3G iPhone

Only half an hour ago, at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), a Keynote address by Apple computers announced the release of a 3G-version of the popular and stylish iPhone. This new iPhone would be redesigned with a new case, included GPS technology for tracking and location, as well as the blazing fast 3G wireless network. Steve Jobs stated that the phone would be "rolling out to various countries over the next several months". This is a monumental play for Apple Computers, releasing this information at just under the 1-year anniversary of the original iPhone's debut. The phone has been extremely popular since its release last June.

Included in the Keynote address was information about new applications and developments to iPhone 2.0 software, which would greatly broaden its already versitile framework. The new software will help increase workflow and productivity, as well as seamlessly work with the computer in which it is synced to keep everything the most up-to-date as possible. The newly developed software will release shortly, and will even be compatible with the iPod Touch, the newest iPod available.

Included are some photos from the Keynote address, including a comparison to other phones, battery statistics, as well as some photos of the new phone. Enjoy!P.s. I'm buying one as soon as they are available!

EDIT: 32 Days is the official release date, July 11th here we come, and at a price tag of $199 for the 8GB and $299 for the 16GB and GET THIS: A white iPhone, things just keep getting better. Thanks for being such an amazing contributor to the world, Steve Jobs!!!

EDIT (3:30 PM): Here is the link to the new ad on Apple.com, enjoy it!!!!
Click here

Coldplay - Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends

Yet again All Around Critic comes through early to give you the best head's up on what is about to be hot. Sorry about the long hiatus, between traveling and preparing this new review, the site hit a small slump, but we're back and ready for action, and you should be too!

With a release date less than 10 days away, there is much hype surrounding the album, only enhanced by a brilliantly produced iTunes commercial. I was fortunate enough to have the chance to preview the album before the official release date, and I can say without a doubt that my ears were blessed to have listened to this new album. Ten days aren't going to arrive soon enough so I can go purchase my copy.

This time around, Coldplay has created what I believe to be a true masterpiece of modern music. It is everything you would expect from this phenomenal British band under the lead of Chris Martin to develop into. They have really shown their maturity on this album, covering a wide spectrum of topics in their piano-driven rock. When some bands reach the pinacle worldwide success that Coldplay exhibits, they can find the urge to try too hard, resulting in a uninspiring and unoriginal material. Coldplay, however, avoids this and perfects upon their distinct sound.

The title track, "Viva la Vida", which is featured in the aforementioned iTunes commercial, is the first single on the album, and is receiving considerable radio time. Catchy lyrics blended with violins and bells create an atmosphere that you can almost visualize. The single lyric "That was when I ruled the world," really encapsulates Coldplay's success in past years, and I would say this is definitely an appropriate choice as their first single.

In addition to the title track, the album consists of 11 or 12 others, depending on which edition you get. The preview I had included two acoustic tracks previously found on the album, "Lost?" and "Lovers in Japan".

The first track kicks off the album the right way with a 2.5 minute instrumental track of monumental proportions. Just hearing it gives you the notion that you are about to listen to one of the real albums of our time. I found that the album really lived up to its hype and expectations, putting Coldplay on a pedestal shared only by that of U2 and other bands that have transcended both time and distance, finding popularity worldwide.

Without giving away too many surprises, I will leave you in a little suspense and say that it is critical to listen to the album's "official" last track (not including bonus tracks), "Death and All His Friends", which finds a special place in my heart as my favorite moment in the album. It helps bring some closure to the greatness exhibited through the album, and helps the listener end both satisfied and happy. "Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends", Coldplay's latest release, does not disappoint, and will be on a constant repeat for the following months, come its June 17th release. I would recommend this to both fan's of Coldplay and those who enjoy music. This is an album that will live on and in my opinion, be considered an album of our time.