Tech Reviews |

Archive for Tech Reviews

OpenTube | February 20, 2013

Five Smart Watches in the Market before you see the iWatch

Apple has an history of transforming things, be it music or a computing device. Now the company has reportedly attempting to redefine watches into a wearable smart device called iWatch that runs iOS. While there are a few smart watches available, we have to wait and see what iWatch is capable of. Having witnessed how iPad transformed the tablet world we are sure to see some interesting changes into Smart Watches. Last year analyst Forrester issued a report describing wearable computing as “the new platform war”. Here in this post we see few Smart Watches that have already started surfacing into the market. These devices provide features like social media integration, messaging, GPS Location etc.

1. Sony Smartwatch

Its just 0.03 inch think, dust resistant and splash resistant with a super smooth touch screen that lets you read all your latest text messages, emails or Facebook® and TwitterTM updates right from your smartphone on SmartWatch. You can find SmartWatch compatible apps on Google PlayTM and personalize your SmartWatch with the applications you want. Also it lets you connect your smartphone to your SmartWatch and then access all your music on your phone. Play, skip, fast forward.

You can buy it here

2. Motorola MOTOACTV

You may not call it a Smart Watch as such but its capable of precisely track your running and cycling outside via GPS and in the gym. It lets you wireless upload your workout data to the Free MOTOACTV Training Portal. Its smart enough to learn what song motivate you. MOTOACTV is sweatproof, rain resistant, scratch resistant with intuitive controls and its touchscreen display adjusts to sunlight.

You can buy it here.

3. WIMM One Wearable Android Device

WIMM One Wearable Android Device has a Pre-installed Android-based Micro Apps and access to dedicated app store. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, Accelerometer, Magnetometer, 2GB user storage. It has a capacitive touchscreen, battery life to 30 hours and a black wrist strap.

You can buy it here

4. Pebble E-Paper Watch for iPhone and Android

Pebble connects by Bluetooth to your iPhone or Android device and it is as easy as downloading the Pebble app onto your phone. All software updates are wirelessly transmitted to your Pebble. Its compatible with iPhone 3GS, 4, 4S, 5 or any iPod Touch with iOS 5 or iOS 6. It also supports Android devices running OS 2.3 and up. It works great with Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

You can buy it here

5. Android 2.2 Smartphone Watch

It’s a Smart phone watch with Android 2.2 OS with WIFI, GPS, G-sensor, Camera: 3.0-5.0M, 2.0 inchs with multi-points touch screen and loads of other features including MP3/MP4/Record function.

You can buy it here.

Any guesses on what iWatch would be capable of?

Category: Gadgets, Tech Reviews | Tags: iWatch, SmartWatch, Wearable Tech

OpenTube | December 11, 2012

No comments

Eight Mobile Internet Services that have created an Asset-Light generation

Mary Meeker in her 2012 Internet Trends Report has described how the mobile internet world has brought a major change in what is now called the Asset-Light generation. An asset heavy lifestyle consumes a lot of space time and money. The mobile internet has brought in a change to lifestyle by freeing space, time and money and provide a asset light lifestyle. Times have changes to allow consumers to access services via technology rather than focus on possession of physical asset. Here in this post we cover 10 such services that have brought in a asset light lifestyle leaving behind the heavy physical asset and enjoy a much advanced service.

1. iTunes , Pandora, Spotify, Last.fm, Grooveshark creates ab asset light generation for Music

Gone are the days when we used to buy Tapes, CDs and Records and stock it in the shelf, have a dedicated player to play the favorite music. Services like iTunes, Pandora, Spotify etc have created a asset light generation for music. Pay for access and it lets you instant on-demand of streaming on internet enabled devices. This let you to discover new music through friends and experts.

2. YouTube, Netflix, Dailymotion, Vimeo etc creates an asset light generation for videos

Eye Sore Cinema Video Store Day

Not too long ago we used to purchase those DVD and BluRay discs of our favorite movies and stack in on a rack. or you would walk into a video rental place where DVDs are stacked for renting it out for customers. The services like YouTume, Netflix etc have changes the way people used to rent videos. They provide on-demand instant access anywhere via a internet enabled device. who pays for the videos? They are paid by advertisers and subscribers, thus by creating access to videos, asset free in space, time and money

3. Airbnb, CouchSurfing, Onefinestay has created an asset light generation for housing

There used to be and still are, dedicated hotel buildings providing housing/ accommodation. The rooms look uniform running with 60%-80% utilization. With services like Airbnb, CouchSurfing etc, one can turn any privately owned apartment or house into a unique looking adventurous hotel experience. With these services, the way people look at hotels have changed.

4. Zipcar, Uber, Hailo have brought an asset light generation for getting around/riding

One car per person leads to inefficient use of resources leading to traffic congestion and pollution. Services like Zipcar, Uber etc provideon-demand Ride-sharing via app with location awareness and reviews on the service. This has made getting around asset light.

5. Zaarly, TaskRabbit provide an asset light generation for services

Do-it-yourself used to be a trend but remember it takes a lot of time for example mowing your lawn. Now services like Zaarly and TaskRabbit provide quick services like laundry, groceries shopping etc done via a smart phone.

6. Chegg, Amazon Textbook Rental provide an asset light generation for textbooks

As a student we used to buy loads of expensive textbooks that are rarely used after course completion. Now services like Chegg, Amazon textbook rental etc provide the same textbooks during semester, 3x cheaper than buying. You only pay for usage rights during the semester and don’t need to fill your bookshelves with textbooks that are unused after the course completion.

7. Square, Paypal, Google Wallet etc create an asset light generation for wallets

Now the wallets have become light as smart phone becomes your new wallet with payment capability and also carry your loyalty cards, boarding passes and etickets. Goan are the days where you carry your wallet or a pouch handing around your waist, loaded with cash, coins credit cards and loyalty cards. Services like Square, Paypal, Google wallet etc have definitively created a asset light generation for wallets.

8. OnForce, Freelancer, oDesk etc have created an asset light generation for employment

Remember the days were our elders used to work on fulltime for a fixed cost. Now with the concept of workforce as a service, asset light services like Freelancer, OnForce etc provide on-demand, global, 24/7 service at a variable cost. Employer can hire online for a fraction of cost for variable time.

Category: Mobile, News, Tech Reviews |

OpenTube | June 14, 2012

No comments

Beyond Siri: Top Voice Assisted Apps for Android & iPhone

Since 1995 we have seen the voice assistance taking new levels as the technology grew along starting from text-to-speech to Natural language understanding. During 1995 what started as a virtual telephone assistant using the text to speech technology enhanced to the virtual concierge using the speech recognition technology during 2000-2010. Year 2011 is when we saw the virtual search assistant using the speech recognition technology, Google introduced voice search. The coming years, 2012 to 2015 is going to be the new era of your lifestyle buddy, a new UI that understands natural language. With Apple’s successful launch of its Siri technology in 2011, voice-activated mobile virtual assistants (VAs) have crossed the chasm into mass-market deployments. With the help if Apple’s Siri Technology success in 2011, voice activated mobile virtual assistances have enabled users to complete their tasks like search, dialing or texting via voice commands.

Beyond Siri, here are top 10 virtual assistance ( voice assistant) apps in terms of downloads since their launch.

1. Voice Search ( Android ) by Google

Downloads: 109 million & Revenues: 0

2. Vlingo Virtual Assistant ( Android ) and Voice App (iPhone) by Vilingo Corporation

Download 8.2 million & Revenues: 0

3. Iris (Android) by Dexera

Downloads: 4.4 million & Revenues: 0

4. Skyvi (Android) by Blue Tomado

Downloads: 1.9 million & Revenues: 0

5. Assistant (Android) & Skeaptoit Assistant (iPhone) by Speaktoit

Downloads: 1.7 million & Revenues: 57 thousand USD

6. AIVC – Free & Paid (Android) by YourApp24

Downloads: 1.4 million & Revenues: 57 thousand USD

7. Car Home ( Android ) by Google Inc

Downloads: 1.2 million & Revenues: 0

8. Dragon (iOS) Search by Nuance Communications

Downloads: 1.1 million & Revenues: 0

9. Jeannie ( Android ) and Voice Action ( iOS ) by Pannous

Downloads: 1.1 million & Revenues: 665 thousand USD

10. Everfriends ( Android ) by i-Free Innovations

Downloads: 0.7 million and Revenue: 0

source: http://www.visionmobile.com/blog/2012/06/infographic-beyond-siri-the-next-frontier-in-user-interfaces/

Category: Dev & Productivity Resources, Mobile, Tech Reviews |

OpenTube | April 15, 2012

No comments

10 Free Software Services to Store and Manage your Passwords

Today you need to remember so many passwords that your memory would get filled trying to remember a password for the Windows network logon, password for e-mail account, your website’s FTP password, online passwords (like website member account) and so on. The list goes endless. Also, you should use different passwords for each account because of obvious reasons- one password everywhere will give easy access to hackers to all your account effortlessly. To make your life easy, here are 10 free software services via which you can manage your passwords with easy. You may have to remember just one master password to your password manager and leave the rest to the software to manage.

1. Clipperz

Clipperz is a secure and simple password manager that provides an effective single sign-on solution. It’s a digital vault for your password data that you can use to store secret instead of storing them on the PC or paper.

Clipperz provides security by encrypting locally by the browser before uploading to Clipperz. Its free and completely anonymous. Create your account with a free signup here.

2. LastPass

LastPass is a password manager that makes web browsing easier and more secure. With LastPass, all you need to do is just remember one master password. Then on, you can easily logon to websites seamlessly with single click on the mouse button. It provides synchronization of password across browsers and accessible across all devices.

There are loads of features in the free edition here.

3. KeePass

KeePass is a free open source password manager, which helps you to manage your passwords in a secure way. You can put all your passwords in one database, which is locked with one master key or a key file. So you only have to remember one single master password or select the key file to unlock the whole database. The databases are encrypted using the best and most secure encryption algorithms currently known (AES and Twofish). For more information, check here.

4. RoboForm

RoboForm is a proprietary software password management program that syncs passwords between multiple computers. It offers a web form filler that automates password entering and form filling on Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, and Safari, as well offering manager apps on mobile platforms like iOS, Android, Blackberry, Palm, and Symbian. The free version of Roboform limits you to saving 10 passwords. The pro version allows for unlimited passwords. You can try the free version here.

5. KeePassX

KeePassX is an application for people with extremely high demands on secure personal data management. It has a light interface, is cross platform and published under the terms of the GNU General Public License.

KeePassX saves many different information e.g. user names, passwords, urls, attachments and comments in one single database. For a better management user-defined titles and icons can be specified for each single entry. Furthermore the entries are sorted in groups, which are customizable as well. The integrated search function allows to search in a single group or the complete database. You can download the software here.

6. Universal Password Manager

Universal Password Manager allows you to store all your passwords in one highly secure encrypted database. Its strengths are simplicity, portability and security (uses 128bit AES encryption). UPM is available on Android, Windows, OS X & Linux.

You can download the software here.

7. Yadabyte Password

Yadabyte Passwords is very secure AES 256 encryption that works from any USB Key, floppy, hard drive with a simple minimal interface with “Nokia” browsing. Unencrypted data is never stored anywhere. For more information, check here.

8. OpenSimSim

With OpenSimSim, all you need to do is to just remember only one master password. OpenSimSim will generate strong passwords for each one of your accounts. No more using the same password everywhere or using bulky password managers. Your passwords are just a few quick key-strokes away. For more information, click here.

9. Mitto

Mitto is a safe and secure online password manager. The free service lets you add the passwords to all of your favorite sites in one place, then logs you in to each one of them by simply clicking a button. No need to remember or retype your passwords anymore! You can access your passwords securely from any computer, organize them with tags, securely share them with trusted friends, and more… It’s easy, secure, and it’s just what you need. Sign up for free here.

10. Password Safe

Password Safe is a password database utility. Password Safe protects passwords with the Twofish encryption algorithm, a fast, free alternative to DES. The programs security has been thoroughly verified by Counterpane Labs under the supervision of Bruce Schneier, author of Applied Cryptography and creator of the Twofish algorithm. For more information, check here.

Category: Dev & Productivity Resources, Open Source, Tech Reviews | Tags: Password Manager, Security

OpenTube | March 30, 2012

One comment

15 Popular iPhone Apps from Retailers for their Loyal Customers

As the mobile users and smart phone apps keep growing, for every retailer there is a need to have a smart phone app for Loyal customers that enhances the shopping experience inside and outside the store. Also, every retailer who has a Loyalty program or Reward program must have loyalty apps that lets customer receive m-coupons, checkout offers, check reward points, view and redeem gift certificates etc using their mobile device. Here in this post we provide a list of apps that are targeted for Loyal customers.

1.Best Buy Reward Zone

Its a loyalty app for Best Buy store that lets you to access points, reward certificates, purchase history and exclusive Reward Zone offers all from your mobile device. It lets you even redeem reward certificates from your mobile device. Using the app, you can find out how many points you have, what’s in-stock at your local Best Buy store, and read customer product reviews.

iPhone Screenshot 1

check out the app here

2. Starbucks

For Loyal customers of Starbucks, there is a Starbucks app that lets the customer to Pay with their iPhone/iPod Touch, check Starbucks Card balance, reload card, Track Stars in the My Starbucks Rewards program, Send an eGift to a friend via email or Facebook wall post and lots of other features that come in handy.

iPhone Screenshot 3

Check out the app here.

3. Target

With the Target App for iPhone you can stay organized with TargetLists, Save money with Daily Deals. Check prices with the Barcode Scanner, use the magic gift card right from your phone, find a store and lots more.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

4. Walgreens

Walgreens brings you the official iPhone app, featuring Refill by Scan. Simply order your prescription refills by scanning the barcode on your pill bottle. You can also receive refill reminders by utilizing Apple Push Notification Service (APNS). And with our new Pill Reminder, you can set-up alerts so you’ll never forget when to take your prescriptions. Other great features like Quick Prints, allows you to select pictures from your iPhone and pick up the prints in about an hour. Find the store nearest you using GPS. Discover in-store savings in your local mobile Weekly Ad or view exclusive mobile coupons. Add items to your mobile shopping list and share them. Scan barcodes and QR codes from our paper Weekly Ad to learn more about products and promotions and add items to your shopping list.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

5. Wallmart

The Walmart app for iPhone helps you find quality products at unbeatable prices at home, in Wallmart stores or on the go. With the Smart Shopping List, it’s now even easier to save money, stay on budget and build your shopping list. Add items in seconds using the built-in barcode scanner, voice entry, favorites or suggestions. It also has manufacturer coupons right in the app.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here

6. Best Buy

The Best Buy app provides a fresh new way to shop for the latest and greatest technology. Browse the full Best Buy product catalog, compare product specs, and create your technology wish list. It lets you view your past purchases, track your points and view the latest offers using Reward Zone.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

7. The Home Depot

The Home Depot iPhone app enhances your shopping experience inside and outside the store. With the app you can research and purchase over 300,000 home improvement products, check store inventory and aisle location, scan QR and UPC codes, buy and send e-gift cards, locate stores & in-store maps and many more.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

8. Lowe’s

he handy Lowe’s app allows you to shop online, review ratings on everything from appliances to hardware, locate the closest store and access inspiring videos and products. Get driving directions to your closest stores via GPS, or find a Lowe’s on the go by entering your city and state into the store locator. Also has the ability to check your gift card balance.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

9. CVS Pharmacy

The official CVS/pharmacy iPhone App, helps you find the nearest CVS locations – store hours. Order prescriptions by Scanning your refills or via Rapid Refill (no sign in) or via your prescription history. Transfer prescriptions, access your CVS.com account. View ExtraCare information – send offers to card, view Weekly Ads, sign up for offers, deals and more. You can schedule a flu shot – check MinuteClinic locations, services and accepted insurance plans.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

10. JCPenney Weekly Deals

JCPenny Weekly Deals app provides instant access to great things happening at jcpenney, like fair and square pricing with month-long values and best prices. It lets you flip through the new monthly book and explore the digital calendar all designed to revolve around your life. Also you can find a store near you, shop the full online selection, access jcp rewards, link to your jcp credit card and more!

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

11. Fab.com

Fab is the #1 rated shopping app for design sales and inspirations. There are more than 2 million people turn to Fab for sales of up to 70% off retail on home decor, art, jewelry, fashion, and more – at all price points. The Fab app you can access Daily design inspirations & sales, never miss a sale while you’re on the go, check upcoming sales, browse by color, price, and category, view and zoom in on images, share your favorite designs on Facebook, Twitter, email, and SMS — and earn credits!

iPhone Screenshot 4

Check out the app here.

12. Sears2go

With Sears2go, you can access to all of the items and categories on sears.com. Shop, find and buy right in the app, then pick it up at the store or have it sent to your door.* Search by keyword or category to find what you need fast. You can also see sales and deals from the Weekly Ad, view detailed item descriptions and read individual product reviews and customer rating. If you are a rewards member you can access your account and check your point balance.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

13. Kroger Co

The Kroger Co. mobile application allows you to view your rewards points and savings.In order to use The Kroger Co. mobile app, you must first have an online account on one of the banner websites (i.e. Kroger.com) as well as a Shopper’s Card number associated with your account profile.

iPhone Screenshot 2

Check out the app here.

14. Gap

Shop Gap and other Gap Inc stores with Gap easy to use app. Find, save, share and buy products when and where it is convenient for you. With the app you browse the latest fashions across all our categories with detailed product descriptions and access to size and color availability. Scan product barcodes in store to find alternate sizes and colors, get product information and more.

iPhone Screenshot 1

Check out the app here.

15. Kohl’s

Tap into even more shopping convenience with the completely redesigned Kohl’s iPhone app. With new, easy-to-use features right at your fingertips, you can find what you want no matter where you are. Cool features are Browse pages of Kohl’s local deals or shop Kohls.com by department and brand, Scan Kohl’s product barcodes or QR codes to quickly access special savings, offers and exclusive information, Use your GPS Locator or ZIP code to find the nearest Kohl’s stores, see hours of operation and get directions and many more.

iPhone Screenshot 1