Samsung announced the details of the Galaxy Tab at the IFA technology show held in Berlin. Compared to Apple iPad, the Galaxy Tablet PC from Samsung is much smaller in size, yet it matches or surpasses most functionalities of Apple iPad. There are rumors that some of the features of Samsung Galaxy Tablet are much more advanced compared to those of the iPad. Especially, both the tablet PCs can also connect to the Internet on the go via a mobile phone network. Owners would have to buy the mobile phone connection separately. Both the the Galaxy Tab and the iPad also have similar functionality of having access to the Webt free of charge via Wi-fii hotspots. Galaxy will also support Flash video, camera connection and easy access to book, music and application stores. Galaxy is based on the immensely popular Android operating system, which is giving a stiff challenge to Apple’s proprietary technology.

Samsung has not quoted any official price for its Galaxy Tablet PC yet, however Samsung Sales agents suggest the price to be around US$250. The price would be somewhere in between that of smart phones and the net books & laptop PCs.

Historically, Apple gadgets succeeded in the market because of their easy to use interface, stylish and awesome looks, and availability of applications – specialist Apps –that could be downloaded for free or purchased for a small price.

The Apps which range from simple navigation and maps to shopping services and games enhance the functionality of Apple devices making them essential in these modern day world.

What it means to the people at large? More and more techno-giants would be launching iPad lookalikes to get a slice of the newly established tablet PC market. This could mean a break of price war which is in favor of the users. It could also mean that more and more functions would be supported on these iPad lookalikes, and that could mean a shorter usable life of these devices.

Technorati Tags: Apple iPad, iPad clone, iPad lookalikes

iPad has become a very popular gadget these days, but it is incomplete without some essential accessories that offer some protection or extra functionality to your iPad.  One of the most essential accessories is the iPad case.  The iPad hard cases are the most practical cases when compared to other cases for iPad.  Apart from protecting your iPad , the iPad hard cases give a different style and looks to your iPad.  A good quality hard case provides direct access to your device and helps to get a better grip, with the some kind of texture or rubberized backing.  So there is no need to worry about your iPad slipping out of your hands.  Investing in a iPad hard case will definitely add robustness to your iPad.  Here are some recommended iPad hard cases for your iPad.

Otterbox Defender iPad Case

Otterbox Defender is the most cutting-edge iPad case available in market that makes your iPad drop-proof.  The main feature of Otterbox defender case is that it incorporates three shock protective layers which give hardcore protection to your iPad.  These layers include hard outside plastic shell with stand, a silicon shell and a thin film for the screen.  These layers will offer the utmost protection for your iPad without having to worry about any damages.  It has a removable tab which allows quick access to the dock connector.  So you need not remove your iPad from the case while charging.  The integrated stand gives proper support for your iPad while watching a video or movie and it makes the browsing more comfortable.  If you want the ultimate protection for your iPad, Otterbox Defender is the best choice available at $89.

Hard Candy Cases Street Skin

Hard Candy Street Skin offers strong protection for your iPad with its 3mm shock-absorbing TPU rubber at the corners and edges with a case material that won’t stretch or tear.  Hard Candy Cases Street Skin is really a strong hard case for iPad.  It’s rugged rubberized texture like the alligator skin gives your ipad a better grip and looks.  An integrated screen protector of the case entirely protects your iPad when not in use and it is easy to use in any kind of situation.  It is available in clear, black and pink and you can get it for only $39.

Speck Fitted case for iPad

Speck makes one of the best cases for iPad.  Speck Fitted case is a classic high quality hard case for iPad which will fit your iPad tightly and yet keep all ports and controlsaccessible.  The fabric wrapped finish makes the case looks attractive and fashionable and can go with your outfit, tie or scarf.  You can get this stylish and impressive soft touch hard case for just  $33.44.  Speck’s Fitted cases are the best way to create your own signature style and add protection too.

We hope you find this review of top iPad Hard cases a useful one.

The iPad is an amazing tablet PC developed by Apple that is revolutionizing the computing world.  iPad can be used for listening to your favorite songs, checking your email, surfing the net, watching videos or even viewing your picture albums.  However, because of its slim design, ithe iPad does not come with the accessories that are desirable.  That’s why thousands of third-party accessory makers have flooded the market with iPad accessories and peripherals soon after the iPad was launched.  However, not all these accessories are essential for the iPad.  Here are what we think some of most essential iPad accessories you should buy if you want to get the most out of your favorite new toy.

iPad Screen Protector

The first iPad accessory you should invest in would be an iPad screen protector.  The screen is probably the most vulnerable portion of your iPad, and you need to keep it in pristine condition in order to get the most out of it. Screen protectors are cheap and easy to work with, and they will provide a lot of value and protection.  Invisible scratch free protective shields are also available for iPad from makers like Zagg.

iPad Cases and Sleeves

The next thing you must buy is a Case or skin for your iPad.  People that travel a lot, and those who want to carry their iPad with them to cafe or office will definitely need a carrying case or sleeve.  This will allow you to easily carry your iPad without having to worry about dropping it or damaging it.  Typically iPad cases are hard and snap-on over the unit while skins are  soft and flexible.  Both provide protection against bumps and scratches and will ensure that your iPad is protected, and also make it look more attractive.

iPad Dock

The iPad dock from Apple is one of the most bought iPad accessories.  It currently sells for $29.  The iPad dock is a handy add-on to hold the iPad upright especially when you’re using it for a long duration like when you watch movies.  The iPad dock has more applications than just docking it on your desk for the right viewing angle.  You can use it as a picture frame while it’s charging or syncing your iTunes library.

iPad Camera Connection Kit

A camera connection kit should be your next priority.  iPad lacks the ability to transfer photos from your camera onto your iPad.  However, you can overcome this missing feature with a Camera Connection Kit.  This kit hass two iPad dock connectors: one that connects directl

Technorati Tags: iPad accessories, iPad, iPad cases, iPad dock

At this point, your gorgeous looking Apple iPad may be like your sweetheart.  You love it, coo over it and take care of it;  nevertheless, at some point it’s going to be yet another device much like your cell phone.  There are actually good odds that your little one could possibly toss it into your bath tub or you might get caught in rains with no protection for your iPad.  Here are a few most awesome guidelines you should know in case your iPad or some other electronic gadget gets wet.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2d1VALRfIk

• Take out iPad from water.  That is the first apparent step.
• Don’t touch any buttons
• Don’t turn the iPad on, if it’s off.
• Take the iPad out from the case, should it be in one, and drain out all excess water.  Dry your iPad using a soft towel, and power it down as quickly as possible.
• You may use a hair dryer on very low heat setting to dry up as much of the water as possible.  Take off the batteries from your iPad.
• Put the iPad in a bag of uncooked rice grain for around two to three days -- the longer the better -- to complete drying out.  The rice grain will absorb any moisture that is remaining inside your iPad and will ultimately leave it totally dry.

After about three days, try to turn on the iPad to see whether it functions properly.  You might have to charge it prior to turning it on.  If that doesn’t work, you may have to place your iPad inside a plastic bag along with several silica gel packets for another 2-3 days.

Even after performing all these steps, if your iPad doesn’t work, you should call Apple support or visit their service center for further assistance.  And if you want to avoid all such disappointments, it is better to take proper care of your iPad by investing in a waterproof case for iPad.

Technorati Tags: iPad, Apple iPad

Well, to all the proud owners if iPad, here is something to rejoice.  All iPad owners have constantly been worried about their iPad screen getting scratched or getting covered with dust.  But the screen protector produced by Zagg which is invisible has come as a great boon to all the iPad users since it acts as a protective shield.  This wonderful invisible shield is used to cover both the display screen and backside of the iPad.  The Zagg invisible shield is made from an ultra-tough, patented film which is thin and transparent, which is designed to offer unmatched protection from scratches.

Applying the Zagg Invisible Shield  is a onetime exercise, which explains its durability.  As a matter of fact, Zagg provides a lifetime guarantee on this shield and the shield can be immediately replaced in case the shield wears or gets scratches. The screen also matches all the contours of iPad perfectly.

How to fix the Zagg Invisible Shield to your iPad?

Now let us see as to how we can fix the invisible shield on the front and back of the iPad.  It is very easy to install the Zagg invisible shield.  Before we begin the actual procedure, it is necessary to take certain precautions.  First and foremost, ensure the room is dust free. You need to wash your hands properly and make them dry. You need to wear proper clothing which is dust free.

Now unpack the invisible shield package and other than the iPad and two invisible sheets, nothing should be near you.  Along with the package, you will also find the installation fluid and an instruction manual.  The invisible sheet is of very fine texture and very smooth which requires a liquid to sit on the front and back surface of the gadget.  First, you must clean the display of the iPad and ensure that it is dust free.  After that, just smear your fingertips with the installation fluid to prevent your fingerprints from getting attached to your display.  Then slowly remove the fine plastic film which is attached to the sheet and smear it with a few drops of installation fluid.  This is required so that the fine invisible plastic film can nicely sit on the surface.  In case, there is excess installation fluid on the sheet allow it to drip off.  After that, slowly and steadily, make the invisible sheet sit on the display of the iPad.

It is important to remove all the excess fluids and air bubbles that may be trapped beneath the sheet.  You need to be very patient and during the course of time all the air bubbles and excess fluids will automatically vanish.  Keep a dry piece of cloth near you and gently run it over the sheet to remove the excess fluids.  When doing so, the fluids tend to accumulate near the fine edges and flow out.  To prevent your device from getting moist, immediately remove the little drops of fluids near the edges with the help of a cloth.  Once this procedure is over, the instruction manual suggests that we need to leave the device alone for a good twelve to twenty four hours in order to completely get it dry.  The same procedure should be followed for applying the invisible sheet to the back of the iPad.

Buying an iPad for $500+ is a serious investment and an investment like that needs a serious protection.  The invisible shield from Zagg offers the perfect protection for your iPad at a very low price.  If you wish to buy the invisible sheet separately for the front and back of the iPad, then each sheet would cost $30 each.  However,  if you buy Zagg invisible shield here, the pair costs less than $20! Definitely, this invisible shield is a great buy and worth its money.  And the best thing is that it comes with a 30 day money back guarantee, and lifetime replacement warranty!

Apple Inc. assert that their iPad batteries are good enough for 10 hours on a single charge.  True, but when you are in a remote place or traveling without any facility to get your iPad battery charged, it could disturb your entire schedule.  In such conditions, an external iPad battery comes handy.  Here we will look at some good external batteries with charger for your iPad as well as some easy and practical tips to extend iPad battery life.

So if you are at an airport and can not find any AC plugs for charging your iPad or if you’re traveling in your car and don’t want to waste time in parking lot for charging your iPad, you should go for this light weight, small and durable High Capacity Battery Pack from Gomadic.  It has high capacity rechargeable batteries in a very compact case – just the size of a playing card deck, and weighs only 7.2 ounces.

iPad batteries are made of Lithium polymer and they are extremely sensitive to heat.  These batteries are also sensitive to extreme cold conditions.  Therefore, you should be very careful and should not leave your iPad inside the parked cars during summer.  This reduces the lifespan of a battery to a great extent.  There is one more important point to note. Whenever, you charge the iPad, just ensure that the iPad does not get too hot and never charge an iPad with its cover on.

There is no doubt that the iPad screen is a beautiful work of engineering.  But, when the brightness of the screen is high, definitely the life of the iPad battery is drained.  This problem can be overcome by visiting the Settings option on the screen and thereby doing the necessary arrangements.  Switching off the auto brightness facility is a great way to increase your battery life.  It is also highly recommended that; use Wi-Fi only if it is absolutely essential.  It is a good practice to switch off the Wi-Fi in places where there are no networks and hence increases the life of your battery.  To do this, go to the Settings option, choose Wi-Fi and turn it off.

In the same way, when you do not require your network for doing any kind of work, it is advisable to switch off the 3G and this would definitely increase the life of your iPad battery.  In order to do so, just go to the Settings option, choose the Cellular Data option and switch it off.  Irrespective of whether you are using 3G or Wi-Fi, the iPad always ties to stay connected to any kind of network.  In case you are traveling in an area where the network connectivity is low, the iPad tends to use all the battery power to stay connected thereby reducing the battery life.  In order to prevent this, just go to the Settings option on the screen, choose the Airplane Mode option and turn it off.

Running too many applications on the iPad can also reduce its battery life to a great extent.  Applications like instant messaging which are used for communicating depend a great deal on the Push Notifications option, which in turn reduces the battery life.  It is a great idea to turn off this option, when you are not using any applications.  We have tried to list some of the best ways to increase the life span of the iPad batteries and a proper use of the iPad when it is required would definitely contribute to long battery life expectancy.

One noteworthy accessory for the iPad from Philips is the Netbook/iPad sleeve with HeatProtect.  It has a dual purpose.  It can protect your iPad or  netbook while you are traveling and it can also work as a hardtop cooling surface when you’re using your iPad on your lap.  It’s top side is flat, which can be used as a stable surface for resting your iPad. And its soft underside offers comfort when you are using your iPad on your lap.  Philips’ HeatProtect technology prevents heat buildup with its heat insulating layers, thus protecting your iPad from any possible damage.  Soft interior padding and rubber zipper pulleys will protect your iPad from scratches and bumps during normal handling.

Philips also offers another Slim Sleeve for iPad that is a leatherette soft neoprene case.  This iPad sleeve has a flap that folds over keeping the iPad intact. Extra protection is provided by the leatherette material for the iPad’s glass screen.  This stylish case designed like an envelope with Velcro closure will keep your iPad safe inside with a sophisticated slim look.  Leatherette with soft inner padding offers double protection for your iPad’s glass display without unwanted bulk.

Among other iPad accessories announced by Philips include new audio devices too.  One of them is a portable speaker and the other is earphones which have bass enhancement.  Philips has also developed a screen protector for the iPad which does not affect its multi-touch functionality.  It is supposed to be virtually invisible but noticeably different as claimed by the company.

Although it would have been great if Apple had decided to integrate these in the iPad, maybe they did not include it to make the iPad slim.  Some people are of the opinion that it was deliberately left out so that Apple could sell more iPad accessories.  There will most likely be an eruption of camera connection kits for iPad in the market soon.

The iPad Camera Connection Kit allows you to import photos & videos from the digital media source to your iPad.  It is great news for amateur as well as professional photographers. Moving between albums and individual photos in iPad has become so easy and pleasurable.  It can be done with a tilt, a pinch and a zoom.

The SD card reader enables you to import movie files and pictures easily from the SD card which can be put in the camera.  One would be able to swap images between different people with ease.  This is a good feature as the memory card that is standard for many deices is the SD card.  It serves as a dongle and allows storage expansion.

The iPad allows you to interact with photos in ways which are unlike anything before.  It is a very intuitive gadget for navigating through images and uploading them on the web.  Although the official iPad accessory is the’ iPad camera connection kit’, it is predicted that a lot of alternative devices should be developed by other suppliers for the market.

You can buy the iPad camera connection kit online here.

A  recent article by PCMag about the iPad mentions that it is the tech-savvy women and Gen-X moms who hold the buying power would be responsible for iPad’s success.  The iPad accessory makers have also noted this fact and many of them have come up with stylish feminine iPad accessories such as iPad cases and sleeves designed just for the women.  In this post we are presenting some of the cool, trendy iPad sleeves for women available in the market.

Built NY iPad Sleeve

Built’s iPad Sleeve are available in bright colors and stylish looks.  This iPad sleeve is made from defensive neoprene material which makes it light yet protective.  Normally a laptop compartment dimension is 10.7″ x 8.4″ x 0.9″ and this sleeve size is 11.4″ x 8.7″ x 1″, so you do not have to worry whether these sleeves will fit your iPad/laptop or not.

The soft inner coating of BUILT’s Neoprene iPad Sleeve can protect your iPad from shocks and scratches.  BUILT’s Neoprene iPad Sleeve will protect your iPad from scratches and bumps.  It makes you carefree while you are attending meeting or you are at café.  You do not have to remove your iPad sleeve in airports at checkpoint if you are using Built NY iPad sleeve.  You can easily attach it to your baggage as it is lightweight.  This Built NY iPad Sleeve is available for only $23.99

Designer Sleeves

8.9″ -10″ Designer iPad Sleeve is designed for the ipad or netbook of 8.9″ to 10″ size.  The rich and full color graphics gives a cool look to your iPad or netbook.  You can select laptop matching skin from these designer sleeves.  Skin of designer sleeves can be easily removed and can express your style. T he removable skin can be easily reused again and again.

Durable neoprene materials in this iPad accessory protect your iPad from utmost moisture and shocks.  Designer Sleeve can slide with ease in and out of your briefcase or backpack.  Zippered external pocket provides storage for power cords and also scratch protection.  These Designer Sleeves for iPad are available for only $23.99

iPad Bubble Sleeve- Hard Candy

iPad Bubble Sleeve is right now available in three different colors Pink ,Green and Black.  This iPad sleeve is constructed from EVA foam.  This Hard Candy Zippered case makes it easier to move your iPad in or out of its sleeve.  Sleek and molded exterior of iPad Bubble Sleeve is soft to the touch.

iPad Bubble Sleeve have odd looks because of the bubble design on the top.  However, you get a total protection with this Hard Candy as the semi spheres of this bubble design are filled with gel which can absorb shock impacts very well.  This sleeve is bit costly compared to the former Designer Sleeves or Built NY iPad Sleeve due to its complex design.  Currently the orange color Hard Candy has the black interior.  This Hard Candy iPad Bubble Sleeve is availale for $49.95

You will get warranty against any manufacturer defects for all these ipad sleeves.  You can buy all these cool iPad sleeves here.

Apple’s iPad at a price tag of US$500 and up has become a huge hit in just two moths after it had been launched.  For a device that has cost you quite a bit you will definitely want to ensure that it is safe and is given the right kind of protection to prevent it from getting wet or soiled.  There are plenty of iPad accessories in the market that purport to be the perfect case, bag or cover for your iPad, but we would recommend the following three iPad Cases/Bags for you, that we feel are awesome – fashionable and functional.

1. iPad Protective Carrying Case from USA Gear

For the discerning customer, USA Gear has introduced the ideal case which is made specially for the Apple iPad.  The interior FlexWall is made to hold the iPad conveniently like a glove.  Space within is sufficient to hold the iPad Connection Kit, the Dock and the USB Power Adapter.  The exterior of the case is made from thick nylon that shields the iPad and protects it from bad weather and any scrapes, bumps or drops.  There is an additional pocket on the outside to keep other related accessories.  This cool looking iPad case comes with a shoulder strap for you to carry your iPad anywhere very conveniently.

The key features of this iPad case include specially made external pockets to keep your iPad accessories in one place.  The heavy duty zipper helps in holding all these in place.  The internal pockets are made of mesh having zippers. The interior FlexWall can be customized to the dimensions of the iPad. The internal pocket has a soft and scrape resistant lining to guard the iPad’s delicate exterior.  The USA Gear Protective Carrying Case comes with a 3 year warranty and is inclusive of a Blower Brush and a Micro Fiber Cleaning Cloth.

2.  A Shoulder Carrying Leather iPad Case from Simplism

This awesome looking  case for the Apple iPad is available in Chocolate Black colour.  The leather case is made of genuine leather and has a luxurious feel. It is guaranteed to protect your iPad from getting scratches or collecting dust. The external coating of the case is glossy and has great visual appeal.  The elegant styling and classy finish is of very high quality and is aesthetic in looks.

A leather shoulder strap that is removable and adjustable comes as an addition to the leather case.  The leather case for the iPad is specially constructed with concealed plates to pad and absorb shocks.  These plates are larger in size in comparison with the iPad to offer it complete protection at all corners.

The construction is special because all connectors and buttons can be accessed by just opening the flap 180 degrees without removing the iPad from its case.  The speaker and sensors are uncovered for you to enjoy your music.  The frame is visible and wide open to allow easy tapping or typing.

3. Tuff-Luv iPad bag

This special iPad bag has been specifically engineered for iPad users.  Its 14 compartments are more than able to accommodate all the accessories one generally throws into a laptop bag.  There is a special micro-fibre cloth integrated specially to clean your screen and keyboard dust-free.  Comes with shoulder and hand strap.  It is available in two colors – Black and Mocha.