Zenfone 2 sale and anticipated Zenfone 3

Zenfone 2

Lately, there have been post in Facebook on Zenfone 2 discounted price or sale.  But when I check in the mall, there is hardly any indication that Zenfone 2 is on sale.  No posters, or even price tag that it is on sale for a discounted price.

I think, Asus is trying to sell off old models, in preparation for the newer Zenfone 3.  But, the Zenfone 2 model, they are try to have the sale on is the 32GB model, which I think isn't being sold in the mall I checked.  Even the lesser models of Zenfone are not on sale.  But on the Asus website, it is on sale. So the sale is probably only available on their website and online.

On latest news, Asus will unveil, there new phones this Aug 14, 2016.  According to their facebook posts, they will unveil their new products of phones and laptops.  So we will see what their new phones will offer this 2016.  Will it be better than the Samsung phones?   We shall see.

Asus Zenfone 2: First Look and first impressions

The Zenfone 2 is the much anticipated phone in the Philippine market.  It has high ram (4GB), large screen, gorilla glass, LTE, Dual SIM, memory expansion slot up to 32 GB and 2 tone flash at a lower price than other highend phones.  Right after the release date for the Philippines, I checked in the cellular phone stores and I came across people who are also asking for the Zenfone 2 if it is already available for purchase.

Last I checked, in most stores, the only available variant of the phone is the 16GB memory capacity with 2 GB RAM.  Some stores carry the 32GB memory capacity with 4 GB but ask for straight cash payment.  Some stores carry a few stocks but only have red color variant.

Most people are looking for the 64GB memory variant, which is understandable, since the only difference it has with the 32GB variant is Php1,000,  also Dual SIM.

On to the first look and impression.  After using it for a couple of days.  I have to honestly say I am a bit disappointed with the phone.  I have been using Samsung phones for a long time and this phone with it's great specs on paper have somewhat disappointed me,

I was looking forward to a dual sim LTE, or even a 3G for the 2nd SIM card.  No, that is not the case with this phone, you only get 2G on the 2nd SIM slot, might as well not use it, if you cannot switch data connection between SIMS.  In the Philippines there are areas, where a certain carrier has stronger signal, changing data service network would have been a nice feature, which is possible in a samsung phone to my surprise.

I'm a bit disappointed on how it heats up at times and gets battery drain for some reason the google playstore drains it up.  It looks fragile, that if I drop it, the screen will crack.

Now on with the pros.  It is snappy, easy to start, has a good screen size and looks good.

I will write a more in depth review after a few weeks.  But my first impression is it's not that great, but compared to other high specs phone this is one of the cheaper versions.  I would recommend you also check Meizu M1 or M2 as a comparison to Asus Zenfone 2, if you are in the market to buying a new phone.

Until next time.

CDR-King SATA HDD Docking Station Combo (CW-D2) Review

It has been a couple of years, since I posted a "first look" blog on this device from CD-R king.  And I don't know if anyone will still be interested since this probably isn't being sold by CD-R king anymore.  But I did mention to a comment I will place a review about the device, so here it is.

The device works just like any external drive may it be DVD or hard drive.  The only difference it that this single device allows you to use hard disks that are for laptop and desktop.  Provided it does not exceed 500 GB.  It could be the hardware's chip limitation, that more than 500 GB, it won't read.  I have not tried it yet on a 1 TB.

Pros

• You can use any sata drive may it be desktop or laptop
• Easy swap and usage, don't swap while it's being read
• Built Sturdy, still functioning after more than a year
• you have card readers as a bonus
• one press button to back-up your drive (untested)

Cons

• USB connection is the weak point
• more partition, the more slow it is to detect all drives by windows
• not portable, heavy base

All in all, this device delivers what is advertised.  A recommended buy, if you can still buy one.  But may not be available in CD-R King anymore.  They have a lot of hard drive cases now, if you want to convert your used drives as external hard drives.

My previous blog on this device: http://philgadgames.blogspot.com/2012/06/cdr-king-sata-hdd-docking-station-combo.html

Samsung Galaxy Note 8 wifi version Review

This is my review on the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, wifi version.  It's a little bit dated, but this is a personal look and review after more than a couple of months usage.

Note that I also own and have reviewed the iPad Mini (http://philgadgames.blogspot.com/2013/05/ipad-mini-wifi-version-review-and.html).  So, I may at times mention the iPad mini on my review.

The pros and cons on the Samsung Galaxy Note 8:

Pros

• it has a stylus pen.
• has a large 8 inch screen
• cost less than the iPad Mini
• can expand the memory with SD memory slot
• has apps exclusive to galaxy note line

Cons

• Shorter Battery life (Compared to iPad Mini) it drains so fast
• Non-removable battery
• screen is not gorilla glass, could be scratch easily if not protected by a case
• default screen color tone is very vivid, can be changed to soft color in settings
• can accidentally touch the return and menu button when in landscape mode

After using the Galaxy Note 8 for more than a month, it's something that I can use next to my iPad Mini.  People say Apple product users are just nuts spending that much on the same device, but I say to them, don't judge unless you have used an Apple product yourself.  You get what you pay for in Apple products, that's all I have to say, and move along to the Galaxy Note 8 review.

Galaxy Note 8 is a nice android tablet, with something special attached (a stylus pen).  Although, I seldom use the stylus pen, when I use my Note 8.  I only use it when I want to draw something, this is where Note 8 differs with other tablets.  The stylus is really nice to write on the tablet since it has pressure sensitivity, making it write like a brush and a pencil.  And this stylus was developed with Wacom (known for their stylus and tablet products).  Maybe also one of the reason why it is more expensive.

Having the stylus feature out of the way, we now focus on the tablet itself.  The Note 8 tablet was the first Samsung try on the 8 inch arena, following the release of iPad Mini, since before Samsung only have the 7 inch tablets.  And it seems, to me, the 8 inch is just the right size and weight for a tablet. 

Screen is sharper and more vibrant than the iPad mini.  Being an android device it give the user an option to place widgets and customize initial content when you open the tablet.

The tablet has both a front 1.3 megapixel camera and back facing 8 megapixel camera. One of the reasons why this device is more expensive than most available android tablets out there, but you get what you pay for.   Other tablets are cheaper, but only have one camera that is crappy or none at all, like the Polaroid tablets.  I often scratch my head when I look at the price tags of these Polaroid tablets based on their outdated specs.

To be honest, I only own 2 tablets, one is the iPad mini and this Samsung Galaxy Note 8.  I have handled a cheaper android tablet, and trust me, usually if you buy a cheap tablet, don't expect a premium device.

Galaxy Note 8, currently priced at the range of Php14,500 - Php16,000 a bit cheaper than the iPad mini.

Philips SHE1360 wired earphones/ear-buds: Review

This is the only earphones/ear-buds that I would buy for its cheap price and good build/quality in the Philippines.  For around P200 (around $4.50 US), you get to listen to your music and sounds from your gadget without disturbing the people around you.  

Please note, this packaging is a bit old, latest packaging of this earphone is much smaller, but still in the price range of P200-P220 ($5 US).

There are a lot of cheap earphones being sold with prices around P100-P180 ($3.50 US), but they tend to be poorly made for the price and won't last as long as this earphone.  The build of this earphones is pretty good.  The rubber cable could handle a bit of tugging and will not get loose, unlike the other cheap brands that come off easily.  Cable length is adequate for everyday use, on devices that are on the go.

I have bought china made earphones in Canada, and when I accidentally tug them and then right away they are unusable and dangerous to use due to exposed wires, I had to exchange them for new ones.  The replacements also had the same lifespan and was not functioning after a few uses, but this Philips earphones still functions after all this years.

Pros and Cons for this earphone:

Pros

• Solid build
• Cable does not get tangled
• Cheap price for the quality you will get
• Delivers the sound you need for the low price

Cons

• Sound is standard, not stunning quality (better than most on this price range)
• Cable get hardened after years of use

I have three (3) of this earphones currently.  The first one was given to me as a gift.  It still functions and the cable is a bit hardened.  The second one, I bought as a spare in case the first one loses its sound.  But until now the first one still functions.

The third one I bought is for the purpose of these review.  And to test, if this earphone is still the same quality after 5 years.  It seems, it is still the same.

A little note.  Please test these earphones when you purchase at the store.  Don't buy if they say this earphone has no warranty when you purchase.  I bought my 3rd one from SM appliance, and it was a factory defective unit.  It sounded like tin cans and no vocals.  I had them replaced right away, and also a lesson for me not to buy without testing.  Even though my first 2 units worked without problems, the current batches may have factory defect sold in stores.  I should have doubts when the packaging was a little bit crooked and offset.

I highly recommend this earphone for the price.  If your intention is an earphone for the daily commute, this is the earphone for you.  Especially when you only intend to use it for radio and mp3s.

Behringer HPM1000 Multi-Purpose Headphone: Update

The Behringer HPM1000 Multi-Purpose Headphone update.

Specs:

Type	Circumaural Closed Back Stereo Headphones
Frequency Range	20 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance	32 Ohms
Sensitivity	105 dB @ 1 kHz
Maximum Input Power	100 mW
Connectors	1/4" Stereo Phone Plug
Cable Length	6.6' (2.0 m)
Weight	13.6 oz (385.5 g)

Here is an update on my usage of the Behringer HPM1000 Multi-Purpose Headphone.  Sadly, it only lasted a couple of years with uncaring use on my part.

After a couple of years of rugged use.  The headphone pads on the ears started to peel and expose the soft dark synthetic fabric material.  It finally had it's last run on my constant tugging and dropping.  After more than 2 years of use every night.  It finally lost it's sound and also does not function as it should on my laptop.

It's a good headphone for the price and acceptable usage life. I'm currently using my Superlux HD 668B as an alternative headphone at home.  See my first look here: http://philgadgames.blogspot.com/2012/12/superlux-hd-668b-first-look.html.  But primarily, I am currently just using my Philips Ear buds, to avoid destroying another headphone.

I'll write a review soon on my cheapest ear buds that is available in the Philippines and it is a tough enough to last more than 5 years.
 

Ritek LED bulb RKB-7W-60000K - Review and First Look

This is a first look and mini review of Ritek LED bulb RKB-7W-60000K.  This LED bulb brand is available in CD-R King and currently sold with a promo price of P188 (about $4.27 US) and is the one that is very bright in the 7watt line on their display window.

I already bought about 3 units, and so far they work as advertised.  The brightness is a bit lower than a 14 watt CFL (compact florescent lamp), but is sufficient enough as a light source.  If you need a brighter light I would suggest a higher watt LED, or just go with a CFL.  I noticed that a higher LED watt does only a little increase in lumen.  Lumen is the the unit used to measure brightness from a source.

In LED packages, I see a 7 watt LED typically produces 450-500 lumen, while a 9 watt LED bulb produces only 550 lumen, highest I saw was I think 600 lumen.  Brighter CFL such as 14-15 watt, produces about 700-850 lumen.  So if you don't need your room to be bright, a 7 watt LED will do on a 45 sq. ft room.  But ideal room size for a single 7watt LED bulb should only be 33 sq. ft.

The Ritek LED bulb RKB-7W-60000K, has a silver aluminum body, that can absorb the heat produced by the LEDs.  At first I thought it was made of plastic with color of silver.  Dome is made of glass, that emits the LED light much brighter than it can previously can in older LED versions.

Pros and cons of this LED light product:

Pros

• Energy Saver (less energy for same lumen)
• Long life (3 yrs according to the package with 1 yr warranty)
• Light is immediately bright (unlike CFL that needs to warm up a bit before light is optimal)
• No Mercury content according to their package, so environmentally friendly.

Cons

• Cost more than a typical CFL (2 times more expensive than ordinary CFL)
• Light is less brighter since the direction it has more light is directly below is fixed on top.

This product is still available from the last time I checked in a CDR King branch in Cubao on April 26, 2014.  Product has a 1 year service warranty, but according to the sales personnel it will just be replaced since no one fixes LED anyway.  Just keep the receipt and box to avail of the warranty in any of the CDR King branches in the Philippines.

Product link on CDR-King website: http://www.cdrking.com/index.php?mod=products&type=view&sid=14387&main=158#.U10dQfmSzK0

LED light bulbs in the Philippines - an insight and observation

The year 2014 may be the time for LED to go main stream in the Philippines.  I have already seen almost affordable LED light bulbs in hardware stores.  Although, most LED bulbs are still expensive, there are some that are sold with an irresistible promo price.

I have already seen 7w LED light bulbs being sold for Php180.00 (around $4.00 US) as a promo price. A 5watt LED cost around Php150.00 (around $3.40 US), and a 3watt LED cost around Php120.00 (around $2.70 US).

To give you a perspective on the current average cost of an LED light bulb, the average cost of a 7watt LED light bulb is Php350.00 (around $8.00 US) with some costing twice as much (Php780.00).  But lately, the prices are going down, since no one is buying LEDs even if they save us money in the long run on the electric bill.  We (Filipinos) still prefer the Php99.00 9w CFL which last about an average of 15,000 hrs.

Because a seven hundred pesos (Php700.00) LED light bulb is just not practical, for something that will slash the electric usage in half and last twice as long.  What exactly did we save? The environment?  Sure now they say LED light bulbs have no mercury and all that environmental stuff.  But most Filipinos can't even spend much on food; let alone buy a very expensive light bulb.  For some middle class, that price is just not practical.  A CFL (compact florescent lamp) will last a year, if your average use of it is about 12 hrs a day.

The right price for an LED light bulb is around the price range of Php180-200.  About twice the amount of a promo priced CFL.  Sure LED light bulb last as much as 3yrs of constant usage.  But whichever company gives the right price for an LED light bulb, will make a profit on most quantity sold and make a name for themselves.

I don't know if an LED light bulb will last more than 3 yrs.  This will be an experiment for me, I still keep my receipt, since there is a 1 yr warranty on some LED light bulbs.  I forgot, if the very first LED light bulb (Philips brand) we bought has a 3 yr warranty.  I have to check.  So, if I use my LED light bulb at an average of 12hrs a day.  I should, be replacing my LED light bulb in about, 6-7yrs.

I'm going to write a review soon on LED light bulbs, that are on the Php120 -180 price range.  Since that is where the consumer market will be for the LED light bulbs.  I will just be reviewing the brightness and build of this light bulbs.  Since not all LED light bulbs are made the same, especially in brightness (lumen).

I still see LED light bulbs as gadgets for the modern age, and LED light bulbs are sold in some gadget stores and at times still treated as a novelty item in the Philippines.

Smart Telecom mobile internet coverage in Rockwell Powerplant Mall

A little update on the Smart mobile internet coverage in Metro Manila.  Currently, after multiple visits to the Rockwell Powerplant Mall, I noticed that the mobile internet speed of Smart Communications has improved.

My device has reached true HSPDA speed, youtube downloads was fast.  I guess, their infrastructure upgrade was already complete.  I just wish when they do the upgrades they don't charge their customers full price, when at that time slow to no mobile internet was available on certain areas.

Now, if only it is the same speed in the Araneta Center, where they have their name on the Smart Araneta Coliseum.  Speed in surrounding areas should be fast as well, since it is a public place.  Also, there is even less tall buildings in the area, which should not affect the mobile internet connection.

Mobile internet speed on the following area is also good, but slow:
UP campus - Bahay ng Alumni (Sun cellular has no mobile internet coverage there)
Riverfront - Caniogan Pasig

Brgy. San Miguel in Pasig near the Petron Station and Wellcome Supermarket has a good connection speed, but not as good in Rockwell Powerplant Mall speed.

Don't ask about Megamall coverage, since there is no mobile signal in certain areas there, so when there is no bars on the phone, chances are there is no mobile internet available in that area.

Update:
There are some places in Rockwell Powerplant mall, which have slow and unreliable internet connection.  So, don't expect to reach 300kbps on that tablet or phone of yours in all areas.

CD-R King Mobile Power Bank 5600mAh PWB-065-R(PB-201) - Review

This is my review of CD-R King's Mobile Power Bank 5600mAh PWB-065-R(PB-201).  I had it more than a couple of months now, and had charged it more than a couple of times and used it on multiple of devices.

Here is my impressions and review of the product, after using it more extensively on a number of days:

• It retains the charge and does not drain as fast without using it for a while
• High capacity device such as a tablet (iPad mini) drains it super fast and will only charge the tablet a fraction and completely drain the power bank within an hour.
• Heats up on charging with tablets, and large capacity 2400mAh battery phones
• Its indicator is helpful in determining the charge capacity of the power bank and pretty useful in cases where you need to drain and recharge it

Pros and Cons for the Mobile Power Bank 5600mAh PWB-065-R(PB-201)

Pros

• you get a led flashlight, a quick mobile charger with power level indicator, for the cheap price of Php580.00 (around $13 USD).
• it's small and easy to put on your pocket or bag.
• it can charge phones several times without recharging for a while

Cons

• there are times it heats up a bit when charging with a phone, really heats up when charging a tablet.
• not all devices are compatible with this charger (notably the Galaxy S Duos)
• it takes about 5-6 hours to fully charge.

The verdict on this device:

It's a nice portable device that does not take much space on your bag.  It can retain it's charge for more than a month without recharging.  You may have to check the charge level at times and need to recharge it in a couple of months to maintain good battery life, when you don't usually use it.

This is a good choice for a power bank, since it has a LED flashlight that can be used in cinemas or when you need a quick light in the dark.  And the LED charge level indicator is very helpful to determine if you need to recharge it already.

My verdict: This is a good buy, just don't expect it to last long.  I'm sure after a couple of years you need to change it with a new model, depending on how much you use it over time.

Last time I was in CD-R King - SM Megamall branch, this model is still available and for sale.

Determine Philippine Mobile Cellphone Carrier Provider

I got this from another website, which I forgot to copy the link.  And added some numbers that I came across with that I know is from this certain cell provider.

• Extelcom: 973, 974
• Globe Telecom: 905, 906, 915, 916, 917, 926, 927, 935, 936, 937, 996, 997
• Next Mobile (Nextel): 979
• Smart Communications: 910, 912, 918, 919, 920, 921, 928, 929
• Sun Cellular: 922, 923, 932, 933, 942, 943, 925

Why this list?

Most people in the Philippines avail of unli call or text promo, that is limited to 3 networks or just a single cellphone network provider.  That is why we often find ourselves in a predicament, on whether to call or text a person, that we are unsure on whether we will be charged or have our prepaid load deducted. 

Hope this list will help.  Leave a comment, on errors and additions.   Please share the first 3 digits of the Cellphone provider in the Philippines that isn't on this list, that you came accross.

Disclaimer

I'm not liable, if you used the number without testing first if the call or text was charged or deducted.  Use with caution and double check first.

CD-R King Mobile Power Bank 5600mAh PWB-065-R(PB-201) - First Look

My blog on mobile power bank is so popular, that I decide to post another review on a higher capacity power bank 5600mAh.  Mind you, I only select the mobile power bank that I think is built to last, and a value for money.  I also have no sponsor or gain any income from these reviews.

This is only a first look, since the device was only bought yesterday, and I could not give a complete objective review in such a short time.  The price for this model PWB-065-R(PB-201) is Php580.00 (around $13 USD).

My first impressions on this CD-R King Mobile Power bank, is that it is a bit oddly designed. Not as odd as the last lipstick shape Power Bank? I was being sarcastic, if you couldn't tell.  I was looking for the other model, PWB-063-VT(VIP-H025) same features, but without the bumps as seen in the photo above.  Since, they look the same and I wanted to have my power bank right there and then, I got this one instead, since the other model wasn't available on that store branch of CD-R King.

Okay, my impressions:

• plastic built, that may crack open when dropped high enough.
• looks a bit better built than the rest of the power bank of the same capacity, on that particular branch of the CD-R King Store.
• It's very useful that it has a led flashlight, I can use it as a flashlight and charger.
• Easy to operate
• Fully charged when I bought it, ready to use.
• Useful power level indicator.
• at times you need to press the power button for the charge to start.
• the device heats up when charging high power capacity devices

Thanks to the salesperson for teaching me how to operate the flashlight since it does not indicate on the package.  It was actually 2 quick press on the power button to use the flashlight.

It charges on most devices. Namely the following, I tested it on:

• Samsung Galaxy Grand Duos
• Samsung Galaxy S3
• Samsung Galaxy Y
• iPad Mini
• Fiio E6 Portable Headphone Amplifier

It does not charge Samsung Galaxy S Duos.  I don't know why.  I tried the older power bank I reviewed before CD-R King Mobile Power Bank PWB-049-ZG 2800mAh it charged without a problem.

So when buying the power bank, test it on the device you will primary use it for, since not all device will charge with this particular model - PWB-065-R(PB-201).

The product page on CD-R King website: http://www.cdrking.com/index.php?mod=products&type=view&sid=18199&main=167

I bought mine in CD-R King Gateway Branch ground floor facing Aurora Boulevard.  Since the one on the LRT level has none of the colors that I like. Warranty is only 3 months.

Samsung Galaxy S Duos First Look and Review

The new released Samsung Galaxy S Duos is one among other new affordable phones released by Samsung in the Philippines.  New in the sense, that there isn't much screen protector and casings available for this particular model.

Together with Galaxy S Duos are the following in the same line of android phones:

• Galaxy Win
• Galaxy Core
• Galaxy Fame
• Galaxy Star
• Galaxy Pocket Neo
• Galaxy Young

I know other models are already old, wish Samsung named them different for their new releases.  The Galaxy Young will have people confuse refering to the old with the last release.

micro SD slot accessible on the right with power button on top

After using the Galaxy S Duos for a couple of weeks, I have to say, it's a very good smart phone.  The Galaxy S model name will not be tarnished by this particular model.  The reasons why are as follows:

1. Long battery life. (Compared to the S3 with same always on 3G internet.  S Duos last longer.)
2. All the android features of a high end Galaxy S (Software App wise) is available.
3. Screen size is good.
4. Build is good, especially the feel of the plastic on the back, it feels solid.
5. Fast charge, compared to my galaxy S3. (You know what, I think S3 was over hyped)
6. Does not heat up at the back when I browse the internet and use 3G (Mobile Internet). Unlike S3, which heats up after a few minutes of web browsing or heavy gameplay.

volume rocker on the left side

What is the specs for this Smart Phone?

• HSDPA 7.2 (900/2100MHz)
• Quad-band (850/900/1800/1900MHz)
• 1GHz CPU
• 4 inches WVGA TFT LCD
• TouchWiz (Interface of Android)
• Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich)
• GPS/Geo-tagging
• 5MegaPixels on the back with flash and VGA on the front.
• micro SD expandable the slot is accessible on the right side (No need to remove battery to access it)
• Power button on the upper right and volume rocker on the left

What is the weight and feel of the phone?

This smart phone is light-weight and solid built.  You can feel it once you lift it.  iPhone users will feel it's plastic built.  But it's a good phone as far as I can tell using it for couple of weeks.

earphone jack (Stereo)

Sound

Sound is the same as most phone, there isn't much to talk about, it's the same as the rest of the phones.  My only complaint is the Samsung Phones have their speakers at the back, which muffles the sound when you place it on a desk or on a seat.

It comes with an earphone jack, and an ear buds with microphone.

Camera

Camera is the same as the rest.  Standard quality. Nothing to get wow about.  It's an affordable phone, so the quality is a bit better than the lower ends.

Overall

The phone won't disappoint you much.  If you only need to browse the internet, tethering the internet to a tablet, use as a spare phone.  Then this is the phone for you if you have the budget.  Price of the Phone is around Php8,000+.

Galaxy Y besides Galaxy S Duos

MyPhone will launch their flagship phone on July 26 in the Philippines

If the specs of the front and back cameras does not impress you, the design and material will.  MyPhone in the Philippines, is well known for Quality phones at a reasonable price.  

MyPhone will release their flagship Phone on July 26, with a promo for people to own it by 12 or 24 months credit card installments.  According to them, this phone has 2 years warranty, unlike most phones today that only have 1 yr.

MyPhone has been lagging behind in releasing better specs phone lately, but with this release, they are on the top position to topple other Philippine branded phones like Cherry Mobile and Torque.  

I myself have a cheap phone from MyPhone, and using it and looking at it, I know it's built to last, and worth every penny I paid.  Unlike, the Cherry Mobile brand which does not last long and Cherry Mobile does not care if you have a sub-quality phone, for the cheap price you paid.  I made a mistake buying Cherry Mobile, that phone has a massive crack screen now and even before could not be used for calls, since the ear piece and mic was broken.

The specs of this phone "ICEBERG" is very impressive.  And the object and name has lots of meaning, they say because it's cold or cool.  I say, icebergs usually can be seen as little on the surface, but is massive underneath.

So here are the specs they are posting on social media Facebook:

✓ 5.7 HD IPS Display, Corning Gorilla Glass 2
✓ Android 4.2 Jelly Bean
✓ 1.2GHz Quad-core processor
✓ 16GB internal storage
✓ 1GB RAM
✓ 12-megapixel autofocus main camera with LED flash(BSI)
✓ 5-megapixel front camera
✓ 1080p video recording
✓ Bluetooth / WiFi / HSPA+
✓ Light, Motion, Proximity, Magnetic Sensor
✓ OTG

Very impressive indeed.  Puts my Samsung Galaxy S3 to shame.  I would buy this, if it was bit cheaper.  But the P11,988 promo launch price for this specs is cheap enough.  Plus the credit card installment option is the clincher.  I just want to avoid the crowd, that is why I won't be at the event.  Otherwise, I would have bought one at their nearest store.  I think they don't want the launch event to be a flop, that is why there is this promo during the event.

Really not that bad, you can own an android phone with top of the line specs for only P12,000. An option to pay for it 1-2yrs installment plan.

iPad Mini 16.3-watt-hour rechargeable lithium-polymer battery recharged using CD-R King Mobile Power Bank PWB-049-ZG 2800mAh

The title is a bit long, but these are my findings on recharging an iPad mini with a CD-R King 2800mAh Power Bank.

I ran out of power and need to be somewhere else, so I recharged my iPad mini with my CD-R King Power Bank, expecting it to be recharge at least more than half, like my Galaxy S3 (63% charge from completely drained).

I guess my math was a bit off. Galaxy S3 is 1/3 the size of iPad mini, so I should be happy getting 1/3 of the charge I got from S3.  I was surprised how fast the iPad mini drained the Power Bank.  It was empty in only 1.5 hours.  My iPad mini got a charge of 33% from 5% in one and a half hour.

So there you go, iPad mini charge test for CD-R King Mobile Power Bank PWB-049-ZG 2800mAh, it got the mini charge at 1/4 capacity.  Provided you turned the iPad mini off during the charge.

I was really surprised, the Power Bank got drained that fast by the iPad mini.

GrabTaxi App for the Philippine Android market

I just found out, there is an app here in the Philippines to call a taxi.  This app was advertised on a taxi that I took last time.  

I haven't used the service yet, but want to just let people know what is available in both the Apple Store and in Google Play.  If you ever need a taxi and have P70 to spare, then this app may help you when you can't seem to get a taxi and need to be somewhere else.

I am in no way linked to this app, install and use it at your own risk.  It has high reviews in Google Play, but how do we know the reviews are genuine users and not planted by the developers themselves?

GrabTaxi app is available for download for free in Google Play Store.

People in gaming media have been talking about Xbox One

People or media have been busy right now praising or talking about the new Xbox One.  It now has blu-ray, major hardware upgrade, a far superior Kinect, and better game pad.

I'm more interested in the Kinect since they say it will replace the remote.  Good luck to us Filipinos, since the current kinect cannot even recognize some of our words.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to the new Kinect which I probably won't buy since, I'm more of a PC and tablet kind of guy.

Smart offers iPad mini and iPad with retina display affordable plans

Latest news I found is that Smart Telecom in the Philippines is now offering an affordable plan for iPad mini and iPad with retina display.

There are different monthly options, the iPad offer is a wi-fi with cellular model.  Meaning you need to avail a 24 month lock-in period with their plan.  Smart is offering iPad plan 499, with 65minute internet per month, excess will be charge  P10/30mins in excess.  So you will probably be turning your mobile internet on and off and probably be using the iPad mostly in wifi at home.

Good news for some who don't have a credit card, but want to avail of the iPads thru monthly installments of 24 months.  There is no cash-out required.

Visit the smart website for more details: http://www1.smart.com.ph/Pages/ipadmini/miniplans

Read my review and recommendation on the iPad mini: http://philgadgames.blogspot.com/2013/05/ipad-mini-wifi-version-review-and.html

iPad Mini Wifi version: Review and Recommendation

My iPad Mini: Wi-fi Version Review

iPad mini in landscape orientation

Weight and Feel of the tablet

I was hesitant to get the iPad full large version, since one(1) it is heavy, two(2) hard to handle with a single hand.  But, with the iPad mini, I was right away impressed by the weight and beautiful design it has.  Even though it doesn't have a Retina Display, I still like its impressive display output and an advantage of longer battery life, compared to iPad with Retina Display.

iPad Portrait orientation

Battery Life

Battery life of iPad mini is significantly very impressive.  With minimal use (1-2 hrs a day), I only recharge once a week.  With heavy use, I need to charge it after 8-10 hrs of constant use for games such as Real Racing 3.

With movie, audio, the iPad mini charge lasted longer.  Also, the unit does not heat up as oppose to Galaxy S3, on internet browsing, where the back heats up after a few minutes of browsing.

speaker is only found at the bottom, with lightning port

Sound

The sound is in stereo, and is quite good coming from a small device.  It does not sound like it came from a tin can.  Although, the problem I have with the sound is it only comes out from the bottom of iPad mini in portrait mode.  Unlike Samsung's tablets that have their speakers on both sides in landscape mode.

I'm sure Apple thought of it, that when people watch a video; they do it in landscape mode.  Maybe they will have left and right speakers in later releases, that is just typical Apple strategy to make people to upgrade on their later releases.

Reference of iPad Mini to a sharpie and ballpen

Findings

The iPad Mini is a nice tablet to hold, light weight and sturdy.  Display is good enough, I think there are better display out there, but using the current iPad Mini does not result in any complaint on my part.  I can read my comics and books without any problems, since its size is equivalent to a standard paper notebook.  In fact, the case I bought looked like a plain notebook, and can be placed on a table unnoticed by people if I closed the front cover.

The only disappointment I have with iPad mini, is its processor.  It at times loads a bit slow.  Also, the download isn't multiple.  I notice, I can only download one at a time. Either it be a application, or a podcast, or a YouTube video.

Strong point of the iPad Mini, is its long battery life.  It really is an impressive to only charge once or twice a week on minimal use of podcast viewing, surfing the web.

iPad Mini case with cover

Recommendation

I recommend getting the 32gb (32 Giga-byte) version rather 16gb.  I was planning to get just the 16gb version, but it was out of stock.  Good thing the 16gb was out of stock and I got the 32gb version, since iPad mini does not have a memory card expansion slot support.  I could be deleting contents more frequently than I ever want to on my videos and files, if I got the 16gb version.

I have been using my iPad Mini for a month now.  I constantly download my podcast in HD, and placed some music and movies, my iPad mini 32gb is already almost full.

Although, if you only plan to put e-books and mp3s on your iPad mini, then a 16gb won't be a problem.  Good luck finding a 16gb, since most only want to try iPad and probably already bought that 16gb you want.

Another recommendation I have is pick a good case to protect your iPad.  Its price is equivalent to a laptop (P16,000 above), shouldn't you protect it?  iPad case prices ranges from P1,200 to P5,000 or more.

I haven't regret getting an iPad Mini.  Except maybe at times when I want free apps, that are not available in Apple Store.

CD-R King Mobile Power Bank PWB-049-ZG 2800mAh - Product Review

Mobile Power Bank - lipstick style

I never thought I would be need to buy a power bank for my phone.  Why would anyone need that? Then it happened, I was so busy with work and I forgot to charge my phone.  I happened to me twice that I was thinking of charging my phone while on the move.

There are a lot of power bank products out there, I just happened to want a cheap one, that is why I went with the CD-R king brand.  Now, I don't know if this product will last since I only had it for a week and I only used it twice to test if it does what it says it does.

unboxed - click to enlarge

Build
My take on this product, is it is what it is.  It is a cheap plastic build on the connectors but sturdy looking body.  I just don't know if it will survive a drop, since the body is made of plastic.  What do you expect for a Php280 (around $7) product?  There is no way I would spend more for this kind of product, especially on batteries.  It will be depleted after a number of cycles, so it's better to buy cheap and replace it after a 1,000 cycles (around 28 cents per charge).  Battery is indicated as Li-ion kind, I just hope it is as indicated on the box.

click to enlarge

Ease of use
The product has 2 color LEDs to indicate it charging or fully charged.  On my first try I timed it for 5 hours, and 5 hours have passed but the indicator is still red.  I gave it another 30 minutes for the LED to change color, still nothing I just unplugged it so it doesn't over charge and damage the battery.  After draining it for charging my phones, I charged it overnight.  Morning came, the LED changed into a blue color, which could mean fully charged.

You only need to connect the connector to your USB on a PC or if you have a charger brick directly to an AC power outlet.

Connectors Included
I was disappointed when I was about to buy the unit, since it does not include a mini USB connector.  4 kinds of connector, but none for my device.  I had to use my own from Samsung.  The Output connector is USB, so no problem there if the charger you have is USB connected from the power brick charger.

Does not include a power charge brick.  They expect you to connect it to a PC or laptop.  Or your existing charger that has USB port.


Actual usage feedback
I was excited to test it, I tried using it to charge my Samsung Galaxy S3.  The Power Bank only charged it around 63% full, from completely drained S3.  And it took a long time to charge, I think it also took 5 hours to charge to that point of completely draining the Power Bank.  But on my Samsung Galaxy Y, it charged super fast.  So I guess, it depends on your cellphone's battery capacity.  Smaller batteries charge faster, while larger power hungry phones take longer to charge.

Note:  I had to disable my mobile internet and GPS for my S3 to charge, otherwise the phone will not charge at all, it will actually take longer to charge and actually drains the phone somehow.  This is my observation for this particular Power Bank model on S3 charging.

size compared to a 5 peso coin

Overall
The power bank, does what is says it does, and will be more appreciated by phones with smaller battery for fast charges.  But for huge phones, it is a pain to use and takes longer time to charge.  You just have to be patient in using this mobile power bank, if you have a huge phone that need charging while on the go.

I bought my mobile power bank in Araneta Center Cubao, same floor as the LRT station.  Last I was there, they still have ample stocks only color Orange and purples.

CD-R King product page: http://www.cdrking.com/index.php?mod=products&type=view&sid=15704&main=157

Update:
As of May 3, 2013 - This model of power bank was out of stock in LRT station branch of CD-R King.  I guess power banks that are cheap are in high demand this days.