Opera 9.5 almost here

Technically, it's here in some devices already. Those using the HTC Touch Diamond and Samsung Omnia PDA-phones would have noticed that the default browser is a much better one compared with Internet Explorer for Windows Mobile. That's because Opera worked with those two companies to put the browser in their devices first. But soon, the Norwegian software company will be releasing the beta for everyone else.

According to the company's official blog, "releasing a version that works on a large variety of phones is more complex than making it work on one specific phone", which is why there is a delay even though some phones already come with it. So Windows Mobile users rejoice. It's a short wait and, for now, you can still use Opera 8.65 which is already miles ahead of Internet Explorer.

Via WMExperts

Palm still waiting for new products to end losses

Palm is still struggling as it awaits the arrival of new Treos and a new operating system.

The company Thursday reported a net loss of US$43.4 million for its fourth fiscal quarter, or 40 US cents a share, compared with net income of US$15.7 million last year. That loss is not as bad as it looks because of restructuring charges and the writeoff of some bad debts, but even factoring all those charges out Palm still lost US$23.9 million, or 22 US cents a share. Analysts polled by Thomson One were hoping for 18 US cents.

Palm's main problem, which also happens to be its biggest strength, is the Centro. Sales of the US$99 smart phone have taken off, allowing Palm during the quarter to sell the highest number of smart phones directly to customers--968,000 units--in its history. Around 70 percent of Centro buyers are first-time smart phone owners, said CEO Ed Colligan on a conference call following Palm's results.
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Dual-display e-reader opens new chapter

In what seems like an eternity ago, Crave posted an item about a dual-LCD concept that was designed as a digital newspaper of sorts, folding at the center like a broadsheet. Now, finally, some universities are reportedly working on a prototype based on similar principles for e-books.

Researchers from Berkeley and Maryland are developing a dual-screen reader with digital pages that can be turned by way of a built-in trackball, according to Engadget. And for flexibility the two displays can be separated and viewed horizontally if needed.

There have been other double-display portable computers on the market, though none made specifically made for book reading, and they have been prohibitively expensive. As prices for Amazon's Kindle and other conventional e-book readers continue to drop, it may be cheaper to just get two of them instead.

Via CNET Crave

Toshiba teams up with Spb

It's all about the interface with Windows Mobile devices these days, isn't it? So as not to lag behind, Toshiba has teamed up with developer Spb Software House to provide a custom Mobile Shell-based Toshiba Touch Interface. Spb has a decent following among Windows Mobile users and this collaboration should work to make the Portege G810 more user-friendly.

Considering how much HTC has done with TouchFLO and companies like MWg and E-Ten also throwing in software to hide the original WM interface, it's about time this Japanese company got in the game as well.

It's a pity we can't buy the Portege series of handhelds officially here in Asia. But if you really want one, import it from Europe where Toshiba markets them.

Via WMExperts

Motorola adds GPS and dual SIM slots to its MING

It's official. After months of speculation, Motorola has finally confirmed two new additions to its MING handset lineup, the A1600 (left) and A1800 (right). Like their predecessor, the A1200, the new smart phones will run on Linux OS and come with a 2.4-inch QVGA touchscreen, Bluetooth, microSD expansion slot and FM radio.

What's new is the inclusion of the integrated GPS receiver (and image geotagging), as well as the upgraded 3-megapixel camera. Additionally, the A1800 comes with two SIM card slots that allow connection to both GSM and CDMA networks at the same time. Sadly, the new MINGs do not feature Wi-Fi or 3G connectivity, as was rumored earlier.

While both the A1600 and A1800 are targeted at the Chinese market, the former will also be launched in Asia in Q3/Q4 this year. No pricing details have been released so far.

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