Mark Bridge writes:
Samsung launched a new flagship Android smartphone last week, eschewing Roman numerals and calling it the Galaxy S4. Well, it was never really going to be the SIV, was it?
It’s faster, slimmer and better-specified than its predecessor, boasting a 5-inch HD screen and a 13 megapixel camera. Incremental improvements rather than game-changing, I’d say. Doesn’t stop me from wanting one.
BlackBerry is also the producer of very desirable handsets according to a recent announcement. It’s received an order for one million devices… but isn’t saying much more. Most assumptions seem to be centred on Z10 smartphones for the US government.
Departures have been in the news, with CEO Didier Lamouche of mobile semiconductor specialist ST-Ericsson resigning “to pursue other opportunities”, Andy Rubin moving away from his work with the Android operating system to a new role at Google and Vodafone choosing not to renew its sponsorship deal with McLaren after the 2013 Formula 1 motor racing season finishes.
Finally, last week ended well for O2, Lebara and Samsung. All three won multiple prizes at the Mobile News Awards 2013, which were held in London on Thursday night.
O2 picked up trophies for Best Network Operator, Best Advertising Campaign and Most Innovative Service, while Samsung walked off with Best Manufacturer and Most Innovative Product. Lebara was rewarded with Best MVNO and the Community & Social Enterprise award.
We’ll be talking more about the event in this week’s podcast.
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