Updated: Latest mobile phones 2011: hottest handsets reviewed

In the ever-changing mobile market, it can be hard to keep pace with the latest mobile phones. That's why we've put together this hub for our latest mobile phone reviews: to give you the ideal jumping-on point for choosing the best handset for you out of the most current models around.

We cover a plethora of brands, including Apple, HTC, Nokia, Palm and Blackberry, and operating systems, such as Android, iOS and Windows Phone 7, so you should find something that piques your interest here.

In short, if you're seeking a new mobile phone, this is a great place to start.

HTC Wildfire S

The first Wildfire from HTC spread almost like its moniker, so popular did its blend of HTC Sense, durable form factor and affordable pricing prove. Now that it's burnt out, however, it needs a successor to carry the torch. Rising from the ashes is the Wildfire S.

The handset carries on the legacy well enough, with an impressively solid chassis, great social features and responsive touchscreen. The market's changed since the first Wildfire blazed its trail into history, though. With dual-core 'superphones' to contend with, it's hard to consider a 600Mhz processor hot stuff.

And while HTC's Sense interface proves as compelling as ever, the lack of grunt means missing out on Flash support for iPlayer and the like.

All that wouldn't matter if the Wildfire S only required liberating a token sum from your account, but you'll need a fair few sheets burning a hole in your pocket (around £220 SIM-free, or £15 a month) to lay claim to this little fella.

In the highly competitive market of 2011, that makes the Wildfire S a tricky proposition. Beginners will be well-served by the Wildfire S's rounded package, but you can certainly get a lot more for not much extra cash.

HTC Wildfire S review • HTC Wildfire S deals

Samsung Galaxy S2

It's rare that a direct sequel to something awesome – be it film, game or hardware – is anything other than a disappointment when it comes to a new phone.

Rarer still is when the second instalment surpasses the original. We can think of just a scant handful of cases off the top of our heads: The Empire Strikes Back, Terminator 2 and Left 4 Dead 2.

Well, add the Galaxy S2 to that list, because this phone is awesome.

Thin, light and with an amazingly clear 4.3-inch Super AMOLED plus screen behind its toughened Gorilla Glass front panel, this is one handset you won't be pocketing in shame when your mates pass by.

In fact, we suspect you'll be evangelising about it to anyone who'll listen. That's because the dual-core processor within its tiny shell isn't just a marketing bullet point, but rather powers an experience that we're nothing short of effervescent about. For instance, web browsing is blisteringly fast and the Galaxy S2's Flash support is second to none.

We're thrilled to say that the plus points are just too numerous to do justice of here. Check out the full review to find out why this is one of the best smartphones we're likely to see in 2011.

Samsung Galaxy S2 review • Samsung Galaxy S2 deals

HTC ChaCha

If you're aged 14-21 and are after a fun mobile rather than a black slab of raw processing power, we reckon you'll find it hard not to like (or +1, if you prefer) the new 'Facebook phone'.

As the nickname suggests, Mark Zuckerberg's blue-hued brand of social media is at the heart of the experience – HTC even going as far as to give the site its own dedicated button beneath the ChaCha's decent QWERTY keyboard.

Break through the wall of modified HTC Sense and you'll note that Android Gingerbread is powering the experience, which should be welcome for the tech-savvy target audience. Less warmly received will be the Flash integration, which is a bit iffy to say the least.

With a funny shape and small screen to boot, you're really going to have to want the ChaCha's style of social oh la la to buy into this. Still, if you do, then this is something to post home about.

HTC ChaCha review • HTC Cha Cha deals

HTC Sensation XE

This phone is so brand spanking new that it was announced just a day before we first held it in our palms. It adheres to the sensational HTC Sensation's template, but with the addition of ear-pleasing Beats Audio processing and a few spec upgrades.

You needn't be an audiophile to enjoy the new profile, but you will need a set of Beats Audio headphones.

Thankfully, a pair come with the device. In our tests so far, we've noticed a real difference, with the tinny edge of HTC's sound enhancer diminished, the crispness of sounds augmented and the only potential grounds for minor quibbles being the ear canal-shaking levels of bass.

The good news continues elsewhere, with a 1730mAh battery that should have more staying power than the original Sensation, a 1.5GHz dual-core processor to keep the experience smooth and an eye-pleasing design.

Treat your senses and check out the full review when it lands.

HTC Sensation XE review

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc

Could Sony Ericsson finally be about to deliver on the promise of, well, every smartphone it's ever made that wasn't quite good enough? Maybe it was stupid to hope, but we did anyway with this new mobile phone.

An attractive design with a curved back that's just 8.7mm thick in the middle? Check. Impressive new Exmor camera technology? Check. Good spec list, including HDMI output? Check. Superb video player? Check.

The hardware is extremely impressive, both in terms of looks and performance. Forget the fashionable dual-core phones – when done right, a single-core 1GHz processor can do it all, although busy, dynamic websites will cause the phone to chug a little.

As it is, we're prepared to overlook the Xperia Arc's few minor flaws (small buttons, odd text entry) thanks to its stunning good looks, superb screen and very decent photo performance. You can't help but love it once you've held its magically thin body and gazed adoringly into its dazzling Reality Display.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc review • Sony Xperia Arc deals

HTC Desire S

Though the HTC Desire's technology is now being surpassed, it's aged beautifully thanks to some timely price drops. However, all things must come to an end (or at least be supplanted by something new). The HTC Desire S has arrived to take over from its predecessor in the Android race.

In many ways, it's quite similar. We'll still be looking at a 3.7-inch 480 x 800 screen, Android overlaid with HTC's Sense UI and a 1GHz processor. However, HTC hasn't totally rested on its laurels with its new mobile phones.

The design and build of the handset is excellent, save for a slight Wi-Fi cutting-out issue. The camera is good quality, producing serviceable still and HD video that would be quite good if it weren't for a small stuttering issue.

Call quality was excellent, with voices coming through crisp and clear, and it's a shame how little we get to say that about handsets these days.

The browsing experience was generally strong, with the speed that web pages load still impressing us, and Flash is taking yet more steps forward in its 10.2 guise. It was still finicky at times, but when it did work, it was fairly smooth, which is more than we could say for many Flash 10.1 single-core phones.

However, the reason the Desire has kept up with everything that's come after is because it was so far ahead in the first place. The Desire S isn't. It's a great phone, and one we would wholeheartedly recommend in a vacuum.

The HTC Desire led the revolution, but the Desire S could be just another member of the rabble.

HTC Desire S review • HTC Desire S deals

BlackBerry Bold 9900

While RIM has a great reputation for push email and corporate handsets, it's not known for being an innovator. For this reason, the Blackberry Bold 9900 is an intriguing proposition, packing some higher-end tech into a rather attractive shell.

The capacitive (and high resolution) touchscreen screen is a particular marvel, but the inclusion of a near-field communications chip and the brand new OS 7 show that the Bold 9900 was made to break new ground for RIM.

The result is impressive, but only if you're happy to operate within the boundaries of BlackBerry's traditional strengths. Those looking for an outstanding web browsing or media experience will still find themselves disappointed. Still, head over to the review to find out more about what our review dubbed the best BlackBerry to date.

BlackBerry Bold 9900 review • BlackBerry Bold 9900 deals

HTC Sensation

The HTC Sensation is meant to be the new alpha smartphone from the Taiwanese firm, and it certainly lives up to expectations.

With a 1.2GHz dual core processor from Qualcomm and a whopping 4.3-inch high-res qHD screen, this is the phone with best specs yet from HTC, plus it's the first smartphone with the new HTC Watch movie download service.

Is it better than the Samsung Galaxy S2? We think it's just a shade behind thanks to a slightly larger chassis and less advanced screen technology, but that's going to be a debate that rumbles on and on.

HTC Sensation review • HTC Sensation deals

HTC Incredible S

Incredible by name and only slightly less so by nature, this phone is HTC's entry into the underpopulated 4-inch touchscreen arena. In fact, it's among the first UK handsets to fill that niche, but more are on the horizon.

It's blessed with HTC's slick Sense UI and a high-quality screen, but is this latest mobile phone's foibles enough to warrant waiting for its incoming competitors, or the HTC Desire S?

HTC Incredible S review • HTC Incredible S prices

Samsung Galaxy Ace

With a middle-of-the-range spec, 800MHz processor and iPhone-aping looks, it may be hard to see why it's worth buying into the new Galaxy Ace. However, its Android 2.2 (Froyo) OS makes a considerable difference and is, in fact, this phone's ace (yes! We said it) in the hole.

It won't cost you the Earth either, so look deeper and you may find just what you were looking for.

Samsung Galaxy Ace review • Samsung Galaxy Ace prices

BlackBerry Torch 9810

This update of the Torch 9800, the first touchscreen-equipped BlackBerry, is mighty similar to its predecessor at first glance. But fire up the 3.2-inch touchscreen and you'll start to notice the difference, with a VGA 640 x 480 resolution making the whole experience far crisper.

The processor is fast, the battery life is good, and contacts and messaging are fantastic, but we do have a few gripes. This, folks, is an incremental upgrade and one that struggles to find its niche in BlackBerry's pantheon.

There are RIM handsets that are more focused on the demographics that this phone lightly touches, and those who already own a Torch 9800 may well be still locked into a contract, so there'll be little chance to upgrade.

It's by no means a bad handset, though, so it's well worth a look alongside phones such as the Bold 9900 or Curve as a point of comparison.

BlackBerry Torch 9810 review • BlackBerry Torch 9810 deals

LG Optimus 3D

It's big, it's weighty and it's pretty darn expensive, but that pair of characters tacked on the end of the LG Optimus 3D's name might justify all that and more for you. For this, ladies and gents, is a technological milestone: the first 'glasses-free' 3D phone.

The good news is that the effect works brilliantly and that all-important screen is complemented by some great Android customisations on the software side.

Web performance is stellar too.The bad news is that even for a dual-core, the Optimus 3D can feel sluggish, the battery life is poor and – oddly for a phone sold on the back of cutting-edge tech – it's 'only' running Android 2.2.

If you're undecided about joining the 3D revolution, then head on over to the review to find out more.

LG Optimus 3D review • LG Optimus 3D deals

Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini

Mini by name and by nature, this is a refresh of the concept behind Sony Ericsson's X10 Mini and X10 Mini Pro, the pint-sized and ultraportable handsets launched in mid-2010.

It packs a new 1GHz processor, and a bigger 3-inch screen with the Bravia Engine Reality Display tech used in the Xperia Arc (read: you get a 320x480 resolution touchscreen that's a bit brighter at times).

The user interface has received an overhaul too, so on paper the new Xperia Mini looks like a big leap forward for the tiny form factor.

And so it proves to be, offering a very usable – dare we say, pretty – interface that makes the small screen totally workable. Social media integration is great too.

The story's not perfect, though, with less-than-brilliant video codec support and a weak camera offering. The titchy screen won't suit gamers either, but those after a great little phone that won't keep their hands full with glitches and faffing about could be in for a treat.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini review • Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini deals

]]>

Updated: Latest mobile phones 2011: hottest handsets reviewed

In the ever-changing mobile market, it can be hard to keep pace with the latest mobile phones. That's why we've put together this hub for our latest mobile phone reviews: to give you the ideal jumping-on point for choosing the best handset for you out of the most current models around.

We cover a plethora of brands, including Apple, HTC, Nokia, Palm and Blackberry, and operating systems, such as Android, iOS and Windows Phone 7, so you should find something that piques your interest here.

In short, if you're seeking a new mobile phone, this is a great place to start.

HTC Wildfire S

The first Wildfire from HTC spread almost like its moniker, so popular did its blend of HTC Sense, durable form factor and affordable pricing prove. Now that it's burnt out, however, it needs a successor to carry the torch. Rising from the ashes is the Wildfire S.

The handset carries on the legacy well enough, with an impressively solid chassis, great social features and responsive touchscreen. The market's changed since the first Wildfire blazed its trail into history, though. With dual-core 'superphones' to contend with, it's hard to consider a 600Mhz processor hot stuff.

And while HTC's Sense interface proves as compelling as ever, the lack of grunt means missing out on Flash support for iPlayer and the like.

All that wouldn't matter if the Wildfire S only required liberating a token sum from your account, but you'll need a fair few sheets burning a hole in your pocket (around £220 SIM-free, or £15 a month) to lay claim to this little fella.

In the highly competitive market of 2011, that makes the Wildfire S a tricky proposition. Beginners will be well-served by the Wildfire S's rounded package, but you can certainly get a lot more for not much extra cash.

HTC Wildfire S review • HTC Wildfire S deals

Samsung Galaxy S2

It's rare that a direct sequel to something awesome – be it film, game or hardware – is anything other than a disappointment when it comes to a new phone.

Rarer still is when the second instalment surpasses the original. We can think of just a scant handful of cases off the top of our heads: The Empire Strikes Back, Terminator 2 and Left 4 Dead 2.

Well, add the Galaxy S2 to that list, because this phone is awesome.

Thin, light and with an amazingly clear 4.3-inch Super AMOLED plus screen behind its toughened Gorilla Glass front panel, this is one handset you won't be pocketing in shame when your mates pass by.

In fact, we suspect you'll be evangelising about it to anyone who'll listen. That's because the dual-core processor within its tiny shell isn't just a marketing bullet point, but rather powers an experience that we're nothing short of effervescent about. For instance, web browsing is blisteringly fast and the Galaxy S2's Flash support is second to none.

We're thrilled to say that the plus points are just too numerous to do justice of here. Check out the full review to find out why this is one of the best smartphones we're likely to see in 2011.

Samsung Galaxy S2 review • Samsung Galaxy S2 deals

HTC ChaCha

If you're aged 14-21 and are after a fun mobile rather than a black slab of raw processing power, we reckon you'll find it hard not to like (or +1, if you prefer) the new 'Facebook phone'.

As the nickname suggests, Mark Zuckerberg's blue-hued brand of social media is at the heart of the experience – HTC even going as far as to give the site its own dedicated button beneath the ChaCha's decent QWERTY keyboard.

Break through the wall of modified HTC Sense and you'll note that Android Gingerbread is powering the experience, which should be welcome for the tech-savvy target audience. Less warmly received will be the Flash integration, which is a bit iffy to say the least.

With a funny shape and small screen to boot, you're really going to have to want the ChaCha's style of social oh la la to buy into this. Still, if you do, then this is something to post home about.

HTC ChaCha review • HTC Cha Cha deals

HTC Sensation XE

This phone is so brand spanking new that it was announced just a day before we first held it in our palms. It adheres to the sensational HTC Sensation's template, but with the addition of ear-pleasing Beats Audio processing and a few spec upgrades.

You needn't be an audiophile to enjoy the new profile, but you will need a set of Beats Audio headphones.

Thankfully, a pair come with the device. In our tests so far, we've noticed a real difference, with the tinny edge of HTC's sound enhancer diminished, the crispness of sounds augmented and the only potential grounds for minor quibbles being the ear canal-shaking levels of bass.

The good news continues elsewhere, with a 1730mAh battery that should have more staying power than the original Sensation, a 1.5GHz dual-core processor to keep the experience smooth and an eye-pleasing design.

Treat your senses and check out the full review when it lands.

HTC Sensation XE review

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc

Could Sony Ericsson finally be about to deliver on the promise of, well, every smartphone it's ever made that wasn't quite good enough? Maybe it was stupid to hope, but we did anyway with this new mobile phone.

An attractive design with a curved back that's just 8.7mm thick in the middle? Check. Impressive new Exmor camera technology? Check. Good spec list, including HDMI output? Check. Superb video player? Check.

The hardware is extremely impressive, both in terms of looks and performance. Forget the fashionable dual-core phones – when done right, a single-core 1GHz processor can do it all, although busy, dynamic websites will cause the phone to chug a little.

As it is, we're prepared to overlook the Xperia Arc's few minor flaws (small buttons, odd text entry) thanks to its stunning good looks, superb screen and very decent photo performance. You can't help but love it once you've held its magically thin body and gazed adoringly into its dazzling Reality Display.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc review • Sony Xperia Arc deals

HTC Desire S

Though the HTC Desire's technology is now being surpassed, it's aged beautifully thanks to some timely price drops. However, all things must come to an end (or at least be supplanted by something new). The HTC Desire S has arrived to take over from its predecessor in the Android race.

In many ways, it's quite similar. We'll still be looking at a 3.7-inch 480 x 800 screen, Android overlaid with HTC's Sense UI and a 1GHz processor. However, HTC hasn't totally rested on its laurels with its new mobile phones.

The design and build of the handset is excellent, save for a slight Wi-Fi cutting-out issue. The camera is good quality, producing serviceable still and HD video that would be quite good if it weren't for a small stuttering issue.

Call quality was excellent, with voices coming through crisp and clear, and it's a shame how little we get to say that about handsets these days.

The browsing experience was generally strong, with the speed that web pages load still impressing us, and Flash is taking yet more steps forward in its 10.2 guise. It was still finicky at times, but when it did work, it was fairly smooth, which is more than we could say for many Flash 10.1 single-core phones.

However, the reason the Desire has kept up with everything that's come after is because it was so far ahead in the first place. The Desire S isn't. It's a great phone, and one we would wholeheartedly recommend in a vacuum.

The HTC Desire led the revolution, but the Desire S could be just another member of the rabble.

HTC Desire S review • HTC Desire S deals

BlackBerry Bold 9900

While RIM has a great reputation for push email and corporate handsets, it's not known for being an innovator. For this reason, the Blackberry Bold 9900 is an intriguing proposition, packing some higher-end tech into a rather attractive shell.

The capacitive (and high resolution) touchscreen screen is a particular marvel, but the inclusion of a near-field communications chip and the brand new OS 7 show that the Bold 9900 was made to break new ground for RIM.

The result is impressive, but only if you're happy to operate within the boundaries of BlackBerry's traditional strengths. Those looking for an outstanding web browsing or media experience will still find themselves disappointed. Still, head over to the review to find out more about what our review dubbed the best BlackBerry to date.

BlackBerry Bold 9900 review • BlackBerry Bold 9900 deals

HTC Sensation

The HTC Sensation is meant to be the new alpha smartphone from the Taiwanese firm, and it certainly lives up to expectations.

With a 1.2GHz dual core processor from Qualcomm and a whopping 4.3-inch high-res qHD screen, this is the phone with best specs yet from HTC, plus it's the first smartphone with the new HTC Watch movie download service.

Is it better than the Samsung Galaxy S2? We think it's just a shade behind thanks to a slightly larger chassis and less advanced screen technology, but that's going to be a debate that rumbles on and on.

HTC Sensation review • HTC Sensation deals

HTC Incredible S

Incredible by name and only slightly less so by nature, this phone is HTC's entry into the underpopulated 4-inch touchscreen arena. In fact, it's among the first UK handsets to fill that niche, but more are on the horizon.

It's blessed with HTC's slick Sense UI and a high-quality screen, but is this latest mobile phone's foibles enough to warrant waiting for its incoming competitors, or the HTC Desire S?

HTC Incredible S review • HTC Incredible S prices

Samsung Galaxy Ace

With a middle-of-the-range spec, 800MHz processor and iPhone-aping looks, it may be hard to see why it's worth buying into the new Galaxy Ace. However, its Android 2.2 (Froyo) OS makes a considerable difference and is, in fact, this phone's ace (yes! We said it) in the hole.

It won't cost you the Earth either, so look deeper and you may find just what you were looking for.

Samsung Galaxy Ace review • Samsung Galaxy Ace prices

BlackBerry Torch 9810

This update of the Torch 9800, the first touchscreen-equipped BlackBerry, is mighty similar to its predecessor at first glance. But fire up the 3.2-inch touchscreen and you'll start to notice the difference, with a VGA 640 x 480 resolution making the whole experience far crisper.

The processor is fast, the battery life is good, and contacts and messaging are fantastic, but we do have a few gripes. This, folks, is an incremental upgrade and one that struggles to find its niche in BlackBerry's pantheon.

There are RIM handsets that are more focused on the demographics that this phone lightly touches, and those who already own a Torch 9800 may well be still locked into a contract, so there'll be little chance to upgrade.

It's by no means a bad handset, though, so it's well worth a look alongside phones such as the Bold 9900 or Curve as a point of comparison.

BlackBerry Torch 9810 review • BlackBerry Torch 9810 deals

LG Optimus 3D

It's big, it's weighty and it's pretty darn expensive, but that pair of characters tacked on the end of the LG Optimus 3D's name might justify all that and more for you. For this, ladies and gents, is a technological milestone: the first 'glasses-free' 3D phone.

The good news is that the effect works brilliantly and that all-important screen is complemented by some great Android customisations on the software side.

Web performance is stellar too.The bad news is that even for a dual-core, the Optimus 3D can feel sluggish, the battery life is poor and – oddly for a phone sold on the back of cutting-edge tech – it's 'only' running Android 2.2.

If you're undecided about joining the 3D revolution, then head on over to the review to find out more.

LG Optimus 3D review • LG Optimus 3D deals

Samsung Galaxy Mini

Mini by name and by nature, this is a refresh of the concept behind Sony Ericsson's X10 Mini and X10 Mini Pro, the pint-sized and ultraportable handsets launched in mid-2010.

It packs a new 1GHz processor, and a bigger 3-inch screen with the Bravia Engine Reality Display tech used in the Xperia Arc (read: you get a 320x480 resolution touchscreen that's a bit brighter at times).

The user interface has received an overhaul too, so on paper the new Xperia Mini looks like a big leap forward for the tiny form factor.

And so it proves to be, offering a very usable – dare we say, pretty – interface that makes the small screen totally workable. Social media integration is great too.

The story's not perfect, though, with less-than-brilliant video codec support and a weak camera offering. The titchy screen won't suit gamers either, but those after a great little phone that won't keep their hands full with glitches and faffing about could be in for a treat.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini review • Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini deals

]]>

Updated: IFA 2011: all the latest announcements

IFA 2011: all the latest news

IFA, the world's largest consumer electronics and home appliance show, opened its doors for the 51st time on 1 September 2011.

For five hectic days, this annual extravaganza of all things electronic will redefine the consumer electronics landscape for the next 12 months.

IFA 2011 is not just another gadget show. It's a technology event on an enormous scale. Last year, the Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin attracted over 230,000 visitors. And yes, it is open to the public.

TechRadar is out at IFA in force - check out our IFA day one highlights video below.

brightcove : 1138329410001

Here's what's been announced at IFA 2011 so far:

Sony

Sony has officially named its two Android tablets - what was once known as the S1 will now be called the Sony Tablet S, while the Sony S2 is now the Sony Tablet P. We will be seeing both slates hit in Wi-Fi form from the end of September 2011 and while UK prices weren't confirmed, Sony said that the Tablet S will go on sale from $479 and the Tablet P from $599.

Dixons then followed up by opening Tablet S pre-orders and in the process announcing its Sony Tablet S UK price. The official Sony Tablet S UK price starts at £399.99 for the 16GB Wi-Fi only model. You can pre-order the 16GB Wi-Fi and 3G version for £499.99, or go for a bit more storage with the Wi-Fi only 32GB model for £499.99.

• Hands on: Sony Tablet S review
• Hands on: Sony Tablet P review
• Video: Sony Tablet S hands on
• Video: Sony Tablet P hands on

Sony also unveiled a 6-inch eReader - the Sony Reader Wi-Fi PRS-T1 - which weighs just 168 grams and is 8.9mm thick. The PRS-T1 features a one month battery life, is available in black, white and red and will allow borrowing from local libraries.

• Hands On: Sony Reader Wi-Fi PRS-T1 review

In the PC arena, Sony showed off its VAIO L 3D - or Vaio VPCL21S1E/B to give its full name - an all-in-one desktop with a 24-inch Full HD Vaio LED backlight display, and to its notebook collection, it's added a 15.5" model to its VAIO S Series. The 15.5-inch screen is Full HD affair, with an optional 'glasses-free 3D' panel so you can watch 3D Blu-rays simply by popping it over the screen.

• Hands on: Sony VAIO S review
• Hands on: Sony VAIO L 3D review

For a more portable and ridiculous-looking 3D experience, Sony has made the Sony HMZ-T1 official. First shown at CES, this wearable personal 3D viewer streams content from your Blu-ray player or PS3, among other devices, STRAIGHT INTO YOUR EYES.

Also unveiled at IFA by Sony was the SMP-N200 Network Media Player, allowing people to turn any television into a connected TV.

Sony refreshed its arc line-up at IFA 2011, with the company announcing the Sony Xperia Arc S.

• Hands on: Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S review

Also from Sony:

• Sony adds new top-flight 3D projector
• Sony at IFA 2011: let the tablet wars begin
• Sony unveils affordable BDP-S185 Blu-ray player

Our video of the key Sony products from our team at IFA in Berlin is below:

brightcove : 1138084158001

Samsung

Samsung treated us to three new cameras at this year's IFA. The 18x superzoom WB750 compact brings a BSI (Back Side Illuminated) CMOS sensor and, for the first time in a compact, Samsung's own DSP 3 key component. Next up was the MV800 'Multiview' camera, billed as the world's first compact to feature a flip-up screen to make it easier to shoot from unusual angles.

Completing the trio is the NX200 compact system camera, featuring a 20.3 megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor, 100 millisecond advanced autofocus and HD video recording.

Also from Samsung comes the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7, which was outed ahead of the press launch. The tablet features a 7.7" super AMOLED screen, 5100mAh battery, and is running Android 3.2 with Samsung's TouchWiz overlay on top. The tablet will come in 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB versions, and features a 2MP camera on the front and a 3MP snapper on the back. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 was officially unveiled shortly after.

• Hands on: Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 review
• Video: Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 hands on

Samsung also unveiled its 1.4GHz dual-core processor-packing, 5.3-inch screened Samsung Galaxy Note. That processor makes the Galaxy Note the world's most powerful smartphone - and the display specs completely blow the iPhone 4 away.

More on the Galaxy Note:

• Hands on: Samsung Galaxy Note review
• Samsung Galaxy Note: what you need to know
• Samsung Galaxy Note vs iPhone 4: which is best?
• Hands on video: Samsung Galaxy Note

brightcove : 1138414830001

Samsung revealed its aluminium styled Series 7 Chronos laptop range ahead of the show opening. The Chronos 700Z5A is powered by the Intel Core i7 quad core processor and comes with a 15.6-inch screen, while the slightly lower-spec Chronos 700Z4A has a 15-inch screen and an Intel Huron River Core i5 2467M processor.

• Hands on: Samsung Series 7 Chronos review

Samsung has also announced the PC Series-7 tablet, which can be docked to use as a Windows 7-running desktop PC, complete with Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. Windows 7 tablets haven't exactly set the world on fire, but we'd love to see this running Windows 8.

• Hands on: Samsung Series 7 Slate PC review

Also from Samsung:

• Samsung Smart TVs to get YouTube 3D content
• Samsung Galaxy Wi-Fi 3.6 is a smartphone without the phone
• Samsung CEO: We don't want webOS
• Video: Samsung at IFA 2011
• Hands on: Samsung Wave 3 review

Philips

Philips has been busy developing a host of new Full HD 3D TVs with integrated internet, LED display panels and the ability to convert 2D to 3D. So the 9000, 8000 and 7000 TV ranges have all seen an update.

• Hands on: Philips 46PFL9706H review

IFA also saw Philips announce a new range of Cinema 21:9 TVs (dubbed Platinum and Gold) to bring smarter and smoother 3D plus the next generation of internet TV.

Also from Philips:

• Philips launches worlds' fastest TVs
• Philips launches Fidelio docks for Android

LG

LG announced its new LW980T flagship TV range, combining 'the latest in 3D technology and SmartTV'. The new range, which will be available in 47- and 55-inch screen sizes, uses LG's Nano Full LED backlighting for a brighter, clearer picture. At the same time LG also announced its new HX906TX 3D surround sound system, featuring Dolby-certified 360 audio.

Plasma TVs are on LG's IFA launch list, too, with the PenTouch range of plasma TVs which allow people to draw and sketch straight onto the screen. We thought this was so you could draw moustaches on BBC news readers, but it turns out that using a connection to a PC you can draw and sketch and organise photos using the dedicated pen.

LG has also teamed up with Philips and Sharp on Smart TV apps. The three firms aim to create a standard for connected TV apps by collaborating on a common approach - and they've invited others to join.

HTC

HTC graced us with a couple of new Windows Phones: The HTC Titan, and our favourite name for a phone ever, the HTC Radar. HTC Titan brings 4.7-inches of Mango while the HTC Radar was given its official debut, with a release date set for October.

• Hands on: HTC Radar review
• Hands on: HTC Titan review

Toshiba

Toshiba has revealed that its AT200 tablet (aka the Toshiba Excite) will be just 7.7mm thick when it lands with Honeycomb 3.2. Spec-wise, it carries a 1.2GHz processor with 1GB of RAM to boot. Its high resolution display is a 10.1-incher, with resolution coming in at 1280x800 - the same as the Samsung Galaxy Note we saw earlier.

Toshiba has also bolstered its 3D TV line-up with the launch of the TL Series, which it says brings "exceptional value" Full HD 3D sets. We don't know how exceptional said value is as Tosh hasn't announced a price or release date yet. You'll need to factor in the cost of the active shutter glasses, though, as these are sold separately.

Or how about the UK's first glasses-free 3D TV? If you can step away from the 'exceptional value' end of the TV store, then you might be interested in the Toshiba 55ZL2. The high-end 55-inch ZL2 offers up face tracking, Resolution+, Auto-calibration, 2D to 3D conversion and smart TV features. The 3D is provided by lenticular lenslets, which can apparently offer up nine different viewing positions.

• Hands on: Toshiba 55ZL2 review

Also from Toshiba:

• Toshiba announces affordable Blu-ray players BDX2250 and BDX1250
• Video: Toshiba at IFA 2011
• Hands on: Toshiba AT200 review
• Hands on: Toshiba Portege Z830 review

Lenovo

Lenovo has delivered one of the first Intel Ultrabook implementations. The Lenovo IdeaPad U300s runs various implementations of Intel's ULV (Ultra Low Voltage) variants of its Core i series processors and features SSD drives. A UK release date is, as yet, unknown but we don't think it'll be too long before you see it on UK streets.

• Hands on: Lenovo IdeaPad U300 S review

Dell

"Thin and powerful" notebooks are all the rage what with Intel's hope that we'll start calling them 'ultrabooks' and stop buying MacBook Airs; and the Inspiron 14z is Dell's latest solution.

Netgear

Netgear announced three new products designed to help you stream your entertainment around the home. The networking company revealed a smaller powerline networking set, the Powerline Nano Dual-port Set; the Universal Dual Band Wireless Internet Adapter for TV and Blu-Ray; and the Universal Push2TV Wireless PC to TV Adapter, which broadcasts content from a Windows PC screen to HDMI-compatible TV.

Creative

Creative unveiled its new Sound Blaster gaming headsets, including the Tactic360 Sigma, Tactic360 ION, Tactic3D Wrath and Tactic3D Omega.

Our original IFA predictions piece

Below is our original IFA predictions piece. Read on to see if we were correct...

The IFA site is so huge it has its own transport system to help get folks around. With more attendees and exhibition space than CES, it can legitimately claim to be the world's biggest tech expo.

Amazingly, the show first opened its doors way back in 1924. Since then it's seen numerous tech milestones.

In 1930 Albert Einstein gave a keynote speech about the future of radio; five years later the event introduced the first magnetic recording tape. In 1967 PAL colour televisions made their debut, and then in 1981 CD players were unveiled before a curious public. It was at IFA, in 1995, that European broadcasters began to demonstrate digital TV for the first time.

Naturally, the big brands are keeping product announcements and developments close to their chests, as they prepare for the big IFA reveal on 1 September. Until then rumour and speculation is the name of the game. That said, it's not too difficult to predict the direction that tech winds will be blowing.

The big buzzwords bouncing around the halls of IFA 2011 will be (in no particular order) 4K2K, Smart TV, autostereocopic 3D and, of course, tablets. Feel free to combine any and all of these to produce your imaginary device of choice.

Those who have been hoping that the 3D bandwagon would at least develop a slow puncture (yes, amazingly there are a few naysayers still out there) are likely to be disappointed. The big 3D TV makers will all be hawking better-than-ever third generation displays.

One highlight you can expect to see in the Panasonic hall is the brand's astonishing new 152inch 3D plasma. We've already had a preview of this monster and can confirm it is quite simply the most jaw-dropping flat-panel on the planet.

Panasonic has long enjoyed producing impractically large plasmas (just because it can), and this is its most ambitious screen yet. The 4K Active Shutter panel has a resolution of 8 million pixels; at a recent demo we watched in slack-jawed amazement as it upscaled Avatar from a standard Panasonic 3D Blu-ray player.

2011 has already been deemed the year of the smart TV by the likes of Samsung and LG, and this message is only likely to be reinforced at IFA 2011. While Ethernet is now de rigueur on all types of CE gear, Wi-Fi has been an awkward add-on. However, come IFA, the dongle will go the way of the Dodo, as building-in becomes the new going out.

The evolution of the tablet

Naturally, tablets will be everywhere at IFA 2011, with dozens of cookie-cutter slates on hand. What will be new, however, is how they'll be positioned. Many of these handhelds will be promoted as your next second TV screen.

TABLET FRENZY: A new wave of tablet devices will launch, aimed at enhancing the TV viewing experience

Samsung used IFA 2010 to launch its original Samsung Galaxy Tab and it looks like the company will be using this year's show to launch a follow-up device - the Samsung Galaxy Q. The rumour is that it's a "tabphone" that's half tablet, half phone. Read more about the Samsung Galaxy Q here.

Samsung has also shown off a couple of tablet teaser videos, too.

We'll also see a new Intel Ultrabook from Acer (basically a MacBook Air-style machine), as well as potentially Samsung - the Korean giant usually brings out a bunch of laptops at IFA and this year looks to be no exception - as usual there's a whole press conference specifically for their computing kit.

We're also expecting tablets and computing devices from numerous other vendors including Lenovo and Toshiba.

Sony will also be unveiling its S1 and S2 tablets too. The S1 could be known as the Sony Tablet S. It would also be nice if HTC would show us its HTC Puccini tablet, too.

We know that Panasonic's first tablets will allow you to access its Viera Connect IPTV and apps store directly, as well as act as a turbo-charged remote control for a tethered screen.

What about phones?

IFA isn't traditionally a phone show, but Samsung has launched phones before at the show, while it looks like the show conveniently falls into place for Windows Phone Mango.

Mango will be released on 1 September, and it's very likely that HTC, Samsung and others are looking to IFA 2011 to unveil their hardware.

Samsung has already pre-empted the show with the Samsung Galaxy M Pro, Samsung Galaxy Y and Samsung Galaxy Y Pro.

Back to the future

IFA has a habit of repeating itself. So expect those uber-cool products unveiled at IFA 2010, but still conspicuous by their absence in the real world, to return refreshed. We'll bet dollars to doughnuts that you'll witness the second coming of LG's fabled Nano-LED TVs, only this time with Cinema 3D passive tech replacing the Active Shutter 3D system they were originally shown with.

BACK AGAIN: First shown last year, but still not on sale, LG's Nano LED screens will get a Passive 3D makeover at IFA

Of course, LG will still be shilling gear unlikely to ship anytime soon. We predict the highlight of the LG hall will be its first large screen 4K2K 3D display. This will use the brand's proprietary FPR (Film Pattern Retarder) filter and, thanks to the higher resolution of the 4K panel, will be able to produce the first ever Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080) Passive 3D picture.

LG has also indicated that it a major part of its IFA 2011 thinking is around how it can push its plasma televisions in 'new and exciting directions'.

"Through our on-going commitment to plasma, we've come up with technology that's raised plasma picture quality to new heights, and helped rejuvenate the overall plasma TV market," said Heui-seob Kim, vice president and head of the PDP TV business at LG Electronics.

"At IFA 2011, we'll be taking the chance to show European consumers the true potential of plasma, and how we're setting the pace with innovations that deliver real improvements in how viewers can watch and interact with their TVs."

Bizarrely LG has also revealed a mouse and scanner combination device which will debut at the show.

LG's rival Samsung does not traditionally use IFA to launch swathes of new AV kit, reserving that privilege for January's CES event (and using the show to launch a lot of computing kit instead). However, the company does like to steal a headline or two. One way it could do this is by taking the wraps off its own radical new 3D TV technology.

The brand is known to have done a deal with 3D pioneer Real D to create a new generation of displays which deliver Full HD 3D using passive polarising glasses. No specifics have been announced, but by shifting shuttering LCD tech to the panel and away from high-tech eyeware, the brand will free itself from the expensive handcuffs that are Active Shutter spectacles.

Sony, Samsung and Panasonic have also shown that they are not backing down on making active shutter by announcing a new standard initiative with Xpand. Expect more details on this at the show, even though 2012 is more likely for launch.

Over in Toshiba's hall, there's certain to be a massive push on autostereoscopic (no glasses needed) 3D. We predict Toshiba will show a groundbreaking 55inch Auto-3D screen. The company has already touted prototypes and seems firmly committed to making autostereocopic TV happen. Of course, you won't be able to buy one until at least 2012.

Meanwhile, Hanspreee has announced it will be bringing a new generation of its apple-styled TV to the show.

More Smart TVs

IFA 2011 won't just be about hardware, though. Reflecting the rise of Smart devices, there will be a new emphasis on apps and content.

Samsung UK's AV marketing chief Russell Owens says that IFA 2011 will be about more than just kit. "You can be certain apps and services will be a big story at this year's event," he told us.

Sony spokesperson Lucie Speciale agrees, saying that for Sony IFA 2011 will be about "discovering new services and most importantly experiencing digital content in ways that haven't been seen before." She adds "key themes will be connectivity, mobility, entertainment and the next stages of 3D."

We can't wait.

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IFA 2011: Video: Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 hands on

Samsung had a host of goodies to show off at IFA 2011, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 came lauded as the first tablet to offer a Super AMOLED Plus screen.

Weighing in at almost half the weight of an iPad 2, the 7.7-inch screen sits in an insanely thin chassis which has to be seen to be believed.

So we recommend that you drop everything and turn your peepers to our hands on Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 video review to see the slinky slate in action at once:

brightcove : 1140769167001

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IFA 2011: Hands on: Asus EeePad Slider review

The much anticipated ASUS EeePad Slider emerged at IFA 2011, and we were lucky enough to grab a hands-on with this mythical portable at the Nvidia stand at the show.

You can't look at this tablet without getting down to its raison d'etre, and that's the built in keyboard which is revealed by sliding back the screen.

It's smaller than we'd have hoped, and more cramped than the Asus Transformer, which is its main competitor. If you have fat fingers then you'll need to find a different tablet to write your memoirs, but even chunky-digited folk will still be able to write an email comfortably.

The keys were basic and plasticky, but this is a pay-off for keeping the immensely thin design. We were expecting the presence of a keyboard to make this a chunky tablet, but it's no thicker than most of its 10.1-inch competitors, and remains supremely light.

Inside is an Nvidia Tegra 2 1GHz chip, with 32GB of storage. We found the system to be extremely responsive, and loved the vibrant screen.

One thing we noticed is that the mechanism which slides the screen and keyboard wasn't as smooth as we hoped, and there was a slight grating which didn't leave us with the best impression. It's likely that this was a pre-production sample - and no doubt abused by enthusiastic IFA-goers - so we'll stay optimistic that the final release will sort this issue.

A browse of the built-in apps revealed Polaris Office 3.0, which is also shared with the EeePadTransformer. This is great for anyone wanting to work on the move, and proves that the EeePadSlider can stand out from the rest of the competition, in what is becoming a market crowded with similar, unspectacular tablets.

We were pleasantly surprised by the EeePad Slider. The added keyboard doesn't make this a bulky Android tablet, but something that gives you all the benefits of Honeycomb, with the option to get down to business when you need it. Those who really want to type will still be better served by the more spacious Transformer, but this fills a niche that we're sure will be appreciated.

There's still no word on the EeePad Slider UK release date or pricing, but watch this space for more information.

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