OtterBox: The Best Protection for Mobile Devices

OtterBox Logo

I decided to buy a new smartphone (Droid RAZR Maxx) to ensure another two years of unlimited data with Verizon Wireless; and with that came a decision on what kind of case to put on my phone.  At $49.95, I decided to purchase the OtterBox Defender Series case.  I had always been skeptical about high-priced cases for cell phones and other mobile devices, but I decided to go with the OtterBox this time since the front of the case is its own screen protector.  Another brand of case and a pack (they only come in two or three packs it seems) of screen protectors would have been almost as much money, but would also be a hassle to get a screen protector on without air bubbles and dust underneath.  After having the phone for two weeks, the screen has stayed clean (no dust / moisture underneath).  However, I decided to take some time and do a little more research on how durable these products really are.

Google Maps vs. Apple Maps: What's The Difference?

Google Maps vs. Apple Maps

Google Maps is available on both the Android and the Apple device - but Apple is making their move away from the Big G after it announced its release of Maps for iOS 6.   This service will replace Google Maps on the Apple smartphone.

So what are the main differences between Maps for Apple and Google Maps?

The HTC EVO 3D: Unleashed and Unmatched

Raise your hand if you like 3D? Alright, put your hand down because you are going to need both hands to play with this technology. HTC is adding another king to their digital device dynasty. HTC will release the EVO in 3D in a store or stand near you on June 24, 2012 at 8am local time, which means that you no longer will be living a boring 2 dimensional digital life.

HTC EVO 3D: Releases June 24th, 2012

The iPhone may have Siri and iTunes, but the HTC EVO 3D captures your photos and videos in 3D, plus you can view them without the glasses! The 3D is delivered through a mesmerizing 4.3 QHD LCD touchscreen. Users can crate and share content through a Flash enabled web-browsing experience.

Other key features that feed this mobile beast include a 5MP camera, 4 GB of memory, 1 GB of RAM, 4G radios, a 1.2 GHz dual core processor which is all supplemented with HTC Sense 3.0. No other digital device can deliver stunning 3D and fit inside your pocket at less than 6 ounces with the battery. Talk time before re-charging is about 8.5 hours. To read full product reviews and explore the specs in detail click here.

Google Maps for Android - Going Offline?

Google Maps for Android

This post is short and sweet - but still awesome news.  Phil Nickinson's article at Android Central wrote that Google announced their plans to bring Google Maps offline on Android devices.  This has not been released yet, but will be something to come in the future.  This feature couldn't come at a better time - with everyone being gouged and many even losing unlimited data through their mobile providers.  Not only will Google Maps be available without a data connection, but it will still be able to offer full features, including zooming as far down as Street View.

Google also featured an Android-powered Street View backpack rig that allows imaging in areas that cars can't travel to.  This comes in addition to the work that Google has done on their Amazon Rainforest imaging project.

As a whole, Google is bringing their mapping software to more areas of the world at a lower cost for consumers (not having to use data on Android devices).  I can't wait to see what they do next.

Xbox Goes Mobile

Microsoft's Unveils Smart Glass

Today, Microsoft Corp. announced that they will begin offering music via their Xbox gaming console helping them become "the nexus of household entertainment" says Fox Business.  Microsoft is going to offer 30 million tracks via its new music service.  It is rumored that Microsoft is essentially killing off its own Zune service offered to its mobile users. Customers are already able to stream Netflix, ESPN, and limited other channels as long as they are an Xbox Live subscriber.  But now with Microsoft's new software, subscribers are going to be able to play games, surf the net, and gain access to extra content through their smartphones and tablets.