 30-inch monitor. The SA850 will also be good as a versatile home monitor.
I hope that PLS matrixes will go beyond 27-inch monitors and into 23-inch and 24-inch products at prices comparable to those of the same-size e-IPS models. After all, if PLS is planned for such different devices as 10-inch tablet PCs and 27-inch desktop monitors, there must be no technical problems with producing a 23-inch PLS matrix. I’m now waiting for Samsung to release one!
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 Review: The Sleekest Honeycomb Tablet [AnandTech, June 13, 2011]
A Beautiful Display
Other than form factor, the 10.1’s display is the only other major advantage Samsung holds over ASUS. While the Eee Pad’s display is quantifiably similar to Apple’s iPad 2, it does fall victim to an incredible amount of glare. There’s a sizable gap between the LCD panel and the outermost glass, which results in more glare than most other tablets we’ve reviewed this generation. The 10.1 however doesn’t suffer this fate and as a result is more directly comparable to the iPad 2.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (left) vs. ASUS Eee Pad Transformer (right)
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 (left) vs. Apple iPad 2 (right)While both ASUS and Apple use an IPS panel in their tablets, Samsung uses its own technology called Super PLS (plane line switching). Brian Klug, our resident smartphone and display guru did some digging and it turns out that Super PLS is Samsung’s own take on IPS that maintains viewing angle while boosting throughput (brightness). The Samsung supplied photo below shows a comparison of the tradeoff you make with S-IPS and I-IPS, as well as both of those compared to Super PLS:
Traditionally you’d have to trade off viewing angle for brightness or vice versa even within the IPS family. Super PLS lets you have your cake and eat it too, giving you the same side viewing angles as S-IPS but with the light throughput of I-IPS.
Perhaps due to the use of Super PLS, Samsung actually managed to outfit the Galaxy Tab 10.1 with a brighter panel than what we saw with the iPad 2. Black levels aren’t quite as good but peak brightness is measurably better at nearly 500 nits. While the display isn’t what I’d consider bright enough to use in direct sunlight, it is more versatile than the iPad 2’s as a result of its brightness.
The higher black levels balance out the brighter panel and deliver a contrast ratio comparable to that of the iPad 2:
I should mention that the quality of the panel on the retail 10.1 sample is significantly better than what I saw with Samsung’s Galaxy Tab 10.1 Limited Edition at Google IO. The sample from IO had noticeably worse black levels, lower peak brightness and as a result lower overall contrast. On top of all of that, the LE suffered light bleed from one of its corners – a problem I haven’t seen on the retail 10.1. With only two Galaxy Tabs to compare this is either an indication of wildly varying quality control, or more likely that Samsung simply repackaged its early samples as LEs and saved the mass production hardware for paying customers a month after Google IO.
As you can see in the shot above the Samsung panel has a considerably cooler white point than the Eee Pad Transformer. A quick measure with our colorimeter shows a white point of 8762 (vs 7805K for the Eee Pad). It does make Samsung’s default wallpaper look very pretty. If you’re wondering, the iPad 2’s panel is calibrated to a 6801K white point – at least with our 16GB CDMA sample here.
Samsung reloaded more possibilities on the go with GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus [Samsung press release, Sept 30, 2011]
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a leading mobile device provider, today announced the launch of the GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus. Offering a portable, rich multimedia experience on a 7-inch display, the GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus packs power and productivity into a chic lightweight design. The GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus runs Google AndroidTM Honeycomb, enabling an easy and intuitive user experience.
“Samsung pioneered the seven-inch tablet market with the launch of the GALAXY Tab, marking an innovation milestone in the mobile industry. Building on the success of the GALAXY Tab, we’re now delighted to introduce the GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus reloaded with enhanced portability, productivity and a richer multimedia experience” said JK Shin, President and Head of Samsung’s Mobile Communications Business. He added “GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus is for those who want to stay productive and in touch with work, friends and content anytime, anywhere.”
Enhanced Portability
With 7-inch display, GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus provides enhanced portability, weighing just 345g and measuring at just 9.96mm thin. Enhanced portability ensures that it fits easily into an inside-jacket pocket or a handbag, making it an ideal device for those who need to stay productive and entertained while on-the-move.
Advanced Productivity
GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus delivers a smooth and intuitive user experience with powerful performance powered by 1.2GHz dual core processor. Mini Apps allows seamless multitasking by consolidating 7 applications easily accessed from a bottom-side tray on main screen. Users can launch favorite features such as music player or calendar as pop-ups over full screen applications. Not only that, users can design an individualized up-to-the-minute interface through Live Panel.
Web browsing is also enhanced by Adobe Flash and super-fast HSPA＋ connectivity, providing download speeds up to three times faster than a conventional HSPA connection. On top of that Wi-Fi Channel Bonding bonds two channels into one for improved network connection and data transfer at up to twice the speed.
Furthermore, the GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus offers voice and video call support, with no need for a headset.
Users can see friends and family from anywhere in the world in high quality thanks to the device’s larger screen.Rich Multimedia on-the-move
Full HD videos can be enjoyed on the 7-inch WSVGA PLS display, with DivX & multi codec support ensuring the device is capable of supporting a variety of different formats. An improved virtual clipboard, which stores text and images enabling easy copy and paste, further adds to these capabilities.
Additionally, the GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus features Social Hub, Readers Hub and Music Hub services. Social Hub aggregates the user’s contacts, calendar and email along with instant messaging and social networking connections all within one easy-to-use interface. Readers Hub provides e-reading content such as e-books, newspapers and magazines. Music Hub enables access to over 13 million songs even when out and about.
GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus will be available starting in Indonesia and Austria from end-October and gradually rolled to globally including Southeast and Southwest Asia, US, Europe, CIS, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and China.
For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com/
Samsung GALAXY Tab 7.0 Plus Product Specifications
Network
HSPA＋ (HSDPA 21Mbps/HSUPA5.76Mbps) 900/1900/2100EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900 Processor
1.2GHz Dual Core Display
7-inch WSVGA(1024X600) PLS LCD OS
Android 3.2 (Honeycomb) Camera
Main(Rear) : 3 MP AF with LED Flash
Sub (Front) : 2 MPAction Shot, Panorama Shot, Smile ShotVideo
Codec : MPEG4, Divx, Xvid, H263, H.264, VC-1, WMV7/8, VP8
Format: 3GP,MPEG4, WMV, AVI, MKVPlayback : 1080p Full HD
Recording : 720p HDAudio
Codec : MP3,WMA, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, AAC, AAC＋, e-AAC＋, AC-3, Flac Midi(SMF), WAV, OGG
apt-X Bluetooth Codec
Music Player with SoundAliveValue-added Features
Samsung Apps Samsung Kies 2.0
Samsung Kies air (downloadable via Samsung Apps)Samsung TouchWiz : Live Panel, Mini Apps Social Hub
– Integrated Messaging(Email, SMS, SNS, MMS), Contacts/ Calendar Sync
– POP3/IMAP Email & Exchange Active SyncReaders Hub/Music Hub
(will be available for download via Samsung Apps after launch)Google™ Mobile Services
– Gmail™, Google Talk™, Google Search™, YouTube™, Android Market™,
– Google Maps™Smart Remote Enterprise Solutions Adobe Flash Document Editor Connectivity
Bluetooth® technology v 3.0
USB 2.0 HS & Host
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n (2.4 & 5 GHz)
Wi-Fi Channel bonding & Wi-Fi DirectSensor
Accelerometer, Gyro, Digital compass, Ambient Light, Proximity Memory
1GB(RAM) ＋ 16/32GB Internal memory ＋ microSD (up to 32GB) Size
193.65 x 122.37 x 9.96 mm, 345g Battery
Li-on 4,000 mAh
$199 Kindle Fire: Android 2.3 with specific UI layer and cloud services
Follow-up: Kindle Fire with its $200 price pushing everybody up, down or out of the Android tablet market [Dec 8, 2011]
Suggested preliminary reading (although the 7″ Kindle Fire has an IPS screen, the 10″ coming in 2012 may have the FFS?): Amazon Tablet PC with E Ink Holdings’ Hydis FFS screen [May 3, 2011]
Updates: Chimei Innolux to Supply Panels to 2nd-Gen. Kindle Fire [Dec 21, 2011]
Chimei Innolux Corp., the largest maker of thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD) panels in Taiwan, recently won Amazon`s order for panels used in its Kindle Fire second-generation tablet PCs.
The company is already a panel supplier to Apple`s iPad 2, and the new order from Kindle Fire would further consolidate Chimei Innolux`s leading position in Taiwan in supplying tablet-use panels.
Industry sources said that tablet-PC panel is one of a few panel models still generating profits now for panel suppliers, so the new order is expected to have positive effects on Chimei Innolux`s operation.
The first-generation Kindle Fire was contract assembled by local Quanta Computer Inc. using panels supplied by Korean company LG Display and Taiwanese maker E Ink Holdings Inc. (formerly known as Prime View International Co., Ltd., who contracted local Chunghwa Picture Tubes, Ltd., or CPT to produce the panels).
Hon Hai Group of Taiwan reportedly won the contract-assembly order for the second-generation Kindle Fire, allowing its affiliate Chimei Innolux to supply the panels.
Data compiled by market research firm iSuppli showed that Chimei Innolux ranked as the world`s No. 3 supplier of tablet-PC panels, trailing only LG Display and Samsung. With the new order from Amazon, Chimei Innolux`s market share is expected to rise further, industry sources said.
– Jeff Bezos Owns the Web in More Ways Than You Think [Wired, Nov 13, 2011]
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Bezos doesn’t consider the Fire a mere device, preferring to call it a “media service.” While he takes pride in the Fire, he really sees it as an advanced mobile portal to Amazon’s cloud universe. That’s how Amazon has always treated the Kindle: New models simply offer improved ways of buying and reading the content. Replacing the hardware is no more complicated or emotionally involved than changing a flashlight battery.
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Competing Visions
The Kindle Fire isn’t just a rival to the iPad. It represents an alternate model of computing: It’s Apple’s post-PC vs. Amazon’s post-web.
Apple: Post-PC
Amazon: Post-Web
Device-centric
Cloud-centric
Own the OS
Forget the OS
Specialized apps
Specialized browser
Hardware is king
Content is king
Downloaded media
Streamed media
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How Amazon Powers the Internet
It began as a way for Amazon’s engineers to work together efficiently. Now Amazon Web Services hosts some of the most popular sites on the web and is responsible for a significant amount of the world’s online traffic. Here’s a look at some of the companies that rely on Amazon’s cloud computing platform.
Customer
What it uses Amazon Web Services for
Foursquare
3 million check-ins a day
Harvard Medical School
Vast database for developing genome-analysis models
NASA Jet Propulsion Lab
Processing of hi-res satellite images to help guide its robots
Netflix
Video streaming service that accounts for 25% of US Internet traffic
Newsweek/The Daily Beast
1 million pageviews every hour
PBS
More than 1 petabyte of streaming video a month
SmugMug
Storage for 70 million photos
US Department of Agriculture
Geographic information system for food-stamp recipients
Virgin Atlantic
Crowdsourced travel review service
Yelp
Data storage for its 22 million-plus reviews
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Levy: You’ve leveraged Amazon Web Services by making use of it in your new Silk browser. Why?
Bezos: One of the things that makes mobile web browsing slow is the fact that the average website pulls content from 13 different places on the Internet. On a mobile device, even with a good Wi-Fi connection, each round trip is typically 100 milliseconds or more. Some of that can be done in parallel, but you typically have a whole bunch, as many as eight or more round trips that each take 100 milliseconds. That adds up. We’ve broken apart this process. If you can be clever enough to move the computation onto our cloud platform, you get these huge computational resources. Our cloud services are really fast. What takes 100 milliseconds on Wi-Fi takes less than 5 milliseconds on Amazon’s Elastic Compute Cloud. So by moving some of the computation onto that cloud, we can accelerate a lot of what makes mobile web browsing slow.
Levy: Was it difficult to turn yourself from a retail company into a consumer electronics company?
Bezos: It’s not as different as you might think. A lot of our original approaches and techniques carried over very well. For example, we’ve always focused on reducing the time between order and delivery. In hardware, it’s the same principle. An example is the time between when we take delivery on a processor to when it’s being used in a device by a customer. That’s waste. Why would we own a processor that’s supposed to go into a Kindle Fire that’s not actually in a customer’s hands? That’s inventory management.
Levy: By the way, how many Kindles have you sold?
[Bezos gives a long, loud example of his famous laugh.]
Levy: You don’t even answer!
Bezos: I know you don’t expect me to.
Levy: For years you’ve been touting e-ink as superior to a backlit device for reading. But the Fire is backlit. Why should Kindle users switch?
Bezos: They should buy both. When you’re reading long-form, there’s no comparison. You want the e-ink. But you can’t watch a movie with that. And you can’t play Android games. And so on.
Levy: And you now are selling a new version of the basic Kindle for $79. At this point, why not give it away—offer a deal where if people buy a certain amount of books, they get a free Kindle?
Bezos: It’s an interesting marketing idea, and we should think about it over time. But $79 is low enough that it’s not a big deal for many people.
Levy: Speaking of pricing, I wanted to ask about your decision to include streaming video as part of Amazon Prime. Why not charge separately for that? It’s a completely different service, isn’t it?
Bezos: There are two ways to build a successful company. One is to work very, very hard to convince customers to pay high margins. The other is to work very, very hard to be able to afford to offer customers low margins. They both work. We’re firmly in the second camp. It’s difficult—you have to eliminate defects and be very efficient. But it’s also a point of view. We’d rather have a very large customer base and low margins than a smaller customer base and higher margins.
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Media Powerhouse
Amazon has stealthily become a major player in the competitive content business, with a major footprint in every medium. Meanwhile, its web services division owns one-fifth of the cloud computing market.
…
– Amazon increases Kindle Fire orders [Nov 10, 2011]
Amazon has recently increased its Kindle Fire orders to more than five million units before the end of 2011 as pre-orders for the machine remain strong, according to sources from upstream component suppliers.
Amazon already raised its order volume once in the middle of the third quarter, up from 3.5 million units originally to four million units.
Since the company estimates that demand for Kindle Fire will become even stronger at the end of 2011, Amazon has further increased its orders. Amazon’s upstream partners including Wintek, Chunghwa Picture Tubes (CPT), LG Display, Ilitek, Quanta Computer, Aces Connectors and Wah Hong Industrial will all benefit from the short-term orders.
UMC Becomes Exclusive Supplier of Kindle Fire’s Processors [Nov 10, 2011]
Benefitting from the launch of Amazon’s tablet PC Kindle Fire, Taiwan-based United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC), one of world’s largest semiconductor foundries, has landed orders from Texas Instruments to exclusively supply ARM processors for the devices, becoming part of Amazon’s supply chain.
With some 215,000 Kindle Fire tablets sold in the first week of launch, the device, ranked in the top-10 gifts for Christmas, is regarded the biggest challenger to the Apple iPad. Optimistic about its constantly growing popularity, market researchers have also raised fourth-quarter sales projections for the Kindle Fire to 5 million units.
Hot sales of Kindle Fire bodes well for UMC as the Taiwanese company is to exclusively supply Texas Instruments OMAP4430 through the 45-nano process. The OMAP4430 is a dual-core 1GHz processor based on ARM architecture, and is widely adopted in a variety of smartphones and tablet PCs, including Motorola’s Droid 3 and Droid RAZR, Fujitsu-Toshiba’s Arrows Z, Panasonic’s Lumix and Toshiba’s Regza.
UMC’s business ties with Texas Instruments have increasingly grown recently, reflected in the influx of orders for the new OMAP4 series processors, contrasted against TI’s erstwhile reliance on mainly Korea’s Samsung Electronics for its older OMAP3 series processors.
Industry insiders indicated that UMC’s capacity utilization rate at the 12-inch wafer foundry will improve significantly in the fourth quarter, thanks to TI’s increasing orders.
Amazon.com Management Discusses Q3 2011 Results – Earnings Call Transcript – Q@A – Seeking Alpha [Oct 25, 2011]
HEAVY Amazon investments into the future:
We’re seeing the best growth which we’ve seen since 2000, meaning in 2010 and so far over the past 12 months ending September.
1. And so with this strong growth, we’re investing in a lot of capacity … we had announced 15 new fulfillment centers this year that’s on a basis of 52 from last year. And then we’d likely open one or two more. We are actually going to be opening 17 new fulfillment centers. …
2. We’re investing to support retail growth fulfilled by Amazon growth, fast-growing AWS business, as well as infrastructure to support our retail business.
3. We’re investing in our Kindle and Digital business. … if you take a look at our Kindle business, for example, we’ve launched 4 new products at the end of September, and we’re very, very excited about those products. They’re at great prices, and they are certainly premium products. And so we’re very excited about those. And we think about the economics of the Kindle business, we think about the totality. We think of the lifetime value of those devices. So we’re not just thinking about the economics of the device and the accessories. We’re thinking about the content. We are selling quite a bit of Special Offers devices which includes ads. We’re thinking about the advertisement and those Special Offers and those lifetime values.
Because according to Amazon.com Management Discusses Q3 2011 Results – Earnings Call Transcript [Oct 25, 2011]:
North America segment operating income decreased 23% to $144 million, a 2.4% operating margin. … Consolidated segment operating income decreased 35% to $260 million or 2.4% of revenue down approximately 290 basis points year-over-year. … For Q4 2011 … We anticipate consolidated segment operating income, which excludes stock-based compensation and other operating expense, to be between $0 and $450 million or between 100% decline and 28% decline.
End of Updates
Amazon Kindle Fire Official Presentation [Sept 28, 2011]
Kindle Fire [product site]
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Fast, Dual-Core Processor [1GHz TI OMAP 4, 512MB RAM]Kindle Fire features a state-of-the-art dual-core processor for fast, powerful performance. Stream music while browsing the web or read books while downloading videos.
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Amazon WhispersyncLike Kindle e-readers, Kindle Fire uses Amazon’s Whispersync technology to automatically sync your library, last page read, bookmarks, notes, and highlights across your devices. On Kindle Fire, Whispersync extends to video. Start streaming a movie on Kindle Fire, then pick up right where you left off on your TV – avoid the frustration of having to find your spot. Learn more
Free Month of Amazon Prime
Experience the benefits that millions of Amazon Prime members already enjoy, including unlimited, instant streaming of over 10,000 popular movies and TV shows and Free Two-Day Shipping on millions of items. Learn more
…
Technical Details
Display 7″ multi-touch display with IPS (in-plane switching) technology and anti-reflective treatment, 1024 x 600 pixel resolution at 169 ppi, 16 million colors. Size (in inches) 7.5″ x 4.7″ x 0.45″ (190 mm x 120 mm x 11.4 mm). Weight 14.6 ounces (413 grams). System Requirements None, because it’s wireless and doesn’t require a computer. On-device Storage 8GB internal. That’s enough for 80 apps, plus either 10 movies or 800 songs or 6,000 books. Cloud Storage Free cloud storage for all Amazon content Battery Life Up to 8 hours of continuous reading or 7.5 hours of video playback, with wireless off. Battery life will vary based on wireless usage, such as web browsing and downloading content. Charge Time Fully charges in approximately 4 hours via included U.S. power adapter. Also supports charging from your computer via USB. Wi-Fi Connectivity Supports public and private Wi-Fi networks or hotspots that use the 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, or 802.1X standard with support for WEP, WPA and WPA2 security using password authentication; does not support connecting to ad-hoc (or peer-to-peer) Wi-Fi networks. USB Port USB 2.0 (micro-B connector) Audio 3.5 mm stereo audio jack, top-mounted stereo speakers. Content Formats Supported Kindle (AZW), TXT, PDF, unprotected MOBI, PRC natively, Audible (Audible Enhanced (AA, AAX)), DOC, DOCX, JPEG, GIF, PNG, BMP, non-DRM AAC, MP3, MIDI, OGG, WAV, MP4, VP8. Documentation Quick Start Guide(included in box); Kindle User’s Guide (pre-installed on device) Warranty and Service 1-year limited warranty and service included. Optional 2-year Extended Warranty available for U.S. customers sold separately. Use of Kindle is subject to the terms found here. Included in the Box Kindle Fire device, U.S. power adapter (supports 100-240V), and Quick Start Guide.
Amazon launches Kindle Fire [The Telegraph, Sept 28, 2011]
… Decked out in jeans, white shirt and a jacket, Amazon’s founder and chief executive, Jeff Bezos, told an audience in New York that “this is unbelievable value. What we’re doing is making premium products and offering them at non-premium prices.”
Mr Bezos also claimed that the ability of Amazon to store all the content users download on the internet will prove a key selling point. “All of the content on this device is backed up on the cloud,” said Mr Bezos. “The model where you have to back up your own content is a broken model.”
Live from the Amazon Kindle Fire Launch [Mashable, Sept 28, 2011]
The Fire’s interface bears no resemblance to any Android tablet (or phone) on the market. Its home screen looks like a bookshelf, with access to recently accessed content and Apps (books, movies and music) and another shelf to pin favorites or frequently used items. At the top of the screen is search and menu accessto Newsstand (for magazines), books, music, movies, apps and docs.
… There are no ports to connect the Fire to your HDTV, but if you have a device that supports Amazon Prime connected to your TV, you can switch from watching a movie on the Fire to your TV. Whispersync will ensure that the movie starts just where you left off.
… The biggest innovation of all may be Amazon Silk, the company’s home-grown browser that uses the power of Amazon’s own cloud servers to offload Web page building duties. It can even, Amazon promised, prefetch the next page it thinks you’ll view.
Kindle Fire Tablet: The 3 Biggest Disappointments [Sept 29, 2011]
… the Kindle Fire lacks three really important features that a tablet needs to have.
#1. No memory expansion. There are no memory card slots, and no USB host (it has a mini USB port for transferring files). No matter what you are stuck with the 8GB of storage that it comes with. Sure, the Kindle Fire comes with free cloud storage, but that only applies to Amazon’s content.
#2. No HDMI port. I can’t believe the Kindle Fire with it’s access to 100,000 movies and TV shows doesn’t have an HDMI port. Even crappy sub-$150 tablets like the Pandigital Starhave an HDMI out port for connecting to a TV.
#3. The Kindle Fire runs on Android 2.3 Gingerbread, but it is closed off. It’s not like a regular open Android tablet with a customizable homescreen, widgets, Android Market, or any of that. It has Amazon’s customized interface and the Amazon appstore. The Kindle Fire may run Android but it is an Amazon tablet, not an Android tablet (hackers will fix that in about 2 days after its release).
Don’t get me wrong, the Kindle Fire is a good starter tablet for Amazon. It has a lot of nice features, especially the IPS screen and dual-core processor, and will compete with the Nook Color very well, but it certainly isn’t breaking any new ground in the tablet world.
Amazon: The Kindle Fire Will Get Rooted [Sept 28, 2011]
Amazon’s new Kindle Fire tablet has a great user interface, but many of our readers already want to get rid of it. That’s OK. Amazon isn’t doing anything special to prevent techies from “rooting” and rewriting the software on its powerful yet inexpensive new tablet, Jon Jenkins, director of Amazon’s Silk browser projectsaid.
“It’s going to get rooted, and what you do after you root it is up to you,” Jenkins said.
(Curious about rooting? Check out our Concise Guide to Android Rooting, which explains what the fuss is about.)
Amazon’s Kindle Fire is powered by the cloud [GigaOM, Sept 28, 2011]
The Kindle Fire also taps into Amazon’s cloud infrastructure to offer free cloud storage and backup of all content, so users don’t have to worry about irrevocably deleting something from local storage. And there’s also simple wireless syncing and integration of Amazon’s Whispersync technology in movies and TV shows, so users can keep their places in videos when they switch from one device to another.
…
Amazon has built its own interface layer that hides the Android underpinnings. It’s an approach that Barnes & Noble also undertook with its Nook Color. The interface on the Fire looks great and seems extremely snappy. Users get a search bar at the top and then a selection of books, music, video, docs, apps and the web. There’s a carousel of recently added content and then a shelf for favorites.
…
UPDATE: Here are some more details on the Kindle Fire. It will ship with its own email application that supports IMAP and POP3, but the Fire will rely on third-party apps to provide Exchange support for email. The device will also ship with contacts, shopping and gallery apps but no calendar app. Users will be able to sideload their own content, including photos and videos, with most of the popular formats accepted.
Amazon will go through its Appstore for Android, which has more than 15,000 apps, and filter out those apps that won’t work on the Kindle Fire for users who visit the store from a Kindle Fire. The company is approaching app developers to build new apps and optimize existing titles for the Kindle Fire, but it’s not putting out its own SDK. Instead it will encourage them to use Google’s existing tools. Amazon has started talks with Twitter, Facebook, Pandora and Netflix to optimize apps for Kindle Fire, but it’s too early to say what will happen.
Kindle Fire Live Demo [Sept 28, 2011]
Introducing Amazon Silk [Amazon Silk blog, Sept 28, 2011]
Today in New York, Amazon introduced Silk, an all-new web browser powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and available exclusively on the just announced Kindle Fire. You might be asking, “A browser? Do we really need another one?” As you’ll see in the video below, Silk isn’t just another browser. We sought from the start to tap into the power and capabilities of the AWS infrastructure to overcome the limitations of typical mobile browsers. Instead of a device-siloed software application, Amazon Silk deploys a split-architecture. All of the browser subsystems are present on your Kindle Fire as well as on the AWS cloud computing platform. Each time you load a web page, Silk makes a dynamic decision about which of these subsystems will run locally and which will execute remotely. In short, Amazon Silk extends the boundaries of the browser, coupling the capabilities and interactivity of your local device with the massive computing power, memory, and network connectivity of our cloud.
We’ll have a lot more to say about Amazon Silk in the coming weeks and months, so please check back with us often. You can also follow us on Twitter at @AmazonSilk. Finally, if you’re interested in learning more about career opportunities on the Amazon Silk team, please visit our jobs page.
Amazon Silk—Amazon’s Revolutionary Cloud-Accelerated Web Browser [Kindle, Sept 28, 2011]
Amazon Silk: Bridging the gap between desktop and mobile web browsers [ExtremeTech article, Sept 28, 2011]
… Silk is WebKit-based, uses Google’s SDPY HTTP-replacement protocol, supports Flash 10 — and no, despite what it sounds like, Silk is not comparable to Opera Mini.
…
If you’ve used Opera Mini — an existing browser that you can use on almost every phone platform — Amazon Silk certainly sounds similar, but it’s important to note that Silk does not send out images of the content; all of the assets arrive on your Kindle Fire tablet, so you get a full browsing experience. With regards to video content, we are told that Amazon Silk doesn’t transcode content — but presumably the dual-core processor in the Kindle Fire and Flash support is enough to handle most YouTube videos.
By leveraging EC2 and S3, Amazon can also do a few other clever things with Silk. For a start, Amazon can cache static files in the cloud — images, CSS, JavaScript — further speeding up page load times on the Kindle Fire. Amazon says that EC2 keep permanent connections open to popular sites like Facebook and Google, too, reducing latency by a few more milliseconds — and if that wasn’t enough, Amazon EC2 will also use predictive algorithms to pre-download the link that it thinks you will click next. Finally, the use of SPDYinstead of HTTP between Kindle Fire and EC2 should result in Silk being much, much faster than comparable Android or iOS browsers.
With regards to privacy, because all of your web requests will go through the cloud, your surfing will effectively be fully anonymous — target websites will see Amazon’s IP addresses, not yours. If you’re worried about Amazonsniffing your data, though, you can turn off “EC2 acceleration” in the browser’s settings.
All in all, then, Amazon Silk will be faster than the competition, it will save everyone (except Amazon) bandwidth costs, and it will even provide a little more security. One important fact is unknown, though: what version of WebKit is Amazon Silk using? Is it closer to desktop versions of Chrome and Safari, or is it like Android 2.3′s stock browser? Has Amazon designed the Kindle Fire to be a first-rate device for HTML5 web apps, or merely a content-consumption machine? We probably won’t find out until we receive a review unit for some real hands-on testing and benchmarks — which will hopefully be in the next few weeks.
Opera: Amazon’s Silk Browser is Flattering, But Five Years Late [Sept 28, 2011]
According to Mahi de Silva, executive vice president for Consumer Mobile at Opera Software ASA, however, the concept of rendering a complex Web page in the cloud and sending an optimized version down to the client is already in several Opera products today. Opera Mini applies compression to most interactions with the Internet while on a mobile device, and Opera Mobile refines this for the Web. Opera’s desktop browseralso has a “turbo mode” that allows the optimization to take place on the desktop, as well.
In all, Opera already does the sort of cloud optimization that Amazon Silk claims to do, deSilva said. OnLive’s Steve Perlman, who runs a cloud gaming service, has also talked about how easy it would be to provide a cloud-based browser, given the fact that it can push an entire remotely-rendered video game down to the client. However, de Silva endorsed the Silk concept.
“It’s very helpful for the consumer because you get a snappier, consistent quality, and also a less expensive experience,” as well as a boon to operators to reduce their own network congestion, de Silva said.
“We’re very flattered that Amazon chose to replicate something that we’ve had in the marketplace for a long time,” de Silva added. “It’s a good reflection of sort of that value proposition of having cloud-based browsing solutions, and also having the ability to switch full featured version – for example, [within Opera] if you want to support full HTML 5 interaction, Javascript, and Flash, you’re in a native browsing mode, but if you don’t encounter a lot of that content, you can be in [an optimized] browsing mode, and you can overlay that to some extent.”
“We’ve been doing this in mobile for five years as a key feature, and with the Opera browser, even longer,” de Silva said.
The performance of Silk is accelerated by the fact that users who need to wait for a browser to connect and download to dozens of Web objects, many of them relying on different domains, Amazon engineers said. The portion of the Amazon Silk browser that lies on the Amazon EC2 infrastructure can quickly negotiate and fetch those objects, connecting to the Web through Amazon’s “fat pipes”. Those who wish can also surf in “off-cloud” mode, somewhat anonymizing the experience.
“I’m sure you’ve had the experience, where you’re on a page, and you’re hanging, and you’re saying, I wish I was on a better network,” said Peter Voshall, a distinguished engineer for Amazon. “We’re on a better network. Our back end has some of the fattest pipes you’ll ever find, and we do all the heavy listing on the back end.”
Still, de Silva said it was doubtful that users will ever see a marked difference in performance between Opera’s implementation and what Amazon offers, based on its infrastructure connections alone. Opera also caches data that’s frequently accessed by many users in a content delivery network (CDN) close by, so that all of Opera’s users don’t have to ping cnn.com to constantly download the logo graphic.
De Silva called Silk a “smart move” for Amazon, one that will provides an always-on, connected experience. Consumers will have to decide for themselves what the effect of Silk will be on their browsing experience, and whether or not it will differentiate it from other manufacturers.
“Over 200 million unique users per month use this,” de Silva said of the Opera cloud browser technology. “Will Amazon ship 200 million devices anytime soon? Probably not.”
Amazon’s Kindle Fire is powered by the cloud [GigaOM, Sept 28, 2011]
The Kindle Fire also taps into Amazon’s cloud infrastructure to offer free cloud storage and backup of all content, so users don’t have to worry about irrevocably deleting something from local storage. And there’s also simple wireless syncing and integration of Amazon’s Whispersync technology in movies and TV shows, so users can keep their places in videos when they switch from one device to another.
…
Amazon has built its own interface layer that hides the Android underpinnings. It’s an approach that Barnes & Noble also undertook with its Nook Color. The interface on the Fire looks great and seems extremely snappy. Users get a search bar at the top and then a selection of books, music, video, docs, apps and the web. There’s a carousel of recently added content and then a shelf for favorites.
…
UPDATE: Here are some more details on the Kindle Fire. It will ship with its own email application that supports IMAP and POP3, but the Fire will rely on third-party apps to provide Exchange support for email. The device will also ship with contacts, shopping and gallery apps but no calendar app. Users will be able to sideload their own content, including photos and videos, with most of the popular formats accepted.
Amazon will go through its Appstore for Android, which has more than 15,000 apps, and filter out those apps that won’t work on the Kindle Fire for users who visit the store from a Kindle Fire. The company is approaching app developers to build new apps and optimize existing titles for the Kindle Fire, but it’s not putting out its own SDK. Instead it will encourage them to use Google’s existing tools. Amazon has started talks with Twitter, Facebook, Pandora and Netflix to optimize apps for Kindle Fire, but it’s too early to say what will happen.
Introducing the All-New Kindle Family: Four New Kindles, Four Amazing Price Points [Amazon press release, Sept 28, 2011]
… and Kindle Fire – a new class of Kindle that brings the same ease-of-use and deep integration of content that helped Kindle re-invent reading – to movies, TV shows, music, magazines, apps, books, games, and more.
… said Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com Founder and CEO. “Kindle Fire brings together all of the things we’ve been working on at Amazon for over 15 years into a single, fully-integrated service for customers. With Kindle Fire, you have instant access to all the content, free storage in the Amazon Cloud, the convenience of Amazon Whispersync, our revolutionary cloud-accelerated web browser, the speed and power of a state-of-the-art dual-core processor, a vibrant touch display with 16 million colors in high resolution, and a light 14.6 ounce design that’s easy to hold with one hand – all for only $199. We’re offering premium products, and we’re doing it at non-premium prices.”
…
New Class of Kindle–“Kindle Fire”–Only $199
All The Content–Over 18 Million Movies, TV Shows, Songs, Apps, Games, Books, and Magazines
Kindle Fire puts Amazon’s incredible selection of digital content at your fingertips:
- Over 100,000 movies and TV shows from Amazon Instant Video, including thousands of new releases and popular TV shows, available to stream or download, purchase or rent – all just one tap away. Amazon Prime Members enjoy instant, unlimited, commercial-free streaming of over 11,000 movies and TV shows at no additional cost. Kindle Fire comes with one free month of Amazon Prime.
- Over 17,000,000 songs from Amazon MP3, including new and bestselling albums from just $7.99 and individual songs from $0.69.
- Over 1,000,000 Kindle books, including thousands of bestsellers, children’s books, comic books and cookbooks in rich color.
- 100 exclusive graphic novels, including Watchmen, the bestselling – and considered by many to be the greatest – graphic novel of all time, which has never before been available in digital format, as well as Batman: Arkham City, Superman: Earth OneGreen Lantern: Secret Originand 96 others from DC Entertainment.
- Hundreds of magazines and newspapers – including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, USA Today, Wired, Elle, The New Yorker, Cosmopolitan and Martha Stewart Living – with full-color layouts, photographs, illustrations, built-in video, audio and other interactive features are available from the new Kindle Fire “Newsstand.” Kindle Fire customers will enjoy an exclusive free three-month trial to 17 Condé Nast magazines, including Vanity Fair, GQ and Glamour.
- All the most popular Android apps and games, such as Angry Birds, Plants vs. Zombies, Cut the Rope and more. All apps are Amazon-tested on Kindle Fire to ensure quality and Amazon offers a new free paid app every day.
Cloud-Accelerated Web Browser – “Amazon Silk“
The Kindle Fire web browser Amazon Silk introduces a radical new paradigm – a “split browser” architecture that accelerates the power of the mobile device hardware by using the computing speed and power of the Amazon Web Services Cloud. The Silk browser software resides both on Kindle Fire and on the massive server fleet that comprises the Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2). With each page request, Silk dynamically determines a division of labor between the mobile hardware and Amazon EC2 (i.e. which browser sub-components run where) that takes into consideration factors like network conditions, page complexity, and cached content. The result is a faster web browsing experience, and it’s available exclusively on Kindle Fire. Additional technical details are available in the Amazon Silk press release, released today at www.amazon.com/pr. To see a video about Amazon Silk go to www.amazon.com/silk.
Simple and Easy-To-Use
Amazon designed the Kindle Fire user interface from the ground upto make it easier than ever to purchase, manage, and enjoy your digital content. Just like with Kindle e-readers, Kindle Fire comes automatically pre-registered to your Amazon.com account so you can immediately start enjoying your digital content purchased from Amazon or shop for new content. All of your digital content is instantly available to enjoy and manage with a simple, consistent experience across all content types.
Free Cloud Storage
Just like Kindle e-readers, Kindle Fire offers free storage for all your Amazon digital content in the Amazon Cloud. Amazon digital content is automatically backed up for free in the Amazon Cloud’s Worry-Free Archive where it’s available for re-downloading anytime.
Amazon Whispersync Now for Movies & TV Too
Just like Kindle e-readers, Kindle Fire uses Amazon’s popular Whispersync technology to automatically synchronize your Kindle library, last page read, bookmarks, notes, and highlights across the widest range of devices and platforms. With the introduction of Kindle Fire, Amazon is expanding this technology to include video. Start streaming a movie on your Kindle Fire, and when you get home, you can resume streaming right where you left off on your TV – avoid the frustration of needing to find your spot.
Easy to Hold in One Hand
Just like Kindle e-readers, Kindle Fire was designed to disappear so you can lose yourself in the content. Weighing in at just 14.6 ounces, Kindle Fire is small and light enough to hold in just one hand and carry everywhere you go. The lightweight, compact design makes Kindle Fire perfect for web browsing, playing games, reading and shopping on-the-go.
Brilliant Color Touchscreen
Content comes alive in rich color on a 7-inch full color LCD touchscreen that delivers 16 million colors in high resolution and 169 pixels per inch. Kindle Fire uses IPS (in-plane switching) technology – similar technology as used on the iPad, for an extra-wide viewing angle – perfect for sharing your screen with others. In addition, the Kindle Fire display is chemically strengthened to be 20 times stiffer and 30 times harder than plastic, which means it is incredibly durable and will stand up to accidental bumps and scrapes.
Fast, Powerful Dual-Core Processor
Kindle Fire features a state-of-the-art dual-core processor for fast, powerful performance. Stream music while browsing the web or read books while downloading videos.
Free Month of Amazon Prime
Right out of the box, Kindle Fire users will experience the benefits that millions of Amazon Prime members already enjoy – unlimited, commercial-free, instant streaming of over 11,000 movies and TV shows with Prime Instant Video and the convenience of Free Two-Day Shipping on millions of items from Amazon.com.
Only $199
The all-new Kindle Fire – with all the content, Amazon’s revolutionary cloud-accelerated browser, free storage in the Amazon Cloud, Whispersync, 14.6 ounce design that’s easy to hold with one hand, brilliant color touchscreen, and a fast and powerful dual core processor – is only $199. Customers in the U.S. can pre-order Kindle Fire starting today at www.amazon.com/kindlefireand it ships November 15.
For high resolution images and video of the all-new Kindle family, visit www.amazon.com/pr/kindle.
Introducing “Amazon Silk”: Amazon’s Revolutionary Cloud-Accelerated Web Browser, Available Exclusively on Kindle Fire [Amazon press release, Sept 28, 2011]
Amazon’s cloud computing infrastructure and eight years of cloud computing expertise come together in new web browser for Kindle Fire—Amazon’s new Kindle for movies, music, books, magazines, apps, games, and web browsing
Amazon Silk introduces a radical new paradigm – a “split browser” architecture that accelerates the power of the mobile device hardware by using the computing speed and power of the Amazon Web Services cloud (AWS). The Silk browser software resides both on Kindle Fire and on the massive server fleet that comprises the Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2). With each page request, Silk dynamically determines a division of labor between the mobile hardware and Amazon EC2 (i.e. which browser sub-components run where) that takes into consideration factors like network conditions, page complexity and the location of any cached content. The result is a faster web browsing experience, and it’s available exclusively on Kindle Fire, Amazon’s new Kindle for movies, music, books, magazines, apps, games, and web browsing.
“Kindle Fire introduces a revolutionary new web browser called Amazon Silk,” said Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com Founder and CEO. “We refactored and rebuilt the browser software stack and now push pieces of the computation into the AWS cloud. When you use Silk – without thinking about it or doing anything explicit – you’re calling on the raw computational horsepower of Amazon EC2 to accelerate your web browsing.”
Modern websites have become complex. For example, on a recent day, constructing the CNN.com home page required 161 files served from 25 unique domains. This degree of complexity is common. In fact, a typical web page requires 80 files served from 13 different domains. Latency over wireless connections is high – on the order of 100 milliseconds round trip. Serving a web page requires hundreds of such round trips, only some of which can be done in parallel. In aggregate, this adds seconds to page load times.
Conversely, Amazon EC2 is always connected to the backbone of the internet where round-trip latency is 5 milliseconds or less to most web sites rather than the 100 milliseconds seen over wireless connections. In addition, EC2 servers have massive computational power. On EC2, available CPU, storage, and available memory can be orders of magnitudes larger than on mobile devices. Silk uses the power and speed of the EC2 server fleet to retrieve all of the components of a website and deliver them to Kindle Fire in a single, fast stream.
In addition to having more horsepower than a mobile processor, AWS has peering relationships with major internet service providers, and many top sites are hosted on EC2. This means that many web requests will never leave the extended infrastructure of AWS, reducing transit times to only a few milliseconds. Further, while processing and memory constraints lead most mobile browsers to limit the amount of work they attempt at any one time, using EC2 frees Silk from these constraints. If hundreds of files are required to build a web page across dozens of domains, Silk can request all of this content simultaneously with EC2, without overwhelming the mobile device processor or impacting battery life.
Traditional browsers must wait to receive the HTML file in order to begin downloading the other page assets. Silk is different because it learns these page characteristics automatically by aggregating the results of millions of page loads and maintaining this knowledge on EC2. While another browser might still be setting up a connection with the host server, Silk has already pushed content that it knows is associated with the page to the Kindle Fire before the site has even instructed the browser where to find it.
A typical web request begins with resolving the domain names associated with the server and establishing a TCP connection to issue the http request. Establishing TCP connections for each request consumes time and resources that slow down traditional browsers. Silk keeps a persistent connection open to EC2 so that there is always a connection at the ready to start loading the next page. Silk also uses EC2 to maintain a persistent connection to the top sites on the web. This approach reduces latency that would otherwise result from constantly establishing TCP connections. Further, Silk’s split architecture uses a pipelined, multiplexing protocol that can send all the content over a single connection.
Finally, Silk leverages the collaborative filtering techniques and machine learning algorithms Amazon has built over the last 15 years to power features such as “customers who bought this also bought…” As Silk serves up millions of page views every day, it learns more about the individual sites it renders and where users go next. By observing the aggregate traffic patterns on various web sites, it refines its heuristics, allowing for accurate predictions of the next page request. For example, Silk might observe that 85 percent of visitors to a leading news site next click on that site’s top headline. With that knowledge, EC2 and Silk together make intelligent decisions about pre-pushing content to the Kindle Fire. As a result, the next page a Kindle Fire customer is likely to visit will already be available locally in the device cache, enabling instant rendering to the screen.
“Silk”
The name “Silk” is inspired by the idea that a thread of silk is an invisible yet incredibly strong connection between two different things. In the case of Amazon Silk, it’s the connection between the Kindle Fire and Amazon EC2 that creates a better, faster browsing experience. For more information on Amazon Silk, visit www.amazon.com/silk.
Exclusively on Kindle Fire
Silk is available exclusively on Kindle Fire. To pre-order Kindle Fire, visit www.amazon.com/kindlefire.
About Amazon Web Services
Launched in 2006, Amazon Web Services (AWS) provides Amazon’s developer customers with access to in-the-cloud infrastructure services based on Amazon’s own back-end technology platform, which developers can use to enable virtually any type of business. As one of the world’s most reliable, scalable, and cost-efficient web infrastructures, AWS has changed the way businesses think about technology infrastructure–there are no up-front expenses or long-term commitments, capital expense is turned into variable operating expense, resources can be added or shed as quickly as needed, and engineering resources are freed up from the undifferentiated heavy lifting of running onsite infrastructure – all without sacrificing operational performance, reliability, or security. AWS now offers over 21 different services, including Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (EC2), Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3), and Amazon SimpleDB. AWS services are used by hundreds of thousands of enterprise, government, and startup customers in more than 190 countries around the world, powering everything from the most popular games on Facebook to NASA’s Mars Rover project to pharmaceutical drug research.
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How Amazon Powers the Internet |
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It began as a way for Amazon’s engineers to work together efficiently. Now Amazon Web Services hosts some of the most popular sites on the web and is responsible for a significant amount of the world’s online traffic. Here’s a look at some of the companies that rely on Amazon’s cloud computing platform. |
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Customer |
What it uses Amazon Web Services for |
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Foursquare |
3 million check-ins a day |
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Harvard Medical School |
Vast database for developing genome-analysis models |
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NASA Jet Propulsion Lab |
Processing of hi-res satellite images to help guide its robots |
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Netflix |
Video streaming service that accounts for 25% of US Internet traffic |
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Newsweek/The Daily Beast |
1 million pageviews every hour |
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PBS |
More than 1 petabyte of streaming video a month |
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SmugMug |
Storage for 70 million photos |
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US Department of Agriculture |
Geographic information system for food-stamp recipients |
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Virgin Atlantic |
Crowdsourced travel review service |
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Yelp |
Data storage for its 22 million-plus reviews |
The high-end Windows Phone 7.5 (Mango) marketing
HTC Unveils HTC TITAN And HTC Radar Smartphones [HTC press release, Sept 1, 2011]
HTC Corporation, a global leader in mobile innovation and design, today hosted a series of consumer meet-ups in London, Paris, Madrid and Berlin to unveil its new HTC TITAN™ and HTC Radar™ with Windows® Phone smartphones. The HTC TITAN brings your favorite content and multimedia experiences closer than ever with a large 4.7 inch display, HTC’s largest phone screen ever wrapped in an ultra-thin 9.9mm aluminum case. The HTC Radar is designed to keep you close to the people, news and entertainment that matters to you most. Consumers enjoyed exclusive hands-on demos of the new devices and got to try out Microsoft’s next release of Windows Phone, code-named Mango.
“The new HTC TITAN and HTC Radar smartphones raise the bar with new advanced photography, multimedia and social capabilities that enable you to take full advantage of the latest Windows Phone innovations,” said Jason Mackenzie, President of Global Sales and Marketing, HTC Corporation. “With its large, cinematic display, the HTC TITANpacks an amazing amount of power and innovation into a device that is unlike anything you’ve ever held before and the HTC Radar’s aluminum uni-body, compact size and finish will capture people’s attention.”
Picture Perfect
Both HTC TITAN and HTC Radar include a dedicated hardware camera button which enables you to capture vivid images without unlocking the phone while the f/2.2 aperture lens and back-illuminated sensor provide improved low-light performance – making sure you never miss that perfect shot. With 28mm wide-angle lenses you can capture more of the scene in front of you while the new panoramic feature lets you create dramatic pictures of skylines and landscapes. Both devices can shoot bright and vibrant HD (720p) videos, making them perfect companions for family functions or a night out with friends. And with the HTC Photo Enhancer, you can quickly touch up pictures and upload them to Facebook, tagging your friends as you go using automatic face detection built in to Windows Phones.“Phones were originally designed for communication, but they haven’t kept up with the way consumers are actually communicating today. That’s why we built Windows Phone to put people first, building in all the key types of communication people are already using right out of the box,” said Andy Lees, President of Windows Phone Division. “Both HTC TITAN and HTC Radar bring a sleek, modern design that perfectly complements this people first experience, making sure it’s easy to connect & share with the people you care about most so the message always gets through.”
HTC TITAN
With its large and bright 4.7 inch super LCD screen, an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera and 1.3 megapixel front facing camera for live video calling, HTC TITAN combines high performance innovation with a super-slim 9.9mm curved bodymade from a brushed aluminium shell that fits comfortably in your hand and exudes style and quality.HTC TITAN is also the perfect portable office that enables efficient multitasking like viewing a presentation while you’re on a conference call or listening to music while compiling an email. With its expansive screen with built in Microsoft® Office Mobile, this super smartphone enables you to create, edit and collaborate quickly and easily. Advanced email features like Linked inboxes makes it easy to manage multiple email accounts, synchronize your to-do list and calendars in one place, group contacts to make communication simpler and faster, and even store your latest ideas and notes in the cloud with Microsoft® OneNote®. Typing on the HTC TITAN is quick and easy with the huge virtual keyboardon the responsive 4.7 inch screen.
HTC Radar
[According to non-HTC data it also has super LCD screen] Elegantly crafted with an aluminium unibody, HTC Radar brings you closer to the important things in life, with the new People Hub from Windows Phone. The People Hub keeps you up to date with your friends’ latest news showing all of your communication history with each person, as well as their recent social network updates and photos. You can also stay in touch using SMS, Facebook chat and Windows Live®Messenger in one conversation, without having to switch applications or disrupt the conversation flow. Alternatively, speak “face-to-face” with new video calling that lets you see your friends’ faces on the bright and sharp 3.8 inch screen.Entertainment on the move
With HTC TITAN and HTC Radar, mobile multimedia is greatly improved. Both phones include HTC Watch™ – an application and service that puts an entire library of the latest, premium movies and TV shows right at your fingertips, letting people discover the latest video content in an easy and visually engaging way. Utilizing Virtual 5.1 surround sound for a rich audio experience, these phones are perfect for enjoying the Zune® music service. Internet browsing is fast and smooth with HTML5 support. You also get an amazing mobile gaming with Xbox LIVE®, giving you access to a great selection of games for Windows Phone, which include features like Leaderboards and Achievement that connect you with your friends and the Xbox LIVE community around the world.Availability
HTC TITAN and HTC Radar will be broadly available from October 2011 globally, beginning in Europe and Asia.About HTC
HTC Corporation (HTC) is one of the fastest growing companies in the mobile industry. By putting people at the centre of everything it does, HTC creates innovative smartphones and tablets that better serve the lives and needs of individuals. The company is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange under ticker 2498. For more information about HTC, please visit www.htc.com.
Super LCD, Explained [DISPLAYBLOG, Nov 24, 2010]
Super LCD is manufactured by Sony Mobile Display (SMD).
…
Samsung has chosen to closely guard the Super AMOLED displays being manufactured by Samsung Mobile Display (SMD) and use nearly all of them for its own branded smartphones. The result has been a shortage for other manufacturers like HTC, who has replaced some of its smartphones with Super LCD instead.
Super LCD can be considered a close second to IPS. Although viewing angles are stated as 160/160 Sony is using a more strict rule that requires the contrast ratio at angles to be at least 100:1. Most LCD viewing angle specs are stated with a minimum contrast ratio of 10:1, so the Super LCD most likely has viewing angles that are just as wide as IPS. On the other hand, the threshold pixel format of 800×480 is lower than what is used in the iPhone 4: 960×640, so IPS is already ahead in its ability to pack more pixels into the same amount of space. The 800:1 contrast is equal to the stated contrast of the iPhone 4′s Retina Display, but tests have resulted in contrast of 1000:1 or more.
Infosync:
- When it comes to the actual viewing experience, the Super LCD technology should produce an experience worthy of a high-end smartphone. It can’t match Samsung’s new Super AMOLED technology on an isolated technological level, but that’s also the case with the iPhone 4′s IPS LCD screen.
There has been a lot of debate as to which is the best display. Super LCD, IPS, Super AMOLED all have pros and cons but when it comes to color fidelity or accuracy on smartphones using these displays IPS and Super LCD come out ahead. Sunlight readability? LCD technology comes out ahead of OLED, even the super variety. The one area that OLED technology spanks any LCD, including IPS and Super LCD, is in black levels: OLED displays are as black as black can be.
HTC Radar: Reveal[Aug 30, 2011]
The HTC Radar is designed to keep you close to the people, news and entertainment that matter to you most. Loaded with the new People Hub from Windows Phone, the HTC Radar helps keep you up to date with your friends’ latest news- showing all of your communication history with each person, and all recent social network updates and photos. Or just stay in touch using text messaging, Facebook chat and Windows Live® Messenger in one conversation, all without having to switch applications or stop the conversation.
HTC TITAN: Reveal[Aug 30, 2011]
The HTC TITAN is packing the largest screen on an HTC phone—ever. With a large and bright 4.7 inch super LCD screen, an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera and 1.3 megapixel front facing camera (for those live video calls), the HTC TITAN combines high performance innovation with a super-slim 9.9mm curved body made from a brushed aluminum shell that fits comfortably in your hand, bringing your favorite content and multimedia experiences closer than ever.
HTC Radar & HTC TITAN: Learn More[Aug 30, 2011]
The HTC TITAN brings your favorite content and multimedia experiences closer than ever with a large 4.7 inch display, HTC’s largest phone screen ever wrapped in an ultra-thin 9.9mm aluminum case. The HTC Radar is designed to keep you close to the people, news and entertainment that matters to you most, thanks to the brand new People Hub from Windows Phone.
HTC Radar – First Look[Sept 1, 2011]
Introducing HTC Radar, featuring a premium unibody aluminum design, advanced F2.2 camera lens and BSI sensor, People Hub for easier connection with your social network, advanced entertainment capabilities with Xbox Live built in, HTC Watch and Zune, and better web browsing experience with IE9, giving you a phone designed so you never miss a thing in life.
HTC Radar – A design that makes you look good 
[Sept 1, 2011]
The HTC Radar offers a premium design. Crafted from a single piece of polished metal, the phone just feels great in your hands and is built to last. The HTC Radar is that friend who will always be there for you. It’ll make the right impression on you and everyone around you.
HTC Radar – Perfect photos in any condition [Sept 4, 2011]
The HTC Radar offers a 5 megapixel camera with an F2.2 lens and BSI sensor and gives you an experience beyond what you’d expect from a phone. You’re always active so no matter the circumstance, you’ll always get a high-quality photo to share real-time with your social network.
HTC Radar – One-for-all sharing for active lifestyles[Sept 1, 2011]
The HTC Radar fits seamlessly with your life and keeps you in touch with your social network. With Windows Phone “Threads” you can easily switch between Facebook chat, text, and Windows Live Messenger and never miss a beat with your world. And the “Me” tile keeps you one-step close to Facebook check-ins and your friends’ updates on your wall. Also, People Hub pulls together your contacts and social networks into one place, so you can easily follow them and stay connected.
HTC Radar – Unmissable entertainment[Sept 4, 2011]
The intuitive HTC Radar knows you will be bored at times, too. The phone has amazing entertainment features that ensure your journeys will fly by. With HTC Watch you can enjoy Hollywood blockbusters at your fingertips. The HTC Radar gives you instant access to millions of tunes at your fingertips with Zune. And you’ll always be in the game with Xbox LIVE built in right on your phone!
HTC TITAN – First Look[Sept 4, 2011]
Introducing HTC TITAN, the phone that makes amazing things happen, featuring a huge 4.7 inch screen with an ultra-slim 9.9mm contoured unibody design, superior web browsing, emailing and multitasking, Microsoft® Office built in, 8MP camera, advanced F2.2 camera lens and BSI sensor, People Hub for easier connection with your social network and advanced entertainment capabilities with Xbox Live built in, HTC Watch and Zune.
HTC TITAN – Unlike anything you’ve ever held before[Sept 4, 2011]
No more squinting at small screens for you. With a massive 4.7″ screen and an ultra-slim 9.9mm unibody contoured design, the HTC TITAN feels great in your hand. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever held before.
HTC TITAN – Entertainment that really comes to life[Sept 4, 2011]
Enjoy entertainment that really comes to life on the big screen whenever, wherever. With HTC Watch you can enjoy Hollywood blockbusters at your fingertips. The HTC TITAN gives you instant access to millions of tunes at your fingertips with Zune. And you’ll always be in the game with Xbox LIVE built in right on your phone!
HTC TITAN – No more point and shoot camera for you[Sept 1, 2011]
It takes a lot to capture your special moments. Rather than dragging your point and shoot camera around, the HTC TITAN offers an 8 megapixel camera with F2.2. lens and BSI sensor that gives you a high-resolution photo under any condition. With such pixel-packed photos, you really can feel comfortable leaving your point and shoot at home.
HTC TITAN – A multitasking machine[Sept 1, 2011]
The HTC TITAN is the perfect phone for multitasking and enhancing your efficiency. It simplifies your email by bringing all your accounts and conversation history by each person together in a linked inbox. And the HTC TITAN lets you easily jump between work mode and play mode. Listen to music while working on a document, or check important emails in the middle of a game without restarting the game.
Notes:
– The Qualcomm Snapdragon S2 Mobile Processor used in both models is the current high-end only for Windows Phone 7.5 (see: Qualcomm Snapdragon SoCs with a new way of easy identification [Aug 4, 2011])
– Things highlighted in red in the specifications below are either additions to TITAN or differences between TITAN and Radar
HTC TITAN at a glance
- Size:131.5mm x 70.7mm x 9.9mm
5.18″ x 2.78″ x 0.39″ - Weight:160 grams (5.6 ounces) with battery
- Display:4.7-inch touch screen with 480 x 800 resolution
- Screen size: 119 mm (4.7″)
| CPU Processing Speed 1.5 GHz [new Scorpion CPU with Adreno 205 GPU, 3G HSPA+ and 1024×768/720 – all integrated in the Qualcomm MSM8255 SoC: Snapdragon S2 Mobile Processor]Storage Total storage: 16 GB Available storage: up to 12.63 GB RAM: 512 MBConnectors – 3.5 mm stereo audio jack – micro-USB 2.0 (5-pin) portSensors – Gyro Sensor – G-Sensor – Digital compass – Proximity sensor – Ambient light sensorMultimedia – See photos from your camera, Facebook and Windows Live™ accounts in the Pictures hub – Music and Videos Hub powered by Zune lets you listen to radio, download music, and more – SRS enhancement – 5.1 surround sound for videoAudio supported formats: – Playback: .m4a, .m4b, .mp3, .wma (Windows Media Audio 9) Video supported formats: Power & Battery Capacity: 1600 mAh Talk time: Standby time: |
Network HSPA/WCDMA: – Europe/Asia: 850/900/2100 MHzQuad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE: – 850/900/1800/1900 MHzPlatform Windows® Phone OS 7.5Camera 8 megapixel camera with F2.2 lens, dual LED flash, and BSI sensor (for better low-light captures)Front camera: – 1.3 megapixelfront cameraHD video recording: – 720p HD video recording Internet GPRS: EDGE: Wi-Fi®: Bluetooth® Social Networking Location Tethering Recommended Windows System Requirements |
HTC Radar at a glance
- Size: 120.5mm x 61.5mm x 10.9mm
4.74″ x 2.42″ x 0.43″ - Weight: 137 grams (4.83 ounces) with battery
- Display: 3.8-inch touch screen with 480 x 800 resolution
- Screen size: 96.5 mm (3.8″)
| CPU Processing Speed 1 GHz [new Scorpion CPU with Adreno 205 GPU, 3G HSPA+ and 1024×768/720 – all integrated in the Qualcomm MSM8255 SoC: Snapdragon S2 Mobile Processor]Storage Total storage: 8 GB Available storage: up to 6.54 GB RAM: 512 MBConnectors – 3.5 mm stereo audio jack – micro-USB 2.0 (5-pin) portSensors – G-Sensor – Proximity sensor – Ambient light sensorMultimedia – See photos from your camera, Facebook and Windows Live™ accounts in the Pictures hub – Music and Videos Hub powered by Zune lets you listen to radio, download music, and more – SRS enhancement – 5.1 surround sound for videoAudio supported formats: – Playback: .m4a, .m4b, .mp3, .wma (Windows Media Audio 9) Video supported formats: Power & Battery Capacity: 1520 mAh Talk time: Standby time: |
Network HSPA/WCDMA: – Europe/Asia: 900/2100 MHzQuad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE: – 850/900/1800/1900 MHzPlatform Windows® Phone OS 7.5Camera 5 megapixel camera with F2.2 lens, LED flash, and BSI sensor (for better low-light captures)Front camera: – VGAfront cameraHD video recording: – 720p HD video recording Internet GPRS: EDGE: Wi-Fi®: Bluetooth® Social Networking Location Tethering Recommended Windows System Requirements |
HTC unveils their new global lineup of Windows Phones [Joe Belfiore, Corporate Vice President, Windows Phone Program Management, Microsoft, Sept 1, 2011]
HTC just unveiled two new Windows Phones that will be landing in stores around the world later this year, running our latest version of Windows Phone. A lot of people ask me via Twitter “what phone are you using now”. I’m delighted to say in rotating through various phones and helping our partners finish them with high quality, I’ve spent quite a bit of time carrying one of the prototypes of these HTC phones and it’s terrific. For those of you who haven’t read the press details—here’s a quick recap. HTC introduced the phones in a series of meet up style events in London, Paris, Berlin and Madrid, and they’ll be broadly available from October 2011 globally, beginning in Europe and Asia, with pricing info to come later. In the meantime, let’s dig into what makes these phones awesome.
First up, the HTC TITAN features a big 4.7-inch screen with a slim 9.9mm brushed aluminum shell, and a front facing camera, is a great device for working or for playing. Movies, music and your favorite apps will really come to life on this big screen. Sometimes I hear feedback from some users that “fonts are a little small” on WP7—absolutely not the case on the TITAN! As designers, we love seeing the wide variation of phone sizes so that our customers can find one that’s the perfect fit for them.
The second phone announced today was the HTC Radar. The first thing you notice with this phone is the unique design, crafted with an aluminum unibody shell. The Radar also includes a front facing camera so you can video chat with your favorite people. I am really excited to see phones like the Radar, because it’s a great marriage of beautiful software and great hardware design.
A lot of you have asked us whether Mango will support front facing cameras—and now that these HTC phones have been formally announced, I can confirm officially that Mango does support these. We’ve included support for “switching to FFC” for photo/video shooting into the native camera experience and we’ve added API support to the application platform so ISVs can build all kinds of interesting apps using the FFC. We’ll have more announcements on some of the specific apps that will take advantage of this capability a little later on.
The announcement of these new HTC phones is a big milestone in our march to Mango, with many more exciting things still to come!
Microsoft Says Windows Phone May Exceed Researcher’s Market Share Forecast [Bloomberg, Sept 1, 2011]
Microsoft Corp. (MSFT)said its Windows Phone operating system may capture more than 20 percent of the smartphone market over the next two to three years with the help of hardware manufacturers and increased marketing efforts.
Forecasts by researchers Gartner and IDC, which expects a market share of about 20 percent in 2015, are conservative, said Achim Berg, head of Windows Phone marketing, in Berlin today.
Microsoft, the world’s largest software maker, is betting that Windows Phone will retake market share lost to Apple Inc. (AAPL)’s iPhone and handsets running Google Inc. (GOOG)’s Android software. The company will start offering the enhanced “Mango” version of its operating system, with functions including better social-media offerings, for the first time in Europe on two HTC Corp. phones, set to go on sale by Oct. 1.
HTC and other partners will run advertisement campaigns for the Titan and Radar phones, and the company has joined Microsoft in training “hundreds” of salesmen worldwide to better demonstrate the product, Berg said at the IFA consumer electronics fair. Microsoft plans to build on Windows Phone’s initial success with female consumers as well as with young and first-time usersto win market share, he said.
“We’re seeing an extremely positive response” to the Windows Mobile system, HTC’s President for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Florian Seiche, said in an interview. “We’re now thinking that this year is a great time to get that momentum accelerated, to reach out to a broader group of customers.”
The Titan, which has an 8-megapixel camera with dual-led flash and a wide-angle lens, will sell for 599 euros ($855), while the Radar costs 399 euros [$570]. HTC is in talks with retailers and operators, Seiche said, adding that the phones will be broadly available in Europe.
…
“This is a completely new platform, it takes time,” said Berg. “It took time with Android, it took time with Apple. We have to show that we’re very capable and that we have the fastest and easiest phone.”
In April, Gartner forecast that the Android operating system will have the largest smartphone market share during the next four years, rising from 23 percent in 2010 to 49 percent in 2015. Apple’s iOS is predicted to grow from 16 percent to 17 percent, while Microsoft’s share will go from 4.2 percent in 2010 to 19.5 percent in 2015. IDC in June predicted that Microsoft may hold a 20.3 percent market share in 2015.
Notes:
– HTC’s most popular Desire S (announced Feb 15 as a follower to award winner 2010 Desire) is ~$US400 (Amazon) with rather similar specifications as Radar
– 3.7″ Super LCD as well as 1GHz Snapdragon™ MSM8255 processor, dual front and back cameras etc.
– So Radar could cost $US100-150 more even at the best retail shop
Gartner Says Android to Command Nearly Half of Worldwide Smartphone Operating System Market by Year-End 2012 [April 7, 2011]
Worldwide smartphone sales will reach 468 million units in 2011, a 57.7 percent increase from 2010, according to Gartner Inc. By the end of 2011, Android will move to become the most popular operating system (OS) worldwide and will build on its strength to account for 49 percent of the smartphone market by 2012 (see Table 1).
Sales of open OS* devices will account for 26 percent of all mobile handset device sales in 2011, and are expected to surpass the 1 billion mark by 2015, when they will account for 47 percent of the total mobile device market.
“By 2015, 67 percent of all open OS devices will have an average selling price of $300 or below, proving that smartphones have been finally truly democratized,” said Roberta Cozza, principal analyst at Gartner.
“As vendors delivering Android-based devices continue to fight for market share, price will decrease to further benefit consumers”, Ms. Cozza said. “Android’s position at the high end of the market will remain strong, but its greatest volume opportunity in the longer term will be in the mid- to low-cost smartphones, above all in emerging markets.”
Table 1
Worldwide Mobile Communications Device Open OS Sales to End Users by OS (Thousands of Units)
OS 2010 2011 2012 2015 Symbian 111,577 89,930 32,666 661 Market Share (%) 37.6 19.2 5.2 0.1 Android 67,225 179,873 310,088 539,318 Market Share (%) 22.7 38.5 49.2 48.8 Research In Motion 47,452 62,600 79,335 122,864 Market Share (%) 16 13.4 12.6 11.1 iOS 46,598 90,560 118,848 189,924 Market Share (%) 15.7 19.4 18.9 17.2 Microsoft 12,378 26,346 68,156 215,998 Market Share (%) 4.2 5.6 10.8 19.5 Other Operating Systems 11,417.40 18,392.30 21,383.70 36,133.90 Market Share (%) 3.8 3.9 3.4 3.3 Total Market 296,647 467,701 630,476 1,104,898 Source: Gartner (April 2011)
Gartner predicts that Apple’s iOS will remain the second biggest platform worldwide through 2014 despite its share deceasing slightly after 2011. This reflects Gartner’s underlying assumption that Apple will be interested in maintaining margins rather than pursuing market share by changing its pricing strategy. This will continue to limit adoption in emerging regions. iOS share will peak in 2011, with volume growth well above the market average. This is driven by increased channel reach in key mature markets like the U.S. and Western Europe.
Research In Motion’s share over the forecast period will decline, reflecting the stronger competitive environment in the consumer market, as well as increased competition in the business sector. Gartner has factored in RIM’s migration from BlackBerry OS to QNX which is expected in 2012. Analysts said this transition makes sense because RIM can create a consistent experience going from smartphones to tablets with a single developer community and — given that QNX as a platform brings more advanced features than the classic BlackBerry OS — it can enable more competitive smartphone products.
Gartner predicts that Nokia will push Windows Phone well into the mid-tier of its portfolio by the end of 2012, driving the platform to be the third largest in the worldwide ranking by 2013. Gartner has revised its forecast of Windows Phone’s market share upward, solely by virtue of Microsoft’s alliance with Nokia. Although this is an honorable performance it is considerably less than what Symbian had achieve in the past underlying the upward battle that Nokia has to face.
Gartner analysts said new device types will widen ecosystems. “The growth in sales of media tablets expected in 2011 and future years will widen the ecosystems that open OS communications devices have created. This will, by and large, function more as a driver than an inhibitor for sales of open OS devices,” said Carolina Milanesi, research vice president at Gartner.
“Consumers who already own an open OS communications device will be drawn to media tablets and more often than not, to media tablets that share the same OS as their smartphone,” Ms. Milanesi said. “This allows consumers to be able to share the same experience across devices as well as apps, settings or game scores. At the same time, tablet users who don’t own a smartphone could be prompted to adopt one to be able to share the experience they have on their tablets.”
Note *: An open OS makes a software developer kit (SDK) available to developers, who can use native application programming interfaces (APIs) to write applications. The OS can be supported by a sole vendor or multiple vendors. It can be, but does not have to be, open source. Examples are BlackBerry OS, iOS, Symbian, Android, Windows Phone, Linux, Limo Foundation, WebOS and bada.
Gartner’s detailed forecast is available in the report “Forecast: Mobile Communications Devices by Open Operating System, Worldwide, 2008-2015.” The report is available on Gartner’s website at http://www.gartner.com/resId=1619615.
IDC Forecasts Worldwide Smartphone Market to Grow by Nearly 50% in 2011 [March 29, 2011]
The worldwide smartphone market is expected to grow 49.2% in 2011 as more consumers and enterprise users turn in their feature phones for smartphones with more advanced features. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, smartphone vendors will ship more than 450 million smartphones in 2011 compared to the 303.4 million units shipped in 2010. Moreover, the smartphone market will grow more than four times faster than the overall mobile phone market.
“Overall market growth in 2010 was exceptional,” said Kevin Restivo, senior research analyst with IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker. “Last year’s high market growth was due in part to pent-up demand from a challenging 2009, when many buyers held off on mobile phone purchases. The expected market growth for 2011, while still notable, will taper off somewhat from what we saw in 2010.”
To capture the strong consumer demand for smartphones, manufacturers have unleashed a steady stream of new models and features over the past two years. The battle for mind and market share has also resulted in stiff competition among the smartphone operating systems.
“Android is poised to take over as the leading smartphone operating system in 2011 after racing into the number 2 position in 2010,” said Ramon Llamas, senior research analyst with IDC’s Mobile Devices Technology and Trendsteam. “For the vendors who made Android the cornerstone of their smartphone strategies, 2010 was the coming-out party. This year will see a coronation party as these same vendors broaden and deepen their portfolios to reach more customers, particularly first-time smartphone users.”
Nokia’s recent announcement to shift from Symbian to Windows Phone will have significant implications for the smartphone market going forward. “Up until the launch of Windows Phone 7 last year, Microsoft has steadily lost market share while other operating systems have brought forth new and appealing experiences,” added Llamas. “The new alliance brings together Nokia’s hardware capabilities and Windows Phone’s differentiated platform. We expect the first devices to launch in 2012. By 2015, IDC expects Windows Phone to be number 2 operating system worldwide behind Android.”
Worldwide Smartphone Operating System 2011 and 2015 Market Share and 2011-2015 CAGR (listed alphabetically)
Operating System 2011 Market Share 2015 Market Share 2011-2015 CAGR Android 39.5% 45.4% 23.8% BlackBerry 14.9% 13.7% 17.1% iOS 15.7% 15.3% 18.8% Symbian 20.9% 0.2% -65.0% Windows Phone 7/Windows Mobile 5.5% 20.9% 67.1% Others 3.5% 4.6% 28.0% Total 100.0% 100.0% 19.6% Source: IDC Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, March 29, 2011
CEO of Microsoft Germany to become Microsoft Vice President of Mobile Communications [April 14, 2010]
In an interesting move Achim Berg (46), previously CEO of Microsoft Germany, is moving to Redmond to become Corporate Vice President of Mobile Communications Business & Marketing, a newly created position. He will be responsible for all marketing and business development activities for Windows phones worldwideand report to Andy Lees, senior vice President of Mobile Communications.
“Achim Berg will be excellent addition, and brings his excellent management style and his practical sales and marketing experience in the Mobile Communications Business Team (MCB) . His experience at Deutsche Telekom, Fujitsu / Siemens and Dellgives a comprehensive view of our business. Achim will be a major asset to the Leadership Team and will contribute to the Mobility business and MCB to help the team succeed with the important Launch of our Windows 7 Phone, “said Andy Lees.
“The wireless market is essential for Microsoft. Already more smartphones are sold worldwide than PCs. Mobile Internet access has become the standard and is more important than the simple network with other devices. I see a huge opportunity for Microsoft in this innovative market, “said Berg.
Germany has been one of the stronger markets for Windows Mobile, with the Microsoft OS holding a 19.9% market share there, only after Symbian and iPhone and well ahead of RIM’s 5.4%, according to recent Comscore numbers.
Achim Berg, Corporate Vice President, Windows Phone Marketing [Feb 22, 2011]
Achim Berg is corporate vice president of Windows Phone Marketing, responsible for business performance and marketing for Windows Phone software and services.
Berg joined Microsoft in February 2007 as general manager of Microsoft Germany and area vice president Microsoft International. In his capacity as chairman of the Managing Board he was responsible for the operations of Microsoft Corporation in its third-largest subsidiary.
Prior to joining Microsoft, Berg served as a member on the board of directors of Deutsche Telekom T-Com, Europe’s largest telecommunications company, where he was responsible for marketing and sales of the company’s fixed line business since 2002. In addition he was appointed to the supervisory board of T-Mobile and Matav (the largest telecommunication company in Hungary). From 1999 to 2001, Berg held the position of managing director of Fujitsu Siemens Computers GmbH. Between 1995 and 1999, he performed executive sales roles for the computer manufacturer Dell Deutschland GmbH, most recently as director for midmarket customers. Berg made his first career steps from 1989 to 1994, when he worked in various sales positions for Bull AG in Cologne, Germany.
In Cologne, Berg completed his studies in computer science in 1989. He attended the European Potential Management Program at the European Economic School (EAP). Berg spends his free time with his family and participates in sports such as marathon running, skiing and golfing.
More on supply chain battles for …
preceding post: Supply chain battles for much improved levels of price/performance competitiveness [Aug 16, 2011]
Digitimes Insight: Acquisition of Motorola may enhance Android services [Aug 30, 2011]
Due to Google’s recent acquisition of Motorola including the tablet vendor’s mobile hardware business, market players have had growing concerns that Google may be heading toward the same business direction as Apple – to work on its own integration of software and hardware. With some of Google’s hardware partners already re-evaluating their strength of support for Android.
However, Digitimes Research believes that the chance for Google to put its focus on operating Motorola’s mobile hardware business is rather slim. Instead, through the acquisition of the hardware business, Google may be considering providing its partners with free hardware reference designs, which would improve its level of support and services, and could significantly affect the mobile device industry in the future.
If Google plans to put any focus on operating Motorola’s mobile device business, it would mean that Google will need to work on increasing the profitability of the hardware, but the idea would conflict with the original aims for Android – to lower the cost for consumers to access the Internet – since consumers will need to pay more to purchase the devices.
Meanwhile, Google is also unlikely to compete for market share through price competition as large shipments with low profitability can easily create inventory pile-ups during a economic slowdown.
Therefore, operating the business on a small scale, but maintaining its strategic role is the most suitable strategy for Google.
If Google’s operation of Motorola’s mobile device business shrinks down to only keeping teams for basic hardware design; software and hardware integration; and basic sales for future cooperation with telecom carriers, Google will be able provide free hardware reference designs for Android devicesto its brand and retail channel partners for production and sales.
Reference designs would greatly benefit brand vendors which have smaller production scales or are crossing over from other industries, as well as channel retailers and telecom carriers. These players will only need to place orders to Google-certified OEMs to be able to receive their shipments, completely eliminating R&D costs.
For Google, such a strategy would free the company from burdens such as back-end inventory, supply chain management, front-end marketing and after-sales services, while allowing Google to provide its users the same high-standard experience of Android, as well as the ability to control product quality.
For hardware players, which have strong R&D capabilities, if such a strategy comes true, these players will face tougher competition from smaller-scale players, as these players will be able to offer Android-based machines at lower prices, while still maintaining a standard level of quality.
For ODM players, their value of providing software and hardware design and integration services will be weakened as demand from clients will decline.
Samsung reportedly recruits ex-HP VP for PC business; considers buying webOS [Aug 29, 2011]
Samsung Electronics, despite refuting reports it plans to take over Hewlett-Packard’s (HP’s) PC business, reportedly has already recruited HP’s ex-vice president of PSG marketing Raymond Wah to handle Samsung’s PC sales, and the company is also reportedly considering purchasing webOS to compete head on against Apple and Google, according to sources from notebook players.
Both HP and Samsung have declined to comment about the purchase of webOS.
The sources noted that the acquisition of HP’s PC business, which has a rather low gross margin, may turn out to hurt Samsung’s panel and DRAM businesses that have rather high gross margins, therefore HP’s webOS may be the target that Samsung has the most interest in.
In addition, Google’s acquisition of Motorola, which may seriously threaten hardware brand vendors, could also trigger Samsung to purchase webOS as a counter measure, the sources added.
Regarding Recent Rumors about Samsung’s PC Business [Samsung Tomorrow, the Samsung Electronics Official Global Blog, Aug 24, 2011]
The recent rumors that Samsung Electronics will be taking over Hewlett-Packard Co.’s personal computer business are not true.
We hope this clarifies any confusion that may have occurred.
Samsung May Buy WebOS [Aug 30, 2011]
Samsung may purchase HP’s WebOS, in a move that would help the phone maker differentiate itself from other Android phone makers in the wake of Google’s Motorola acquisition.
HP recently announced it will spin off its consumer PC division and discontinue its WebOS operations, essentially exiting the smartphone and tablet business despite its software’s good reviews. Samsung, which earlier debunked rumors of acquiring HP’s PC division, may be investigating WebOS instead, according to website Digitimes.
The Korean company staked a claim for itself in the smartphone market with Android devices, like the growing Galaxy line, and has already developed its proprietary Bada platform, designed for newer smartphone users.
However, Google’s recently announced acquisition of phone maker Motorola is anticipated to change dynamics in the Android phone ecosystem as the company shifts from software into the hardware business. If Google becomes a probable rival, phone makers previously reliant on Android may choose to diversify their software options.
Many companies have already been doing this. HTC is set to launch a group of phones running Microsoft’s Windows Phone Mango release, and Samsung today announced it will roll out a line of Wave smartphones powered by Bada.
Acquiring WebOS would be another option for Samsung, as recent fire sales of HP’s discontinued TouchPad device illuminate the software, which has garnered strong reviews. With TouchPad stock nearly sold out, whoever owns the software may have a strong base of users that buys apps and attracts advertisers.
The OS already increased its market share in mobile advertising on the strength of the recent fire sale, one of many signs of a strange, surprising second life for the tablet and its platform. But HP may choose to retain its rights to WebOS and license the platform, as previously hinted.
However, because Samsung already has Bada, some believe HTC may be a more probable buyer of WebOS. The company uses third-party software on all of its phones, but may choose to increase its options as the Google-Motorola acquisition’s effects play out in the longer term.
WebOS was considered a moribund product when it initially launched with HP’s TouchPad a few weeks ago, but the surprisingly brisk fire sales may have given the OS at least a new lease. A new user base now exists for the software, and HP itself today promised software updates to cater to this new audience.
As the fate of Android after Google’s Motorola acquisition — as well as its increasing legal vulnerabilities in patent lawsuits — begins to loom over Android makers, many companies may eye WebOS in a new, favorable light.
Samsung enhances its own mobile platform with the launch of ‘bada 2.0’ [Samsung Tomorrow, the Samsung Electronics Official Global Blog, Aug 25, 2011]
Samsung Electronics has announced the bada 2.0 SDK (Software Development Kit), an application development tool for Samsung’s own mobile platform. Bada 2.0 is expected to be a catalyst in expanding the global distribution of bada smartphones, which have already received significant global sales.
Unveiled at Mobile World Congress in February 2011, bada 2.0 includes many compelling, new features. Borne of Samsung’s heritage in innovation, bada 2.0 brings together a wide variety of new capabilities including multi-tasking, Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC) and voice recognition. It enables smartphone users to experience advanced services such as mobile payment, transport pass-card recharge and file sharing without Internet networking.
With the improved support for web applications including Flash and HTML 5, users can experience enhanced web capabilities. It also means that smartphones based on bada 2.0 can run any web application developed with Flash or HTML. Samsung expects that this upgrade will help to greatly expand its developer community into Flash and JavaScript as well as the existing C++ community.
A key feature for developer partners is the introduction of In-app Ads. Using the Ads API (Application Programming Interface) developers for bada 2.0 can easily insert advertisements, creating new revenue opportunities. Samsung has also upgraded and strengthened its application development environment, providing developers with increased support. An Emulator has been added to foster a development process suitable to the target environment. Tools such as Profiler optimize the device’s performance ensuring that resources like memory and processing power are used to their fullest capacity.
Samsung has enhanced the ‘Samsung Apps’ retail store and expanded full availability through to 121 countries worldwide. With this 2.0 version, more differentiated functions will be offered from Samsung Apps, including new purchasing options and recommendations.
“Samsung bada and our Wave devices continue to succeed around the world, taking advantage of the mobile technology and brand awareness of Samsung’s leadership in the market,”
-JK Shin, president and head of Samsung’s Mobile Communications Business
In the third quarter this year, three new Wave smartphones, powered by bada 2.0, will launch the market; the devices will range from premium models with enhanced performance to entry-level devices that focus on affordability. Bada 2.0 SDK can be downloaded from the bada developer site (developer.bada.com).
A Trio of new bada 2.0-powered ‘Wave’ Smartphones to Debut at Berlin [Samsung Tomorrow, the Samsung Electronics Official Global Blog, Aug 30, 2011]
Samsung Electronics has announced the launch of the flagship 4” chic smartphone Wave 3, the social-powerhouse Wave M and the smart-start Wave Y. These all wave smartphones will be on display at Samsung’s Stand at IFA 2011 in Berlin.
All three devices, borne of Samsung’s heritage in innovation, are powered by Samsung’s own new Bada 2.0 platform which brings together a wide variety of new capabilities including multi-tasking, Wi-Fi Direct, voice recognition and Near Field Communication.
ChatON is Samsung’s proprietary mobile communication service that works across all major mobile devices. A global cross-platform communication service links all your friends and contacts instantly. Micro-communities can be set up through group chat, while a web client allows the sharing of content and conversations between mobile and PC.
Samsung Apps, an integrated application store for Samsung smartphones, is also available. With an improved UI and enhanced store features, Samsung Apps offers a wide variety of applications from globally well-known content to locally-customized applications.
“Smartphones are gaining popularity by the day. The new additions to the Wave portfolio are the first to benefit from the power of our bada 2.0 platform; the full extent of our commitment is clear to see in each device. We’ve produced easy-to-use smartphones that will inspire the market,”
– JK Shin, President and Mobile Communications business
Smarts meet style, the Wave 3
The Samsung Wave 3 is a beautiful and chic smartphone that crams a market-leading 4” Super AMOLED display. Building on the Wave series’ style heritage in full metal design, the Wave 3 is the perfect device for the style-conscious consumer. Excellently constructed of anodized aluminum, the slim yet solid unibody design supports your active, on-the-move lifestyle. With smarter multi-tasking, seamless push notification and Wi-Fi Direct, the Wave 3 has the capabilities to keep you connected and entertained at all times.
The first ChatON equipped smartphone, the Wave M
The Samsung Wave M allows users to keep up-to-date with their hectic social lives with ChatON and Social Hub. With a wide 3.65” HVGA screen made from tempered glass and a metallic body, the Wave M lets users stay socially connected from everywhere. ChatON, streamlined messaging feeds, enhanced on-the-go web browsing and Wi-Fi applications deliver a seamless mobile experience. Wi-Fi Direct and NFC (optional) add further functionality.
A smart-start, the Wave Y
The Samsung Wave Y is the perfect device to introduce new users to the world of smartphone experiences. With a stylish metallic hairline body and large 3.2” HVGA screen, new users can take their first steps to mobile social networking with Social Hub and ChatON. Simple personalisation is enabled via the Live Panel, Lock Screen and Folder management, while Music Hub, a portable music manager, gives users a jukebox in their pocket.
Products Specification:
All Functionality, features, specifications and other product n formation provided n this content, including but not limited to the pricing, design, components, performance, benefits, capabilities, services and availability of the product, may vary by region and are subject to change without notice or obligation.
Asustek set to launch 5-6 Ultrabook models in October [Aug 29, 2011]
Asustek Computer is set to host a product launch conference for Ultrabooks in New York in October with prices to range from US$899-US$1,999, according to company chairman Jonney Shih.
Asustek will release 5-6 Ultrabook models in October with screen sizes of 11.6- or 13.3-inch.
Shih also noted that the recent price drop of several key components such as panels and DRAM has enabled the company to lower the overall cost of Ultrabooks, and with HP having abandoned its PC business, while Dell and Toshiba are expected to turn cautious about Ultrabooks, the new market is likely to be mainly propped up by Acer and Asustek.
Although Intel still has not accept downstream partners’ requests to cut Ultrabook CPU prices, the company has offered to provide extra assistance to allow its partners to launch sub-US$1,000 models, according to sources from upstream component players.
Asustek upbeat as shipments rise [Aug 27, 2011]
Asustek Computer Inc (華碩), the world’s No. 5 PC brand, yesterday said it expected revenues to regain their growth momentum in the third quarter, helped by a 16 percent growth in notebook computer shipments.
The company is aiming to ship 3.6 million notebooks this quarter, up about 16 percent from 3.1 million units last quarter, while it aims to double shipments of its tablet PCs to 800,000 units from 400,000 units, according to a company statement.
Shipments of netbook computers, which accounted for 13 percent of Asustek’s overall revenues in the second quarter this year, will grow slightly to 1.1 million units this quarter from 1 million the previous quarter.
…
Gross margins rose to 14.7 -percentfrom last year’s 11.9 percent, but were down from 15.5 percent in the first quarter of this year.
However, third-quarter gross margins might be “under pressure” because of Acer Inc’s (宏碁) aggressive promotion of its PCs in Europe to clear excess inventory, Asustek said.
The company, which is set to start selling its UX series ultrabook next month, is targeting a price range of US$799 to US$1,999, Asustek CEO Jerry Shen(沈振來) has said.
Acer said on Wednesday its ultrabooks would sell for between US$799 and US$1,199.
Intel has said it expected ultrabooks to initially sell for more than US$1,000, before dropping below that price point in the future.
Asustek will start selling higher-priced ultrabooks before it launches lower-priced models next year, Shen said.
Responding to analysts’ questions, he said Intel’s goal of seeing ultrabooks account for 40 percent of the consumer notebook market next year was “over-optimistic.”
He said since the product is still in the early stages of development and since there are issues to resolve such as heat dissipation and extending the battery life, the 40 percent target would only be achievable in 2013, after Intel launches its Haswell platform.
Shen also said it would focus on the Padfone — a smartphone-tablet combo— as its core smartphone development model.
[Padfone a 4.3-inch smartphone that can be inserted into its accompanying tablet’s rear docking unit, powering up the 10-inch panel to enable an enhanced multimedia experience. The tablet will only work when the smartphone is inserted into the dock.
ASUS Padfone Hands-On Introduction [May 31, 2011]]Here at ASUS we are firm believers behind the practice of design thinking. The Padfone has been specifically created to fulfill a demand for both smartphone and tablet users. It is a first of its kind innovation that allows you to switch seamlessly between pad and phone for a user experience that best-fits your activities, at any time. Internet access from the 3G network connection is shared between the phone and pad, as data storage is streamlined through a single storage pool.“Compared with HTC (宏達電) or Samsung, which are good at developing smartphones, our idea of incorporating the phone into the tablet will ‘wow’ consumers,” he said.
Alex Sun (孫聰敏), corporate vice president of Asustek’s personal mobile devices business unit, last month said the company was finding a niche in the smartphone industryafter its two-year smartphone partnership with US portable navigation device maker Garmin Ltd fell through in January.
“It is the smartphone, not the tablet, that will be the highlight of the Padfone,” Sun said, adding that the tablet will only work when the smartphone is inserted into the dock.
He said prices for the Padfone would be close to that of Apple Inc’s iPhone. The Padfone will be launched in the first quarter of next year.
ASUS Padfone – Behind The Scene [May 30, 2011]
‧Enlarge your screen size any time you need to ‧Seamless transition of applications between pad and phone ‧Eliminate data transfer hassle with a single storage pool ‧One SIM card for two devices ‧Use the pad as an extended battery to charge your phone ‧Have a video conferencing experience and easily share with family and friends
ASUS Padfone – Enjoy the benefits of both Pad and Phone. Make The Switch [May 30, 2011]
Check the exclusive behind the scene footage of ASUS Padfone and people centric design concepts such as seamless data transfer, expandable screen size, 1 SIM card for two devices and more.
Asustek’s Padfone to use new version of Android OS [Aug 10, 2011]
Asustek Computer Inc. said Wednesday that its upcoming device, the Padfone, will run the next version of Google Inc.’s Android operating system, codenamed “Ice Cream Sandwich” (ICS), but the company appeared to be uncertain about the future of its mobile phone business.
The Padfone, which will go on sale at the end of this year or in the first quarter of 2012, allows users to display pictures or videos on a 10.1-inch tablet from a 4.3-inch smartphone seamlessly and to extend the battery life of the phone when the two are combined.
“We chose the ICS because of its better integration across different platforms,” Alex Sun, corporate vice president and general manager of Asustek’s personal mobile devices BU, told reporters on the sidelines of a media briefing to promote the local development of mobile apps.
The ICS, slated to be launched in the fourth quarter of this year, will improve the interoperability among these devices, allowing app developers to achieve higher synergy, according to market analysts.
Sun said Asustek also plans to launch the second generation of the Padfone in the first half of 2012, which is expected to support long-term evolution (LTE) wireless broadband technology and three-dimensional (3D) graphics.
However, Asustek will not launch any new phones by the end of this year because the company needs to “think about the future direction of its mobile phone business” after a shift in Asustek’s strategy for its smartphone lines, Sun added.
Last October, Asustek, which has been selling smartphones under the Garmin-Asus brand since early 2009, said it will not introduce any more co-branded handset models.
Instead, Asustek launched two new smartphones in China in March this year running on China Mobile’s Time Division Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access (TD-SCDMA) network, with the aim of attracting entry and mid-level smartphone users in the booming Chinese market.
The Taiwan-based PC brand sold about 1 million smartphones worldwide last year, but the company has declined to give a forecast for its total smartphone sales in 2011.
HP may resurrect TouchPad, weighs PC spinoff [Reuters, Aug 30, 2011]
Hewlett-Packard Co may resurrect its TouchPad as it weighs a spinoff of its personal computer arm, the head of its PC division said, suggesting HP might revive a tablet that lasted just six weeks in the face of stiff competition from Apple Inc.
HP stunned marketstwo weeks ago, when it announced it may shed its PC business — the world’s largest after the $25 billion acquisition of Compaq in 2002 — as part of a wrenching series of moves away from the consumer market. Those included killing off the TouchPad tablet computer.
Now, the board of the largest U.S. technology company by revenue is expected to decide before the end of the year whether to hive off its PC arm — which began selling the TouchPad in July — into a separate company, considered the best option for shareholders.
Personal Systems Group head Todd Bradley told Reuters in an interview he intends to lead any standalone company created, and expects it to be a full-fledged computer maker spanning tablets, ultra-thin and all-in-one PCs.
“Tablet computing is a segment of the market that’s relevant, absolutely,” he said, without elaborating. He said a spinoff of the Personal Systems Group will bring the “best value” to HP shareholders for taxation and other reasons.
“My intention would be to lead it through this transaction … and if it’s a standalone public company, to lead that.”
Selling the PC division to a rival such as Taiwan’s Acer Inc, which acquired computer maker Gateway in 2007, or to China’s Lenovo Group Ltd, which bought IBM’s PC division in 2004, is not a desirable alternative, Bradley said.
“I would just say that the numbers don’t support that that strategy works,” he said, citing Acer reporting its first-ever quarterly loss last week.
HP has struggled in the PC market — a high-revenue but low-margin business — as popular devices such as Apple’s iPadlure consumers away.
Bradley is on a trip to China, Taiwan and South Korea to meet with employees, suppliers, government officials and media to convince them that HP’s PC business will remain robust and committed to Asian markets.
“China’s obviously a critically important market for HP as well as PSG,” he said.
SUPPLIERS, DON’T FRET
Bradley said HP will increase investments in Shanghai, and over the next three years expand its Shanghai manufacturing base, consolidate six employee sites into one campus, and make Shanghai a regional headquarters in China for the PSG.
“Regardless of what happens, we’re the largest PC company in the world. We need everybody energized, and while this isn’t business as usual, we need people to go out and sell products every day,” Bradley said.
Suppliers to HP PCs will remain largely intact, although the company may renegotiate and redefine the relationships.
“Unwinding the integration that’s taken place within HP will be enormous amounts of work and effort, justified by the return we think we’ll be able to provide to our shareholders.”
Nevertheless, he said, “we will be one of, if not the largest, customers of all of our major suppliers, be it Samsung to LG to Microsoft to Intel.”
The Palo Alto, California-based company is now exploring options for its WebOS software, which it acquired through the acquisition of Palm, of which Bradley is a former chief executive.
Bradley has said that a number of companies had expressed interest in possibly using WebOS as an operating system, but he gave no further details on Tuesday, saying that he is not in China to announce or even negotiate anything regarding WebOS.
Acer Ultrabook pushing for September launch, says paper [Aug 31, 2011]
Acer reportedly is aiming to launch its Ultrabook in September to compete against Asustek’s UX21, which is also set to appear in the month, and has been pushing its development schedule; however, because the Ultrabook has not yet entered mass production, the plan may still be changed, according to a Chinese-language Commercial Timesreport.
An Acer executive also pointed out that the company has already revised the internal design of its Ultrabook twice and the company will only launch 13-inch models initially, the paper added.
Tablet PC fever is already cooling down, says Acer chairman [Aug 25, 2011]
Acer chairman JT Wang, commenting on tablet PC’s impact on the notebook industry, pointed out that tablet PC fever is already starting to cool down and consumers are also being attracted by notebooks again with Intel’s Ultrabooks and Microsoft’s Windows 8 the major attractions.
Acer is already set to launch an Ultrabook in September with a price as low as US$799, noted Wang adding that Acer has performed surveys and discovered that consumers have a high interest in Ultrabooks.
Some players in the PC industry agree with Wang’s prediction and pointed out that tablet PCs are mainly marketed for entertainment purposes, different from notebooks, which are also tools for work and learning. Therefore, once the tablet PC market reaches saturation, consumers’ motivation to replace tablet PCs will be a lot lower than for notebooks, causing tablet PC sales to stagnate once volumes reach a certain level.
In addition to Acer and Asustek Computer, which plan to launch Ultrabooks in September, Dell, Toshiba, Lenovo and Hewlett-Packard (HP) are all set to launch models in the fourth quarter of 2011 or the first quarter of 2012. Taiwan-based makers of components such as batteries, hinges and chassis have also started small volume pilot production, and are set to start mass shipments in the fourth quarter.
Acer president Jim Wong pointed out that although Ultrabooks will only account for a small portion of notebook shipments in 2011, the percentage is expected to reach 25-35% in 2012, a number close to Intel’s prediction of 40% by the end of 2012.
As for Windows 8, Wang believes that the operating system will contribute a stronger sales boost to notebooks than tablet PCs and will also benefit brand vendors during the back-to-school season in 2012 as the operating system’s launch date will be close to that period.
Ultrabooks and tablet PCs are short-term fads, says Acer founder [Aug 5, 2011]
Acer founder Stan Shihhas commented that the fads for ultrabooks and tablet PCs are both short-term phenomena and urged companies in the notebook supply chain to come out with more value-added products through innovation.
Shih added that Apple achieved success with iPad through its outside-the-box thinking, which is an attitude that all notebook players should learn.
Commenting on Apple bringing tablet PC and smartphone products into the PC market to compete with PC players and creating a great impact on PC demand, Shih pointed out that PCs are the base of the IT industry and tablet PCs are also developed from the base; therefore, in the future, products will still need to go through the PC platform to create even more add-on value.
As for whether Acer’s upcoming 7-inch tablet PC, which is priced less than NT$10,000 (US$345), will stir up price competition within the tablet PC industry, Shih pointed out that consumers want products with low price and convenience, and these are pressures that each player will need to face. Currently, the competition within the tablet PC market is still on track for positive development.
Acer founder optimistic about the new transition of the company [July 29, 2011]
Acer founder Stan Shih, commenting on market watchers’ concerns that the company’s purchase of iGware is overpriced, at an exhibition on July 28, pointed out that software is priceless and he believes the acquisition will give Acer a strong base to transition.
With tablet PCs having strongly impacted the traditional notebook industry, Shih pointed out that Taiwan players, which in the past only focused on developing hardware, and so have no environment to develop software, are all facing the key moment for transition.
Shih pointed out that the acquisition is a good chance for Acer, since the company is currently in the middle of a great transition and possession of world-class technologies is a must. Through the acquisition, Acer will be able to acquire a foundation and can start strengthening it to help it become world-class. This is the key motivation for the acquisition. As for concerns about overpricing, Shih only noted that everybody has a different point of view.
As for rumors that Acer’s ex-CEO Gianfranco Lanci may join Korea-based PC vendor Samsung, Shih, on July 26, pointed out that changing jobs is an usual event in the IT industry and market watchers should put too much focus on the information.
Ultrabooks may push down mainstream notebook prices [Aug 30, 2011]
As several first-tier notebook vendors are set launch sub-US$1,000 Ultrabook models in the near future, sources from channel retailers believe the appearance of Ultrabooks is likely to push vendors to reduce prices for their mainstream consumer notebooks.
Currently, notebook models that adopt ultra-thin designs are mostly high-end models with ASPs of NT$35,000 (US$1,206), a gap of about 40% compared to the ASP of mainstream notebooks.
Since consumers are likely to compare the specifications and price of notebook vendors’ Ultrabook and mainstream notebook models to make their purchasing choice, while some players such as Acer are set to launch Ultrabooks with a price as low as US$799, or Asustek Computer US$899, a range similar to that of the mainstream notebooks; therefore, the vendors may need to reduce prices of their mainstream notebooks in order to successfully digest inventory, the sources explained.
Digitimes Insight: Ultrabook key lies in penetration of ULV CPUs in mainstream notebook market [Aug 18, 2011]
Facing tablet PCs’ assault and Apple MacBook Air’s strong performance, Intel and notebook supply chain players have been pushing Ultrabook products aggressively, hoping to re-boost shipment growth of the notebook industry, and Intel is hoping its cooperation with the notebook ecosystem will increase the company’s competitiveness against Apple, according to Joanne Chien, senior analyst of Digitimes Research.
For notebook brand vendors, Ultrabooks will become a key product to defend against tablet PCs and Apple’s expansion in the IT market; however, if Intel intends to develop Ultrabooks with a similar business direction as MacBook Air, the company will end up failingbecause of high costs and uncoordinated business models, and the company will also miss the important chance to further develop into ultra-thin notebooks before ARM-based Windows 8 notebooks appear in the market.
Therefore, Ultrabook’s target segment should be the traditional notebook marketand not the niche ultra-thin notebook market, Chien noted.
Chien noted that the ultra-thin notebook market with products such as MacBook Air, limited by product cost and business model, is unlikely to become the major battlefield for the brand vendors’ Ultrabooks, but the 14- to 15-inch mainstream notebook markets are expected to see demand recover because of the adoption of Ultrabook’s design elements such as thin and light physical shapes, longer battery times, and faster boot times.
Chien added that allowing ultra low voltage (ULV) processors to penetrate into the mainstream notebook market would generate Intel more positives, compared to limiting them to the ultra-thin notebook market. The action would also help Intel to create a beneficial lineup to prevent ARM group from cutting into the notebook market; however, such a move will require Intel to compromise on its ULV CPU pricing.
First real chances for Marvell on the tablet and smartphone fronts
especially because: Kinoma is now the marvellous software owned by Marvell [Feb 15, 2011]
Update [Aug 21, 2012]: ZTE’s U880 is based on Marvell’s then market leading PXA920 single chip SoC, and was introduced a year ago at a list price of ￥1499 – US$235 but the street price came down to ￥958 – US$150 in October and now it is as low as ￥699 – US$110 [Aug 21, 2012], actually on Amazon in China (see: http://detail.zol.com.cn/cell_phone/index284242.shtml). ZTE achieved U880 sales of more than 3 million by May 15, 2012 by which it was the star TD smartphone as per 中国移动将推全频段TD终端 普及HSUPA report from Communications World Network.
End of update
Earlier updates: – Marvell Technology Group Hones Edge [Seeking Alpha, Jan 19, 2012]
…
For investors the last few years with Marvell have been tough. The stock pays no dividend. After splitting in 2004 and again in 2006, the stock price entered 2007 at well over $20 per share. At the 2008 bottom it hit a low around $4.48. Today it ended sharply up at $15.12 and represents a market capitalization of $8.8 billion.
These stock price gyrations exaggerated Marvell’s changes in revenues and net income. Total 2006 (fiscal 2007) revenue was $2.24 billion, with slightly negative net income. Revenues for 2010 (fiscal year 2011, ending January 29) were up to $3.6 billion, with net income hitting $904 million. This fiscal year 2012 revenues are trending towards $3.45 billion, but with just $690 million net income.
…
Meanwhile the main good news has been the rapid ramping of sales of Marvell-processor based smartphones in China. Marvell’s chips not only include the processor, but most of the functions needed to run a smartphone (graphics, cellular modem, wi-fi, bluetooth). Thus while brand-happy Chinese are dying (almost literally) to get iPhones, the middle-class masses are buying Android based smartphones that run on a new high-speed, invented-in-China protocol, TD. The ramp in revenue from this in calendar 2012 will be substantial, and the baseline should be noted in the Q4 report due in early March.
Which brings us back to CES (and leaves out Marvell’s leading enterprise-grade Wi-Fi and wired internet switch chips). I can only hit highlights, so many products were introduced.
Foremost, Google (GOOG) chose Marvell’s ARMADA 1500 HD Media System-on-Chip (SoC) for the next generation of Google TV. While there is no guarantee that Google TV will become a mass market product, it does much to validate the hundreds of millions of dollars Marvell has invested in research and development for ARMADA and related technologies. ARMADA is ARM-based and contains many of the same technologies used with smartphones and tablets. Google has worked closely with NVIDIA (NVDA), Qualcomm (QCOM) and other ARM-based chip designers; this is a clear sign Marvell is also in the inner circle. The ARMADA chip series has been adopted by OEMs for a wide range of consumer and business appliance applications. See also ARMADA and PXA application processors.
Plug computers are a Marvell invention: inexpensive, small but powerful computers that plug directly into electric sockets and can act as local servers. SMILE plugs are designed to connect a classroom of up to 60 students and complement the One Laptop per Child program and Marvell ARMADA based low cost, low power tablet computers. This is mainly for developing nations, but given funding shortages should be considered by U.S. schools as well.
In storage, much has been said about replacing hard drives with SSDs, and PCs with Flash-based tablets. Change has come slowly. Marvell already leads in SSD controller chips. Now it introduced a chip that attached through PCIe, an existing, faster port than the standard SATA disk port. Everyone agrees this will be popular. Alternately another chip allows for an SSD and hard drive to function together better, to lower response times while keeping bulk storage costs low.
Consumer home connectivity and automation were addressed by several products. New models of Avastar wireless chips make it easier for all sorts of devices to connect, including Internet phones and video surveillance. Lighting with LEDs was specifically addressed with new, automation-ready chips. The Smart Energy Platform, a combination of a wireless microcontroller and management software, is aimed at lowering price points for energy-conscious appliances in the home.
Except for Google, OEMs will make their own announcements as branded products become available this year.
I will wait on management’s Q4 fiscal 2012 in early March before trying to estimate directionality for the new year. Technology is rapidly evolving. More individual devices mean more information needs to be stored in the cloud, requiring in turn more HDD storage and connectivity. All these trends favor Marvell, but competitors will be gunning for the same revenue and profits.
What do I think would most enhance shareholder value? A dividend. As of last quarter Marvell had 2.4 billion in cash, no debt, and cash flow of $262 million. Marvell has used its cash mainly for stock buy backs, and is likely to continue to do so.
– China Outstrips U.S. in Smartphone Market [Nov 23, 2011]
Deliveries of smart phones to operators and retailers in China grew 58% in the third quarter from the previous quarter to 24 million units. That surpassed 23 million units delivered to the U.S. market, down 7% from the previous quarter …
Nokia Corp. had the largest share of China’s smartphone market in the third quarter, with 29%. … Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. is chasing hard with 18% of the Chinese market …
Strategy Analytics estimates that 57% of the world’s handsets were manufactured in China in 2010. … two of Nokia’s eight production facilities are based in China and the company said China is also one of its bigger suppliers of mobile handset components. …
– TD-SCDMA: US$3B into the network (by the end of 2012) and 6 million phones procured (just in October) [Oct 18, 2011]: meaning a mature TD-SCDMA market (finally) with 627 million potential customers of which only 6.4% are on the 3G
– Marvell, Lenovo and China Mobile Team Up To Drive Mass Market Adoption of China’s 3G TD-SCDMA Smartphones [Oct 26, 2011]
Marvell (NASDAQ: MRVL), a worldwide leader in integrated silicon solutions, today announced the launch of Lenovo’s LePhone A66t, a 3.5-inch high-definition screen smartphone customized for China Mobile’s 3G TD-SCDMA market and priced in the 1,000 RMB range [US$ 157]. The LePhone A66t is powered by the Marvell® PXA918 [@624MHz] platform, the first commercially available single-chip solution that integrates a high-performance, low-power application processor with an advanced multimode modem. Marvell’s advanced low-power TD single-chip solution is designed to enable exceptional user experience for watching mobile TV, navigation, video conferencing, social networking, and other popular mobile applications. It also features the Marvell Avastar™ 88W8787 wireless solution, which is Bluetooth 3.0 and FM enabled, offering exceptional Wi-Fi range with beamforming technology, robust 802.11n connectivity and crystal clear audio quality.
…
“As the second largest provider of PCs and other consumer electronics worldwide, Lenovo is committed to drive the connected lifestyle for billions of consumers around the world. Our LePhone A66t is an ideal mobile device that enables consumers easy access to social networking, e-commerce, gaming and mobile TV at an affordable price of around 1,000 RMB,” said Feng Xing, vice president and general manager of business operation at Lenovo. “Our partner Marvell is one of the top semiconductor leaders that has delivered the most advanced and competitive China 3G TD-SCDMA solution. I believe the introduction of the Lenovo LePhone A66t is a game-changer for the mass adoption of China Mobile’s 3G smartphones.”“We’re happy to see the successful collaboration between Marvell and Lenovo for creating a world-class China 3G smartphone,” said Xing Hongtao, Deputy General Manager of Marketing, China Mobile Beijing Branch. “China Mobile is very excited on the fast adoption of the advanced 1,000 RMB smartphones and we’re confident of the explosive smartphone growth in the years to come.”
Lenovo’s LePhone A66t smartphone will provide consumers a high quality CMMB digital TV experience, along with best-in-class Wi-Fi connectivity, all delivered in a sleek and sophisticated design form factor. Powered by the Marvell PXA918, Lenovo’s LePhone A66t also features Android 2.2 Operating System, Mobile Hotspot capability, a 3.5 inch high-definition screen with multi-touch support, Marvell RF808 RF transceiver and a Marvell PM8607 integrated audio and power management solution.
For more information about the Marvell PXA918, please visit www.marvell.com/communication-processors/pxa918/ or contact a sales representative.
Marvell continues to drive mass market adoption of China’s 3G TD-SCDMA standard and affirms the leadership of its PXA920, the industry’s first commercially available single-chip TD-SCDMA solution, and its Avastar 88W8787 wireless solution
…
… supporting China Mobile’s TD-HSPA (Time Division High-Speed Packet Access) network. It also features the Marvell Avastar™ 88W8787 wireless solution, which is Bluetooth 3.0 and FM enabled, offering exceptional Wi-Fi range with beamforming technology, robust 802.11n connectivity and crystal clear audio quality. The phone is available now through the retail stores of China Mobile, the largest mobile carrier in the world with over 650 million subscribers.
Update: Price of Samsung S5820 [Aug 21, 2012]: ￥1288 – US$203 (see: http://www.xj1616.com/product-1797.html)
The price leader is the ZTE-T U880 which has similar specification and a street price of ￥699 – US$110 [Aug 21, 2012] as the lowest.on Amazon in China (see: http://detail.zol.com.cn/cell_phone/index284242.shtml).
End of the update
– Price of Samsung S5820 [Oct 22, 2011]: ￥1798 – US$282 (see: http://www.xj1616.com/product-1797.html)
[￥2518 – US$395 is shown striked over, so that could be a kind of list price.]
The price leader is the ZTE-T U880 which has similar specification and a street price of ￥958 – US$150 (see: http://detail.zol.com.cn/cell_phone/index284242.shtml). The list price is ￥1499 – US$235, but the W-SCDMA ZTE Blade version is just ￥1280 – US$200 with street price as low as ￥898 – US$141. Keep in mind however that the later has an only 750 DMIPS CPU [ARM1136 @600MHz] while the PXA920 has an 1168 DMIPS CPU [Marvell PJ1 Sheeva @800MHz].)
– Marvell Drives New Rollout of TD-SCDMA Smartphones from China Mobile, the World’s Largest Mobile Operator [June 28, 2011] (emphasis is mine)
ZTE Launch Signals New Era of TD-SCDMA Smart Devices in China Powered by Marvell’s Industry-First Single Chipe Solutions
…
Blade U880, one of ZTE’s flagship smartphones, is powered by the Marvell® PXA920 and features a 3.5 inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen at a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels, delivering exquisite pictures with rich colors and multi-touch. Other features include Android 2.2 support, a TD-SCDMA +WLAN dual wireless Web connection, WLAN-AP wireless routing, CMMB (MBBMS) mobile phone TV, a 5 megapixel auto-focus camera, 720p high-definition video, GPS/AGPS navigation and a 3D graphics processing accelerator.
The TD version of ZTE Blade could be price leader because except the PXA920 SoC the rest of it is based on ZTE’s highest volume smartphone, the W-CDMA-based ZTE Blade.
See: ZTE Achieves 35 Million Handsets Milestone in First Half of 2011 [Aug 9, 2011]
In 2011, ZTE’s Blade also became one of the world’s top-selling smartphones. Through partnerships with approximately 80 operators globally [see the ZTE Blade in wikipedia for operator branding], ZTE’s Blade is now available in nearly 50 countries and regions. The Blade’s daily sales in China are the nation’s highest for Android smartphones, averaging 16,000 units per day. ZTE has now sold 2.5 million Blade handsets globally and expects to break the five million mark this year.
[This was actually achieved by a big order: ZTE Receives Order for 2 Million ZTE Blade V880 Smartphones from China Unicom [Sept 26, 2011]]
– Samsung S5820[-TD-HSDPA] [Samsung product page in Chinese only, Sept 14, 2011, as translated by Google]
Metallic appearance
– Metal body delightful sparkling.Android ™ 2.3 smart operating system
– Android ™ 2.3 smart operating platform one-upmanship.Social applications pre-installed
– Pre-happy network, all network, flying letters, Sina microblogging, social network are collected, and enjoy social fun.WLAN high-speed Internet
– WLAN high-speed Internet access speed challenge.CMMB mobile TV and mobile data services
– CMMB mobile TV and mobile data services, rich applications endless.
– Marvell Showcases 16 China Mobile TD-SCDMA Smartphones from Leading Global OEMs at PT/EXPO Comm China 2011 [Sept 25, 2011]
Product display at PT/EXPO highlights ongoing collaboration between Marvell, China Mobile and leading global OEMs to deliver affordable, advanced China’s 3G TD-SCDMA smartphones to the world’s largest mobile market
Marvell (Nasdaq: MRVL), a worldwide leader in integrated silicon solutions, today announced it will showcase a full suite of China’s 3G TD-SCDMA solutions at PT/EXPO Comm China 2011 in booth 1B005. The lineup includes smartphones, tablets and mobile hotspots powered by Marvell’s PXA920 single-chip product line and the PXA1202, the industry’s first Downlink Dual Carrier (DLDC) TD-HSPA+modem. Considered the most influential exhibition for China’s burgeoning communications industry, PT/EXPO Comm China 2011 takes place September 26 to 30 in Beijing. Marvell will demonstrate a total of 16 TD smart devices that feature its single-chip solutions from leading global OEMs: ASUS, Hisense, Huawei, Guangdong Mobile, Motorola, RIM, Samsung, Sharp, Sony Ericsson, Yulong and ZTE.
“We’re very pleased to see the great progress we’ve made with our vision of the connected lifestyle for everyone in the world. I believe the breakthrough in our China’s 3G TD-SCDMA technology with the largest mobile carrier, China Mobile, in the largest mobile market, is a major milestone and testimony to our vision. When China Mobile began its mission to build an advanced and affordable smartphone more than four years ago, Marvell was the major silicon partner who committed to the program because we believed in China Mobile’s vision and bright future of this great opportunity,” said Weili Dai, Marvell’s Co-Founder. “I believe Marvell has enabled a quantum leap in the development and adoption of the TD-SCDMA standard. For example, Marvell is leading the way to a new era of seamless global connectivity for the masses with the industry’s first single chip 3G/4G modem with support for FDD-LTE, TDD-LTE, HSPA+, TD-SDMA, and EDGE. Now through our work with other industry leaders, billions of end users can experience high-performance web browsing, live video, 3D gaming and other popular features on affordable, advanced devices including smartphones, tablets and mobile hot spots. I am very proud and thankful for Marvell’s global team of engineers for their hard work, innovation and dedication to move the industry forward. The products we are showcasing exemplify what can be accomplished with cutting-edge technology – and this is only the beginning of what’s to come with our continued commitment to TD-SCDMA.”
Marvell has partnered with the TD Industry Alliance (TDIA) at the show to demonstrate the rapid adoption and product implementation of TD-SCDMA. With its technological achievements and commitment to innovation, Marvell has been a strong supporter and contributor to the evolution of the TD-SCDMA industry in China. Other government, telecom operators and Marvell partners such as MIIT and China Mobile will also be in attendance, making the event the de facto meeting place for decision-makers in the TD ecosystem.
All of the products to be displayed – ranging from entry-level smart devices to mid-level devices with rich multimedia functions and 3D graphics – feature Marvell’s PXA 920 family of silicon, including:
- The PXA920 – The industry’s first single-chip TD solution designed for multimedia-centric handsets featuring support for both TD-SCDMA and GSM/EDGE and now shipping in more than 10 devices.
- The PXA918 – Tailor-made for entry-level smart devices, featuring 55 nm technology, 624 Mhz processors and rich multimedia functions.
- The PXA920H – Designed for mid- and high-end smart devices featuring 55 nm technology, a 1Ghz processor and support for 720p video and 250mpps 3D graphics.
Marvell will also showcase the industry’s first DLDC TD-HSPA+ Modem PXA1202, a pivotal milestone in advancing China’s TD-SCDMA standard, which can help to achieve 4X data rate increase on TD-SCDMA networks. Featuring 40 nm technology and backwards compatible with previous generations of TD-SCDMA network equipment, the PXA1202 supports DLDC, 64QAM and TS0 enhancement technologies. It is also designed to enable seamless performance with bandwidth-hungry mobile applications and multimedia devices.
Marvell’s PXA920 Family of SoCs
|
PXA918 |
PXA920 |
PXA920H |
|
| Target market | entry-level smart devices (a lower-cost yet high performance solution for multimedia-centric handsets) | multimedia-centric handsets | mid- and high-end smart devices (to provide higher performance solution for multimedia-centric handsets) |
| Silicon technology | 55 nm | 55 nm | 55 nm |
| Clock frequency | 624MHz | 806 MHz | 1GHz |
| Dhrystone performance | 870 DMIPS | 1130 DMIPS | 1400 DMIPS |
| Memory interface | LPDDR1 | LPDDR1 | LPDDR2 |
| 3D graphics performance | up to 8Mtriangle/s and 150Mpixel/s fill rate | up to 10M triangles/s sustained (20M triangles/s peak at 50% cull rate) and 200M pixels/s fill rate | up to 12Mtriangle/s sustained and 250Mpixel/s fill rate |
| Video playback performance | D1 at 30 fps for H.264, WMV, MPEG-4, H.263 | 720p at 30 fps for H.264, WMV, MPEG-4, H.263 | 720p at 30 fps for H.264, WMV, MPEG-4, H.263 |
| Video capture performance | D1 at 24 fps for H.264, WMV, MPEG-4, H.263 | D1 at 30 fps for H.264, WMV, MPEG-4, H.263 | D1 at 30 fps for H.264, WMV, MPEG-4, H.263 |
The block diagram for the SoCs is the same as shown by the PXA918 case below (only the above data written into the blocks is different):
… the rest is in the: Complete information in PDF: Marvell PXA920 Family of SoCs [Sept 25, 2011]
End of earlier updates
How Marvell is doing after Marvell’s single chip TD-SCDMA solutions beaten (again) by two-chip solutions of Chinese vendors [July 11, 2011] despite High expectations on Marvell’s opportunities with China Mobile [May 28, 2011] as well as Marvell to capitalize on BRIC market with the Moby tablet [Feb 3, 2011]?
All excerpts below are from Marvell Technology Group’s CEO Discusses Q2 2012 Results – Earnings Call Transcript and the related Question-and-Answer Session[Seeking Alpha, Aug 18, 2011]. If no question is present before a statement from a Marvell executive then it is from the presentation part. The order of excerpts is different from that of in the transcripts. Sehat Sutardja is the CEO of the company, while Clyde Hosein is Marvell’s CFO.
First question is, you guys recently — made your first foray into the tablet market. It was — I believe it was a VIZIO Tablet launched through Costco. I was wondering if you can give us any color on kind of what the initial uptake or feedback has been around that device?
Clyde Hosein: It’s still early, Sanjay, you pointed to our first foray. The price point is, we believe, is very attractive. So it’s geared for people who perhaps cater for the higher end ones. And that price has been coming down, and expected to come down in the future, and as we develop more and follow-on products. So initial reaction is very good, but it’s still early. And I don’t think we want to make too much out of it at this early stage in the game, but it’s, I think, price performance in a very good place.
All the relevant information about the VIZIO tablet, as well as VIZIO’s general CE strategy you can find in Innovative entertainment class [Android] tablet from VIZIO plus a unified UX for all cloud based CE devices, from TVs to smartphones [Aug 21, 2011].
Sehat Sutardja: … in our mobile and wireless end market, Q2 revenues increased approximately 18% sequentially and represented approximately 26% of our overall revenues. The sequential increase was driven by growth from our new products such as TD in China, and seasonal growth from our wireless connectivity solutions. We believe the headwinds that faced our mobile and wireless end market in the prior quarters are mostly behind us, and we expect to make solid progress moving forward.
…
Today, we continue to be the only provider of a single-chip TD smartphone solution. These has resulted in over 20 TD smartphones being deployed both at OEM providers and white box manufacturers with our solutions.
For example, during the last quarter, ZTE announced our 4 new Marvell-based TD devices. In addition, Motorola, Huawei, Samsung, and others are currently deploying TD smartphones based on Marvell’s solutions. We are proud to say that working closely with our customers, we have helped them achieve an unsubsidized price point of $100 for TD smartphone, a first in the industry.
In the coming months, many of these handsets will be deployed in multiple Chinese provinces, both through the carrier and the channel. Our revenues for TD smartphones have roughly doubled in the last quarter, and we expect double-digit sequential growth again in the third quarter.
…
In addition to TD, business at our largest existing mobile customer [obviously RIM] has stabilized. We expect new 3G handset devices with Marvell solutions, Marvell silicon, to come to the market in the near term, targeting the high-volume segment. Further expanding our customer base during the second half of our fiscal year, we expect to launch multiple Android-based handsets targeted for consumers in Europe, Asia and South America.
… when does, or does RIM become kind of irrelevant in the context of the overall mobile and wireless business?
Clyde Hosein: … Our dependence, however, on any single customer in the mobile space today is much lower than it was at any given period since we bought this business 5 years ago. So as Sehat mentioned earlier, we are ramping up on TD. That’s beginning to do very, very well. Marvell is really acing it on the smartphones part of it. We mentioned earlier, we’ve got price point as low as $100. This is unsubsidized into the channel. We believe that there’s a huge demand for — a huge inflection point for low-cost smartphones, and we believe we’re delivering that in this space. In addition to that, we are on the cusp and inflection of non-TD Android-based smartphones. There’s a couple that we expect to come out, we had said second half of this year, that’s still on track. So you’ll see that probably in the next quarter or 2, you’ll see very [indiscernible]. …
Sehat Sutardja: I think investors should not discount RIM. We continue to work closely with RIM in delivering new solutions. They will make the product to look really, really nice, and better performance as well. So don’t discount that. Don’t discount it at all.
Sehat, what’s kind of the read through on demand and sell-through of either the high-end Android or OMS-based TD phones thus far?
Sehat Sutardja: So as we said, we are the first to work with our customers to deliver $100 TD smartphones. This is unprecedented. Just about a year ago, these phones are [were] selling for about $400 to $500 because they are [were]based on multiple chips in a system and [that] requires a very complex implementation. As the price gets to the $100 price point, the demand actually is increasing rapidly. This is what we expect to see. And we projected this was going to happen, and we’re seeing that. We’re seeing the customer demand is increasing. And also as more and more of these products [are] qualify[ied] by China Mobile to be released into the market, we expect the volume will continue to ramp. So we’re talking about phones there that are not much higher than a low end — I mean, like a high-end feature phone. Maybe even a similar price point, just if you take into account of the touchscreen feature phones. Literally, there’s not much difference in the bill of material to build those higher touchscreen feature phonesbecause these smartphones that we’re delivering. So we are very, very optimistic that more and more — the success of many of these customers will lead to other successes.
I’m kind of curious specific to the TD business. Can you help us quantify what percent of mobile wireless it is today? And as we think about kind of the market opportunity here, where do you think that can go over the next several quarters?
Clyde Hosein: So it’s a small part today. It’s just getting started and we think, as I have indicated, we think it’s a huge opportunity. We aren’t disclosing any, whether it’s TD or anything but specific segments. But it’s a small percent of the total today. And looking forward, a lot will depend on the consumption rates in China. We are opening up — or there is a lot more channels opening up in the next few months, so I expect that to pick up. Especially wide-box channels in each of the provinces that open up with these phones. So that should expect to pick up. Tough to predict. We think it’s a huge opportunity. There is several hundred million people who at the right price point, a significant percent of them should convert. But I think the next few months would tell us better. So we firmly believe and continue to believe that these smartphones at this price range, again $100 at the low end unsubsidized, we’re already there within 2 quarters of introduction of the technology. We think that’s an inflection point for demand. It’s hard to predict what the next 2 quarter’s demand is going to be. They sell-through today, some of our revenues for the quarter is already on a sell-through basis, granted some of it is in channel. But some of it is already sell-through. People have phones already, users, and we expect that to accelerate. But the penetration rate since the new market, new country, new set of users, difficult to predict near term. We are bullish in the long haul.
Sehat Sutardja: But in the long run, I think every time you ask for a short-term, a quarter, 2 quarters, I consider short-term projection. That’s very hard to project ramps. They can be — where the slope could be 10% slope, or 5% slope, or 15% slope. So those kind of projection is extremely dangerous to provide. But what we believe internally is that when you — when China Mobile has 500 million plus — or 550 to 600 million subscribers, okay, we can model whether it’s, okay, 2 to 3 years from now whether the 30% of it will be TD smartphones. Is that going to be 40%, is it going to be 30%? Now this is a kind of model that we can play. Of course everything is based on the price elasticity. So if the price goes to $100, how many percent do we expect this thing to be maturing at. When price goes to $70, what does it mean? And I don’t see any reason why this thing cannot be $70 in a year or so from now, for example. So we are bullish in the long run. Just a short term look, it’s very hard to say exactly what that slope begins to look like.
Let me just ask you about the TD LTE transition. … Will those be phones or will those be downloads [dongles]? And as you speak to China Mobile, how do they balance the transition to TD LTE with the extensive investments they’ve made in TD-SCDMA?
Sehat Sutardja: Well, yes, TD LTEs, as you should expect in any new deployment, the dongle will definitely will go in first. It’s easier to qualify the dongle. But the biggest volume, obviously, is not in dongle, the biggest volumes will be the handset. And when you go to the handset, more likely you will go into the highest end, highest price, the high-priced handset. So that will be, more likely, the phase-in of the TD LTE. So nothing surprising. So, okay, the key is, okay, over time, is to build lower price higher integration single-chip solutions to get to the mass-market TD LTE. So don’t expect that to happen, the volume to ramp up on the mass-market any time in next year. But to get a TD, as you say, China Mobile is really investing huge amount of dollars and resources in the infrastructure, base stations, several hundred — more than 200,000 base stations deployed with TD-SCDMA. So those are the ones that most likely to be ramped up first, okay, and then follow a certain selected cities — I mean, maybe not in every part of city, but like certain, in maybe the downtown area, where maybe they will start deploying a trial TD LTE deployment to test the system. Well, maybe, I don’t know, a year or so before they were all moved — before they all spread it out to the more major market. So we have nothing surprising. These things will have its own course. The key for us is to think we work very close with China Mobile, also, to make sure they have our specifications for the TD LTE is what they need.
… can you guys review where you stand with … not TD LTE, but just traditional LTE?
Sehat Sutardja: … So related to FDD, LTE, or TDD LTE, we have already sample[d] FDD LTE, so we talked last quarter. So what we’re talking about the TDD, is that the LTE and the TDD, is we’re we have to wait for that sample at the end of this year, specifically related to the requirements that China Mobile are putting into the marketplace.
Innovative entertainment class [Android] tablet from VIZIO plus a unified UX for all cloud based CE devices, from TVs to smartphones
Update: Vizio Jumps Into PC Fray [The Wall Street Journal, Jan 7, 2012]
Vizio Inc., which shook up the market with inexpensive high-definition televisions, now wants to become a computer manufacturer.
The Irvine, Calif., company, which ranks as one of the top sellers of televisions in the U.S., plans to show a line of thin laptop computers and all-in-one desktop PCs running Microsoft Corp.’s Windows software next week at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
Vizio, which also produces Blu-ray players and a tablet, says it worked on its computer designs for two years in attempts to offer an aesthetic that competes with Apple Inc.’s popular products but at a lower price.
Vizio says it spent months, for example, shaving millimeters from its desktop computer so the central processing chip could hide in a sleek base while the screen stands attached to its thin aluminum neck.
“It doesn’t look mechanical or industrial,” said Matthew McRae, Vizio’s technology chief. “The industrial design is something we sweat.”
The closely held company said it is well aware it is entering an already crowded market. Hewlett-Packard Co., Lenovo Group Ltd., Dell Inc., Acer Inc., Toshiba Corp. and Asustek Computer Inc. are among the competitors that have staked out nearly all of the computer market. Most compete for attention from either price-conscious consumers or value-focused corporate customers.
One result has been continually falling prices and ever-tight profit margins. But Vizio said it believes its brand will entice consumers looking for distinctive designs at attractive pricing.
It is not yet specifying price points for its computers, which aren’t expected to go on sale until May. But Mr. McRae said they will cost “substantially less” than comparable products from Apple. He said the company isn’t shooting for the price range of low-end laptops, many of which sell for around $499.
The announcement comes as many other companies are trying to emulate Apple’s ultra-thin MacBook Air—which starts at $999 for an 11-inch screen—with models called ultrabooks that mainly range in price from $899 to $1,400. Vizio isn’t using the ultrabook moniker, but its laptops are also thin and offer screens ranging from 14 inches to 15.6 inches.
Vizio has been able to offer its televisions, accessories and tablets at lower prices by keeping a small staff and restricting itself to a smaller number of products. Vizio also standardizes many parts across its product line, allowing it to buy parts in bulk for cheaper prices.
The company expanded its lineup to include an 8-inch tablet, which uses Google Inc.’s Android mobile operating system. Vizio said its supply of the device—priced at $329, compared with the $499 entry price for Apple’s 9.7-inch iPad—quickly sold out after the debut in August, marking unusual demand in a crowded market where few iPad rivals have done well.
“We underestimated demand,” Mr. McRae said. He declined to disclose sales other than to say the company sold out of its initial inventory in four months and that unit sales are “way over six-figures.”
Mr. McRae said his team is working on software that will help Vizio’s televisions to share content, like movies, with its computers and tablets connected to a home network. That software, which Vizio said it plans to offer for competitors’ laptops and tablets as well, will be part of a larger strategy to tie its line of products together.
A planned update of the software will help different devices interact with one another, Mr. McRae said. A customer watching “Two and a Half Men,” for example, could open a program on his Vizio laptop that would tell him details about the episode, offer other information on the series and even connections to social networks.
Such features could help the company distinguish itself in the crowded PC market, said Tom Mainelli, an analyst at IDC.
“If they’re smart about how they bundle these products together, and make it clear your Vizio PC will talk to your Vizio TV and media tablet, it could be pretty interesting,” he said. “Customers want to share content across these devices.”
|
VIZIO 8” Tablet with WiFi [Aug 16, 2011]: |
|
| – 8″ high resolution 1024 x 768 touch screen – VIZIO Internet Apps Plus™ [V.I.A. Plus UI] – 802.11n WiFi and Bluetooth® – Front facing camera – HDMI® video output – play video and music on your TV |
– Multiple speakers for premium audio in portrait and landscape – Built-in IR blaster with universal remote control app |
… Access hundreds of thousands of apps from the Android Market™ to enjoy movies, TV shows, music and more†. … Master your domain with the Tablet’s built-in IR blaster and universal remote control app. This VIZIO-exclusive app enables the Tablet to communicate with your home theater devices‡ and control them all with the Tablet. You can also set up a profile for each room in your house and then control those devices as you move from room to room. The built-in HDMI® port is fully HDCP compliant so you can output HD video to multiple TVs and monitors, making it a breeze to watch HD content on your big screen HDTV**. …
†A wireless connection is required to access content over the Internet including apps and video chat.
‡Applies to most home theater devices which are IR controllable.
**Requires an HDTV with HDMI input.
Vizio Tablet Review [SlashGear, Aug 6, 2011]
The Vizio Tablet is a pleasant surprise. Vizio is known more for affordable TVs and it has entered the tablet market with a similar value-oriented mindset, offering an 8-inch Android slate that delivers a well thought out consumer-centric experience along with unique features that even the most discriminating tablet enthusiasts can appreciate. It has its drawbacks, but if you’re budget-conscious and want to find your first tablet that’s the best bang for the buck, then do read on for our full review.
When it comes to the hardware specs, the Vizio Tablet isn’t going to blow your mind given its cost constraints. But, what’s there has been thoughtfully selected for the least amount of compromise. The 1GHz Marvell Armada 600 Series single-core processor [details about that in Marvell ARMADA beats Qualcomm Snapdragon, NVIDIA Tegra and Samsung/Apple Hummingbird in the SoC market [again] [Sept 23, 2010]], along with 512MB of RAM, offers enough performance power without the battery drain, but we’ll get into the benchmarks and battery life later.
[The latest information on Marvell is in First real chances for Marvell on the tablet and smartphone fronts [Aug 21, 2011]]…
The VIA Plus interface brings apps to the forefront, with widget windows relegated to its own app called Widget Board. The main interface is split into two sections, one on top of the other. The first section shows all the apps in a particular category. Pressing the arrow button at the top right brings up a dropdown menu for you to select which category to display. You can add/delete categories and add/remove apps from each category. The second section shows all your apps in one place.
And, along the bottom of the screen sits a menu bar that works like a shortcut dock. There’s a total of five shortcuts that can be customized. Below is a quick video demo of the interface.
…
With $2.9 billion revenue last year (see: Kingston, Vizio Drive Minority-Owned Gain [July 24, 2011]) generated by only 196 employees the privately owned VIZIO Inc. is the prime example of a true 21st century consumer electronics company. No wonder why PCs and cloud clients are not parts of Hewlett-Packard’s strategy anymore [Aug 19, 2011].
Now VIZIO is showing an even better example of how to exploit the true commodity character of the recently formed Android ecosystem to expand its current HDTV business into the much wider realm of all cloud based consumer electronics devices. By doing so it is not only passing the big name CE and PC vendors by but also the typical actions of new entrants, what is represented – for example – by Huawei’s IDEOS U8150 smartphone for US$86 in Kenya: 350,000 units sold in 8 months [Aug 17, 2011].
In order to understand that let’s see first a short transcript excerpt from the second video below in order to better focus your attention on the value proposition video coming first:
[0:17] We are Gingerbread right now. We will advance to Honeycomb when we feel that the product is stable enough. [0:22] … [0:47] The other thing we’ve done also [in addition to an attractive price] we’ve done, I mean, Android is not very good at UI stuff. So you notice if you look at the TVs everything here is the same exact UI. We’ve spent a lot of time and effort on customizing the UI to make it really easy for users to navigate through Android. That is another thing when we look at Honeycomb, that they made some UI improvements but it is a lot more cluttered. So we’re doing a lot of work around that on Honeycomb project as well to make the user interface much better. [1:16]
… [4:00] This has a remote controller up on it. A universal remote controller. Not just VIZIO products, all other products … I mean home theater etc. So we have IR blaster here [built into the thin edge of the device], covers like ninety five percent of all CE [consumer electronics] products. … It is an application, a VIZIO application. [4:20] … [4:28] What is great about software based remote control is that when you pair it to your device it will only show you the keys that are for that device. [4:37]
VIZIO Tablet [VIZIO video, Aug 1, 2011]: the value proposition video from the vendor which is extremely well demonstrating not only the VIZIO-specific V.I.A. Plus UI but the whole new user experience
– [0:04] Listen to music – [0:19] Get social – [0:51] Read books – [1:10] View pictures and watch videos – [1:33] VIZIO’s Theater 3D. Leave behind the expensive battery powered glasses, the screen flicker, the darkened picture. – [1:46] Browse the web – [2:28] Control of your entertainment at your fingertips [i.e. the software based remote control] … [Watch at the end how easy is in the V.I.A. Plus user interface to switch over from your tablet to a Theater 3D TV set when viewing a 3D video on YouTube! See also the Theatre 3D related indormation further down in this post.]
Why Android will gain HUGE tablet marketshare later this year [Robert Scoble, June 15, 2011]
[0:17] We are Gingerbread right now. We will advance to Honeycomb when we feel that product is stable enough. [0:22] … [0:47] The other thing we’ve done also [in addition to an attractive price] we’ve done, I mean, Android is not very good at UI stuff. So you notice if you look at the TVs everything here is the same exact UI. We’ve spent a lot of time and effort on customizing the UI to make it really easy for users to navigate through Android. That is another thing when we look at Honeycomb, that they made some UI improvements but it is a lot more cluttered. So we’re doing a lot of work around that on Honeycomb project as well to make the user interface much better. [1:16] … [4:00] This has a remote controller up on it. A universal remote controller. Not just VIZIO products all other products … I mean home theater etc. So we have IR blaster here [built into the thin edge of the device], covers like ninety five percent of all CE [consumer electronics] products. … It is an application, a VIZIO application. [4:20] … [4:28] What is great about software based remote control is that when you pair it to your device it will only show you the keys that are for that device. [4:37]
Why is this huge? Because it doesn’t compete with iPad. At least not head on.
“What is Scoble smoking,” you are probably asking yourself.
Well, see, people who will buy an iPad will buy an iPad and won’t buy anything else. Count me in that group. I don’t care if Larry Page gave me $10,000 I’m not switching off of an iPad. At least not this year.
But, there are a whole range of uses that don’t need an iPad, but need a good tablet.
For instance, let’s say you are outfitting a school with tablets and all you need is a good web browser at a very low cost? Vizio wins here. Apple doesn’t.
Or, say you are a restaurant and need to put a tablet at every table with a menu on it? Vizio wins here. Apple doesn’t.
Or, like we just saw at Oakley’s headquarters, let’s say you are building a custom retail experience where you can order custom sunglasses. Are you going to spend $500 on an iPad when a $350 [$299, see the below press release from VIZIO]one from Vizio will do? No way. Vizio wins. Apple doesn’t.
Get it? This is how Android will take over the marketshare battle in tablets. There are more of these uses than the ones people use iPads for. After all, how many schools need tablets? A whole lot. How many custom retail establishments need tablets? A whole lot. How many manufacturing machines need tablets built into them? A whole lot.
Thanks to this single tablet I can now see how Android is going to get the market share numbers it needs to get developers excited.
But don’t call it an iPad competitor, OK? At least not until there are a ton of great tablet-based apps, which there aren’t today.
VIZIO’s New 8” Tablet Delivers Knock Out Video, Audio and App-based Entertainment at sub-$300 Price Point [VIZIO press release, Aug 8, 2011]
VIZIO’s New 8” Tablet Delivers Knock Out Video, Audio and App-based Entertainment at sub-$300 Price Point
– VIZIO Tablet to shake up the marketplace by offering intuitive tablet experience at a price point that extends availability to the masses
– Unique three-speaker designdelivers stereo audio in both landscape and portrait modes
– Control Your Entire Home Theater with the VIZIO Tablet’s built-in universal remote control app
– Built-in 802.11n WiFi and Bluetooth® capabilitiesoffer optimum connectivity with multiple devices
VIZIO, America’s #1 LCD HDTV company, announced today the new VIZIO 8” Tablet with WiFi is arriving at retailers nationwide. As part of VIZIO’s continued commitment to deliver great technology at a superior value, the sleek, feature-filled, Android-powered VIZIO Tablet is now available at Sam’s Club, Walmart, Costco, Amazon, and other VIZIO retailers at a breakthrough price of $299.
The VIZIO Tablet features VIZIO Internet Apps® Plus which combines the latest technologies with a unified, easy-to-use and fun user interface across select future VIZIO HDTV’s, Blu-ray® players and other devices — further differentiating the sleek VIZIO Tablet. In addition, the new Tablet is able to control nearly every element of a user’s home theater with a universal remote app and includes a built-in HDMI port with HDCP support for content protected HD playback on the big screen
…
By offering cutting edge technology and exceptional features at a competitive category price, the VIZIO Tablet is ideal for a wide range of users. With support for Adobe® Flash®, casual gamers, movie, TV and music enthusiastsare able to enjoy rich content and applications on the go. It also comes equipped with a unique three-speaker configuration, strategically placed for stereo sound in landscape or portrait mode.
Additionally, parents looking to entertain their children on-the-gocan quickly access the Android Market™ which gives access to hundreds of thousands of apps, including educational programs, games and eBooks.**
With back-to-school season in full swing, students will also find the sleek VIZIO Tablet an ideal and fun complement to a busy year as it makes checking email, news and social networks as simple as ever. Multiple storage options make saving assignments and downloading music a breeze with a MicroSD™ slotthat allows consumers the freedom to expand memory up to 32GB for optimal organization and entertainment.
“VIZIO set out to build an innovative tablet that breaks new ground and addresses the gaps in current offerings in the market,” said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. “The VIZIO Tablet offers a superior multimedia experience with its three speaker design, home theater integration with IR, and a perfect size for typing, eBooks, gaming and portability. These innovations and our ground breaking price push the category forward and deliver on our brand promise of Entertainment Freedom For All.”
About VIZIO
VIZIO, Inc., “Entertainment Freedom For All™,” headquartered in Irvine, California, is America’s HDTV and Consumer Electronics Company. In 2007, VIZIO skyrocketed to the top by becoming the #1 selling brand of flat panel HDTVs in North America and became the first American brand in over a decade to lead in U.S. TV shipments. Since 2007, VIZIO LCD HDTV shipments remain in the TOP ranks in the U.S. and was #1 for the total year in both 2009 and 2010. VIZIO is committed to bringing feature-rich consumer electronics to market at a value through practical innovation. VIZIO offers a broad range of award winning consumer electronics. VIZIO’s products are found at Costco Wholesale, Sam’s Club, Walmart, Target, BJ’s Wholesale, and other retailers nationwide along with authorized online partners. VIZIO has won numerous awards including a #1 ranking in the Inc. 500 for Top Companies in Computers and Electronics, Fast Company’s 6th Most Innovative CE Company of 2009, and made the lists of Ad Age’s Hottest Brands, Good Housekeeping’s Best Big-Screens, CNET’s Editor’s Choice, PC World’s Best Buy and OC Metro’s 10 Most Trustworthy Brands among many other prestigious honors. For more information, please call 888-VIZIOCE or visit on the web at www.VIZIO.com.
VIZIO’s First Tablet Launches the VIZIO Internet Apps Plus Ecosystem, Maximizing Your Entertainment Experience with Great Picture and Sound for the Ultimate in Gaming, Video, Chat, and Value [VIZIO press release, June 28, 2011]
– VIZIO Internet Apps® Plus (“V.I.A. Plus”) ecosystem delivers a unified and intuitive user experience across multiple devices, including HDTVs, Blu-ray players, tablets and more
– VIZIO Tablet features an 8 inch high-resolution capacitive touch screen, HD video playback with HDMI video output, front-facing camera for video chat, and unique 3 speaker configuration for stereo audio playback in both portrait and landscape modes
– With access to the world of Android apps, VIZIO Tablet brings a complete entertainment experience, whether playing games, watching videos, listening to music, having a video chat and much more
– 47 inch and 55 inch XVT 6 Series Theater 3D HDTVs with VIZIO Internet Apps Plus use Full Array TruLED technology for significant performance advantages over edge LED backlit sets, with superior uniformity, better off-angle viewing and deeper blacks
Irvine, CA and NY, NY (CEA Line Shows) – June 22, 2011 –- VIZIO, America’s #1 LCD HDTV Company*, announced today the upcoming release of its VIZIO Tablet, the first in the VIZIO Internet Apps® Plus (“V.I.A. Plus”) ecosystem. This next generation of VIZIO Internet Apps brings a unified, sophisticated and intuitive user experience across a wide range of CE devices that will include VIZIO HDTVs, Blu-ray players, tablets, smartphones and more. The first product to ship will be the VIZIO VTAB1008 VIZIO 8” Tablet with WiFi, arriving this summer to retail stores nationwide. Each VIZIO V.I.A. Plus product features a VIZIO-designed user interface that is not only intuitive but also consistent across screens, for superior ease-of-use for the casual, non-technical user. Built on the Android™ platform, users have the ability to access more than 400,000+ apps in the Android Market™.
Other VIZIO V.I.A. Plus products will include the XVT 6 series 47” XVT3D476SV and 55” XVT3D556SV Theater 3D HDTV’s, which deliver exceptional 3D picture quality thanks to VIZIO Theater 3D and Full Array TruLED™ technology, as well as Blu-ray players and the VIZIO Phone, its first smartphone.
The VIZIO V.I.A. Plus ecosystem represents the evolution of VIZIO Internet Apps®. This world-class connected ecosystem combines the latest technologies with a unified user interface to provide the very best HD entertainment experience – anywhere.
VIZIO V.I.A. Plus HDTVs and Blu-ray players will come with a premium Bluetooth touchpad universal remote with keyboard for full web browsing and search capabilities. With built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi, connecting the TV or Blu-ray player to the Internet is a snap. On the VIZIO Tablet, users can also take full control of their home theater with the Tablet’s universal remote control app and built-in IR blaster, which has codes for up to 95% of the remote controllable CE devices in the U.S.
“With the introduction of the VIZIO V.I.A. Plus ecosystem, VIZIO is bringing a new level of cohesiveness to the HD entertainment experience, beyond what conventional CE devices have been able to deliver in the past,” said Matthew McRae, VIZIO Chief Technology Officer. “Understanding that today’s user touches multiple devices in the course of their daily routines, we feel it’s important that the next generation of CE devices office a seamless user experience across all screens, from the living room to their handhelds. VIZIO V.I.A. Plus combines that common interface with today’s best innovative technologies for a connected experience that delivers on our promise of Entertainment Freedom for All.”
Just in time for summer fun, the VIZIO VTAB1008 8” Tablet with WiFi features a 1 GHz processor, an 8” high-resolution 1024×768 capacitive touch screen, built-in GPS and both 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The extended battery lasts up to 10 hoursdepending on usage. Its 2 GB of onboard storage can be easily extended with the addition of a microSD card, up to a maximum of 32 GB, for flexible storage at a fraction of the cost of other popular tablets. HD video playback is also available through its micro HDMI output, and its front-facing camera is ideal for video chats.
A Sound Approach for a Complete Entertainment Experience
A unique three-speaker design ensures users enjoy stereo audio in both portrait and landscape modes. Includes SRS TruMedia™ technology, which optimizes the audio experience on mobile devices, for enhanced audio playback and rich, natural voice communication.
VIZIO 3D Smart TVs with Full Array TruLED Picture Quality
VIZIO Internet Apps Plus also makes its entry in the emerging smart TV category with the new XVT3D476 and XVT3D556 Theater 3D HDTVs, VIZIO’s most advanced connected HDTVs yet. Their universal IR/Bluetooth remote with touchpadallow for easy web browsing, and also includes an integrated QWERTY keypad. With access to Android Market, users can find their favorite app from more than 400,000 apps currently available, and integrated Wi-Fi makes getting connected to the Internet quick and seamless.
VIZIO’s revolutionary Theater 3D technology delivers a crystal-clear, flicker-free 3D that’s up to two times brighter than current active-shutter 3DTVs, with significantly less crosstalk, a wider horizontal viewing angle and much less blurring with fast motion. Each set comes with 4 free pairs of lightweight, battery-free 3D glasses.
With VIZIO’s most advanced display technologies, these sets feature exceptional picture quality that exceeds that of the highly acclaimed XVT3SV series of HDTVs. These technologies include a TruLED display with Full Array LED backlighting and Smart Dimming, as well as 240Hz SPS™ (scenes per second) refresh rate. VIZIO Smart Dimming controls the LED levels in 160 zones, including the ability to completely turn them off to achieve a full 100% black level for an extraordinary contrast ratio. Smooth Motion technology provides sharp, blur free images with less judder, even in fast action scenes.
These new XVT3D 6 series sets will ship later this year.
*Source: IHS iSuppli Corporation Research Q2 2011 Market Tracker Report of Q1 2011 U.S. and North American LCD Market Share Shipments.
Sneak Peek at New VIZIO 3D TV – Full Scoble Interview [Robert Scoble, June 15, 2011]
Tech evangelist, Robert Scoble (@Scobleizer) interviews the VP of Product Planning about their new 3D TV.
Discover 3D (a Vizio site about Theater 3D)
Sneak Peek, VIZIO 21:9 aspect ratio TV [Robert Scoble, June 15, 2011]
Tech evangelist, Robert Scoble (@Scobleizer) checks out the upcoming Vizio 21:9 aspect ratio TV for cinema lovers.
VIZIO Brings Theater 3D™ Technology to All with a Full Lineup of Bright, Flicker-Free 3D HDTVs Including Three 21:9 Cinemawide HDTV Models [June 28, 2011]
– VIZIO announces Theater 3D HDTVs in all three product groups – E Series, M Series, XVT Series and the new 21:9 Cinemawidemodels, with screen sizes ranging from 32” to 65”
– Theater 3D™ revolutionizes 3D for the home – up to 2 times brighter, virtually flicker-free picture and significantly reduced crosstalk in comparison to current Active Shutter [3D] LCD TVs
Irvine, CA and New York (CEA Line Shows) – June 22, 2011 — VIZIO, America’s #1 LCD HDTV Company*, revealed today their full line up of Theater 3D™ LCD HDTVs, including the ultra-sleek M Series models. All of VIZIO’s new 3D HDTV models use Theater 3D passive 3D technologyto achieve superior performance with a bright, crystal clear, virtually flicker-free 3D picture. Available in each of VIZIO’s product series, E, M and XVT, in screen sizes ranging from 32 to 65 inches, Theater 3D technology will be available in 11 models at a wide range of performance and price levels, making the entertainment freedom of VIZIO’s 3D technology available for all.
“We are highly encouraged by the positive response our circular polarized 3D technology has received from industry experts, the press, and Hollywood leaders like James Cameron,” said Randy Waynick, VIZIO’s Chief Sales Officer. “VIZIO’s early commitment to this direction, with its superior viewer experience, has enabled us to develop the industry’s most comprehensive range of 3D HDTVs, ranging from introductory price levels to the most advanced cinematic displays available today.”
VIZIO Theater 3D HDTVs use a revolutionary new technology to deliver crystal-clear, flicker-free 3D that’s up to 2 times brighter than current active shutter LCD TVs, with significantly less crosstalk, a wider horizontal viewing angle, and much less blurring with fast motion. Theater 3D eyewear produces far less eyestrain and headaches than active glasses, and is battery-free, lightweight and comfortable. Up to four pairs of Theater 3D glasses are provided with each set, and they are also available in a rapidly growing range of styles and colors from brand name designers. They even work in most 3D movie theaters!
“Passive polarized 3D ¬TVs will appeal to many consumers for a variety of reasons, and products at a variety of price points are possible too,” noted Insight Media President, Chris Chinnock. “By 2014, sales of passive sets will outpace shutter glasses sets, according to our forecast.”
VIZIO’s passive Theater 3D technology utilizes circular polarization, producing superior performance that results in a better viewing experience. This technology uses Polarizer Filters built into the TV, enabling viewers to use lighter and more stylish glasses instead of the bulky, heavy and uncomfortable active shutter glasses used for other 3DTVs. VIZIO’s technology team was an early champion of this approach for 3DTV, which has led to VIZIO taking a market-leading positionin the adaptation of Passive 3D technology for the home.
“DisplaySearch is forecasting that North America 3D TV shipments will increase by more than 300% in 2011 to 7M units**, driven by a range of new 3D TV types, including circular polarizer filter systems like VIZIO’s Theater 3D,” stated Paul Gagnon, Director of North America TV Market Research, DisplaySearch.
Each Theater 3D™ model supports the widest range of 3D encoding formats, ensuring compatibility with Blu-ray, broadcast, cable, satellite, and gaming sources. These formats include Frame Packing, Side-by-Side, Top and Bottom, as well as those with SENSIO® HiFi 3D and by RealD.
VIZIO Smart Dimming for Leading Picture Performance
VIZIO’s Edge-Lit Razor LED™ technology with Smart Dimming™ is featured on the M Series models and the Cinemawide 50” and 58” HDTVs. VIZIO Smart Dimming™ intelligently controls each set’s array of LEDs, which is organized in zones. Working frame by frame, based on the content being displayed, Smart Dimming adjusts brightness in precise steps down to pure black (where the LED is completely off). This cutting-edge technology minimizes light leakage and enables a Dynamic Contrast Ratio of 5 Million to 1, for blacker blacks and whiter whites.
The XVT Series models at 47” and 55” will utilize VIZIO’s Full Array TruLED™ backlighting with Smart Dimming™ technology. With over 160 zones across the entire display, TruLED backlighting is able to control specific areas of the image to a much finer degree than edge-lit sets, resulting in even better blacks and higher contrast with life-like images that “pop” off the screen.
VIZIO Internet AppsDeliver More Entertainment Freedom
All of VIZIO’s new Theater 3D models feature the VIZIO Internet Apps® (V.I.A.) Connected HDTV platform. VIZIO Internet Apps deliver unprecedented choice and control of web-based content directly to VIZIO televisions or Blu-ray players without the need for a PC or set-top box.
VIZIO’s new XVT Series models will include the next generation VIZIO V.I.A. Plus platform, which delivers a unified and intuitive user experience across multiple devices, including HDTVs, Blu-ray players, tablets and more.
Navigating VIZIO Internet Apps is simple, using the QWERTY keypad built into the included remote control (most models). State of the art wireless Internet access is available through built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi (many models with Dual Band Wi-Fi), allowing viewers to enjoy the convenience of on-demand movies, TV shows, social networking, music, photos and more with just the push of a button.
Audio for a Home Theater Experience
The stunning 3D video of the Theater 3D™ sets is matched by the latest high performance audio technologies from SRS Labs. SRS technologies help deliver an immersive, virtual, high definition surround sound through
StudioSound™ HD – the ultimate all-in-one audio suite designed specifically for flat panel TVs. Years of excellence in audio, practical experience, and patented technologies allow StudioSound HD to deliver the most immersive and natural surround sound ever using built-in TV speakers. The suite also delivers remarkably crisp and clear dialog, rich bass, an elevated soundstage and consistent, spike-free volume levels. StudioSound HD features optimized audio presets for movies, news, sports and music while also providing a built-in EQ toolset for peak audio performance.
Experience M Series Theater 3D™ at Home
VIZIO’s newest Theater 3D™ set to hit the shelves this summer is the sleek and stunning M Series. At only 1.2” thin*** (42” and 47” models. 55” model is just 1.6” thin***), this HDTV makes the most incredible technology on the market available at the best value. Not only will you have beautiful LED 2D picture quality at 42”, 46” and 55” sizes, but the latest addition of VIZIO’s Theater 3D technology to this series will make this the perfect centerpiece to any family room. Pair that with four pairs of stylish Theater 3D™ glasses and built in VIZIO Internet Apps, and make your family room the number one summer destination.
Cinemawide HDTV Ultra-Widescreen
VIZIO’s Cinemawide HDTV™, 21:9 aspect ratio TVs are the ultimate display for cinema enthusiasts. Its unique ability to display films created in the CinemaScope 2.35:1 aspect ratio on its full screen, without any black bars, means viewers will see each frame of the movie as the director intended, providing an immersive movie experience at home. On traditional HDTV models, prime screen real estate is taken up by these black bars, forcing home theater enthusiasts to stretch and zoom in. Now instead of a stretched and distorted picture, VIZIO’s Cinemawide sets ensure movie buffswill never have to miss an inch of the action.
Most HDTVs have an aspect ratio of 16:9 (sometimes called 1.78:1), with a native resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 (Full HD). This aspect ratio was selected as the ATSC HDTV standard as a compromise between television’s original aspect ratio (4:3 or 1.33:1) and the wider 1.85:1 aspect ratio selected for the many Hollywood movies. Big-budget Hollywood blockbusters, though, are usually filmed in the much wider 2.35:1 or 2.39:1 aspect ratios. VIZIO’s new Cinemawide HDTVs accommodate these “CinemaScope” or “anamorphic” aspect ratios well with a 2.37:1 (21:9) aspect ratio. So you’ll be able to watch classics and today’s best movies in the film’s original aspect ratio and without black bars.
Cinemawide HDTV also takes VIZIO Internet Apps to the next level, making its use more seamless than ever. While watching a pixel-perfect 16:9 full HD image, full size and in the correct aspect ratio on the right side of the screen, users can simultaneously browse and use VIZIO Internet Apps on the left side of the screen– with both images presented with no compromise in resolution or size.
“Connected TVs are expected to account for 20% of Global TV Shipments in 2011, rising to 122 million units globally by 2014**, representing one of the most exciting areas of growth in the TV industry and ultra-wide aspect ratio TVs, such as 21:9, and will enable consumers to view their TV content and Internet content simultaneously without overlap,” stated Gagnon.
*Sources: Q3 2010 iSuppli and DisplaySearch Reports
**Report source: DisplaySearch Quarterly TV Design and Feature Report
***Depth without stand
VIZIO Continues to Expand the Beyond TV Product Portfolio, with Introduction of New Blu-ray Players, Sound Bars, Headphones, Wireless HD Kit, Advanced Media-Centric Wireless Internet Router and More [VIZIO press release, June 28, 2011]
– High-performance Home Theater Sound Bars, from the #1 manufacturer of Sound Bars, deliver exceptional sound quality with designs that complement a wide range of HDTV sizes and premium features that include wireless subwoofers
– Headphone models offer listening solutions for consumers from audiophiles to style-conscious listeners, with Active Noise-Cancelling Wireless Home Theater Headphones, Bluetooth headphones with microphone, and high-resolution earbuds for on-the-go mobility
– Wireless HD Kit provides freedom from unsightly cords by eliminating the need for any signal cables attached to the HDTV, delivering flawless performance with uncompressed audio and Full HD picture quality
– Universal Wireless HD Gigabit Internet Router connects any Wifi device to the Internet with optimization for streaming media, for a superior HD connected entertainment experience
– 3D Blu-ray playerswith VIZIO Internet Apps® bring the 3D experience home, with high-resolution audio and streaming access to content
-Fashionable new Theater 3D eyewear line features style and comfort, with brighter, flicker-free performance compared to Active Shutter glasses
Irvine, CA and New York, NY (CEA Line Shows) – June 23, 2011 — VIZIO, America’s #1 LCD HDTV Company*, announced today a wide range of products that provide audio, home theater and Internet streaming solutions, all part of VIZIO’s growing Beyond TV lineup. These new additional to VIZIO’s Beyond TV product portfolio represent an expansion in categories that complement VIZIO’s industry-leading LCD HDTV lineup. As the #1 manufacturer of Home Theater Sound Bars**, VIZIO will have six models available in the market with various performance levels and options to maximize your HDTV audio experience no matter the size of your home theater room. VIZIO also offers a family of headphones that should please the public, from the audiophile to the MP3 listener on-the-go, with Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Home Theater headphones, Bluetooth Stereo headphones and Sound Isolating High Performance Ear Buds. VIZIO’s Wireless HD Kit provides freedom from cords while still delivering seamless HDMI video and audio performance. The Universal Wireless HD Gigabit Internet Router prioritizes streaming media over data transmission for fewer interruptions and better performance. For those who want a comfortable, stylish alternative to bulky Active-Shutter 3D Eyewear, VIZIO offers a fashionable lineup that can be worn for Theater 3D viewing in the home and even at most movie theaters.
“Our Beyond TV products have been enthusiastically accepted by consumers, who have recognized that the high-performance value of VIZIO technology is not just limited to HDTVs,” said John Schindler, VP of Product Development at VIZIO. “Our audio products have been particularly well received, and our overall success in these new categories has helped drive our development of an ever-increasing range of accessories and even more innovative products, such as our high-performance Wireless HD Kit and Wireless HD Internet routers.”
Upgraded Audio For the Ultimate HD Experience
VHT215 Home Theater Sound Bar
Turn your room into the ultimate home theater with VIZIO’s VHT215 Home Theater Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer. The exceptionally thin and stylish design is the perfect compliment to match ultra-thin LED LCDs that are 40 inches or larger. Experience unsurpassed in class audio performance and connectivity options for multiple devices including two HDMI 1.4a inputs, one HDMI 1.4a output with Audio Return Channel support, and one each digital optical audio, coaxial digital audio and analog stereo inputs.
Featuring integrated wall-mount and table-stand options for easy installation in any home theater environment, the VHT215 delivers simplicity of use with VIZIO’s acclaimed ergonomic home theater remote control and new front panel display that can easily communicate volume and input status with the press of a button. The VHT215’s wireless capability enables freedom to place the powerful subwoofer conveniently in the room, as well as the ability to connect with any of VIZIO’s Wireless HD Audio products, including Home Theater Headphones. With no physical connection, uncompressed high definition audio is transmitted between devices at distance up to 60 feet. Available in August 2011, SRP is $329.
VSB205 Home Theater Sound Bar
Perfect for HDTVs sized 32 inches and larger, the VSB205 Home Theater Sound Bar is an excellent upgrade. Featuring SRS WOW HD audio processing, which produces rich, natural bass, with incredible high-frequency definition and clarity, the Sound Bar brings powerful sound to any home theater with dual 2¾ inch drivers for each channel.
Dual analog audio inputs (both RCA and mini 3.5mm) allow for easy one-cable connection from any TV. The Sound Bar can be either table or wall mounted with included hardware, making for a compact fit. The VSB205 is currently available at an SRP of $119.
VHT510 5.1 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater with Wireless Subwoofer
A complete 5.1 channel surround sound solution, the acclaimed VHT510 Surround Sound Home Theater Speaker System creates the ultimate in class home theater experience. This powerful yet compact Sound Bar is ideal for HDTVs 40 inches or larger. Achieve high-definition sound from the left, center and right speakers that reside in this Sound Bar, with surround channel playback from two satellite speakers and impactful low bass produced by its wireless 6.5 inch long-throw subwoofer. This VIZIO premium surround sound system supports Dolby Digital®, DTS, SRS StudioSound HD™ and SRS TruVolume™, providing listeners a truly immersive audio experience, whether listening to music, watching television or viewing movies on Blu-ray disc.
Reducing the need for unsightly wires, the subwoofer uses Wireless HD Audio™ 2.4 GHz technology to allow convenient placement of the speaker in the home theater. The Sound Bar can send High Definition quality audio to other Wireless HD Audio compatible devices like VIZIO Home Theater Wireless Headphones. With a built-in amplifier and audio receiver, this 5.1 channel system completes any home theater with all-in-one convenience. The VHT510 has a SRP of $389 and is in stores now.
XVTHP200 Home Theater Headphones with Wireless Dock for iPod
Experience unparallel sound with VIZIO’s Active Noise Cancellation High Definition Home Theater Headphones. The audiophile’s choice, these headphones provide true lossless audio for maximum quality from a convenient wireless or wired connection. Professionally-tuned 40mm Neodymium drivers with integrated Dolby Digital, SRS TruSurround™ and SRS TruVolume™, enhance both stereo and surround audio sources ensuring that even the most demanding listeners will be pleased.
The base station with dock for iPod lets users enjoy the freedom of listening to music on their iPod. Part of VIZIO’s Wireless HD Audio Ecosystem, the Home Theater Headphones work together with your VIZIO Sound Bar (VHT models) to automatically re-direct sound to the activated headphones. For folks on-the-go, VIZIO’s Active Noise Cancellation reduces background noises, helping listeners to relax and lose themselves in rich, natural sound. With a standard 3.5mm audio cable option, a built-in long-life rechargeable Lithium polymer battery, and a sleek fold and go design, the headphones are perfect for travel. For convenience, the headphones can be charged from the base station or through the provided mini-USB cable. Available now, SRP for the headphones is $309.99.
XVTHB100 Bluetooth Headphones
With VIZIO’s XVTHB100 Bluetooth Stereo Headphones, superb audio quality for wireless music listening is just the beginning. Using Bluetooth and a built-in microphone, the headphones can connect to a laptop, mobile phone and even a VIZIO Internet Apps-enabled HDTV for telephone and video calling. Answering calls, even while listening to music, is handled with a single pushbutton click.
High-performance 30mm Neodymium drivers take full advantage of advanced SRS sound processing to produce a rich, immersive audio listening environment. A lightweight, adjustable over-the-ear headband design makes the headphones comfortable even for extended listening sessions and telephone conversations. Rechargeable with up to 9 hours of talk time, these headphones are the perfect all-in-one source for work, play, and travel. Currently available, SRP is $99.99.
VHE211K and VHE211W Sound Isolating High Performance Earbuds with built-in Microphone
VIZIO’s Sound Isolating High Performance earbuds with built-in microphone are perfect for on-the-go entertainment and hands-free calls. Use them with the new VIZIO Tablet, your mobile phone, or use them for video calls for superior sound quality and sound isolation to keep out distracting ambient noise. While ordinary earbuds use ceramic magnet drives, VIZIO utilizes 9mm rare-earth Neodymium dynamic drivers that are professionally tuned to produce crisp, accurate audio with powerful bass. Listeners will find themselves rediscovering their music collections, hearing notes as they were meant to be heard.
Further improving on conventional earbuds, the VIZIO Sound Isolating High Performance earbuds are designed to insert easily and comfortably into the ear canal. Ergonomic silicone ear cushions create a tight seal within the ear, minimizing background noises and ensuring that every sonic nuance can be heard. Three pairs of in-ear cushions are provided for an optimum fit to any ear, making for a comfortable, personalized fit and exceptional low-frequency performance. Listeners that have used other earbuds will also appreciate VIZIO’s high-quality flat, tangle-resistant design that keeps the earbuds tangle to a minimum, especially important for active listeners. VIZIO’s Sound Isolating High Performance Earbuds will be available in Summer 2011 in both white and black, at an SRP of $29.99. The model number for the White version is VHE211W, and the Black version designation is VHE211K.
Stay Connected with Wireless HD Options
XWH200 Universal Wireless HD Video and Audio Kit
The XWH200 Universal Wireless HD Video and Audio Kit fulfills the longstanding dream of many HDTV owners – the elimination of signal cables connected to the set. The XWH200 transmits uncompressed full HD video and audio wirelessly to the HDTV. With no software required, up to four HDMI source components, whether they be set-top boxes, Blu-ray players or game consoles, can be connected to the remote controllable transmitter, which then sends the desired HD source wirelessly to the TV.
Compliant with the WirelessHD™ 1.0 standard, the XWH200 operates at the 60 GHz frequency and is able to handle up to 4 Gbps of data, more than enough for 1080p Full HD and 3D. Unlike other products on the market, it does not interfere with existing wireless networks, and it’s compatible with any HDMI source including game consoles, cable/satellite boxes, Blu-ray disc players, digital media receivers and more.
Users can now hide their A/V equipment away in a cabinet or other discrete location in the room, separate from the HDTV, which can now be the visual centerpiece of the home theater, floating clean on the wall as the customer has always envisioned. The XWH200 has an SRP of $229.99 and is available now.
XWR200 High Performance Universal Wireless HD Gigabit Internet Router
Following the rapid success and press acclaim for the XWR100 Router, VIZIO introduces an even higher level of Internet router performance with the XWR200. This Dual-Band Internet router operates in both the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands to allow data transmission in the lower band while streaming media in its higher frequency band.
With higher wireless transmission speeds up to 450 + 300 Mbps, media streaming is faster than ever, and its Gigabit Ethernet capability lets media intense apps or large files function at full capacity without being limited by the network bandwidth. For use in larger homes where wireless signals may be difficult to receive away from the router, the XWR200 features additional wireless power amplifiers, and adds a third antenna for the 5 GHz band. The XWR200 is expected to hit stores in first half 2012.
Experience Unparallel Video Playback with VIZIO Blu-ray Players and Theater 3D
VBR133 3D Blu-ray Player With VIZIO Internet Apps
The VBR133 3D Blu-ray Player brings the same stunning 3D and 2D picture quality and exceptional lossless surround sound and a powerful suite of streaming entertainment services. 1080p Full HD picture quality in 2D and 3D quality and both Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD audio technologies ensure the ultimate in audio and video performance. With access to VIZIO Internet Apps through a wired Ethernet connection, content from top online services like VUDU™, Netflix, HuluPlus™, Amazon Video On Demand, YouTube, Pandora and more is at the user’s fingertips, with instant access to an almost unlimited library of online movies, music and more. This player brings entertainment freedom and a premium home theater experience to any room. The VBR133 has an SRP of $109.99 and is in stores now.
VBR122 Blu-ray Player With Wireless VIZIO Internet Apps
The VBR122 Blu-ray Player brings stunning picture quality, exceptional lossless surround sound and a powerful suite of wireless streaming entertainment services. With access to VIZIO Internet Apps through an integrated WiFi connection, content from top online services like VUDU™, Netflix, HuluPlus™, Amazon Video On Demand, YouTube, Pandora and more is at the user’s fingertips, with instant access to an almost unlimited library of online movies, music and more. What’s more, the VBR122 delivers an industry-leading ergonomic remote control with an integrated full QWERTY keyboard to allow fast and easy searching for favorite movies, shows, actors, songs and more on the many available entertainment services. 1080p Full HD picture quality and both Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD audio technologies ensure the ultimate in audio and video performance. This player brings entertainment freedom and a premium home theater experience to any room. The VBR122 has an SRP of $119.99 and is in stores now.
Theater 3D Eyewear Line
VIZIO’s new line of Theater 3D eyewear is the stylish and comfortable complement to Theater 3D HDTVs. By utilizing a circular polarized 3D filter, Theater 3D moves the burden of 3D processing into the TV, allowing the Theater 3D eyewear to be free of the batteries and shutter mechanisms inherent in Active Shutter 3D TVs. In fact, Theater 3D eyewear can be used to view 3D movies in a majority of movie theaters.
Besides using more comfortable eyewear, Theater 3D offers several performance advantages over conventional Active 3D systems. Theater 3D is up to 2X brighter, has significantly less crosstalk in comparison to current Active Shutter LCD TVs, handles fast motion with less blurring, has a wider horizontal viewing angle, and eliminates the annoying flicker of Active Shutter 3D systems that often causes eye strain.
The XPG201/202 glasses feature an attractive design with curved lenses for more comfortable viewing, premium quality optical lenses for best in class 3D experience and a high quality, durable frame. Both the XPG201 single pack and the XPG202 2-pack are available this month.
*Source: IHS iSuppli Corporation Research Q2 2011 Market Tracker Report of Q1 2011.
**Source: CEA’s Q1 2011 MarketMetrics Data
# # #Source: VIZIO, Inc.
VIZIO Unveils New Smartphone and Tablet Featuring VIA Plus for Even More Entertainment Freedom [VIZIO press release, Jan 3, 2011]
Irvine, CA—January 3, 2011 — VIZIO, America’s #1 LCD HDTV Company*, announced today it is expanding into the mobility category with the VIZIO smartphone and tablet (referred to as the “VIA Phone” and “VIA Tablet” below) — both part of the VIA Plus ecosystem, the next generation of VIZIO Internet Apps™, that features a unified, sophisticated and intuitive user experience across multiple CE devices including VIZIO HDTVs, Blu-ray players, smartphones and tablets.
“Both the VIA phone and tablet feature the highest performance coupled with innovative features that tie them into the media consumption experience,” said Matthew McRae, Chief Technology Officer at VIZIO. “And by integrating the VIA Plus user experience also found on our next generation TVs and Blu-ray devices, VIZIO is delivering the multi-screen, unified ecosystem others have talked about for years and never delivered.”
The VIZIO VIA Phone features a 1 GHz processor, 4” high-resolution capacitive touch screen, 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, GPS, a MicroSD card slot for memory expansion and HDMI output with HD video playback. It also features a front-facing camera for video chats and a 5 megapixel rear camera for photos and HD video capture.
The VIZIO VIA Tablet also features a 1 GHz processor, with an 8” high-resolution capacitive touch screen, 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, GPS, a MicroSD card slot for additional memory expansion, HDMI output with HD video playback, and a front-facing camera for video chats. It also boasts a unique three-speaker design for stereo audio in both portrait and landscape modes.
Both devices include a built-in IR blaster with universal remote control appfor quick access to the entire home theater or nearly any other CE device in the home. Both run on the Android™ Platform, which will also allow users to access thousands of apps through Android Market™.
“As part of the VIA Plus ecosystem, the VIA phone and tablet are natural extensions of the HD entertainment experience that historically has centered around the TV,” added Mr. McRae. “Whether consumers are looking to enjoy content on the big screen, on their tablet or on a mobile phone, VIA Plus delivers on the promise of Entertainment Freedom for All by creating a rich and consistent user experience across all devices that’s accessible to everyone, from the power user to the casual browser.”
VIZIO will be demonstrating the VIA Phone and VIA Tablet in their private CES showcase at the Wynn Hotel from January 6 to 9, 2011.
*Sources: Q3 2010 iSuppli and DisplaySearch Reports
Important details from ABOUT VIZIO [page on vizio.com]:
VIZIO, Inc. was founded in 2002 by William Wang with the idea that everyone deserves to own the latest technology. Mr. Wang’s first two employees, Laynie Newsome and Ken Lowe, were honored as co-founders and eight years later are still hard at work taking entertainment freedom by storm! By providing a myriad of high definition entertainment options and unmatchable value, VIZIO has grown to over 160 employees and remains the first American brand in over a decade to lead in U.S. LCD HDTV sales.
VIZIO’s uncompromised technology and incredible value has continued to make us America’s Best Selling LED LCD HDTV and the industry leader in sales growth through the 2nd quarter of 2010,* as well as the Highest Rated LCD HDTV of 2010.** VIZIO’s lineup can provide an even greater value with our efficient LED backlit TVs that exceed current ENERGY STAR® 4.1 Guidelines by at least 15%***. So whether you are looking for entertainment essentials with our E Series, sleek design with the M Series, or ultimate performance with the XVT Series, VIZIO has the perfect solution to exceed all of your entertainment needs. Combined with 3D, VIZIO Internet Apps™, Wireless HD Audio, full array TruLED™ and edge lit Razor LED™ displays, we truly give you the freedom to fearlessly expand your entertainment world.
VIZIO Timeline:
2002
* Founded in October of 2002 under the name V, Inc.
* With a total of 3 employees, they provided consulting services to Gateway, Inc.2003
* Launched the VIZIO brand
* Launched Plasma monitor and DVD up-convert line at CES
* VIZIO signed on with Costco Wholesale to sell VIZIO products
* Total of 5 employees2004
* VIZIO expanded their product offerings to include LCDs, Plasmas, DVD and DLP
* Total of 25 employees2005
* VIZIO’s 50” Plasma was ranked CNETs Top Holiday Tech gift
* VIZIO signed on with Sam’s Club to sell VIZIO products
* Grew to 41 employees2006
…
* Total of 62 employees
* Shipped a total of 750,000 HDTVs2007
…
* Grew to 85 employees
* Shipped a total of 2,900,000 HDTVs2008
…
* Total of 100 employees
* Shipped a total of 3,500,000 HDTVs
* Total revenue exceeds 2 Billion Dollars2009
* VIZIO continues to add new innovative products to their portfolio such as Blu-ray® players, Home Theater Sound Bars with Wireless Sub, Motorized Wall Mounts and more.
* VIZIO launches 40 new HDTV models with sizes ranging from 19” to 55” and including the top technologies such as VIZIO Internet Apps their version of the internet connected TV, 240Hz LCD models and the latest TruLED technology which delivers the ultimate HD experience with less impact on our planet.
…
* VIZIO HDTVs can be found on more store shelves than SONY in July 2009
* Over 160 employees2010
*As CEA member, VIZIO¹s first CES booth promoted their VIZIO Internet Apps™ connected HDTVs and key platform partners Yahoo!, Twitter, vudu, & Facebook
*2010 CES announcements included eleven categories in addition to TVs including High Definition Blu-ray DVD Players™, wireless HD Internet routers and VIZIO Internet Apps™ enabled entertainment systems, HD home theater sound, HD Personal Home Theater headphones, and portable razor thin LED LCD HDTVs.
…
*196 employees total (includes 76 South Dakota and 3 international)Beyond 2010 and well into the future:
VIZIO has made great strides in providing Entertainment Freedom For All™ and will continue to build this principle through 2011. With the explosion of 3D TV, we currently have many exciting new developments to reveal at the Consumer Electronics Show and throughout the upcoming year. While staying true to our roots in vision and value, VIZIO is excited to continue and grow our brand within the U.S. and beyond. VIZIO: Taking entertainment freedom by storm!* Based on iSuppli US LCD-TV Unit Shipments Market Share Q2, 2010
**HDTV Magazine and CNET Reviews
***While TV is on
Consumers Make VIZIO the #1 LCD HDTV in North America [VIZIO press release, Feb 23, 2011]
Consumers Make VIZIO the #1 LCD HDTV in North America
- VIZIO #1 in US LCD HDTV for the full 2010 year with over 21% market share
- VIZIO’s share for Q4 US LCD HDTVs was 28%– the highest share any brand in the industry has achieved since 2004
- VIZIO led the top brands in the industry with 55% Y/Y LCD HDTV sales growth, continuing to increase their leadership role over the competition based upon consumer preference and choice
- VIZIO secures 3 spots in the top 5 Best Sellers including a popular big screen 42” model
IRVINE, CA – FEBRUARY 24, 2011— VIZIO, Inc. America’s #1 LCD HDTV Company, announced today that it outperformed the industry as the number one shipper of all flat panel HDTVs in Q4 2010 for both North America and the U.S. With an LCD HDTV share of more than 28%* VIZIO has captured the important essence of consumer desires in flat panel HDTV performance features, design form and value.
VIZIO saw significant sales increases with its 7-time award winning XVT Series lineup with VIZIO Internet Apps®, as well as in the Beyond TV category, headlined by Blu-ray players with wireless Internet apps and the nation’s bestselling Soundbars. VIZIO was also the leading shipper of LED backlit HDTVs in North America in Q4** behind the strength of its TruLED and Razor LED products shipping over 50% more backlit LED LCD TVs than its nearest competitor.
“VIZIO continues to defy conventional wisdom in the consumer electronics space with strong growth and innovation. Our team’s success has proven that consumers recognize great technology at a great price by unseating the industry’s traditional leaders in the LCD market,” stated Randy Waynick, Chief Sales Officer, of VIZIO. “Customers have embraced our higher performance product lineup and efficient retail partners in TVs and have now carried over their brand loyalty to our Beyond TV products, making VIZIO’s soundbars and Blu-ray players best sellers as well. Stay tuned in 2011 as we extend our “Entertainment Freedom for All” brand vision to Theater 3D HDTVs, tablets and smartphones.”
Adding to the meteoric growth of the brand, VIZIO’s Beyond TV Category, which includes soundbars, Blu-ray players, Headphones, Wall mounts, Cables, Wireless Routers, and other accessories, saw tremendous increases in Q4. Market-leading Soundbars saw sales growth of 200% Q/Q while sales of VIZIO’s popular Blu-ray players grew 163% representing 10% of the market***. Offering a wide range of Soundbar solutions with innovative wireless subwoofers in 5.1 and 2.1 channel configurations and sizes for small to large size televisions has allowed VIZIO to dominate this market — capturing 54% of the growing market in Q4 based on CEA’s MarketMetrics data.
VIZIO has also become a leader in some key advanced TV categories, rising to #1 in LED LCD TV unit shipments in North America and was #2 in high frame rate LCD and 40”+ screen size,” stated Paul Gagnon, Director of North American TV Research at DisplaySearch.
DisplaySearch: Top 10 LCD TV Brands in North America for the Year of 2010 (Ranking by Unit Shipments in Thousands)
Rank Vendor 2010 Market Share 2009 Y/Y% Change 1 VIZIO 6,962 18.2% 5,941 17% 2 Samsung 6,715 17.5% 6,418 5% 3 Funai 4,613 12.0% 4,758 -3% 4 Sony 3,998 10.4% 4,338 -8% 5 LG 3,711 9.7% 2,704 37% 6 Toshiba 2,274 5.9% 2,635 -14% 7 Sanyo 2,250 5.9% 2,106 7% 8 Sharp 1,243 3.2% 1,770 -30% 9 Panasonic 1,035 2.7% 889 16% 10 Westinghouse 476 1.2% 386 -1% Source: DisplaySearch February 2011
The fourth quarter’s results showed that consumers are looking for innovation as well as value for their HDTV purchases. Outpacing the industry, VIZIO LED HDTV shipments grew 993% Y/Y, Full HD LCD TVs grew 44% Y/Y, 46” and above TVs grew 92% Y/Y and 120Hz+ TVs grew 119% Y/Y***.
“U.S. consumers are demanding full-featured LCD TVs at the lowest possible prices,” said Riddhi Patel, Director, Television Systems, for IHS. “Television brands that successfully offer a combination of low pricing and advanced features, such as LED backlighting, Internet connectivity are gaining market share. Because of VIZIO’s ability to provide latest features at attractive prices, the brand has reached number 1 position in the US flat panel TV market in Q4 2010.”
iSuppli: Top 8 LCD-TV Brands in the United States for the Year of 2010
(Ranking by Unit Shipments in Thousands)
Rank Vendor 2010 Market Share 2009 Y/Y% Change 1 VIZIO 6,929 21.3% 5,920 17% 2 Samsung 6,123 18.9% 5,608 9% 3 Sony 3,373 10.4% 3,681 -8% 4 LG 2,865 8.8% 2,533 13% 5 Toshiba 2,092 6.4% 2,394 -13% 6 Sanyo 1,978 6.1% 1,934 2% 7 Sharp 1,082 3.3% 1,592 -32% 8 Panasonic 963 3.0% 1,183 -19% Total 32,459 32,324 0% Source: iSuppli Corp. February 2011
iSuppli: Top 8 All Flat Panel Brands in the United States for Q4 2010
(Ranking by Unit Shipments in Thousands)
Rank Vendor Q4 2010 Q4 2009 Y/Y% Change Q3 2010 Q/Q % Change 1 VIZIO 2,867 1,844 55% 1,602 79% 2 Samsung 2,572 2,095 23% 1,817 42% 3 LG 1,247 1,048 19% 1,025 22% 4 Sony 1,049 1,318 -20% 796 32% 5 Panasonic 793 657 21% 812 -2% 6 Toshiba 708 708 0% 533 33% 7 Sanyo 522 443 18% 651 -20% 8 Sharp 264 317 -17% 380 -31% Total 11,978 11,299 6% 9,699 23% Source: iSuppli Corp. February 2011
Further displaying VIZIO’s growing popularity for the family’s main living room TV is Quixel Research’s Q4 list of the Top 5 Best Selling models in the US LCD TV market. One of VIZIO’s 40”+ LCD TV models was both the largest and the highest priced among those ranked in the top five best sellers for the quarter.
Quixel Research Market Update – Q4 2010
Top 5 Best Sellers by Units
Manu-
facturerProduct Size Resolution Tech List Price Samsung LN32C350 32″ HD 720 LCD $499.00 VIZIO E320VL 32″ HD 720 LCD $469.99 VIZIO M260VA 26″ HD 720 LCD $399.99 VIZIO E420VO 42″ HD 1080 LCD $663.99 Samsung LN40C500
F3FXZA40″ HD 720 LCD $559.00 “VIZIO has become the brand to purchase for newest technology such as LED and Internet connected HDTV as well as their larger main living room TVs where they get the latest features at prices that allow them to step up to the next generation of entertainment,” stated Tamaryn Pratt, Analyst at Quixel Research.
*Source: iSuppli Research Q1 2011 Report of Q4 2010 US LCD Market Share
** Source: DisplaySearch Quarterly Advanced Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report
***Source: VIZIO, Inc.
Huawei’s IDEOS U8150 smartphone for US$86 in Kenya: 350,000 units sold in 8 months
The current KShs7,999 [US$86 as of today’s rate] price is a heavy discount of its original price of KShs14,999 [US$161 as of today’s rate]. Note that in non-African countries the phone is sold at near the list price, e.g. the list price in India is Rs 8,499 [US$188 as of today’s rate] while a street price is Rs 8,237 [US$182 as of today’s rate].
The original pricing was between US$100 and US$200, depending on the market and it was celebrated as the achievement of their goal from early 2010 of developing a US$150 smartphone (see the Sept’10 announcement below for both). The heavy discount used in Kenya therefore could be still a little higher than their cost.
Update: Considering all that and after PCs and cloud clients are not parts of Hewlett-Packard’s strategy anymore [Aug 19, 2011] there is no wonder that a blogpost has appeared with apt headline of Has “Wintel” been replaced by “Quadroid”? [Aug 19, 2011] in which an excerpt from a 9 months old CCNMoney article called Android and Qualcomm are the new Wintel [Nov 12, 2010] has been included. Here it is worth to cite just this part from that:
At least a dozen handset makers have brought to market more than 90 different smartphones that run Android, and more than three quarters of those handsets have Qualcomm chips embedded in them, according to a new study by consultancy PRTM.
The Qualcomm-Android standard, or “Quadroid” as PRTM calls it, is becoming a parallel to the Windows-Intel, or “Wintel,” standard that developed in the 1990s.
Like with Wintel PCs, Quadroid devices’ software and hardware is essentially a commodity — they’re very similar on every phone, making differentiation a difficult task. Form factor is still a battleground — some people want keyboards, some don’t — but drop past the top-tier of the very newest devices and the distinctions are tiny. Kickstands, dual screens, very high resolution cameras and OLED touchscreens are among the features Quadroid smartphone makers are using to set themselves apart.
With Huawei’s smartphones we are witnessing exactly this:
A slightly modified version, Huawei U8160 (see the picture on the right) is sold since May under Vodafone brand as Vodafone 858 Smart (see the specs as well where HSPA (3.6Mbps) only is indicated although using the same Qualcomm MSM 7225 SoC announced in Feb’07 and first delivered in 3G phones in June’07). It is sold at around rock bottom US$120 (22,290.00 HUF in my country). See also: Huawei U8160 is rebranded to the budget friendly Vodafone Smart [May 16, 2011] as well as the Vodafone 858 Smart review [Aug 1, 2011].
There is also a this year version called IDEOS X1 which is according to T-Mobile Rapport with Android coming soon (it’s a re-branded Huawei U8180) [July 21, 2011]:
Already released in the UK as Orange Stockholm, the Huawei U8180 X1 [also called Gaga] will be available via T-Mobile, too. Apparently, T-Mobile will sell the handset under the T-Mobile Rapport name – that’s what the Bluetooth SIG is suggesting anyway.
The specification is the same but its design is improved. Already sold in Australia for $99.
Taiwan market: China-based Huawei Device to launch IDEOS X1 smartphone [Aug 23, 2011]
Huawei Device, a China-based vendor and subsidiary of Huawei Technologies, and Taiwan mobile telecom carrier Far EasTone Telecommunications (FET) on August 22 jointly unveiled IDEOS X1, the former’s smartphone model, for launch in the Taiwan market later in August through the latter’s retail network at a contract-free price of NT$4,990 (US$172) or zero price bundled with a 24-month contract, according to FET.
IDEOS X1 features a Qualcomm MSM7227-1 600MHz processor, Android 2.2, WCDMA/GSM/GPRS and HSDPA 7.2Mbps voice/data communication standards, a 2.8-inch QVGA 262,000-pixel screen, a 3.2-megapixel rear camera, video formats of H.263/H.264 and MPEG4, a dimension of 104 (H) x 56
x 13 (D)mm and a weight of 100 grams.
Huawei announced the IDEOS X3 smartphone at MWC’11 as well (but only delivered since June’11, for around US$240 in Singapore and for around US$200 in Malaysia). This is using the 7225 follow-up Qualcomm MSM7227 SoC (announced in Feb’09 for sub-$150 smartphones).
Qualcomm chips kernel ARM – from phones to laptops [Feb 17, 2009]
MSM7227 is an evolution of the two years ago, MSM7225, repeating its size (12 x 12 mm) and maintaining consistency of contact, which provides designers the opportunity to further develop the existing developments. Working frequency ARM11 core in MSM7227 increased to 600 MHz (against 528 MHz of the predecessor), the core of the signal processor (DSP) operating at 320 MHz, and the nucleus of the communications processor – at a frequency of 400 MHz. As before, there are features hardware acceleration of graphics and coding/decoding video WQVGA with frequency 30 frames per second and support for GPS, but now supported by the camera modules with up to 8-megapixel (v. 5), and the realization had grown up with a Bluetooth version 2. 0 to 2. 1.
There is only on exception from this Quadroid dominance even for Huawei:
For the mainland China Market there is also the Huawei T8300 which is the TD-SCDMA specific redesign of X3 since the MSM7227 was not able to support TD-SCDMA so the only available SoC was Marvell’s PXA920/918 SoCs family available since Sep’09 (although capable of passing the rigorous TD-SCDMA tests only almost 2 years later). For more info on China specific TD-SCDMA entry-level smartphones see: Marvell’s single chip TD-SCDMA solutions beaten (again) by two-chip solutions of Chinese vendors [July 11, 2011].
Update: The PXA920 opportunity was realized widely only in September 2011, two years later than the September 2009 launch. See:First real chances for Marvell on the tablet and smartphone fronts [Aug 21, 2011]
End of Updates
This is — according to Singularity Hub — opening huge opportunities for African app development as well:
The Android app business is a tough one, but keeping in mind that the smartphone is Africa’s laptop killer, it’s also one of the most exciting platforms for the continent’s developers.
Case in point. An entrepreneurial conference in Nairobi called Pivot25 showcased some of the most innovative Android apps in East Africa. Among these include M-Farm, an app that allows farmers to broadcast product prices and locations to the world via SMS. Another agri-app developed by Makerere University helps diagnose and track the spread of crop diseases via crowdsourcing. In a nation where agriculture accounts for nearly a quarter of GDP, apps like these could prove invaluable in maximizing harvests and facilitating the spread of precision farming.
While agri-apps are well-suited for the developing economies, the winner of Pivot25 was Medkenya. It’s the functional equivalent to WebMD in that it puts a library of health information at the user’s fingertips and performs other helpful tasks like guiding the ill to hospitals. However, I have a hunch that this is just the beginning of healthcare-related apps in Africa. We’ve seen smartphones adopt all kinds of medical technology, from digital stethoscopes to cancer diagnosis, and I’m hopeful that we’ll see similarly stunning med-tech reach even the remotest areas one day. An app that tracks mosquito outbreaks or a smartphone with an HIV-testing peripheral would work wonders to address persisting healthcare challenges of the developing world. Who knows? Maybe one day they’ll be able to carry a doctor around in their pocket.
Cheap Android phone selling fast [IT News Africa, Aug 17, 2011]
When Huawei assistant director for African expansion, Wang Liu, talked about developing a cheap Android phone for the African market, he knew it would be successful. But after the Chinese company launched the IDEOS phone earlier this year via Kenya’s Safaricom, the results were better than they could have imagined.
“We knew it would be successful and thought it would take some time to get moving, but the statistics coming in are amazing,” Liu said.
According to Safaricom, the $80 Android phone has been sold to over 350,000. That is a staggering statistic considering nearly half of Kenya’s population lives on less than two dollars per day.
Liu said the key to the success was to bring the price down so it would be affordable to the growing middle-class in Kenya. When they were able to do that, joining with Safaricom was the solution to their distribution needs.
“We knew that if we could get the price down and make it cheap enough for people to get, lots would get out there because Android and smartphones are the future and people want the latest technology,” Liu said from Shanghai.
Kenya’s mobile market is booming and with the economy growing at some five percent annually, Huawei expects more and more Androids to be purchased in the coming months.
Huawei IDEOS is Top Smart Phone in Kenya [Huawei in Africa press release, May 17, 2011]
Huawei, a leader in providing innovative telecommunication solutions for operators around the world has today announced that the Huawei IDEOS is the most popular smart phone in Kenya for the first quarter of 2011.
This is also according to a report by GFK Retail and Technology, one of the world’s leading independent market researcher tracking sales data in technical consumer goods and entertainment in over 80 countries worldwide. The IDEOS was launched during the 2010 Christmas period with the phone gaining wide acceptance in the market.
Mr. Herman He, CEO Huawei announced that, “Since the IDEOS launch five months ago, so far over 60,000 pieces have been sold and we are moving towards the 100,000 piece mark with its share of the local smartphone market at 45% in the first quarter of the year, making it the top selling device with February alone reaching 73%.”
“We are delighted by the IDEOs’ outstanding performance and we hereby affirm our commitment to continue providing quality and affordable products to Kenyans”. Mr. He added.
Mr. He also said that Delivering connectivity for users’ thorough smart devices was one of Huawei’s core objectives for 2011, with the IDEOS devices designed to provide smart and efficient connectivity to deliver a simple and premium end user experience .
The success has partly been attributed to a strategic partnership with Safaricom as the main distributor and marketer of the smart phone, Google for their Android 2.2platform, and QUALCOMM for the chipsets.
Safaricom Head of Retail Morris Maina said the partnership was a major win for Kenyan consumers and presented a strategic fit for Safaricom in its quest to drive up data uptake by availing affordable internet enabled devices. The phone retails at KShs8,499 [US$91 as of today’s rate], a KShs6,500 discount on its original price of KShs14,999 [US$161 as of today’s rate]. It also comes with free 600MB Safaricom data and Kshs1,000 worth of Safaricom airtime.
“Safaricom believes that innovations and value proposition will be key in winning consumers as the market becomes increasingly competitive. We are thus happy to be in a partnership that subscribes to these tenets and understands that affordability is key in a market like Kenya. The availability and increased take-up of this device opens a new world of immense possibilities to our subscribers and greatly increases the utility they can derive from our network, the only one with 3G capability in the market,” said Mr Maina.
Information and Communication Permanent Secretary Dr. Bitange Ndemo noted that the mobile phone has permeated every sphere of life in Kenya.
“In the beginning of the 21st century, the mobile telephone was the reserve of an elite few and the gadget’s sole purpose was to make phone calls and send text messages. Today, all this has changed and the mobile phone is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” said Dr. Ndemo.“By morphing and adopting into various aspects of our lives, the mobile phone has gone beyond its original purpose of phone calls and text messages and it now serves as a bank, a computer a radio and a television set among other things. In a nutshell, it has penetrated every aspect of our lives,” he added.
Huawei Device is affiliated with Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. and is one of Huawei’s four business units. Huawei Device products cover a wide range of series, including mobile phones, Mobile Broadband, Convergence Terminal, Fixed Network CPE, and Video Products. Huawei Device now serves 48 of the world’s top 50 telecom operators, and it has established strategic partner relationship with world-leading operators.
In 2010, Huawei Device sold more than 5 million Android phones ranking the world’s Top 5.Star products: Avatar U8850 (Flagship, high definition, high speed, super slim, 9.9 mm thick, 3.7″ LCD) Blaze U8510 (Elite, first Android Gingerbread phone, 3.2″ LCD) Boulder U8350 (Elite, the thinnest QWERTY touch screen Android phone, 9.9 mm thick)
Huawei Launches World’ s First Affordable Smartphone with Google Called IDEOS [Sept 2, 2010]
Huawei, a leader in providing next-generation telecommunications network solutions for operators around the world, today announced the launch of IDEOSTM, an affordable smartphone powered by the latest iteration of AndroidTM 2.2 (also known as ‘Froyo’ ). The smartphone is priced between US$100 and US$200, depending on the market. IDEOS redefines the “entry-level” concept by combining high-quality hardware and software with a high price-to-performance ratio. IDEOS will be released in a number of countries across Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America and Latin America.
The ergonomically designed IDEOS provides a variety of ways to access the Internet, as it boasts downlink speeds of more than 7.2Mb/s, offers WCDMA + WiFi dual network support, and offers ubiquitous mobile broadband services. The device also doubles as a WiFi router for up to eight devices at a time, making IDEOS an all-in-one solution for a range of wireless connectivity options.
Available in black, yellow, blue, and purple, the IDEOS, with Android 2.2 pre-installed, not only runs fast, but also supports functions such as voice dialing, voice navigation, and the ability to run applications off the SD card. With more than 70,000 applications available in the Android Market, IDEOS provides a wide range of communication, entertainment, office, and financial management applications.
Kevin Tao, CEO of Huawei Device, said, “The popularity of the smartphone is one of the key tools to bringing people into the ‘Golden Age of Mobile Broadband,’ which is linked to Google’ s mobile Internet strategy.
“We are proud to have already achieved our goal from early 2010 of developing a US$150 smartphonewith an excellent user experience. The IDEOS is an affordable option, designed to lower barriers to entry to allow easy mobile Internet access.”
The name “IDEOS” embodies creativity and inspiration: the “ID” represents the industrial design-centric hardware platform, the “OS” represents the operating system as the core software platform, and the “E” symbolizes the evolution to mobile Internet.
See the official specification of the IDEOS U8150 on Huawei’s site.
The processor [rather SoC] used there is Qualcomm MSM 7225 (announced in Feb’07 and first delivered in 3G phones in June’07), with a single 528 MHz ARM1136EJ-S core and embedded QDSP5000 DSP (GSM, GPRS/EGPRS Multislot Class 12, EDGE, UMTS Release 6, 7.2 Mbps HSDPA, HSUPA 5.76 Mbps, MBMS baseband).
Huawei brings entry-level Android smartphone to Africa [IT News Africa, Nov 17, 2010]
Huawei launches IDEOS for African marketLeo Wang, Managing Director Eastern and Southern Africa Region, Terminal Business Development at Huawei Technologies, talked to ITNewsAfrica.com about Huawei’s partnersip with Google and the latest additions to its IDEOS smartphone range.
ITNewsAfrica.com: What is the latest addition to the Huawei device range?
Leo Wang: We launched our own brand IDEOS in the African market, with the latest addition an entry-level touch screen smartphone with Google’s Android 2.2 OS and 3G connectivity. We had previously launched IDEOS in rural markets in Germany in September this year and in UK, USA, China, with Africa and India being now the next targets. Worldwide, since September we have promoted IDEOS in 30 countries, with over one million units already soldthrough local operators.
ITNewsAfrica.com: What are your expectations of IDEOS in the African market for next year?
Leo Wang: This is the first entry-level 3G smartphone in Africa that offers a true smartphone experience thanks to the Google Android’s interactivity. We expect 5-7 percent of the African market to benefit directly from this, but now quantity is not as important to us as establishing the IDEOS brand. We have continuously launched smartphones and tablet devices under IDEOS brand and we have offerings for every segment of the market, be it entry-level or middle and high income. As an example, for high-end markets we have included touchscreen devices with QWERTY, multi-point touch controls and HD video output. Most of our smartphones have Android OS, through our partnership with Google.
ITNewsAfrica.com: How do you justify Android OS as your first choice for IDEOS?
Leo Wang: We are among the top three Google partners in the device market. Our close partnership is not exclusive, but offers access to the Android OS, which is an open platform with a rapidly growing application market, something we found attractive. Also, Google branding takes IDEOS to a completely new level and ensures the device’s quality and operability is of high standards.
ITNewsAfrica.com: Will Huawei develop LTE devices in the near future? And if so, when will they get to Africa?
Leo Wang: We will launch LTE devices in the next quarter for the international markets. We have already been testing LTE and WiMAX technologies globally. In Africa, discussing and testing with main operators such as MTN and Vodacom will be a starting point.
Nokia’s North America centric approach for Windows Phone 7
Follow-up:
– Nokia Lumia (Windows Phone 7) value proposition [Oct 26, 2011]
– Designing smarter phones–Marko Ahtisaari (Nokia) and Albert Shum (Microsoft) [Nov 23, 2011]
Note: Both Lumias come first to countries other than North-America where a portfolio of Lumias will be introduced just the first half of 2012.
Update 2:
– Nokia US President Chris Weber: Why Lumia’s a hit [Nokia Conversations, Dec 20, 2011]
Chief explains why the 710 is right for America and hints: you ain’t seen nothing yet
I got a few minutes with Chris Weber, President, Nokia North America, after the smartphone sales announcementlast Wednesday. Without further ado, here’s what went down…
Chris, what excites you particularly about the Nokia Lumia 710 coming to the US on T-Mobile?
First of all, this is a world-class smartphone that is aimed at converting current feature-phone owners over to the exciting world of smartphone ownership. Our numbers show that more than 150 million Americans don’t have smartphones currently. Many are on the fence because of high phone costs or high monthly plan costs.
The Lumia 710, with T-Mobile, will cost only $49 and monthly plans will cost around $50 per month.
What sets the 710 apart from the competition?
The Lumia 710 has a great hardware offering with a 1.4 Ghz SnapDragon processor, a color-popping ClearBlack display, and Nokia’s exclusive Nokia Drive, which offers great point-to-navigation so you can leave your GPS behind when traveling. Not to mention, you get Nokia’s amazing industrial design all backed by the amazing usability of Windows Phone.
This is the first look for Nokia fans in the US at Windows Phone – what’s cool about it?
Windows Phone is amazingly fast and usable right out of box. Because Windows Phone integrates popular social networks like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter – users can easily sign in and utilize these without installing apps for them.
It’s known that first-time smartphone owners hate setting up their devices and installing loads of apps just to get started on their networks of choice. On Windows Phone, you do a simple set up process and you’re good to go.
My favorite uses for Windows Phone are the People Hub, Live Tiles and the amazing Open Table integration that helps you find reservations all within the Local Scout utility – this is very cool.
Tell me more about the custom offerings for the Lumia phones, specifically Nokia Maps and ESPN – what can we look forward to?
Nokia Maps and ESPN will come pre-loaded on the phones at purchase. Rest assured that Nokia Maps is a huge platform for us that we see a lot of potential for. There will be exciting announcement and additions in the near future, but I can’t say more now.
As for ESPN, our partnership with them has yielded unique experiences and custom content to the Nokia Lumia 710. Again, we have some awesome features that sports fans will just eat up coming in the near future, we are iterating fast and news will be coming in the coming months.
So, this is the start of a set of Nokia phones, can you elaborate?
I can say that we have been talking to a number of carriers and we’ve been astounded at their overwhelming support. We will be launching more phones on other carriers. The Lumia 710 is the start of a portfolio of products aimed at the United States.
We like to call our Windows Phone Portfolio rollout “rolling thunder”. What this means is that we will have numerous announcements spread throughout the coming months that will offer something for everyone. In our view, this is a marathon, not a sprint, and we anticipate being a major player in the US market by this time next year.
More information:
– T-Mobile brings Nokia Lumia 710 to the U.S. [joint press release, Dec 14, 2011]: “Nokia and T-Mobile deliver a leading entry-level Windows Phone experience to the nearly 150 million Americans still to make the transition to smartphones.” [expected to be available starting Jan. 11]
– Nokia Lumia 710 now shipping [Dec 9, 2011]: “Second Windows Phone smartphone from Nokia reaches stores today [in Taiwan]”
Update 1:
– DroidUser999 says: … What happened to Nokia-MS Party on Aug 17th. Did they announce anything? [August 17, 2011 at 12:42 pm]
Taigatrommel says: August 17, 2011 at 6:38 pm
It was said they’d have a “small portfolio of devices” ready this year for small launch on limited regions.
I think they talked about a touch-only phone as well as one with a keyboard. So this small portfolio would include two different devices.
– More information (for the gaming and entertainment space): Nokia Windows Phone to debut on August 17 at the huge gamescom 2011 event [Aug 3, 2011 with updates up to Aug 20, 2011]
– @dnystedt Dan Nystedt
Nokia supplier, Compal, to start shipping Windows Phone 7 smartphones to Nokia in September, total 2 million in Q4, Taiwan media say.
12 Aug via web
– More information: First Nokia WP7 in Q4 via an ODM route from Compal [Aug 13, 2011, with updates up to Aug 17, 2011]
End of updates
Exclusive: Nokia to Exit Symbian, Low-End Phone Businesses in North America [AllThingsD, Aug 9, 2011]
In an interview with AllThingsD, the head of Nokia’s U.S. subsidiary [Chris Weber] said that the company will also focus exclusively on sales through traditional wireless carriers. In the past, Nokia has sold its smartphones at full price to consumers, after finding carriers unwilling to significantly subsidize or market the products. It has also had a significant — if low margin — business selling low-cost feature phones.
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North America is a priority for Nokia, Weber said, in part because it is a key market for Microsoft and also because Nokia sees it as a key to winning in the smartphone battle globally.
“We’ll develop for North America and make the phones globally available and applicable,” Weber said. “In fact, evidence of that is that the first Windows Phones that will ship are being done by our group in San Diego.”
[where the headquarters and main engineering sites of Qualcomm are]Nokia plans its biggest-ever marketing pushfocused on reestablishing its presence in the U.S.
“Without getting into numbers, it is significantly larger than anything we have done in the past and the most we will invest in any market worldwide,” Weber said. “They are putting their money where their mouth is.”
Nokia exec: Android and iPhone focus on the app is “outdated” [VentureBeat, Aug 9, 2011]
Weber … cited an effort to consolidate many of Nokia’s U.S. operations in Sunnyvale, a project he says resembles running a start-up [with a challenger mentality]. Since Weber joined Nokia in February, he’s already changed 80 percent of his leadership team, noting that he has “10 to 11 new direct reports” out of a total of 14. Weber had left Microsoft in December, after running enterprise sales for the software giant.
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Weber called Android and the iOS phone platforms “outdated.” While Apple’s iPhone, and its underlying iOS operating system, set the standard for a modern user interface with “pinch and zoom,” Weber conceded, it also forces people to download multiple applications which they then have to navigate between. There’s a lot of touching involved as you press icons or buttons to activate application features. Android essentially “commoditized” this approach, Weber said.
Nokia, by contrast, will offer a more seamless and efficient interface with its “live tiles and hubs” approach. It does this via Microsoft’s Windows Phone operating system, where applications will be integrated into everything you do. For example, if you want to communicate with a business contact, you select the contact from your address book, and then communicate in any way you want — via LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter — without having to open those individual applications. That’s because everything is built around contacts, not applications. And your profile and most important contacts are represented by tiles on your home screen, which update dynamically as you or your contacts make status updates. On the iPhone and Android, by contrast, the home screen icons remain static.
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Here’s one killer feature afforded by Mango: Using it, Nokia phones will be able to use voice commands to complete tasks without ever touching the phone. Weber demoed this feature for me (but unfortunately, wouldn’t let me shoot video of it), but here’s how it worked: When I texted him, his phone received the text and then automatically read the message out to him. He then directed his phone — again, using only voice — to reply to me with a spoken message. It arrived on my phone promptly. He did all this without ever touching his phone. And he’s said he’s used the voice feature to conduct scores of phone conversations, too, answering and hanging up without ever touching the phone. That’s pretty cool, indeed.
In fact, we’ve previously referenced this technology. However, Weber said the feature is much better than Android or Apple equivalents, because with those competing phones you have to touch the phone each time you want to initiate their voice-to-text features.
It’s a certainly a good feature to showcase, but its also not a game-changer, that massive overhaul that could give Nokia a decisive lead.
It’s not clear exactly how Nokia plans to distinguish itself from the host of other manufacturers — HTC, Samsung and LG — who are also committed to building phones on Mango.
Weber kept stressing Nokia’s superior hardware. And Nokia will also benefit from its relative leadership in location-based services via its ecommerce and maps offerings, which it owns directly, and therefore can monetize more effectively.
