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Strong Month for Web 2.0 Financing

Published
by
admin
on December 1, 2009
in News and Opinion
. 0 Comments

Outlook_web2_weekly

Fewer but larger deals push November over $200 Million in financing.

November 2009 is a month that saw 10 financings in excess of $15 million each, plus the $400 million acquisition of PlayFish by Electronic Arts. This despite the number of deals tracking well below the roughly 25 deals per month that our Web 2.0 universe has generated in 2009 to date. Regarding the higher value deals, we observe two clear sector trends: investment in gaming companies approaching the market from a social networks perspective (e.g. PlayFish, Playdom, Zynga), and increased interest in Chinese online media companies (Ku6.com, Phoenix New Media, Qunar.com).

WHILE FUNDING ACTIVITY IS HEATING UP…

November – seventh month to close above $200 million in 2009: Total transaction value in the Web 2.0 universe for November ended at $203.4 million. The number of financings increased to 18, averaging $11.3 million each (vs. an average of $11.9 million over 17 deals as of last week). In comparison, total capital raised in October was $171.3 million, averaging $6.3 million (27 deals); September was $232.8 million, averaging $9.0 million (26 deals); and August was $221.6 million, averaging $7.6 million (29 deals).

… PUBLIC MARKETS PULL BACK

Market pull-back continues: Nineteen companies in our universe had positive stock price performances over the past week (for stocks with prices greater than $1), while 28 companies showed negative 1-week returns.

Please feel free to forward the Weekly, blog it, post it, tweet it etc. Note that prior versions are available on the web at www.scribd.com/dapshore.

The HTC Magic with Google Android reviewed

Published
by
Kyle
on April 17, 2009
in News and Opinion
. 0 Comments

The HTC Magic was announced at Mobile World Congress this year and it’s been getting a lot of buzz. It’s a shame that more Android phones aren’t on the market but the few that have come out are looking very slick.

The HTC Magic is the newest phone designed on the Google Android platform. The device has many of the same features that the HTC G1 is packing, obviously because they’re both running Android. Why choose this device over the G1? It’s all in the handset design. The G1 is a little more bulky and if having a phone that fits nicely into your pocket is a big priority, then you should consider buy the HTC Magic instead.

The HTC Magic is expected to retail between 99 and 199 Euros and will launch initially on Vodafone. Although Europeans will have the first crack at the device, T-Mobile is expected to pick it up in the near future where it will likely be called the G2.

For a full review of the HTC Magic, check out DAP’s full review of the device.

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Samsung Tocco Ultra 8300 impressions and details

Published
by
Kyle
on April 17, 2009
in Opinion
. 1 Comment

The Samsung Tocco Ultra 8300 is available now and it’s going to do a great job capturing a young audience looking for a media rich phone but don’t need push email. The device is a 12.8mm slider with a duralumin anti-scratch, anti-fingerprint casing.

In terms of media, the Tocco Ultra boasts an 8MP camera that comes with a dual LED flash, autofocus and video recording. The display is touch sensitive and is 2.8 inches. At 3G with HSDPA, you’ll be able to download all your favorite vids and pics sans hassle. Also, the phone features an accelerometer that will make web browsing much easier a la iPhone.

This phone is perfect for a very particular demographic in North America, but the real market for this device will be in its native country South Korea. Many of North America’s devices are shifting towards full QWERTY because it’s the easiest way to type SMS and emails to friends and coworkers. Korea and many other Asian countries on the other hand, prefer a keypad based phone because Asian characters are fewer and better represented in that way. That previous statement obviously excludes Chinese because you couldn’t possibly fit every Chinese character onto a phone.

Here in the West, this phone will be especially popular with a demographic that wants a classic style phone that fits nicely in your pocket, but has all the rich media capabilities of a modern smartphone.

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Nokia 6700 review, specifications and impressions

Published
by
Kyle
on March 30, 2009
in News and Opinion
. 0 Comments

The Nokia 6700 is a 5 megapixel camera phone that is the latest Series 40 device by Nokia. The device has some nice specs with an autofocus camera, GPS navigation with Nokia Maps and the Nokia WebKit Open Source Browser which was previously only available for Series 60 handsets.

The device is fairly thin at only 11mm but there is a lot inside it. The device supports both quad-band GSM and tri-band UMTS networks (plus HSDPA up to 10 Mbps). Also built into the device is an accelerometer which for tap-for-clock and turn-to-mute features.

The Nokia 6700 will be shipping with a 1GB microSD card and will be available in the usual metallic colors: Silver metallic, Matte metallic, Black metallic, and Brown metallic.

Expect the phone to retail for 235 euro in Q3 2009.

The HTC Magic review, specifications and impressions

Published
by
Kyle
on March 30, 2009
in Opinion
. 2 Comments

The HTC Magic is a slick looking device with a curvy design that seems reminiscent of the Android G1. The device features a rollerball, quick keys, and a much improved camera. Video recording and the responsiveness of the camera have been improved for the launch of this device and will surely please.

The first difference from the G1 that you’ll surely notice is that it is thinner and lacks a keyboard. Other than that, you can expect the same screen resolution and size. The screen might be somewhat brighter and the color temperature slightly different, but now we’re getting into some minor details.

Overall, the phone is a good device for touchscreen lovers who want an Android phone but would like something a little slimmer with no slide out keyboard. The device looks very pretty and it’s nice to see the Android platform start to influence the look and feel of a device. For a company that also manufactures the less-than-beautiful Windows Mobile, they’re really proving they can make a wide variety of devices.

Everything a serious blogger should know

Published
by
Kyle
on March 6, 2009
in Opinion and Uncategorized
. 2 Comments

The commitment

In order to maintain a successful site, you need at least 5 articles per day. These 5 articles are broken into quick links (called QLs) and features. A good balance is 4 QLs and 1 Feature. It’s good to get into this mentality for a few reasons:

  • Stops you from over-posting (there is always tomorrow)
  • Allows to cover the day’s scene
  • Forces you to get in a daily grind
  • Each day has a traffic driving post

    • If you can only commit to a post a week, don’t bother. Now you might be asking why QuicklyBored isn’t following the above formula. Well it has for a long time, but this is a recession folks. My time is completely taken up by BlackBerryCool.com because it generates more money and traffic.

    Choosing your blog

    As I described above, a blog should be a full time commitment. If you’re doing something every single day, you’re going to have to enjoy what you write about. Once you’ve got your head wrapped around the fact that this blog is a daily commitment, start thinking about what you’re going to blog about.

    Niche markets are key when choosing a blog with a future. The thought process should be:

  • What do I like?
  • What can I write about?
  • What do I know about this that most people don’t?
  • Who am I writing for?

    • Let’s say for example you’re into video games. There are a ton of video game blogs out there so now it’s time to find a niche. What games do you like? Maybe you could blog about the company that makes the games you like. Maybe you like listening to music while you play vids. If that’s the case, blog your gaming playlists.

    Getting down to writing

    When it comes time to writing, it’s important to know that you’re writing on the internet and a certain degree of technical understanding is in order. Know the technology behind how your content is being discovered and read. Here are some key technologies to know:

  • Google analytics
  • Open source blogging platforms
  • Basic HTML, CSS and PHP
  • Keywords and Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
  • Excerpts, categories and tags
  • RSS feeds and readers
  • IP addresses
  • Comments and comment moderation

    • With these technologies, you’re going to make sure that people are finding what you’re reading and sharing it with others. Remember, the end goal of a blog is to build a place where knowledge, ideas and opinions are shared. Even if you’re blogging about how great your tits look in the morning, you want people finding those tits, telling their friends about them and sharing their thoughts about them.

    Also, you should know all the basic video, audio and pic editing software. Final Cut, iTunes, Garageband and Photoshop will be of daily importance.

    Monetize or go home

    If you’re not in it for money, then you’re a walking billboard for your favorite subject: “ME.” You’ll be surprised how much you learn about your readers and what they like. It helps to shape your writing as well. For example, when I write about BlackBerrys and see that sales of cases are up, I know people want to read about some cool cases. In the end, your writing job gets easier and you’re rewarded for being smart.

    Social networking works

    Social networking is addictive and while it serves as a great promotional tool, it can also suck up all your time. Have a game plan with social networks. Make friends both in your field of interest, but also who are pals and can keep you entertained. Think of your Twitter followers as a babe you want to impress, and the people you follow like your wing men. The people you follow big you up while you try pick up lines with people out of your league.

    Goals, direction and redesigns

    It’s going to take a long time for your blog to really gain some steam. It’s important to have the patience and persistence of Santiago. When it comes to traffic, think of it like your stock portfolio. If you check your stocks everyday, you’ll be on highs and lows that will make you feel like an OC housewife. No amount of Xanax will help you on a bad day. So just check it either biweekly or every month. It also helps you keep focused on the big picture.

    Now that you’ve actually read this much, you have to comment.

    Can’t think of anything to say? Comment your personal or favorite blog. Shameless self promotion welcome (no Viagra blogs).

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    How to cheat on your loved one with an iPhone

    Published
    by
    Kyle
    on March 2, 2009
    in Opinion
    . 1 Comment

    I should really start this article off by saying that I’m not writing from experience, I’ve just been using an iPhone for some time now and I’ve become aware of the dual purpose of some of its features. That being said, here is how to cheat and never get caught.

    Step 1: Turn the password lock feature on

    To turn this feature on, go to Settings> General> Passcode Lock

    This feature locks your device so that if anyone tries to use it, they have to enter a 4 digit code that allows them access to the device.

    Make sure to enter a 4 digit code that only you know. I tend to use the last 4 digits of an old telephone number that nobody would remember because I had zero friends at the time. The reason you’re doing this is because you have to realize you’re doing something terrible and if you’re caught, you will spend the next 6 months living in a stress-induced nightmare. Don’t let someone snoop and find out something you don’t want them to. When they ask why you have it locked, just say it’s for work. The line is:

    “I’m paranoid about coworkers snooping through my phone and seeing the emails where I make fun of them and talk about how much my job sucks.”

    Step 2: Make sure SMS preview is off

    SMS preview is a feature that will show you the SMS that was just sent to you, allowing you to respond or ignore it right away.

    This feature must be turned off because it will ruin you. Imagine this: your phone is sitting on the table while you’re out to dinner with your spouse. A chime rings indicating a text has come through and you both stare at the phone out of habit. The preview comes up and says “thanks for last night but my thighs are KILLING me.” How are you going to explain that? You were supposed to be studying last night with friends. Turn the SMS preview off by doing the following:

    Settings> General> Passcode Lock> Show SMS Preview> Off

    Step 3: Never keep his/her name saved in contacts

    You’re going to inevitably get calls from the person you’re cheating with so don’t bother saving their number. If someone sees the caller ID the jig is up. When you’re dating, you’ve introduced your spouse to your whole social network and anyone new is going to arouse suspicion. Just avoid it and don’t answer the call if spies are listening.

    Step 4: Have a good excuse about why you ignored the call

    When you get a call, you’re going to have to ignore it if you’re in the company of either your spouse or cheating partner. When you ignore a call, have some reason that doesn’t make you look guilty. Here are some examples:

    “I can tell it’s work related and I’m not interested.”
    “I really don’t feel like interrupting our hang out.”
    “I’m just being lazy. If it’s important they’ll leave a message.”

    Step 5: First one in last one out (FILO)

    If things are looking like they’re starting to fall apart, ABORT. The rule is an accounting rule but it applies here: “first one in, last one out.” Save yourself an incredible amount of pain and shame and tell the person you’re cheating with that you think it’s time to end it. Tell him/her that it’s just not working out and never tell anyone about you did. Keep this whole charade a secret until you die. Actually, just before you die tell 1 person. You’re dead so who cares right?

    People you should follow on Twitter

    Published
    by
    Kyle
    on February 23, 2009
    in Opinion
    . 3 Comments

    I’ve been using Twitter for a while now and I thought I would compile a list of my favorite Twitterers. Generally, these lists include people like Guy Kawasaki, Shaq, Ashton Kutcher and Tina Fey (it’s just her pr person). But what about the rest of us? There are a ton of funny and interesting people out there.

    My list is a mixture of people in the mobile industry, funny people and some people I just find interesting. Yes, it is mostly BlackBerry bloggers but that’s because it’s my bread and butter. If you don’t have something to promote, you may as well stick to Facebook updates.

    gnarjen

    Who: Jen Hanley writes a fashion blog called Gnarlitude.
    Why: She knows a lot about pants.

    I enjoy morphine and strawberry sparkling mineral water. Sometimes together but not always.
    Location: On my Creature Rip Rider
    Following: 27
    Followers: 25
    Web: http://www.gnarlitude.com
    Twitter: twitter.com/gnarjen

    nanpalmero

    Who: Nan Palmero writes BlackBerry tips and works for a high intensity sales company.
    Why: If you’re in the BlackBerry space, you already know him.

    Chief Inspiration Officer at @SalesBy 5 + Nan the Power User at @BlackBerryCool
    Location: San Antonio, TX
    Following: 1235
    Followers: 1491
    Web: http://salesby5.com
    Twitter: twitter.com/nanpalmero

    JonnyMakeup

    Who: Jonny Makeup is American Apparel’s mascot.
    Why: He calls Dov Charney “daddy”.

    From small town boy to self-proclaimed IT gurrl.
    Location: Los Angeles, CA
    Following: 46
    Followers: 93
    Web: http://www.misshapes.com/blog/jonnymakeup/
    Twitter: twitter.com/JonnyMakeup

    LouTreize

    Who: Lou knows the BlackBerry space better than me.
    Why: “Basically, anyone that tweets ‘cunt’, I follow.”

    I am myself. Convinced enough?
    Location: Montreal
    Following: 84
    Followers: 81
    Twitter: twitter.com/LouTreize

    STAGEMOMZ

    Who: Lesley Arfin runs Missbehave Magazine.
    Why: Her nickname is Barfin Arfin.

    TWEET SCENE
    Location: LUDLOW
    Following: 40
    Followers: 113
    Web: http://www.missbehavemag.com
    Twitter: twitter.com/STAGEMOMZ

    agentmule

    Who: Trace does documentaries and reports from the furthest reaches of Earth.
    Why: “At 3am listening to MIA in the Addis Hilton w/ ministers from the African Union Summit. Thank Gaddafi they like white guys who can dance”

    day to day yearnings and learnings
    Location: island off the coast of america
    Following: 87
    Followers: 65
    Web: http://therunningmule.blogspot.com/
    Twitter: twitter.com/agentmule

    Street_Carnage

    Who: Street Boners + TV Carnage = Street Carnage
    Why: “Do gays see penises as anal food?”

    Followers: 49
    Updates: 914
    Web: http://www.streetcarnage.com
    Twitter: twitter.com/Street_Carnage

    BBGeekChic

    Who: BlackBerry blogger for blackberrymotion.com.
    Why: Women are seriously underrepresented in the BlackBerry blogosphere.

    blogger, forum chick, bb geek, writer
    Location: Minnesota
    Following: 227
    Followers: 158
    Web: http://www.blackberrymotion.com
    Twitter: twitter.com/bbgeekchic

    ASacco

    Who: Al Sacco is another bb blogger.
    Why: Scoops that aren’t stoops.

    Location: All up in your Internet
    Following: 117
    Followers: 360
    Web: http://advice.cio.com/blogs/mobile_workhorse
    Twitter: twitter.com/ASacco

    Follow me on Twitter too, even though I’m boring and ugly. twitter.com/kylemcinnes

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    How to quickly switch between email accounts on WinMo

    Published
    by
    Bambi.Blue
    on February 17, 2009
    in Opinion
    . 0 Comments

    Windows Mobile’s email application might not be perfect, but one thing it really has going for it is how simple it is to switch from one email account to another very quickly.

    If you’re like me, you have a handful of emails that you check on a regular basis — your work email, your personal email, the email address you use when you sign up for something that could potentially spam you with Viagra ads… etc.

    Check out the above video demo provided by Todd Ogasawara of MobileAppsToday and you’ll see just how easy it is.