Smart talking The Touch2 (pictured, left), from Taiwan's HTC, is one of the first 3.5G smartphones to be released with Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6.5 software. Users get more efficient messaging, with the ability to check and manage multiple e-mail accounts, and faster browsing, thanks to the redesigned Internet Explorer Mobile. The handset also supports Microsoft's free My Phone service, used to automatically back up and synchronise photos, music, contacts and text messages. The Touch2, which has a 2.8-inch touchscreen and a 3.2-megapixel camera, is priced at HK$3,298.
Home movies Philips is setting a trend in high-definition viewing with its ultra-widescreen Cinema 21:9 (top right) - the first television screen with the same 21:9 aspect ratio as used in cinemas.
Traditional widescreens compromise on the cinematic viewing experience either by changing the aspect ratio to fill the screen - losing the full scope of the original shot - or by inserting distracting black bars, known as letterboxing, at the top and bottom of the screen. By contrast, the 56-inch Cinema 21:9 displays a movie as the makers intended. Its Ambilight technology projects ambient lighting from the set's top and sides, immersing the viewer in the picture. The Cinema 21:9, which comes with Wi-fi support, costs HK$49,990.
Kindle interest Online retail giant Amazon.com has started shipping its much-coveted Kindle electronic book reader (bottom right) to international markets. The device, previously only available in North America, uses the same 3G networks as advanced mobile phones, so there's no need for Wi-fi access to download books, magazines, newspapers and personal documents.
The 283-gram Kindle's two-gigabyte memory can store up to 1,500 non-illustrated digital books, while its high-resolution six-inch electronic ink display looks and reads like real paper. The Kindle sells for US$279 at www.amazon.com/kindle. International shipments are subject to customs duties, import taxes and other fees.
GADGET CORNER
