The FCC has scheduled a reverse auction to help facilitate a build out program to expand 3G services to rural regions. The agency has compiled a $300 million Mobility Fund for Phase 1 of the project as it aims to give US citizens ‘universal broadband and advanced mobile coverage by the end of the decade.’ The money has been made available as part of the Connect America Fund.
An app that allows unlimited tethering from an iPhone or 3G iPad to a Mac or PC has appeared in the App Store, called iTether and costing $15. The app requires that users download a free matching Mac or Windows application from the developers' website after installing the iOS app, but once this is done users simply connect the iPhone or iPad to the Mac or Windows machine via a USB dock connector cable to share the connection.
A Sprint executive suggests tablet makers need to outfit their devices with phone features before the 3G/4G models can gain a foothold in the market. The company's director of business product marketing, Jeff Adelmann, argues that users should be able to choose between answering a voice call on their smartphone or tablet.
Popular VOIP and telephony app Line2 has released a Line2 HD version for the iPad that lets users make or receive calls as well as text-message using Wi-Fi or 3G. The app requires an existing Line2 account (due to App Store restrictions, users must get the account from the website rather than within the app) and allows users to port over existing phone numbers, supports Visual Voicemail and generally turns the iPad into a full-fledged mobile phone.
A modified MacBook Pro with a built-in SIM card slot and a raisable 3G antenna that showed up on Ebay three weeks ago will soon be back in Apple's hands, CNet is reporting. A North Carolina man, who originally bought the item for parts from a listing on Craigslist for parts, had his Ebay attempt to sell off the machine stopped by Apple, who are now in touch with him to arrange its return, despite bids as high as $70,000 before the auction was pulled.
Just days after a prototype MacBook Pro with a built-in 3G antenna appeared for auction on Ebay (since removed), the company has been granted a patent on an integrated wireless antenna system that is "hidden" in keys on a notebook keyboard, perhaps demonstrating a superior way of adding 3G (or other wireless) communication to future models. The patent lists Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but also mentions GPS and 3G as possible connections, AppleInsider reports.
Nova Media in Berlin and Belgium company Option have made available a combo router with support for both broadband and quad-band 3G which supports up to 14.4 Mbit per second download and 5.76 Mbit per second uploads, compatible with most 3G networks worldwide. The GlobeSurfer III+ also offers DSL failover, automatically switching to cellular data and switching back when the broadband connection returns.
Verizon will now start sending text-message alerts (free of charge) to 3G data customers when their data uses crosses certain thresholds, the company has announced, alongside the e-mail based alerts that have been available for tablet, netbook, PC card and mobile broadband customers previously. In addition, customers can check their data usage on-the-fly by dialing #DATA, which will send a free text message with current usage information.
The BBC is developing a single app intended to allow its field reporters to file video, images and audio reports directly into the BBC News system from an iPhone or iPad, Journalism.co.uk reports. The new app, which will replace a hodge-podge of commercial apps like AudioBoo currently in use, will allow correspondents to broadcast live from an iPhone even using only a 3G signal.
Berlin-based Nova Media have introduced a "surfstick" for Mac OS X made in conjunction with Belgium company Option called the iCON 461, a world-wide 3G data stick modem that is completely unlocked and can be used with most 2G or 3G networks around the world. The modem features an integrated GPS chip as well as a MicroSD card slot, enabling it to double as portable storage.
A survey being sent out to select MacBook Air owners may reveal that Apple is considering adding native 3G capability to the ultra-portable -- among other possibilities, reports AppleInsider. The survey also asks questions about how users handle syncing data, how often and for what purpose the USB and MiniDisplayPort ports are used, what accessories MBA owners use most often and other such questions.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has issued a press release that has expanded the use of the term 4G. Technologies that can now carry the 4G label include regular LTE, WiMAX and even what it broadly refers to as “evolved 3G technologies”. Previously it had maintained that the only technologies that would fit any definition of 4G would have to comply with either LTE Advanced or WiMAX 2.
Nova Media today announced a major update of its 3G connection manager for Mac, Launch2Net Premium, to v2.1, adding new support to 3G modems from Huawei and ZTE as well as updating its connection settings for other providers such as Novatel, Sierra Wireless, Sony Ericsson and Option. The program smoothes the connection process for Mac users who want to use a 3G modem to provide internet access, helps find local prepaid providers, keeps track of usage and includes an ability to create an ad-hoc wi-fi network so that non-3G devices can share the connection.
In just a few days following Skype's Android app launch, hackers have reportedly managed to enable VoIP calling over 3G networks. Although international users could take advantage of 3G VoIP calling without using modified software, the US release restricted users to placing calls over Wi-Fi networks.
Best Buy has accidentally confirmed its Connect mobile 3G service ahead of schedule. The company quietly published a website for the new service, however the pages were quickly removed. Earlier reports suggest the offering is actually based on Sprint's network, but rebranded specifically for the retailer.
AT&T has announced that it has completed 3G MicroCell deployment for all customers in the continental US. The system works as an independent 3G connection for a home or office, routing data and voice through a wired broadband connection. Users can make phone calls or use data features even in dead zones or fringe areas.
T-Mobile today said that the ongoing expansion of its HSPA+ network will cover 25 major urban areas by the end of June, providing the 21Mbps access to significantly more people. The latest cities to get the expansion include Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New Orleans, and North Carolina's research triangle area (Charlotte, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem). This more than doubles the number of people covered by T-Mobile's HSPA+ network, from 30 million to 75 million.
T-Mobile has announced ongoing expansion of its HSPA+ network which brings faster 3G data speeds for subscribers. The company's HSPA+ network has been broadened in the New York City metropolitan area, including New Jersey and Long Island, along with other New York Cities such as Albany, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse.
AT&T has disclosed its pricing structure for international data plans for the 3G iPad, indicating similar fees currently tied to the iPhone. The costly "Data Global Add-On" options include four levels of usage, ranging from 25MB to 200MB. Customers will have to pay $25/month at the lowest level, while the 200MB plan fetches $200.
ABC is reportedly ready to launch an updated version of its iPad app, according to the Business Insider. The app will allow users to stream videos across 3G networks, overcoming the Wi-Fi limitation of the current version. An ABC representative recently blamed the restriction on a "variety of business and technical considerations."
The iPhone Dev Team, a group better known for iPhone jailbreaking, has allegedly found a way to send SMS messages from a 3G iPad. The additional functionality reportedly requires raw code, as the feature has yet to be officially enabled on the tablet, according to details listed on a Twitter post. SMS messages are also prohibited from AT&T accounts bundled with the 3G models.
AT&T has extended availability for its 3G MicroCell router beyond the initial pilot cities. Customers can now sign up from additional locations in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, San Diego and Las Vegas. The device creates a local 3G hotspot, using an in-home broadband connection to connect back to the phone network.
AirLive has introduced the Air3G, a multifunction router capable of working with USB-attached wireless broadband modems. Users can configure the the router to choose the wired connection for primary use, while the 3G modem is automatically enabled only if the primary connection is disrupted. To help prevent overage charges on a wireless broadband account, the router automatically switches back to the standard connection as soon as service resumes.
Apple and Verizon are allegedly involved in negotiations regarding a CDMA-equipped iPhone, although both companies are said to be unable to agree on pricing, according to UBS analyst Maynard J. Um. A separate Wall Street analyst, Brian Marshall of Broadpoint AmTech, suggests that Apple is focusing on Verizon to be the 3G carrier for the rumored tablet device.
Sony on Monday announced that its flagship Reader Daily Edition has begun shipping. The device features a seven-inch touchscreen optimized for newspapers and magazines, while a 3G connection utilizes AT&T's wireless network to download content from Sony's Reader Store.
AT&T has responded to Fake Steve Jobs' call for iPhone users to work together in an attempt to overload the carrier's data network at noon on Friday, according to Cult of Mac. An AT&T spokesman criticized the protest, claiming it was totally irresponsible and simply an attempt to bring more readers to the blog, which is written under the Fake Steve pseudonym by Newsweek's Dan Lyons.
Apple has allegedly established a system to minimize licensing costs for 3G components patented by Qualcomm, according to Bernstein Research analyst Toni Sacconaghi. While most 3G OEMs are paying Qualcomm roughly 4 percent on the wholesale price of their phones, Apple reportedly dodges most of the fees and pays an estimated 1.6 percent of its iPhone revenue to the chip maker.
Verizon has filed a response to AT&T's lawsuit which had sought a temporary restraining order (TRO) to ban the "there's a map for that" ads critical of the latter carrier's 3G coverage. Verizon defends its ad campaign, claiming the coverage maps are accurate and clearly labeled as 3G networks. AT&T argues that the ads mislead customers to believe the comparison includes 2G coverage.
Dell's Android-based Mini 3iX has surfaced in Brazil with support for Wi-Fi and 3G UMTS/HSDPA on 850MHz, 1900MHz and 2100MHz bands, according to photos posted on the Brazilian site CelularCafe. The integration of 850MHz 3G components adds evidence to rumors suggesting Dell is planning to bring its Mini 3i smartphone design to the US market.
nova media has launched the GlobeSurfer X.1, a WLAN b/g/n router that connects via ethernet or 3G modem. The router has two 100 Mbps ethernet ports, a USB 2.0 port for a 3G connection and a standard USB 2.0 port that supports an external drive or offers print-serving with an attached printer. It uses a web interface for configuration and arrives with a quick setup wizard for assembling a local network.
Modem Mate is launching an external antenna for USB-based 3G modems that lack an antenna connector. The device couples inductively with the internal antenna of most 3G modems. The antenna ships with an adapter that features a fastening strip for attaching/detaching the coupler to a 3G modem. The antenna then clips to the upper portion of the display for the best signal strength.
nova media has launched the GlobeTrotter Express 441 ExpressCard modem, providing Macintosh notebook users worldwide access to 3G connections. The modem supports HSPA connections in the 850-, 900-, 1900- and 2100-MHz bands providing maximum 7.2 Mb/sec download speeds and 5.76Mb/sec upload speeds. GPRS and Quad-Band Edge connections are supported within the afore-mentioned bands. The modem features an auto-off switch, triggered by retracting the antennae, so it can remain in the express card slot of a MacBook Pro constantly, only drawing power when the antennae is raised, and not interfering with airplane signals when retracted.
In brief: Gameloft is currently working on a new iPhone game that is based on the Apple II classic "The Oregon Trail". The game has been updated for the iPhone platform and will have several new features to take advantage of the devices capabilities. No release information has been detailed yet but several screen shots have been released. The WebObjects Community Association has started conducting their annual survey for collecting information from its community. The collected information is used to plan ahead for next year and also to help plan for the next WOWODC. In other news, nova media has released a new hardware development kit for 3G devices based on a 3G embedded wireless module.
Berlin-based nova media today unveiled the iCON 431, a 3G USB modem with a rounded form-factor that is designed to match the visual aspects of Mac computers. The device supports download speeds of up to 7.2Mb per second and upload speeds up to 2Mb per second using HSUPA, while EDGE and GPRS connections will provide downloads speeds up to 220Kb per second. An integrated Micro-SD card slot allows memory expansion up to 8GB.
AT&T and Apple are pushing to have a New York court dismiss a number of charges in a class-action suit alleging that the iPhone's 3G performance falls short of advertising claims. The plaintiff in the case, Avi Koshitzki, also added additional accusations regarding cracks in the phone case. In the event that the dismissal is rejected, the companies have also filed a motion to compel arbitration, claiming that the arguments would be better suited for an alternative dispute resolution process outside of the court.
nova media has released the GlobeSurfer III, a 3G wireless router for the Mac. The router can link to a mobile network using WLAN (802.11 B and G networks) and gigabit Ethernet to distribute the connection. The router supports up to 7.2Mb/s downloads speeds and 5.7Mb/s upload speeds. It also links to the Internet via WLAN connections at 54Mb/s speeds.
T-Mobile has announced the expansion of its 3G voice and data network to include the San Francisco area. The company claims that it will add at least 20 more markets by the end of the year. Customers with 3G handsets can expect faster data speeds in the areas with the new service. Users in the SF area will be able to use the full network capabilities of the upcoming G1 smartphone, right next door to the iPhone manufacturer's headquarters.
A new leak today reveals the much-anticipated HTC Touch Diamond will support HSDPA and HSUPA 3G data networks in the US market. The news comes after the device was spotted on Best Buy's online store, listed as unlocked and sporting a near $700 price tag. Best Buy estimates customers will get their HTC Touch Diamonds sometime between September 29 and October 4, although that may be postponed closer to those dates.
Yet another FCC filing has brought news of a new cellular phone, this time from Samsung. According to the specs, the A837 will support HSDPA 3G data network access and will be outfitted for reliable use in the field thanks to its ruggedized body, large speaker and push-to-talk functionality.
LG made everyone wait until Thursday to release its rumored X110 10-inch notebook that would compete with the likes of the ASUS EeePC and the MSI Wind at the IFA 2008 consumer electronics expo. The portable computer uses HSPA 3G for mobile access to data, in addition to a 802.11b/g wireless LAN connection and dedicated Ethernet port. The processor will be an unspecified one from Intel’s Atom line-up, working with 1GB of RAM.
Thorough testing of the iPhone 3G's various antennas have revealed that they are not the cause of users' 3G woes, after three of the devices were run through trials in a $100,000 test chamber similar to ones used by Motorola. When placed in the chamber, the iPhone demonstrated no irregularities when sending or receiving 3G data, showing only a 2 dB variance from a Sony Ericsson P1 and Nokia N73. Göteborgs-Posten reveals [1|2] that a 4 to 6 dB variance would be cause for alarm.
Swann Communications today announced its latest security solution, the IP-3G ConnectCam 1000. This camera allows users to access the live video from their 3G phone. Video feeds are transmitted through 802.11b/g to the home wireless network, where it is made available on the internet using SSID filtering and 64/128 bit WEP encryption to ensure privacy. MJPEG and MPEG4 compressions are supported, the former for higher quality and the latter for sending over the internet.
In light of a large roundabout of finger-pointing, a study reveals that the slow iPhone 3G speeds are stemming from poorly implemented carrier networks, rather than reported firmware issues with the device. Wired offered its Gadget Lab test results, collected from over 2600 international users, showing that Apple's highly-coveted iPhone is limited by overall network performance, rather than being susceptible to poor performance, due to its firmware or hardware components.
Apple say its latest iPhone update partially fixes connection problems with high-speed 3G networks that have sparked complaints from users around the world. Apple spokeswoman Jennifer Bowcock said Tuesday the v2.0.2 update "improves communication with 3G networks," according to USA Today. Such a statement is uncommon from Apple, which rarely comments on software updates and has been largely mum on recent problems with the iPhone 3G.
Apple is facing the first of what could be many lawsuits over the iPhone 3G's performance and reliability. According to Ars Technica, Jessica Alena Smith filed a complaint against Apple Tuesday, seeking class-action status. The complaint reads that the Birmingham woman's text messages, data and e-mail were slower than she had expected since Apple had been advertising the 3G as "twice as fast for half the price." She said her iPhone would only connect to AT&T's 3G network less than 25 percent of the time.
MacNN has confirmed that Best Buy is expected begin selling the iPhone 3G in early September, making it the first independent US retailer to offer the device. Best Buy has reportedly struck a deal with Apple to carry new iPhones in 970 stores and 16 Best Buy Mobile outlets starting September 7th. An announcement could come as soon as early Wednesday morning, according to report first noted by AppleInsider. Best Buy is no stranger to Apple products, having a long-standing on-and-off relationship with the company over the years. The company has been selling iPods for several years and recently expanded Mac sales at more than 600 of its larger stores.
A number of iPhone 3G users, particularly in Canada, have been reporting a strange error when using Safari at 3G Speeds. Users receive this error message: "kCFErrorDomainCFNetwork error 302." Users on Apple's support pages and a variety of other forums have written about the problem.
After trials in New York, T-Mobile is preparing to unveil its nation-wide 3G network on October 1st, according to a poster that reveals a selection of major US cities to first receive the service. While members of the community previously tossed around the date, the poster confirms that users in Los Angeles, as Vegas, Dallas, New Jersey, Washington, and 21 other cities will be able to use 3G-capable T-Mobile devices with the network's faster transfer rates and superior call quality.
Audio accessory maker iLuv has announced a full line of form-fitting cases for the iPhone 3G, including a unique two-toned silicone model. There are four models available: a basic silicone case in black or white, the two-toned silicone model, and hard cases in acrylic or clear plastic. All of the cases allow full access to the iPhone's controls and ship with a glare-free screen protector film. Users can charge or sync thier iPhones without removing the case.
While Apple claims to have sold 1 million iPhone 3Gs during the device's opening weekend, metrics appear to show that AT&T did not earn as many switchers as the first time around, and even indicate that the company may have lost as many customers as it gained. Engadget reveals that it obtained data regarding the number of ports in and out from T-Mobile in the US, as it was observed by a national wholesaler, which indicates out that T-Mobile gained as many customers as it lost to and from AT&T during the 3G launch.
