BlackBerry to end smartphone production, will move to services-only model

The last true BlackBerry: The BlackBerry Classic was the last handset to feature RIM's core smartphone features

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

The writing has been on the wall for some time on this one, BlackBerry (formerly Research In Motion) has announced that it is exiting the hardware business and will no longer make any more handsets. Instead, it will rely on partners for hardware as well as focus on a services-only model moving forward.

"The company plans to end all internal hardware development and will outsource that function to partners," said CEO John Chen in a statement about the tactical shift for the company. "Our financial foundation is strong, and our pivot to software is taking hold."

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Alcatel Idol 4's enticing features

In the highly competitive smartphone market how does one stand out from the rest? Alcatel introduces the Idol 4 this week and a few features are turning heads. This new model was featured last night at a Canadian launch event along side the brand's latest tablet, Pop 4.

The Idol 4's most noticeable new feature is the "Boom" button that offers the ability to boost up a function of choice. Located on the side of the device this gives users the flexibility to either enhance photos or music at a touch of the button. Want more bass or want more voice clarity on a phone call? This apparently will quickly offer that without having to fiddle around.

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Razer outs its most advanced gaming mouse yet

Razer improves on its gaming mouse further with the launch of the new DeathAdder Elite gaming mouse. Building on the design and ergonomics of the DeathAdder, the DeathAdder Elite packs in what Razer says is the best optical sensor. This new mouse has the Razer 5G Optical Sensor capable of tracking up to 16,000 dots per inch at 450 inches per second. It promises the highest measured resolution accuracy at 99.4 percent.

The DeathAdder Elite is also the first Razer mouse to come with Mechanical Mouse Switches, which the company co-designed and produced with mouse switch supplier Omron. These new switches allow for faster response times and better durability at 50 million clicks. There is an improved tactile scroll wheel, DPI buttons, and customizable lighting features. The DeathAdder Elite retails for US$69.99 (around CA$90) and is available for pre-order. International release is expected next month.

Google on iOS hides your incognito searches behind Touch ID

Google is adding a bit more security or assurance for its iOS users with the latest update for its app. If you are doing private searches within the Google app, Google can lock these searches behind Touch ID, which means if someone else uses your iPhone or iPad, they won’t be able to snoop over what you’ve been searching. For convenience, Google will not close these private searches when you leave the app. You will have to do that yourself. A friendly reminder, though. Going incognito doesn’t mean you’re completely private. It “doesn’t hide your browsing from your employer, your internet service provider, or the websites you visit.” The Google app won’t hide your searches from Google, either, but it won’t tie them to your account. One other feature added to the Google app on iOS is allowing you to watch YouTube videos directly in the app.