Sony Ericsson XPERIA X1 SDK released

While Sony Ericsson has yet to release the XPERIA X1 to the awaiting public, they have recently announced the availability of a free SDK tool for the XPERIA X1 which will allow developers to take advantage of the X1’s Panel Interface. As for the Windows Mobile-powered phone itself, they’ve assured the public that they’re on track for a 4Q release.

So, aside from the promise that it’ll be available this year, the release of a SDK paints a pretty interesting picture ahead for those waiting to get their hands on the XPERIA X1. With the SDK, 3rd party apps can likewise utilize the Panel Interface and will not only be limited to Sony Ericsson developed software. This way, you’re almost guaranteed that the whole user-experience in the X1 will be completely unique as opposed to other Windows Mobile-running devices. That is, povided of course, if developers will download the SDK tool first and use it on their apps.

Unfortunately, in the greater context of things, these are all just empty promises until the XPERIA X1 is finally release. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that they’ll keep their promise of a 4Q release.

Simplify Media: Stream Music to your iPhone/iPod Touch

If you’re an iPhone/iPod Touch owner who’s music collection greatly surpasses the capacity of his/her iPod, might we offer you a solution that will not only grant you access to your iTunes library on your PC/Mac, but will also allow you to acess the collection of your friends as well.

The Simplify Media app is a free software available at the App Store that’ll allow you to stream your entire music library through the internet. All you need to do is install the application both on your iPod and your PC/Mac, and you’re on your way to enjoying limitless fun. Likewise, if you’ve got friends who already have Simplify Media running, as long as they’re part of your contacts list and they’re online, you’ll aslo be able to access their shared music as well.

This app has been around for quite sometime now, and prior to the App Store, it used to be exclusive to jailbroken units only. Aside from accessing your iTunes library remotely, it also now gives you information regarding the song such as artist info (by Last.fm) and song lyrics (by LyricWiki). Album art is also taken online but if the song title, artist and album title don’t match their records, then don’t expect it to display the right one or anything at all.

As good as it is, it’s still not perfect. Remote access is limited only to audio files so you won’t be able to watch your favorites TV shows and movies through it. Buffering time is somewhat inconsistent, but most of the time, it’s pretty tolerable.

So, if you’ve got everything set up, get ready to enjoy countless hours of music just as long as you’re connected to a network (Wi-Fi, 3G, or even EDGE).

Nokia 6600 slide: A Balance in Design and Function

This is probably one of the smallest sliders out in the market today. The Nokia 6600 slide might not shout out in terms of design, but its simple yet clever design that’s equally complemented by a bevy of features makes it a nice alternative to the iPhone-crazed market of today.

Aesthetically, it exudes a certain amount of sophistication with its glossy, high-quality steel covers and aluminum center key. As a testament to good design, one can easily slide it open with one hand to reveal its equally plush keypad. It comes with a 3.2-megapixel camera, GPRS, FM radio, and large 2.2-inch QVGA display. It also comes with the Nokia Maps application, but you’ll need to pair it up with an external GPS unit to take advantage of its navigation features.

With a suggested retail price of PhP16,330, it might seem a little bit expensive considering how the more functional, 3G capable slim Nokia E51 is much cheaper than this one, but I reckon that this will have its own little following that’s not too critical about price nor features.