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August 30, 2014

Mobility TechZone Week in Review

Smaller and more powerful computing devices are coming out almost every single day, with capabilities rivaling those of traditional laptop and even desktop computers. Because of this, more people are using mobile devices which is causing the sales to dramatically and exponentially increase. In an effort to take advantage of these sales, mobile carriers, developers and manufacturers are constantly trying to innovate and one-up one another. From just the past week's developments alone, here are the top headlines in the world of mobile technology.

Mozilla, the creators of the popular Firefox web browser, has just partnered with Intex and Spice to launch what could very well be the world's most affordable new smartphone. The Intex Cloud FX and the Spice Firefox OS phone use the newly developed Firefox Operating System to deliver all of the apps and calling features of a smartphone at price tags of $33 and $37 respectively. These hones will be marketed heavily towards the Indian domestic market, targeting first time smartphone buyers who have otherwise felt that smartphones were too expensive to purchase.

Meanwhile, a controversial bill in California was passed into law, requiring all smartphones to have security software that allows for a remote deactivation of the device installed before they hit consumers. This “Kill Switch” bill promises to increase the security of information stored on smartphones as well as to reduce the effectiveness of theft, since a user can report a stolen smartphone almost instantly to transform it into little more than a high-tech paperweight. Unfortunately the bill has also brought criticism from those saying criminals could use it to remotely hold phones for ransom, and that it will ultimately drive up the retail cost of a smartphone in the state. Of course, users can always choose to opt out and uninstall the feature.

Apple on the other hand is trying to improve existing iPhone5 devices by offering a free battery replacement to qualified devices. Users who purchased iPhone 5 devices between September 2012 and January 2013 sometimes reported that their devices were unable to hold an acceptable charge in the battery. Instead of turning a blind eye to the problem, Apple has decided to replace these customers' batteries for free, and even refund those who paid out of pocket for a new battery. Apple is also rumored to be working on a bigger and badder new iPad device. The device could be released as early as October of 2014, and is rumored to feature an almost 13” screen.





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