Audio recording of HTC Touch launch and John Wang's interview

www.msmobiles.com was present at the launch of the HTC Touch yesterday in London and has a full audio recording of the event. Msmobiles also posted an exclusive interview of Mr. John Wang, Chief Marketing Officer of HTC, who happens to be the guy who spearheaded the TouchFlo technology, which can be found on the HTC Touch. The recordings can be downloaded and listenened offline.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

HTC Touch - Let your fingers guide you

To counter the iPhone, HTC has announced HTC Touch running Windows Mobile 6. The device is beautiful and has been added to my to-purchase list. So sad I can't publish a picture of it. In case you did not notice, I've been publishing on the go for a while since I don't have a permanent internet access. While it's very convenient to be able to publish to the blog via a simple email, it doesn't let me insert pictures. I strongly suggest a visit to http://www.google.com/gwt/n?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.europe.htc.com%2Fproducts%2Fhtctouch.html%3Flang%3Den, to see this beautiful device.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

Soleus or Windows Mobile Light

This is a great idea. Intrinsyc has developed a lighter version of Windows Mobile based on Windows CE. What that means for consumers? Simply, cheaper and more phone centric devices. Go to Soleus.intrinsyc.com to watch a demo.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S60 smartphone

Whered-it-go

Very simplistic for a title I must admit. Simple title for a simple but ver useful software. Whered-it-go lets you locate files and folders that are taking space on your device and storage card. You can then delete them and recover that space. Learn more at http://www.rowanvale-software.co.uk/whereDitgo.htm.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

SBSH releases MyList

Get organized with this user friendly list Manager from SBSH. All lists are organized in categories that can be created from pre-defined templates. The software also lets you define your own templates. Another great feature is the ability to import and export lists to common file format for PC use. I recommend you check out http://www.sbsh.net/products/mylist/, for more about MyList.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

Easy Sync 2.6 released

If you're looking for an alternative to Microsoft Activesync, then you should consider EasySync. It has more features than AS, like, for example, the ability to sync any number of files. Meaning, you can sync one file only. Another great feature of EasySync is the ability to sync to the Storage card. Pocketwizards website at http://www.pocketwizards.com/easysync/, has all the info you need to help you make the switch.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

SPB releases 6 new games for Pocket PC

Who does not know SPB Software House? I use three of their products on my pocket PC. SPB has just released 6 new games, including Sudoku. Of course they are not free and if like St3v3, you're a gamer, then you won't mind spending $10 to purchase them. Below is a list of SPB new releases:

Sudoku

Minesweeper II

Quadronica

Matches

Balltracker

Numbers

Check out www.spbsoftwarehouse.com To download a trial or to purchase the games, which you must admit are not innovative.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

Upcoming Windows Mobile Device Center upgrade

If you have already upgraded to Windows Vista, then you should know that Device Center has some bugs. An upgrade will be made available in the weeks to come by Microsoft. I cannot give more details since I have none. This is just what I learnt from a contact at Microsoft. Stay tune, I'll keep you all posted.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

Remotely wipe your phone with Sprite Mobile Swipe

The ability to wipe your phone clean of data when stolen was available to those who had their device connected to Exchange server. It is now possible to have the same feature without Exchange. Sprite Backup, better known for the backup software of the same name, is offering Mobile Swipe for $10. A simple sms is sent to the device to initiate the wipe operation, including the storage card. Sprite Mobile Swipe runs on Windows Mobile 5 powered devices. Read more here: http://www.spritesoftware.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=182

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

Recharge your PDA no matter where you are with solar energy

Going camping, to the beach and you're running out of power for your mobile, pda or mp3 player, do not worry anymore. Solarc, a Germany based company, offers a new solar charger that's small enough to be carried anywhere. Even better, the charger has internal accumulators that let you store energy for later use. Solarc named their product e.Go and it is available in three different flavors: Fun, Master and Professional. Go to http://www.solarc.de/index.php?lang=en&m=2&y=13&yy=62&a=62 To learn more about e.Go.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

Palm's new device and Microsoft Surface

Palm has announced a new Linux based powered device yesterday. Learn more about it at http://investor.palm.com/releaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=246403.

Check out Microsoft's multi touch technology at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2007/may07/05-29MSSurfacePR.mspx

With all these announcements, can't wait to see what HTC has in store for us. As a reminder, HTC will announce new devices on May 5.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

Free: Write memos right from the Today screen and more

Here are a couple of utilities that are worth downloading. Hand write memo lets write and draw directly on the Today screen. Then, there is Quick Memo which will display your reminders on the Today screen also. It will stay there until you remove it. Check out this website for some more cool software for Pocket PCs: http://home.comcast.net/~cheezsj/menue.htm

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

Coming soon: Samsung SGH-i620

MobileGazette has posted a nice article and pictures of the not yet announced Samsung SGH-i620. The device looks good but turns out a bit awkward when opening up the QWERTY sliding keyboard. Read more at http://www.mobilegazette.com/samsung-i620-07x05x30.htm

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

Free: XnView for your Pocket PC

This is a nice utility that lets you "visualize, organize and improve your images and photos". It also "writes images" in different popular format. I'm not a fan of image-editing software, but this one seems to be full of interesting features. Read more on http://www.xnviewpocket.org/features.html.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

Palm to announce new mobile device on May 30

Jeff Hawkins, founder of Palm Inc., will announce new mobile devices through a webcast on May 30. The press release contained no information at all about the devices. So I cannot tell whether they will Windows Mobile powered devices. The press release does mention that the webcast will "describe a new category of mobile device". Stay tuned.

Read the press release at http://investor.palm.com/releaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=246144

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

HTC will announce new devices in June

We have got accustomed to HTC announcing new cool devices, but this time this announcement "heralds a new mobile experience that will change the way we use and control our phones". I just hope this is going to be truly revolutionary as I plan to purchase a new pda to replace my Eten M500. The announcement date is the 5th of June. Let's wait and see. Read more at http://www.pocket-lint.co.uk/news/news.phtml/7899/8923/htc-smartphone-june-announcement-confirmed.phtml.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone.

Tips: Cannot uninstall software because files are in use.

I received an email yesterday from someone being unable to remove software from his device because some files are in use. It is best practice to always reboot the device before performing a software removal. The email also stated that the program did not appear in the Memory list. This means that the program is closed but some files are still in memory and only an advanced Task Manager will show running processes. If you have one, you will be able to identify the files associated to the program you want to remove. But sometimes this is not quite obvious and you might end up stopping the wrong process and render your device inoperable.
The recommend way to go about removing a software is first to perform a soft reset of the device. This will clean up memory of any running processes. This way, no errors will show up and you'll have a smooth uninstall.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

TCPMP plugins to play flash files on your Pocket PC

Very often, I get people asking me if there is a way to play flash files on a Pocket PC. My answer was, obviously, a source of despair to them (sorry for the exageration:)). The good news is that this is now possible if you use TCPMP. A new plugin is available at http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=196939 That will let you download Youtube video directly to your PPC and play the flash file without conversion.

Take full control of your pda with Communication Manager Pro

The developer of this application is looking for beta testers to test Communication Manager Pro. This software will automatically switch profile on your pda phone depending on your location. In my opinion this software is going to be a hit. It is even possible to set a time limit on the use of internet connectivity for GPRS and 3G. I strongly you check it out as there are much more features to it. Go to http://commmgrpro.com/index.html To learn more.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

Free: acbTaskMan for Smartphone released

A few months ago, acbPocketSoft released acbTaskman for Pocket PC. It's great to see that they have ported this cool application to Smartphone devices too. One of the features I like most with acbTaskMan is the ability to track which software is draining the battery.
acbTaskMan is free. Payment of $7.95 is required for added functionality. More on www.acbpocketsoft.com

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

Hero of Lukomorye Chapter I

This is an exciting new expansion for The Quest dont let the name put you off this expansion is very very hard. For those that have been playing the quest series the monsters in this expansion cover from levels 16-25 in the demo and levels 25-50 in the full version.

Dont let the graphics fool you, for what it offers in gameplay more than covers the 80s style graphics. You can download the quest main game trial version on the quest link above and you can download a trial version for Lukomorye here..

Firehawk 1.01

These scrolling shooter games are a dime a dozen (almost as bad as sodoku) but this i will easily put on par with Skyforce. This offers 3 different ship types each with different bomb and fire abilities each needed to cover the massive 6 levels (each with a level boss) mix that with some smooth scrolling graphics and you got one retro arcade style blockbuster. You can download the trial here...

Warfare Inc.

This is my all time favourite game on the pocket pc, it was one of the first games i played and i recently dusted it off to give it a spin. For those that remember the old stratergy clasics like Command and Conquer this is the game for you! Collect resources, build factories, produce tanks and weapons to kick ass in 14 Missions 6 bonus missions this is one of the very few games that also offers bluetooth mulitplayer for upto 4 people. You can download the trial version from here... for a number of hand held devices.

Astraware Tradewinds

I picked up a copy of this a few days ago and having played Guns and Gold previously was quite keen to give it a whirl. I must say i wasnt too impressed with the Graphics or gameplay. The graphics lack a certain something in its simplistic animation and quite often the scenes that are animated leave you thinking that the game is only half finished, Equally the gameplay has a few gaps including the save functionality which will let you save at moments before you attempt a big trade allowing the player to rack up alot of gold very quickly. You can play the demo version from here on either pocket pc or smartphone.

Tips: How to remove software on my Pocket PC/Smartphone?

Removing software on your device depends how they were installed and most important if removal is to apply to both the device and the computer. In any case, I recommend using Activesync to remove software.

Open Activesync on the computer; click Tools - Add/Remove Programs. A window appears with a list of installed programs on your device. No matter which installation method was used, they will all be listed there.

The installed program should all be checked. Clear the check box if you want to remove the program from the device. It is possible to remove the program from both the device and the computer by clicking the Remove button in the "Remove from both locations" section of the Add/Remove Programs window. One might want to just remove the software from the
device only. If there is a need for that same program later all that is required is just select the check box and connect the device for the installation to begin.

Ideawicket's new concept phone

Flexi pda is a new concept with the ability to fold a pda using flexible screen technology. Unfodd the phone and it reveals a QWERTY keyboard. Go to www.ideawicket.com to learn more.

Poste on the go using my superb HTC S620 smartphone

Tips: How to install software on my Pocket PC/Smartphone?

I had a reader telling me recently that he had no idea how to install software on his Pocket PC phone. This might not be obvious when you’re new to Windows Mobile. So I decided to write two articles about this. Part one will be devoted to the different methods of installation and Part 2 will be about removing software on your device.

 

Before you attempt to install software to your device, a partnership must be created with a PC using Activesync. The latter comes with the device companion CD or can be downloaded for free directly from Microsoft website. Once Activesync is installed on your desktop, connect the device using a USB cable or through the cradle. Activesync will automatically sync your mobile with the computer. After synchronization is complete, we can now start installing software. Note that it is not always necessary to perform sync. It is also possible to connect as guest and still install applications to the device. But this is another topic.

 

Now that the device and PC are connected, let’s get started with the installation. Most programs come in the form of an .exe file that you run on the PC. The file will execute and install to the Activesync folder on your PC. At least most well written software will do so. When that part is done, a message will tell you to check your mobile to continue setup.

 

A message will indeed appear on your device asking permission to install a file (“The program is from an unknown publisher. You should install it only if you trust its publisher. Do you want to continue?). Click yes and another message pops up asking for the location where the files will be copied to. There are two proposed locations: Device and Storage Card. To save memory space, it is recommended to install to the memory card. However, not all programs will run from the card. The Readme file that comes with the programs usually provides details about this or check the developer’s website. After you made your choice, click Install. When setup is complete, another notification will appear with confirmation that the software was successfully installed on your device. Click Done to complete setup. This is it. The program is accessible on the device through the Start Menu – Programs folder.

 

It may occur that you download an .exe file for your device and running the file from the PC gives an error saying something like: This file is not a valid Win32 application. If you get this error, simply copy the file to your device and run it there. This happens, I think, when the developer does not create an installer package for the software.

 

Another way to install software onto your device is by copying .cab files from the PC directly to your device or downloading over-the-air from the internet. >cab files are installed directly on the device. Click on them to execute and the process will be the same as explained above (Paragraph 3). It is possible to use installers on the desktop to install .cab files to your device.

This is how I perform installation on both my Pocket PC and Smartphone. If you have a different methods or I missed something, drop me an email to Meslierlp@Hotmail.com

 

 

 

Mouse driver for Pocket PC released

Teksoft has released the final version of Bluemouse, a mouse driver driver for pocket PC that will let you use any bluetooth mouse with your device. BlueMouse is available for purchase for $20.95 with unlimited trial at www.teksoftco.com.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 Smartphone.

Free: SmartToolkit first major release

I blogged about SmartToolkit sometime ago while it was still in beta version. E-Natives technology has finally released the first fully functional version of their software. SmartToolkit "adds new functions such as text editing and resolves limitations with resources as well as provides interface improvements!". It is available as a free download here.

Asus to offer free WM6 upgrades

Asus has announced they will offer free Windows Mobile 6 upgrade for the following devices: A639, A626, A696, P535 and P735. If you are the proud owner of any of these devices, then be patient. Asus has published an official announcement on their website. Go to http://www.asus.com/news_show.aspx?id=7195 to learn more.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 Smartphone.

Free: Call Firewall/Call Blocker/Call Filter

Callfirewall is a nice utility to filter and block calls on your device. Not only is it free, it is loaded with options to fully customize the software based on your needs. One of the features is the Black List pattern. If you enter "123" in the list, all numbers starting with "123" will be blocked. Very useful for blocking calls from other operators, countries, etc.

To learn more and download your free copy go to http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=307178

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 Smartphone

Free: TopStory for Windows Mobile Smartphones

If you need a free RSS Reader to keep up with news online or on this site, Iambic has TopStory as a free download on their website. It's been specially designed to work with Motorola Q and the Dash/HTC S620. Follow the link below to download your free copy:

http://www.iambic.com/topstory/wmsmartphone/

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Wifi Alliance announces wifi 802.11n

After the a, b and g, here comes the n. Wifi alliance will start testing it in June this year. 802.11 will enable wifi networks to do more, faster over a large area. This new technology has the potential to deliver up to five times the throughput and up to twice the range of previous generations.

Read more at www.wi-fi.org/80211n-draft2.php

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620 Smartphone.

Driver update for HTC S620

HTC posted a driver update that will provide the S620 with the latest available optimised software for use with the following accessories:

YC A120 Y-Cable Adaptor

Go to http://www.europe.htc.com/support/software/htcs620.html To download the driver.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Teksoft announces BlueMouse

Teksoft's BlueMouse will be released on Monday, May 21. BlueMouse will allow Windows Mobile users to connect a bluetooth mouse to the Pocket PC. The driver will be compatible with both Windows Mobile 5 and 6. Visit Teksoft's website at www.teksoftco.com to learn more about BlueMouse.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Documents to Go supports Office 2007

Dataviz has released a new version of their award winning software, Documents to Go. Version 3.0 now supports Microsoft Office 2007 and right now, it's the only way to open Word and Excel 2007 on Windows Mobile 5 & 6 devices.

Upgrade today and you will receive free updates that will include:

Support for editing and creating of Word 2007 files.
Support for editing and creating of Excel 2007 files.
Support for editing and creating of Powerpoint 2007 files.

Go to www.dataviz.com To learn more.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Tips: My Pocket PC keeps switching on by itself at 04:00am

For some reason, my Eten M500 would switch on by itself at 04:00 in the morning, waking me up and worst of all, my wife. I'll leave it to your imagination to tell you about her last-month-long reaction. Under pressure, it was hard to solve the problem and of course a soft reset did not help. Until...
One night while browsing File Explorer, I noticed that my SD card was filling up with backup files. My Eten initially came loaded with Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition and persistent storage was not available at that time. Eten did a great job keeping the backup utility in their Windows Mobile 5 upgrade, but with Persistent Storage I completely forgot about the backup utility which was running in the background at 04:00am in the morning. This is how I solved the problem. Just by changing the time to backup. My wife is happy now.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Asus announces the trendy P526

This new phone has a great look. The P526 runs on Windows Mobile 6 Professional edition, has a 2MP camera, GPS, a 200MHz processor. On the other hand, the P526 does not have 3G and wifi. Another dark spot is the processor. The 200MHz processor is great for smartphones, but does not respond well on Pocket pc phones. Read more here.

Calculate the impact of going mobile on your business

Whether you're a business owner or sales person, the Windows Mobile Business Value Calculator will help you assess the impact of implementing mobility in your business. This online tool has been developed by Microsoft's Windows Mobile team. You can read more about the Business Value Calculator via Jason Langridge's weblog at Http://Blogs.msdn.com/jaslonlan/

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Adventures with Imate Suite

This is another chapter in the adventures of the new Imate Jasjam (hermes), today i registed for online billing so i can check my phone bills via the Next G connection. Whilst exploring the bill i came across 3 SMSs sent to a phone number in the UK, only problem is i dont know anyone in the UK. i did a google on the number (+447736592312) only to discover a few forum postings from people who had the same issue with the Imate Jasjam bought from Telstra in Australia. The phone came with some software that when i got home the day i got it quickly removed and replaced with different software (things like the games etc) one thing i removed was the Imate Suite which allows people to backup the device on the Imate website. As it turns out it was the Imate Suite that sent the 3 suspect text messages without me knowing, had i not have checked my bill i wouldnt not have seen the charges. Just shows how well telcos check the software they distribute and remember to always check your bill.

Scroll your contact list with free iContacts

iContact is a simple contacts applications for your Windows Mobile device which will help you scroll your contact list in iPhone style by sliding down your finger in the screen ! It's really amazing and if you get used to it iContact could be one of your everyday apps. The app is very basic, it only lists contacts in scrollable list. I use it for accessing my contacts by scrolling the list with fingers, similar to iPhone. Just tap, drag and release. To select a contact, just tap and
release, and standard contact details dialog should appear.

Download it at http://www.freewarepocketpc.net/get-icontact-v0-2.html

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Tips: How to synchronize Inbox subfolders with Activesync.

It is possible to synchronize Inbox subfolders. If you have a Pocket PC, open Messaging, tap Menu - Tools - Manage folders. Tap and hold the Inbox folder until a menu appears and select New folder. Enter the folder name and tap OK. The next time you sync your PPC, the subfolder will also appear in Outlook on your desktop. If you have a Smartphone, you cannot create a subfolder on the device itself. At least I haven't figured out how to. Instead, create the subfolder in Outlook or Outlook web Access and it will appear on your device after the next sync. Follow these steps to access the subfolder: Open Messaging and select the email account, tap Menu - Folders. Select your Inbox - Menu and select either Show Sync Folders or Manage folders.

Windows Mobile 6 for Eten X500 and M700 available for download

If you have one of these devices, just go to http://www.etencorp.com/Support/WM6/index.php, register by providing an email address, the serial number of your device and the IMEI. You need to remove your battery to get the IMEI or you can type *#06# to get it on your screen. Happy upgrade.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620.

Day one: the new phone

I picked up my new Phone yesterday, the I-Mate JasJam also known as Hermes or tytn. All in all its not bad, its almost twice as thick as the old one but the keyboard as seen in the pic its quite good once you get used to the size, i was tapping away maddly on msn in no time (it left stylus typing for dead). One surprise is the camera functionality which offers the usual templates, photos, MMS etc and to my surprise panoramic photos ... it actually allows you to take 3 photos in sequence using part of the last photo to line up the next photo. The mini fold out stylus was also good although im still not used to it being on the bottom of the device. Had a few issues getting my AD2P (bluetooth headphones) to work with it but once i decided to put them into pairing mode it worked first time and better than ever (i can still hear Linley laughing). Well im off today to get a micro SD (ive got like 7 SDs and now need a micro one!)

Watch the HTC Mogul: Mission Possible teaser

The Mogul is another device from HTC and due for release in October. It seems that everything will be possible for this device. I can't say more since no specs are available but it looks similar to the HTC Hermes. At least, the form factor is the same. Notice that HTC still favors slide out keyboards despite the success of the Excalibur and Cavalier. To watch the teaser go http://rsvpmissionpossible.com/.

Posted on the go using my Superb HTC S620.

HTC releases Vista compatible modem drivers for Hermes and Breeze

Connecting the devices in the title with your Vista PC as a modem for broadband internet connection requires proper drivers. HTC has posted a fix on their website to make it possible to connect via USB. You can download them via http://www.theunwired.net/?itemid=3834#article, along with instructions on how to install the drivers.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620.

Retirement of a Pocket PC

Well the time has come for my current pocket pc to be retired, my Imate Jam Special edition has slowly been getting worse and worse over the past few months. Today it drained its battery for the last time. So let me give a moment of thanks to this wonderfull little device its almost like a 3rd child to me the amount of time ive spent running games, watching movies and the numerous books, audiobooks and applications i ran on it... in the morning it achieves a spot in immortality (right next to my old Nokia Ngage)

Tommorrow brings about my new mobile the I-Mate JasJam powered on the Australian 3G network which i will upgrade to Windows 06 (finally Linley says :) )

So in closing a toast to the best damn PDA to ever run windows mobile 03

Q&A: Windows Media player cannot read my storage card

Q: I have a problem with my pda.
I have a Kingston 2gig mini Sd memory card. Since yesterday, everytime i try to access the memory card through Windows Media Player --> library i get the error message "an unexpected error
occurred".

A: Open File Explorer and navigate to your storage card. In the root of the card there are two files: MSMETADATA and WMDRM. Delete them. If you can't see them, they probably are hidden. In File Explorer, click Menu and select Show all Files. You should now be able to access you SD card within Media Player.

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Download Windows Mobile Traveler's toolkit

St3v3 brought to my attention that Microsoft is giving away a nice tool that you'll surely want to download if you're a frequent traveler and already using Vista. The Windows Traveler's kit combines the most useful online travel gadgets, such as a world clock, weather forecasts, flight status, wifi hotspot locator and more. To learn more and download the software go to http://gallery.live.com/liveItemDetail.aspx?li=247a812c-7b75-48fe-9d81-014fced67528

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620.

SPB releases DVD converter for Smartphones

SPB Software house has finally decided to port their popular DVD converter to the Smartphone platform. Blackjack, Q and Dash/S620 users will be able to convert and compress their DVDs to mobile format. Visit SPB software house website to learn more. A free 15-day trial, or the full version of Spb Mobile DVD for $24.95 are available at www.spbsoftwarehouse.com

Posted on the go using my superb HTC S620

Be ye Warned...

about buying things from Ebay, recently i decided to buy a battery for my Imate. Was only $22 (inc postage) however 3 days after i got it, and when i was about to leave work, my battery meter went from 100% to 0% and backup battery warning came on. After contacting the seller (who asked if i knew how to use it, yes im not kidding!) who would not offer much in the way of replacement or refund i then took the case to a higher authority and eventually (thankfully) got a refund. yet again the moral of the story is becareful what you get from Ebay, this now makes 2 for 2 as my bluetooth headphones and GPS are still working fine.

Sick of Sudoku

Ive played alot of games on pocket pc, yet there is one game i cannot stand and that is sudoku. Yes i know its that number or letter based game where the number and or letter cannot appear in the same row twice. What i dont understand is why there is so many versions of it available for pocket pc, the game itself is so simple you could use pocket excel to play it yet if you search on Handango youll find there is over 100+ listings for this basic game... (as seen here...) instead of putting all that effort into making more sudokus why doesnt someone release a few more RPGs i say....

Office Mobile for WM5 powered Smartphones

I have long hesitated to blog about this because of the obvious legal issues and thus, I want to make sure you understand that you download and install this software aware of the fact that it's the work of one developer and not Microsoft. That said, if you really need to edit Word documents or Excel spreadsheet on your Smartphone, you can download the cab file at this site: http://thinkabdul.com/2007/05/05/download-free-windows-mobile-60-standard-pocket-office-applications-wordexcelpowerpoint-cab-file-for-windows-mobile-50-smartphones/
Also note that Windows Mobile 6 lets you edit such files by default.

Posted on the go using my HTC S620.

Nethack v3.4.3

This is a Port of a really old retro game one of the very first true RPGs except with a slight upgrade of having tiles instead of the old text layout. However for the true retro RPG experience you can even switch to the old text based layouts. The good thing about this game is its completely random, no matter how many levels you go down or how many times you need to restart it, there are help files within the game itself so you dont have to work out the keyboard functions (and theres alot) you can download for free here...

HP will offer WM6 upgrades for Ipaq 2000 series

Jeremy Werner of HP France announced that the company will offer Windows Mobile 6 upgrades to their Ipaq 2000 series. He also added that the Ipaqs hw6815 and hw6915 are not upgradeable. Therefore, no upgrade for pda phones. For your information, the 2000 series will get Windows Mobile 6 Classic Edition, the new name for non pda phones. Read more and watch the video on this french site http://www.neteco.com/73256-video-jeremy-werner-hp-sortons-smartphone-ipaq-514.html.

Posted on the go using my HTC S620.

Some goodies to try during the weekend

The first one is Firehawk, a shoot them up game. It supports both Pocket PCs and Smartphones running WM 2002 or later. It is free to try or you can buy it for $19.95 at www.C2matrix.com.

Then there is Flashthemes 2007 which lets you run animated themes on your Pocket PC. Compaitibility: Windows Mobile 2003 or later; Portrait, Landscape or square screen layout. Visit www.netwasp.com For more. While you're there check the Pocket PC themes toolkit.

Posted on the go using my HTC S620.

Paper Agenda 2.1 announced

Here’s a nice utility for taking post-it like notes on your pocket pc. Below are some features:
• Faster toolbars
• New feature: Cut/copy & Paste!
• New Export feature, every page can be saved as BMP file
• Tool selection is more simple
• Many minor bug fixes

Download here

Shadow Of Legend

ok so take one 900 meg game add a pocket pc device throw in some of the best looking kick ass graphics ever and you have the first ever true online game for mobile devices ever. "900 Meg game" i hear you ask, yep thats right a fully feldged online game with smooth graphics which once you get the initial download only uses 3meg of bandwidth an hour. you can sign up for a beta tester, although with the amount of work these good people have put into the game i would hope at some point they start charging for this excelent game which truly will get best online game of the year. Website available here...

HTC Cavalier shipping in May

This device had been announced last year as the successor to the Excalibur and then has been logically been put on hold. It's now confirmed that Dopod will release the WM6 device next month in Asia. The release in Europe will follow soon after though no official date has been announced. As the owner of the HTC S620/Excalibur, I can tell that the Cavalier is a sexy beast in its black robe. It has WM6 with a 400 MHz processor. The Excalibur runs a 200 MHz processor. The camera has been upgraded to 2.0 Mega pixels. Best of all, the Cavalier has 3G connectivity. The Cavalier is known in Asia as the Dopod C730. Read more...

Tips: Special Screen Alignment Fix

i was unable to find many topics or suggestions on this problem and the fix to my surprise was so simple. My Wifes Imate Jamin (prophet) for the last few months had issues with screen alignment, it kept going about a centimeter to the right the only fix was to realign the screen and that would last at best about 10 mins before it would do it again. Its still covered under warranty but being without a phone for 3 weeks just sucked. i then came across a possible number of fixes one of which was to use a finger and the corner of a shirt or piece of cloth rub your finger from left to right going top to bottom over the screen. It worked like a treat, its now been 12 hours since i last aligned the screen.

Sync your Notes - It's now possible

Like Jason Langridge, Microsoft's mobility manager for Europe, I often receive emails about how to sync Notes with Exchange or Outlook. This is not a builtin feature but fortunately someone has developped a solution to fix this. Not only does it work, it's also free. Here's the link to the developer's website, who happens to be a fellow blogger:

http://skipmeamadeus.blogspot.com/2007/04/free-smartphone-notes-with.html

I got this news via Jason Langridge blog:

Http://blog.msdn.com/jasonlan

Posted on the go using my HTC S620.

Encrypt, hide and block SMSs

This is yet another utility that lets you hide, encrypt and block unwanted sms. EasyHelper has done a great job to bring a lot of features to texting, but I'll personally prefer to have something similar in Outlook Mobile.

http://www.google.com/gwt/n?u=http%3A%2F%2Feasyhelper.googlepages.com%2F

Posted on the go using my HTC S620.

Tips: Ever wanted to test your mobile internet connection speed?

If you want to know your internet connection speed, simply to connect to http://www.texan.net/speed.htm.

Try Fring free

Fring lets you make peer-to-peer VOIP calls using your mobile internet connection, send instant messages, and talk with Voip applications such as Skype, Google Talk, and Msn Messenger at no cost. Best of all, it's fringing free.
Download here: http://www.fring.com/download/

Compress your text messages

Sms Zip is an application that lets you override the 160 character limit of the default Sms software on Smartphones. The full version of the software lets you enter more that a thousand letters in one sms and use the default messaging software to send your sms. Sms Zip is compatible with WM5 for Smartphones and WM6 Standard. I'm wondering what the rendering will be when texting non-smartphones phones.

Download Lite version:

• Sms Zip Lite (Windows Installer)
• Sms Zip Lite (Cab File)

Download Full version via Handango

• Sms Zip

Virtual Blackberry Solution for Windows Mobile announced

Who said that Windows Mobile is not popular? I remember the Wow when Palm introduced the first Treo running Windows Mobile a year ago. Now it's Blackberry's turn to jump on the bandwagon by offering a virtual solution that will allow Windows Mobile 6 powered devices "to benefit from the popular Blackberry software applications and services." Who will benefit most from this? It's quite obvious that RIM has more to gain than Microsoft or device manufacturers. Blackberry's form factor has not evolved much over the years, while there is a wide variety of Windows Mobile powered QWERTY phones on the market and RIM's market share is shrinking due to the versatility of these devices. The positive aspect of it all is that users will get to choose. RIM, Welcome to Windows world. Read RIM's press release.

Spb Software House Releases Spb Phone Suite

The prolific developers of SPB softwarehouse have released a long awaited missing feature for Pocket PC Phones, spb phone suite. Most windows Mobile powered pdas don't come with a tool that lets you manage profiles, call filtering, missed calls etc. I have been lucky enough that Eten had the foresight of including a profile manager on the Eten M500. Even though it offers 4 types of profile only, it is better than nothing. The M500 also has a "Missed Call Manager".

Here are some of the features of SPB Phone Suite:
Profiles
Profile switching is so much a cornerstone feature of any phone that it is very strange that this feature is still lacking from the Professional version of Windows Mobile. Spb Phone Suite profiles not only control phone setting but also WiFi, Bluetooth and backlight level seetings. Spb Phone Suite uses automatic profiles to automatically switch your profiles based upon the situation, like when your headset is plugged in, or your car kit is connected, or you are in a meeting that you previously marked in your calendar as "busy", or you can manually configure a preset time.

Missed Call Notifications
Spb Phone Suite gives you the option to have sound notifications upon missed calls or unread SMS messages. This feature helps you not miss your important calls.

Reject and Send SMS
Unexpected calls can be really annoying during meetings. With Spb Phone Suite you can immediately send an SMS with predefined text with just two taps after you reject a call.

Photo Speed Dial
With Spb Phone Suite you can place your most frequently used contacts right on the Today screen. Spb Phone Suite comes with more than 50 avatars a user can use for photoless contacts.

Call Filtering
Call filtering is based on the idea of white and black lists. The call filtering feature has been specially designed for ease of use. This way a user can add unwanted people to the black list with just a few taps.

Other Features
There many other features like photos in the call log, the wireless manager, and the Today plug-in, etc., that altogether improve the phone experience and make Windows Mobile almost a perfect platform for modern phone devices.

Pricing and Availability
Spb Phone Suite is currently available in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Traditional Chinese, Czech, Polish, Dutch, Japanese and Thai languages. Spb Phone Suite is compatible with Windows Mobile 5.0 for Pocket PC Phone Edition and Windows Mobile 6 Professional devices. A free 15-day trial can be downloaded, or Spb Phone Suite can be purchased for 19.95 USD, from SPB's website.

Which one is best: Palm OS or WinMo Treos?

Who better than Joe Farbis, Director of Wireless Solutions at Palm, to answer this question. The answer is in a series of post on the official Palm blog, started today by Joe Farbis. From yesterday's post we learn that likes the application buttons on Palm OS Treos and finds that "multitasking is great" in Windows Mobile.

Conclusion: "When I'm on the PalmOS, I'd really like to multitask, and when I'm on WinMo, I'd really like the direct control off the application buttons."

Next topic will be about "music players...or Sales Force Automation...or my Tivo..."

I wish I had these devices in hand to answer this question.

Read more...

Official statement from HTC about Windows Mobile 6 upgrades available!!!

Msmobiles has an official statement from Maggie Cheng of HTC about WM6 upgrades to be available for HTC Advantage, the HTC TyTN, the HTC S620, and the HTC P4350.

HTC is also offering WM6 upgrades for the most popular devices in its current range. This includes recently launched “messaging” products, which will enjoy the greatest benefits of Windows Mobile 6, such as the HTC Advantage, the HTC TyTN, the HTC S620, and the HTC P4350. The upgrade will also be available for the award-winning HTC P3300, plus some of our operator-branded devices. The upgrades will be rolled out from June, in line with our operator partners’ strategies. Read more via Msmobiles

Ezyunzip - Free exctraction utility

If you need a good compression utility and one that really works, then download Ezyunzip. It runs on all Pocket PC devices (including Windows Mobile 5.0 and 6.0) as well as on Handheld PC devices based on Windows CE. Download here

Tile space user interface for Mobile devices

Based on this document published on the U.S. Patent office website, Microsoft is working on a new interface for our devices. It seems that we’ll hardly have to leave the Today screen to access applications.

The subject disclosure pertains to systems and methods for providing an improved user interface for mobile devices. Data and services available through the mobile device can be represented as a set of tiles maintained in a display space. The tiles provide a snapshot of the current state of content available through the mobile device without requiring any interaction by the user. The tiles and display space are customizable and can be dynamically updated to display content to a user. In addition, tiles can provide functionality, including simple tasks to a user without requiring the user to navigate away from the tile display space. Tiles can also provide quick access to start software applications. Tiles can be organized in the display space by the user or the tiles can be automatically grouped based upon associated metadata. Read More

Vocal Instant Messaging for Windows Mobile

Palringo has just released the beta version of Vocal Instant Messaging for Mobile phones and PCs. This is a most welcome addition to IM on Windows Mobile devices.Visit their site and sign up.

Key features:
Voice: use your mobile to chat with friends by speaking or texting

Messaging: leave messages even when contacts are not connected

Availability: Instantly see status of contacts

Interoperability: Connect to users of popular PC IM systems

Open: Works independent of your mobile service provider

Why did we remove Bluetooth DUN? - Greg Scott

Greg Scott is a developer that provides core networking technologies on Windows Mobile. In this article he writes about the reasons why Bluetooth DUN has been removed. He writes that "Microsoft did not remove Bluetooth DUN completely. We still ship this technology to our OEMs. It is included in an optional package that OEMs and operators can decide to ship on a per device basis". Don't you think it's about time that Microsoft decides what's to be part of the OS and let operators and OEMs build and sell devices only? Don't you think it's about time that devices come as is instead of being stripped of Wifi by phone carriers to increase profits? Share your thoughts and Read Greg Scott's article here.

The Secrets of Da Vinci

This a quite an interesting game that has nothing to do with Dan Brown's novel. Here's a synopsis:

Château du Clos Lucé, 1522.
Valdo, an ambitious young apprentice working for Leonardo Da Vinci's disciple Francesco Melzi, is extremely disappointed when the scholar suddenly dismisses him. However, shortly afterwards, he receives a letter from a mysterious patron, asking him to locate one of the great master's missing codices.To access Leonardo Da Vinci's last residence, the Manoir du Cloux near Ambroise, Valdo tells its new occupant, a courtesan by the name of Babou de la Bourdaisière, that he is Francesco Melzi's apprentice and that he wishes to examine the inventions that still remain on the estate. Read more.

The Smell-o-phone comes to the U.S

This will bring marketing to a whole new level Motorola has a patent for a handset that releases scents by heating a gel pack apparently the same way a airfreshener works. According to this Article from crave recent marketing campaigns in the US have included the "Got Milk" people setting up a bus stop in San Francisco to smell like cookies. Makes you wonder what sort of effect this has on the world of nature.

Palm's official blog

Paul Loeffler of Palm has recently started Palm's official blog. Welcome to the blogosphere Paul Loeffler, it was about time. There has been an avalanche of comments since his first post. Click here to visit the site.

Q&A: How to keep Windows Media as the default MP3 player instead of TCPMP?

Q: I installed TCPMP on my PDA and now it’s the default MP3 player. I want Windows Media player to be the default player without uninstalling TCPMP. How do I do this?

A: Upon installation of TCPMP it does become the default MP3 player. Some users have reported that their MP3 ring tone stopped working because of that and they fixed the issue by uninstalling TCPMP. There is a workaround to make the two media players co-exist happily alongside each other while keeping Windows media as the default MP3 player. This is how to:

Start TCPMP, tap options > Settings. Tap Select Page at the bottom of the screen and select File Associations from the menu. Uncheck MPEG Audio Files box. This will make Windows Media the default for MP3s. This solution works for both Pocket PC and Smartphone.

Download the Windows Mobile 6 product reference guide

Jason Langridge of Microsoft has blogged about the availability of a reference guide that contains detailed documentation of all enhancements in Windows Mobile 6. The file (12MB) is in pdf format and can be downloaded here.

Resco Call Recorder (Beta)

This is rather exciting, one of the things i miss from my old Ngage was the answering maching programs and call sound programs that was available on Symbian which due to hardware and OS restrictions in pocket pc devices is almost impossible.... untill now. Resco Call recorder will record both sides of a convosation on a pocket pc devices, yes thats right it will record a convosation which is the first application i have seen to do this on windows mobile. While this isnt an answering machine its definatly a step in the right direction, you can download the trial and read more here... (note that this is only in Beta)

Dell stops selling Axim handheld

Dell announced today (yes was a big day for announcements) that it will no longer be releasing the Axim handheld. "The Axim X51 family is no longer being offered, and we have no plans for a follow-on product at this time," Dell spokeswoman Anne Camden said in an e-mail. Camden noted that the company does sell handhelds from other makers on its Web site, including GPS devices and smart phones. More available here...

Palm announces Linux Palm

Palm has announced a venture into the world of the Tux (linux) today with a surprising move to try and revamp the stagnating palm OS, there has been a small and strong growing push within hand held computing devices for a linux solution. There is a few rom sets in development to replace the windows OS on pocket pc devices but no fully supported fully finished solution to replace the Windows Mobile OS with a linux os, this in mind Palm could be hunting for a new foothold back to attempt to reclaim its lead in the computing world. More available here which is palms official press release.

Automatically sync or backup any files, folders and storage cards of your mobile device to your computer

Easy Sync is a desktop application that runs on your PC and works over Microsoft Active Sync connection. It extends limited functionality of file synchronization presented in ActiveSync. Easy-to-use interface with customization options make Easy Sync available for novice users. Easy Sync is not free, but a trial is available. Learn more here.

Q&A: Excel Mobile cannot find my files

Q: I have an Excel sheet in a folder on my Storage card, but when I start Excel Mobile, this file is not in the list of spreadsheets. Am I doing something wrong?

A: This issue arises when a file is saved to more than one folder deep. If you want your file to appear in the aggregated list, it is recommended that you create a folder in the root of the storage card and save your files there. This is by design and is not a bug.

Download Retro Detonation free

Game lovers might want to download this game from Inscenic. It's free but registration is required.

Ultimate classical game with excellent graphics, nice music and easy-to-perform control. Help RD to blow up his enemies and go through five unique worlds and remain undamaged. Game features:
5 worlds, 10 levels in each of them;
2 game modes - classical and advanced ones with a store where you can buy weapons and bonuses;
16 various creatures (some of them kill being rather far from you);
20 bonuses and 4 types of weapons
the mazes are generated in random manner and that's why each of the levels is always unique;
modern graphics, unique music tracks for each of the worlds and SFX!

Beta testing Windows Live (Part 7)

When Mail is selected, it expands to display the first three emails in your inbox. The sender’s name and email’s subject are displayed.

Beta testing Windows Live (Part 6)

I used to have Hotmail listed; it’s now replaced by a Windows Live Mailbox.

Beta testing Windows Live (Part 5)

You can manually initiate a sync right from the Today screen

Beta testing Windows Live (Part 4)

When logged on to Windows Live Messenger

Beta testing Windows Live (Part 3)

The Windows Live Messenger Sign in screen.

Beta testing Windows Live (Part 2)

When Windows Live is selected, it expands to show your details. Notice the two green arrows. They let you move to other Windows Live features. When you sign in to Messenger, this screen will also display the number of contacts you have online.

Beta testing Windows Live (Part 1)

I am beta testing Windows Live since Saturday and all I can say for now is that it works great. This post is just about introducing Microsoft’s new application and I’ve also added some snapshots of the product. I have yet to play with it and will post another article about its capabilities in a few days. So far, I can tell you that I love the Push mail for Hotmail and how fast I was able to log on to Messenger and even add Voice clip while chatting. Below are some pictures with brief descriptions.

Picture below shows my Today screen. You get to choose to display both plugins , only one or none on your Today screen. Note: I use a HTC S620 Smartphone.

Site Announcement: New Q&A, Tips & Tricks link

Hello Readers,

This is to inform you that two new links have been added to the site which will let you easily find all Q&A and Tips & Tricks posted here. Hope you will find this small addition useful.

Happy Easter All,

Linley Meslier

Flipstart labs announces super compact PC

FlipStart offers the capabilities you expect from your laptop — comfortable application usage, communications, entertainment, and Internet connectivity. Its industry standard components include an Intel Pentium M Ultra Low Voltage platform, 1.1 GHz of processing power, and a 30GB hard drive with the choice of Windows XP Professional or Windows Vista Business operating systems. In terms of connectivity, this device has it all or almost. It’s got Wifi, Bluetooth and connection to Sprint Mobile Broadband Network. Indeed, flipstart is plan for release in the U.S only.
FlipStart labs is funded by Microsoft co-founder, Paul Allen. I think Mr. Allen has never heard of or seen a UMPC. More...

Q&A: Help! Activesync is draining the battery

Q: I have WM 5.0 and Activesync 4.0. Activesync turns itself on automatically on the PDA and drains the battery. As I read the instructions they say I should open Activesync on my PDA>Options>schedule and change the automatic to manual. The schedule function is not available (will not open).I have unsuccessfully tried to access the Schedule tab on the PC. Activesync does work fine and does what it should in terms of synchronizing. Do I have to un-install Activesync on my PDA and PC, and re-install so as to re-set the schedule function to manual?

A: The schedule tab is enabled only if when connected to an Exchange server. Obviously you're not but you can create a dummy one. Just open Activesync on your PC, click Tools and select Configure server Source. Type any name then click finish. The schedule tab should be enabled in Activesync. Just select manual from the both drop lists. Remember to delete the dummy exchange server afterwards.

V2R releases ActiveUI

V2R Active UI has been developed as a Todayscreen plug-in (for Windows Mobile Pocket PCs) and Homescreen plug-in (for Windows Mobile Smartphones) with a standard V2R icon- and animation-set.The V2R Active UI plug-in allows users to access the most wanted applications, settings or documents directly from the Today-/Homescreen. The standard version, which is for free, is shipped with predefined templates for animations, designs and functionalities. On the V2R Web page users can find more animations, designs and functional plug-ins which will feed all the different user needs. In the future, V2R will regularly release new free and payable plug-ins for the V2R Active UI with different plug-in sizes, animation styles and functionalities. More

Citibank's online mobile banking

Not so long ago, I blogged about sending money via sms using your cellphones. I just learnt that Citibank has just launched a new mobile banking service in the U.S. All that is required is a free downloadable software from their website. Check their faq page for more info.

Offbeat: Picnik – Online photo editing made fun

Picnik is a quick and easy way to fix your photos online. It is still in beta version and free to try. Picnik lets you fix underexposed photos, remove red-eye, crop and resize photos. It also lets you work directly with many photo sharing sites. Better yet, no software to install and it is compatible with Mac, Windows and Linux. Try here.

BenQ develops new concept phone

This is a cool phone. The concept of moving the slider to create more viewing space is simply neat. Posted on Thelastgadgets.

Sign up for free Windows Mobile themes

FreeWMThemes is a site offering free professionally designed themes for Windows Mobile. These folks really mean business since you can setup your device for RSS feeds that will keep you posted when new themes are added. Themes are available for QVGA, VGA and square screens. Register here.

Download Pocket Express today and enjoy it free for 6-months

This is yet another software that displays information right on your Today screen. You will be able to enjoy access to breaking news, local weather, stocks, up-to-the-minute sports scores and stats, maps and turn-by-turn driving directions, horoscopes, and even movie show times in one simple mobile option. The service is free for 6 months only. More here.