Nokia XL goes on sale in Malaysia

Nokia XL offers a better-designed way to enjoy a world of apps

29 May 2014, Kuala Lumpur. Nokia XL, part of the new Nokia X family of affordable smartphones that run Android™ apps, has begun selling in Malaysia. The new device is the perfect introduction to the world of Android apps, coupled with great design, an intuitive user interface, and the most popular Microsoft services.

The Nokia XL boasts of unmatched quality and design, with a fresh, tile-based user interface inspired by our Lumia family. It comes with Fastlane, a screen which lets people switch between their favorite apps more smoothly. People can access curated, quality-tested apps from Nokia Store, more than a dozen third-party app stores and by sideloading. All devices are also pre-loaded with a variety of very popular third-party apps and games.

“We believe this unique combination will resonate with consumers around the world and set a great precedent for the level of quality that can be achieved in the fast-growing, affordable smartphone segment.” said Gary Chan, Head of Marketing Microsoft Devices, Pan Asia.

Out of the box, they can enjoy quality experiences including free HERE Maps, with true offline maps and integrated turn-by-turn navigation, and MixRadio for free music streaming and downloadable playlists. The Nokia XL is also an affordable introduction to popular Microsoft services, including free cloud storage using OneDrive.

With the purchase of the Nokia XL smartphone in Malaysia, people will get one month of Skype’s Unlimited World Subscription for a limited time, ideal to make international calls to landlines in more than 60 countries and to mobile phones in 8 countries.

Nokia XL: big, bold and beautiful
The Nokia XL is the premium offering in the Nokia X family. Boasting a 5” display, 5MP rear-facing autofocus camera with flash, and 2MP front-facing camera, it is the ultimate choice for big-screen entertainment. The Nokia XL features the same performance boost as the Nokia X+ but on a larger format. People can also take advantage of the larger screen size, front- and rear-facing cameras to get the most out Skype video calls and video apps like Vine.

The Nokia XL features two screens: home, which features a fresh, tile-based design and Fastlane. Fastlane is a dynamic record of how people use their phone, day by day, moment by moment. It captures everything people love: they need only to swipe once from the homescreen to access Fastlane, see a record of recent activity, and switch between their favourite apps, smoothly. Fastlane has been completely re-imagined for the Nokia X family. People can return a missed call by calling or texting, accept or decline calendar invitations, or control the music player – all from within the Fastlane view. Fastlane is also more customizable and social-friendly than ever. People can select what appears on their Fastlane feed, read notifications from their social networks and update their status from within Fastlane, making the experience even more productive.

New LINE stickers for @NokiaMY followers
In conjunction with the sales start of Nokia XL in Malaysia, Nokia and LINE will be releasing a set of free stickers on LINE, featuring Gempak Starz’s popular comic characters in “Lawak under 18”.  To download these stickers, users will need to follow Nokia Malaysia’s LINE Official Account (ID @NokiaMY).

Product specifications and availability
The dual Sim Nokia XL is now available at all Nokia stores and authorized resellers for RM599 (RRP)

McAfee offers FREE instant protection Scan for mobile apps that overshare personal information

New Release of McAfee Mobile Security Enables Android Users to Instantly Check for Apps That Use Extensive Data Collection Techniques

Singapore – May 22, 2014 – Today McAfee, part of Intel Security, announced the latest version of McAfee Mobile Security that now enables consumers to instantly run free privacy and security scans.  These scans allow users to identify apps that are oversharing personal information. It also scans for and removes malware and looks for other security threats. McAfee makes it simple for users to perform these scans as soon as the product is installed. McAfee Mobile Security also allows users to easily remove apps that pose significant risks.

According to McAfee’s Consumer Mobile Security Report, 80% of mobile apps today collect location information about users, 82% know the device ID, and 57% track when people use their phones.  Additionally, the apps that aggressively and often unnecessarily collect data leverage potentially dangerous ad libraries, and 35% of these apps contain malware.

“Smartphone users download apps so regularly that it is easy to forget how these apps collect information – at times even putting its users at risk,” said David Freer, Vice President, Consumer – APAC at McAfee, part of Intel Security. “Keeping this in mind, McAfee Mobile Security helps users better protect their personal information and inform them of the kind of information their apps have access to.”

McAfee Mobile Security’s privacy scan provides key intelligence about the apps users have installed on a smartphone or tablet.  The scan determines how much information each app is able to access and share, then ranks them by level of privacy sensitivity, while also checking for risky URL associations.  When an app behaves significantly different than others in its category, the level of risk is raised and reflected in its privacy sharing score. At the conclusion of the privacy scan the user can uninstall suspicious apps with one-click.

The most worrisome permissions are apps that read users’ subscriber ID from their smartphones and tablets, anything that gets users’ precise location (as opposed to Wi-Fi network or cell tower), and anything that reads or tracks text messages that can contain private messages and information like online banking transaction authorizations.  To provide a deeper level of protection, the new version of McAfee Mobile Security instantly scans Android apps, files, SD cards and Internet downloads for malware using a method optimized for mobile to be light on resources and battery life.

McAfee Mobile Security
McAfee Mobile Security for Android is designed to prevent privacy invasions, data loss, identity theft and lost or stolen devices.  It includes anti-theft, antivirus, app protection, Web and Wi-Fi protection, along with call and SMS filtering. In AV-Test’s most recent effectiveness test for mobile security products, McAfee Mobile Security received a 100% detection score for the second time this year and was given a top ranking among the 30 vendors that participated in the independent test.  McAfee Mobile Security can be downloaded for free from the Google Play Store.

Effective Measure unveils Mobile Survey and Measurement solution

Real-time research results available via new Apps for iOS & Android

Melbourne, Australia: 14 May, 2014 – Effective Measure (EM), a leading provider of digital audience, brand and advertising effectiveness measurement, has unveiled a new mobile offering designed to provide businesses with deeper understanding of their growing mobile users. This new EM Mobile offering provides audience profiles and survey capabilities across mobile users plus the ability to measure, evaluate and monitor the power of campaigns across all handsets and mobile devices.

Additionally, the measurement solutions specialist has announced the availability of a new mobile and tablet ‘Effective Measure App’ which offers clients real-time accessibility to their survey and campaign related data.

As part of significant on-going investment into a growing product suite, Effective Measure has integrated a new HTML based survey platform which will deliver the capability to launch surveys across all mobile devices, phones and tablets running on iOS, Android, Windows or Blackberry.

The EM mobile survey capability offers advertisers deep insights into the demographic profile, behaviours and attitudes of the mobile audience. The solution also offers detailed analysis of mobile campaigns and the ability to target the most valuable audience using profiling and engagement tools. By gaining specific device–led demographic insights, marketers can then prepare and deliver highly targeted, device matched communications which are funnelled to a finely tuned audience on whichever screen they may be on.

“Reliable mobile measurement has emerged as one of the most significant issues in digital advertising. Supporting mobile functionality and campaign engagement insight in addition to integrating data seamlessly from all platforms and creating powerful new metrics is core to Effective Measure’s solution,” said Effective Measure Group Director- Media, Tony Eustace.

Significantly, EM’s mobile survey data and custom research is now available via an exclusive Mobile App which allows clients to see real-time survey responses and manipulate and forward them directly from their device. The ‘Effective Measure App’ is available for download via the Apple and Google App stores.

“Every part of the customer journey produces valuable data and marketers that are able to get the most comprehensive analysis of that digital migration will be the ones that can create the most compelling campaigns and media strategies across all screen and platforms,” Eustace added. iphone-ten

The new Effective Measure mobile survey capabilities solve the complexities of scale and provide robust measurement tools to map out mobile campaign’s effectiveness and impact in relation to other channels. Clients will be handed the tools to profile their mobile audience and compare it with both desktop audience exposure as well as competitor’s performance across these platforms.

Key metrics including unaided and aided awareness, brand recall, familiarity, impression, trial, influence, purchase likelihood and net advocacy scores are all available through the solution.

“The insights into the attitudes and behaviours of mobile customers will bring a profound new data set to our global clients. By understanding the profile of the audience on mobile versus computer, as well as against their competitors, demonstrates the layers of rich data that will further fuel campaign innovation across all screens, providing unprecedented targeted marketing capabilities for the Industry,” Eustace said.

For more information on EM Mobile, please visit: www.effectivemeasure.com/em-mobile

Kaspersky Lab’s Solution for Android-based Devices Proves its Effectiveness in Independent Testing

Petaling Jaya, April 29 - Kaspersky Internet Security for Android earned top marks in the independent testing of mobile security products conducted by AV-Test in March 2014. Kaspersky Lab’s solution successfully blocked all threats and its performance received the highest rating from the test lab.

AV-Test experts analyzed how effective the products from different vendors were at protecting against mobile cyber threats by testing them with 2,266 malware samples that were active at the time of testing. The products were also assessed for the number of false positives generated and their impact on performance, battery life and web traffic.

A total of 31 solutions were tested. During testing, the products used their default settings and were allowed to update their antivirus databases, use all available protection tools and query their in-the-cloud service. All products were tested on Android 4.3.

Kaspersky Internet Security for Android identified and neutralized 100% of the malware samples, compared with a 95% average score for all the participating solutions. It produced zero false positives and did not have any appreciable impact on the resources of the mobile device. This earned Kaspersky Internet Security for Android a score of 13 points out of 13, and a “Certified” award.

“The main task of a mobile security solution is to secure user data from cybercriminal actions and prevent the device from turning into a source of spam or other cyber attacks. When a user chooses a solution, its impact on the device’s performance often becomes a major factor. So it is important that a security product for smartphones and tablets ensures high-level protection against cyber threats and, at the same time, does not affect the user experience.

The AV-Test study has demonstrated that Kaspersky Internet Security for Android fully meets this requirement,” said Viktor Chebyshev, Mobile Threat Research Group Manager at Kaspersky Lab. Kaspersky Lab’s security solution for Android devices has repeatedly been hailed by independent testing laboratories. In January this year PC Security Labs awarded the product a first place in the Android Malware Detection Test for demonstrating high-level protection against mobile cyber threats.

Nokia X launched in Malaysia

Nokia X offers a better-designed way to enjoy a world of apps

Kuala Lumpur, 5 March 2014 – Nokia today announced the launch of Nokia X, part of the new Nokia X family of affordable smartphones that run Android™ apps, in Malaysia. This new device is the perfect introduction to the world of Android apps, coupled with signature Nokia experiences, and the most popular Microsoft services.

The Nokia X features Nokia’s renowned quality and design, with a fresh, tile-based user interface inspired by our Lumia family. It comes with Fastlane, a screen which lets people switch between their favorite apps more smoothly. People can access curated, quality-tested apps from Nokia Store, more than a dozen third-party app stores and by sideloading. All devices are also pre-loaded with a variety of very popular third-party apps and games.

“We believe this unique combination will resonate with consumers around the world and set a great precedent for the level of quality that can be achieved in the fast-growing, affordable smartphone segment.” said Gary Chan, Head of Marketing, Pan Asia, Nokia.

“We are happy to be one of the first countries to launch the much anticipated Nokia X”, said Dick Yoong, Country Manager Malaysia and Brunei, Nokia. “The Nokia X would be a great device for Malaysians with Fastlane, signature Nokia experiences and a number of third party apps, in addition to a sturdy and attractive build at an affordable price.”

Out of the box, users can enjoy signature Nokia experiences including free* HERE Maps, with true offline maps and integrated turn-by-turn navigation, and Nokia MixRadio for free music streaming and downloadable playlists. The Nokia X is also an affordable introduction to popular Microsoft services, including free cloud storage using OneDrive.

With the purchase of Nokia X smartphone, people will get one month of Skype’s Unlimited World Subscription for a limited time, ideal to make international calls to landlines in more than 60 countries and to mobile phones in 8 countries.

Nokia X: an affordable introduction to the X family 
The Nokia X, a beautifully crafted smartphone with Nokia’s signature design approach and bold, bright colours. At only 10.4mm thin, the slim, durable monobody design features a 4” scratch-proof IPS display and exchangeable back covers that come in a variety of statement colours. Inside, the device runs on the Nokia X Software Platform and is powered by a1Ghz dual core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor.

The Nokia X features two screens: home, which features a fresh, tile-based design and Fastlane. Fastlane is a dynamic record of how people use their phone, day by day, moment by moment. It captures everything people love: they need only to swipe once from the homescreen to access Fastlane, see a record of recent activity, and switch between their favourite apps, smoothly. Fastlane has been completely re-imagined for the Nokia X family. People can return a missed call by calling or texting, accept or decline calendar invitations, or control the music player – all from within the Fastlane view. Fastlane is also more customizable and socialfriendly than ever. People can select what appears on their Fastlane feed, read notifications from their social networks and update their status from within Fastlane, making the experience even more productive.

Product specifications and availability
The Nokia X will be available next week in the Klang Valley and a week later for the rest of Malaysia at a RRP of RM399. The Nokia X will be available in bright green, bright red, black and white.

The Nokia X device can be pre-ordered starting today at all Nokia Stores and on StoreKini. Devices preordered from Storekini from now till 31st March will be entitled to a free gift worth over RM50.

Nokia debuts on LINE
Nokia Malaysia’s official account on the LINE platform, NokiaMY, will go live today. In conjunction with the launch of Nokia X and Nokia Malaysia’s official account on LINE, 50 units of the Nokia X will be given away as prizes. Consumers can participate in this contest and win these devices by downloading the LINE app from the Nokia Store and following NokiaMY on LINE to get the clues for the tasks through the app itself.

“As one of the country’s leading mobile messaging app, we are pleased to partner with one of the industry’s pioneer brands in the mobile space. Our partnership with Nokia will enable rapid expansion for LINE in South East Asia and strengthen our user base within Malaysia and the region. We are excited to be a part of this launch, introducing the brand new Nokia X, continuing the cutting edge legacy of its predecessors. We are confident that our association with Nokia will reinforce LINE’s position as the preferred multiplatform instant messaging service among consumers” said Wind Koh, Advisor to LINE Malaysia.

Nokia Malaysia and LINE will also organize a campus outreach program across 10 campuses in Malaysia. Through this program, students will be able to experience the Nokia X, and LINE apps and characters.

Students can also experience Microsoft services such as Outlook.com, Skype, as well as Nokia Services such as MixRadio and HERE. Line and Nokia will also offer exclusive “stickers” for fans on the Nokia account.

Additional specifications for the Nokia X:
 4’’ capacitive touchscreen
 1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon Dual Core Processor
 512MB RAM
 3MP camera
 Dual SIM
 Up to 32GB expandable memory
 1500 mAH battery
 Satellite GPS
 Accelerometer
 Available colours: Bright Green, Bright Red, Black and White

Kingston Ships Dual Interface USB for Android Smartphones, Tablets

• DataTraveler microDuo Provides Additional Storage for Mobile Devices
• Share Larger Files Between Smartphones and Tablets Over USB
• Free Up Valuable Space on Devices

Hsinchu, Taiwan – March 5, 2014 − Kingston, the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the launch of the DataTraveler® microDuo. A small form factor combination USB and microUSB Flash drive, DataTraveler microDuo allows consumers to expand the storage of their Android™ tablets and smartphones.

DataTraveler microDuo uses the microUSB port on devices – often used for charging – to expand storage up to 64GB. This is especially helpful as more and more smartphones and some tablets come without a microSD card storage expansion slot. The drive can be used with any USB On-The-Go compatible device and the dual interface allows users to transfer files without plugging into a PC*. Smartphones and tablets shoot hi-res photos and HD video, and with some devices now shooting 4K video, consumers can easily move large files, photos, videos and music off the device to free up space just like a normal Flash drive.

“DT microDuo is a great companion device to mobile phones or tablets as it lets users back up files on the go thus freeing up space, or share files between devices with ease,” said Nathan Su, Flash Memory Sales Director, APAC Region, Kingston. “Its sleek design has a built-in key loop and rotating cap, so it is small in size and big on storage. Travelers can take entire libraries of music or videos with them on trips without worrying about filling up the memory on their own device.”

For a list of compatible devices visit www.kingston.com/otg/compatibility. DataTraveler microDuo is available in 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities and is backed by a five-year warranty, free technical support and legendary Kingston reliability. For more information visit http://www.kingston.com/en/usb/personal_business#DTDUO.

Kingston DataTraveler microDuo Features and Specifications:
• USB OTG (On-The-Go): a standard which enables host functionality in certain phones/tablets with microUSB ports, enabling connectivity to USB devices like Kingston’s DT microDuo
• 2-in-1: microUSB and USB 2.0 connectors for easy transfer of files between smartphones, tablets, and computers
• Plug-and-Play: simply connect as you would a standard USB Flash drive
• Convenient: ultra-small, pocket-sized design for easy transportability
• Capacities**: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB
• Interface: USB 2.0
• Dimensions: 27.63mm x 16.46mm x 8.56mm
• Operating Temperatures: 32°F to 140°F (0°C to 60°C)
• Storage Temperatures: -4°F to 185°F (-20°C to 85°C)
• Warranty/support: 5-year warranty with free technical support

*File manager app required for file transfer. Free ES File Explorer available for download on Google Play™.
** Some of the listed capacity on a Flash storage device is used for formatting and other functions and thus is not available for data storage. As such, the actual available capacity for data storage is less than what is listed on the products. For more information, go to Kingston’s Flash Memory Guide at kingston.com/flashguide.

LINE Theme Shop Released for Android Devices!

-Customize your chat screen with favorite LINE characters, as well as Hello Kitty and Rilakkuma!
-LINE messenger is now available in Firefox OS Marketplace for greater global reach! 

KUALA LUMPUR – February 6, 2014 – LINE, the world’s leading mobile platform with 340 million users, today released the Theme Shop for its Android version to enable users to customize their LINE chat visuals.

Since first introduced in June 2013, the LINE Themes have been downloaded more than 200 million times by LINE users around the world to add a personal touch to their chat settings with the favorite LINE characters, Cony and Brown.

The new Theme Shop adds more variety to the user’s choice of themes to offer Sally and Leonard LINE character themes for 150 LINE coins. It will also add Hello Kitty and Rilakkuma themes in the near future, with plans to expand its lineup of popular characters. Users can also purchase themes from the LINE Web Store (http://store.line.me) and send to their LINE friends as a gift.

In a separate development, LINE has continued to expand its global reach and is now available globally on Firefox Marketplace. In Malaysia, users can now enjoy LINE on the platform.

LINE will continue to customize its features and advance accessibility for all users around the world to enjoy its unparalleled mobile platform services.

PayPal Looks Ahead: Six Predictions for 2014

By David Marcus, President of PayPal

As the President of PayPal, I have a unique opportunity to work with peers and strategise with partners across many industries about solving real problems and delivering exciting new experiences for consumers and retailers. That leads to a pretty privileged view into what’s coming next. I have had some fascinating conversations about how technology is transforming shopping experiences, leading to my prediction of 6 main developments for 2014:

1. Traditional retail fights back
In recent years, technology innovation from companies has disrupted traditional retail by making it easy for consumers to browse in a store and then buy online at the cheapest possible price. It’s a practice called “showrooming” and in-store merchants understandably hate it. This year, retailers will start leveraging and converting their retail footprint into logistical assets to enable shoppers to buy anywhere they want: in-store, on mobile, and on the web, and get fast-delivery, or pick-up in store the same day. Local will be more important than ever – and from our perspective we couldn't be more excited about innovations like PayPal Beacon which will transform the retail environment for your local main street by bringing back opportunities for personalised service all driven by mobile.

2. Mobile will transform commerce forever
Many consumers are just beginning to experience the freedom, flexibility, and fun of mobile payments and shopping, and they’re going to want more. This will lead to a flood of new payment experiences built on technologies such as sensors, geolocation, and the cloud that will soon make standing in a long checkout line and paying with a card seem like something out of the Stone Age.

3. iOS and Android will drive a retail revolution
Last year, I predicted the beginning of the end of the fixed-location cash register in favour of mobile checkout technology. In 2014, I believe the entire retail infrastructure will follow suit. In less than four years since the launch of the iPad, tablets have become a fixture of our everyday lives. This year, they’ll become a standard tool in retail environments too, and merchants will use them for everything from Point of Sale to inventory, fulfilment, customer relationship management, and more.

4. Bitcoin will continue to gain ground (but not as a currency)
Bitcoin will continue to attract more people as a store of value and a speculative investment asset. I predict that the value of Bitcoin still has the potential to double this year, but I believe it will have a hard time becoming mainstream as a currency, due to its expected continued volatility amidst regulation authorities and governments figuring out what to make of the cryptocurrency.

5. The year of disruption . . .
I love disruption - it’s when rules get broken and new ideas are born and tested that things get interesting. This trend has been gathering momentum over the last year or so as smaller players in the payments industry power a wave of startups that use mobile payments to fuel segment-transforming new business models. (Full disclosure: PayPal recently acquired Braintree, which provides the payment technology engine behind disruptive startups like Uber, Airbnb, and OpenTable.)

In 2014, people will be seeing larger payments entities scramble to accelerate the pace of their innovation to catch up to these smaller and more nimble competitors. Meanwhile, smaller players will scramble to achieve the scale and experience needed to compete in a global business. As a result, billions of dollars will be at play in the payment industry, and 2014 will be a year of game-changing disruption.

6. . . . and consolidation in the payments industry
The payments industry has a lot of players, and no doubt there’s a ton of great innovation out there, but a lot of it works better in combination than on its own. Some of today’s bright young firms will never achieve the scale to survive without joining forces with someone bigger. This will lead to a wave of acquisitions in 2014. Meanwhile, new alliances will create intriguing partnerships that span payments, retail, and more. It simply won’t be the same industry in 12 months that it is today.

So that’s where I see payments headed in 2014. Whether you agree or disagree with my thought starters, I think we can all agree that this industry is in the midst of incredible and exciting change right now. It’s going to be an amazing ride over the next 12 months.

AMD and BlueStacks Collaboration Brings Full Android OS Experience to Windows PCs

BlueStacks Virtualized Android Solution Optimized for Fourth Generation AMD APUs Enables Users to Enjoy a Full Android Experience on Windows-based tablets, 2-in-1s, notebooks and desktops

MALAYSIA, Kuala Lumpur — Jan. 6, 2013 – AMD (NYSE: AMD) today announced a new milestone in their collaboration with BlueStacks, a joint solution that brings the complete Google™ Android OS experience to Microsoft® Windows- based tablets, 2-in-1s, notebooks and desktops. Optimizations for the fourth generation AMD APU in BlueStacks provide a complete, Android user interface and extensive support for Android apps for entertainment and productivity.

“Windows and Android are both mature operating systems, each satisfying the needs of millions of users,” said Steve Belt, corporate vice president, Product Management, at AMD. “Users whose devices and preferences span the two ecosystems no longer have to face device-specific restrictions on the benefits of one ecosystem or the other because AMD and BlueStacks have created a seamless user experience between the operating systems.  Now users have access to all the apps -- games, communications and content consumption -- they love on their Android mobile devices right at their fingertips, while getting important productivity tasks or high-end PC gaming accomplished on their Windows PC.”                                

The new version of BlueStacks running on a Windows PC powered by fourth generation AMD APUs offers:
• A familiar Android user interface, including settings, configuration and customization controls;
• The ability to run Android apps within a window or at full-screen resolution leveraging direct access to AMD graphics processing power;
• Support for hundreds of thousands of Android apps direct from various Android app stores, as well as synchronization between the same apps being run on the user’s stand-alone Android devices; and
• Seamless interoperability through direct file sharing that enables Android apps to access files stored within the Windows file system.

“We’re working with AMD to build the next great PC and AMD’s industry-leading hardware allows for a more flexible experience with Android apps on the PC for end-users,” said Rosen Sharma, CEO, BlueStacks. “AMD shares our vision of Mobile Plus in providing users with easy access to their favorite Android games, mobile apps and productivity tools from all their devices and moving towards a more open/shared ecosystem.”

Unlike traditional “dual-OS” systems, which require the user to disengage from one OS before using another, the AMD and BlueStacks solution runs Android virtually within Windows. AMD APUs are designed to deliver far greater processing power than the smart phones for which Android apps are generally developed, and should provide more than enough performance to support the typical Android app’s requirements, providing a very satisfying user experience.

The latest version of BlueStacks allows consumers to sync Android apps from a mobile device to a PC with FoneLink, a cloud-based service that enables an AMD Windows-based PCs to become an extension of Android mobile devices and vice versa.  BlueStacks also adds support for AMD virtualization hardware so that multiple operating systems and their applications can run simultaneously on the same computer.

MAKING YOUR 2014 RESOLUTION COME TRUE: NEW MOBILE APP MAKES QUITTING SMOKING FUN AND EASY

Smoking cessation coach QUIT PRO now available for Android and iOS

SINGAPORE, 2 January 2014 – At the end of each year, people make resolutions to try and be better, either by starting to do something good or stop doing something harmful. With 2014 just starting, why not resolve to kick a bad habit and usher in a smoke-free new year in a smart(phone) way?

Quit Pro is a mobile-based app that helps monitor an individual’s journey and progression towards their goal of quitting smoking. This week, Singapore-based mobile apps factory Bitsmedia introduced the Android version one year after launching in the Apple Store.

Since being launched first for iOS a year ago, Quit Pro has already helped more than 130,000 smokers kick the habit:  “Great app to help you quit smoking and track your progress. Would highly recommend it for anyone who is trying to quit”, shared one user.
   
Screenshots from the Quit Pro app: Smart, easy to follow and helpful
Through its user-friendly interface, Quit Pro helps to easily track and tabulate information about when smokers crave for a cigarette, along with what moods or emotional triggers might lead to smoking.

Quit Pro also has a social feature that allows sharing your progress with friends, monitoring either how long a person has quit for or how much money has been saved not buying cigarettes.

Another Quit Pro user commented: “This app has helped me a lot! When I have a craving I look at my counter & think ok I've made it this long I can make it 5 more minutes! I'm 9 days in with no relapse! My family has been great too!”

Other features of Quit Pro include identifying places that users smoke most at and also highlighting the benefits that quitting smoking has in terms of financial and health impact. You can find out more about the functionalities of Quit Pro on http://www.quit-pro.com/video

Quit Pro is available on Google Play and Apple App Store for free with an optional premium version to access additional content. Bitsmedia will give 5% of the proceeds of this app to cancer research.

DiGi says Thank You to customers with special year-end sale

Customers to enjoy free devices, internet and calls with DiGizens Thank You Sale and new MyAndroid offerings

Shah Alam, 12 December 2013 – As a big Thank You gesture to its customers, DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd (DiGi) today announced the DiGizens Thank You Sale, a special year-end sale with amazing deals that enable customers to enjoy free smartphones, tablets, modems, calls and internet with DiGi.

According to Loh Keh Jiat, DiGi's Head of Channels & Regions, the company was looking for a unique and sincere way to express its appreciation to loyal customers when it decided to introduce the DiGizens Thank You Sale. And for the first-time, has DiGizens personally bringing the special deals to customers. “As we physically go to the streets each year to engage our customers in person, this time you will also see DiGizens ‘coming out’ to say thank you across all our marketing channels, from broadcast, print, online advertisements, leaflets and more.

(L-R) : Praveen Rajan, Head of Products - Internet & Services, Loh Keh Jiat, Head of Channels & Regions and Cheng Weng Hong, Head of Retail & Controlled Channels.

“All of us in DiGi want to thank our customers for their support throughout the year. For believing in and being patient with us as we built a stronger network for them, which is now in place largely due to the honest feedback our customers across Malaysia have given about its performance.” Loh said that DiGi’s customers have also voiced their preference for better and more relevant internet services, and this has driven the company to develop its digital service and partnership portfolio with global internet players like Facebook, Whatsapp, Deezer and Viki, to give customers more meaningful ways to use the internet. “Our customers continuously push to make us better, and we believe they deserve only the best with DiGi this year-end.”

DiGi’s Thank You gesture will provide customers with many free Internet For All deals from now while stocks last, through the following customised offerings:

• Available with DG Smart Plans:
o Free Smartphones when customers sign-up for DG Smart Plan 88 and 148, applicable for a slew of Android smartphones including the Samsung Galaxy S4, Note II, HTC One, Sony Xperia C & Z, and more.
o Free Internet when customers purchase RM25 internet quota top-ups, and get 2GB instead of the usual 1GB.
o Free Calls equivalent to 300 minutes more when customers sign-up for DG Smart Plan 88.
o Free 1,000 Bonuslink points for sign-ups of any DG Smart Plan, applicable for the first 2,000 customers.
o Free Unlimited Skype calls to 63 countries for 30 days.
o Free 1 month Tablet Plan with any DG Postpaid plan subscription.

• Customers can also enjoy the following deals without a contract: a free Android Start tablet with the new DiGi Tablet Plan at only RM45 per month, and a free modem when signing-up for a DiGi broadband bundle.

DiGi also unveiled its second MyAndroid Hub at the Gardens Mall today, continuing to deliver its Internet For All ambition by meeting its customers Android needs. Teaming up with Google, this dedicated space within DiGi Stores offers customers an Android-specific retail and learning experience, to discover Android’s popular mobile services, devices and apps, and complementary DiGi plans in a fun and interactive way.

In conjunction with the Thank You sale, DiGi will be introducing special ‘Internet Weekends’ at its MyAndroid Hubs. Beginning 28 December, customers can walk into any MyAndroid Hub to learn about navigating their Android devices and accessories, latest Android apps from Android gurus and local developers and more for free.

The special 30-minute sessions will be hosted twice a day, every Saturday and Sunday at the MyAndroid Hubs in the Gardens Mall and Sunway Pyramid DiGi Stores, and will also be complemented by special all-day discounts on selected accessories only at these stores on these weekends.

DiGi’s first MyAndroid Hub retail space is situated at the DiGi Store in Sunway Pyramid. Customers can expect to see DiGi Stores with MyAndroid Hubs in Perak and Johor by January 2014, with a total of six Hubs nationwide by the first quarter of next year.

“We hope our customers will enjoy a greater mobile internet and retail experience this year-end with the special deals from our DiGizens Thank You Sale and new MyAndroid Hub ‘Internet Weekends’, from selecting their smart devices and plans to getting the best out of their device and internet,” Loh concluded.

To enjoy amazing deals from the DiGizens Thank You Sale, please visit http://digi.my/thankyousale or get more information on DiGi’s MyAndroid experience at: www.digi.com.my/myandroid.

Dell Software Extends Mobile Workspace Security and IT Operational Agility with New Mobility Offerings

• New Dell KACE K1000 GO mobile application empowers in-field, real-time endpoint management 
• SonicWALL secure mobile access solutions now embedded with Windows 8.1 
• Dell Wyse Cloud Client Manager adds secure management of iOS 7 smartphones and tablets, as well as for Dell’s hardened Android devices 
• New modular mobility consulting service focuses on mid-market customers

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Nov. 26, 2013 – Dell Software today introduced new mobility solutions designed to help customers better support increasingly mobile workers while minimizing security risks and IT complexity. Faced with a deluge of mobile devices, companies today are struggling to transform physical workplaces into “digital workspaces” that enable employees to be more productive and efficient without overburdening IT teams.

To extend IT operational agility, Dell is introducing a new Dell KACE endpoint systems management solution for performing real-time, in-field systems management from a tablet or smartphone. In addition, Dell SonicWALL is further extending its secure mobile access capabilities to address the needs of mobile workers while elevating the protection of corporate systems and data from mobile threats. Dell also is updating Dell Wyse Cloud Client Manager to support secure cloud-based management for additional devices, and launching a set of modular mobility consulting services for mid-market customers.

“As part of Dell’s focus on delivering end-to-end enterprise mobility solutions, we’re supplying customers with innovative hardware, software and services to help them plan, deploy and manage new workspace models,” said Han Chon, director for Asia-Pacific and Japan, Security and Endpoint Systems Management, Dell Software. “Our latest mobility offerings and security enhancements are important steps in giving mobile employees reliable and secure access to the information and resources they need while empowering IT to bring it all together in an efficient, cost-effective manner.”

Improving IT Agility with New Dell KACE K1000 GO mobile application
According to the VMWare New Way of Work Study 2013 study, seven in ten respondents in Malaysia value technological mobility in their role and 85% bring their personal computing devices to work. [1] As the rate of mobile device use in organizations increases, so does the need for IT to address an expanding range of device diversity issues. According to Forrester Research, Inc., employees use many different devices, from desktops (85 percent), laptops and netbooks (63 percent) to tablets (21 percent) and smartphones (48 percent)[2]. As such, IT must embrace new support models and mobile-enabled tools to secure, manage and maintain devices that don’t fit naturally into traditional service and support structures.

With the release of the Dell KACE K1000 GO app for Android and K1000 GO app for iOS devices, Dell Software frees IT administrators from the shackles of typical help desk and systems management support tools with mobile access to the powerful capabilities of the Dell KACE K1000 Systems Management Appliance. The Dell KACE K1000 GO app allows IT admins to access the K1000 from their mobile device, so they can review and respond to service desk notifications while away from their PC, prioritize and expedite problem resolutions, and deploy software more easily and efficiently.

New agile systems management functionality of the Dell KACE K1000 GO app includes:
• Real-time alerts of ticket events through push notification to Android and iOS devices
• Streamlined workflow for creating, escalating and resolving trouble tickets
• Drill-down, detailed systems inventory to rapidly identify dependencies and root causes
• “On the fly” software distribution to accelerate updates

Taking Secure Mobile Access to the Next Level with Windows 8.1, Android and iOS Support
With new secure mobile access enhancements from SonicWALL, Dell Software can help customers meet demands for broader access to mission-critical applications, data and resources from a multitude of devices. As part of Dell’s keen focus on Connected Security, the latest release of the Dell SonicWALL Mobile Connect™ application is now pre-installed on all Windows 8.1 tablets and laptops, which extends Dell’s secure access capabilities to more mobile device and laptop platforms, including Windows, iOS and Android. Dell Connected Security gives organizations the power to solve their biggest security and compliance challenges today—from the endpoint to the data center to the cloud—while helping them better prepare for tomorrow by mitigating risks to enable business.

As part of delivering end-to-end mobility solutions, Dell SonicWALL Mobile Connect is pre-installed on Dell’s recently announced Venue line of tablets, which comprises four new ultrathin models designed to address the changing way people live and work. The new Venue 8 Pro and Venue 11 Pro Windows 8.1-based tablets combine the level of performance, design and responsiveness end-users want, while giving IT departments what they need – the ability to integrate into an existing corporate environment with full compatibility with current Windows applications and Microsoft Office integration.

The Mobile Connect application, in combination with the newest version of the Dell™ SonicWALL™ E-Class Secure Remote Access (SRA) for enterprise appliance, provides mobile and remote workers using managed or unmanaged smartphones, tablets or laptops with simple, policy-enforced access to critical data without compromising security. The new E-class SRA release v10.7.0 also provides an at-a-glance dashboard to streamline management of remote access status, and simplify access to more mission-critical applications, corporate web sources, file shares and client server resources.

Dell’s secure mobile access solution for iOS, Android and Windows 8.1 tablets and laptops enables:
• Secure SSL VPN connection and granular, policy-enforced access control to resources
• Context-aware authentication to restrict access to authorized users and trusted devices
• One-click access to authorized corporate applications and resources
• Centralized policy administration for efficient management

Secure Cloud-Based Mobility Management Expanded to iOS 7 and Dell’s Hardened Android Devices
Dell is helping organizations take advantage of the native enterprise management and secure productivity updates of i0S 7 by expanding Dell Wyse Cloud Client Manager, its cloud-based secure client management software, to include support for iOS 7 smartphones and tablets. Additionally, the mobility management solution now will support Dell’s Android hardened devices, offering management of enterprise policies for those devices, including the ability to lock down and customize access to local and remote applications.

Dell Wyse Cloud Client Manager provides a single, intuitive console that enhances the visibility and control IT teams have over company and employee owned smartphone, tablet and client devices. Administrators can support, configure, monitor and secure devices and thin clients over the air from virtually any location, as well as manage access to company applications and content.

Mobility Consulting Services for the Mid-Range Market
For mid-market organizations that need help defining a mobility technology roadmap, Dell is launching a set of modular Mobility Consulting Services to streamline the planning process. These services are initiated with an analysis of customer needs based on in-depth interviews across the organization, resulting in the development of a mobility roadmap that takes into account both current and future operational landscapes.

The new Mobility Consulting Services are flexible and scalable, letting organizations leverage a tailored blend of services to meet individual mobile strategies and device platform requirements. Current available modules address Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Mobile Content Management (MCM).

Availability:
• Dell KACE systems management appliances, Dell SonicWALL Mobile Connect and Dell E-Class SRA are available through Dell channel partners. Dell Wyse Cloud Client Manager is available immediately, and interested organizations can sign up for a free 30-day trial of the solution’s full functionality online.

THE HTC ONE GETS SUPERSIZED WITH THE HTC ONE MAX

World’s best smartphone now in 5.9” with new and improved HTC Sense 5.5 ® experience

Malaysia, 21 November, 2013 — HTC, a global leader in mobile innovation and design, today announced the HTC One max, a super-sized smartphone that brings the award-winning design, functionality and performance of the HTC One to fans of larger handsets. A new Fingerprint Scan feature takes convenience to a new level while acclaimed features including HTC BlinkFeed™, HTC Zoe™ and HTC BoomSound™, combined with the new HTC Sense 5.5, which are all enhanced to continue to deliver the best overall smartphone experience, now on a larger screen.

“The addition of the HTC One max means that we now have an HTC One phone for everyone. The family has been built on quality and game-changing innovations and the HTC One max is certainly no exception,” said Peter Chou, CEO of HTC Corporation. “The upgrade to HTC Sense 5.5 will provide our most amazing mobile experience yet, with the HTC One max delivering the size and power required to do everything you want, and more, without compromise.”

Big and powerful
The HTC One max’s 5.9” full HD1080p display is perfect for enjoying photos, videos and movies on the go. Smooth and efficient performance comes courtesy of a quad-core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 600 processor featuring a quad-core 1.7 GHz CPU enabling jaw-dropping performance, ultra vivid videos and booming sound. Whether you’re watching videos in stunning HD, playing games or checking out what’s hot online, the HTC One max sounds amazing, looks sharp and keeps working when you need it.

The 16GB or 32GB onboard memory can be expanded thanks to a microSD™ card slot, with a massive 50GB of additional free Google Drive online storage being offered exclusively to HTC One max owners .

The large 3300mAh embedded battery means that this level of performance will last and last. Even the most intensive users will find the HTC One max is up to the challenge thanks to the optional HTC Power Flip Case, a stylish 1200mAh battery expansion for your HTC One max which offers both protection and extra juice when you need it most.

Maximum convenience at your fingertips
The average person checks their phone multiple times a day, so the HTC One max welcomes a new era of convenience and advanced functionality thanks to a built-in Fingerprint Scan feature. Located on the back of the device, the fingerprint scanner allows users to lock or unlock the screen and quickly launch up to three favourite applications by assigning an individual finger to each.

More content than ever before
The HTC One max’s Sense 5.5 upgrade comes with a more social, personalised HTC BlinkFeed that can be further refined by customisable topic categories and new integration with premium content providers including Instagram and Google+. Up to 120 articles can also be downloaded for offline viewing, making BlinkFeed even better for snacking on information wherever and whenever you are.

Ultimate imaging
Featuring HTC’s UltraPixel camera technology, HTC Zoe mode, that brings your photos to life, and a 2.1MP front-facing camera, the HTC One max will capture stunning photos and full HD 1080p videos whether you’re the photographer, the subject or both. Dual Capture means you can now snap memorable moments and your reaction to them in one extraordinary photo or video by simultaneously shooting with the front and rear cameras.

Improved imaging is also introduced through Video Highlights, which combines your photos and videos to create a mini movie complete with the soundtrack and visual theme of your choice. And with the HTC One max, your Video Highlights can now be any length you want .

Design at its Best
Available in Glacial Silver now, and Stealth Black in late December, the HTC One max shares the same premium design credentials as the rest of the HTC One family, providing an all-round exceptional experience.

Global Availability
The HTC One max will available in Malaysia at all HTC retailers and selected mobile operators at RM2,499 from next week onwards.

MCAFEE LABS SEES NEW THREATS SUBVERTING DIGITAL SIGNATURE VALIDATION

Third Quarter Threats Report Identifies Android Malware That Bypasses App Validation as Signed PC Malware Continues to Surge; Bitcoin Popular in Illicit Trade and Cybercrime

SANTA CLARA, Calif. / SINGAPORE — Nov. 21, 2013 – McAfee Labs today released the McAfee Labs Threats Report: Third Quarter 2013, which found new efforts to circumvent digital signature app validation on Android-based devices.

The McAfee Labs team identified a new family of mobile malware that allows an attacker to bypass the digital signature validation of apps on Android devices, which contributed to a 30 percent increase in Android-based malware. At the same time, traditional malware signed with digital signatures grew by 50 percent to more than 1.5 million samples. Less surprising but no less daunting was a 125 percent increase in spam.

“The efforts to bypass code validation on mobile devices, and commandeer it altogether on PCs, both represent attempts to circumvent trust mechanisms upon which our digital ecosystems rely,” said Vincent Weafer, senior vice president of McAfee Labs. “The industry must work harder to ensure the integrity of these technologies given they are becoming even more pervasive in every aspect of our daily lives.”

The third quarter also saw notable events in the use of Bitcoin, for illicit activities such as the purchase of drugs, weapons, and other illegal goods on websites such as Silk Road. The growing presence of Bitcoin-mining malware reinforced the increasing popularity of the currency.

Weafer continued: “As these currencies become further integrated into our global financial system, their stability and safety will require both the financial monetary controls and oversight, and the security measures our industry provides.”

Leveraging data from the McAfee Global Threat Intelligence (GTI) network, the McAfee Labs team identified the following trends in Q3 2013:

• Digitally signed malware. Digitally signed malware samples increased 50 percent, to more than 1.5 million new samples. McAfee Labs also revealed the top 50 certificates used to sign malicious payloads. This growing threat calls into question the validity of digital certificates as a trust mechanism.

• New mobile malware families. McAfee Labs researchers identified one entirely new family of Android malware, Exploit/MasterKey.A, which allows an attacker to bypass the digital signature validation of apps, a key component of the Android security process. McAfee Labs researchers also found a new class of Android malware that once installed downloads a second-stage payload without the user’s knowledge.

• Virtual currencies. Use of new digital currencies by cybercriminals to both execute illegal transactions and launder profits is enabling new and previously unseen levels of criminal activity. These transactions can be executed anonymously, drawing the interest of the cybercriminal community and allowing them to offer illicit goods and services for sale in transactions that would normally be transparent to law enforcement. McAfee Labs also saw cybercriminals develop Bitcoin-mining malware to infect systems, mine their processing power, and produce Bitcoins for commercial transactions. For more information, please read the McAfee Labs report “Virtual Laundry: The Use of Digital Currencies in Cybercrime.”

• Android malware. Nearly 700,000 new Android malware samples appeared during the third quarter, as attacks on the mobile operating system increased by more than 30 percent. Despite responsible new security measures by Google, McAfee Labs believes the largest mobile platform will continue to draw the most attention from hackers given it possesses the largest base of potential victims.

• Spike in spam. Global spam volume increased 125 percent in the third quarter of 2013. McAfee Labs researchers believe much of this spike was driven by legitimate “affiliate” marketing firms purchasing and using mailing lists sourced from less than reputable sources.

Each quarter, the McAfee Labs team of 500 multidisciplinary researchers in 30 countries follows the complete range of threats in real time, identifying application vulnerabilities, analyzing and correlating risks, and enabling instant remediation to protect enterprises and the public. To read the full McAfee Labs Threats Report: Third Quarter 2013, please visit: http://mcaf.ee/s4xfb

Android 4.4 Arrives with New Security Features - But Do They Really Matter?

Last week, Google has released the 4.4 (KitKat) version of their omni-popular Android OS. Between the improvements, some have noticed several security-related changes. So, how much more secure is Android 4.4?

When talking about Android 4.4 (KitKat) major security improvements, they can be divided into 2 categories:

1. Digital certificates
Android 4.4 will warn the user if a Certificate Authority (CA) is added to the device, making it easy to identify Man-in-the-Middle attacks inside local networks. At the same time, Google Certificate Pinning will make it harder for sophisticated attackers to intercept network traffic to and from Google services, by making sure only whitelisted SSL certificates can connect to certain Google domains.

2. OS hardening
SELinux is now running in enforcing mode, instead of permissive mode. This helps enforce permissions and thwart privilege escalation attacks, such as exploits that want to gain root access. Android 4.4 comes compiled with FORTIFY_SOURCE set at level 2, making buffer overflow exploits harder to implement.

Stefan Tanase, Senior Regional Researcher, Global Research & Analysis Team.

Privilege escalation and buffer overflows are techniques used for rooting mobile phones, so this makes it harder for Android 4.4 users to get root access on their device. On the bright side, it also makes it harder for malware to do the same, which is an important step in the infection of Android based terminals.

From the point of view of malware threats, these enhancements do not really make a big difference. The most common Android infection source remains the same: unofficial apps downloaded from third-party stores. Nothing has changed here.

One of the biggest problems in the Android ecosystem is the big amount of different versions of the OS, including ancient ones, that are still running on users’ mobile devices - this is known as version fragmentation. For instance, more than 25% of the users are still running Android 2.3, which has been released years ago. This between other things, represents a big security issue.

Therefore, perhaps the most important change from KitKat is the lowered resource usage. Android 4.4 can run on devices with just 512MB of RAM, which for high end hardware means faster operation and better battery life, while for devices with less resources, the chance to use a modern, more secure OS.

Power users have always wanted to use the latest versions of Android on their devices - that's why phone rooting has become so popular and that's why community projects such as CyanogenMod have evolved into fully-fledged companies.

The real problem here, is the fact that most non-technical users will have to rely on hardware vendors to get an Android update. For instance, I have an old smartphone from a leading mobile phone maker from South Korea, that stopped receiving updates at Android 2.3.3. Sadly, many mobile phone makers prefer to withhold updates as a method of forcing users to purchase newer terminals. At the same time, this is effectively increasing the risk across their entire user base.

It’s a pity this problem is not discussed in a wider manner.

BBM Welcomes Over 20 Million New Active Users in the First Week

BBM Community Grows to More Than 80 Million Active Users Across BlackBerry, Android and iPhone Devices Globally

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – After the amazing launch of BBM™ on Android® and iPhone® devices, with more than 10 million downloads in the first 24 hours, BBM has now ended its first week with more than 80 million monthly active users*, including over 20 million new users on Android and iPhone devices.

During its first week, BBM was the top free overall app in 35 countries in Google Play™ and in 107 countries in the App StoreSM, and continues to maintain a strong position in key markets such as Canada, the US, the UK, Indonesia and much of the Middle East, to name a few.

“It is great to see so many people downloading BBM, but the true measurement for us is engagement – the connections being made and the conversations in which our BBM community engages. The power of BBM has always been the active, real conversations and interaction that our customers enjoy,” said Andrew Bocking, Executive Vice President of BBM at BlackBerry. “From here on out, we will focus on active users of BBM and will no longer focus on simple download numbers.”

With the BBM community now at more than 80 million active users around the globe, users are connecting on the private social network like never before. This past weekend, BlackBerry® (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB) was able to remove the virtual line-up so that Android and iPhone users can now immediately download, sign in and start using BBM without having to wait.

BBM users are enjoying the immediacy and control that BBM offers as they chat with their new contacts – either one-to-one, in multi-person chats or as part of a BBM Group. The delivered and read statuses, as well as the message-in-progress alert, keep people engaged and active in conversations on BBM.  BBM users can also share files such as photos, and voice notes, as well as update their statuses with ease. BBM Groups allows photo, calendar, chat and file sharing for up to 30 people in a user-generated community.

Every BBM user has a unique PIN that helps maintains their privacy, so users never have to give out their phone number or email address to a new or casual contact. BlackBerry ID connects with a person’s PIN, BBM contact list and services to make device switching quick and easy.

The BBM experience will continue to evolve.  In the coming months, BlackBerry will deliver BBM Video calling, BBM Voice calling and BBM Channels – a new community building service to connect BBM users even more broadly – to Android and iPhone users.

Android and iPhone device users can download BBM by visiting BBM.com.

Over 10 Million Downloads of BBM for Android and iPhone in the First Day

BBM achieves top ranking in the App Store in over 75 countries within the first 24 hours

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – In just 24 hours BBM™ has been downloaded over 10 million times by Android™ and iPhone® users, one of the best single-day openings for a mobile app to date. BBM, the premier private social network from BlackBerry® (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), is available for free in the App StoreSM and Google Play™ for immediate download.

BBM also quickly rose through the rankings on the App Store to be the number one free app in more than 75 countries in the first 24 hours, including the US, Canada, the UK, Indonesia and most of the Middle East. User ratings in both the App Store and Google Play are overwhelmingly positive, earning BBM 60,000 five-star reviews on Google Play from about 87,000 reviews.

“This has been an incredible launch for BBM across Android and iPhone devices. The mobile messaging market is full of opportunity for BBM. We intend to be the leading private social network for everyone who needs the immediate communication and collaboration of instant messaging combined with the privacy, control and reliability delivered through BBM,” said Andrew Bocking, Executive Vice President, BBM at BlackBerry.

BBM users, old and new, are enjoying the following features:
• BBM Chat – Enjoy real, immediate conversations with friends on Android, iPhone and BlackBerry smartphones. Not only does BBM let people know their message has been delivered and read, it also shows them when a contact is responding to a message.
• More than chat – With BBM, customers can simply and instantly share files such as photos and voice notes. Multi-person chats are a great way to invite contacts to chat together.
• Get in the Group – BBM Groups lets users invite up to 30 friends to chat together, as well as share photo albums, calendars and files.
-more-
• Post Updates and stay in the know – BBM lets people post a personal message, profile picture and a current status, and lets contacts see statuses instantly in Updates.
• Your unique PIN – Every BBM user has a unique PIN that maintains privacy, so users are not required to ever give out their phone number or email address to a new or casual contact.

Android and iPhone users will have access to BBM Voice and Video calling, as well as the new community building tool – BBM Channels – in the near future.

For more information on BBM, or to download BBM, please visit www.bbm.com. Follow @BBM on Twitter for the latest news and updates.

Gartner Says Worldwide PC, Tablet and Mobile Phone Shipments to Grow 4.5 Percent in 2013 as Lower-Priced Devices Drive Growth

PC Shipments to Decline 8.4 Percent in 2013, While Tablet Shipments Increase 53.4 Percent

Kuala Lumpur, 23 October 2013 — Worldwide combined shipments of devices (PCs, tablets and mobile phones) are projected to reach 2.32 billion units in 2013, a 4.5 percent increase from 2012, according to Gartner, Inc. The market is being driven by a shift to lower-priced devices in nearly all device categories.

Worldwide shipments of traditional PCs (desk-based and notebook) are forecast to total 303 million units in 2013, an 11.2 percent decline from 2012, and the PC market, including ultramobiles, is forecast to decline 8.4 percent in 2013 (see Table 1). Mobile phone shipments are projected to grow 3.7 percent, with volume of more than 1.8 billion units.

Tablet shipments are expected to grow 53.4 percent this year, with shipments reaching 184 million units. Premium tablets are faced with continued price decline in the 7-inch form factor as a larger number of consumers prefer smaller form factors when it comes to content consumption. A recent consumer study that Gartner conducted in Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, the U.K., the U.S. and Japan confirmed Gartner's long-standing assumption that smaller is better when it comes to consumer tablets. The survey showed that the average screen sizes of the tablets in use across the countries ranged from 8.3 inches to 9.5 inches. Forty-seven percent of the 21,500 consumers surveyed owned a tablet that was 8 inches or less.

As the third-quarter earnings season comes to an end, it is clear that our caution for 2013 was well placed as vendors are transitioning their portfolios to the new Intel processors Bay Trail and Haswell, as well as rolling out products that are based on the Windows 8.1 release.

"While consumers will be bombarded with ads for the new ultramobile devices, we expect their attention to be grabbed but not necessarily their money," said Carolina Milanesi, research vice president at Gartner. "Continuing on the trend we saw last year, we expect this holiday season to be all about smaller tablets as even the long-term holiday favorite — the smartphone — loses its appeal.

Table 1

Worldwide Device Shipments by Segment (Thousands of Units)

Device Type	2012	2013	2014
PC (Desk-Based and Notebook)	341,273	303,100	281,568
Ultramobile	9,787	18,598	39,896
Tablet	120,203	184,431	263,229
Mobile Phone	1,746,177	1,810,304	1,905,030
Total	2,217,440	2,316,433	2,489,723

Source: Gartner (October 2013)

"Although the preference is for dedicated devices, we see the opportunity for hybrid ultramobile to marry the functionality of a PC and the form factor of the tablet. Users that have to balance work and play will find that the advantage of buying and carrying one device outweighs the compromise in the full experience that single devices can deliver," said Ranjit Atwal, research director at Gartner. "Users who are not limited by their disposable income will likely have a basic tablet as a companion device to the their ultramobile on which most of their consumption activities will take place."

The mobile phone market will continue to experience steady growth, but the opportunity for high average selling price (ASP) smartphones is now ending. Growth is expected to come from mid-tier smartphones in mature markets and low-end Android smartphones in emerging markets.

Microsoft's acquisition of Nokia doesn't have a major impact on the forecast, because Gartner already assumed that Nokia would have accounted for the vast majority of Windows Phone share throughout the forecast, with only minimal volume coming from other OEMs, such as HTC or Samsung.

"Windows Phone challenges in the smartphone market remain the same, with the need to bring on board more developers and enrich the ecosystem, as well as turning the Windows Phone brand into a cool smartphone brand. While there are clear benefits to the acquisition, such as channel strength, carrier relationship and emerging-market knowledge, the brand and ecosystem do not directly benefit from it," said Ms. Milanesi.

The end of Windows XP support in 2014 isn't expected to impact device sales, as Gartner says 90 percent of large enterprises have either migrated or are migrating to Windows 7 or Windows 8.

Android will remain the leading device operating system (OS), as it is on pace to account for 38 percent of shipments in 2013 (see Table 2). The Windows OS is projected to decline 4.3 percent in 2013 as a result of the decline in traditional PC sales, but will return to growth in 2014 with device OS shipments increasing 9.7 percent.

Table 2

Worldwide Device Shipments by Operating System (Thousands of Units)

Operating System	2012	2013	2014
Android	505,509	879,910	1,115,289
Windows	346,468	331,559	363,803
iOS/MacOS	212,875	271,949	338,106
RIM	34,584	23,103	19,297
Others	1,118,004	809,912	653,228
Total	2,217,440	2,316,433	2,489,723

Source: Gartner (October 2013)

Top technology providers see wearable devices as an important market opportunity; however, Gartner expects that wearable devices will primarily remain a companion to mobile phones. Less than 1 percent of consumers will actually replace their mobile phones with a combination of a wearable device and a tablet by 2017.

"For wearables to be successful, they need to add to the user experience by complementing and enhancing what other devices already offer. They also need to be stylish yet practical, and most of all hit the right price," said Ms. Milanesi. "In the short term, we expect consumers to look at wearables as nice to have rather than a "must have," leaving smartphones to play the role of our faithful companion throughout the day."