smartphone

A small software update with version 11.043 (2MB) has been released by Nokia for its N78 handset. This build includes improved Bluetooth and music performance, as well as optimized camera and Naviscroll sensitivity. This is an “over-the-air” update, so Nokia Software Updater can't be used in this case.In order to get it one must  connect to the Internet and do the following in the phone's menu: Menu > Tools > Utilities > Device Manager -> Select Options > Check for updates and follow the instructions.

Finally, the highly anticipated Nokia N78 is now available at Nokia flagship stores in Chicago and New York and countless online retailers for around $560.

Get it while it's hot!

We don't know what to think... Many sources now indicate that we won't see Google Android based handsets till the fourth quarter. However, originally it was implied that the first phones will be available in 2H 2008, but when exactly was not mentioned. Knowing this, all we can say for sure is that the first Android-based HTC smartphones will be available from T-Mobile sometime this year.

Alltel will be upgrading its data network to EVDO Rev. A technology to speed up uploads. The carrier will start with 18 markets, including Charlotte, New Orleans, Phoenix and Tampa, and will be expanding from there further.

Laptop users will be the first to take advantage of the new speeds with Huawei EC228 USB and the UTStarcom UM 150 modems. The company will also allow owners of the HTC PPC6800 and HTC Touch smartphones to upgrade their devices to support EVDO Rev.

Thanks to an inventory sheet posted on HowardForums we now know the exact launch date of the anticipated Palm Treo 800w on Sprint. The device will be available to business customers starting July 9, and to other subscribers on July 13 (not July 22 like we originally thought). The launch date could be delayed of course, so don't get too excited.

The Palm Treo 800w will cost $249.

Palm and Rogers Wireless have recently announced the Canadian launch of the popular Palm Centro smartphone.The handset will be available for $199 CAD for existing customers and $299 CAD for new subscribers, however they will all have to sign a three-year contract with a required voice and data plan.

While everyone is waiting for the BlackBerry Bold to appear on the largest canadian carrier, Rogers has replaced the older BlackBerry 8800 with the 8820 model. The only noticeable difference between these two is that the latter sports Wi-Fi connectivity. The prices are CA$349, CA$499, and CA$549 on a three- ,two- , and one-year contracts (special promo price), respectively.

Rogers is ready to release three new RIM smartphones on its GSM network. These include the BlackBerry Curve 8310 in a new soft pink color, the UMA-enabled Pearl 8120 with OS 4.5, and the new Bold. The release date is yet unconfirmed, but the prices are official and are as following:

• Pink BlackBerry Curve - $199 on three years;
• Pearl 8120 - $149 on three years.

According to Akihabara, Toshiba is planning to release its Portege G810 smartphone on June 20th.

We don't know where exactly it will be available and how much it will cost, so stay tuned for more details as we get them. Meanwhile, here's a short speclist to give you an idea of what the device has to offer:

• Windows Mobile 6.1;
• HSDPA/HSUPA;
• 2.

Here's a list of prices published by HTC Singapore on some of the company's smartphones in this country.

The prices are indicated in Singapore Dollars (including 7% GST), and will come into effect on June 12, 2008.

• HTC TyTN II S$998;
• HTC Touch Cruise S$968;
• HTC Touch Dual S$848;
• HTC Touch S$588;
• HTC Shift S$2,048;
• HTC P3300 S$588.