Google Crusher: Private Blog Networks

Hi guys. It's been a while I've just been so busy lately. So, what's new in SEO these days? Well, at this point in time what's working is something called private blog networks. Some of you may be familiar with this concept already, but there are nuances to it that you may not have heard of.

The guys over at Source Wave have done a great video showing some of the tips and tricks as it relates to blog networks and how to set them up cheaply. You can see the video below. Make sure to take it all in as this video does in fact highlight some of the considerations one needs to make when using PBN's. Hope you guys enjoy it!

Duplicate Content and Google: Matt Cutts Discusses what you need to know

We've all heard of the duplicate content penalty, but what is it really? In this interesting video from Google's head of webspam Matt Cutts, he explains some of the nuances regarding duplicate content. One interesting point to note,is that he acknowledges that about 25-30 percent of information on the web is actually duplicate content. He also talks about clustering as a solution to some duplicate content issues. Check out the video below and don't forget to let everyone know what you think in the comment section as well.

Guest Post: Creating Content that Drives Traffic to your Mobile Site

With Google’s new algorithm Hummingbird having been introduced recently, the way we now approach SEO has changed a little. It doesn’t mean that things have completely changed and all that hard work pre-Hummingbird is going to waste, it just means that mobile is no longer simply a channel of your SEO strategy. Mobile has become a central focus of SEO strategy, making website owners and operators ask whether their site is up to scratch in terms of quality of content, design and the overall usability of the site. If you currently manage your own website and social networking profile, perhaps now is the time to consult an online marketing company like Optimising to help you navigate these new changes and developments in the world of Google and SEO.

We talk about mobile sites because this mode of viewing content is becoming more and more common for people’s media consumption. Over half of Americans own a smart phone, meaning their access to media is almost always through that little screen or even tablet. A well-designed website says to Google that you are a legitimate business. To achieve your full potential on mobile, you need to offer your customers full features in a limited space. The best way to do this is to concentrate on how you organise your content. There are various design considerations that need to be taken into account to produce a high functioning mobile site, like the length of posts, white space, use of visuals and the ability to share on social media.

The debate around the kind of content continues over each change of Google’s algorithms. Longer content is obviously great for SEO but it isn’t exactly what customers want. They want specific and succinct answers to their questions that are answered in around a paragraph or more. Seeing as how the modern trend is writing posts around 1000 words long, this doesn’t satisfy the taste of those looking for a quick response, especially on mobile. An alternative is to create short introductions to your articles that are placed at the start of your long form articles, but only use the extended, descriptive introduction on your mobile sites where users are more likely to only want that information.

One of the most important pieces of information not to forget is the importance of engaging in social media with your customer and client base. If you are sharing your content and other things through a social networking platform, be prepared to engage with those who engage with you. Don’t just put it out there and wait for the likes to roll in. Respond to questions and give the people what they want!

Ivy Delfin works in online marketing, specialising in enhancing mobile internet sites. You can find her on her google plus page here.

LG G Pad 8.3 Unboxing

LG have recently released the LG G Pad 8.3. It will be available to US customers from November 3rd, and is already available for pre-order. Aaron from Phonedog did an unboxing with this tablet and you can see it in the video below.

In terms  of specifications, the G pad isn't looking too shabby. It's got a quad core 1.7 GHz processor on of course an 8.3 inch display. It runs on Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2 with 2GB of RAM and a micro SD slot for up to 64 GB of storage.

The G Pad has a display resolution of 1920*1700 pixels, which works out to be 273 ppi. While this is definitely a great display, it's not at the highest end of the spectrum. Considering that it costs 350 bucks, that's a bit disappointing.

It has a 5 megapixel back facing camera, which also takes 1080p video. In terms of battery size, this tablet has a 4600 mAh battery which gives about ten hours of normal use before needing to recharge. In terms of features, LG have included a few neat ones with this tablet. Firstly, there's Q Pair which allows Android phone users to connect with the G Pad and answer phone calls as well as texts.

In addition to Q Pair, there is also a feature called KnockOn, which allows the user to tap the screen twice to lock it and tap it twice again to unlock. This does make things a little more convenient.

So far, the G Pad does look to be quite a good tablet. It just doesn't justify it's high price tag, for now at least. Maybe as more users put the G Pad through its paces, more will be uncovered.

Google Glass Update XE 10

Google released their update for Glass a little more than a week ago and following the trend of other updates, named it XE10. This update is not as large as XE9, but does bring with it some interesting new features.

Firstly, it has the ability to inform you of mass transit features near your location. Things like where to change trains and how far is the next bus stop are now added in Glass. In addition to this, Glass users can now tap links in Google Glass. This has been a big problem for many glass users for a while now, so it seems that Google are indeed working on customer feedback.

There's also the addition of Avatars in messages and comments, which is pretty useful. Further to these updates, coders have also found files related to double blink detection in the Gaze folder. This could mean the use of double blinking as a selection mechanism in future Google Glass updates. Guess we'll just have to wait and see how that one pans out.

War Thunder Trailer for PS4

A new trailer for the World War 2 game War Thunder, has just been released. It features a slow motion view of action on the front lines. Tanks being blown up, artillery shells being fired and of course a view in the cockpit to top it all off. Gaijin Entertainment looks to have a winner with this game on the PS4, so check out the trailer below.

War Thunder started off as an MMO franchise on the PC and amassed a 1.5 million strong fan base. It now comes to the console for the first time and everything looks promising. The graphics are stunning and with the increased capabilities of the PS4, new and innovative gameplay mechanics have been promised by the execs at Gaijin Entertainment.

This installment of the War Thunder franchise, will feature gameplay not only in the air, but also on land and at sea. Additionally, support for the Playstation cloud has been announced as well as many social options. It seems like War Thunder is going all out with this title. Here's hoping it lives up to the hype.

PS4 New Commercial: A Perfect Day

Sony aired a brand new commercial for the Playstation 4 during Monday night football. Check it out in the video below courtesy IGN. Makes me excited about the new console, but then again, I've loved the Playstation since it's first incarnation way back when. Let me know what you guys think of it in the comments section below.

Google Glass Update XE 9 has arrived

The Google Glass update for September has arrived. Officially named XE9, Glass now comes with updated features including new Google Now cards. These include Nearby Photo Spot which alerts you to a popular photo spot. There are also Transit cards which identifies mass transit opportunities and Reminder cards.

In addition to the above, there is a feature called Sound Search. Basically, this program will listen to a clip of a music track of your choosing and then try to identify the name of the song as well as the artist. This sounds like a real time waster to me but no doubt will be quite enjoyable.

A new feature called vignettes has also been debuted. This allows you to post a screenshot of your Glass display above a photo. Google apps account support and news results in search are also noteworth additions.

All the Glass explorers out there will certainly be happy with the XE 9 update for September. It is clear that Google is putting serious effort behind their updates for Glass so it seems that, at least for now, Google Glass is on pace to make its retail debut in the future.

Motorola Moto X Scratch Test

Motorola's newest smartphone offering the Moto X has been out for a couple weeks now and many users are quite enamored with this phone. It boasts a 4.7 inch, 720*1280 pixel display and if bought through the Motomaker website, the level of customization offered is insane.

In addition to the above, the Moto X runs on Android 4.2 which is a bit of a drawback seeing that Android 4.3 is already out. Anyway, as with many new smartphones on the market today, there is always the question of the phone's ability to resist scratches. Of course, someone always steps up to the plate and answers this question once and for all.

So, let's get right down to it. Below is a video courtesy Phonebuff which shows a Moto X smartphone being put through the ringer with a knife as well as a hammer! Those of you that don't like to see expensive phones get beat up, really shouldn't watch this video. For everyone else, check it out below.

Google glass update XE8

The google glass developers have just rolled out another update for the glass. Owners of Google Glass can now use new voice commands as well enjoy new Google Now cards.

Two completely new voice commands have been added to the system. First, there's "Post an update" and there's also "Take a note". Developers have stated that the take a note command will work in conjunction with Evernote. As an Evernote fan myself, this sounds like good news.

New commands have also been added to allow users the option of handsfree navigation and the addition of hashtags also. In addition to this, a new video player has been added to the system that requires a tap to start and pause as well as a swipe motion to fastforward or rewind.

These updates that come out each month are in fact quite important and not just the usual minor bug fixes. This is good and also quite necessary if Google wants Glass to be user friendly and accepted into the main stream tech world sooner rather than later.

Ten must have Plex Channels

The media server solution called Plex has given consumers a wide variety of choices when it comes to entertainment. Along with streaming your DVD's and photos, Plex also gives us the option of viewing various channels. However, with all these channels available it can be frustrating sometimes to find something really good to watch. So, with this in mind, let's take a look at some of the best that Plex has to offer.

First up is CBS. Yes, this station can be seen per the usual setup, but if you're really serious about a cord cutter setup, then streaming this channel over Plex is quite useful. You could catch up with all your local and international news and programs. Other stations such as ABC and NBC also provide some of the same things so it's really up to you to decide if you want to watch one of these channels or all.

Next on the list is National Geographic. This is of course the quintessential science programming channel. Whether its animals,plants or science related, this station has it all. As with CBS above, you could also get this station through normal channels, but it is nice to set up the plex server to replace the traditional methods.

Let's move on to YouTube. The premier video streaming solution online certainly must be on  everyone's list. An interesting fact here is that the Roku, a set top box that Plex can connect to, does not natively support Youtube. Roku have stated however, that they are considering adding Youtube as part of their channel lineup so we might see this in the future.

Since we've just covered YouTube, let's move on to Devour. This dark sounding channel simply analyzes YouTube to discover the most popular videos on the site right now. Perfect for those who always like to be on top of things with respect to video.

Along with the best video content, you'll want to have great music also. This is where Pitchfork Tv comes in. Yes, another witch trial type name but it does a good job at providing quality music videos for your enjoyment.

Of course, no streaming solution would be complete without a sports channel. This is where ESPN comes into play. The premier sports provider can be streamed via Plex so you won't have any problems catching the big game.

Another channel I find engaging is Ted. It' s always great to tune in and  see society's top thinkers discuss the major issues at hand.

If you're a fan of Restaurant Impossible like I am, then you will definitely want to have this next channel in your lineup. The Food Network channel can also be streamed via Plex. Whether it's Giada,  Bobby or Elton you won't miss a thing with this channel.

For the redditor's among us, Reddit can be viewed through the Plex server also. One of the top technology websites around, Reddit encourages discussion of today's major news stories.

Finally we have Netflix. You can easily stream any movie from your own home by installing this channel to your Plex server. A must for the movie buffs among us.

Ok guys, that's it for this post. Even though I only listed ten stations here, there are thousands more to choose from so you will definitely never be lacking for options when it comes to Plex. If you have a favorite station please let us know in the comment section below.

*Image courtesy Sea Grape

Otter box Defender Case for IPad

Many people have the problem of their IPad being damaged by inadvetent spills, dust or other mishaps. The cost of then having to fix it can be high. This is where buying a strong protective case can help. One great case I've found is the Otterbox Defender case. Strong and sturdy it really does what it's supposed to, and that's protect your IPad.

The Otterbox case has really been built solidly. It is composed of three layers along with a built in screen protector and kickstand. The three layers consist of a solid inner layer, an interior foam layer and a polycarbonate outer layer. These layers in combination protect your IPad from dust as well as drops.

The screen protector works quite well especially since it is built in because there is no need to stick it on yourself. One disadvantage though, is that this case is quite heavy. This means that traveling with your IPad can become a little tougher with the extra weight and bulk.

Overall, the Otterbox Defender series of IPad cases do in fact serve the intended purpose. Whether it's a toddler trying to see if your IPad can bounce, or an accident of your own making, the Otterbox works. For more info on this product, you can check it out here. Also, feel free to list your experiences with the Otterbox or any other type of IPad case in the comment box below.

Battlefield 4 New Trailer : Frostbite 3 Looks Epic

EA's action shooter game, Battlefield 4 is scheduled to be released on October 29th 2013 in North America. A new trailer has been recently released showing some more footage of the action using the new Frostbite engine. There is one caveat for english speaking game enthusiasts though, the trailer is in French. Be that as it may, do we really need to know what is being said? All we  need to see is the jaw dropping action, which we in fact do. So, check it out below.

Battlefield 4 is a sequel to Battlefield 3 which was released in 2011. In the single player campaign, you control Sgt Daniel Recker and the year is 2020. There is also the multiplayer campaign available in which you can choose to play as the US, China or Russia. For more info and pre order information, check it out here.

Also, if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to use the comment box below.

LG G2 Overview: Big Screen and Buttons on the Back

LG have officially announced their next flagship device, the LG G2. This was done at a launching event in New York earlier today. Some key points of interest were the use of a Snapdragon 800 processor and the design choice of placing the volume rocker and power button on the back face of the device. Also, it was revealed that the phone will be released in North America in Q3 2013 to the four major carriers with South Korea being the first to receive the new smartphone.

The LG G2 certainly matches up and in certain areas exceeds its competitors when we look at the base specs. Boasting a monster Quad Core Qualcomm 800 Snapdragon processor at a speed of 2.26 GHz this device is certainly no slouch. In fact, these specs alone will ensure that this phone will not have any trouble dealing with apps and other software out on the market now. In addition to this, it comes with a 5.2" full 1080p HD display at 423ppi. Not bad, not bad at all. The material used for the display is the scratch resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 3. This phone runs on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean. 

G2 Video Courtesy Phonedog

The G2 comes with a 3000mAh battery, which LG have stated should last about 1.2 days without needing to charge. On this front the G2 definitely outperforms both the S4 and HTC One. The G2 also has 2GB of RAM and 32 or 64 GB of storage. One noticeable drawback though is that there is no place for  an external micro SD card to increase storage capacity. Another noteworthy point is that LG have placed some emphasis on GRAM in their smartphone design which I personally feel is a smart move as many of us do love to play games on our phones.

Without a doubt, the most interesting feature of this phone is the design. Placing the volume rocker and power button on the back of the phone is a bit of a daring move. LG have stated that this was done because of research that showed it was easier to reach for many people when dealing with large phones. While this may be true, reprogramming oneself to reach for the back of the phone instead of the side might take a while. Another aspect of this phone's design are the very narrow bezels.

In terms of new and innovative features the G2 has a few worth mentioning. Firstly, there's Answer Me which is supposed to automatically answer any call as long as the phone is raised to your ear. I must say, that does seem pretty interesting. Another feature has been termed Guest Mode. Basically, what this does is show certain apps on screen based on whether it's the phone's user or someone else that unlocks the phone.

The G2 comes with a 13MP rear facing camera and a 1.2MP front facing one. It packs a punch in this regard with optical image stabilization and eight times zoom. Added to this there is an LED flash and camera modes such as Beauty mode, Panorama and Burst mode.

Overall, I feel that LG have definitely made a positive statement of intent with the G2. In terms of the specs, it is definitely up there with the best of them and in terms of design they've gone ahead and tried something new. It is just a matter of time now to see whether LG can truly challenge the big boys in the lucrative smartphone market.

So, what do you think? Will you be buying an LG G2 when it comes out later this year?

* Image courtesy Javier Ferreiro

Garmin Nuvi Portable Vehicle GPS Review(3597LMTHD)

Garmin have released their 2013 range of vehicle navigation products a few months now. Included in this was the Garmin Nuvi 3597 LMTHD, which is their premium vehicle navigation offering. Since there are quite a few GPS navigation products on the market currently, let's take a closer look at this Garmin offering and see if it can stand out from the crowd.

Let's start off with the screen. It comes with a 5 inch capacitive screen with a resolution of 800*480 pixels. This translates into a crisp and clear output that strikes one as very impressive especially if you've owned previous Garmin models. There is one drawback here though and it comes in the form of reflections when viewing the screen. The unit itself is made of aluminium and this gives it a solid feel while still allowing it to be lightweight. The on/off switch is located on the back of the unit instead of at the top in previous models. In addition to this, the windshield mount is magnetic so all you have to do is place the unit near the mount and it just snaps into place. The unit also comes with 8GB of memory and an expandable SD card slot should you require more storage space.

The user interface has also been upgraded by Garmin which gives it a more modern look. The 3597 LMTHD comes with updated maps with future updates free for the life of the product. Many interesting places are preloaded into the device which makes it easier when searching for a well known spot. Of course, some consumers have reported issues such as incorrect or out of date directions, so the map system certainly isn't perfect.

The 3597 also uses a feature Garmin calls Garmin Real Directions. Basically, instead of the usual street names that you get from a navigation system, this unit can reference actual places of interest to guide you along the way. This is actually quite a nice feature and one which I think a lot of people will use. It is important to note that since the landscape around us is constantly changing, the unit might reference something that is no longer there.

This model also responds to your voice. All you have to do is simply say the words Voice Command, and the unit then waits for your instruction. This feature works pretty well but I think some more work needs to go into this system as it doesn't always respond. Along with voice activated response, the unit can give directions by using a generated voice. The voice itself does sound more natural than some others I have heard in the past and it is safer to listen to directions rather than having to read them out.

Let's move on to what Garmin have termed HD Digital Traffic. This is just a fancy name for the traffic estimator software that comes with the device. It receives updated traffic information twice per minute and guides you to find the quickest route to your required destination. This feature also has the voice capabilities detailed above which is a nice touch.

Overall, the Garmin 3597 LMTHD is a great device for those looking to buy a vehicle navigation system. The voice command and real direction systems stand out for me as great features. When you factor in the free lifetime map updates you get a great package. For more info on the Garmin 3597, click here.
Okay guys, that's it for this post. As usual, any questions or comments please feel free to use the comment box below.

Nokia Lumia 1020 Specs: Cameraphone Perfection

Nokia's premiere smartphone offering the Nokia Lumia 1020 is out on the market and has already received some positive reviews. It is especially targeted to those smartphone users who like to have  really good camera capabilities with their phone. In this regard, this Windows Phone 8 powered device boasts a 41MP camera. Yes, that's not a typo! Utilizing such a high end camera should result in fantastic pictures, so, let's take a deeper look at the phone's specs and see if it delivers.

The Lumia 1020 has a 4.5 inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 332 ppi. It runs on a 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 processor with 2GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage which unfortunately cannot be increased. While these specs aren't necessarily mind blowing, the phone runs quite fast and one of the unique features of this phone is its ability to have a viewable screen even in direct sunlight. This is something we have yet to see in many other smartphones and is definitely a major plus for this device.

In terms of the overall design the power, volume and shutter buttons are located along the right edge while on the bottom of the phone there is the speaker and a micro usb charging port. One major drawback I found with this phone however, is the camera lens on the back. The lens is quite large as one might expect and as a result of this the phone has a piece jutting out at the back. This can be a bit irksome when handling the phone and certainly trying to rest it flat on any surface is not possible.

This smartphone comes  with a 2300mAh non removable battery which is a bit disappointing. Even though you do get a full days use with this phone without having to recharge, making it non removable similar to the HTC One does hurt the power users among us. Nokia has estimated that you can get about 13 hours of talk time and approximately 16 days of standby usage out of this phone.

Okay, so let's get to it. The main reason for this phone is undoubtedly the camera. It comes with a staggering 41MP rear camera with optical image stabilization, a Xenon flash and 6x digital zoom. The zoom on this camera is fantastic. The quality of the picture stays true and clear even at a very high zoom. Furthermore, two pictures are actually taken at the same time when you press the capture button. One of the pictures is the full res version and the other is a 5MP version. The smaller resolution picture is the one that you can then send to family and friends immediately through the usual internet resources. The full resolution pic however, can only be accessed later by plugging the phone through the usb into a computer. In addition to its camera capabilities this smartphone also takes 1080p video recordings.

Let's now move on to the apps. The Windows app store itself has about 160,000 apps currently available and while that's quite a large number, it pales in comparison to Android and iOs. In terms of camera apps there's the Pro Camera app, Creative Studio and Smart Camera among others. Utilizing the Pro Camera app you can manually adjust settings such as ISO, flash as well as the exposure.

Overall it could be said that in terms of the camera capabilities, this phone has no peers in the current market. Certainly, Nokia has targeted the camera enthusiasts with this particular smartphone offering and I don't think they will be disappointed. However, the less than stellar apps and the inability to expand the storage do count as drawbacks. In terms of availability, it's only available with AT&T for $299 on a two year contract. Yes, it is a pretty big commitment but as I said earlier if the camera is your main focus then this phone is definitely  for you. 


* Images courtesy piercedavid

Pikmin 3: Fruit Foraging is Super Fun

The ever lovable Pikmin have returned in Pikmin 3, which will be released for the Wii U in North America on August 4th. The strategy game which casts you as a group of explorers having crash landed on an alien planet is back for its third installment. So, let's delve a little deeper shall we?

The basic storyline is that you command three explorers that have left their home planet in search of food. Unfortunately, the ship that they're travelling in crashes on an alien planet. The planet however, has an abundance of fruit which your team determines to harvest and carry back home. This is where the Pikmin come in to play. An agreement is struck between your team and the Pikmin where the Pikmin will help you gather fruit and spaceship parts, while you protect the Pikmin. In your role as protector, it is imperative that you gather all the Pikmin into the ship before nightfall. Failure to do so results in a frightening scene where predators devour your precious Pikmin.

 

Pikmin Trailer Courtesy Nintendo

The Pikmin themselves are of many different types. There are red Pikmin which are impervious to fire, white Pikmin which are very quick runners as well as many other types. Two new types to the franchise are rock Pikmin which can be thrown at your enemies and flying Pikmin that can reach otherwise inaccessible areas. It is up to you to decide which Pikmin to use at what juncture in the game in order to progress.

The different areas of the Pikmin world constitute the levels in the game. The main game itself lasts approximately ten hours which, to many gamers, will be dissapointingly short. There is however a mission mode which is ostensibly more difficult than the main game and definitely forces you to devise a proper strategy to complete. In addition to this, there is a multiplayer mode where you can go up against a friend. 

Overall this game is quite a well made one with beautiful scenery and awe inspiring monsters to challenge. The variety of Pikmin available also challenges one to develop the required strategy so as to defeat the varied enemies and complete in game puzzles. For those of you that have enjoyed previous versions of Pikmin, picking this game up is really a no brainer.

For info on pricing and more, check  it out here. Hope you guys enjoyed this post and don't forget to leave a comment below.

Evernote 5 Beta Overview

{Credit:Evernote}

Evernote has released the beta version of Evernote 5 for Windows desktop. The very popular notetaking software is currently allowing users to try it out before its full release later this year. One of the first things that is noticeable with Evernote 5 is that the user interface has been redesigned to give it a more modern appearance.

Additionally, there are quite a few new features one of which is named Card View. Basically, the notes have been redesigned to appear as cards with a picture and some text below it. It looks beautiful and it definitely seems very Pinterest like.

Another interesting upgrade is termed Atlas. This new feature catergorizes notes based upon the geographical location where they were first taken down. Again, the Evernote designers have chosen to use cards as the display mechanism. One thing that is disappointing though is that there still isn't any right to left button although this could change as Evernote 5 is still in beta mode.

Evernote 5 Promo

For those of you that wish to check out all the new features as well as download the beta version of Evernote 5, you can check it out here. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to use the comment box below.

Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Unboxing

Samsung have just released another tablet onto the market with the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3. It's got three different versions with a 7 inch, 8 inch and 10 inch screen. Yes, they  are releasing a lot of these devices basically flooding the market but if there is a demand then Samsung will surely continue to supply them. So, how does it stack up you ask? Well, let's take a deeper look into the 8 inch version of this tablet.

The Tab 3 runs on the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean operating system and it has a 1.5 GHz dual core processor. It comes with 1GB of RAM and 16 GB of memory. This could be increased using a 64GB SD card. In addition to the above, there is a 1.3MP front facing camera and a 5MP rear camera.

Taking a look at these specs, one could say that it isn't exactly earth shattering and one would be right. I would say though that the performance of the Galaxy Tab could prove to be surprising so only after some time using it under various conditions would we get the full picture. For now though, let's just watch the unboxing vid courtesy of Technobuffalo. Hope you guys enjoy.

*Image courtesy jfingas

Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom Specs

Ever wanted more from the camera on your phone? Then the Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom might be for you. It's basically a fusion between the Galaxy S4 Mini and the Samsung camera. Yes, I know, it sounds a bit strange but let's take a look at its specifications and functionalities to see if we can understand it better.

 

S4 Zoom Unboxing courtesy Phonedog

First off, it runs on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean  and boasts a 1.5 GHz Dual Core processor. It has a 4.3 inch qHD Super AMOLED display with a 2330mAh removable battery and 1.5 GB of RAM. In terms of its design it looks like the S4 mini when viewed from the front while it takes the look of a camera when viewed from behind. While the aforementioned specs aren't anything to write home about, this phone really is all about the camera, which we'll take a look at now.

The S4 Zoom has a 1.9 MP front facing camera for self portraits and video chat while it sports a 16MP rear facing camera with f /3.1-6.3, 24-240mm and 10x optical zoom. You won't find any other smartphone with that amount of zoom so the pictures you take will look quite a bit better than your usual smartphone in normal light conditions.

There are also a ton of scene modes to select on this device. Modes like HDR, Panorama, Fireworks, Drama and Landscape are available on this device. There is also a Smart Mode Suggest feature which takes a look at the scene you wish to capture and then suggests the appropriate mode. All these features are quite good and do add a lot to this phone.

Since this phone is an Android device, there are many apps that you can download to edit and share your photos. This gives it an added dimesion when compared to your normal point and shoot camera and is a definite advantage.

The Zoom sports a larger CMOS sensor than normal smartphones but when compared to DSLR cameras it really comes in as just about average. I guess this is to be expected since this is also a phone and not a dedicated camera. The downside to this phone's philosophy is that it gets caught between two worlds's, is it a smartphone or is it a camera. In the end, it just averages in both departments so only those of us that are really interested in the S4 line of devices would probably pick this one up.

Do you like the S4 Zoom? Give your feedback on it in the comment section below. 


*Image courtesy Samsung Belgium