Smart LAHATXT UNLI25 Gets Even Better with 10 Minutes Free Call

It is very obvious why SMART should update its LAHATXT UNLI25 promo for its prepaid users.



Globe’s SUPERUNLIALLTXT25 is definitely better at first launch than SMART’s LAHATXT UNLI25, right?



Well, it’s because Globe’s SUPERUNLIALLTXT25 doesn’t give you just unlimited texting to all networks, but also a 1-hour free mobile internet.

Good thing though for SMART subscribers out there, the LAHATXT UNLI25 promo gets even better now with 10 minutes free call just within Smart network. Not really that much though, yet it’s still a smarter move for, well… Smart!



Check out the official TVC after the break.

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Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It to Propel Up to 12Mbps

The Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It is certainly SMART’s answer to Globe’s 4G Tonino Lamborghini Tattoo stick.

Though haven’t been released just yet, the Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It is expected to be out early next month as a 4G broadband stick. Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It is promised to offer up to 12Mbps through SMART’s HSPA+ network.



It’s interesting to note that SMART is also pushing LTE with its SMART Evolution, but I understand it’s not widely available in the country just yet. The Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It, however, could reach to key cities like here in Cebu so I guess we’ll see dongles being sold in wireless centers locally. And if that happens, I think SMART will have a head start over Globe on the HSPA+ category since the latter’s Lamborghini stick is not yet available here. Let’s just wait anyway until SMART make the Rocket Plug-It official.



And oh, by the way, SMART’s new endorser for its mobile broadband products including the Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It is none other than the NBA 2010-2011 scoring champion, Kevin Durant. That’s a huge investment you put in there, SMART! J



Update: Complete list of Smart HSPA+ locations to use Smart Bro Rocket Plug-It.

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An Open Letter to DTI: Not All Bloggers Need Sales Promotions Permits

There is an embroiled issue surfacing out which is a pain in the neck and has been the town’s talk in the blogging planet recently.

It pertains about DTI’s demand for bloggers and the like of micro-blogging and social networking aficionados to acquire Sales Promotions Permits for their promotions, giveaways and raffles, etc. This is a hefty undertaking that must be perceived with clearest of discernment from both parties involved. Feedbacks and reactions of distinctive taste have been addressed to taking assumptions and the various issues rolling out on these so called promotions.



Now, the legal cry has commenced due to the uncertainty of the agency’s policy. Latterly, an open discourse and task analysis was brought up by the all-encompassing parties who took part for a promotion of mutual perception behind this matter. The discussion were spearheaded by DTI, members of the Philippine blogosphere, members of the Digital Filipino club, web publishers, big brand advertisers, and IMMAP members and directors, with a remarkable figure in attendance from different parts of the industry.



The business agency painstakingly adhered to its trade rule and guidelines for good. Their explanation has been explicitly anchored to a 2-decade old stipulation of which they are bound to regulate which include the sales promotion and permit to conduct as such. Nevertheless, looking to the genre of the circumstance, there are things on the other side of the fence to be considered also. It needs an amendment sort to fully accommodate the broadly diversified media and marketing field as well as in terms of eligibility.



The Consumer Act of the Philippines and its provision, due to its outmoded posture, has made lapses and conflicting welfare in its scope of consideration as recited by IMMAP or Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines, in their response to this matter. DTI needs to embrace the changes that have been adapted to the market circle and for them to achieve such, they need to review and make changes also to their provisions and protocols for a well-concerted flow of interest to happen. It’s very true, operating a millennium economy based on a 1992 regulation does not make any sense. It needs human touch to reform such, and that is the wisest move for them to acknowledge.



Calling it as a physical symbology of recognition to a regulation, we certainly comply with it but it is our prerogative and sole discretion to proofread its provision as to how well it really behaves and interferes our interests and work line to keep the best interest over and above. We needed regulations for us to see how deviated we are from the standard set up and also to gauge our compliance.



Surmising it, bloggers are very well swayed and stirred with this issue because it is not just a hindrance to their passion of insight publications but also a disturbance to their ethics of goodwill. Bloggers do what it takes to create a stream of traffic, and it takes initiative and instinct though to do it. It’s not totally money that works, it’s ones creativity that does the action.



For now, you can tell the ideals of a nation by its advertisements and very well regulated by a government, a government that does not want competition. But, there is always that inevitability of change, and it is for us to exploit and capitalize for goodwill.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 in Philippines Goes to SMART, Up Now for Reservation!

When Samsung launched the two latest Galaxy Tabs here in the Philippines last month, we knew it’s going to be available through SMART since the two already had an exclusive partnership last year with the first-gen Galaxy tablet.

And as expected, SMART is now accepting reservations from among those who want to be the first to own the Galaxy Tab 10.1. The tablet is now available exclusively for postpaid subscribers, and the best part of the offer is the accompanying Samsung phone for each plan.

• Get a FREE Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 plus a Samsung Corby 2 at Plan 2500!


• Apply for Plan 3000 to get the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 and Samsung Galaxy Mini for FREE!


• Subscribe to Plan 4000 and get the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 bundled with a Samsung Galaxy Ace!

Just in case you’re wondering why SMART bundled its postpaid plans for Galaxy Tab 10.1 with another Samsung phone, it’s probably because you can’t make voice calls through the tablet even if it comes with a SIM card. There are actually VOIP services as alternative though, but I guess SMART thought a dedicated phone could be a perfect solution.



Interested subscribers can reserve the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 and Samsung Phone from July 27 to August 12, 2011 via this link.

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The Man Without a Facebook [Video]

Got this video through Facebook which continues to go viral; it’s a parody spoofing Mel Gibson’s 1993 drama film The Man Without a Face.

The Man Without a Facebook is actually a tale of an introverted man who just hangs out with people face to face and trying to learn things without the help of, well…Google. Looks like this is going to be the movie of today’s generation, telling everyone how’s life sans social networks.



Check this out! [Thanks, Landoy!]

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Philippines, Google+ for Android is Now Available for Download Officially

That’s exactly one month since Google launched its new social network, Google+.

Right from day one, an Android App of Google+ has already been available for download at the Android Market, but initially just in the US.



A couple of days ago, there was actually a workaround in installing the app outside US (courtesy of XDA Developers), through manual installation of an .apk file on your Android device, but it’s quite tricky particularly to those who don’t want to mess their handsets. It’s good thing though the official Google+ Android App is already available for download here in the Philippines. If you got an Android device, just check out the app at the Android Market, or you can also get it by logging in to Android Market website in your PC.



For iPhone users here in the country, it’s not yet officially available for download at Philippine App Store but you can actually get it by following the instructions here.

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BlackBerry Users, BlackBerry Messenger 6 (BBM 6) is Here!

Research in Motion (RIM) may have been facing steep challenges in the “platform wars” against big players like Google, Apple, and Microsoft; but it’s viable for the Canadian phone maker to reverse what could be a chaotic less-rosy recent fortunes.



As long as the company continues innovating great functionalities on its current BlackBerry OS and the upcoming BB OS 7 phones like the BB Bold 9900 and 9930, and of course if they successfully transition to QNX – RIM could win the competition.



And by winning that basically means winning the consumers. Definitely RIM understand that best end-user software experience is important to the company strategically, and that could be the reason for optimizing its instant messenger app, the BlackBerry Messenger.

Just few hours ago, RIM announced the availability of BlackBerry Messenger 6 (BBM 6) with a new and revolutionary social experience for BBM users. The best part of BBM 6 is the App Integration which enables users to easily interact with each other from within the BBM connected app. To give you a better picture of how the new BBM 6 exactly work, take a look at the video demo below of the upcoming Foursquare app for BlackBerry smartphones.



Some of the additional functionality users can expect to see with BBM connected applications include the ability to:

• Share app experiences with friends - When a user discovers a great new BBM connected app, they can instantly let their friends know about it. Users can simply select a BBM contact directly within the BBM connected app they are using.


• Have a BBM chat within apps - Users can simply pull up their BBM contact list directly from within the BBM connected app and start chatting. For example, the functionality can enable everything from enhanced social game play to collaboration through productivity apps.


• Discover apps through friends – Users can also discover new apps by viewing the list of apps that are posted to a BBM friend’s profile. They can also click on an app within the list, and instantly download it from BlackBerry App World.

You can learn more details about BlackBerry Messenger 6 through the official press release after the break. [Thanks, Joy!]



Click to Read Press Release

RIM Delivers Revolutionary Social App Experience with BBM 6

Apps become social experiences once users can interact with their BBM friends



Waterloo, ON – 28 July 2011 – BBM™ (BlackBerry® Messenger), one of the largest mobile social networks in the world is now enabling a new and revolutionary social experience. Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) today announced the availability of BBM version 6 (BBM 6), which provides support for "BBM connected" apps, allowing users to easily interact with each other from within the BBM connected app.



BBM connected apps integrate the popular functionality of the BBM service and offer users the ability to interact with their friends from within the app itself. For example, with a BBM connected game app, users can invite their BBM friends to join them in a game and then chat with one another in real time while the game is being played – without ever leaving the game app.



BBM 6 launches today and a selection of BBM connected apps are already available on BlackBerry App World™.



“BBM 6 marks the beginning of an even greater social experience for BlackBerry smartphone users,” said Alistair Mitchell, VP, BBM Platform & Integrated Services at Research In Motion. “It also represents an incredible opportunity for developers to leverage the viral nature of the BBM service and we have already begun working with various developer partners who will be bringing their BBM connected apps to BlackBerry App World this week, offering users highly engaging app experiences.”



Some of the additional functionality users can expect to see with BBM connected applications include the ability to:



• Share app experiences with friends - When a user discovers a great new BBM connected app, they can instantly let their friends know about it. Users can simply select a BBM contact directly within the BBM connected app they are using.



• Have a BBM chat within apps - Users can simply pull up their BBM contact list directly from within the BBM connected app and start chatting. For example, the functionality can enable everything from enhanced social game play to collaboration through productivity apps.



• Discover apps through friends – Users can also discover new apps by viewing the list of apps that are posted to a BBM friend’s profile. They can also click on an app within the list, and instantly download it from BlackBerry App World.



The BBM 6 software will be available later today at www.blackberry.com/blackberrymessenger. A selection of BBM connected apps will also be posted on BlackBerry App World this week, with many more expected over the coming months.



Quotes/Partner Highlights:



"One of the keys to viral game sales is to allow users to easily invite their friends to join them in playing the games they love,” said Keith Pichelman, CEO, Concrete Software. “Integrating BBM into Pocket Ants has allowed the game to do just that."

(Concrete Software)



"RIM is a fantastic partner. We're thrilled to be working with them to provide a better experience to millions of foursquare users around the world by integrating foursquare with BBM," said Holger Luedorf, VP of Mobile and Partnerships for foursquare.

(Foursquare)



“The Huffington Post, a leader in implementing social features to reach and interact with its network of readers and bloggers, integrates the BlackBerry Social Platform to create a place where our users can continue to engage in up-to-the-minute news stories, blogs, and analysis,” said Paul Berry, CTO of the Huffington Post Media Group. “As a BBM connected app, we make it simple for our readers to easily share and discuss the news. BBM 6 allows The Huffington Post to continue to reach its audience in a new way when they are on the go, and without having to compromise on the quality of their experience."

(Huffington Post)



“Unvired Workflow for SAP enables approval of SAP workflow requests directly from the BlackBerry smartphone. Unvired leverages the BlackBerry message list and BBM to provide a familiar BlackBerry user experience,” said Srinivasan Subramanian, CEO, Indience InfoSystems Pvt Ltd. “The BBM platform has been smartly integrated to enable employees to collaborate seamlessly. If the user has some queries while approving the workflow, they can BBM their colleague or Manager, transfer a screenshot of the workflow item and clarify. They can then approve or reject the workflow request. The BBM chat can also be emailed to maintain an audit trail. The BBM integration with Unvired ensures quick turnaround and collaboration between employees, not just for workflow but other usages like checking discounts for a customer, escalating a customer grievance and much more.”

(Indience InfoSystems Pvt Ltd)



“Jingu users are engaging with BlackBerry Messenger in an exciting new way,” said Pankaj Gogia, Founder, Jingu Apps. “With BBM 6, ease of use is greatly enhanced with capabilities like updating your BBM profile picture directly from within the application. Jingu is dedicated to creating social networking applications built on the BlackBerry Messenger Social Platform that leverage the new capabilities of BBM 6 and bring enriched and vastly immersive experiences to end users.”

(Jingu Apps)



“Players have always been able to play Backgammon King against real opponents but playing against your friends took a lot of time and effort,” said Troy Johnson, Director Strategic Initiatives, Magmic. “Your BBM contacts are your friends and BBM 6 is making it incredibly easy to share Backgammon King with them and invite them to play in real-time. The ease of access to our product, the ease of sharing and the ease of player engagement are each major breakthroughs. Combine those attributes of BBM 6 with Magmics' industry leading in-game chat design and you have an incredibly entertaining experience. Trash talking your best friend over a game of backgammon has never been easier and more fun. It's no exaggeration to say, for Backgammon King, BBM 6 is a real game changer.”

(Magmic)



“PowWow uses BBM 6 integration to enable real time social event coordination,” said Kathryn Lahrs, Founder, Lahrs Apps. “Users are directly invited and notified of events that are created with our application. With PowWow, the latest information is available and BBM chats can quickly be started if any further communication is desired. Through BBM 6 PowWow users can share their location information, which is displayed in BlackBerry Maps. There is also an option to check your contact's availability directly from their calendars and to create an event with this information; this is a very useful tool in event planning and saves time in the process.”

(PowWow)



“I don’t know anyone who doesn’t immediately react to the 'chime' of BBM,” said Margaret Glover-Campbell, VP Marketing & PR of Poynt Corporation. “Being able to leverage BBM 6 to share search results provides a tremendous advantage to our BlackBerry smartphone user base who can now easily and quickly coordinate their social activities. The ability to share the app download directly within BBM is also exciting for us, given the immediacy and viral nature of the platform. From a development perspective, we see tremendous possibilities for future integration around connecting people while they’re on the go.”

(Poynt)



“Following sports is inherently social – fans are extremely passionate, and like to trash talk, comment, and generally share their opinions on whatever they’re watching,” says Dale Fallon, VP Digital Products, Score Media. “By integrating BBM 6 functionality right into the ScoreMobile experience, we enable our users to enjoy the game with their friends even when they’re not together. In a nutshell, BBM 6 integration allows sports fans to be social without having to leave the ScoreMobile app.”

(ScoreMedia)



“Telmap, a global location-based services leader, is very focused on serving all users’ needs by constantly enriching and optimizing their on-the-go experiences,” said Motti Kushnir, Telmap Chief Marketing Officer. “The integration between BBM 6 and the Telmap Mobile Location Companion significantly enriches conversations and interactions through BBM with users’ real-time locations. Telmap views this integration as an important pillar of our vision to provide a richer, more comprehensive experience to our users. We work hard to integrate our application with popular and useful platforms like BBM, to ensure added value to users who can now add location information to their interactions with friends."

(Telemap)



"BBM 6 is the underlying mobile social network making Wikitude on the BlackBerry platform a very unique experience. An augmented reality (AR) browser with millions of interesting places is already a very compelling and new proposition, but bringing it to life with millions of people who can chat, meet and share in an AR environment has the potential to revolutionize how we interact with one another. With BBM 6 and Wikitude preloaded on upcoming BlackBerry smartphones our AR browser will be truly going social for the very first time," says Andy Gstoll, CMO of Wikitude.

(Wikitude)





Opportunities for BBM App Developers

BBM app developers can submit their applications to the BlackBerry Partners Fund Developer Challenge. The competition for social apps – "Most Addictive Social apps using BBM Social Platform" – is now open for submissions until September 23, 2011. For more information please visit: www.blackberrypartnersfund.com/challenge.



More BBM connected apps ideas will be showcased at the BBM Apps Hackathon in New York City, August 11-12, 2011, where developers that won the Hackathon qualifying contest will gather for a two day coding marathon. Additional information about the winners and the Hackathon are available at: http://www.bbmnyc.com/05_winning.html



Quick Links

• BBM 6 download on BlackBerry App World: https://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/3729

• BBM web site: www.blackberry.com/blackberrymessenger

• BBM connected apps videos:

o Wikitude: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bmqN3DZC5c

o Score Mobile: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtbOUMoTPHU

o FourSquare: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqdJLCLvhoY

• BBM Social Platform SDK for developers: http://www.blackberry.com/developer/bbm





About Research In Motion (RIM)

Research In Motion (RIM), a global leader in wireless innovation, revolutionized the mobile industry with the introduction of the BlackBerry® solution in 1999. Today, BlackBerry products and services are used by millions of customers around the world to stay connected to the people and content that matter most throughout their day. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. RIM is listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market (NASDAQ: RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RIM). For more information visit www.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.

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Download Windows 7 Theme: Mac OS X Lion

Apple just released its best OS so far, the Mac OS X Lion (v10.7), and certainly Mac users out there will get to enjoy over 250 new features pegged in the entire build of the OS.

While some of Windows users love to experience the UI and several Mac OS X-inspired features right in Windows 7 machine, I’m excited to tell you that there’s already a Lion skin packed for Microsoft’s latest OS. In fact, I’ve already installed it and all I can say - it’s impressively awesome. Just to give you a preview of how Mac OS X Lion theme in Windows 7 looks like, take a look at the images below.

Click to enlarge

Click to enlarge

What I really like most with this Mac OS X Lion theme is the RocketDock, an application launcher which works seamlessly providing a dock at the bottom part of the interface. And of course, the sound effects!



If you want to try this theme, just follow the instructions below.

• 1. First, make sure to create System Restore point (My Computer > System Properties > System Protection > Create)



• 2. Download Lion Skin Pack 6.1 from here (look for the download file at the upper-right)


• 3. Extract the Zip file on the same download folder.



• 4. Right-click Lion Skin Pack 6.1 installer, then Run as Administrator.


• 5. The installation is very straight-forward, so just follow the instructions on the screen.



• 6. Select Quick Installation when asked for installation type.



• 7. Tick the boxes for UXTheme Patch, Files, and Extras, and then click Install.



• 8. You’re almost done. Just let the installer do the rest for you. When asked to download additional programs, just select OK.

Of course, do let us know how you find this Mac OS X Lion Theme for Windows 7.

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MacBook Air 2011 in Philippines: Where to Buy?

This year’s refresh of MacBook Air is already available for purchase through Apple Philippines Online Store and I’m sure it won’t take any longer to land in Philippine soil.

Just to clear things out, Apple has an online store for the Philippines but they actually didn’t put up a retail store in the country just yet. That is, when you ordered items online (like MacBooks), it ships from a Singapore-based store that sells to customers here in the country. Good thing though that there are premium resellers of Apple products here in the Philippines, and that they get a head start in catering demands locally.



I’d guess MacBook Air 2011 will be available in most of the resellers anytime this week and it could be on the buying list of Apple aficionados either as first-time purchase or an upgrade, particularly those who just bought last year’s MacBook Air. And if you’re one of them and looking for the nearest store in your location, you probably would love to hear CTB listed these stores (like what we did with iPad 2) together with their contact numbers so you can drop them a call first before you rush.

NCR / Manila area:



Digital Hub Robinsons Galleria

Digital Hub Robinsons Place Manila

Digital Hub Market Market

Digital Hub Contact No: (+632) 5714447



Power Mac Center Greenbelt 3

Tel. no. for Solutions desk: 729 - 7088

Text line: (+63917) 580-6852



Power Mac Center SM North Edsa

Tel. no.: (632) 441-1881 to 82

Text line: (+63917) 515-539



Power Mac Center Trinoma

Tel. no.: (632) 901-3981

Text line: (+63917) 515-2671



Power Mac Center Megamall

Tel. no.: (632) 633-7452 / 633-7454

Text line: (+63917) 512-9669



Power Mac Center Mall of Asia

Tel. no.: (632) 556-0791

Text line: (+63917) 515-5389



A Shop Podium

A Shop Eastwood Mall

A Shop Contact No: (632) 9140915 / 9140143



iStudio Shangrila Mall, Tel: (632) 6343103

iStudio Bonifacio High Street, (632) 8562395

iStudio Vmall, (632) 7258641

iStudio Gateway Mall, (632) 9125948

iStudio SM Manila

iStudio ADMU Campus Store



Switch Alabang Town Center, (632) 842-0794 / 217-069

Switch Marquee Mall, (045) 304-0797 / 217-0692

Switch Park Square 1, (632) 752-7365 / 217-0689

Switch Ayala TechnoHub, (632) 794-9632 / 794-9628 / 217-0690



Visayas / Mindanao Region:



PowerHub Chimes Mall Davao, (6382) 225-8997 / (6382) 225-8997

iStore Ayala Cebu, (032) 233-1310, 415-1907

iStore SM Cebu, (032) 236-4150, 412-7339

iStore SM Bacolod, (034) 707-0010

iStore SM Dumaguete, (035) 421-1988



The above list is consists of Apple premium and authorized resellers throughout the country, but you can also check the retail outlets below.



Accent Micro Festival Mall, (632) 771-1317 / 771-0779

Accent Micro Alabang Town Center, (632) 408-6509 / 807-4385

Electroworld Park Square 1, (632) 8132776

Silicon Valley SM Megamall, (632) 6331723

Silicon Valley SM North Edsa, (632) 4411385



If you think we missed one, just let us know in the comment section below.

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Microsoft’s Windows Phone “Mango” Released to Manufacturing

Windows Phone 7.1 or “Mango” is Microsoft’s major update to its Windows Phone 7 OS.

Mango will officially land this fall (around September), bringing over 500 new features to existing Windows Phone 7 handsets for free and will be made pre-installed to upcoming new phones. And now, Microsoft just confirmed that the release-to-manufacturing (RTM) build of the “Mango” update has already been released to vendors.

Earlier this morning, the Windows Phone development team officially signed off on the release to manufacturing (RTM) build of “Mango” – the latest version of the Windows Phone operating system. This marks the point in the development process where we hand code to our handset and mobile operator partners to optimize Mango for their specific phone and network configurations.

This means Windows Phone 7 users are one step closer to enjoying new added features and functionalities built to “Mango” which include:

• Threads. Switch between text, Facebook chat and Windows Live Messenger within the same conversation.


• Groups. Group contacts into personalized Live Tiles to see the latest status updates right from the Start Screen and quickly send a text, email or IM to the whole group.


• Deeper social network integration. Twitter and LinkedIn feeds are now integrated into contact cards, and “Mango” includes built-in Facebook check-ins and new face detection software that makes it easier to quickly tag photos and post to the Web.


• Hands-free messaging. Built-in voice-to-text and text-to-voice support enables hands-free texting or chatting.


• App Connect. By connecting apps to search results and deepening their integration with Windows Phone Hubs, including Music and Video and Pictures, “Mango” allows apps to be surfaced when and where they make sense.


• Improved Live Tiles. Get real-time information from apps without having to open them. Live Tiles can be more dynamic and hold more information.


• Multitasking. Quickly switch between apps in use and allow apps to run in the background, helping to preserve battery life and performance.


• Internet Explorer 9. A browser based on the powerful Internet Explorer 9 and including support for HTML5 and full hardware acceleration.


• Local Scout. Provides hyperlocal search results and recommends nearby restaurants, shopping and activities in an easy-to-use guide.


• Bing on Windows Phone. More ways to search the Web, including Bing Vision, Music Search and Voice so it’s easy to discover and decide.


• Quick Cards. When searching for a product, movie, event or place, see a quick summary of relevant information, including related apps.

To give you a better picture of all the stuff Microsoft prepped on its latest mobile OS, watch Joe Belfiore - corporate vice president of Windows Phone, showing off some of the new features coming to Windows Phone Mango. [via]

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UnionBank and Globe GCash Partnered for eMoney XChange

Transferring funds between UnionBank accounts and GCash wallet won’t be a problem anymore.

G-XChange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globe Telecom, and UnionBank of the Philippines, just inked a partnership to offer a new mobile banking service called eMoney XChange.



eMoney XChange allows UnionBank clients with EON, E-Wallet, ePayCard, and regular UnionBank savings and checking accounts, to transfer funds to and from their GCash wallets via SMS. This means UnionBank clients will get to enjoy limitless possibilities to engaging in opportunities like online business, shopping, sending remittance, and etc.



The service is now available in UnionBank’s Globe Mobile Banking facility.



To avail of the eMoney XChange service, customers simply have to call the UnionBank Customer Service at 84-186 to register their Globe mobile number and nominated UnionBank account. After activating the service, customers are now able to cash-out their GCASH funds by texting in G2U space <amount> to 2318, top-up their GCASH wallet by texting in U2G space <amount> to 2318, and inquire for their available UnionBank balance by texting in BAL to 2318.



Learn more about eMoney XChange via this link. Hit official press release after the break.



Click to Read Press Release

GCASH, UnionBank strengthens mobile banking edge with eMoney XChange service



G-XChange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globe Telecom and operator of the pioneering m-commerce service GCASH, has entered into a partnership agreement with UnionBank of the Philippines (UnionBank), for a service that will enable customers to link their UnionBank accounts to their GCASH mobile wallets.



The UnionBank-GCASH partnership for eMoney XChange is a service that enables UnionBank clients with EON, E-Wallet, ePayCard and UnionBank regular savings and checking accounts to transfer funds to and from their GCASH wallets through their UnionBank account via SMS. This service is an additional feature to UnionBank’s Globe Mobile Banking facility.



“With eMoney XChange, we are helping our customers manage their money better by providing them smarter banking solutions. In addition, we are opening up more possibilities for our customers to further engage in online opportunities like online business, shopping and sending remittance. This partnership with GCASH will also cultivate new customer relationships and strengthen existing connections.” said Ramon G. Duarte, Senior Vice President of Retail Product Development of UnionBank.



UnionBank’s award-winning EON Visa Debit Card is popularly used as a payment facility of online entrepreneurs and avid online shoppers. GCASH on the other hand, is becoming one of the most popular modes of payment for online shopping, gaming and payment sites here in the Philippines and even abroad.



“With the new service, we again offer our subscribers easier and better ways to top-up their GCASH mobile wallets,” said Paolo Baltao, president of GXI, “eMoney Xchange further demonstrates GCASH’s capability to bring together trends in technology with business, backed-up by a reliable financial platform trusted by the banking sector.”



To avail of the eMoney Xchange service, customers simply have to call the UnionBank Customer Service at 84-186 to register their Globe mobile number and nominated UnionBank account. After activating the service, customers are now able to cash-out their GCASH funds by texting in G2U space to 2318, top-up their GCASH wallet by texting in U2G space to 2318, and inquire for their available UnionBank balance by texting in BAL to 2318.



For more information about eMoney XChange, visit www.unionbankph.com and to know more about GCASH, go to www.globe.com.ph/gcash.

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Hyundai Elantra 2011 Test Drive and Mini-Review

I got invited last weekend by a local dealer of Hyundai cars here in Cebu to test drive Hyundai Elantra 2011.

I was hesitant at first because I honestly not a car expert and am not really sure how I’m going to write my impression particularly in the technical viewpoint of the Elantra models. Fortunately, I have this friend of mine who’s passionate about cars so I hooked him up for a ride and asked his thoughts afterwards.



There are actually 2 variants of Elantra 2011 for test drive; however, we only tested the 1.6 GL A/T variant since we were only allowed to tour around the IT Park area. Good thing though if we had it at the SRP road so we can check the most of its driving experience. Here’s what my friend has to say on his brief encounter of Hyundai Elantra 2011:

As usual with Korean-branded cars, the Hyundai Elantra 2011 boasts of superb handling and suspension. Though it's an unfair assessment for the car as it was being test driven just in the IT Park vicinity, a short sample of its brilliance gave me a feel of oomph from this current crop of models. I couldn’t make a difference testing both 1.6L GL A/T and 1.8L GLS A/T variants due to the limited space and availability of distance I could make for the test ride, but for recommendation sake, I'll jump with the 1.6 variant if I have the opportunity to purchase one...

Thanks, dhuDz!



In my own non-technical impression of the car, I’m impressed of its engine. It runs smooth and you almost can’t hear it inside even when the car accelerates. I stand around 5’7” tall and I think Hyundai Elantra 2011 was designed with Western people in mind. What I mean, it’s really spacious inside that when I extended my legs when seated I felt as if I’m still short. As a gadget and tech junkie, I was excited if Elantra 2011 models have something to showcase inside, but no – it only got audio system and the rest are just controls. Still, a Sedan like Hyundai Elantra 2011 is impressive, at least in my own point of view.



You may check Hyundai 2011 Price, Specs, and Photos after the break.



Prices:



Php 868,000 for the 1.6L GL Hyundai Elantra 2011 model

Php 980,000 for the 1.8L GLS Hyundai Elantra 2011 model



Variants:



1.6L GL Manual Transmission

1.6L GL Automatic Transmission

1.8L GLS Automatic Transmission



Engine Variants:



130ps 1.6L Gamma MPI D-CVVT, 150ps 1.8L MPI D-CVVT



Standard Specs and Features:



6 Speed Manual and Automatic Transmission, Motor Driven Power Steering with Tilt and Telescopic Adjustment, Disc Brakes, 15" 5-Spoke Alloy, Halogen Headlamps with Safety Escort Function, ABS with EBD, Keyless Entry with Alarm, High Mount Stop Lamp, Power with Electric Heated Side Mirrors, Tuner/CD/MP3 with AUX In and USB, Glass Printed Antenna and Trip Computer.



GLS Variant:



Audio Controls on Steering Wheel, 16" 5-Spoke Alloy, Fog Lamps, Side Repeater, Dual Airbags, Parking Sensors, 60:40 Split Fold Rear Seats, 6 Speakers.

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iOS 4.3.5, iOS 4.2.10 Released [Apple Direct Download Links]

So you thought iOS 5 is the next update to Apple’s latest iPhone firmware iOS 4.3.4 and iOS 4.2.9? Well, you got yourself wrong.

Apple surprisingly released another minor update to iOS 4.3; the latest firmware version is now iOS 4.3.5, and it's still unclear if this would be the last update before releasing iOS 5. iOS 4.3.5 is available for: iOS 3.0 through 4.3.4 for iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4 (GSM), iOS 3.1 through 4.3.4 for iPod Touch 3G and 4G, iOS 3.2 through 4.3.4 for iPad 1 and iPad 2.



Technical details of the update states:

An attacker with a privileged network position may capture or modify data in sessions protected by SSL/TLS

You may read more of the details of this update at Apple Support website.



Likewise, firmware for CDMA-based iPhone 4 has also been updated to iOS 4.2.10 which addresses the same security issue. You can learn more about the update here.



iOS 4.3.5 and iOS 4.2.10 are available for download via iTunes. Just plug in your device to your computer, locate it in iTunes sidebar, and click to check for updates. iOS 4.3.5 comes in as Build 8L1, while iOS 4.2.10 as Build 8E600.



Note that those who wanted to keep their untethered jailbreak in iOS 4.3.3 or iOS 4.2.8 must stay away from downloading iOS 4.3.5 and iOS 4.2.10, or else you will lose your untethered jailbreak. Just stay tuned for updates when it’s already safe to update as far as untethered jailbreaking is concerned.



For those who want to download iOS 4.3.5 and iOS 4.2.10 directly from Apple servers for later upgrade, you may refer to the links below. Just select the right firmware for your device.



iPhone 3GS: iPhone2,1_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPhone 4 (GSM): iPhone3,1_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPod Touch 3G: iPod3,1_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPod Touch 4G: iPod4,1_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPad 1: iPad1,1_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPad 2 (Wi-Fi): iPad2,1_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPad 2 (GSM): iPad2,2_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPad 2 (CDMA): iPad2,3_4.3.5_8L1_Restore.ipsw

iPhone 4 (CDMA) : iPhone3,3_4.2.10_8E600_Restore.ipsw

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Globe Bundles Up BlackBerry PlayBook and BlackBerry Smartphone in Single Plan

The BlackBerry PlayBook is expected to land in the Philippines and will be available in authorized retail stores and mobile operators come August 6.



And as some of you may already knew, the PlayBook only supports Wi-Fi connectivity and don’t have native 3G functionality. The PlayBook could be disappointing if you’re looking for a tablet which support both 3G and Wi-Fi technologies, or if you prefer a tablet which you can use to connect to the internet outside Wi-Fi hotspots. And because the PlayBook is lacking 3G support, it would be difficult for Telcos to offer data plan for the tablet.



But no, RIM actually designed the PlayBook that way. The Canadian smartphone maker thought the lack of 3G support on its tablet can be resolved through its app called BlackBerry Bridge. Basically, the BlackBerry Bridge is an app you can download to a BlackBerry smartphone to get access to email, calendar, contacts, and etc. on a separate tablet device. In other words, BlackBerry Bridge may allow the PlayBook to access the internet by tethering connection from a BlackBerry smartphone.



Here’s the catch though. Since the BlackBerry Bridge only works between BlackBerry devices, that simply means you will always need a BlackBerry smartphone to access the web in PlayBook. Being said that, Globe Telecom now offers a plan for the PlayBook which is bundled with a BlackBerry smartphone. You can check the matrix below for details of each plan.

Click to enlarge

The offer is of limited-time only, from July 22 to 29, and available stocks are limited as well. Globe says the offer is just exclusive for online applicants and they will start shipping ordered units nationwide starting August 3. If you’re interested, you may hit this link to pre-order your units.

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Watch Noynoy Aquino SONA 2011 Online Live Streaming

This is Cebu Tech Blogger’s public service post.

Philippine President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III will deliver his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) this afternoon, 4PM, Philippine Time.



As of this writing, President Aquino has just arrived at the House of the Representatives, Batasang Pambansa Complex, Quezon City.



SONA 2011 will start exactly as scheduled and for the benefit of those who have no direct access to the coverage of national televisions, there are actually live streams available in the internet.



You may watch ABS-CBN’s SONA 2011 online live stream here and GMA News TV online stream here.



You may also check the embedded live stream below.



Update 1: 4:58 PM, Philippine Time

Streaming links and embedded video had already been removed. SONA 2011 officially adjourned.



Update 2: 6PM, Philippine Time

Here's the replay video of Philippine President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III SONA 2011.

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Element Case Vapor 4 for iPhone

Most of iPhone 4 protection accessories I’ve seen so far are made of either rubber or plastic, but this one really caught my attention.

Called Vapor 4 iPhone Case, I guess this is one of the sexiest yet hardcore casings available in the market today. Made of aircraft grade aluminum for strong hold, Vapor 4 protects the sides of an iPhone just like what the usual Apple Bumper for iPhone 4 does. So if you accidentally drop your iPhone and impact on objects sideways, fret nothing.

You can still use other protection for the front and rear glass panels though, like ZAGG Invisible Shield and among others. When I held the iPhone with Vapor 4 installed, I didn’t notice any reception issue which is good for iPhone 4 which has a known problem in signal performance when hands covers the antennae.

Vapor 4 is being manufactured by an American company Element Case, and a quick browsing on its website reveals several features and here's what they can say about its product:

• Despite its minimalist appearance, the Vapor is CNC machined from a solid block of aircraft grade aluminum. In other words, it's strong and light (19 grams)!


• A CNC on/off button is designed into the case to complete the clean lines.


• The finish of the Vapor case is anodized to create a hard protective coating in brilliant colors. Yes, black is a color. We love anodized black.


• In true Element Case™ style, the graphics are laser engraved.


• The inside of the Vapor case is lined with a very high tech shock absorbing material that reduces the G-forces of an impact.

Vapor 4 is priced $79.99 which is really quite more expensive compared to other cases, but I think it's just fair for its build. I got a tip it's available locally (iStore), but wasn't able to confirm its price. I'm wondering if anyone here rocking Vapor 4 for iPhone?

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Revert / Bring Back the Old Facebook Chat Interface [How to]

Tired and disappointed with the new changes rolled in Facebook chat interface recently? Well, so am I.



The good thing though, particularly in Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, there’s the Greasemonkey scripts which can customize web pages and some functionalities of web applications to meet the requirements of the users. Being said that, bringing back the old chat interface in Facebook is possible.



I reverted already the old Facebook chat interface in my personal Facebook account, and I thought some of you may also want to do the same. If so, just follow the steps below on how to get back the old Facebook chat interface.



Note: This trick will only work in Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.



1. First, download Greasemonkey extension. For Google Chrome users, you don’t need to download Greasemonkey since the Chrome browser natively supports the extension. Firefox users need to install Greasemonkey add-on and you can get it here.

2. Install Chrome / Firefox Facebook Sidebar Chat Reversion user script from here.

That’s it. You’re already done. Just refresh your browser to see the changes in Facebook interface.



Optional:



In Google Chrome, if you want to get back the old Facebook chat interface while in Incognito Mode, just tick the box that says “Allow in Incognito” under “Facebook Sidebar Chat Reversion” in Extensions (Settings > Tools > Extensions).

Bonus:



The old Facebook chat pop-out mode is still live. If you want to use it instead of modifying the new Facebook design with Greasemonkey script, just click on this link.



Here’s the screenshot of my Facebook profile with the new chat interface untouched.

Click to enlarge

And here’s the new one after installing Facebook Sidebar Chat Reversion user script. It’s the old Facebook chat interface you'll see in the lower-right.

Click to enlarge

It’s cool, isn’t it?

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Oh Heck, CTB is Suspended in Google Plus! Google+ Doesn’t Allow to Use Your Brand in Profiles

In the advent of Google Plus, I’m among the first to receive private invitations from Google.



As an active technology blogger and social media evangelist here in the Philippines, I thought setting up an account in Google+ could expand your network in the interwebs. In fact, when I announced that CTB is already in Google+, online friends and readers start adding CTB in their respective “Circles”. It feels good; really, that more and more people are following you because of what you’re doing in the internet. That is in my case, bringing the latest technology trends that affects the “Pinoys” particularly the “Cebuanos” inside and out of the country.



Honestly speaking, I blog professionally that even I have no formal training in tech journalism – I try to follow the right blogging ethics. And I understand that part of it is the awareness of the terms when using tools in social media. We may be aware of it the first time, but most probably missed its changes from time to time. I must admit that I did an honest mistake with Google+, which is, not reading the latest Community Standards set by Google. And I’m saying that some fellas out there actually don’t read these terms of services, do you?



Straight to the point, CTB is currently suspended in Google+. And the reason for this was using "Cebu Tech Blogger" in the name fields in profile, instead of my real name "Bert Padilla".

Click to enlarge

Google’s updated Community Standards highlights:

Display Name

To help fight spam and prevent fake profiles, use the name your friends, family, or co-workers usually call you. For example, if your full legal name is Charles Jones Jr. but you normally use Chuck Jones or Junior Jones, either of these would be acceptable.

To make it more specific, name and Google profiles states:

Your profile and name must represent one person.

Google Profiles doesn’t support profiles for couples or groups of people. Additionally, you can’t create a profile for a non-person entity such as a pet or business. Google may continue to allow existing profiles that don’t meet these criteria, as long as the profile names are unchanged.

In other words, Google doesn’t allow you to use your “brand” as your name in profiles. Not yet. Google says, they’re working and will soon launch a profile for businesses and other entities later this year.



So if you’re using your company name or network in Google+, great chance you’ll also get suspended. By now, I suggest you modify your name before Google determine you’re also violating its policies.

Click to enlarge

I’ve already edited my Google+ profile and as of the moment though, Google is reviewing it and I’m still waiting what could be the results. I’ll keep you posted.



Update: Google already reinstated CTB Google+ account.

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Smart Intros “Always On” Data Plan

Seriously, this complements the great offers Smart Communications had introduced just this month to its 47 million subscribers.



First, they introduced unlimited text to all networks for its prepaid subscribers. Few days later, they started offering unlimited call and text plan to postpaid subscribers. And this time, they have something to offer for internet-junkies and it’s called “Always On” Plan.



Always On plan is basically a flexible volume-based plan for SMART Postpaid, Prepaid, and Broadband subscribers. What it means is you only have to pay for how much bandwidth you consume for a particular period of time. To give you a better picture of this offer, take a look at the matrix below.

As you can see for example with “Always On 20”, you only have to pay Php 20 in 1 day, good for 25MB of bandwidth. This is way better than Php 50 unlimited browsing a day, but you actually didn’t go online that long. Or that’s even better than the regular rate of Php 10 per 30 minutes as long as you don’t download huge amount of data for that time-frame. Another good thing with this plan is users get notified when a particular package is about to expire; say for example only just 20% of the bandwidth left before the regular rate of Php 10 per 30 minutes apply.



Selecting the best package actually depends on how you use the internet.



Always On Plan is available from Php 20 for 1 day with 25MB of data, up to Php 995 for 1 month with 2GB of bandwidth.



To register, you only have to send the corresponding keywords to 2200 (refer to the matrix above).



So what do you think of this new offer from SMART? Do hit the comment section below.

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Smart Unlimited Call and Text Postpaid Plan, Up Now!

You know the sexy lady in the ad below, right? Well, that’s the simply gorgeous yet very talented Filipina actress, Anne Curtis.

But we’re not talking about her. Instead, we’ll talk about her latest endorsement for Smart Communications.



Following its offer to prepaid subscribers, an unlimited text to all networks, Smart now also has unlimited offers for Postpaid subscribers. First is the Plan 299, which is an unlimited SMS or text plan that comes with a free Samsung E1080 handset. The second one is the Plan 599, which is bundled with unlimited call and text, plus a free Nokia C1-01 phone. Check out corresponding rates below.

But unlike the prepaid unlimited offer, SMART Unli Postpaid Plans’ unlimited service only applies to or within SMART, Red, Talk N’ Text, and Addict Mobile subscribers. That simply means if you send SMS or call numbers in Globe or Sun Cellular networks, you will be billed on top of the monthly service fee.



I can personally claim this is still a great offer for SMART subscribers, particularly those who frequently send SMS and make calls, so if you think you’re one of them – go check out this link to apply.

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Download Free Angry Birds for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad

If you own any of Apple mobile devices like iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad – and looking for puzzle games to play, presumably you have Angry Birds in mind.



Angry Birds is inarguably one of the best games for mobile handsets, in fact – the casual video games review site, Imagine Games Network or simply IGN, listed the game as the fourth best iPhone game of all time. For the records, Angry Birds had already reached 250 million downloads last month, that includes paid and free versions in all platforms.



In Apple App Store, Angry Birds is available both as free and paid app, in which each version has different sets of gameplay or levels, as well as the features. Definitely the paid versions come with the best package, but free versions are also good for trials until you decide of purchasing the paid ones.



I listed below all available Free Angry Birds for download in iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad devices. The list will be updated as soon as new versions are posted in App Store. Just select the right app that will work in your device.



Angry Birds Lite, compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad running iOS 4.0 or later.

Angry Birds Lite is the first free version of the game released which was designed to cater early versions of iPhone and iPod Touch such as iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, and iPod Touch 3G. But of course this will also work in iPhone 4 and iPod Touch 4G, as well as iPad 1 and iPad 2. Angry Birds Lite features hours of gameplay, challenging physics-based castle demolition, and lots of replay value. Each of the 12 levels requires logic, skill, and brute force to crush the enemy. [Download Link]



Angry Birds Free, compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad running iOS 4.0 or later.

Angry Birds Free features challenging physics-based demolition gameplay and lots of replay value. The 15 levels, set in 5 mini episodes, have been created specifically for this version. Other features include Game Center support, with leaderboards and achievements in the UI. [Download Link]



Angry Birds Rio Free, compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad running iOS 4.0 or later.

Angry Birds Rio will pair the physics-based gameplay of the original game with unique twists based on the film, Rio. The game initially features 9 exciting levels in 3 episodes with new achievements. Additional episode updates are expected throughout 2011. [Download Link]



Angry Birds Seasons Free, compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad running iOS 4.0 or later.

This version of Angry Birds is released in time of every new season. There are 15 seasonal levels in 5 seasonal themes, also with Game Center support. [Download Link]



Angry Birds HD Free, compatible only with iPad 1 or iPad 2 running iOS 3.2 or later.

Angry Birds HD Free features challenging physics-based demolition gameplay and lots of replay value. The 15 levels, set in 5 mini episodes, have been created specifically for Angry Birds HD Free. Like the free version of the original Angry Birds, Angry Birds HD Free features also include Game Center support, with leaderboards and achievements in the UI. [Download Link]



Angry Birds Rio HD Free, compatible only with iPad 1 or iPad 2 running iOS 3.2 or later.

Angry Birds Rio HD Free is similar to the Angry Birds Rio that also works in iPhone and iPod Touch, just that this version was designed and optimized for iPad devices. It also features 9 levels in 3 episodes with episodic updates throughout 2011. [Download Link]



Angry Birds Seasons HD Free, compatible only with iPad 1 or iPad 2 running iOS 3.2 or later.

This version is also similar to Angry Birds Seasons Free for iPhone and iPod Touch, just that the HD version has been optimized for iPad devices. [Download Link]

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Got Talent in Visual Arts? Join Nokia Ovi Theme-Making Contest to Win Php 25K and New Nokia C7

Any techie yet talented visual artists here? If you think you can hardly showcase all your drawing flairs on the 3rd season of Pilipinas Got Talent, perhaps you would be interested of joining Nokia’s theme-making contest instead.

Dubbed as “Ovi Theme-spirations 5”, the fifth installment, hence the name, of Nokia Ovi Theme-spirations online theme-making contest has already set in to accept entries until July 31st, 2011. And this time’s competition is centered around the theme “My School Pride”, which basically conceptualize, uhmm… well, your school pride! Up for grabs include Php 25,000 cash plus a brand-new Nokia C7, only if you make it up to the grand finals. Ten finalists will be selected until August 1, 2011 – in which all will automatically win Php 10,000 each. Three grand prize winners will be announced on October 17, 2011 and each will receive Php 15,000 cash and Nokia C7! Just in case you don't know yet what the Nokia C7 can do, well, with Symbian^3 OS under its hood - it can actually drive a BMW car at a distance.



As I’ve said, deadline for submission of entries is set on July 31st, so you’ve got only 10 days left. To learn more about the full mechanics, click here.



For first timers, the Nokia Ovi Theme-spiration contest has been crafted in an effort to exhibit artistic works of the “Pinoys” which can be used as wallpaper or phone theme for Nokia handsets. Chosen theme entries in the contest will be converted to Nokia theme files and will be made available for free download in Ovi Store.



You can check out press release after the break.



Click to Read Press Release

Let your Alma Mater shine in Nokia’s ‘Ovi Theme-spirations 5’



Wear your school color loud and proud by coming up with creative themes that show your school pride in the fifth installment of the highly successful Nokia Ovi Theme-spirations online theme-making contest.



Students get a chance to represent their respective schools and create works of art that can be used as wallpaper or phone theme for Nokia Symbian S40 or S60 phones. Your creativity can win you P25,000 plus a brand-new Nokia C7.



The contest is open to participants 15 years old and above. All you have to do send original photos or artwork that centers around the theme “School Pride.” Get inspiration from your school’s official colors, mascot or historical landmarks to bring in that unique quality to your designs. Your creation must include background images and color schemes for menus and highlights.



Your entry’s background image file format should be in jpeg, gif, or bmp file format and should have a maximum size of 500kb. For the color scheme, you should specify in your email the specific colors for menu and text when they are in active and inactive mode. Email your entries together with your full name, email address, home address, mobile number and birth date to themespirations@ovi.com. Deadline of submission is on July 31, 2011.



A total of ten (10) finalists will be chosen. Five (5) finalists will be picked every selection date, which is scheduled on July 18 and August 1, respectively. All participants whose entries are selected will automatically win P10,000 each.



Chosen theme entries will be converted to Nokia theme files and will be made available in Ovi Store for free download. Downloads from September 1, 2011 until October 15, 2011 will be valid for the final tally to determine the three grand prize winners.



The three grand Prize winners will be announced on October 17, 2011 through the Nokia website. In case of ties, the prizes will be awarded to the entry that was submitted to themespirations@ovi.com first. Each of the three winners will receive P15,000 and a Nokia C7!



The entries will be judged based on originality, creativity and number of downloads.



Let this be your chance to show your school spirit and put it there on every Nokia phone by joining Ovi Theme-spirations 5. For more information, visit http://www.nokia.com.ph/ovithemes.



About Nokia



At Nokia, we are committed to connecting people. We combine advanced technology with personalized services that enable people to stay close to what matters to them. Every day, more than 1.3 billion people connect to one another with a Nokia device – from mobile phones to advanced smartphones and high-performance mobile computers. Today, Nokia is integrating its devices with innovative services through Ovi (www.ovi.com), including music, maps, apps, email and more. Nokia's NAVTEQ is a leader in comprehensive digital mapping and navigation services, while Nokia Siemens Networks provides equipment, services and solutions for communications networks globally.

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