Looks like HTC’s trying to get back into the smartphone gold rush. Verizon’s newest prize was officially unveiled on November 3^rd of this year, the new HTC Rezound (formerly named Vigor).

Image: http://gadgetbox.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/14/8792014-htc-rezound-sound-test-its-crisp-and-clear

The HTC Rezound

HTC’s offering impressive specs for the new Rezound, but for the casual consumer this is only the tip of the iceberg. Along with the typical multimedia tools that the new generation of smartphones offers, the Rezound’s presenting itself as an all-in-one swiss army knife. While the 1.5GHz dual-core processor and 1GB or RAM are impressive, and the 16GB of internal storage, mobile hotspot capability handy, this isn’t what’s got me interested in the phone.

With all the features that it possesses, it seems like the Rezound is going against the trend of stick-thin smartphones. HTC does a good job of trimming the fat though, as the edges do taper so the phone feels slimmer than it actually is. Part of the reason for the thicker frame, is the 4.3 inch 720p display and 8 megapixel camera on the back which has 1080p video recording capabilities. So if you’re into blogging, or just simply want to keep memories, you can do this with the new Rezound… in high definition!

I think my favourite part of the $299 USD Rezound package though, is that it comes with your very own pair of Beats by Dr. Dre headphones. If used in your phone, it will automatically enable the Beats audio profile adding the extra kick that music junkie’s crave. So, not only can you enjoy your YouTube videos in 720p quality, you also have the option of listening to them in surround sound!

Overall, HTC’s done a good job of addressing some of the issues from its previous phones. They’ve tried to solve some of the camera issues in earlier devices, and have even suited the Rezound up with a longer lasting battery. The HTC Rezound will be available with a contract price of USD 299.

This post was written by Tsun Ng.

How many times have you promised yourself that you would get in shape and live a healthier life for your New Year’s Resolution?  How many times has your phone or computer gotten in the way of that? I know games and movies certainly have gotten in the way every so often.

The new Jawbone UP integrates technology into a stylish wristband that will get you moving towards a healthier lifestyle.

Image Source: http://www.ecouterre.com/jawbones-high-tech-up-wristband-encourages-healthy-living/

Features

Keeping with Jawbone’s tradition of fashionable products, the UP wristband’s got a sleek and simple look to it.  Using Bluetooth technology, all the physical activity that you do during the day is monitored and sent to the “LiveUP” app on your smart phone allowing you to track steps taken, calories burned etc. The UP’s not just a one trick pony, though.

The phone synchronization is standard in the new wave of physical exercise products.  However, what sets the UP apart from its competition is the commitment it has to enriching your lifestyle as a whole.  It pairs up with its app to create an interactive food journal for the user.

For example, it’s capable of tracking the amount of sleep that you get, whether it is deep vs. light sleep, amount of time awake or your overall quality of sleep.  So, get rid of that obnoxious ringtone you hate so much, and wake up refreshed with the UP’s silent smart alarm.  The UP’s sleep mode will wake you up as it vibrates on your wrist at the ideal moment in your natural sleep cycle.

With a choice of three sizes and seven different colours, there’s going to be no style compromise for even the most fashion forward individual.

This lifestyle changer will set you back $99, but you know what they say – you’re only given one lease on life.  So, I guess the only real question is.. What are you UP for?

This post was written by Tsun Ng.