11/06, 4:40pm
Aids in iPhone photography
Quirky has announced a new addition to its line of iPhone 3G and 3GS accessories, the Beamer. The case features a hard plastic outer shell, and a two-piece design, requiring owners to remove the base before inserting an iPhone. Giving the case its name is an LED light, which can be used either as camera flash or a standalone light. A button triggers three different functions: 10-second lighting, constant light, or simply shutting off.
more
11/05, 4:55pm
New cases and colors for iPhone 3GS, iPod nano 5G
SwitchEasy has extended its iPhone and iPod accessories with the CapsuleRebel M case for the iPhone 3G and 3GS, and the Cubes case for the fifth-gen iPod nano, which is now available in silver and metallic gold. The CapsuleRebel M is a revised version of the company’s earlier CapsuleRebel case, and features an UltraFrame hard protection system, with soft polymer for cushioning. The case is designed to protect the back and sides of an iPhone, and includes an ergonomic spine structure for better grip.
more
11/05, 8:55am
Telus HSPA launches with new phones
Telus this morning took its turn at launching its own HSPA+ network and new devices, including the iPhone. It sells the iPhone 3G and both the 16GB and 32GB iPhone 3GS units at the same $100, $200 and $300 prices as at Bell and Rogers on a three-year contract. The plans are slightly different than Bell's and start with a $50 Clear Choice iPhone plan that provides 150 minutes, unlimited evenings and weekends after 9PM and 500MB of data with tethering but supplies the perk of either unlimited local calls and MMS/SMS messaging to five numbers, double the minutes, or 1,000 outbound (unlimited inbound) messages.
more
11/04, 3:30pm
Supports iPhone 3G and 3GS
iSkin has released a new iPhone 3G/3GS case, the iSkin Solo FX Special Edition. The case uses an open-faced design, with a matte finish and an embossed pattern of circles. Power and volume controls are covered, while still permitting access; full openings are present for the dock connector and other ports. Color options include ice (white), onyx (black) and cosmo (pink).
more
11/04, 2:50pm
SportShell for iPod touch, SmartCase for iPhone
Marware and IvySkin have each announced updated iPhone and iPod touch cases, the SportShell and the SmartCase. The SportShell is now available in a version for the second-generation iPod touch. It uses a three-piece hard shell, made of polycarbonate plastic with a rubberized finish. The case can operate as a flat-back or open-back case, or else clip to a belt where it can rotate 360 degrees.
more
11/04, 7:55am
Bell iPhone plans cost just $45 a month
Bell today launched its HSPA+ network and its first devices, including the iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G. The network supports up to 21Mbps downstream on the Novatel Wireless U998 ($75) and future modems that support HSPA+ and should also supply as much as 7.2Mbps for the iPhone 3GS and other current smartphones.
more
10/23, 5:00pm
Outputs to TVs, stereos
TUNEWEAR has launched a new iPhone and iPod dock, the VisualDock. The unit is an AV-capable docking station with S-Video and line outputs. Special controls toggle simulated 3D sound, and alternating between charge or charge/sync modes when connected to a computer. The dock supports the iPhone 3G and 3GS, all iPod nanos, first- and second-generation Touches, the Classic and the older fifth-gen video iPod.
more
10/15, 7:50pm
Subsidized and off-contract prices detailed
Adding to details leaked in an earlier report, documents from the Canadian carrier Bell appear to show launch plans for the iPhone, BlackBerry Bold 9700 and Samsung Omnia 2, according to the Boy Genius Report. The latest source claims the iPhone 3G will be available for $150 with a three-year contract after rebates, while off-contract pricing is set at $600.
more
10/08, 4:10pm
Super Charger extends iPhone battery life
USBfever has released two new products for the iPhone 3G and 3GS, the Super Charger battery extender and the 360-degree Swivel Stand. The Super Charger is a lithium-powered rechargeable battery, capable of extending a phone's talk or online time up to 8.5 hours, and audio playback up to 40 hours. Video and Wi-Fi ratings are listed at 11 and 10 hours, respectively.
more
10/08, 3:40pm
Also fits iPhone 3G
eNcipient has launched a new protective case for the iPhone 3G and 3GS, the VOi! Lorem. Designed as a hard-shell snap-fit case, the VOi! Lorem guards the back and sides of an iPhone from bumps and scratches, while still providing access to all ports and controls. Built into the back of the case is a small tether that wraps around a person's wrist, stopping an iPhone from falling if it slips out of hand.
more
10/06, 9:30am
Ends Canadian exclusivity
Canadian carriers Bell and Telus have announced separate deals with Apple, ones which will let them both carry the iPhone 3G and 3GS beginning in November. The companies have published no details of their agreements, such as phone prices, subscription plans or specific release dates. The two will however have to compete with Rogers, which until now has held exclusive rights to the Canadian iPhone.
more
10/05, 10:40am
Suffering declines due to iPhone, iPod work
Scottish manufacturer Wolfson Microelectronics is projecting year-over-year financial declines for its fourth quarter, says the Financial Times. Revenue is expected to be between $33 and $34 million, flat relative to the second and third quarters of 2009, but down from $37.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2008. The trouble is attributed mainly to a broken relationship with Apple; while Wolfson chips are featured in the iPhone 3G, there are none to be found in the iPhone 3GS.
more
09/30, 11:45pm
Cubes iPod nano 5G case, Accent for iPhone 3G
SwitchEasy and Marware have released new protective cases for the iPhone 3G and 3GS, as well as Apple’s latest iPod nano 5G. Cubes by SwitchEasy features a duotone silicone design somewhat resembling a checker-board style, and offers tears resistant material that protects against scratches, scrapes or bumps. It is made for the iPod nano 5G and comes with additional guards to help protect the devices click-wheel, screen, and 30-pin connector. Cubes is currently available in Black, Red, Blue, Pink, and Yellow colors.
more
09/30, 11:40pm
Aha traffic app, CoPilot Live GPS updates
Both Aha Mobile and ALK Technologies have released new updates to their GPS-enabled apps for the iPhone. The Aha traffic and destination-finder app allows users to see the current traffic flow and travel time of roads, while delivering tools for locating nearby rest stops or coffee shops. With the latest 1.2 update users have the ability to speak into their iPhone and broadcast voice tweets to nearby drivers, as well as post the Aha Shouts automatically to either Twitter or FaceBook.
more
09/25, 12:55pm
16GB model available for $99
AT&T is currently offering refurbished iPhone 3G handsets starting at $49 for the 8GB model. Customers can also purchase the 16GB variant for $99. The deal still requires a two-year service agreement and a $30/month data package.
more
09/25, 2:25am
KLIPS Series, Argyle Love iPhone 3G cases
Boomwave and iPhone CAZE have both launched new iPhone 3G and 3GS protective cases: the Boomwave KLIPS Series and the iPhone CAZE Argyle Love. The KLIPS Series delivers a slim polycarbonate hard-case with a form-fitting design and glossy finish. It protects against bumps, scrapes or scratches, and includes a screen protector and free clear polycarbonate case with each purchase. The Klips series come in a variety of different styles ranging from Skull Black to Tribe White, as well as BloodBone Black, Flos Black, Flos White and Vector Black.
more
09/25, 2:15am
New Outfit, Outfit Shade cases for iPhone 3G
Griffin Technology has announced it's expanding the line of protective cases for the iPhone 3G and 3GS with additional patterns and hard cases. The company's Elan Form Etch cases which are made from a combination of leather bonded to a polycarbonate inner shell will be available in four additional patterns including Solstice Taupe, Stars, Chess Taupe, Rewind, 405 and Vintage Brown. Each case also comes with the EasyDock design that enables users dock the iPhone without having to remove it from the case.
more
09/18, 10:25am
Significance questioned
Pong Research has introduced the Pong iPhone case, said to reduce a user’s exposure to phone radiation. Designed for the iPhone 3G and 3GS, it uses a silicone skin integrated with a proprietary module claimed to redirect radiation away from a person's head. The case has been FCC certified, and allegedly reduces the specific absorption rate by approximately 60 percent, and more intense "hot spot" radiation by 85 percent.
more
09/17, 6:15am
Hip Holster, I.D. case for iPhone 3G and 3G S
Mophie and Case-Mate have released new protective cases for Apple's iPhone 3G and 3G S. Mophie’s new Hip Holster line consists of three leather cases designed to hold both the iPhone and the company’s Juice Pack. The cases are available in three different models, the 5000, 5500 and 6000, which covers the complete set of Juice Packs for the iPhone, iPhone 3G or 3G S. Each case features an easy-access belt clip for simpler transporting, while keeping the iPhone hidden and secure via a magnetic closure.
more
09/16, 4:05pm
Environmental organization claims health threat
Apple's latest iPhone, the 3GS, ranks almost squarely in the middle of smartphones in terms of radiation output, a non-profit activist organization says. The Environmental Working Group notes that according to compiled data, the 3GS produces approximately 1.19W/kg of radiation. The figure is substantially lower than the worst-case examples, the T-Mobile myTouch 3G and the Kyocera Jax S1300, which each produce 1.55W/kg.
more
09/16, 10:10am
Current-gen devices must wait
The unofficial iPhone Dev Team says it has released a new version of PwnageTool, v3.1. The software jailbreaks various Apple handhelds, allowing owners to install unofficial apps, or unlock an iPhone in particular for use with unsupported carriers. The update is designed to circumvent blocks created by Apple's iPhone 3.1 firmware, released just last week.
more
09/11, 9:05pm
iTalk Recorder Premium 2.0 for iPhone
Griffin Technology has released the latest version of its voice recording app for the iPhone or iPod touch, iTalk Recorder Premium 2.0. The upgrade provides simple one-touch recording capabilities, and includes improved support for sending recordings through e-mail. The new transparent controls provide users with increased navigation for going forward or backwards through a recording. iTalk also comes with three different settings when recording, Good, Better and Best.
more
09/07, 2:40am
3-in-1 iPhone 3G car mount
USBfever has released its latest 3-in-1 accessory for the iPhone 3G and 3G S, consisting of an in-car holder, belt clip, and charger. The device features a car windshield holder for keeping the iPhone secure while driving, and includes a car charger as well. The belt-clip enables users to remove their iPhone from the car while still keeping it protected inside the holster. The charger features short-circuit protection to prevent iPhone damage and includes an LED indicator.
more
09/02, 4:30pm
MicroShell case for iPhone
Marware has released the MicroShell for iPhone, an "ultra-thin" hardcase for the iPhone 3G and 3GS. The half-shell design is 1mm thick, with a metallic sheen and a smooth rubberized finish. Six colors are available -- black, red, blue, pink, white and silver -- along with a clear version.
more
09/02, 2:50pm
Swarovski crystal cases
iPhone CAZE has announced new Swarovski crystal cases, premium versions of its Mirror Go and Love Pair iPhone 3G and 3GS cases. The Mirror Go is a hard-shell case with a mirror-like exterior, while the Love Pair features a durable, metallic-style design with a smooth matte surface. Both premium cases are decorated with over 40 Swarovski crystals around the Apple logo on the back.
more
08/28, 7:50am
China Unicom iPhone Deal
China Unicom on Friday confirmed in its interim results that it had reached an agreement with Apple to carry the iPhone in China. The news supports word of finished talks and will launch the smartphone sometime in the fall. Most terms aren't available, but China Unicom has said the deal extends for three years and that two models will be involved, at least one of which is likely the 16GB iPhone 3GS.
more
08/20, 10:10am
iPhone 3G Wi-Fi problem
An issue with Wi-Fi connections is affecting iPhone 3G owners, according to forum discussions. Those with the problem cannot connect to Wi-Fi networks, regardless of signal strength. The originator of the forum topic notes that Wi-Fi may only work after a phone has been freshly rebooted. Alternately, multiple people have commented that while a connection may technically persist after a phone has been put to sleep and awakened, users may suddenly find themselves unable to receive data.
more
08/19, 11:05pm
SportShell Convertible
Marware has released the SportShell Convertible, its latest multi-functional case for the iPhone 3G and 3GS. The new case is a re-designed version of the company’s previously released Sportsuit Convertible; it features a polycarbonate hard shell with rubberized finish and three interchangeable parts. The package offers a basic slim-pocket case that can be combined with a clip and attached to a waistband, belt, or the armband that is included in the set.
more
08/19, 3:25pm
Canadian iPhone shortages
The iPhone 3GS continues to be unavailable in much of Canada, writes the Globe and Mail. Despite promises of continual shipments, Rogers says it is once again out of stock for the iPhone 3GS -- launched in June of this year -- and even the iPhone 3G, released in 2008. The carrier's sub-brand, Fido, is still said to have some 3G models in stock.
more
08/18, 3:40pm
CEO Premiere+ case
Marware has launched the CEO Premiere+, an environmentally-themed holster case for the iPhone 3G and 3GS. The case is made of primarily out of "eco-leather," an RoHS-compliant leather produced with a minimal use of harmful tanning chemicals and dyes. A separate hard-shell case can be used in conjunction.
more
08/17, 2:00pm
Carriers Hurt by iPhone
Despite claims to the contrary, Apple's iPhone is ultimately hurting the carriers that have picked it up, a Strand Consult study says. The analyst group maintains that "not one" provider offering the iPhone has seen a financial or market share boost since adding it to their rosters. In many cases, these companies have either seen reduced profit from the heavy subsidies needed for the iPhone or haven't seen the surge in data revenues they expected from customers moving to more expensive smartphone plans.
more
08/14, 12:45pm
Qik for the iPhone 2G S
Qik has announced its video streaming application is now available to download for the iPhone 3G S. Qik allows users to take videos directly from the iPhone 3G S camera roll, and upload them onto their favourite blog or website. All videos are automatically archived to Qik.com, where they can be shared and posted on websites such as YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. When recording a video using the app users also have the ability to frame their footage in either a horizontal or vertical style.
more
08/04, 1:25pm
Elan Form Etch ships
Griffin Technology has introduced its newest iPhone 3GS case, the Elan Form Etch. The new case is a polycarbonate inner shell bonded to a soft leather outer shell. The new case features an intricate etched pattern on the brown leather shell. The case allows for easy connection to docking stations, without requiring the case's removal.
more
08/03, 3:45pm
Verizon cuts phones to $99
Carrier Verizon Wireless has dropped the price of virtually all of its smartphones to $99, observers note. Amounts are contingent on a two-year contract, but represent a major reduction in some circumstances, for instance lowering the cost of an HTC Touch Pro by $320. Only two phones remain above the $99 level: RIM's BlackBerry Tour and the Samsung Saga.
more
08/03, 11:50am
T-Mobile UK iPhone deal
T-Mobile UK has already begun distributing the iPhone 3G to some customers, a report says. Rumored late last month, the scheme is believed to be addressed towards people threatening to leave the carrier. Eligible subscribers must be paying over £75 a month, and only 50 T-Mobile agents are authorized to offer an iPhone, up to a maximum of three per week, per agent.
more
08/02, 10:05pm
Precision HSD iPhone case
AGF has expanded its line of iPhone accessories with the new Precision HSD case for the iPhone 3G and 3GS. The flip-style design guards both the front and back of the device, pairing a hard outer shell with a soft microfiber lining. The case does not latch to the phone, enabling users to orient the device with the screen facing either in or out.
more
07/31, 10:00am
Russian iPhone sales low
The iPhone 3G has been unsuccessful in the Russian market, says Fortune. Three major phone carriers began selling the device there six months ago. A deal with Apple required 3.5 million iPhones to be sold over a two- to three-year period; carriers and their retail partners, however, have only been able to sell 250,000 phones since the Russian release date.
more
07/30, 10:50am
Kaufman iPhone 3GS report
A report from the Kaufman Bros. research firm is said to indicate a sales shift towards higher-end iPhone models, including the iPhone 3GS, and specifically the $299 32GB model. While this should be beneficial to Apple's revenue, gross margin and EPS, the analyst suggests that the company may have expected users to be more enticed by the lower price of the iPhone 3G, and deliberately held back on 3GS production until the trend was noticed. The results conflict with predicted effects in the current recession, and indicate that buyers are willing to pay a premium for a faster processor, video recording, extra storage, and other features of the 3GS.
more
07/28, 12:05pm
Apple component patents
Apple has won a collection of new patents from the US Patent and Trademark Office, linked to a wide variety of products. Among these is the Apple TV, for which Apple has been granted a patent on the set-top's remote. The remote is able to identify expected light sources in the midst of ambient ones, such as reflections.
more
07/28, 11:40am
CSR SiRFstar IV GPS Chip
CSR's GPS division SiRF today introduced SiRFstar IV, a new generation of GPS chipsets ultimately intended for smartphones and other particularly low-power handhelds. It improves on the longstanding SiRFstar III used in many dedicated navigators by supporting a new very low-power state. Rather than have to shut off completely when not in use to save battery life, it can enter a near-sleep state that can acquire a position fix much faster than it would from a cold start.
more
07/26, 5:40pm
Palm Pre 100 at Best Buy
(Updated with Best Buy response) Best Buy this weekend quietly cut the price of the Palm Pre to $100 when paired with a two-year contract. The discount slashes the multi-touch smartphone's cost in half and comes less than two months after the phone was released. No explanation has been given for the move, including whether or not the new price is permanent or a temporary sale.
more
07/23, 8:35am
ATT Q2 2009 Results
AT&T today posted one of its best-ever spring quarter results credited mostly to the iPhone 3GS launch. The company says it added 1.2 million cellphone subscribers, an all-time high for spring. It adds that it activated 2.4 million iPhones between April and the end of June. The number ties that of the iPhone 3G launch quarter but is considered a record as the iPhone 3GS and $99 iPhone 3G were only available for less than two weeks in the period covered by the results.
more
07/15, 10:25am
T-Mobile on UK iPhone
T-Mobile UK will not respond to rumors that it could begin carrying the iPhone 3G, according to an official statement. The company dismisses reports of negotiations as "merely speculation," on which it cannot comment. The statement does not represent a denial however, leaving an open end to the idea that T-Mobile could become the UK's second iPhone carrier.
more
07/13, 2:55pm
UK iPhone exclusive ending
O2's UK exclusivity deal for the iPhone may be coming to an end within the next few months, T-Mobile suggests. The latter company says that it is already in talks with Apple, and could begin carrying the iPhone 3G within a matter of months. The iPhone 3GS has not been mentioned by T-Mobile so far, nor is it said to have been brought up by Orange, also rumored to be pushing for UK sales.
more
07/08, 4:05pm
iPhone and Pre Hurt BBerry
The iPhone and Palm Pre together are dragging down BlackBerry sales, according to estimates by Piper Jaffray analyst T. Michael Walkley. Both the iPhone 3GS and the $99 iPhone 3G have hit the BlackBerry the hardest, as some June customers at AT&T were buying one of Apple's devices in place of similarly priced phones from Research in Motion, like the Curve 8310 or the Bold. BlackBerry sales at that carrier were lower this past month than in May, a rarity for a company that has seen sharp growth from year to year.
more
07/06, 3:45pm
iPhone 3.0 battery drain
The iPhone 3.0 firmware is likely responsible for some unusually heavy battery drain on Apple handhelds, claims Aaron Vronko, the CEO of RapidRepair. The group was one of the first to conduct a teardown of the iPhone 3GS. Devices with the v3.0 firmware can sometimes drain "very quickly," Vronko notes, to the extent that they may be unable to make it through a single workday without a recharge. Similar complaints have appeared on Apple's support forums.
more
07/01, 4:00pm
Uniea brings updates
Uniea has announced three iPhone 3GS case updates and a new hip case. The U-Suit Premium, U-Skin, and U-Suit Folio Premium have all been upgraded. The U-Suit Folio Premium, a soft leather flip-case, now allows access to the headphone jack and the volume control. The U-Suit Premium is another leather case, which has gained three material options: original, Napa and black Intrecciato.
more
06/24, 10:30am
Mini Capsule Microphone
USBfever has launched the Mini Capsule Microphone, a new attachment designed for the second-generation iPod touch. The device offers plug-and-play capabilities, and works as both a microphone and a speaker. Power is supplied by an iPod's internal battery. While meant for Touches, the mic is also said to be compatible with the iPhone and iPhone 3G.
more
06/23, 9:15am
ultrasn0w unlock live
After some delay, the unofficial iPhone Dev Team has released the ultrasn0w unlocking tool for iPhone 3.0 firmware. The current version is only functional with the iPhone 3G, but enables use of the device with any unofficial GSM carrier. American T-Mobile customers must however disable 3G access before using the hack.
more
06/19, 4:50pm
PwnageTool for iPhone 3.0
The unofficial iPhone Dev Team has released a new version of PwnageTool for the Mac, updated to jailbreak devices running the iPhone 3.0 firmware. Once jailbroken a handheld can load unofficial applications, and provide access to normally forbidden code. The software is not currently functional with the iPhone 3G S, but should work on first- and second-generation iPhones, as well as the first-generation iPod touch. Second-generation Touches must use redsn0w instead.
more
