IT Show 2013 - Telco, Tablets, GPS & Mobile Accessories Buying Guide
One of the biggest attractions for any IT fair is the telco deals bundled with loads of goodies, and all sorts of mobile accessories to complement your latest purchases. Here's what to look for in your new mobile gadget at IT Show 2013!
IT Show 2013 Buying Guide
IT Show 2013 is currently taking place at Marina Bay Sands for the very first time, at level 1 and basement 2. The show is on from the 7th to the 10th of March, and is open from 12 noon to 9pm. One of Singapore's longest running tech shows, IT Show 2013 will feature more than 800 exhibitors and cover over 350,000 square-feet of exhibitions space with products ranging from notebooks and tablets to televisions, automotive accessories and more. As usual, admission will be free!
There will be a ton of products at the show, so in this handy buying guide we'll be giving you tips and tricks on what to look for in a great product. Whether you're buying a new broadband plan or a new GPS device, here's what you need to know before you buy your next gadget.
Buying Guide Index
HardwareZone IT Show 2013 Portal
For more on the IT Show, including maps, brochures and Twitter updates, click on through to our IT Show portal.
Broadband Plan Buying Guide
Consumers now have more choice than ever for their internet needs, with a host of new companies like MyRepublic joining the big three Telcos. If you're thinking about signing up for a new plan, tech shows are often the best place to do it as the freebies and extras tend to be better than at other times of the year.
BROADBAND TODAY
Broadband plans in Singapore fall into three categories: Cable broadband, ADSL broadband, and Fiber broadband.
Cable broadbanddelivers high-speed Internet access via coaxial cables and a cable termination point. Plans are available from StarHub, M1, Pacnet, and NTT Communications offering speeds of between 3Mbps to 15Mbps. An advantage of cable broadband is thatthe quality of your connection is not dependent on your proximity to your ISP (whereas ADSL is). However, unlike ADSL, which runs on a dedicated line, cable connections are shared with others in your HDB or condo block, which can affect your download speeds. |  |
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) broadbanddelivers high-speed Internet access via your existing telephone line. Plans are available from SingTel, M1, and Pacnet offering speeds of between 1.5Mbps to 15Mbps. One disadvantage of ADSL broadband is that your connection is linked to a fixed telephone line, so switching residence can be troublesome and will result in loss of service for a few days. On the other hand, unlike cable broadband, your ADSL connection is not affected by other users in your area.
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Fiber broadbanduses fiber optic cables to deliver Internet speeds far higher than both Cable and ADSL broadband. Plans are available from SingTel, StarHub, M1, MyRepublic, and ViewQwest ranging from 50mbps up to a mind-boggling 1Gbps. Fiber optic broadband requires a fiber optic termination point to be installed by network infrastructure provider, OpenNet.
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WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
Can I get Fiber broadband? Starting in 2010, network infrastructure providers OpenNet offered a one-time free installation of the fibre network termination point to all residences in Singapore. If you missed this offer, you'll need to book an appointment to have the TP installed, which will cost between $220-$450, although some ISPs offer to pay the installation charge for you if you sign up with them. As of 2013, over 95% of Singapore is fiber-ready. To check if your area is eligible for installation click here.
What router do I need for ADSL/Cable/Fiber? Any network router (wired or wireless) should be compatible with the modem your service provider gives you. However, it's a lot more tricky if you want to replace the modem that your service provider gives you. Not sure how to choose a router? Check out our networking buying guide.
What is International bandwidth/download speed? Some plans advertise different speeds for local and international downloads. Your local download speed will be applicable for sites hosted in Singapore (e.g. SingTel, locally hosted gaming servers), whereas international sites such a server in the US will subject to the international download speeds.
Broadband Plan Deals at the Show
Here are some highlighted broadband plan deals at the IT Show this year.
M1 150Mbps Fibre Broadband 150Mbps fibre broadband home connection forjust $41/month.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Basement 2, Hall D, Booth B828 |
Up to 150Mbps download and 75Mbps upload speeds with more bandwidth for more users streaming HD video. IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Basement 2, Hall D, Booth B351 |
StarHub 300Mbps Fibre Home Broadband Sign up for StarHub 300Mbps Fibre Home Broadband with a two-year contract and get a free ASUS X402CA notebook.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Basement 2, Hall E, Booth B818 | ViewQwest Fibernet 150 Bundle Sign up for ViewQwest Fibernet 150 Bundle with a two-year contract and get a free Apple TV, and 3-month Freedom VPN.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Basement 2, Hall D, BoothB361 |
SingTel 150Mbps Fibre Broadband An affordable 24-month contract of SingTel 150Mbps Fibre Broadband at $49.90/month.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Level 1, Hall A, Booth 1338 |
MyRepublic PURE HD 150Mbps Fibre Broadband
IT Show 2013 Broadband Plans Portal
Smartphone Buying Guide
A smartphone has become an integral part of our daily lifestyle. With so many options from the different mobile platforms, it must be very confusing for consumers to decide on their next phone purchase. The attractive deals at tech shows often complicate things further, with reduced prices and more freebies.
SMARTPHONES TODAY
The mobile industry is dominated by the likes of Apple iOS and phones powered by Google Android. There are also other players such as Windows Phone 8 and BlackBerry 10. So which mobile platform suits you better?
Apple iOS is well-known for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. The consistency in user experience across the board helps you adapt to it pretty quickly. Backed by a vast and superior collection of apps, you will be spoilt for choices when it comes to choosing apps from photography, games, social networking, instant messaging, productivity and entertainment.Its great cross device synergy, anchored by iTunes and iCloud, provides a unified experience that is unrivalled. If you want a simple, easy-to-use and stable phone to use, you can't go wrong with an iOS device. More Information: WWDC 2012: iOS 6 Highlights, iOS 6 Hands-on |  |
BlackBerry recently unveiled its next generation operating system, BlackBerry 10 (BB 10), which will serve as a single platform for phones and tablets. BB 10 provides a whole new user experience where you use swipe gestures to navigate the interface instead of relying on a home, menu or back navigation button. One of its key features is the BlackBerry Hub, a notification center where your social and email accounts integrate. It is deliberately designed to be accessed from any app or lock screen, hence making it very convenient for you to check new notifications without quitting the app or task that you are doing. BlackBerry has one of the best, if not the best virtual keyboards in the market. The BB 10 keyboard is able to adapt to your typing style, learns from your message history and tries to predict the next word you are typing. Used over a substantial period of time, the BB 10 keyboard is able to deliver a faster and more accurate typing experience. BB 10 is well-suited for loyal BlackBerry users who have been waiting for a modernized user interface. If you tend to text a lot and do not mind the absence of many popular apps, we highly recommend the BB 10 keyboard. More Information: BlackBerry Z10 Review |  |
As an open-source OS, it is no wonder that Google Android has grown to become the world's most popular mobile platform. As Google Android offers the freedom of choice and customization, vendors are able to manufacture a range of mobile devices with different screen sizes, form factors, price points, and user interfaces to suit the needs of different consumers. Its tight integration with Google's services such as Gmail, Maps and Drive is an asset that other mobile platforms lack. If you like the flexibility of customizing your home screens and taking more control over how your phone works, Google Android is clearly for you. More Information: Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, Google I/O 2012: Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, For Butter or For Worse. |  |
Windows Phone 8 (WP8) does not offer a drastically different user experience from its predecessor, Windows Phone 7. Its core still revolves around Live Tiles, which act as tiny windows that are constantly updated with the latest information. As such, you do not need to switch or jump between different apps to get the information you want. Windows Phone gives you all the necessary information with a single glance on the Start Screen. What's different in WP8 is the new Smart Screen, where you can resize the tiles according to your preferences. This allows you to enlarge certain functions of higher importance such as Calendar to be more visible on the home screen. Other updates include the option to enable app notifications on the lock screen, backup and restore data via Microsoft's SkyDrive, private group conversations in Rooms, NFC payment service in Wallet, and a selection of photo apps known as Lenses. If you want a break from the typical app and widget-filled home screens, WP8 can offer you a different and refreshing experience. More information: HWZ Tech Guide to Windows Phone 8 |  |
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
Getting a Phone with Contract or Without Contract? If you are renewing your contract to purchase a phone, a gentle reminder that all three telcos have rolled out new tiered smartphones in September 2012. In a nutshell, you will no longer enjoy data bundles of at least 12GB or unlimited data usage once you switch over to the new smartphone plans. Check out our illustrated overview of tiered smartphone plans for a clearer picture.
3G or 4G? So far, M1 is the only telco in Singapore to launch a nationwide 4G LTE network. SingTel is in the midst of completing the islandwide rollout of its 4G LTE network while StarHub is scheduled to complete its nationwide 4G coverage by this year.
More and more 4G-enabled mobile devices are entering the market and the telcos are actively promoting the adoption of 4G. If you want to enjoy faster mobile data connectivity, it is advisable to get a 4G phone but you have to take note that 4G phones generally have lower battery life. In addition, you are likely to switch to the new tiered plans and be limited by the lower data bundles. If you want to find out more about 4G LTE, do check out our 4G LTE Tech Guide. Do not know which devices are 4G-enabled? Fret not as we have compiled a list of devices with 4G LTE support.
Check out the latest mobile phones at our HardwareZone Mobile Phones Product Guide.
Smartphone Deals at the Show
Here are some highlighted smartphone deals at the IT Show this year.
Sony Xperia Z The Sony Xperia Z is the latest flagship smartphone from the company.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1,HALL A, BOOTH 1338 | Nokia Lumia 920 The second phone to come under the PureView branding, the Nokia Lumia 920 takes excellent images especially in low light conditions. It runs on Windows Phone 8, and is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 dual-core 1.5GHz processor. IT Show 2013 Offer
Location BASEMENT 2, HALL E, BOOTH B818 |
BlackBerry Z10 The first BlackBerry device to be powered by BlackBerry 10, the Z10 sports a highly intelligent keyboard that learns and adapts to your typing style. The user interface is navigated via a series of swipe gestures, making physical navigation keys like a home button useless.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location BASEMENT 2, HALL D, BOOTH B828 | Nokia Lumia 820 The Nokia Lumia 820 may be a more affordable companion to the Lumia 920, but it has better handling, a removable battery and a microSD card slot.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location BASEMENT 2, HALL D, BOOTH B828 |
Exclusive to StarHub, the ASUS PadFone 2 comes with a superb 4.7-inch display and offers good overall performance. Bundled alongside the phone is the new PadStation Dock which is sleeker and acts as a secondary battery pack. IT Show 2013 Offer
Location BASEMENT 2, HALL E, BOOTH B818 | LGOptimus G Can't get your hands on the Google Nexus 4? No worries as the LG Optimus G is a (almost) exact clone of the Nexus 4. In addition, you find LG's exclusive software features such as QSlide and QuickMemo. IT Show 2013 Offer
Location BASEMENT 2, HALL E, BOOTH B818 |
IT Show 2013 Smartphones Portal
Tablets Buying Guide
The tablet market is more crowded than before, with Apple iPads taking the lead and Google Android tablets fast catching up. Microsoft's Windows RT and Windows 8 tablets are beginning to make their presence felt in the tablet scene.
TABLETS TODAY
If you want to get a tablet today, there are three main options available: Apple, Google Android and Microsoft.
Apple is the company that started the tablet craze three years ago with its 9.7-inch iPad. Drawing lessons and experience from developing iOS for the iPhone and iPod Touch, Apple replicated the same formula and strategy successfully in the tablet space with four generations of iPads. It entered into the 7-inch tablet space last October when it unveiled the 7.9-inch iPad mini. While the market conditions were no longer friendly to Apple, the company managed to achieve significant sales of the iPad mini worldwide. A wide range of tablet accessories, a robust mobile platform combined with an intuitive user interface and support of tablet-optimized apps enables Apple to stay ahead of the competition. |  |
Before the introduction of the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 tablets, Google left the tablet wars in the hands of its Android vendors, who met with little success in toppling the market leader, Apple. Having decided to take things into its own hands, Google partnered with ASUS to manufacture the 7-inch Nexus 7 and offered it at extremely attractive price points. It also launched Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, the smoothest Android experience to date. Towards the end of 2012, Google collaborated with Samsung to build the Nexus 10 which has an ultra high resolution display. Since then, there's a race to the bottom in the tablet market as Android vendors built low cost, entry level tablets. A smoother, more fluid user experience, coupled with the growing support of developers for the Android ecosystem may finally give Apple and its iPads a run for their money. |  |
The tablet market has grown to be too big and important for Microsoft to ignore, and the Redmond company ventured into the tablet space with not one, but two Windows operating systems. To compete with the sea of ARM-powered Android tablets and Apple iPads, Microsoft specifically designed a special Windows operating system, called Windows RT that can be used on devices powered by ARM processors. As the competition has yet to conquer the enterprise sector, an area that is especially friendly towards Windows operating system, Microsoft licensed Windows 8 to its partners to develop tablets that can provide the same functionality as laptops and desktops. Samsung, Dell, Lenovo, ASUS, Fujitsu, Acer have since jumped on the bandwagon to offer Windows 8 and RT tablet devices. If you are looking for a desktop-like environment on a tablet, you can consider the diverse range of Windows 8 and RT-powered tablet devices from the various partners. |  |
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
Should you get a 7-inch tablet? 7-inch tablets are better suited for reading due to their 4:3 aspect ratio. In addition, 7-inch tablet form factor offers better mobility and portability. However, if you are into heavy multimedia consumption and require larger screen real estate, it is obvious that 10.1-inch tablets are recommended. As a general guideline, there is no one size fits all for tablets. It depends on individual preferences, what and how you use the tablet.
Do tablets come with keyboard accessories? Yes, some tablets come with optional keyboard accessories while others are included as a bundle. For example, the ASUS Transformer Pad TF300 comes in two packages : standalone tablet or tablet with keyboard docking station. Apple iPads, being the most popular tablet devices, tend to enjoy more support from third party vendors who make a wide range of Bluetooh keyboards for them.
Should you get a Wi-Fi or cellular model of the tablet? Some tablet models such as the Apple iPad, iPad Mini and ASUS Nexus 7 are available in two variants: Wi-Fi only and cellular. The cellular models will definitely cost more, but bring the convenience of staying connected on the move. However, you have to fork out extra cash to sign up for a multi-SIM card or another data SIM card for the tablet. In addition, cellular models will take a hit on battery performance since they are constantly connected and searching for data connectivity.
It also depends on where and how you will be using the tablet. If you tend to use the tablet at home or office, it is advisable to get a Wi-Fi model as you can connect the device to the office or home's Wi-Fi network. If there is no Wi-Fi network , you can always tether from your smartphone. On the other hand, a cellular tablet model will come in handy if you tend to be outdoors most of the time.
For more information on getting a tablet, check out our Tablet Tech Guide.
Check out the latest tablets at our HardwareZone Tablets Product Guide.
Tablets Deals at the Show
Here are some highlighted tablets deals at the IT Show this year.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 (7.0) 3G 8GB The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 (7.0) runs on Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich and a dual-core 1GHz processor. For its price point, the Samsung slate offers good build quality and handling with microSD card support.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1,BOOTH 1421 | MSI Enjoy 71 The MSI Enjoy 71 is a 7-inch tablet which runs on a dual-core 1GHz processor, Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich and 1GB RAM. Other specs include a microSD card slot (support up to 32GB cards), 3,200mAh battery and a mini-HDMI port.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1,BOOTH 1521 |
Toshiba Regza Tablet AT300 The Toshiba Regza Tablet AT300 runs on NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core 1.2GHz processor and 1GB RAM. It has 32GB onboard storage and comes with a memory card slot that supports up to 128GB.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1, BOOTH 1232 | ASUS Nexus 7 32GB (3G) The only tablet to garner our Editor's Choice award so far, the Nexus 7 is the best Android tablet on the market right now. Do not be deceived by its lower than average price point as its solid build quality and performance will blow your mind.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1, BOOTH 1205, 1317 |
Apple iPad (128GB) Apple upsized the storage capacity of its 9.7-inch iPad to 128GB in late January. This will meet the increasing needs of people who find thishuge storage invaluable in their line of work.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1, BOOTH 1532 | Samsung Ativ Smart PC Powered by the Intel Atom Z2760 processor, the 11.6-inch ATIV Smart PC (3G) runs on the Windows 8 OS, and features a 10-point touchscreen along with a optional detachable keyboard-docking system which enables easily switching between a clamshell notebook PC and a tablet PC.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location BASEMENT 2, HALL E, BOOTH B818 |
IT Show 2013 Tablets Portal
GPS Devices Buying Guide
You might think that with smartphones, the days of the standalone GPS device are over. While that might be true to a certain extent, standalone GPS devices still have their place especially for drivers. These devices typically have larger screens for easier navigation, and unlike your smartphone which can be interrupted by text messages and calls, the standalone GPS devices only needs do one thing: Show the quickest route to your destination, providing a distraction-free navigation experience. We give you some pointers on selecting the right GPS for you and also show you the hot buys from this show.
GPS DEVICES TODAY
There’s a myriad of standalone GPS devices out there today. The two biggest names in the business are Garmin and TomTom. Garmin is famed for its ease of use, while TomTom prides itself on its unique MapShare and IQ Routes map technology. There’s also a host of smaller players and some other popular brands are Holux and Papago.
GPSDevices today are more than just navigational tools. It is possible to find add-ons such as video cameras which let your GPSdevice double up as an in-car video recorder too. |  |
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
Screen size: As a rule of thumb, the larger the screen the better, because it is easier to see. However, if you are driving a smaller car, you might want to get a smaller unit so that it would not block your view. In our experience, a 5-inch display seems to be the sweet spot for most drivers and cars.
Maps: Unlike smartphone apps like Google Maps, a standalone GPS device’s maps are stored onto the device itself. This means that they can be used overseas (as long as they have the map of the country preloaded) without occurring exorbitant roaming costs. Typically, GPS devices sold in Singapore are preloaded with maps of both Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. Additional maps are usually available for purchase separately.
Special Features: Some high-end models are able to receive traffic updates via RDS satellite from LTA. Additionally, some models even come with an additional video camera so that the GPS can double up as an in-car video recorder too.
Check out the latest GPS devices at our HardwareZone GPS Devices Product Guide.
GPS Deals at the Show
Here are some highlighted GPS devices' deals at the IT Show this year.
Garmin 2565LM The Garmin 2565LMfeatures a bright 5-inch display and voice activation technology, which allows you to search for directions with just your voice and prevents you from taking your hands off the wheel.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Level B2, Booth B241 | Marbella Geomate 500 The Marbella Geomate 500 sports a 5-inch display and features useful functions such as junction view, lane assist and can even calculate ERPcosts.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Level 1, Booth 1229 |
TomTom Via 620 GPSdevices don't come bigger than the TomTom Via 620. With its massive 6-inch display, it's one of the largest GPS devices you can get your hands on.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Level B2, Booth 138 | TomTom Go 2050 World The TomTom Go 2050 World is ideal for frequent fliers because it comes with World Maps, which includes Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, U.S.A. and Canada.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location Level B2, Booth 138 |
IT Show 2013 GPS Devices Portal
Mobile Accessories Buying Guide
Battery packs. Casings. Bluetooth headsets. These are just some of the necessary accessories to complete your smartphone or tablet experience - if you're looking to improve your smartphone's battery life, or wish to stream your music wirelessly via a Bluetooth headset, there's plenty at IT Show 2013.
MOBILE ACCESSORIES TODAY
When it comes to accessories for mobile phones and tablets, it is not far-fetched to say that you have endless choices from the likes of Energizer, EpiCentre, nubox and many more.
Nubox is an Apple Premium reseller and Apple Authorized Reseller company in Singapore. An arm of Newstead Technologies, nubox offers an extensive range of Apple products from Macs, to iPods, iPhones and iPads to a wide range of accessories to complement the mobile media and computing experience. |  |
Jabra is a global manufacturer of innovative headset and speakerphone solutions. The brand, Jabra, is about empowering consumers and enabling communication for mobile users. Its headset range has consistently being recognized as the gold standard in innovation and design. |  |
Plantronics is a company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California that pioneered the lightweight headset, the mobile headset, noise-cancelling technology and the personal speakerphone. Its portfolio of corded and wireless products is widely recognized for the excellent sound quality, reliability and comfort. |  |
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
Do You Need a Wired or Wireless Headset? It depends on your needs. Drivers and people on-the-go will appreciate the convenience of going wireless, as they do not need to bother themselves with entangled wires or worry about wires getting in their way. However, if you are always on the move and have no access to a power supply, it is advisable to stick to wired headsets as you do not need to worry about them running out of power halfway through the day.
Is a Portable Battery Charger necessary? Mobile devices today come with many features and functions, such as GPS, video playback, video calls, gaming and web browsing. In addition, the trend of increasing display sizes and 4G LTE will mean that smartphones and tablets are likely to see shorter battery mileage. It is highly advisable to have a portable battery charger with you in the event that your phone runs low on battery and a quick charge of battery is what it takes to make the call or compose that important email.
Mobile Accessories Deals at the Show
Here are some highlighted mobile accessories deals at the IT Show this year.
MiPow Power Tube 4000 Portable Battery Compatible with Apple iPhone 4S / 4 / 3GS / iPod and other mobile devices which support 3.7V / 1A input (by USB cable), the Power Tube 4000 is able to support charging to two devices simultaneously with its4,000mAh battery.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1,BOOTH 1329 | Griffin Lightning Connector Cable The 0.9m long Griffin Lightning Connector cable has a full-sized USB Type-A connection to connect to your computer for charging, syncing or transferring of data.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1, BOOTH 1329 |
Plantronics Marque M155 Twin Pack The Plantronics M155 is one the lightest Bluetooth headsets you can find in the market. Weighing at just 7g, the M155 packs a lot of advanced features in its highly compact size. It allows voice-guided pairing with Android or iOS smartphones. Voice recognition is also supported on the headset, which allows you to answer or ignore calls completely hands-free.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1, BOOTH 1105, 1429, 1329 | Jabra CLEAR Jabra CLEAR supports HD Voice for a better sound experience. You can stream multimedia content - GPS, music and Internet radio directly to the headset. It comes with a status display to inform you visually on the battery and connectivity status.IT Show 2013 Offer
Location LEVEL 1, BOOTH 1329, Basement 2, Booth B263 |
IT Show 2013 Mobile Accessories Portal
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