You can probably find wireless networks in Singapore as easy as you find trees locally. In my room, I have a wireless network at home. In school, I think NTU has a very good coverage of wireless network (they are quite “good” actually, I can’t get a signal when I am at the bus stop, the parameter of the school). In office, I wouldn’t need one, I can get a LAN connection.

BUT, if you got a iPod Touch/iPhone, wireless network can be rather precious at times. Especially when iPod Touch does not have a USB storage connection and if you have got your device out of jail (I mean jailbreak!). OR if there is only one LAN connection and two computers require the connection.

So time to create a guide on this one.

Requirement:

  1. Computer (Laptop/Desktop)
  2. Wireless LAN Connection
  3. LAN Connection (Connected to Internet already)

Step 1: Go to “Control Panel”

Step 2: Then “Network and Sharing Center”

Step 3: Then on the left hand column, “Manage network connections”

Step 4: Check that your wireless connection is not connected. (You can’t connect it to a wireless network and assign it to be a access point at the same time.)

Step 5: Go back to “Network and Sharing Center”

Step 6: Then on the left hand column, “Set up a connection or network”

Step 7: Choose “Setup a wireless ad-hoc (computer-to-computer) network”

Step 8: Click “Next”

Step 9: Fill the fields according these:

For “Network Name”, you can type anything you want.

For “Security Type”, choose “WEP” (It is not the safest, but most devices are compatible)

For “Security Key”, any 5 digit/letters password.

Step 10: Up till this point, the wireless network has been setup successfully, but in order for the devices on this newly setup network to connect to the Internet, there is one more step.

Step 11: Go back to “Manage network connections” (Read Step 1 to 3 again)

Step 12: You should see that the wireless connection has been connected and the LAN connection is connected as well. Highlight both of them.

Step 13: Right-click on any one icon, then click “Bridge” and vola! Your computer is now a makeshift “router”.

When you are done using the network, to disconnect, right click on both icons (this time individually) and click “Remove from bridge”.

There you go!

Click on image to go to the store.

Introduction

As I have covered the review LG GM730 Joy (Link) (It was called ‘Eigen previously, I got the name off Singtel Shop! But now it’s called ‘Joy’), I will be reviewing the LG Application Store, one of the major talking point of Joy. But first off, it is worthy to mention that not all applications in the LG Store is exclusive to LG phones!

All applications in the LG application store are Windows Mobile compatible, not just LG phones. Why? Because Windows Mobile is the OS of the phone and since the application has to run on it.

Windows Mobile applications have long been in the Internet even before Apple has got theirs. Veteran users of smartphones would certainly be familiar. But since this is a amateur blog, I would leave no stone uncovered.

So since LG store is not exclusive, can LG customers download applications from else where? Indeed. And in fact there is a wider range of selection. So then why would anyone want to restrict themselves to a smaller pool of selection?

Simply because Microsoft did not develop a marketplace for the windows mobile OS (but it is coming soon on Windows Mobile 6.5). As a result, developers sell on their own, and resellers sell and they are selling applications for several versions of windows mobile. In fact there have been 4 or 5 of them.

Software developers therefore did not have a one size fit all solution and hence less IT savvy users have difficulties ensuring that the software is compatible with their smartphones.

This is in my opinion, the selling point of the LG application store. You can get applications that are definitely going to work for your phone (As far as hard logic goes).

What’s in the store?

Like a online store that sells tangible items, the LG Store’s home page largely displays the applications available for sales, except that there are FREE applications! You will have to sign up an account to download applications (even the free ones). There are also two small boxes on the right hand side that display applications you have bought and applications you have browsed respectively.

There are 12 categories of applications including Games and Productivity. Because the LG store is relatively new, the range of applications are quite limited. LG has also got its own Developer’s Network, so there is a likelihood that there maybe more applications to come.

Furthermore, it appears the prices are probably a little expensive. For me, its paying the price to ensure that the application will turn out compatible with your mobile phone.

Like it's fruit name rival, there is two options, to download via the phone or the computer. BUT not all applications have both options. Some applications is only available via computer download. In the screenshot above, its an application that can be downloaded via computer and phone. And of course, those stars represent the user's rating.

With the background covered. Let's download applications! The first step is to create an account, which is a breeze in the LG store. However, there is a need to provide your phone number and network provider which in my opinion is unnecessary since downloading of applications have nothing to do with the network provider.

Via computer

For a start, I tried to download a FREE game called Draw Poker. It is the most download free game in the store.

To my surprise, when I click on the download button, there is no automation to download and install the game for me. I had to download the file to my desktop and transfer it to my phone for installation.

While there is a read me guide, it's a potential turn off for those who are unfamiliar with Windows Mobile because after the transfer, you would need to find the file via the file explored on the phone. Normally that file is a .cab file.

Installation on the phone is pretty easy after you find the installation file. Double click on the file, the rest is handled by the installation, apart from a few "do you want to continue".

Well, while the procedures aren't too complex, it's a far cry from the applications over at the Apple's. Too troublesome and could be too much to deal with for a average consumer without following the guide.

Via phone

The screenshot above are taken from the LG GM730 Joy that LG has loaned us for trial. I have to say the loading on the phone is even faster than accessing it from a computer. I was also impressed how the layout of the store turns out on the small screen. It is neat and incredibly easy to navigate.

I tried to buy and download a game called Ferrari GT Evolution HD. It will cost me S$8.75 as you can see in the screenshot. Payment is very much like other online payment, just provide the credit card details.

The game will stay in your account for future download as well. For each application purchase, there will also be an order confirmation sent to your email. Also, the download link only last for a week hence, if you loses the installation file, you will not be able to install it again. There is no limit to how many time you can install the game though.

The whole process of getting the application off the store is similar to via the computer. Save the installation file and run it. That is it. And it is certainly much easier to do it via the phone since user does not have to move the file to the phone and locate it.

Conclusion


If you are a LG phone user, the LG Application Store is a MUST visit place for you. I do feel that many smartphone users are not tapping on the potential of the smartphone and its applications. A store that could allow you to do away with the worry that the applications aren’t compatible with your phone is most welcome.

I do feel that LG has put in a decent effort to make the process of buying and installing as user friendly as possible. But I do think the installation has to be automatic because it could be a tab to troublesome for most.

The range of the applications have to increase and the developers supporting the store must increase as well. Judging from glances at the applications available, I have to say that most of them are already available elsewhere on the Net although as mentioned, downloading from the LG Store means you phone is compatible with it.

On a broader front, LG Store will improve the whole package of a LG Smartphone (not all LG phones support the application installation!). However, it is going to be a killer feature that consumers will dead for? I am not sure.

The success of the store will be dependent on LG coming up with a phone that is really innovative and capable of making full use of the applications store, probably something that is LG exclusive.

I have not own a LG before and would hesitate to recommend one in the past but it could probably change with the improvement the LG is beginning to show.


From time to time, we get emails from the manufacturers on their latest promotion, contests and products launches. And last week, the “My Buddy, the VAIO W” competition arrives in our mailbox. Refer to our post if you want a little history on the Sony Netbook. (Link)
I am not sure if VAIO W is ever going to be your buddy, but the fact is most people I spoke to want to lay their hands on the one and only model of Sony Netbook. So I reckon if you are creative and loads of free time on your hand, this competition is for you!
Today is the 14th of September, so you got 10 days to do this. Good luck!
The following are words copied and pasted from the mailer. Lazy blogger I am.

Just visit any Sony store listed below and grab a life-sized VAIO W brochure or download it from the VAIO W microsite: (http://www.sony.com.sg/microsite/vaio/products/vaio_w/index.html?cid=VAIO_micro_W:external_page_vaio_w_fb:link).

Once you’ve got your hands on the cool brochure, get your creative juices flowing on how the VAIO W will complement and enhance your lifestyle.
Take a creative photograph of how the VAIO W (represented by the brochure) will be your best buddy wherever you are and whenever – even when you’re bungee jumping, strutting down Orchard road in your fashionista best or lying in bed watching your favourite movies!

The most creative fan photo submission as determined by Sony will walk away with the coveted VAIO W! Check out the album: My Buddy the VAIO W to be inspired!

Contest ends 24 September, 2359hours.
Visit http://www.facebook.com/ilovetheVAIOW to learn more about the VAIO W!


One of the star deals at the Comex is the ASUS F83T. While it is really cheap, there is a catch to it. It HAS a single core processor that has been recently released by AMD.
For years, manufacturers have been trying to squeeze more processors like our SMRT squeeze more passengers into the train. Now they are taking a step back. Why? So that price of the notebook can be reduced.
A little of history on this particular processor is that AMD actually made it for laptops that can be classified “Ultra-Thin”. HP Pavilion dv2 is the first laptop to spot this processor. The special selling point is the low cost of the processor  and yet not restricted to the Intel’s ruling on their Intel Atom N Series processors that the form size are should not be bigger than a certain resolution meaning a LCD of about 10”. (Yes, more people are complaining that Netbooks’ LCD are too small).
ASUS F83T is it really worth the S$898 (with student pass)?
 Brochure – Bootstrike
First, AMD Neo MV-40 is a SINGLE core processor. It is slightly more powerful than Intel Atom that you find on Netbooks, but it is not restricted to a 10” LCD. If you tend to think that their performance is the same, read this. (Link)
Secondly, ASUS F83T is armed with a really decent graphics card, HD4570. A Netbook typically has an on-board card that couldn’t do movie editing or gaming with speed to save its ass. So “Ultra thin notebooks” are on a different level.
Lastly, apparently and more importantly, ASUS F83T while using the MV-40, aren’t really what you call a “Ultra-Thin” notebook. At 2.39kg and about 3 cm, its pretty heavy and thick!
Kind of not using the AMD processor the correct way and at the same time, for me spoils the package.
All-in-all, ASUS F83T is a start buy or budget buy depending on how you see it. Of course, there are others whom think that single core processors are a misfit in today’s market dominated by two cores. But then again, if video editing and gaming aren’t your activities, AMD Neo is pretty cool with you if you can tahan 2.39kg.
(Link) – Product Page
I haven’t forget Axioo as well. Ultimate budget range with great specifications. Since I haven’t try their laptops before. I am not in the position to comment if they are durable etc. But I do think that Singaporeans tend to buy with branding in mind and hence that could be a major hinder to many.
PS: By the way, I just read the review by HWZ on the Comex 2009 and I must say its one of the more comprehensive and impressive one from the guys over the last couple of shows.
(Link) – HWZ review part 1
(Link) – HWZ review part 2
  
Manz… Took a round at the Comex early this afternoon thinking I could walk comfortably looking at the babes and gadgets. But I was so wrong. Its b***** packed already!
Anyway, we Singaporeans are suckers for anything that looks like a promotion is going on as well as babes. Oh I think I am repeating myself.
One of the glaring problem at IT fairs continues, the very inexperienced and sales-driven sales people with no knowledge of their products or brand image.
Enough of the rambling and for the record, third straight IT show without a purchase for me.
As usual, the link to brochures. (Link) – One of the sites with the most brochures, Bootstrike
For those who are going down to the Convention Hall on the weekend, please be reminded that the Marina Square’s entrance to Suntec has been blocked off for exit only. Meaning, that door is just for people going out of the hall. (At least this is what happened to me today).
And for this last part of the post, let me refer back to the post title; Comex 2009: Where is the iPods?
Coincidentally. Apple just refreshed their line-up of iPods today (including a iPod Nano that record video but not take pictures.); the first day of Comex. Hence, very few iPods were on display and I was pretty amused to see few iPods and no big crowds at the Apple retailers booth. Only iPod Shuffle survive the refresh with a cheaper price tag, while iPod Touch has got a newer firmware and also a cheaper price.
And there is this booth, I think its nubox, packed all their iPods in a small transparent case and they are still giving out brochures with the old models and prices.
Let’s just hope they are honest enough to tell the customers that there is new line-up and new prices!
Anyway, stocks of the new iPods should be coming in before the weekend.
Update 11/09/09 1pm: My resourceful NTU senior, Alan, told me that the new iPods are undergoing checks at the IDA and most likely will not be in time at the show.
Update 11/09/09 4pm: Looks the Apple Store SG has got the stock. And also looks like Comex 2009 could have them too!

Introduction

By now the marketing campaign of LG Eigen GM730 has probably past its peak. Whether is it the traditional media such as TV, national papers or the new media such as blogs, Eigen is everywhere. A much stronger effort than LG Arena, there is a lot to anticipate from this LG product.

At S$468 with a 2 year Singtel plan, it will probably belong to the upper band in terms of price. I mean Omina 2 (Link) and iPhone are higher but not by much. But LG Eigen is not directly comparable to those two. Simply because it is much smaller in terms of size (it is thicker but has a smaller surface area).

Similar touchscreen phones in terms of size include LG’s very own LG Arena, Samsung Preston, Samsung S8003 Jet and Samsung F480.

The major selling point of Eigen is its LG-developed S-Class interface. This new interface will overlay that of the Windows Mobile 6.1 and gives user a better menu navigation as well as graphics.

Specifications

  • 528MHZ msm7201A from Qualcomm
  • 256ROM/128 RAM
  • EDGE, GPRS, GSM, HSDPA (3G)
  • Bluetooth v2.0 with A2DP
  • WiFi
  • 3” QVGA Display with 65,000 colours
  • Micro SD (up till 16GB) – So that should be SDHC
  • Camera: 5 Mega pixels, 2592x1944 pixels with autofocus and video-recording
  • FM Radio
  • Pocket Office

Appearance

The Eigen is glossy. Very glossy. But not to the extend of fingerprint magnet. The back plate is actually not glossy, instead it is of the plastic material.

The simplistic design includes one optical button (touch and scroll sensitive) and two touch buttons (Call and Close) on the phone itself. There are only three buttons by the side of Eigen, the volume controller, camera and keylock/On/Off switch.

The real selling point of LG, at least from my point of view, is the small form factor. Eigen is actually a very compact and relatively small compared to any other full touch screen phones in the market (as I say earlier, smaller than iPhone and Omina 2). Thus adding to its touch of elegance. Indeed, Eigen has a simplistic classy design that should attract most ladies.

However, on the flip side, it meant that guys might not like the smallness. But more importantly, I find that the screen, at 3”, might be a tab too small for usage without the stylus, which I will talk about more in the later part.

LCD Display and S-Class Interface

The new S-Class User Interface (UI) has ‘pages’ like iPod Touch/iPhone (you might find that I refer to it a lot in this post). Basically, there are five pages; Home (above), Widget, Music and Picture, Favourite Contacts and Applications shortcuts. The overall user experience is quite fine except for a few issues that could potentially make LG Eigen a much better phone.

The size of the screen is actually something to consider. LG has a very vibrant and high contrast LCD display but yet the screen size is about 3”. Not that its small, but it is relatively small compared to my iPod Touch which has a 3.5”. And it has made it less impressive when viewing video.

Looking less impressive is a small issue, but the small screen actually makes it difficult to press certain on-screen buttons.

Generally, the S-Class interface is impressive. Its not slow, but neither is it the quickest I have seen. But the overall experience is quite like that of the iPhones or iTouch, maybe not as polished. But I can find nearly everything I need within 1 or 2 layers of the menus except for settings which is not part of the S-Class interface. The icons and menus in the S-Class interface are big enough for me to land my entire thumb but the same cannot be said for those of the setting menus.

For the setting menus, they still appear as in the Windows Mobile style making the issue of small screen is quite glaring. Fingernails have to be called into action rather than the entire finger. A common situation when using the phone is actually exiting a certain menu which requires a touch of the “cross” button on the top right hand corner (like a windows cross). But that particular “cross” is so small that I cant really hit it accurately most of the time. I usually takes about 2 or 3 tries to get it right.

I think LG has probably anticipated the problem, so it has included the optical button to operate as a trackpad (like that of the laptop), where you can bring up the cursor arrow. BUT! The cursor will only work in the window style menus. It will NOT appear in the S-Class Interface. In a way, it makes a lot of sense because is the windows style menus that is contains most of the icons that is really small.

Alternatively, if you are a stylus supporter, then this is absolutely of no issue because there one is bundled with LG Eigen (but the stylus has to be tied to the phone since there is no stylus slot).

The inconsistency of the menu is not that much of a problem in my opinion since its pretty clear when you will want to call up the cursor and when you would just press the buttons.

Speaking of the touch screen, sometimes I do find myself pressing a little harder in order for the phone to register my touch. This should be because LG used a resistive touchscreen for LG Eigen. (Unlike iPhone which uses a Projected capacitance touch). This is a matter more of a personal preference than which is better in my opinion.

The home screen shows nearly everything you want to know and you can slide the icons at the bottom to show more of the remaining icons to the right. Quite useful. The gear is actually the button to call up some of the settings, but when as you progress deeper into the menu hierarchy, you are more likely you see the Windows-style menu as i mention previously.

Lastly, there is also a multi-task page in the S-Class interface. It is also a surprise that it does not really lag too much when opening up several applications.

Other things you might want to know

The biggest complain from me is the proprietary port for charging, audio and USB storage. This is of course a common problem even though manufacturers are beginning to abandon it.

The key lock button is by the right side of the phone making it easy to key lock.

Call quality is good, no worries.

Battery life is pretty normal, I emptied it in about 2 days of usage with some calls, WiFi and videos.

Camera


The five mega-pixels camera is pretty good. But in the world where consumers (including most of my friends), is still asking the megapixel question (ie. “How many mega pixels ar?”), it is not something that is likely to impress most.

Features else, there is no flash, instead, LG has managed to include auto-focus, a feature most welcome, probably more than flash. And of course, the best way to judge a camera is surely the photos themselves.

(Link) – Shot in NTU
(Link) – Shot of my keyboard
(Link) – Night shot in Malaysia.

Applications

The other highlight of LG Eigen is the application store. Like that of the Apple store, LG Eigen can download applications via the LG Application store. (Link) But I thought that could be in another review itself since this one is getting too long!

Package Contents

Final words…

From my perspective, LG Eigen is one of the few phones that has such a strong and focus marketing campaign. While it is still has its own flaws, I think overall, it should provide a more than average user experience.

I will also see LG Eigen as a multimedia phone more than a business one. The major selling points will be its applications-compatibility and the brand new S-Class UI.

But one thing for sure, the dangling stylus is still one factor that can potentially push male customers away from it. And of course there is also the proprietary port.

And it really typifies LG Eigen. a generally stylish, good phone with several nagging issues.

Is LG Eigen GM730 the best Windows mobile touchscreen from LG. I think the answer is 99% affirmative.

Watch this space for the LG application review as well.

Thanks to Sadaf from XPR for the trial and retail sets!

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