Samsung Electronics Launches the World’s First PCs with NAND Flash-based Solid State Disk

Press release: SEOUL, Korea – May 23, 2006: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., the leader in digital media technology, will release the world’s first PCs embedded with a 32-Gigabyte (GB) NAND flash-based solid state disk (SSD). This marks the first time that NAND flash has moved into a commercial mobile computing application and is a breakthrough that will pave the way for replacing hard disk drives with NAND flash-based memory disks.

The Samsung Q1, an ultra-mobile computing device and the Q30, a 12.1-inch screen notebook PC, will be available in the Korean market from early June.

The two new SSD-enabled PC offerings are designed for optimal portability and resolve many of the traditional challenges of mobile computers. The data in flash memory are much more secure against external shocks that can occur when transporting a mobile computer. The SSD can withstand about twice the impact that would cripple a regular hard disk drive. In addition, stored data can be more easily retrieved from flash memory than traditional hard drives when PCs are dropped or liquid is spilled on the device. These mobile computing devices are the ideal solution for professionals and executives who are constantly on the move.

The SSD reads 300 percent faster (53MB/s) and writes 150 percent quicker (28MB/s) than normal hard drives. As a result, multiple application programs can operate simultaneously and large volumes of data can be edited and reproduced more efficiently.
The Microsoft Windows XP operating system will boot up 25-50% faster on the SSD than on other drives—good news for those in a hurry. Moreover, the typical 1.8-inch hard disk drive weighs around 50 grams; whereas the SSD is 20 to 30 grams lighter, depending on the package type.

The typical notebook PC will generate around 30dB of operating noise, while the Q30-SSD will operate in complete silence. This is an unprecedented feature for people who want to use their PC in a library or other places where noise is not allowed.

The Q1-SSD will show video or still photos as well as play audio without having to be booted up first. This “instant on” feature provides access to multimedia content such as digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) TV at least 30% faster than with a portable multimedia player (PMP).

DMB TV receivers are embedded in both PCs, which will bring extra enjoyment to users during this summer’s World Cup competition.
“PC models based on solid state disks have numerous advantages over traditional hard disk-based models. These include faster booting, greater durability, quieter operation, and increased battery life. The new Q30-SSD and Q1-SSD models are only the beginning. Samsung will continue to lead the market, introducing new portable PC models that bring these benefits to both consumers and enterprise users.” said Kim Hounsoo, Executive Vice President of the Computing Division of Samsung Electronics. The retail price for the Q1-SSD will be KRW2.3 million (US$2,430), while the Q30-SSD will sell for KRW3.5 million (US$3,700).

The Sony Ericsson V630i exclusively with Vodafone

Press release: LONDON 23 May 2006 - Sony Ericsson today announces the V630i, exclusively for Vodafone. The V630i uses its 3G capabilities to deliver the perfect mix of mobile phone, music and multimedia applications at high speed and superb quality.

What makes this phone extra special is its support of Vodafone’s new Radio DJ service, an innovative, interactive music streaming service that allows the creation of your own music channels by rating tracks as you listen. The more you listen and rate, the more intuitive and personalized the music channel becomes. Tracks can also be bought directly using the service and, with the supplied 256MB Memory Stick Micro™ (M2™) card, the V630i can store as many as 230 tracks to take with you wherever you go. A stereo headset is supplied, so you can enjoy this superb choice of music in full stereo quality.

The V630i also effortlessly handles the content-rich services from the world of Vodafone live! with 3G such as Mobile TV, video messaging and video telephony. In all, the V630i is a dynamic phone that is fun to use, appealing to young music lovers seeking the freedom and choice offered by the latest mobile technologies.

“The V630i is a phone that will bring music, 3G and Vodafone live! with 3G to a wider audience,” says Jan Wäreby Corporate Executive Vice President, Head of Sales and Marketing, Sony Ericsson. “It’s the perfect device to get the best out of Vodafone’s 3G services such as Vodafone Radio DJ. With live video streaming, super-fast web browsing and gaming, you couldn’t ask for more fun out of a mobile phone.”

With Vodafone’s Radio DJ you can use your phone to tailor-make music channels, buying and downloading songs from the current music programme direct to your phone. The V630i combines its 3G capabilities with innovative Sony Ericsson technology to ensure a fast, responsive service with excellent audio quality.

"Combining Vodafone's advanced 3G services such as full track music downloads and Vodafone Radio DJ with Sony Ericsson's know-how in music phones delivers a superior customer experience," said Jens Schulte-Bockum Director of Terminals, Vodafone. "Vodafone Radio DJ gets to know customer's tastes over time. It is as easy as listening to the radio but on a mobile which always plays your favourite songs."

The V630i handles all of the key download formats, so you can import music via a PC from a variety of music services or from your own CD collection. It is provided with with a 256MB Memory Stick Micro™ (M2™), for new generation, highly compact mobile storage.

The sound quality of the V630i is so good you’ll want to share your music with friends, and the MPS-60 portable speakers are a perfect boost for the music stored in your phone: just plug them into the V630i and play! Or enjoy your music through your own Hi-Fi with the MPP-60 Music Power Pack, which plugs your phone into your Hi-Fi while it sits in a cradle recharging. For the full home Hi-Fi experience, try the Home Audio System MDS-70, a neat phone cradle which connects to a set of high performance speakers. Developed by Sony Corporation and Sony Ericsson, the MDS-70 delivers superb sound quality thanks to Sony S-Master, the hi-fi technology that gives a full, rich sound to all types of products, from car audio systems to TVs.

Everything about the V630i supports the fun-loving, youthful lifestyle. Its sporty design is Vibrant Black with neat orange highlights that pick out direct keys and the loud speaker on the back of the phone.

Simplicity in design is also applied to the user interface, which gets you around the phone with the minimum of clicks. Accessing the music player is a single click away no matter what you’re doing thanks to the dedicated music hard key; and rocker keys reach your favourite applications immediately.

Beyond music, the V630i features a 2 Megapixel camera with digital zoom, consumer email, a full HTML browser and an extra large, 1.9” colour display. Business-friendly applications include PC-synchronisation, tools and software. And for those wanting to take calls easily whilst on the move there’s a full choice of bluetooth enabled headsets.

The Sony Ericsson V630i is a UMTS 2100 device exclusively for the Vodafone Group and rollout is planned across EMEA and APAC from June.


For reviews and specifications please visit Sony Ericsson cell phones

Nokia unveils first range of next generation mobile games

Press Release: Six games titles for Nokia's new mobile gaming platform debut at E3 2006

Los Angeles, CA, USA- Nokia showcases its first range of next generation mobile games at the 2006 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3). Visitors to the Nokia N-Gage booth are the first to experience demos of the new games coming to a range of Nokia Nseries multimedia computers and other Nokia S60 devices, including: Creatures of the Deep, ONE, Pocket Aces, Pro Series Golf, Space Impact and System Rush: Evolution.

"Nokia is redefining current mobile games benchmarks by offering top quality games on a range of devices," says Gregg Sauter, director of games publishing, Nokia. "Whether you have a few seconds to make a catch in Creatures of the Deep or a few minutes to fight to the top in ONE, we make it easy and convenient to get and play great quality games on your Nokia device."

All Nokia N-Gage games for the next generation platform have been designed specifically for mobile devices, where multiplayer gaming and community gaming features via the N-Gage Arena come as standard.

In addition to showcasing the first set of next generation mobile games on a range of Nokia devices, the Nokia N-Gage booth will feature previously announced games such as Mile High Pinball, Habbo Islands and Shadow-Born. The new games line-up includes:

Creatures of the Deep
Creatures of the Deep takes you on a fishing adventure like no other. Travel through some of the world's most exotic angler destinations, cast your line and catch boatloads of fish, sea creatures, and underwater items to store in your virtual live-well. The single player career mode will challenge you with dozens of quests as you freely roam the expansive fantasy and real-world fishing destinations. Sense the subtle bites on your lure with vibration feedback. Also, E3 visitors are invited to take part in the "Catch the N-Gage Fish" contest for the chance to win a 6-night/4-day fishing package for two at the Crocodile Bay Resort in Costa Rica.

ONE - Who's Next?
In 2004, ONE set the standard for graphics performance in mobile games. Developed by Digital Legends Entertainment, ONE now brings the global fighting community and Nokia Nseries multimedia computers together. The sequel shown at E3 2006 features more advanced graphics, including real-time reflections, light glow and game play at 30 frames per second. Controls and playability are also pushing the boundaries, including adaptable controls and all new scenarios, some designed for landscape mode gaming. The graphics are best appreciated live at the Nokia N-Gage stand, booth #900 in the South Hall.

Pocket Aces: Texas Hold'em
Nokia ups the ante with a mobile version of this Sin City staple - Pocket Aces: Texas Hold'em. This poker game in your pocket lets you wager, raise the stakes and bluff your way to the top, or hit rock bottom - against friends and strangers alike. Single player and multiplayer Pocket Aces offers online tournaments, online head-to-head match ups, and rankings. Winnings in Pocket Aces have real value; players create their own gambler identity and use their winnings to customize their fully 3D avatar. In addition, the avatar learns the user's poker strategies, and eventually becomes capable of playing on it's own!

Pro Series Golf
Do you have what it takes to compete on Pinehurst No. 2? Want to tee up alongside the historic views at the links of Doonbeg? Play Pro Series Golf, the most expansive multiplayer-mobile professional golf game ever, where you can challenge your friends or golfers around the world via the N-Gage Arena. Play as one of six professional golfers including Sergio Garcia, KJ Choi, Retief Goosen, Annika Sorenstam, Colin Montgomerie and Casey Wittenberg, and drive your way to victory.

Space Impact
This addictive Nokia arcade franchise flies to the next generation. You can customize your fighter with various weapons and battle more than 30 unique enemies, including explosive ballistic cannons and deadly energy leeches, while navigating across 10 action-packed levels. Dodge enemy projectiles to increase your power meter, or unleash devastating combo attacks. Win the missions to earn money and buy upgrades between battles. More than 30 different ship parts can be used to trick out your Skyblade. Collect extra upgrades by completing missions, or acquire exclusive power-ups from the N-Gage Arena.

System Rush: Evolution
Chase, shoot and fly your way to freedom in Nokia's most distinctive futuristic interactive 3D racing game sequel. System Rush: Evolution - the latest and most visually stunning racing game to appear on a mobile device takes place in an authoritarian planet-wide "lock down", where players are pitted against new network defenses and hacker bosses. The player possesses a new form of experimental technology to shatter the 10 newly installed network "firewalls" and prove to the corrupt governments that the flow of information will never be halted. Our hero is 'hardwired' into the system, effectively becoming a part of the network.

Visit the Nokia N-Gage stand, situated in the South Hall, booth #900 to be the first to experience the new games available. Also, for more information about the Nokia N-Gage presence at E3, please visit www.n-gage.com/e3.

Media can download logos, screenshots and more from the Nokia N-Gage E3 press site. Visit
www.extranet.n-gage.com with the following username: ngageate3 and password: assets4me.


Here you can download mobile games for Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, Sony Ericsson and other phones.

Nokia 6131 camera phone now shipping

Slim style, superior usability and 16 million color display hallmarks of quadband phone

Press release: Espoo, Finland, May 04, 2006 - Nokia has started deliveries of the Nokia 6131 phone, a sophisticated and stylish camera phone that offers powerful feature set, including a 1.3 megapixel camera and a superb 16 million color display. The quadband Nokia 6131 will be coming to shops across Europe, Asia, Africa and select Latin American countries. A version for North American markets, the Nokia 6126 will also be available during the second quarter of this year.

"The Nokia 6131 offers everything in balance - superior usability and top performance in a desirable, slim design. We are confident that Nokia 6131 will be a highly appealing choice for consumers who want a stylish phone that doesn't compromise on features, quality and ease-of-use," says Aage Snorgaard, Senior Vice President, Mobile Phones, Nokia.

Easy to hold, simple to use
Reflecting the balance between style and comfort, the slim lines and top-quality materials of the Nokia 6131 make it pleasant to the eye and the touch. This sophisticated phone pays careful attention to ergonomics, both in its compact, folding design and elegantly spaced keypad with clearly separated keys, which makes dialing and messaging quick and easy.

The smoothly curved model fits naturally in the palm of a hand, and the soft-touch black finish makes the phone comfortable to hold. Adding a special touch of convenience, the Nokia 6131 includes a unique push-to-open button - the phone gently opens at the press of a button, offering convenient one-hand messaging, dialing and answering calls.

Capture the moment, enjoy music on the go
The vibrant 16 million true color display in the Nokia 6131 phone makes text and icons incredibly sharp and brings images to life. The brilliant display complements the 1.3 megapixel camera, making capturing, viewing and sharing images easy. For additional fun, video clips captured with the phone's video recorder can be used as video ring tones on both internal and external displays.

Enjoying music on the go is also easy with the Nokia 6131 as the phone includes a built-in digital music player and FM stereo radio. Captured moments and favourite music can be stored on the optional hot-swappable microSD memory card, offering storage for a wide selection of images or music files.

The Nokia 6131 also offers a powerful set of features ideal for business use, including email with attachements, Bluetooth technology, quadband functionality and fast browsing and downloads with EDGE.
A full list of features is available at www.nokia.com/6131

Pictures of the Nokia 6131 phone are available at www.nokia.com/press


For reviews and specifications please visit Nokia cell phones

A 7-inch WVGA, Single-Chip LCD for Mobile Devices from Samsung

Samsung Electronics Develops 7-inch WVGA, Single-Chip LCD for Mobile Devices

Press release: Seoul, Korea – May 2, 2006: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., the world's largest provider of thin-film transistor, liquid crystal display ( TFT -LCD) panels, announced today that it has developed the industry's first amorphous silicon (a-Si) seven-inch, single-chip TFT-LCD panel that reproduces colors in high resolution (WVGA-level, 800×480 pixels).

The seven-inch LCDs are mostly used in mobile devices including DMB (digital multimedia broadcasting), PMP (portable multimedia players) and CNS (car navigation systems), and normally require 4 to 7 drive ICs(integrated circuit). Also, on a conventional seven-inch LCD panel, the T-con (time controller that drives the screen), power platform and other components typically are attached to a circuit board on the exterior of the LCD. The complexity of this integration point has been a major obstacle to slimming the package profile of mobile LCD devices.

The new single-chip design, with a contrast ratio of 400:1 and a brightness level of 450 nits, uses Samsung's unique ASG (amorphous silicon gate) technology. The ASG incorporates the Gate-driver IC function directly on the surface of the glass panel, while simultaneously integrating the T-con function within the Drive-IC. In the single-chip design, the surface area of the drive circuit and the number of components that it contains are each one-third less than that used in existing WVGA panel designs.

With the new single-chip LCD, Samsung can support the trend toward thinner and simpler mobile devices, while decreasing the overall circuit development and production burden for set builders by combining the functionality of multiple digital components.

Senior Vice President Hyung-Gul Kim, of the LCD Mobile Display Development Team says, “Samsung Electronics has successfully challenged the generally accepted idea that a high degree of circuit integration using amorphous silicon (a-Si) is prohibitively difficult. With our new seven-inch WVGA LCD prototype panel, dramatic improvements in LCD design are not only prudent, but also quite feasible using this highly reliable a-Si approach.”

The one-chip seven-inch WVGA panel will be first publicly displayed during the first week of June at the SID (Society for Information Display) Symposium, Seminar and Exhibition at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco.

Technical Data: 7” WVGA LCD PANEL
Display Size: 7.0"
Resolution: WVGA(800 ×480 pixel)
Mode: a-Si
Display Type: Transmissive
Brightness: 450(nits)
Contrast Ratio: 400:1
Colors: 16,700,000
Color Saturation: 50%
Viewing Angle(Top/Bottom/Left/Right): 45/50/60/60
Power Consumption: 300mW


For news, reviews and specifications please visit Samsung cell phones