In focus: smart networks

The growth in data services and the advent of over-the-top (OTT) players present challenges for operators. Ericsson’s Lingaraj Patil, Senior Marketing Manager, explains how a 4G IP network solution, which includes smart-network capabilities, can help operators stay profitable.

The global number of mobile subscriptions has reached about 6 billion – and just over a billion of these subscriptions include access to mobile broadband. Ericsson forecasts indicate there will be about 5 billion mobile-broadband subscriptions by 2016. On top of this, data consumption per user is increasing dramatically – something that presents challenges, as well as opportunities for operators.

The first challenge is finding ways to fuel this growth profitably by increasing the number of mobile-broadband consumers and devices. To achieve this, operators need to come up with innovative and profitable offerings to penetrate markets with lower average revenue per user (ARPU). They also need to boost ARPU in high-end market segments by improving users’ Quality of Experience QoE.

The second challenge is finding strategies to cope with the rapid traffic growth fuelled by the use of OTT services. Video is a key driver of this growth. Operators need to provide the capacity to meet this demand cost-effectively, and find a way to monetize the value these services represent in the ICT ecosystem.

To realize these objectives, operators will have to redefine their business models. Possible strategies could include working with OTT players to provide value-added services to users, and making these offerings cost-effective by engaging advertisers. The intersection of the telecom, OTT and advertising ecosystems offers significant potential for operators to expand their business.

Ericsson’s strategy to help operators meet these challenges and opportunities is centered around a portfolio of products and solutions based on 4G IP network capabilities. With 4G IP, operators can build networks that are smart, simple, scalable, and that offer superior performance. Smart-network capabilities can help operators to refine their service offerings by targeting specific user groups, and redefining their business models to fully monetize the value they generate.

Ericsson’s 4G IP-based smart-networking solution, Service-Aware Charging and Control (SACC) is the cornerstone for refining service offerings and enabling new business models. It brings together Ericsson’s policy control, charging, traffic inspection and enforcement functions.

By offering mobile broadband, operators can penetrate new market segments and engage users in areas beyond traditional voice and SMS services. Unfortunately, in many markets, mobile broadband is restricted to the top-end consumer segment. Ericsson’s smart-networking capabilities can help operators reach other consumer segments by providing low-ARPU services that are relevant, affordable and simple to use.

To that end, Ericsson has developed the Smart Prepaid Broadband solution, which enables operators to create mobile-broadband offerings that increase subscriber penetration. This solution is built on the foundation of SACC. Variations of SACC have already been implemented successfully, so customers can be confident that these solutions can start generating value for them immediately.

Providing a “social networking only” package is an example of how operators can come up with innovative low ARPU offerings. With this package, consumers will be able to access social-networking-specific apps and websites and nothing else for a low hourly, daily or monthly fee. Ericsson has helped implement this in some South Asian countries with very high subscriber-uptake levels.

When service offerings are refined, operators also gain the capability to selectively enhance QoE for users willing to pay for higher quality. For example, operators can offer improved QoE for subscribers who want to use mobile broadband to watch videos.

In the ICT ecosystem, the role of operators is changing, and they need to redefine their business models accordingly. Ericsson’s 4G IP-based smart networks can help them do so by enabling them to build networks that are more user-aware and content-aware – and to utilize this awareness to deploy their network assets effectively to enhance the user experience.

SACC enables true end-to-end QoS support, which helps operators to scale their network capacity cost-effectively and offer superior performance where it matters. The solution’s integrated charging and control function allows operators to refine their service offerings to meet the needs of subscribers in diverse market segments, and lets users pay for mobile-broadband services as they go. SACC also gives operators the opportunity to use a multidimensional business model in which they can work with OTT players to enhance QoS – and get paid for doing so.

It is possible, for example, to provide an unlimited music-streaming service in collaboration with OTT music-streaming companies without that bandwidth usage counting towards the subscribers’ monthly data cap. This leads to increased ARPU and reduced churn.

A year ago, Ericsson introduced its family of Smart Services Routers (SSRs), built on a foundation of 4G IP capabilities. Their key benefit is the scale they offer in terms of control-plane signaling, users and bandwidth. These routers were created with mobile and fixed convergence in mind. On a single platform, they can support multiple applications, services and functions, such as Border Gateway Function, Broadband Network Gateway, Content Delivery Network ,(CDN) Carrier-Grade Network Address Translation, Evolved Packet Gateway , Multi-Service Edge Router and traffic inspection. They also support Internet Protocol version 6. Because these routers scale very well in several dimensions, they allow operators to simplify network design and operation.

Operators are beginning to open up to doing business with OTT players and starting to realize that they can partner with some of them to achieve win-win solutions. This is a positive development that will lead to more innovative mobile-broadband offerings and will help operators monetize more of the value they are providing to the ICT ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Ericsson sees smart networks as a platform on which many innovative user services will be enabled and new business models defined.

Ericsson CTO: big-data era calls for network innovation

Smartphones and big data call for innovation in networking technology
Ericsson focuses on 4th-generation (4G) IP networking, service provider software-defined networking (SDN), OSS/BSS, real-time analytics and heterogeneous networks
In light of recent phenomena around new smartphone launches, the ICT industry can expect a big-data era throughout the networks. At his keynote speech at the annual global broadband event, Broadband World Forum 2012, Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) CTO Ulf Ewaldsson emphasized the importance of innovation in networking technology in realizing an all-communicating world.

Ewaldsson said: "In Sweden, the time spent on the internet every week increased from eight hours in 2008 to 19 hours in 2012*, and the trend is similar in other countries. We know those users appreciate mobility and high-quality access to the network. During the same period, the demand put on the network has changed enormously.

"Voice-centric usage became mostly data in the mobile networks. The entire app industry went from zero to 35 billion apps in four years. We see increasing multi-screen viewing habits. This kind of never-ending innovation is a loop between consumer demand and network capacity and capability. Ericsson focuses on superior user experience and innovation in the networks."

Ericsson’s CTO said it is no longer realistic to address the network as separate silos. The network must be capable of delivering the relevant, personalized, end-to-end, IP-based services and applications that meet users’ high expectations. This should be handled independently of the number of mobile or fixed subscribers, or video bandwidth demand.

Ericsson identified key technology areas for the future network:

4G IP, virtualization and SDN
OSS and BSS and real-time analytics
heterogeneous networks
Heterogeneous networks increase the coverage, bandwidth and signaling capacity of the mobile network and support very high traffic volumes and data rates through a seamless combination of low-power radio technologies – including all-sized cells and Wi-Fi access points – and an improved and densified macro network. The Ericsson’s heterogeneous network is a complete solution, based on a 3GPP-standardized and coordinated radio network with integrated Wi-Fi, advanced traffic management and backhaul for any need. Ericsson made several launches today that illustrate how Wi-Fi has become an increasingly integrated part of the service provider network.

4G IP networking and SDN are key to building a future network that is smart, scalable, simple and capable of delivering superior performance. The new IP network needs to be something beyond the network we built for the internet boom. It should be “aware of” users, services, devices, location and scale in bandwidth and connections/signaling, at the same time as being much simpler to operate and maintain. Today, Ericsson introduced its latest Broadband Network Gateway application, based on the Smart Service Router to show the versatility and power featured in from these types of next-generation IP platforms.

SDN is an emerging technology with great potential beyond its application in data centers. SDN is about the virtualization of the control plane from the data-plane nodes. Ericsson sees the need for a Service Provider SDN. In order to give service providers the possibility to rationalize the network to deliver better user experience and extend their business model, the industry definition of SDN must be expanded from data centers to deliver the promise of lower costs and new business opportunities for service providers.

Ewaldsson stressed: "SDN in the telco-operator domain is much more than (the Layer 2 communications protocol) OpenFlow. It’s not about only managing the data planes in switches and routers, but about having fully integrated network control by connecting the SDN management layer to the cloud and network management. This offers a new view on networking. Operators can orchestrate network resources on different layers for different purposes under the same management system. In addition, the SDN architecture must also provide network awareness to the application layer through service exposure APIs. At the same time, we need innovation on the support system side. OSS and BSS and big data analytics provide the insight into the network and user behavior that allow the operator to adapt and manage the network to serve the user."

* Ericsson ConsumerLab study 2011

Addressing IPv6 opportunities

IPv6 the right address for Sprint

Each device connected to the internet must be assigned an IP address in order to communicate with other devices. However, a connected device today means much more than a phone or a tablet – increasingly, anything that can benefit from a connection is being connected. As a result, the number of available addresses is shrinking fast – and as one of the largest operators in the US, Sprint needed a solution that really pushed the envelope.

"Five years ago we thought of the internet as something that our phones and PCs used," says Iyad Tarazi, Head of Network Development at Sprint. "Five years from now, we’ll think of it in terms of our kitchen appliances or cars. The more connections, the more addresses we need. We’re running out, and we’re running out quickly."

Finding an answer

The dominant internet communication protocol today is IPv4. But by providing an almost unlimited number of new IP addresses, the new IPv6 protocol allows many more devices to be connected, supports the launch of new services and ultimately underpins the continued growth of Sprint’s business. However, IPv6 does not provide backward support for IPv4 and IPv4-based applications will be used for some time to come. The evolutionary process from IPv4 to IPv6 must therefore be a gradual one.

"IPv6 allows operators to simplify the network. This means we can pass better performance and flexibility onto our customers and reduce our cost structure," Tarazi says. "But if you get it wrong, then you create massive blockage and performance issues."

Sprint’s plan was simple – introduce a native IPv6 service on their fixed network as an overlay stack of their existing IPv4 protocol. This would enable the delivery of both IPv4 and IPv6 services while maximizing Sprint’s return on investment on their existing equipment.

The right partner

"Sprint needed a strong partner who could execute quickly with minimal customer impact. Ericsson was the right choice for Sprint at every stage – from initial engagement, assessment, and analysis and design through to implementation and lifecycle management," says Ajit Bhatia, Head of Marketing and Business Development for Ericsson’s Sprint Customer Unit.

"It was critical to have a partner like Ericsson with a proven track record of managing complex technical projects that require a disciplined systems engineering approach," Tarazi says. "We run a multi-vendor environment and the Ericsson team showed enormous flexibility by bringing in the competence that was needed."

Reaping the benefits

With engineers working around the clock, the project was not only completed on budget, but in time for World IPv6 Day 2012. And the benefits for Sprint and its customers will be even more long-lasting.

"Leveraging our business partnership with Ericsson resulted in great performance and flawless execution," Tarazi says. "Our customers now have access to a network that can handle new and innovative ways of connecting their devices to the internet, allowingthem to grow with us as their needs evolve."

Customer Profile

Sprint

Sprint is North America’s third-largest carrier. The company has an enviable track record of innovation, offering the first wireless 4G service from a national US carrier, as well as unlimited data plans for its smartphone users. By the end of 2011, Sprint was serving more than 55 million customers. Its leading prepaid brands include Virgin Mobile USA and Boost Mobile.

The company has won a number of customer satisfaction accolades and in 2011, Newsweek ranked Sprint no. 3 in its 2011 Green Rankings – listing it as one of the USA’s greenest companies.

www.sprint.com

Leading the way with 4G IP

Ericsson’s Jan Häglund, Head of Product Area IP & Broadband highlights Ericsson’s commitment to 4G IP and discusses the benefits that the new Broadband Network Gateway application will deliver.

http://www.ericsson.com/news/121016-leading-the-way-with-4g-ip_244159017_c

Huawei Showcases Leading Data Center and WLAN Solutions at Interop Mumbai, Helping Indian Enterprises Achieve Business Success

Huawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, kicked off the showcase of its advanced ICT products and solutions at Interop Mumbai. The showcase demonstrates how Huawei is helping Indian enterprises address pressing challenges in their IT infrastructure brought about by big data.

At the event, Eric Yu, President of Huawei Enterprise in India and Nepal, also delivered a keynote speech on "How to create efficient work environment using cloud, mobility and collaborative technology". "We are delighted to participate at Interop Mumbai. In 2012, we are targeting to develop about 500 customers and 100 partners in India market," Mr. Eric Yu said.

"In the era of big data, cloud computing, smart devices and mobile networks have brought about tremendous changes in enterprise business models of work and operations. Huawei is committed to delivering ‘A Better Way’ for Indian enterprises to do business through close collaboration with our partners in India, as well as consistent investment in this market. We look forward to providing more and more advanced ICT products and solutions to our customers, helping them address new challenges, and ultimately, to fuel their business success."

At Interop Mumbai, Huawei will showcase its comprehensive product portfolio for the enterprise market, including Enterprise Networking, Unified Communications and Collaboration, Cloud Computing and Data Center, and Enterprise Security. Key highlights at the showcase include:

Industry’s Highest-Performance Next-generation Data Center Switch – CloudEngine 12800 Series Core Switches

The CloudEngine series provides high bandwidth of up to 2Tbps per slot, four times the industry’s highest level and switching capacity of 48Tbps which is three times the industry’s highest level. The CloudEngine 12800 series of core switches and CloudEngine 5800/6800 series of ToR switches support high-density switching of 100GE, 40GE, 10GE and GE interfaces, as well as virtualization and computing, storage and network convergence. This enables the sustainable development of enterprise data centers over a 10 year span, helping customers build stable data center network infrastructure in the long run.

Industry’s First Enterprise-level 802.11ac WLAN Access Point

The new WLAN access points on showcase at Interop Mumbai support 256 QAM modulation and 80 MHz channel bandwidth. Huawei will be conducting on-site demonstrations to show that the 802.11ac AP is able to realize a throughput of 800 Mbps at the application layer, creating smooth and efficient user experience for customers.

S9700 Series Terabit Routing Switches for Next-Generation Data Centers

The S9700 switches incorporate the Cluster Switch System (CSS) technology and achieve cross-frame delay of 21us, which is the industry’s lowest level, effectively optimizing the network structure and improving the switching efficiency. They also support industry-leading 8*40G and 48*10GE high-density line cards, as well as up to 96 of 40GE interfaces or 576 of 10 GE interfaces, fully preparing data centers for the upcoming 10GE era.

IDS2000 Modular Data Center

The new IDS2000 modular data center allows modular construction and expansion of data centers and is adaptable to multiple site scenarios, maximizing space utilization. Associated application of row-level air conditioning, modular UPS, aisle containment and highly integrated power distribution cabinet significantly improve energy efficiency and lower overall PUE. With the intelligent management system NetEco, users are able to conduct real-time monitoring and management of data center infrastructure and equipment, ensuring a high level of security and business continuity.

India is a key market and R&D center for Huawei. Multiple enterprises across different industries have already deployed Huawei’s ICT solutions to achieve business success. NxtGEN, a leading data center operator in India, has expanded its business across the country with the use Huawei’s IDS2000 solution. Huawei’s AR series of routers has also emerged as the product of choice for many Indian enterprises, including India’s second largest bank ICICI Bank and Power Grid Corporation of India.

Eric Yu said: "Testament to our strong commitment to the Indian market, Huawei has established a R&D center in Bangalore, and we have recruited over 6,500 local employees in India. We will continue to implement our strategy of coopeation - closely collaborating with our local channel partners and system integrators, contributing to the informationization of Indian enterprises."

Huawei is located at Booth 2, Hall No.2 at the Bombay Exhibition Center in Mumbai. Interop Mumbai 2012 is held from Oct 10 to 12, 2012, in Mumbai, India.

SAMSUNG’S Windows 8 PC Lineup Now Available For Pre-Order; in Stores October 26

New Laptops, Samsung ATIV Smart PCs and All-in-Ones Feature Exclusive Software Offering Extended Usability Options, Convergence and Apps

Samsung Electronics America Inc., a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd, announced details about its upcoming Windows 8 mobile PC and All-In-One product lines. Building on its leadership position in the PC and tablet market, Samsung is bringing premium computing power, elegant design and an intuitive user experience to its PCs along with seamless convergence across devices, thanks to Samsung AllShare® Play. In addition, Samsung offers a range of unique applications across devices including Samsung Quick Starter, and exclusive S Pen apps such as S Note and S Memo.

“Samsung has seen extraordinary growth in the mobile PC category over the past few years, and we’re now taking our success to the next level by connecting the PC to other devices in the home or office through our convergence technology, Samsung AllShare Play,” said Mike Abary, senior vice president of consumer IT product marketing at Samsung Electronics America. “The launch of Windows 8 provides an inflection point in the evolution of the PC. Samsung has always focused on pushing the boundaries of design to create truly remarkable products that consumers and businesses want. We’re confident that we will continue to lead the future with our thoughtful, powerful approach to the computing experience.”

Samsung’s Windows 8 Product Lineup
The Samsung Windows 8 product lineup includes a diverse range of computing solutions, from highly portable laptops and Samsung ATIV Smart PCs to sleek All-In-One desktop PCs. Each product incorporates Samsung’s stylish design, intuitive hardware and premium computing components. Samsung’s new product lineup includes:


Samsung ATIV Smart PC 500T: Engineered for highly mobile users, this device provides enhanced content consumption and creation by allowing users to effortlessly switch between a traditional clamshell notebook PC and tablet PC.

Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T: With a blazing-fast Intel® Core™ i5 processor, the Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T is a powerful PC designed for on-the-go professionals. Like the 500T, the Pro 700T can easily switch between a clamshell and tablet form factor, resulting in maximum usage and compatibility from anywhere.

: The Samsung Series 5 Ultra Touch is Samsung’s first Ultrabook™ with a 10-finger multi touchscreen. With a third-generation Intel® Core™ i3 or i5 processor, premium multimedia capabilities, a high-definition screen, and an ergonomic, stylish design, the laptop delivers the mobility and performance demanded by both consumers and business users.

Samsung Series 7 All-In-One: The Samsung Series 7 All-In-One PC is a premium home PC with powerful performance packed in sleek minimalistic design. In addition to 10-finger touch capabilities, the display also recognizes hand gestures for maximum usability.

Samsung Series 5 All-In-One: Also a powerful All-In-One PC, the Series 5 was designed to serve as an ideal kitchen PC, with a keyboard and mouse that fit neatly in between the legs of the base to open up counter space and a slightly smaller screen size that users look for in that room.

Samsung Series 7 Notebook: Featuring a blazing-fast Intel® Core™ processor and a stunning aluminum shell, the Samsung Series 7 Notebook offers an excellent blend of beauty and power. With an ultra-thin LED-backlit LCD screen, it is one of the thinnest and brightest quad-core PCs on the market.

Samsung Series 9 Premium Ultrabook: Featuring one of the thinnest, lightest laptop form factors ever introduced, the Series 9 represents the pinnacle of innovation and was designed to turn heads everywhere. Its unique design and innovative engineering breaks all common perceptions of premium notebook PCs.

Powerful Connectivity and Applications
Samsung’s newest PCs feature powerful, exclusive applications that maximize productivity and ease-of-use. All of the products have the ability to seamlessly interact with other Samsung devices, such as mobile phones, tablets and TVs, through Samsung AllShare Play, fully integrating the PC into users’ home or office ecosystems. Users can easily share content between their All-In-One and other Samsung devices on the same network. They can showcase photos from their phone to the larger All-In-One display, or share a document drafted on their All-In-One with their tablet and continue editing while on the road.

Samsung’s new PCs also feature S Manager for the latest software and drivers. Included within S Manager is Samsung’s Quick Starter feature, which adds a toolbar and start button to the Windows 8 interface. This provides users with a choice of interface and offers a familiar navigation scheme. In addition, S Manager includes AllShare Play for seamless convergence across devices.

The ATIV Smart PC Pro devices are preloaded with S Pen optimized apps such as S Note, S Memo and S Cloud, allowing users to fully capitalize on the S Pen that ships embedded in a slot on the device. With 1,024 levels of sensitivity, the S Pen is designed for natural and intuitive content creation, and offers features including handwriting to text conversion and varying thickness when drawing or writing, depending on the pressure applied.

Looking up recipes on your computer has also never been easier than it is on the new Samsung Series 5 and Series 7 All-In-One PCs, thanks to Jamie Oliver’s application Jamie Oliver’s Recipes, which is exclusively pre-installed on Samsung’s Windows 8 PCs. Users can enjoy delicious recipes from around the world, developed specifically for the application and displayed in an easy to follow step-by-step format, each with beautiful high-definition photographs.

Pricing and Availability
Samsung’s Windows 8 product line is available for pre-order now at www.Samsung.com and will be available in stores October 26, 2012.

The MSRP for each product is as follows:
Samsung ATIV Smart PC 500T = $749.99
Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T = $1,199.99
Samsung Series 5 Ultra Touch: Intel® Core™ i3: $809.99; Intel® Core™ i5: $859.99
Samsung Series 7 All-In-One: 27-inch: $1,699.99; 23.6-inch: $1,099.99
Samsung Series 5 All-In-One: $799.99
Samsung Series 7 Notebook: $1,099.99
Samsung Series 9 Premium Ultrabook: Starting at $1,299.99

About Samsung Electronics America Enterprise Business Division
As a global leader in Information Technology, Samsung's Enterprise Business Division (EBD) is committed to bringing meaningful innovation to businesses of all types from small/medium businesses to the Fortune 500 elite and public agencies alike. Samsung offers a complete portfolio of solutions including virtualization, printing, displays, notebook and tablet PCs and digital signage; all designed to move businesses forward while helping to reduce operating cost and the environmental footprint. Samsung EBD is a division of Samsung Electronics America (SEA), Inc., a U.S. subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Company, Ltd. (SEC) and is among the world's largest technology companies. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com/business or call             1-866-SAM-4BIZ      .

About Samsung Electronics America, Inc.
Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (SEA), based in Ridgefield Park, NJ, is a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. The company markets a broad range of award-winning consumer electronics, information systems, and home appliance products, as well as oversees all of Samsung’s North American operations including Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, Samsung Semiconductor Inc., Samsung Electronics Canada, Inc. and Samsung Electronics Mexico, Inc. As a result of its commitment to innovation and unique design, the Samsung organization is one of the most decorated brands in the electronics industry. The company was ranked #19 in BusinessWeek/Interbrand “100 Best Global Brands,” and named as one of Fast Company’s “50 Most Innovative Companies of 2010.” For more information, please visit www.samsung.com. You can also Fan Samsung on www.Facebook.com/SamsungUSA or follow Samsung via Twitter @SamsungTweets.

* Accessible capacity varies; MB = 1 million bytes, GB = 1 billion bytes, TB = 1 trillion bytes. Please note that a portion of the hard drive is reserved for system recovery, operating system and preloaded content software.

** All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, to benefits, design, components, performance, availability and capability of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

iPad mini will present on October 23

We have previously written about the fact that the announcement of a new tablet iPad mini could be held on October 17, however, usually prior to such events to send out invitations in advance did not happen - it took just now. Apple announced on its new presentation, October 23, and not in the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco, as usual, and in San Jose, California Theatre at 10 am, the time the Pacific Coast.

Traditionally, the details of the subject event the company has not disclosed, but is expected to be announced is a mini version of the iPad with a 7.85-inch touch screen. At the invitation stated that the company "has a little more to show you" (we've got a little more to show you). Presumably, this is an allusion to a more compact tablet from Apple, though a week of it is anyone's guess.

DECT-phone teXet TX-D7465

The company "Electronic Systems" Alkotel "introduced a new cordless teXet TX-D7465, made strictly in a stylish design. The designed device combines a black glossy and matte surface of the tube, made by metal, the base material. Answering machine control is carried out using a metal joystick, inside which indicator is the number of messages received. keypad buttons are wide enough that it is not difficult to dial, and the size of the tube can hold a conversation, pressing shoulder to his ear, the company noted that for many users is a comfortable habit.

teXet TX-D7465 is equipped with a matrix display with blue backlight, menu, new items completely Russified, and the memory address book can store up to 50 names and numbers. Searching for a number in the phone book on the first letter of the person's name. Integrated digital answering machine for 15 minutes has voice prompts in Russian. Among the other features of the new DECT-phone - speakerphone, blue backlit keypad buttons, polyphonic ringtones, the date and time. The suggested retail price teXet TX-D7465 is 1890 rubles.

Inside the Apple Lightning Cable

We couldn’t help but notice that there is a lot of speculation and discussion (and frankly, a few wild guesses) concerning the functions of the Apple’s new lightning connectors. We don’t normally give (a total of five blogs!) this much attention to a single electronics teardown, but since we haven’t seen it elsewhere yet, we figured the world needed “just one more thing” on the Apple iPhone 5. We have confirmed that the Lightning cable does have four chips embedded in it, plus some passive devices. Two of these chips are very simple (only a couple of transistors), and the third is an NXP NX20P3. However, the fourth and arguably most interesting of these is the TI chip.

The above images show the location of the TI chip on the lightning connector. Once we stripped away the cable housing (easier said than done), and took the die out of the package, we found die markings of “BQ2025”. (See our die photo below). This part number is not published by TI.

However, TI does have published datasheets on the BQ2022, BQ2023, BQ2024, and BQ2026. These four chips are cataloged on TI’s website as battery fuel gauges, but they are not identical, with three of them being serial EPROMs and one of them being a battery monitor IC.

However, all four do have some common characteristics. All use a single wire SDQ interface (TI’s proprietary serial communications protocol), and all have some basic security features such as CRC generation. So, it is certainly likely that the BQ2025 does have some security implemented on it. It would also seem likely that it includes an SDQ interface.

We continued our lab work on the BQ2025 and now have a lower metal sample to view (and purchase in the Chipworks store). On this sample, we have been able to see some further details of this chip. There is a digital logic block occupying the top left portion of the chip. This block includes about 5K gates of logic. Also on the chip is the EPROM, with likely 64 or 128 bits of storage (visual inspection only, full RE not completed). There are also some large driver transistors, quite a bit of analog circuitry, and a fair amount of capacitance. This is certainly all consistent with a serial communication chip including some simple security features.

Part of the magic going on is that the Lightning connector features fewer direct connections than the prior generation connector. This means that Apple needs to apply some intelligence to what wire is sending and receiving the signals because there are fewer connections, but just as much data. Additionally, Apple has a number of patents related to authentication and security between devices. This has useful application by allowing “handshake” access to only certain function necessary for the functioning of a peripheral (such as a speaker docking station) without allowing access to the full functionality of the phone. It has additional application in smart battery applications. Both Apple and Texas Instruments (separately) have documented this security technology in a number of related patents (applied and issued) wherein they describe the passing of information from the host through to the accessory. For those interested, here are a few patent numbers, with the last being a TI patent:  20100173973A1, US8200881, US8239605, US8086781, US8161567, US823881, US8245041.

It is actually very interesting that we may have found a chip with (likely) some modest security in this cable. In this case not only related to securing their revenue stream for cables or ensuring reliable and high quality (licensed) peripherals, but in delivering useful product features that are not necessarily in the consumers top of mind. We are planning a full systems analysis on this device to further understand what exactly is going on.

Previously, we have analyzed security devices regarding medical printer media (armbands), printer cartridges, flash drive memory, batteries, and smart cards, but this is the first secure cable we have seen. The security does not come close to the herculean approaches that are used in (for example) today’s printer cartridges, but resembles the level of effort that cartridge manufacturers used to implement in the olden days. In other words, at this time the security is “just enough.” With future generations of Apple and non-Apple products, we may begin to see even stronger security and control if the market forces merit it.

To complete the story, let’s look at the other three chips on the lightning connector board. The NXP NX20P3 includes one huge transistor occupying over 75% of the die area. It also has a fair amount of analog circuitry, as would be consistent with their line of charging devices for peripherals – from our last trip to the Applied Power Electronics Conference (APEC) we know that this is a market that NXP is very strong in. The last two dies appear to be simple power transistors.Good design wins again for TI and NXP!

http://www.chipworks.com/blog/recentteardowns/2012/10/15/inside-the-apple-lightning-cable/

ADATA expands its line of solid state drives new model SP600

ADATA Technology Company announced a new model of a solid-state drive (SSD) budget level SP600 throughput speed interface 6 Gb / s. This makes it possible, according to the manufacturer, the transition to the use of SSD users who are unfamiliar with the technology and those who are confused by the high cost. Now they have the opportunity to experience a combination of affordability and high speed.

SP600 provides transfer read and write speeds 360 and 130 Mb / s, and in the mode of a random sample of the read / write blocks of 4 KB data access rate of 40,000 IOPS and 30,000 IOPS, respectively, providing a competitive balance between price and performance. The range includes the SSD ADATA SP600 drive capacity of 32, 64 and 128 GB.

SSDs SP600 will be available in the individual networks of distributors and dealers in Russia and the CIS countries.

Become a photo-pro by using your Nokia Lumia camera settings – pt 2

The other week, we took you through how to make the most of your camera settings in order to take the best possible photo, using the macro mode, changing the exposure value, and the ISO settings. Today, we’re looking at the rest of the camera settings on your Nokia Lumia.

Saturation

Nokia camera phones are built to produce as real to life photos as possible, but they may be times when you want to add more colour into your images. By using the Saturation option in the settings, you can fill your photos with lush, vivid colours, reminiscent of a fairytale. Or, turn it right the way down to add a certain dreary look.

With the saturation set to maximum, you’re often left with less detail on the subject as the colour takes over quite a bit.

Contrast

Should you want to, you can change the contrast of a photo before you take it. This is often an operation that’s easily achievable in desktop software, however, it’s good to have the option to change it on-board.

Flicker Reduction

This will only be useful when taking photos indoors and under certain lighting conditions. This reduces the flickering of lights – between 50Hz and 60Hz – that your camera might pick up on the photo.

Resolution

If you want to take photos in a different resolution to the standard one provided by your phone, you can. Choose between: 8MP 4:3, 7MP 16:9, 3MP 4:3, and 2MP 16:9.

Scenes

Changing settings in your phone can be daunting, especially when you’re looking at numbers and levels. If you’re looking for a simpler, and less scary, way to improve your photo taking, the Scenessection looks to be the easiest way. Using named scenarios like: Beach, Candlelight, Snow, or Sunset, you’ll know exactly what setting to use under different conditions.

White Balance

This is similar to the Scenes function. You can select a different option to reflect the lighting environment around you.

Metering Mode

This is a very clever function; let’s explain it with an example. Let’s say you’ve got a person standing against an empty sky, with the sun directly behind him, pressing the camera button will always absorb light from all of the image and mostly from the centre. This would cast a silhouette of the person and the glare of the sun would almost certainly engulf the subject. Changing the metering mode tells the camera to take light from another light-source.

If the bright sun is the centre of the screen and a person is on the right, pressing on the subjects sun-lit (but not as bright as the sun itself) face will absorb at that level – not the sun. This will give you more detail where you want it most.

Effects

Adding special effects after you’ve taken a photo is something we all do now. But you can add some effects before you’ve taken the picture, too. Admittedly, it’s not a big range of effects, but some basic ones we’re all used to: Black & White, Sepia, Negative, Solarise and Normal.

Whatever setting you’ve enabled or adjusted, don’t forget to pressSave settings to make sure your next photo uses the desired effect.

Social Media Week Recap

Two weeks ago Nokia travelled around the world to take part in and sponsor Social Media Week, for the 4th time running no less!

During the week speakers from various companies, organisations and professions, came together to talk about the impact of social media, socially, commercially and economically.

The event is an open forum where people can come for free, to teach, listen and share new ideas. Nokia are proud to be a sponsor of such a collaborative event, and here’s a short video from some of the top bodies in the Nokia Social team, to tell you a little bit about why it’s special, and how it’s helping to educate people regarding social media.

If this kind of thing interests you or you have some ideas or insight to share, I definitely recommend that you get involved. It’s free to attend and runs in many different countries, and as Carla said in the video, expansion to more countries may be on the horizon soon.

Support a charity with your Nokia Lumia

A kindly soul once said that the best exercise for the heart was by reaching down and helping others up.
Even if you think that is hippy nonsense, most people would agree that charities do worthwhile and important work.

Whether it is helping vulnerable children, raising money for medical research, international aid or the environment, we all have a cause that is close to our hearts.

Your Nokia Lumia smartphone can help you to support your favourite charity by donating money or simply by keeping you updated with the latest news.

Here are five of our favourite charity apps in the Windows Phone Marketplace.

Oxfam

Oxfam is a global charity dedicated to fighting poverty and providing international aid. Its website boasts that in 2011 their emergency and development work helped some 15 million people in 55 countries.

This is a beautiful app that’s been fully designed with the Windows Phone-style tiles in mind. It offers the latest news, photos, social media integration and links to help you get involved with their campaigns.

The app also makes it extremely easy for you to donate £5 directly to Oxfam through a simple SMS message.

Walk2Help

Walk2Help is a really interesting concept that allows you to make a difference without needing to hand over any cash.

The idea is that by downloading this app, it will track how far you have walked using your Lumia’s GPS functionality. The more you walk, the more points you will accumulate.

You can then donate your points towards a specific cause, for example, the building of a library or providing clothes for refugees. Once a project has collected enough points then its sponsor (a company or other benefactor) will come good on their promise.

It really is that simple. Never has taking a walk sounded like such a good idea.

GOTM

GOTM is an acronym for Give On The Mobile, a service that is dedicated to helping people donate money to charities on their phones.

This Windows Phone version is very simple to use. You search through the list of charities (there are hundreds on the list) and select the one you wish to support.

On the next screen, you choose the amount (£1, £3 or £5) and then fill in your personal details. All this information generates a text message and you just need to press send to complete the donation.

Within the app, you can select favourite charities and it remembers your last donation. You can also set up a fundraising profile if you’re trying to raise money for charity.

Just Giving

The Just Giving website is based in the UK but has an increasing international presence. It now accepts donations in all major international currencies.

Just Giving has become a popular way of donating money online and supporting your friends when they embark on sponsored pursuits, such as running marathons.

This is an unofficial app and you can’t donate money directly through it but there are still a lot of features that you may find useful. It has Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and YouTube integration for all the latest news from Just Giving.

Perhaps best of all, it pulls in informative articles from the Just Giving blog to help you with tips, such as creative fundraising ideas and helping you to secure a place on sponsored events.

SeeYourImpact

All too often giving money to charity is a rather impersonal process. You sign your cheque, put your coins in the tin or press send on your phone and that’s the end of it.

This app is an antidote to all that. You read through the stories or pick an issue that has pricked at your conscience, then select an amount that you want to donate.

A couple of weeks later you will be contacted again with photos and a report of exactly how your money has helped. More than that, it introduces you to the very person or people that has benefited from your donation.

Nokia Social Media Week - September 2012

This year Nokia were the lead sponsors for SMW 2012 all over the globe. Check this video out to experience a little taste of what SMW is all about and to see all of the events that we helped organise.

Take a look at this: http://nokia.ly/TmoaOK for more information about SMW 2012.

Join us at the Big Android BBQ for a big serving of meaty Android sessions

If you’re hungry for some meaty developer sessions, then you might want to check out the Big Android BBQ. This preeminent mobile technology conference for Android developers and enthusiasts takes place in Hurst, Texas, USA, from October 19-21. We will be there running a number of interesting and useful speaker sessions, such as a session on how to work with a dynamic sensor HAL. You will also be able to visit our booth to check out our latest products, an opportunity to talk with some of our engineering experts, and maybe pitch us an app idea for a SmartWatch app extension.  Learn more about the event and all the Sony activities after the jump.
Now into its second year, The Big Android BBQ has moved to a bigger venue to accommodate more sponsors, sessions, and attendees. Held at the state-of-the-art Hurst Convention Center in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the three-day event is packed with sessions, fireside chats, prizes, along with some good old fashioned Texas BBQ. Sony has a full plate of activities for all levels of Android developers.
Come be a part of Sony’s technical sessions
We have a full plate of Sony speakers lined up, with topics ranging from technical to super-technical:
Introduction to Dynamic Android Sensor HAL (12 noon to 01:00 pm, October 20) – Oskar Anderö is a software engineer at Sony in Lund, Sweden. His session covers the sensor HAL, the software layer giving applications direct access to the sensor components.
Google TV App Development and Opportunities (11:30 am to 12:30 pm, October 21) – Tonni Larsen and Christian Kurzke, both from Sony, will provide an overview of the Google TV platform and show how to create apps for the big screen. The session includes demos of 2nd gen Sony Google TV devices, along with app development, best practices, and new opportunities for developers.
Sony Google TV Fireside Chat (12:45 pm to 1:45 pm, October 21) – Tonni Larsen and Christian Kurzke will continue discussions on Google TV app development and developer opportunities.
In addition, don’t forget to check out the Android do-it-yourself session presented by FreeXperia member, Alin Jerpelea, DIY Android: CyanogenMod bring up workshop (12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, October 20).
Get the hook up at the Sony booth
Sony is one of the main sponsors of the event, and we’ll be on hand to demonstrate our latest products, including the Xperia T, Xperia V, Xperia J, Xperia SL, and Xperia Tablet S. You can also stop by our booth in the sponsor gallery to ask us your developer questions. You’ll also have the chance to pitch us your SmartWatch app extension ideas. If your idea (on how your existing Android application can be extended with a SmartWatch extension) wows us, you can instantly get a SmartWatch of your own to take home. And while you’re visiting us, ask us about how you can receive a limited edition Android t-shirt.

Limited edition Android t-shirt giveaway at Big Android BBQ.
About The Big Android BBQ
The Big Android BBQ is a unique three-day event that unifies the entire Android ecosystem by bringing together forums, media sites, developers, themers, device manufacturers, carriers, accessory suppliers, and Android enthusiasts. Although ticket sales have already ended, you can still get Late Registration tickets on EventBrite.
Hope to see y’all there!

Motorola Mobility GT-3 ABR Transcoder Breaks Gigapixel Barrier

Motorola introduces the world’s first multi-gigapixel transcoder for unprecedented video quality and energy efficiency

At the SCTE Cable-Tec Expo, Motorola Mobility will introduce the Motorola GT-3 ABR Transcoder—the industry’s only 3-gigapixel ABR transcoder. The Motorola GT-3 uses the latest silicon technology and Motorola’s custom video compression algorithms to enable rich, multi-screen HD and SD everywhere experiences from a slim, energy-efficient unit.

The GT-3 by the Numbers:

· THREE – three billion pixels of video content per second, blowing away traditional server-based ABR transcoders

· FIFTY – processing up to 3 billion pixels of video content every second is equivalent to nearly 50 full resolution HD programs – setting a new industry standard

· TEN – more than 10x the density of legacy server-based ABR solutions and dramatic improvements over ABR hardware solutions, which means the same transcoding capability now fits into a much leaner and more efficient unit, requiring fewer transcoders to meet the demands of today’s multi-screen HD and future higher-resolution content applications

· TWENTY-FOUR and SIXTEEN – support for up to 24 inputs and up to 16 output streams per input program, for flexible support of more video display devices

· BOTTOM LINE – higher processing performance and greater density equals energy efficiency and cost savings for service providers


Why This Matters
Consumers expect to get their favorite content—including live HD broadcasts, DVR media and on-demand programming—even when they’re not in front of their Living Room TV. The Motorola GT-3 lets service providers address this growing demand quickly and in an energy-efficient way, which ultimately means dramatically lower operational costs and a significantly reduced carbon footprint.

The GT-3 offers two distinct performance advantages for operators:

· First, it enables a broader selection of video data rates and resolutions to match the dynamic bandwidth of unmanaged networks.

· And second, its efficiency in video compression can provide higher-quality video using the same amount of bandwidth, or the same video quality at much lower bitrates—a windfall for bandwidth-constrained networks.

For subscribers, these advantages translate to better viewing experiences on TVs, PCs, tablets, and smartphones.

“The GT-3 is a leap-frog technology that addresses the future of TV: HD, DVR and on-demand media on multiple devices, wherever consumers want it,” said Joe Cozzolino, Motorola Mobility SVP and GM, Network Infrastructure. “It can deliver all the content to all the devices that today’s consumers expect, with the transcoding performance to scale to tomorrow’s connected ecosystem. The GT-3 is the latest in our portfolio of solutions for the smart, simple connected home and just one more way we’re driving the evolution of TV.”

Additional benefits of GT-3 include:

· Latest compression silicon chips for highest video quality and density

· Motorola video compression algorithms produce the highest video quality, for improved QoE at low bandwidths

· Dual power supply and I/O and system-level redundancy for 24x7 availability

· Full integration with Motorola Mobility’s end-to-end multi-screen platform

· Ad insertion support

Motorola has a long history of firsts in digital video—including digital TV and HD video services. With GT-3, Motorola is advancing the standard for video compression and leading the way for high-resolution multi-screen experiences.

GT-3 @ SCTE

Motorola approaches multi-screen TV from end-to-end: in the cloud, the network and the home.

The GT-3 is the new network component responsible for video processing. It combines with Motorola’s leading technologies—including nDVR, On-Demand, Medios (DRM, cross-platform user interfaces) and multi-screen devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops and TVs—to produce seamless multi-screen experiences.

@ the SCTE Cable-Tec Expo, Motorola’s GT-3 ABR Transcoder will power Motorola’s end-to-end live multi-screen demonstration. The fully integrated demonstration will also feature Motorola’s Medios DreamGallery, Medios SecureMedia, EDGE device management, Motorola’s nDVR technology (M3 Media Server, Streamer, and Recorder), plus Motorola’s portfolio of IP set-tops, video gateways, tablets and smartphones.
For more on Motorola @ SCTE Cable-Tec Expo, please visit our virtual press center or stop by the Motorola Booth #2812 to see a demonstration of the GT-3 technology.

Please visit our blog, MediaExperiences2Go and follow us on Twitter @Motomedia2go and #scteExpo.

About Motorola Mobility
Motorola Mobility, owned by Google, fuses innovative technology with human insights to create experiences that simplify, connect and enrich people's lives. Our portfolio includes converged mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets; wireless accessories; end-to-end video and data delivery; and management solutions, including set-tops and data-access devices. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.

Samsung and Apple are about to break the contract to supply parts?

A senior company Samsung, on condition of anonymity, told The Korea Times that the South Korean manufacturer of components and the American company Apple are on the verge of breaking commercial relations. According to him, the problem is that Apple representatives have indicated that they do not intend to re-use technology of its main competitor. One of these steps to get rid of the influence of the competitor study was transferring production chipset A7 at the facilities of TSMC. At the moment, this processor has not yet developed, but it is expected that TSMC is not worse Samsung cope with production quad chip for 20-nm process technology. At the same time, the current 32nm A6 is Samsung, although it was entirely developed inside Apple. About that Samsung and Apple d present the main competitors in the market says a lot of facts. Including not only direct market competition, but also a great number of trials around the world, which are regularly covered by media. At the same time, Samsung is one of the largest semiconductor manufacturers and a major supplier of components for Apple. In the case of termination of contracts real hit both companies: Samsung will lose billions of dollars of contracts for the supply of its products, and Apple will have to find new producers, solving the issue of control of quality and production of sufficient production in a short time.

MTS-Ukraine will give Internet users new smartphones

The mobile operator "MTS Ukraine" announced the launch of the action with a network of "HELLO" to activate "Internet Inside» buyers of new promotional smartphones.

From October 13 to December 31 of any MTS subscriber Prepayments, who bought a promotional smartphone, tablet, or phone network "HELLO" can activate "Internet Inside» and monthly get free 1500 MB of mobile internet. Depending on the purchased goods, "Internet Inside» valid for 3, 6 or 12 months.

Mechanics of action: the purchase of promotional items in the shops "ALLO" subscriber receives a check from the activation service "Internet Inside», which consists of 14 digits. After that, it needs to send an SMS to a toll free number 303 with an activation code in the body of the message (no spaces or other characters). Service "Internet Inside» connected within days after sending SMS. How to connect the subscriber will be notified by SMS.

Offer valid only for new and existing prepaid subscribers of MTS.

Logitech K810: Bluetooth-keyboard for PCs, tablets and smartphones

Logitech has announced a new wireless keyboard Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard K810. It is designed for computers based on Windows (including the new OS, and Windows 8), and for mobile devices running Android and iOS. The keyboard is connected to the main unit via technology Bluetooth, as it has a backlight function and switch between PC, tablet and smartphone with a tap.

Light automatically adapts to the level of illumination: the less light in the room, the brighter the light, the brightness can also be adjusted manually. The motion sensor detects the approach of the hands to the keyboard and includes a backlight-off, helping to reduce power consumption when the keyboard is not in use. The new solution is very compact and is equipped with low-profile keys, the keyboard exercises can be performed on the USB-port. Logitech K810 price in Russia is 4490 rubles.

SoftBank acquires 70% stake in Sprint

Japanese corporation SoftBank (including offers mobile services under the brand name SoftBank Mobile) and the North American mobile operator Sprint Nextel Corporation announced the signing of a series of definitive agreements, which SoftBank invests about $ 20.1 billion in the Sprint, of which 12, $ 1 billion will be spent on the acquisition of 70% of the shares, and the remaining $ 8 billion - to strengthen the balance of Sprint.

The deal was approved by both boards of directors - SoftBank and Sprint. Completion of the transaction is subject to a positive decision by shareholders Sprint, regulatory approvals, as well as other closing conditions. The companies expect to close the merger by mid-2013.

After closing, the headquarters of Sprint would still located in Overland Park, Kansas. New board of directors Sprint will include 10 chlenv, including at least three members of the Board of Sprint. Acting Executive Director of Sprint, Daniel Hesse (Daniel Hesse) will continue its work in the same office and the updated Sprint as a new board member.