According to a report from O Globo, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) has reduced the price of the iPhone in Brazil by a substantial amount, lowering them down to over 25%. The Cupertino company lowered the price of the 8 GB iPhone 4 to R$ 1099 (US$544) from R$ 1499 (US$741) and also dropped the 16 GB iPhone 4S from R$ 1999 (US$989) to R$ 1699 (US$840).

In Brazil, AAPL does give customers the option for 12 month financing, however, if a customer pays up front, they will be awarded a bonus 10% discount, lowering the price of the iPhone even more. After bringing some of Foxconn’s operations to Brazil, and lowering the company’s overall costs, the price of the iPhone is likely reflecting the change. It is unclear however, if the the new price reduction will affect the iPhone 5 as it is not sold in Brazil’s online store.

In the US, the 8GB iPhone 4 is available unsubsidized for $450 before taxes, which could easily bring it up to over $500. Even so, it appears that with the 15% discounts, Brazilians are still paying a higher amount for unlocked iPhones, as opposed to their US counterparts. Apple has begun hiring for employees at its retail locations in Brazil, ensuring that customers in the country recieve the same experience as all others do around the world. It remains unclear if the price reductions will reflect in other markets around the world.

{Via MacRumors}

Apple has been receiving stiff competition from companies such as Samsung, which quickly moved up in the market following its release of Galaxy S devices and anti-Apple advertising. Now, it seems that another company is gearing up to do the same thing, perhaps, after seeing it become a success with Samsung. A new ad from LG highlights OPtimus G Pro’s Panorama feature just like iPhone 4S and 5 TV ad, and then adds on to it.

By doing this, the ad shows that the company’s Optimus G Pro phone is more advanced and that the panorama feature is more expansive on this device. in Apple’s version of the ad, a person is taking a picture of children and uses the Panorama feature to sweep across the screen while saying an elongated “cheeeeese”.

The LG spot begins nearly identical to Apple’s, with the same classic white background, lineup of children, and use of the panorama feature. The narrator in the ad, also says the same phrase, “cheeeese” (“Kimchiiiiiii”) in Japanese. However, halfway through the ad, the Optimus G Pro begins to move all around the screen while capturing a number of different image points including the ceiling and floor. The children, which are organized horizontally in Apple’s ad, are active and running about in LG’s ad.

Google released the “Photo Sphere” feature with the JellyBean 4.2 update to the Android OS, meaning that users can automatically upload the photo to their other Google services. This isn’t the first time that one of Apple’s ads were skewed to show off a feature on another phone, however, these ads appear to be working in the favor of competitors, particularly Samsung.

{Via AppleInsider}

On Monday, Apple released iOS 6.1.1 for the iPhone 4S after seeding a beta of the update to developers last week. The update comes less than two weeks after Apple released iOS 6.1 to the public, adding new features such as new LTE carriers and the ability to buy Fandango movie tickets through Siri.

The new iOS 6.1.1 update fixes a 3G issue discovered in the iOS 6.1 update and comes with a build number of 10B145. The download is relatively small, coming in at 23MB, which makes sense when considering that it is only fixing the 3G issue on the iPhone 4S. Apple notes that the update will improve cellular performance on the 4S and does not go into detail about the issue.

About iOS 6.1.1 Software Update

This update fixes an issue that could impact cellular performance and reliability for iPhone 4S.

When considering that the iOS 6.1.1 update only addressed the 3G issue, it is likely that the other features noted on the beta released to developers will arrive as 6.1.2. Some of these other features include updates to the Maps application for Japanese users such as updated freeway color to green and updated icons for some location categories including fire.

Apple appears to be stabilizing iOS 6 as much as possible, before the expected iOS 7 update later this year. Issues with iOS Maps and Siri has caused many conflicts at Apple, including the ousting of iOS chief Scott Forstall as well as thousands of user complaints.

{Via MacRumors}

AT&T is making changes to its data plan offerings, opening up FaceTime over Cellular to all customers who currently have a tiered data plan. AT&T has been carrying the iPhone since the original model, after it acquired Cingular in 2007. Initially, AT&T restricted FaceTime over Cellular to devices with 4G LTE, including the iPhone 5, iPad mini, and the third and fourth generation iPad as well as those who have Mobile Share plans.

Those who have grandfathered unlimited data plans do not have access to the feature, as they are sticking with older devices. All devices currently activated with AT&T require one of the tiered plans.

When FaceTime over Cellular launched in September 2012, we explained that we wanted to roll it out gradually to ensure the service had minimal impact on the mobile experience for all of our customers.

As a result of ongoing testing, we’re announcing AT&T will enable FaceTime over Cellular at no extra charge for customers with any tiered data plan using a compatible iOS device.

This means iPhone 4S customers with tiered plans will be able to make FaceTime calls over the AT&T cellular network. AT&T previously made FaceTime over Cellular available to customers with a Mobile Share plan and those with an LTE device on tiered plans.

AT&T is not enabling this feature right away, and instead is gradually rolling out the feature to users. As AT&T mentioned in its announcement, users with an iPhone 4S or a newer device will be able to use this feature over the next several months.

Both Sprint and Verizon currently allows its customers to use FaceTime over Cellular, as long as they are using an iPhone 4S or newerd device. AT&T appears to the only carrier that held off but is now slowly rolling it out to users who are on tiered data plans.

{Via MacRumors}

Apple is rumored to be working on the next generation iPhone, currently being called the “iPhone 5S”. According to Jeffries analyst Peter Misek, Apple is now testing two prototypes of the next gen iPhone, and will start initial builds in March in order for a early release date in June or July. Since the iPhone 4S, Apple has been releasing iPhones in the Fall, alongside or close to the iPod refresh. Now, with rumors that the Cupertino company is creating a ‘cheaper’ iPhone for emerging markets, Apple is expected to move up the iPhone debut to the June/July timeframe in order to release the new device in the Fall.

Misek claims that the iPhone to be released in June will be only an incremental upgrade, likely internal changes such as a faster A6X chip, and better cameras and that an entirely new design with a larger 4.8” screen will be seen with the next generation iPhone 6. As noted, the cheaper iPhone will likely be a more concentrated device, such as the iPad mini, which isn’t built of cheaper materials, but rather of a smaller size.

As expected, Misek believes that with reports of a “iPhone 5S” on the horizon, sales of the current iPhone 5 would slow, although he also predicts that Apple will sell 44 million iPhones in the March quarter. He also pinpointed some reasons as to why a decrease in iPhone 5 part orders does not necessarily mean a decline in demand for the product.

– An assembly bottleneck that caused component inventories to rise in the holiday quarter.
– Planning for preliminary production of the next iPhone in March.
– Demand may be either in line or “slightly below optimistic expectations

It seems that Apple will likely keep its iPhone line consistent and in line with Misek’s claims. Since the iPhone 3G, the company has always followed with an ‘S’ version, with the letter signifying a new feature. In the iPhone 3GS, it was Speed; the iPhone 4S was Siri, and the 5S will likely signify a newer feature.

{Via AppleInsider}

Apple was recently approved for a number of patents by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The significance behind these patents is the fact that many of them were designed by late CEO Steve Jobs and Apple’s design chief, Jonathan Ive. One patent, filed as U.S. Patent D671937, and called “Electronic Device” referred to the iPhone 4 design and the antenna design which was the focus of intense scrutiny until it was redesigned in the iPhone 4S.

Jony Ive was also credited for some patents, such as the Bumper design for the iPhone 4 and 4S. It was filed as U.S. Patent D671930, and was simply named “Cover. Other patents included the Smart Cover, also called “Cover” and filed as U.S. Patent D671948 as well as the L-shaped Magsafe connector in older generation Macbooks which was entitled “Connector” and filed as U.S. Patent D671898.

Apple’s Magsafe connector is now called Magsafe 2 and ships with all new Macbooks. With all of these patents, Apple retains many of its original product ideas, which it can improve on as the generations of products progress. For example, Apple introduced the Smart Cover with the iPad 2 and is still sold with the fourth generation iPad and iPad mini and will likely continue to advance with future generations of the iPad.

{via AppleInsider}

Apple is looking to continue adding to Siri’s features with 9 more languages reportedly coming to the personal voice assistant, currently operating on the iPhone 4S and iPhone 5. Belgian site Apple Nieuws Vlaanderen noticed earlier this week that Apple had posted a job listing for Cloud Services Engineering Interns for those who can speak Arabic, Chinese, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, Korean, Norwegian, and Swedish.

On the listing, Apple noted this was for “delivering Siri in different parts of the world.” Currently, only Danish, Dutch, Finnish, Norwegian, and Swedish are not supported on Siri, however, may be in the next several months if Apple hires interns an improves Siri. Apple currently supports the following languages and will continue to expand to include more

• United States (English, Spanish)
• United Kingdom (English)
• Australia (English)
• France (French)
• Germany (German)
• Japan (Japanese)
• Canada (English, Canadian French)
• China (Mandarin)
• Hong Kong (Cantonese)
• Italy (Italian)
• Korea (Korean)
• Mexico (Spanish)
• Spain (Spanish)
• Switzerland (Italian, French, German)
• Taiwan (Mandarin)

With iOS 6, Apple has continued to improve Siri, adding in new features such as Sports scores, stats and information, as well as the ability to buy movie tickets, and even support for Passbook. By adding in new languages and more support for external applications such as Passbook and Yelp, Siri is becoming more integrated into the iOS ecosystem. During its initial release, many users complained that Siri was very limited and couldn’t interact with third party applications.

{Via MacRumors}

On Friday, AllThingsD reported that Apple is planning to schedule a special media event for the rumored “iPad Mini” on Tuesday, October 23rd. The device, which is rumored to carry a 7.85 inch screen will likely feature all of the same cameras as on the iPhone 4S as well as the new Lightning connector for iOS devices and the updated A6 chip.

As AllThingsD reported in August, Apple will hold a special event this month at which it will showcase a new, smaller iPad. People familiar with Apple’s plans tell us that the company will unveil the so-called “iPad mini” on October 23 at an invitation-only event.

That’s a Tuesday, not a Wednesday, so this is a bit of a break with recent tradition. It also happens to be just three days prior to the street date for Microsoft’s new Surface tablet.

According to the report, the event is expected to be held at the Town Hall auditorium at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, CA and Apple will likely send out invitations as early as next week. With more and more rumors and images of the iPad Mini surface, it is almost certain that a smaller, cheaper, and lighter iPad is on the horizon. The Loop’s Jim Dalrymple also confirmed the iPad Mini event with a simple “yep” as he has with numerous other Apple product launches in the past.

{Via AllThingsD}

Earlier this year we reviewed .vs Racing and thoroughly enjoyed it, the only flaw being the lack of online multiplayer and Game Center integration. Now though VS. Racing 2 has been released promising to address some of those issues and a lot more.

VS. Racing 2 is a top down arcade racer where you race your tiny car around 36 different tracks. Your car can, and will need to be, upgraded based on the coins that you earn competing in races. Don’t worry if you don’t like to have to tinker with your car though as all you can tweak is your speed, acceleration and off-road capabilities.

There are three modes to the racing, first up is the standard single player fare where you unlock tracks as you progress through winning races. Online multiplayer has also been addressed although this is not real time racing. Instead you get to set a time around the track and then challenge a friend to beat your ghost time. It’s an improvement on the original but still no replacement for full online multiplayer racing.

Finally there is local multiplayer racing and this time there is the addition power-ups that you can pick up on track and unleash on your opponents including mines, oil and speed boosts to name but a few. This is a nice addition should you have the occasion where you have a group of friends available to play locally.

Once again the controls work well with three options available for you to pick from, these are virtual buttons, virtual steering wheel and the accelerometer. All of these are work well and it will really be down to personal preference as to which one works for you. What would be nice if it was possible to control the sensitivity of these controls too.

While the controls work well within the game the same can’t be said for the navigation menu’s which are sluggish. Sluggishness is also a problem in the loading of each level which considering the racing tracks are so small take a long time to load.

The tracks do look nice though, they show a good level of detail around the tracks should you ever find the time to look at it as you race around the track at speed. There are also multiple surfaces which directly affect how the car handles which you will have to take into consideration unless you want to go from 1st to 4th in a single corner.

With the addition of Game Center achievements as well as the ghost online racing this is certainly an improvement on .vs Racing, however the sluggish navigation and long load times let it down.

If you want to give it a try then VS. Racing 2 is available in the App Store for $0.99.

What we like

• Secret levels with power-up
• Lots of detailed tracks
• Multiple control options
• Game Center achievements

What to know

• Slow load times
• Sluggish navigation

ClickStik Bluetooth Remote + Camera Stand Review

“The best camera is the one that’s with you” is attributed to Chase Jarvis and that has never been more true with the quality of camera that are now in cell phones, specifically the iPhone 4S and of course the just released iPhone 5.

There’s no disputing how good the photos are that the latest generations of iPhones produce, however there are times when you want to be in the photograph. If that’s the case you currently only have a couple of options. You could do one of those at arm length self portraits or you’ll either need to trust your iPhone to someone else to take the photo for you.

Now, though there is ClickStik, a bluetooth remote for your iPhone’s camera and a tripod for your iPhone which allows you to remotely take photographs with your iPhone while being up to 30ft away.

Pairing your device with the ClickStik takes just seconds and with only one button on the remote it’s very self explanatory whether you take the time to read the instructions or not. The tripod is a little trickier to configure.

Firstly it comes in two pieces, the stand collapses for easy travelling and is secured in place when not in use by a velcro strap that doubles as a binding should you want or need to strap the stand down if you are taking pictures under conditions that require it.

Secondly the phone is held in place in a three point holder which will hold your device both with and without a case which can then be screwed to the tripod base. Your iPhone can also be accurately positioned based on your need thanks to two hand bolts that allow you to loosen, move and tighten with ease.

The product is made of plastic and overall the build quality is pretty good. The only piece I have questions about is how strong the phone holster is as it feels that any over zealous usage could result in a break.

Using the Bluetooth adapter to take your pictures couldn’t be easier either. The remote won’t work with the stock camera app so after downloading the free ClickStik app from the App Store and launching it, taking pictures is only a click away.

There is little if no lag between pressing the remote’s button and the photograph being taken and the pictures are automatically saved to your Camera Roll to.

Obviously as the pictures are saved to your Camera Roll you can use them with any app you like but the ClickStik app does include photo editing options itself in which you can add effects, frames, stamps, text and other effects directly in the app. Now, while this is no Instagram it does provide nice options and allows you to share directly to Facebook, Twitter and email should you want to.

At $49.99 the ClickStik offers great value for money, infact with both the tripod and the Bluetooth remote you are getting to tools for the price of one and if you take a lot of photo’s with your iPhone this would be a great tool to add to your iPhone’s Camera accessories.

What we like

• Easy to setup
• Remote and stand in one pack
• Free app with added features

What to know

• May not hold up to over zealous handling

ClickStik Camera Stand Gallery

Apple Inc. (AAPL) has had yet another successful iPhone launch, topping previous years launch weekend sale by one million. As a matter of fact, the iPhone 5 sold 5 million units during the first weekend it was on sale surpassing the iPhone 4S sales which sold 4 million units in the first 3 days of release.

Although the sales for the iPhone 5 are higher and pre orders reached 2 million in 24 hours, it did not meet the expectations of Wall Street analysts who predicted that AAPL would sell over 8 million units.

Alongside the news of the 5 million iPhone 5s sold, Apple also announced that over 100 million iOS devices have been updated to iOS 6, bringing the company’s new Maps application to older devices, as well as a number of other features such as Do Not Disturb and Passbook. Apple CEO Tim Cook commented on the sale of 5 million iPhone 5 units:

Demand for iPhone 5 has been incredible and we are working hard to get an iPhone 5 into the hands of every customer who wants one as quickly as possible. While we have sold out of our initial supply, stores continue to receive iPhone 5 shipments regularly and customers can continue to order online and receive an estimated delivery date. We appreciate everyone’s patience and are working hard to build enough iPhone 5s for everyone.

Many users who preordered still have not received their iPhone 5 as demand for the product exceeded initial supply, leaving users with shipments slated to arrive in October. It normally takes Apple several weeks to meet up with the initial demand for its products, regulating shipping dates as sales come in. With the iPhone, shipping dates generally drop to 1 week or less after the first 4 weeks of initial sales.

The 5 million figure for the iPhone 5 accounts only for the units Apple was able to ship to its customers. Its possible that the pre-order numbers could be much higher however, due to supply constraints the company was unable to account for those units that have not been delivered yet. The quarterly financial report that the company is expected to announce would give a better picture of the devices sold. As the holiday season approaches Apple could set yet another record sales as nearly all of its products have been completely redesigned for this year.

{Via AppleInsider}

Apple has begun rolling out iOS 6 software download for supported iOS devices. The sixth major release of iOS was announced at this years WWDC keynote event, the update brings in some new features, many enhancements and new API’s for app developers.

The highlight feature of iOS 6 is Apple designed Maps app. Since the original iPhone launch in 2007  Apple had licensed Google Maps to be used in iPhone and all other iOS devices however, with growing differences between Google and Apple and the Cupertino, Calif. based company decided to build its own solution. Maps in iOS 6 brings 3D Maps to iPhone, iPod touch and iPad with a unique feature called Flyover, that offers ariel view of the supported locations.

Apple has also updated Siri for iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPad 3 and iPod touch 5G to support sports, restaurants and movie related searches. Siri continues to remain in beta and availability of features varies from country to country.

After Twitter was deeply integrated in iOS 5, Apple has finally added Facebook in iOS 6. This allows you to post status updates from Notification Center, share webpage, post photos and even allow single sign on for all apps for ease of use.

One of the exciting new features is Share Photo Streams which can be used if you share photos with friends and family from the Photos app. This makes sharing, commenting and liking photos extremely easy and now you can avoid sending emails with large attachments and view inline comments.

Passbook introduces a new way of managing your tickets, boarding pass, coupons and more. This app updates the loyalty cards, check in timing for your flight and even has location based alerts. We are expecting to see many retailers and airlines to start supporting Passbook fairly soon.

Other enhancements include, FaceTime over cellular for iPhone 4S, iPhone 5 and iPad 3. The phone app has also been improved to support sending canned messages when declining a call, Mail now supports VIP list and easy flagging. Safari adds iCloud tabs, offline reading and full screen browsing.

iOS 6 download has been released and should be appearing via over-the-air update for iOS 5 devices. You can also update your device by connecting your device to iTunes via USB cable. It’s advisable to backup your device either using iCloud or manual iTunes sync before beginning the software update.

Have you already downloaded iOS 6 software update? What are your thoughts on the new features and changes? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

Here’s the complete changelog of iOS 6:

With the new iPhone 5  introduction around the corner, more and more parts leaks and photos are being released on the web. On Monday, MacRumors reader, Michael Rou got hold of what he claimed to be pre-production cases for the iPhone 5 and iPad mini. The reader then took images of the cases and posted them on Flickr, while comparing it to the iPad 3 and the current iPhone 4S.

The cases, leaked from designs in the Foxconn factory point to the iPad Mini being a much smaller 7.85” with a smaller bezel as opposed to the current 9.7” screen on the iPad. The iPad Mini is however, expected to retain the same aspect ratio and resolution of the iPad 2 at 1024×768. Apple is likely reverting back to specs for the iPad 2 because it is aiming for a lower price point and perhaps cannot include some of the higher powered technology such as 4G LTE in the Mini.

Rou notes that the iPad Mini case sports a headphone jack on top, unlike the newer designs on the next generation iPhone 5. The iPhone 5 case is 4 inches tall, as numerous other web reports have suggested and in the photos, appears to be taller than the current iPhone 4S. The iPhone 5 is expected at Apple’s media event on September 12th, while the iPad Mini is expected to follow suit in October.

{Via MacRumors}

With the iPhone 5 keynote event scheduled on September 12th, more and more part leaks are beginning to appear, revealing plenty of details about the next gen iPhone. The latest leak comes from site iResQ, which released images of the iPhone 5 and compared it to the current iPhone 4S to gauge thickness between the two smartphones. Late last month, iResQ released images of the flex cables for the iPhone 5 as well as for the upcoming iPad Mini.

The latest images appears to be a fully assembled model, missing the logic board and a few other pieces. With the device fully assembled, it is clear that the iPhone 5 is substantially thinner than the iPhone 4S and appears to be different in design, particularly with the glass flushed with the metal band, unlike the 2 “sandwiched” pieces of glass on the 4S.

The iPhone 5 is expected to have a larger 4 inch screen, a redesigned dock connector, relocated FaceTime camera and headphone jack, and may also include faster 4G LTE networking. The iPhone 5, following its announcement on September 12th, is expected to go on sale in both carrier stores and in Apple’s Retail Stores on September 21st.

Apple’s sixth-gen iPhone announcement event may also see introduction of new iPod lineup for the holiday season. Are you excited about the media event? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

{Via MacRumors}

Following the introduction of the iPhone 4S, Apple Inc. (AAPL) iPhone 3GS dropped down to $99 and eventually was available for free with a 2 year contract. According to a report from The Telegraph, Apple is now making moves to introduce an 8GB iPhone 4S for $99 and eliminate the iPhone 3GS altogether.

This would allow for the iPhone 4 to remain and take the place of the 3GS as free on contract option for users. An iPhone 4 for free with a two year contract would also give users many options, with both GSM and CDMA as the free iPhone 3GS was limited to AT&T subscribers only.

The new update will mean that the 8GB version of the iPhone 4 will be the entry-level iPhone, probably given away free on £20 per month contracts, as the 3GS is currently. Sources close to retailers also suggested that an 8GB version of the 4S could be introduced.

The report also mentions that the iPhone 5, to be introduced next Wednesday will be available in three capacities, 16 GB/32 GB/64 GB. They will likely all be available with the same price points of the iPhone 4S upon introduction, $199/$299/$399. It makes sense for Apple to phase out the iPhone 3GS, as it would not run apps much like the newer iPhones.

The iPhone 4 as the free on contract option would allow for all of Apple’s device to be in sync in terms of design and features, offering FaceTime, CDMA networking, and a faster A4 chip. The iPhone 5 is scheduled to be announced next week, on September 12th and is expected to go on sale on September 21st.

{Via MacRumors}

Last August, Apple launched a buyback program for old iPhones, iPads and Macs and partnered with its long term recycling partner PowerON. The program offers users an Apple gift card for the value of the device, which can be used at any of the company’s retail locations as well as the online store.

The Cupertino company also gives users the options to recycle the device without any charge or compensation if they choose. On Wednesday, ahead of iPhone 5 release date, Apple updated their Reuse and Recycling page to include the iPhone 4S, offering up to $345 for the device. A slightly used black iPhone 4S would receive about $280 in the form of a check.

According to AppleInsider’s report, the addition of the iPhone 4S comes only weeks before Apple is expected to announce the release date of the next generation iPhone 5 on September 12th and release on the 21st. Although the online prices for the recycled devices are estimates, most device owners are receiving more than the initial $200 the put in for the 4S. PowerON also recycles newer PCs for Apple Gift Cards through its recycling program.

If you’ve been waiting to upgrade to the sixth gen iPhone then this recycling program is a great option to get a good deal on your used iPhone. Apple’s all-new iPhone expected to launch in the coming month.

There is clearly a market for cases that prevent the more clumsy amongst us from damaging our beloved iPhones. Two of the most prevalent cases in that market at the moment are the Otterbox and LifeProof cases which not only protect your investment from drops but in the case of the LifeProof case from water too.

Well now there is a new contender to the crown in the shape of the Cellhelmet case from cellhelmet.com which not only promises to protect your iPhone from damage but is willing to put it’s money where it’s mouth is in the form of a years worth of accidental damage coverage for a whole year.

Think about that for a second, you purchase a case for $44.99 and not only do you get a good looking case but you also get a unlimited repairs and one full replacement for just the cost of a $50 handling fee per claim. Even with the handling charge it’s still a pretty staggering really!

Beyond the insurance the case offers a few benefits over its competitors in its space. Firstly the case has a good slim line form factor especially compared to the Otterbox which means it’s not going to add too much bulk when you are carrying it. Secondly it doesn’t have a built in screen protector like both the previously mentioned case, so if you like the direct feel of your iPhones glass then this is the case for you.

The case is made from a strong rubber case which balances the benefits of providing protection to your iPhone along with the benefit of being able to easily access all buttons and ports but also makes it easy to take on and off of your iPhone should you wish too. (Please note, your iPhone is not covered by the accidental damage insurance if you aren’t using the case at the time!)

The cases come in a clear or smoke shades and can be customized further by the use of 2 interchangeable backplates that fit inside the case to provide additional protection and a level of color customization. That being said the backplate barely showed through on the smoke version of the case that I had.

Overall the quality of the case is solid too, it feels likes it’s protecting your phone and while the smoothness of the rubber may not appeal to everyone it provides good grip and is robust. The only slight negative point about the case is some remnants of the machining process being left on one side of the case, it’s only a minor point though.

If you want to protect your iPhone and don’t want the bulk of the Otterbox or the restricted access of the LifeProof case along with a year long insurance policy against accidental damage then you should head over to cellhelmet.com and check out their Cellhelmet iPhone Case.

What we like

• A year of insurance
• Solid protection
• Customizable

What to know

• Minor machining defect

Back in 1996 I played the original Playstation game, Resident Evil. It was the first game that actually had me on the edge of my seat and literally jump out of it at times too. Ever since then I’ve been hunting for a game to re-create the same atmosphere. Despite valiant attempts however by such games as F.E.A.R. and Condemend, I’ve never found one that quite hits the mark in the same way. That is until now.

Walking Dead: The Game, to give it its full title is a point and click adventure game that follows the storyline of the Walking Dead comic book series. If you are more familiar with the TV series you’ll still know what’s going on even though the TV show used some ‘creative license’ when bringing it so successfully to the big screen.

The cell shaded comic book style graphics do a great service to the comic book series and along with the awesome atmospheric soundtrack and possibly some of the best voice acting in an iOS game, if not any game, that I’ve seen Walking Dead: The Game sucks you in from the moment you start it. (The game recommends that you use headphones to play the game and I couldn’t agree more.)

You take the role of Lee Everett while be transported in the back of a police car you manage to find yourself free after the car hits a walker. From this point on it’s you and a collection of other non-walkers that you get introduced to along the way against the ever growing numbers of undead that walk the earth.

The interactions with the walkers is impressively done to ensure maximum shock value and excitement as they attempt to take your life and that of the people that you band together with.

The game moves along at a good pace and this is helped by the way that the storyline and the action sequences where you control the action are intertwined. The controls are easy to pick up, move Lee around the screen to investigate the environment is a simple case of dragging your finger across the screen while objects that can be interacted with are highlighted.

This may initially appear to make the game seem rather linear, however, thanks to the short time limits that you are given to make your decisions and how these decisions affect the gameplay that’s certainly not the case.

The characters interactions are expertly done and as mentioned before the voice acting is so good you sometimes forget that you are playing a game and not watching a movie. Decisions of how to interact with the other characters and what to say to them are given as a set of choices and making the wrong one, in the allotted time could have catastrophic ramifications.

The game is a universal app but unfortunately there is no syncing of your progress so you can’t jump between playing on the two devices which would have been nice. Some people may baulk at the price too as not only is the app a cent shy of $5 that will only get you the first episode, subsequent 4 episodes will set you back an additional $4.99 each, or $14.99 if you buy them all at the same time.

Personally the price doesn’t put me off and therefore I would highly recommend that your shell out the initial $4.99 for episode one, enjoy a thoroughly engrossing and atmospheric game and then decide whether you want to purchase the additional episodes.

Some, but not all, people are reporting issues with performance especially on older devices, I reviewed Walking Dead: The Game on both an iPad 3 and an iPhone 4S with no such issues.

What we like

• Engrossing game-play
• Atmospheric environments
• Great voice acting
• Intuitive controls

What to know

• No syncing between devices

Earlier in the week, Sprint reduced the price of the iPhone 4S down to $149 on its website, likely in preparation of Apple’s announcement of iPhone 5 release date, next month. Apple’s prices remained steady even as carriers began to make changes, remaining at the $199/$299/$399 for the iPhone 4S, $99 for the iPhone 4, and free for the iPhone 3GS, all with a 2 year contract. However, now that Apple will be following suit and reducing prices on the 4S as well.

On Thursday, MacRumors reported that Apple would be reducing the price of the iPhone 4S and iPhone 4 models by $49.01, lowering the prices to $149.99/$249.99/$349.99 iPhone 4S, $49.99 for the iPhone 4, and free for the 3GS respectively. This offer is valid only when a customer requests for a price match and shows an offer for a lower priced iPhone.

Apple, with the latest discounts at its retail stores will now be leveling its prices with carriers and retailers across the country, and preparing to clear stock for upcoming iPhone 5 release date announcement. Apple’s price match discounts, according to the report, will only be available in Apple’s Retail Stores only. It is very likely that Apple will also extend this to their online store several weeks prior to the iPhone 5 release date.

Apple’s next generation iPhone 5 is expected to be released on September 12th and with numerous news outlets and sources confirming this, it appears that such a release is imminent. On Monday, Sprint went ahead and quietly lowered the price of the iPhone 4S to $149 with a 2-year contract.

This price drop was first noted by AllThingsD, and is most likely in response to recent rumors. Sprint is the third carrier to service the iPhone in the United States, after AT&T which has had the iPhone since 2007 and Verizon since the release of the iPhone 4. Sprint is also waving the initial $36 activation fee and is making this deal only available through their website.

It is unclear why Sprint has chosen to lower the price, however, it is very likely in reponse to the release of the iPhone 5 next month or simply the fact that Sprint has purchased too many iPhone’s and is looking to earn back any form of profit from the initial investment. It is interesting to note, however, that the iPhone 4S is still at its $199 price on Apple’s Online Store.

{via MacRumors}

Apple is expected to introduce the iPhone 5 next month, with reports that there may also be two new cases introduced alongside the fifth gen iPhone. However, prior to this announcement, Apple has added a new color to the Bumper case line-up, the first change to case line since its introduction with the iPhone 4. On Tuesday, Apple went ahead and added a (PRODUCT) RED version of the Bumper case for the iPhone 4S / 4 to the already available assortment of colors.

Currently, Apple offers black, white, blue, pink, orange, and green, all of which were introduced in 2010 and did not experience any major changes, aside from a change in ringer switch size to accommodate the iPhone 4S.

This is not the first time that Apple is offering (PRODUCT) RED products, with the Cupertino company offering a red iPod nano and Shuffle, iPad Smart Covers, iTunes Gift Cards and now the Bumper. (PRODUCT) RED products from Apple sends a portion of the sale goes towards the Global Fund in helping to fight AIDS in Africa. The red iPhone 4S / 4 Bumper is currently shipping in 4-6 days from the Apple Online Store, as opposed to the normal Bumper which ships in 24 hours.

{via 9to5 Mac}

Apple’s next generation iPhone 5  is expected to be releases later this fall and numerous news reports and images spreading across the web suggest that the announcement is imminent.

On Monday, a report from AppleInsider speculated that Apple is in fact already working on accessories for the upcoming iPhone 5 release. The report mentions that the first case is likely a Bumper case, which was introduced with the iPhone 4 and would likely be adjusted to fit the larger 4 inch screen of the next gen iPhone.

However, the second case is reportedly a new and different design and is said to have “major impact on the accessory market.”. iLounge reported that while the case would disrupt third party case makers, the design would not be “hugely surprising”. Further speculation suggests there may even be a kickstand included in the case, as seen in some third party cases available for the iPhone 4S.

Early Monday, a report from iMore suggested that Apple’s sixth generation iPhone, as well as the rumored iPad Mini and perhaps even a new 5th gen iPod touch would be announced on September 12th. Apple announced availability of the Bumper case on the same day as the iPhone release, and released the Smart Cover on the release day of the iPad 2, so it is very likely that this iPhone 5 release would follow suit.

The next generation iPhone, being called the “iPhone 5” is expected to sport a larger 4 inch display, a smaller dock connector, as well as other minor changes including placement of headphone jack and FaceTime camera. The iPhone 5 is expected to be released alongside the public release of iOS 6.

The release date of iPhone 5 and iPad Mini has been the cause of speculation for several months now. Multiple news sources and rumor sites have found images, mockups, and even parts of iPhone 5 and iPad mini. According to a report from iMore, Apple’s next generation iPhone 5, new iPod nano, and all new 7.85 inch iPad mini are all going to be announced during special media event on September 12th.

The iPad mini will be announced at the same September 12 event, as will the new iPod nano. We haven’t heard a release date for the iPad mini yet, but it could be the same as the iPhone 5. It seems likely the new iPod touch will make an appearance on September 12 as well, though we haven’t heard any specific information about that yet either.

The report also mentions that following the announcement on the 12th, Apple will likely release the iPhone 5 for sale on September 21st. Apple announced the iPhone 4S on October 4th last year, and released it on October 14th leading to speculation that the company may do the same again and release the iPhone a couple of weeks after announcement.

Although in reports, the next generation iPhone is referred to as “iPhone 5”, it is also very likely that Apple will simply call it “the new iPhone”, much like “the new iPad”, released several months ago. The report also notes that the 7.85” iPad and even iPod touch 5th gen is slated for announcement that day, although details on the 5th gen iPod touch are not confirmed. The iPad mini was entirely rumor based initially, a number of credible reports from NYTimes and WSJ have essentially suggested that there is indeed such a device in existence.

The sixth generation iPhone is expected to have a taller 4-inch screen, high speed LTE networking, a smaller dock connector and unibody construction. iMore has a proven track record with release dates, correctly reporting the launch date for the iPad 3 and the pre-order date for the iPhone 4S.

{via MacRumors}

Apple’s next generation iPhone 5 has been the source of intense speculation and the driving force of the rumor mill. On Friday, the rumors continued following a report from The Verge, after the site acquired images of what appears to be an iPhone protoype. The images were cited in a court document in Apple’s extensive court battle with Samsung.

The images show an iPhone prototype with a taller screen, smaller dock connector, and two-toned back plate, the same design details revealed several weeks ago. The image (above) on the right is the image acquired by the publication and shows the prototype, while the one on the left is a mockup from design firm BlackPool Creative, which created the model based purely on rumors and leaked parts.

The leaked parts were first seen in a video from mobile parts seller E-Trade Supply, which showed the new iPhone 5 backplate next to a current iPhone 4S.

Apple’s latest design, based on rumors and leaked parts appears to combine a number of design aspects from previous generations of iPhone, including the metal backing from the original iPhone and the flat form factor from the 4 and 4S.

Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 5 sometime during the September timeframe alongside the public version of iOS 6 as well as an iPad Mini and a tweaked iPad.

{via MacRumors}

Since the introduction of Apple’s popular iPhone 4S last October, the company has gone ahead to air a number of ads for the smartphone’s groundbreaking personal assistant, Siri. Late Monday, Apple began to air a new commercial for Siri, this time using a different celebrity, director and producer Martin Scorsese.

Scorsese is best known for his work in popular and classic movies such as Goodfellas, Taxi Driver, and Raging Bull. In the ad, Scorsese uses Siri to search for traffic in Manhattan, find his friend, and reschedule appointments. The ad begins with Scorsese in a cab in New York City and continues on as follows:

Scorsese: What’s my day look like?

Siri: Another busy day today.

Scorsese: Are you serious?

Siri: Yes, I’m not allowed to be frivolous.

Scorsese: Ah, OK. Move my 4 o’clock today to tomorrow. Change my 11AM to 2.

Siri: OK, Marty. I scheduled it for today.

Scorsese: Is that Rick? Where’s Rick?

Siri: Here’s Rick.

Scorsese: Oh, no that’s not Rick. Now, how’s the traffic headed downtown?

Siri: Here’s the traffic.

Scorsese: Oh, it’s terrible, terrible. Driver, driver, cut across. Cut across. We’ll never make it downtown this way. I like you Siri, you’re going places.

Siri: I’ll try to remember that.

In the ad, Scorsese uses many apps, including Find My Friends, Maps, and Calendars. The ad then ends with Scorsese complementing Siri, saying, “I like you Siri, you’re going places” and Siri responding, “I’ll try to remember that”.

This is the fourth and most recent celebrity ad done by Apple to promote Siri. Apple has done Siri/iPhone 4S ads with Samuel L. Jackson, Zooey Deschanel and, John Malkovich in the past.

{via MacRumors}