Two recent announcements by RIM following the recent CES event makes us wonder if they are connected. First, the induction of a new President and CEO Thorsten Heins, and second, the release of an upgraded version of their OS tablet, the Blackberry PlayBook OS 2.0. The pressure to deliver is intense, and as such, the expected date of release of the PlayBook is set for February 17, 2012. And when expectation with every release are high, what else than a new list of “more” and “better. “ That is not it with the OS 2.0. It seems that they will continue to retain and rather than use borrowed concepts, they will be merging and adding to what they already have. That is perhaps well done on their part if they are to maintain their individual identity, but it remains to be seen whether they will be able to guard themselves against the new breed of lesser-known brands, not just the giants.

What is different?

• The email be rich text with multitasking provisions
• The inbox has a new look
• The calendar synchronizes the agenda with contacts and social network sites.
• Documents and other content can be accessed through the Blackberry Bridge
• Improved performance of the BlackBerry Smartphone and PlayBook collectively
• Powerful navigation controls

While blackberry was known for restriction based on their QNX system, the reservations have loosened their hold as they invite Android Apps to be used on their platform along with their own with prior permission from the BlackBerry App World.

For some time, the team had considered the BBM™ application but changed their decision and retain the BlackBerry® Bridge™ instead.  The high security and resolution capabilities that Blackberry services offer remain and there is promise of improved messaging services and high resolution.

The developers are offered to work with the native SDK with the option of a beta version made available recently, which will allow developers easier access and thereby increase apps within the tablet.

There is promise for continued improvement, including the API and removing earlier limitations. They intend to upgrade by centralizing their server and use closed betas at the global level to enhance user friendly features, especially the corporate sector and will include the BlackBerry® Balance for personal and professional purposes.

Of course, no apps would be complete without entertainment. The games offered will be of richer variety and variations, allowing flexibility to game developers to develop native game titles.

The power is no longer in the pen, but in the apps. Note taking was once infamous for the tedious labor involved and its very poor monetary returns. Although the apps technology does not assure increment in salary, it has definitely made life easier especially for note taker journalists, secretaries and diary loggers. Whether one requires documenting for personal or professional use, note taking capabilities have not just met but also exceeded beyond just general note-taking, assuming responsibility as editor and organizer for the user. These time saving apps covering more aspects than is manually possible. The list provided here is not because these apps are exclusive, but also to give a general idea of the range of options available for note taking:

• Evernote: Although released much earlier, the app took time to gain its popularity. Its worth has now been realized as one of the invaluable note taking apps that can easily transferred notes from one computer to another or to any other device that supports the app. Research and recording can be performed simultaneously along with typing the notes. Its text editor saves time and effort while finalizing documents. Its features include photo uploads, organizing through task lists and sharing notes with other users who have the app. Text styles are similar to Microsoft Word and the camera mode assists making new notes and  files can be accessed and shared through the app.
• Catch.com: Its 70 MB storage capacity allows notes and images to be captured visually through Camera Note or through Voice note if used as a recording device, or simply just typing in text with Text Note. It serves as a memory box that will serve to remind tasks and schedules through the alarm. The Hashtime feature organizes disjointed thoughts and which can be searched and sorted through keywords, time or location.
• Jorte: This app is personalized diary and a confidential secretary: a keepsake for those who are on the go and wish to schedules their routine without disarray. The apps prime partner is Google that allows access to Google Maps, calendar and Voice.
• Color Note: For those with aesthetic sense, background colors of the note can be changed. The notes can be saved at any point. This app offers a dictionary, ColorDict as well as the choice to add a widget for reminder purpose.
• Free note, Note Everything: The Android Developer of this app is abiding by the promise to offer almost every kind of feature for the professional note taker: Text, paint, voice, photo, video, calendar, alarm, to do…” It also allows room for creativity where you can use the handwriting styles and combine them with formal text.

Recently an android app was introduced in the market and purchased at a price by users, only to discover the app was barely functional. While the money is currently being reclaimed, it’s hard not to imagine the numerous possibilities that could have caused this failure. No app can be successfully developed if quality is not tended to. That is where the important role of the QA comes in, who ensures the product delivered to the client is in line with the requirements as well as error free. Speaking with a Quality Assurance manager, I was provided information regarding some common minor and major errors that can be avoided prior to publishing the android app.

Navigation errors can occur when Android Developer wish to “push” between two controllers. Or if there is a flow problem, then the application will consequently report errors.

Lack of domain knowledge and ignorance is a common factor and even the most experienced of developers have made the silliest mistakes that can arise from over confidence. They fail to read up on the guidelines given. The android documentation states very specific and clear rules. It is rich information that even beginners can use as a guide.

Language and Syntax. Clients and QAs can relate to this very frustrating type of errors that are found when using Objective C and when they don’t follow the path. QA’s often state the inconsistency in the language used, which ranges from using uppercase letters instead of lowercase, which often happens if there the CAPSLOCK is on. Or a misplaced semicolon following a statement declaration, spelling and grammatical errors. Also, Java language has its particular and limited capabilities, it is crucial to code according to the standard language.

What clients despise most is the lack of uniformity in the text. Failure to test the tools and codes for any reason will definitely result in bugs. This is perhaps the reason why apps continue to upgrade, while they remove the bugs.

Working in isolation does not help. It is important for the developer to socialize and learn from other developers in the field or online through forum discussions. The Android Development Center is highly recommended for android developers to take out time to keep themselves updated with the latest developments.

Finally, inefficiency never pays off nor do attempting short cuts. Spending time wisely, rechecking, and retesting will pay off longer and brighter dividends.

What make Android App Development tick are its fast publishing capability and the free UI. And what android app developers lose sight during this hotshot process is easy access for all, without dealing with issues with regard to reverse engineering and data transfer.

Like all good things, the open source platform has suffered criticism for it being over-friendly for the user and developer when it comes to android apps. As the volume of usage and demand grows, apps are becoming increasingly prone to security pitfalls and victim to cybercriminals.

Android Developers with a conscience understand the importance of quality. Any slip up result in losing the customers and the developer’s reputation through poor reviews.  Even while the developer, such as the Android Application Sandbox, has observed the typical precautions Android application framework and other technologies, it is advisable to run a checklist on networking, when storing data, using internal files, cryptography and codes such as Native.  Special pointers are:

1.      It’s a good idea to test the app with all the OS versions available to ensure its compatibility, reduce APIs and where possible avoid storing data. In case where data is required, the decision should be based on which server or operation to perform the access.

2.      One of the common errors by android developers also lies with reading, writing and sharing permissions through ContentProvider. It is advisable to restrict the number and kind of permissions to control the data.

3.      Ensure a clean file sharing location. Despite strong support from celebrities and popularity, megaupload.com received the order to close by the government after they were found guilty of online piracy and infringing copyright laws. Turns out the website contained several android apps too: a red alert for App Developers to double check where they are allowing file sharing.

4.      The Linux based security system, which acts as mediator between the hardware and software components, should be kept foremost while developing an app. Otherwise, the user will have just as quickly uninstalled the app before there is time to fix errors. Replace Linux DAC (Discretionary Access Control) with SE Linux Mandatory Access Control) MAC. This makes it more complicated for the user than the typical app, as there is less flexibility and access. Its ability to detect suspicious malware and virus infected apps makes for high security usage and has been tried and tested by the National Security Agency. The SE Android can be obtained through the Android Open Source Project (AOSP).

The models are cat walking on the mobile ramp. The little screens are streaming world’s leading fashion shows and designer wear right in the palm of the hand. The fashion savvy no longer have to worry about missing an event, or a style. Top designers are keeping pace with technology, exhibiting their latest creation through Mobile Apps.  Among them are Dolce&Gabbana who have been the talk of the fashion industry since their Fall/Winter 2010/11 Women’s Fashion Show on the android and the iPhone mobiles.  The app is free and requires registration on their website live.dolcegabbana.mobi. Competing alongside is Hugo Boss, who has done some heavy-duty marketing to promote his brand on the Smartphone. The fashion blog content and products viewed on the mobile are intended for the younger generation and have introduced Foursquare that is currently focused on the Berlin Fashion Week that is offering giveaway prizes as an added attraction.

Of course, Apple has to be in on whatever’s trending and have a bite of their share too. They offer free fashion apps for the iPad and iPhone that can be stored and shared with other social networks. Some of Apple’s latest collaborations with fashion include:

• The New York Times app sponsored by Ralph Lauren, which showcases videos and products for sale from the Ralph Lauren Magazine.
• Catalog Spree features more than a 100 fashion catalogues of branded casual and formal wear.
• VIZL has fashion alerts and virtual models for size and fit selections.
• Lookaroo is a photo app that can take pictures anywhere and auto store them.
• Zegna Live app steams live fashion shows by Italian designer Ermenegildo Zegna and financial transaction can also be made through the app.
• Snapette features the latest range of shoes and bags from around the world and show you stores within your neighborhood.
• Stylebook is a paid app where you can borrow styles from leading magazines and custom design it yourself through its editing capabilities.

It doesn’t end here. With innumerable fashion events across the globe, an award category has been dedicated exclusively to mobile fashion films by A Shaded View on Fashion Film (ASVOFF) an International Fashion Film Festival. This shows the direction in which the fashion scenario is heading, with mobile usage forecasted to outnumber laptops and tablets. Even as their expensive designs are meant for a selected niche, designers have prioritized viewership by quantity and understand the importance of publicity.

While the options are ten times more for laptops and tablets, there isn’t half as much for mobile security. Although they may not be the perfect protection solutions, the limited choices are worth having. Unless you want to tae kwon do your way out and risk losing your phone and life, the android smartphones have found a smart way to deal with software security as well as hardware protection.

After the initial loss of losing an expensive gadget, there is long-term regret about the lost data: contacts, addresses, apps, pictures and worst of all your personal and financial information. No matter how foolproof the app, you can’t go wrong if you safeguard through your own efforts as well. Lock the phone with a password, remote locate lock and wipe through a security app, install and keep security and scans updated and download apps from  well known companies.

Choosing a safety net

High security places such as for the Department of Defense secure their intra mobile messaging by combining reception via satellite with cellular services. Good Technology recently devised email access, including internal mobile messaging, in a secure manner via the Smartphone using the Microsoft Exchange server, thus allowing the liberty to use android phones in restricted areas. Data can be wi ped out remotely in case of theft. The software will be further optimized through the Secure Android Partner Program.

The corporate sector in particular, has their own concerns regarding email and file safety stored on the mobile.  Reviewers suggest mobile carriers can manage if given more leverage in security, but vendors are reluctant to provide that flexibility without having to compromise their own services. RIM (Research In Motion) will be launching Mobile Fusion that can l remotely lock and wipe data by the company’s IT department.

Other individual choices include Lookout Mobile Security that has been around for sometime and still worth its while. It helps locate the phone through the GPS and has an anti theft alarm. It guards against mobile viruses and automatically saves the phone’s data in its system that allows sole access to the phone’s owner. Android’s Ice Cream Sandwich is renowned for its Face Unlock feature that does exactly that: the user’s face is the code used to lock and unlock the phone. Should that fail, a code may be typed in for access as an alternate option.

Given a choice, would you rather commute long distance on a cold winter day, stand behind a long queue and then watch the sign on the shop window turn from “sale” to “sold out?” Or just tap your fingers around and get the exact item in a matter of seconds?  Time is crucial especially when seasonal sales are on. What’s more, the variety seen in the glimpse of an eye is incomparable to how much you can view on foot. That’s what tech does—eases your life and if you don’t avail it, then let’s says you are not taking advantage of the 21st century. With so much variety at your fingertips, these apps can help decide which best fits your budget. While you are at it, be sure to check the price at the store before finalizing the purchase from your mobile.

1.    Amazon Mobile By AMZN Mobile LLC

Designed for the iPhone and iPad, Amazon Mobile app, it is ideal if you want to check and compare prices of items on Amazon.com. It has the ability to take a picture through SnapIt, scan the product’s barcode. You can also read reviews to help decide whether the product is right for you. Additional options include compiling a wish list or choosing the item to be “gift wrapped.”

2.    Flow Powered by Amazon By A9 Innovations, LLC

Another innovation by Amazon, simply point the phone’s camera to the product or its barcode and the app scans and provides product details including previews, which can be shared on Facebook or Twitte and can be purchased through Amazon.com. The app stores search history and organizes it item, date or location wise.

3.    Coupon Sherpa Mobile Coupons By Coupon Sherpa, LLC

Designed for iPhone or iPod Touch. “Hundreds” of in store and exclusive coupons offered for a broad range of items, these coupons are scanned at checkout from the mobile, with the option to print them or pass them to a friend. GPS maps helps find the nearest store where the coupon can be availed.

4.    Shopkick By shopkick

It works like this: Walk into a store, tap ‘nearby’ and look for a green bubble icon, which represents kicks. Pop it and earn rewards such as vouchers, gift cards and Facebook credits. Scan the barcode of the product and purchase it through debit card. Kicks vary on daily basis and the smaller the size of bubble the greater the points. The more you shopkick, the higher your rewards.

You really don’t have to stop the music anymore. The abundant tech apps offer limitless options not just in tracks, but just about every possible related information. Music buffs who want to backtrack , listen to the latest or find out what is up and coming in the music world, or be a musician, these are some latest upgraded versions, both paid and free mobile music apps featured to suit every mood.
1.    Animoog By Moog Music Inc

A built-in studio with modules where you can synthesize, mix and program music according to your style. It is user friendly, so you don’t have to have technical expertise to maneuver the multiple sounds and melodies. Although there is a user’s manual available on the website, a Help menu will benefit beginners. Hopefully, the next version. This is a paid app designed for iPad.
2.    iHeartRadio By Clear Channel Management Services, LP

With 800 live radio stations and over 11 million songs that can be customized through email account, the soundtracks can be shared via Facebook Timeline. A free app that works with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.

3.     Shazam By Shazam Entertainment Ltd

The next time you are sitting in a restaurant and a familiar tune is playing. Just rack Shazam’s brain. All you need to do is put the speaker as interface in front of the music medium and tag it. The app will provide details about the song, including its lyrics. You can purchase the song or share it with friends. A free app that works with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.
4.    JamBase  By JamBase

You can watch live music from anywhere. If you don’t want to miss out a concert, this is the app which will tell you who is performing where.  Just create a profile or feed in your location and it will inform you of  music event is taking place in your neighborhood, including what is up and coming events from its extensive database. A free app that works with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.

5.    Adaptunes — Speed-based Volume Control By Alpha Acid LLC

This app has outdone AdaptLite. The slogan is very apt too: “When you go faster, the music gets louder.” More suited for vehicles and sports, the app prevents music from being drowned out in a noisy environment.  The music continues playing even after you have closed the app. Wouldn’t you like to find out what it sounds like when you crawl. Costs USD 0.99 and designed for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad.

Writing has become a lot more fun with Emoticons than the usual, carefully thought out sentences edited for punctuation and grammarL.

Emoticons, or the Japanese version Emboli, convey where words cannot and even complement the content. They have become increasingly popular in personal as well as business communication. Try sending out a tirade of instructions via IM to your subordinate and include emoticons—the message will sound less patronizing and the employee may feel happily productive. Using emoticons also eases communication among clientele speaking different foreign languages.

Mobile phones have kept pace, introducing sophisticated graphics that have surpassed the typical smileys. Noteworthy emoticons include:

1. Mimbo, a friendly robot

Created by Instructorless, Mimbo is a plain-looking cardboard cutout joint together, with iPhone as its face. He can imitate the user’s facial expressions by processing them through the TouchOSC Interface. Instructables has generously provided step-by-step instructions on how to create one of your own robots using the iPhone 3GS or iPhone 4/4s with Touch OSC and Face OSC technology.

2. Hipchat

This paid app within Hipchat’s private instant messaging services for small, medium or large business enterprises includes iPhone and iPad apps. You can customize your own emoticons from a wide range of characters, celebrities or the usual variety. The service is currently offering four free of cost emoticons for those who will refer a friend to use the service.

3. ‘Hidden’ Emoticons

For the aesthetically inclined, Windows 7.5 has recently introduced a whole set of emoticons which are able to turn text into icons, even when they are not visible on the menu. Compatible with iPhone and iPad, the emoticons are similar to those on Windows Live Messenger.

4. Emoji Free

Introduced by Apple, Emoji Free emoticons is, as the name implies, free of cost, has over 460 icons and requires use of the built in Emoji keyboard. The other way to use it is with Emoji Tumble, which is to either touch or tap the screen twice or move the device.

5. Emoji keyboard shortcuts on iOS 5

Thanks to some very active individuals who share their learning on the web, there is a far more convenient way to text and email for iPhone users. By creating a shortcut, Emoji icons can be set up without having to leave the message application. The initial step requires enabling the keyboard from the Settings tab. Next is to set up the Emoji keyboard from the General Settings tab, where you can organize Emoji icons on the keyboard as you wish.

Siri is the answer to the perfect secretary: the virtual personal assistant app acts as guide and confidante, follows through with instructions, is available 24/7 and still will not ask for a salary raise. Available on Apple’s iPhone 4S, it uses artificial intelligence to process and interpret human voices via wireless networks such as Wi-Fi and 3G as well as within the phone’s dual core A5 chip.

If you are using Siri for the first time, start by letting it get to know you. The process is simple—

1. Select ‘Siri’ from the general settings.

2. Click on ‘My Info’

3. Keep the ‘Home’ button pressed until 2 beeps are heard and the icon is lit.

4. Start talking and Siri will do the rest.

You can either tap the mic twice or hold the phone up to the ear to re start the conversation or if there is too much noise in your surroundings. Once it has learned to recognize your voice, it will be able to identify it, provided there is not too much noise. It is programmed to understand and speak 3 languages: English, German and French. It has the ability to recognize most dialects and accents.

What Siri does

Siri will get to know and understand you just as a new friend does. Within a short span, it will have acquired knowledge about you by asking questions regarding family friends, and lifestyle choices. It will keep asking questions as it records your information. When it has not understood, it will continue to question you until you have received a precise answer. These are just some of the things that Siri does:

Browses the internet

Takes dictation and sends emails: VoiceOver serves the visually impaired

Provides alternate suggestions

Uses maps to locate

Answers calls

Performs action on almost all apps within the iPhone at your instruction

Organizes and schedules your appointments as well as serve as a reminder

What makes Siri feel slightly more humane than any other artificial intelligence app is its sense of humor. Whether it was intentionally programmed is something Apple has not commented on, but the responses will perk you up on a boring day. Some of Siri’s popular responses:

• Human: I need to hide a body

Siri: What kind of place are you looking for? (A drop down menu displays the options).

• Human: I want to kill myself

Siri displays a drop down list of mental institutions.