Tech : Samsung Dominated Apple And Nokia With A Record 213M Smartphones Shipped In 2012

The battle’s been raging between Samsung and Apple for global smartphone domination, but according to the latest numbers out of Strategy Analytics, Samsung has extended its lead over rival manufacturers to capture a 30 percent marketshare worldwide.
According to the research firm, Samsung’s 213 million smartphones shipped over the course of 2012 sets a record for most units shipped by a smartphone vendor in a single year. The previous record holder was Nokia, which shipped 100.1 million units in 2010.
Samsung’s ability to deliver both on the high-end (with the Galaxy S III and Galaxy Note II) and on the low-end with models like the Galaxy Y made the Korean firm nearly impossible to beat. In fact, Samsung sold more smartphones this year than Apple and Nokia combined.
Apple continued to see growth, despite rumors that iPhone 5 part production cutbacks were a sign of low demand, shipping 135.8 million smartphones worldwide, capturing a marketshare of 19 percent globally. That represents 46 percent annual growth in units shipped, however it doesn’t seem to have done much for Apple’s market share which was at a steady 19 percent in 2011, as well.
Samsung and Apple combined shipped over half of all smartphones that went out over the course of the year.
Nokia managed to hang on to its third place position, shipping 35 million smartphones in 2012. However, the Finnish phone giant’s market share dipped from 16 percent last year to a mere five percent this year. Hopefully the company’s partnership with Microsoft and the budding Lumia line can help in plugging up that leak.

Credit : Tech Crunch

Samsung launches new wired and wireless headsets

Samsung isn't letting CES go by without introducing a few new accessories for its mobile devices. A pair of Bluetooth headsets are on tap, the HM1800 and HM6000 (the latter of which boasts a pair of mics for noise cancellation ) but, oddly enough, it the company's "your sound" wired models that are getting the bulk of the attention. The EHS-60, 63, 70 and 71 all offer a twist on the wired stereo headset model. The high-end 70 and 71 are crafted of aluminum and include welcome features like anti-tangle cords. The most interesting, though, are certainly the asymmetrical EHS-63s which feature an in-ear bud for higher frequencies and an open-air speaker for low-end.

 

Press Release

Samsung Debuts "your sound" Family of Wired Headsets

With Varying Degrees of Audio Features, the "your sound" Line of Headsets Ensures a Premium, Customized Experience for Listeners of Every Lifestyle

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the No.1 mobile phone provider in the United States1, today announced its new family of wired headsets – your sound – a line of four unique headsets designed for listeners to experience music, video, and gaming with exceptional audio quality.

Across all devices, users will experience superior audio, wide frequency performance, in-line audio controls and microphone for placing and answering calls, high-end style, and a comfortable fit. In addition, each headset is built to meet the audio needs of four specific groups of listeners.

EHS-60 "Serious Sound"

With the EHS-60, users will receive quality audio features at an affordable entry price point. Whether classical, rock, hip hop or country, these earphones deliver music in seamless definition when used with a variety of audio devices. The Serious Sound in-ear headset features comfortable gel earbuds that provide background noise isolation while improving audio response. Users can also make and receive calls with the in-line microphone and answer key.

EHS-63 "Active Sound"

The EHS-63 is an ingenious hybrid headset with an impressive array of audio and safety features, designed specifically as an ideal companion for fitness buffs. Featuring a unique dual-speaker design, one open-air and one in-ear, the EHS-63 allows active listeners to safely monitor their outdoor surroundings without sacrificing audio quality. Specifically, the open air speaker gives users improved bass response while the traditional in-ear speaker provides high frequency fidelity, producing optimal conditions for well-balanced high, middle and low tone. In addition, users will enjoy super-soft silicone ear cushions for unparalleled comfort and secure fit, ensuring headsets stay in place, even during high-intensity workouts.

EHS-70 "Massive Sound"

This in-ear, premium wired headset is equipped with Dynamic Receiver Speakers that provide excellent reproduction of high frequencies and volume. Built with a full aluminum alloy body in stylish black and silver, the EHS-70 is perfect for the avid gamer or music lover. Additionally, the headset's anti-tangle cord and super-soft silicone ear cushions make for a comfortable, high-quality audio experience. The Massive Sound wired headset also includes a protective leather carrying case.

EHS-71 "Refined Sound"

The EHS-71 is a superior in-ear wired headset that delivers exceptional noise isolation, accurate, clear natural vocals, detailed highs and deep powerful bass without distortion. Designed for the most detailed listener, musician, or entertainer, Refined Sound features an ultra-micro headset design built with lightweight aircraft aluminum materials. The Refined Sound wired headset also includes a protective leather carrying case, super-soft silicone ear cushions, and an anti-tangle cord.

NEW SAMSUNG BLUETOOTH OFFERINGS FOR 2012

In addition, Samsung Mobile is introducing two Bluetooth headsets this month – the HM1800 and the HM6000.

HM1800

The Samsung HM1800 is a feature-rich mono Bluetooth headset that delivers quality, high-end specifications in a small, minimalist design. Specifically, the HM1800 allows for simultaneous connection to two Bluetooth devices and features advanced audio technology that eliminates annoying pops, echoes and other interference. Additionally, the HM1800 allows for convenient voice prompts and connects easily and quickly to a Bluetooth handset, no PIN required.

HM6000

The Samsung HM6000 is an elegant Bluetooth headset that delivers exceptional sound quality and functionality without clashing with your wardrobe. With its ultra-thin, sculpted metallic shell, textured nuances and smoked chrome detailing, the HM6000 truly looks as good as it sounds. Engineered with Samsung's revolutionary isolāt™ dual-mic noise cancelling technology, users will enjoy clear, crisp audio and optimum microphone positioning to counter unwanted background interference. The HM6000 is packed with high-end features such as mono audio streaming, voice commands and prompts. Additionally, the HM6000 offers text-to-speech functionality through the Samsung FreeSync Android™ application.

1Number one mobile phone provider in the U.S. claim for Samsung Mobile based upon reported shipment data, according to Strategy Analytics Q3 2011 U.S. Market Share Handset Shipments Reports.

About Samsung Telecommunications America

Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets and telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2010 consolidated sales of US$135.8 billion. Employing approximately 190,500 people in 206 offices across 68 countries, the company operates two separate organizations to coordinate its nine independent business units: Digital Media & Communications, comprising Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, and Digital Imaging; and Device Solutions, consisting of Memory, System LSI and LCD. Recognized for its industry-leading performance across a range of economic, environmental and social criteria, Samsung Electronics was named the world's most sustainable technology company in the 2011 Dow Jones Sustainability Index. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com

Tech : Apple's request to block Samsung Galaxy tablet, phone sales in the US is denied

As the legal drama between Apple and Samsung drags on around the world, US District Court Judge has rejected Apple's request to block the sales of Galaxy devices. Reuters reports the ruling came out late Friday, with the judge deciding "It is not clear that an injunction on Samsung's accused devices would prevent Apple from being irreparably harmed,". This isn't the first rejection for the folks from Cupertino either, after a request to speed up the trial was also denied back in July. The case itself will of course go on, but this means you'll still be able to get your hands on those Galaxy Tabs, Galaxy S IIs, and the like in the meantime.

Update: While Apple has yet to comment on the ruling, Samsung has issued an official statement which you can check out after the break.
Samsung:

Samsung welcomes today's ruling denying Apple's request for a preliminary injunction. This ruling confirms our long-held view that Apple's arguments lack merit. In particular, the court has recognized that Samsung has raised substantial questions about the validity of certain Apple design patents. We are confident that we can demonstrate the distinctiveness of Samsung's mobile devices when the case goes to trial next year. We will continue to assert our intellectual property rights and defend against Apple's claims to ensure our continued ability to provide innovative mobile products to consumers.

Tech : Samsung moves to block iPhone 5 in Korea, expands its anti-Apple offensive

This is getting ugly....

Well, since Samsung couldn't get an early peek at the iPhone 5 and iPad 3, the company has simply decided to take a page from Apple's playbook. A senior exec told The Korea Times it plans to file a request to block the sale of the upcoming iOS handset in its Korean homeland the moment the device is announced. According to the Times, the anonymous exec said it would leverage its wireless technology patents and demand that Apple either remove the telecommunications features -- turning the iPhone into an iPod touch -- or simply be banished from the Korean market. The knock-down-drag-out war between the two companies has only seemed to escalate in recent weeks, as Sammy has taken a much more combative and offensive approach.

Cell Phones : Samsung Admire now on MetroPCS shelves, can be yours for $130

Didn't see any budget phones on our Back to School list that tempt you? Perhaps the Samsung Admire (aka the R720) on MetroPCS might make the grade. Launched today -- earlier than its expected September release, we might add -- the Gingerbread-laden handset is being offered for $130 with the carrier's $50 unlimited monthly plan. All in all, it's pretty decent underneath the hood; among the specs are an 800MHz CPU powering a 3.5-inch HVGA display, as well as a 3.2MP camera. It's also taking advantage of a respectable 1600mAh battery, though the battery life is rated at three hours of talk time. Head on over to the source link to do your homework on the new prepaid device.

Cell Phones : Apple sues Samsung again for copying the iPhone's design, this time in South Korea

As if Apple and Samsung's patent infringement catfight weren't distracting enough, Apple is recreating the legal spectacle in Samsung's home country of South Korea. Apple just filed a suit against Samsung Electronics in Seoul Central District Court, with Cupertino alleging that the Samsung Galaxy S copies the third-generation iPhone, according to a report from the online news site, MoneyToday. That closely matches the claims Apple made when it it sued Samsung back in April for "slavishly" copying the iPhone and iPad. Since then, Apple's expanded its case to include additional Samsung devices, including the Droid Charge, Infuse 4G, Nexus S 4G, Galaxy Tab 10.1, Galaxy S II, and a handful of others. Meanwhile, Samsung has attempted (in vain) to subpoena prototypes of Apple's next-gen iPhone and iPad. We wouldn't be surprised if Samsung abandoned its efforts to peek Apple's forthcoming products, but if this is, indeed, destined to be a case of déjà vu, Samsung might well strike back with a suit of its own.

Cell Phones : T-Mobile Sidekick 4G in the wild, made by Samsung?

If these first in-the-wild shots of T-Mobile's upcoming Android-powered Sidekick 4G turn out to be legit -- and we've no reason to doubt them, especially considering TmoNews' track record -- then we'd say the carrier has done a reasonably good job porting the classic Sidekick design and pulling it into the modern age off the strength of a big display... and, of course, a modern operating system. Interestingly, word on the street is that the new model is made by Samsung, not Sharp; historically, Sharp has made all of the Sidekicks with the exception of the forgettable Slide, which was a Motorola one-off. Looks like the swivel display has been replaced by a tilt-slide, but most importantly, the device looks the same when open and closed, which should put a warm, fuzzy feeling in the hearts of old-school Sidekick users.

Cell Phones : Samsung Galaxy Ace, Galaxy Fit, Galaxy Gio and Galaxy mini fill out our Android universe

Samsung's decided that 10 million Galaxy S devices just aren't enough for us, so it's trickling down the brand name, Android OS and TouchWiz UI into some more affordable form factors. In order from left to right, the Galaxy Ace is a 3.5-incher that most closely resembles the S patriarch, though it makes do with an 800MHz processor and HVGA screen resolution. It's said to be available immediately in Russia, to be followed by Europe, India and China soon. The Fit takes us into lower spec territory, with a 3.3-inch QVGA screen and 600MHz speed, while the Gio packs an even smaller display but raises resolution back up to HVGA. The Galaxy mini has to go down as a blatant LG Optimus T KIRF, which might be its sole notable feature, given the 3.1-inch QVGA display and 600MHz capabilities. All three are targeting the same territories as the Ace, meaning the US will likely be spared from this affordable Android whimsy.

View The Official Press Release Below :

Share the Joy of Your Life with the new Samsung GALAXY Smartphones

(SEOUL=Korea Newswire) January 26, 2011 -- Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a leading mobile phone provider, today announced the Samsung GALAXY family: the Samsung GALAXY Ace, the Samsung GALAXY Fit, the Samsung GALAXY Gio and the Samsung GALAXY mini. All offer a unique take on the smartphone experience, expanding the Android™-powered Samsung GALAXY smartphone line-up to the broader consumer market.

Following the phenomenal global success of the Samsung GALAXY S, the new Samsung GALAXY smartphones will meet the diverse demands of current and potential smartphone users. The Samsung GALAXY family shows that smartphones can cater to any lifestyle, with enhanced multimedia and application capabilities as well as a social hub keeping users in touch with friends and family. Each device in the Samsung GALAXY family has been created to meet unique needs and allow users to share the fun and excitement in their lives with friends and family.

Users have access to limitless entertainment possibilities through over 100,000 applications from Android Market™ and Samsung Apps, while quick communication is enabled via QuickType by SWYPE text input. The Samsung GALAXY family comes equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and Social Hub which lets users view their contacts, SNS, IM and email together in an integrated one-page layout, keeping them constantly connected.

JK Shin, President and Head of Samsung's Mobile Communications Business, said, "In creating the Samsung GALAXY smartphone line-up, we wanted to expand on the things that made the Samsung GALAXY S such a runaway success whilst diversifying our product range. Each device delivers something different, with the idea that each user is an individual and wants their mobile experience to be easy and fun. With these four Samsung GALAXY smartphones we help them share the joy they have in their lives and bring their experiences to their friends and family."

The Samsung GALAXY family was inspired by the success of the original Samsung GALAXY S, which has sold an astonishing 10 million devices in just seven months. In designing this family of devices, Samsung has taken the award-winning Samsung GALAXY S and tailored it to meet the diverse and growing needs of consumers. The Samsung GALAXY family will be showcased at the Mobile World Congress from February 14th to 17th in Barcelona.

Samsung unveils i-Functional NX11 mirrorless camera, WB700 with 24x zoom

Just when you thought it'd be a week devoid of notable announcements -- what, with CES less than a week away -- along comes Samsung with two new cameras. The first one is an upgrade to the mirrorless NX10, naturally called the NX11, that boasts a change in grip design and compatibility with the i-Function lens found on the NX100. The other nitty-gritty details for the 14.6 megapixel shooter: a 3-inch AMOLED LCD screen, VGA viewfinder, 720p 30fps HD recording, and an APS-C sensor. Price and date? $649 with a bundled 18-55mm zoom lens, available in February.

In smaller news -- volumetrically, at least -- the 16 megapixel Samsung WB700 sports a 24x zoom (that's 18x optical and 1.3x smart zoom), a 24mm ultra-wide Schneider Kreuznach lens, CCD sensor, and 1080p HD video. You're gonna have to wait a little bit longer for that one -- April, to be more specific -- for a penny under $300.

Samsung unveils i-Functional NX11 mirrorless camera, WB700 with 24x zoom