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Apple Gadgets Tablet PC

How to setup your new iPad mini

The new iPad Mini from Apple, awaited for several months has been launched; and is one of the most sought after tablets, considering the craze associated to any other Apple devices.  Pitted against the smaller-sized tablets from Samsung and HTC; iPad Mini, fast followed the revolutionary new iPad  and has breakthrough features like Siri, Notification Center, iMessage  and iCloud to name a few. Know everything about setting up and securing your new iPad and iPad Mini here.

Apple Inc. no wonder has the Midas touch to create or transform everything into innovations that change the way technology is perceived. From the early Mac to the revolutionary iPhone and then the iPad to the competitively rejuvenated iPad Mini, Apple has always managed to retain its ‘Think Different’ motto.

At a time when Apple managed to break-free of it number module following iPad 2 with the ‘new’ iPad, it was evident that Apple already had larger plans up its sleeves and that has recently been given shape with iPad Mini. While, perhaps for the first time with the launch of iPad Mini, Apple seems to have tried to keep pace with its competitors in creating a smaller tab (in the likes of contemporaries like Samsung, HTC, etc.).

So, if you have got yourself a new iPad Mini, you must be wondering as to how to set it up and get started. Well, although there are many similarities to the early versions of the iPad, the introduction of the iCloud is a major transformation and can well be called a game-changer of sorts.

Setting up iCloud

iCloud in real terms has made access to iDevices seamless. As, with this new technology, you are no longer required to plug your iPhone, iPad or iPad Mini into iTunes/ Mac/or Windows PC for the initial Set up, to upgrade or for Backup. Thanks to iCloud, you can now do all these easily and much faster on your local Wi-Fi network or over-the-air; and most importantly without worrying about forgetting them – as all the routine processes happen automatically.

Setting up Siri

Siri, the Nuance-technology enabled virtual assistant from Apple has craved its place as the most loved and trusted aide that not only listens to whatever you ask you to do; in fact it is a great way to stay in touch, on schedule, and informed.
Siri, which was introduced with the iPhone 4S, has now been integrated to offer its services to the new iPad and iPad Mini, courtesy iOS 6. Siri which was originally offered only in a few chosen languages is now available in more languages, locations, and features.
It is quite easy to setup, configure, secure, and start using Siri instantly; however, there may be a few instances which will require you to enable it. Just as, there may be a few settings that may require configuration so as to make Siri more secure like – in case you choose to bypass your PIN lock and access your contacts and other data, make sure to check out all your options and choose the most suitable and eclectic blend of feasibility and security.

Setting Up Notification Center

Notification Center unquestionably is the lifeline and the most dynamic feature of Apple devices including the iPad and iPad Mini. It is rightly said that setting up Notification Center is integral to functioning of your iDevice since it serves to be the most viable medium to streamline related functions like reminders, alerts, calls, messages, announcements, etc. that inundate your iPad or iPad Mini.
The best thing about Notification Center is that you can badge your icons. This will not only help you know about your pending items; all the more you can have the list of everything right on your Lock screen. So, you can be well-informed and aware of any notifications immediately.

Setting up iMessages

iMessage is one of Apple’s most in-demand proprietary services that works on any device running iOS 5 or higher, and any Mac running OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion or higher and so also in the new iPad and iPad Mini. iMessage allows you to receive free, SMS and MMS-like messages on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac from any other iMessage user. You can not only send text, photo, and video messages regularly, but contacts, voice memos, and locations as well.

You can set up iMessage by just start using it right away. However, you will require some amount of configuration in a few steps to be done depending upon the device you are using.

Get introduced to your new iPad Mini and feel empowered with the ‘power of small’, since all great things are said to come in small packages.

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Apple Mobile

Why You Should Not Buy the iPhone 5

The release of iPhone 5 has got a mixed review from industry stalwarts and gizmo geeks. If you think it is time to pick up the new phone to replace your old iPhone 4S, which is not really old by any means. I mean, you just got your phone 6 months ago, but when Apple said they will be unveiling a new model, you are about ready to trade in your current one.
The question, though, is “why?” Is the iPhone 5 actually so much better than the 4S that it is worth changing after just a few months? Why don’t you wait it out and see if you really need to make a change? Maybe keeping your current one will not be a terrible choice.
In fact, here are the top reasons why you should not buy an iPhone 5, or at least not yet.

You don’t need the iPhone 5 to get the iOS6

What made you excited about the new iPhone are the new OS improvements. There are the new Maps that provide great 3D renders, the improved Siri, and the Passbook ticket and gift card system. Newsflash, though: you can get those improvements (not all, of course) with an OS upgrade that will be available come September 19. So try out the iOS 6 on your iPhone 4S first before leaping for the iPhone 5 just for a new OS.

You might want to check if there are glitches that you have to worry about

Remember when you had the iPhone 4 and you lose signal whenever you hold the phone a certain way? Yeah, that was a big deal back then and even resulted in a class action lawsuit. It ended with the issuance of the bumper case to solve the problem. Not saying that the iPhone 5 will have the same issues, but won’t it be more convenient to find these things out before your purchase. So wait it out and see if there will be reports of glitches that can be deal breakers.

You don’t really want to be stuck in another 2-year contract

According to CNET, the iPhone 5 will not be exclusive to Verizon, AT&T and Sprint and there will be a prepaid version available via Cricket by September 28.  It probably won’t be long until it is also available through Virgin Mobile. It might cost you more for the phone but at least you are not tied down by a cumbersome contract.

The bigger screen can be trouble for some apps

For the first time, the screen of the iPhone will be bigger at 4 inches. But there is a reason why Apple was apprehensive in using bigger screens in the first place. Some apps were designed for the 3.5-inch screen specifically. So make sure that your important apps like Box, RingCentral, Evernote, or even your favorite games are functioning properly on the iPhone 5

You would need new accessories

With the changes in its dock connector, you would also need to upgrade your other external accessories. Apple is likely to release new adapter that will connect the old and new connector but that will still cost money. Not to mention that the new phone size will mean your old cases will not fit as well.

There are other choices out there

Frankly, a lot of what the iPhone 5 is bragging about already exists with other brands’ flagship phones. Bigger screen? The S3 and the One X has bigger. Fast wireless?  Dual Band wireless is actually pretty average nowadays. Great Camera? The One X can make an argument that it is better. Point is, the iPhone 5 may be slightly better than the 4S but it is not necessarily better than other brands like, say, Samsung S3 and HTC OneX.

The image below will give you a detailed spec wise comparison of iPhone 5 with 3 of the most up-to-date smart phones viz Samsung Galaxy S3, Droid Razr HD and Nokia Lumia 920.

As you have ample of choice with you with better features and capability, now it’s upto you to decide what you would wish to buy.