iOS 7 beta 4 reveals fingerprint scanner feature possible in next iPhone

Some folks digging around the developer version of iOS 7 beta 4 have uncovered a Biometric Kit which when paired with the fact that Apple purchased semiconductor-based Authentec last Summer for $356 million, then it is likely that Apple might include a fingerprint scanner for added security and access control in upcoming iOS devices.

Authentec makes fingerprint sensor chips used in personal computers and mobile devices. More than just access control, Authentec can add functionality to the home button of most iOS devices by making them more accurate cursors as well as access specific functions or apps upon verification.

Source: AppleInsider

Huawei Ascend Y300 destined for Bell Mobility and Virgin Mobile

Bell Mobility and Virgin Mobile now offer the cost-efficient  4G-enabled Huawei Ascend Y300 Android smartphone.

Huawei is one of the largest telecom solutions provider in the world, ranking  at no. 3 in smartphone shipments at the end of 2012.  This is the third device that Huawei has launched with a tier one Canadian carrier this year (last month, they launched devices with TELUS and Bell through Virgin).   

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SourceCode: Microsoft Office finally comes to Android smartphones

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Microsoft Office is the one of the first software programs users install on their PCs and Macs. Since smartphones are the closest thing to pocket computers, there have been countless substitutes for Word, Excel and PowerPoint available for Android and iOS devices but most don't come close to the original, or fail to integrate seamlessly with the desktop and cloud version of Microsoft's bread and butter suite.

Microsoft Office is now available on Android for free if you have an existing Office 365 account but it is only for smartphones and not for tablets where it would be far more useful.

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BlackBerry Q5 confirmed to be coming to Bell, Fido, Sasktel, TELUS and Virgin Mobile

After showing up on Kodoo's website, the BlackBerry Q5 will be availeble from TELUS, Bell, Fido, Sasktel and from Virgin Mobile as well (in Pure Red!). The midrange smartphone will feature a dual core 1.2GHz processor, vibrant touchscreen and 4G/LTE network support.

Andrew MacLeod, Managing Director for Canada at BlackBerry said, "Canada is our home, and bringing the BlackBerry Q5 smartphone here is a testament to our strong partner support and ongoing commitment to delivering innovative technologies that enable Canadian enterprises and consumers to improve how they connect and communicate." Good call, BlackBerry. Pricing is expected to be substantially lower than the Q10 and Z10 which are premium devices.