Top 5 smartphones of 2012

The top 5 smartphones of 2012 include the iPhone 5, Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, HTC 8X and HTC DROiD DNA

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It's been a wild year in the mobile world these last 12 months and we've seen some great advances in terms of design, software and mobile networks. But which smartphones stood out above the crowd?
Without any further ado, let's take a look at the five best smartphones of 2012.

iPhone 5

Why:
Apple has done it again with the iPhone 5, but this time, it comes with a larger screen and 4G LTE support. The design is elegant, the software is polished and filled with fun and exciting apps.
Apple continues to deliver a fantastic camera experience, as the iPhone 5 is one of the best shooters around. The only real negative we had was moving over to the Lightning connector because
From our official review:

"Phone calls sound loud and clear, battery life is unbelievably good for an LTE device and the overall software performance is great. The camera is really good at taking stills, and videos are equally good -- that microphone in the back even helps pick up better sound from the direction in which you're recording. The iPhone 5, for all that it can do in such a thin and lightweight package is truly a feat of engineering."
More information: 
iPhone 5: 30 Tips and Tricks

iPhone 5: One month in
iPhone 5: 10 must-have accessories
iPhone 5 User Guides

Galaxy S3

Why:
Samsung has created a smartphone that's every bit as good as the iPhone and in many ways, the Galaxy S3 surpasses Apple's darling. The Galaxy S3 sports a beautiful, 4.8-inch screen, is packed to the gills with every type of sensor and technology you'd want and the software has matured greatly.
Just as importantly, the Galaxy S3 has become a mainstream device that evokes anticipation and joy that used to only be reserved for iDevices. This Android superphone rightly deserves the adulation it's received. We're still not 100 percent in love with the plastic feel of the device, but the Galaxy S3 is unquestionably one of the best handsets this year.
From our official review: 
"I do love the Galaxy S III, and I'll be hanging onto it until Samsung starts sending me demand letters to get its review units back ... If you're in the market for an Android smartphone on AT&T and you haven't picked up the HTC One X yet, the Galaxy S III is a strong and solid bet."
More information:
Galaxy S3 Review
Galaxy S3 Premium Suite upgrade revealed
Samsung Galaxy S3: 30 Tips and Tricks
Galaxy S3 User Guides

Galaxy Note 2


Why:
Samsung pushed the limits on screen size and design but it paid off in spades. I was very skeptical that the 5.5-inch HD display would make the Note 2 unwieldy but Samsung delivered a spectacular device that really skirts the line between smartphone and tablet.
That screen size really comes in handy when you're trying to watch videos, multitask or type, and the intelligent Samsung software on top of Android also makes that extra real estate feel well used. Throw in the smart S Pen (stylus) and you have a device that's really appealing for many users. Some may still find it a bit large, though.
From our official review:
"The Galaxy Note II is a great smartphone because its performance is just ridiculous, battery life is great, reading and consuming multimedia content is great. The size is a pain in the rear sometimes and you really have to decide if all the benefits of the size outweighs the sacrifices you'll have to make. If you can get over the size, buy it. It's pretty good."
More information:
Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Review
Galaxy Note 2: 5 S Pen tips
Galaxy Note 2 User Guides
Galaxy Note 2: 5 things to love

HTC DROID DNA 


Why:
HTC continues to be on the bleeding edge of technology and the HTC DROID DNA is the first major handset with a 1080p HD screen. That's right, the 5-inch screen on the DROID DNA is probably better than your flat-screen television.
It's not just a pretty screen though (although, it is a killer display), as the DROID DNA has a powerful processor, 4G LTE, Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, all the goodies you'd expect in a smartphone and a high-quality camera. That large screen may be offputting for some who want a lighter footprint, but it's quite stunning to see how far we've come with these screens in our pockets.
From our official review:
"It is excellent for watching videos and looking at photos or browsing the Web. So I'd say it's for users who see their smartphones as entertainment and multimedia devices, more than anything else. Not that the DROID DNA isn't capable of much else, but I have to keep coming back to that big, sharp display."
More information:
HTC DROID DNA Review
HTC DROID DNA vs. Apple iPhone 5
Best Verizon smartphones for the holidays
HTC DROID DNA User Guides

HTC 8X


Why:
The HTC 8X has probably the best in-hand feel of any phone on the market. Seriously, this is how a smartphone is supposed to rest in your hands -- it feels extremely comfortable but also like you're holding a premium device.
The rest of the device isn't too shabby, either. You have a nice, 4.3-inch display, internals that can match the competitors and 4G LTE for blazing fast speeds. It also sports Windows Phone 8 and this is a refreshing way to do your mobile computing on the go but you will be sacrificing app selection in the short term.
From our official review:
"If you're looking for your first smartphone, the Windows Phone 8X by HTC should definitely be on your list but not if you're the type who wants the latest and greatest apps. Switching over from iPhone or Android may also be painful for similar reasons but the fresh look and feel of Windows Phone 8 and this HTC device may make that sacrifice worth it."

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Best iPhone 5 apps

You got an iPhone 5 for Christmas, yay! Here are the best apps to get started

Apple's iPhone 5 is one gift we're pretty sure you won't be returning this year. So, power that thing up and let's get started with some essential apps:

Pulse

Sick of tabbing back and forth between your favorite news sites and social networks? Let pulse ease your browser burden. The news-oriented app allows you to select from several different categories based on different interests (tech, food and fashion, to name just a few) and then it rounds up the latest stories using that information. You can also add your favorite sites, blogs and social networks, and integrate directly with your RSS feed. And if that's not alluring enough, Pulse is easy on the eyes too.

Pinterest

I've heard plenty of folks say that Pinterest is for everyone, but let's get real here. Have you ever really looked around the site? It was very clearly designed with women in mind. And for that, I am thankful. Bros have their MMOs and us ladies have pins. And more pins. And OMG, even more pins. And we never have to give it a rest, either, thanks to this iPhone app, optimized for Apple's hottest new handset.

Fab

I'm listing Fab.com's app next because it's the perfect transition from Pinterest. You can pin a bunch of crap you want, and then you can sate that shopping bug straight from your iPhone 5 with Fab. And I promise, this one isn't just for the ladies, Fab has a little something for everyone - even your dog. From quirky tees and unique baubles to crazy kitchen gadgets and gourmet snacks, this popular shopping app has a knack for listing only the most interesting products. Each deal has a time limit and a quantity, so burn through that Christmas cash while you still can.

Tweetbot

You don't need to be a Twitter power user to justify this one, but it's likely you'll become one after using it a few times. Really, Tweetbot is like the enabler for all tweeting addicts. An insanely clean interface makes for an overall smooth experience, and smart gestures let you interact with optimal efficiency. You can also manage several timelines from one page, and create lists for those friends who you interact with the most.

Facebook

To be totally clear, I'm not including this because it's an amazingly designed app (it's not), I'm including it because it's frickin' Facebook. And a smartphone without Facebook is like a meme with no text; it just feels ... empty. In the sake of fairness, the social network is continually working to update its mobile apps, so we should see more improvements here soon. Most recently, the iPhone app was updated to include the ability to choose from specific photo albums when uploading from your phone.

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iPhone fuels crime in New York City

Apple's mobile devices cause spike in New York City crime rate

Apple's iPhone is creating buzz for reasons other than its ultra-thin hardware and expertly designed operating system; crime. Yep, that's right, Apple's mobile devices are so damn coveted that they've become a seriously scary hit with thieves.

According to a recent report from The Wall Street Journal, Apple products have helped fuel New York City's overall crime rate in 2012 is expected to increase for the first time in two decades.
Theft of personal electronic devices including Apple's iPhone was up a substantial amount at nine percent, while overall crime reflected an increase of three percent. NYPD spokesman Paul Browne told the Journal that without the spike in Apple thefts the city actually would have seen a "slight decline" in crime citywide. From the report:

"Overall crime in the five boroughs is up 3% so far this year, driven by the thefts of Apple products, Paul Browne, the department's top spokesman, confirmed. If Apple thefts had remained the same, "we would be experiencing a slight decline in crime citywide," Mr. Browne said. The number of shooting incidents so far this year has fallen 8.5%, and the number of shooting victims has dropped 10.2%."

NYC isn't the only place where iPhone crime is a thing, though (at least one iPhone robbery in Chicago resulted in a bystander's death). Nor is the iPhone Apple's only product causing sticky fingers; the iPad and iPad mini have proven just as appealing. Bottom line: If you own a new iPhone 5, watch your back. 

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Best apps for Samsung's Galaxy S3

Did the Galaxy S3 grace your Christmas tree this year? Get started with these stellar apps
Samsung's Galaxy S3 is still as hot as ever, it's OK that you're a little late to the game getting one. But let's not waste any more time; get started with these apps and you'll love your S3 like it just launched:

Pinterest
It was a wonderful day for the ladies of the internet when Pinterest FINALLY released a native Android app. And it wasn't long ago, either. Now the virtual pinup board for all things found, made and inspired can be carried around in your pocket. Stuck at the dentist's office or in line at the grocery store? Pin, pin, pin. Best of all, the app allows you to pin with your camera, satisfying the virtual hoarder in you in ways the website never could.

Paper Camera
Paper Camera is not just another photo filter app, and even if it is, it just may be the best one out there (oh yeah, we went there, Instagram). The post effects are sharp enough to fool even your most artistically inclined friends (why yes, I did draw that sketch of my dog), and with real-time cartoon effects you can finally view the world like the comic book you always wished it was. This app is fanciful, colorful and highly addictive.

Pocket
Remember back in the day how when you wanted to read a magazine article you had to bookmark it on your browser? Or, for the over 30 crowd, you had to actually physically pick up and carry said magazine around with you wherever you went? Well those days are long gone, thanks to read-it-later apps, and Pocket is a favorite in that highly competitive field. It saves anything and everything from articles to videos for later viewing in a clean and easy-to-read format. The Pocket app is shared across all your mobile devices, and best of all, you don't need an internet connection to use it.

Minecraft - Pocket Edition 
If you told me a couple of years ago that a pixilated cube building simulator would be one of the most popular games of 2011/2012 I probably would have told you to get your block examined. But Minecraft, developed by Mojang, is not just popular, it's also one of the most addictive indie games ever, and even harder to put down, thanks to the mobile Pocket Edition. The app version may not have all the lava-spewing goodies of the full PC/console game, but creation and adventuring options abound. Best of all the game is regularly updated and new features and options make the mobile experience never dull.

Fluid
I'll confess I've spent many an hour playing with the watery ripples of the Galaxy S3's lockscreen. It's mesmerizing. It's inviting. It's... what are we talking about? With Fluid you can now enjoy the meditative wonderment that is the S3's high resolution. This live wallpaper app is highly customizable and comes preloaded with lots of background choices. Smooth animation, HDMI support, responsive to your touch, this may just be the coolest wallpaper you've ever seen. And you thought you spent too much time staring at your phone already.

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Best tablet apps for toddlers

Keep the kids entertained with these iPad and Kindle Fire apps

Locking your kid up in a cage for a moment of silence may not be socially acceptable (or legal), but digital distractions are totally fair game. The next time you need 10 minutes (or, ummm, two hours) to yourself, hand over your tablet and keep the kiddos entertained with these iPad and Kindle Fire apps targeted toward toddlers.

iPad apps 

Scribble Press, $2.99

Want to encourage creativity in your little one? This is just the app to help Junior flex his artistic muscle. Scribble Press invites kids to tell their stories through their own drawings and words, which can later be turned into a digital book (printed copies are also available from the company's New York studio). Story templates are also available and include themes like "My Babysitter is a Zombie" and "The Dog Ate My Homework." The app's blank pages also serve well as a simple sketchbook when your tiny tot just wants to doodle.

Caillou Stickers!, 99 cents
As someone who isn't under the age of five, I have a really hard time pin-pointing the addictive nature of this app -- because honestly, there isn't that much going on here. But maybe that's actually the draw. Little minds can focus on the very basic task of choosing "stickers" and then dragging them into their preferred Caillou background (there are seven to choose from including a campground, birthday party, farm house and bus stop).

Juno's Piano, Free

Your budding musician get a jump start on traditional piano lessons with this instrumental iPad app. Juno's Piano takes a super simple approach in instructing the kiddos on basic tunes, and it won't charge you an arm and a leg by the hour like those stuffy old instructors. First, an animated pig-tailed girl jumps along the on-screen keys, and as each one lights up, that's little Susie's cue to follow along. Different colors represent different notes, and positive reinforcement (via audio) is awarded when the correct keys are played.

Read Me Stories, Free
When you're just too tired to read the same damn bedtime story for the twelfth time in a row, let Read Me Stories take over for you. The app is free to download and offers several themed story collections that can be purchased for a small fee once you're in (these average around $2). After that, a new story automatically downloads each day (but good luck getting your tiny tot to move on from her favorite fairytale). Kids can opt to read the book without any help, or choose the audio option to have it read aloud (each word is highlighted as its read, making it easy to follow along).

Kindle Fire apps

Kids Ultimate Finger Painting, Free
Nothing says hours of fun and entertainment (and free time for mom and dad) like finger painting. The downside? You're usually left with a massive mess to clean up afterward. But not any more thanks to tablet apps like Kids Ultimate Finger Painting. Hand over your Kindle Fire and let your toddler go crazy ... just make sure you've got a protective case on that thing. The app also contains various drag-and-drop puzzle games to help with hand-eye coordination.

Super Why!, $2.99
This one comes straight from the educational PBS show Super Why!, which teaches tiny tots to read. Geared toward kids ages three to six, the app contains a collection of interactive games with popular characters from the show including Alpha Pig, Princess Pesto, Wonder Pig and Super Why. When your toddler does well, she'll receive virtual stickers that can be placed for positive reminders in a digital sticker book.

My First Puzzles, $1.99
The title for this one couldn't be more apt, as the puzzles here are about as rudimentary as it gets. My First Puzzles can help kids with hand/eye coordination, while fun sound effects and sharp graphics keep them entertained. The app offers 14 different puzzles, all of a different animal. As soon as a puzzle is completed, an icon will appear with an image of it so little Johnny can easily remember which ones he's already mastered.

iStoryBooks, Free
This one is similar to the Read Me Stories app for iPad in that it serves as a mini digital library for the kiddos. iStorybooks offers several interactive children's books with an option for your toddler to try reading on his own, or to have the story read aloud to him. The illustrations are slick, and a new book is automatically downloaded every two weeks. iStoryBooks comes with a few pre-loaded options, but you can download additional content within the app.

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iPad kills Kindle in page views

Apple's iPad still dominates tablet Web traffic, despite more budget-friendly options

 

Tablet Web traffic is on the rise, which isn't at all surprising given the variety of budget-friendly options we now have. But despite that ever-growing list of choices, Apple's iPad still dominates page views like it's the only slate in existence. 

Analytics company Chitika found in its Dec. 2012 tablet market update that if it's not an iPad, it may as well be dead. According to the company's stats, for every 100 iPad page views, other tablets achieve just 14.75 views in total. That means that 87 percent of tablet Web traffic in North America can be chalked up to iOS. 

The iPad's big (that's a slight overstatement) runner up is currently Amazon's Android-based Kindle. But that's not really saying much at all, as we're only dealing with 4.88 page views for every 100 on Apple's iPad. It's almost painful just to read, isn't it? Still, a 4.25 percent share of overall tablet Web traffic isn't the worst for Kindle. It's just not exactly brag worthy. 

Samsung's Galaxy is in there somewhere, too, with just 3.04 page views for every 100 on the iPad; Google's Nexus comes in just after that at 1.22 views. As for the Nook and Playbook? Does it really even matter at this point? (They both come in under one). 

But, all good things must come to an end, right? Just how long can Apple continue riding this iPad Web traffic high? As Venture Beat points out, these numbers could certainly shift after post-holiday stats are in. 

So, which category do you fall in? Are you contributing to the iPad's insane Web traffic, or are you still in the minority with an Android-based tablet?

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Improve Windows 7 shutdown

Many of you may have already have your hands on Windows 7 and must be exploring it. For those of you who want the shutdown time to be much faster than what it is now, here is a simple registry tweak to make it faster.

Here’s how you can do it.

1. Click on Start and type regedit in search box. Just click on regedit which comes out as search result at top.

2. In the regedit, browse to the following Location:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControl

3. In the right pane, right click on WaitToKillServiceTimeout and click on Modify.

4. Type in a number between 2000-20000 (2-20 seconds) , The lesser number you type, more faster will be shutdown. The default value is 12000. Click on OK.

5. Now Close regedit.
6. Restart your PC and you are done. This must help you improve Windows 7 shutdown time by few seconds.

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