Get your logo WORKING for you

<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-420" height="216" src="http://creativeinstinct.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/tradepro-card.jpg?w=288&h=216" title="tradepro-card" width="288" /></div><br /><em></em> <br />Business logos aren’t just for multi-national corporations! They’re for any business that wants to present a professional image and work on establishing customer recognition (otherwise known as branding).<br /><br /><b>How Does A Logo “Work” for You?</b><br />Your logo works for you on your business cards, your business stationery, your invoices and receipts, your business’ publications, and, of course, your advertising. Put it on your business’ signage, on your yellow pages ad, and on the side of your business’ vehicle.<br />If you have a web site, your business logo should be on every page of your site. Many business people also feature their business logos on any promotional materials they hand out, such as mugs, calendars, and key chains.<br /><br /><b>Why You Need A Good Logo</b><br />The purpose of all this business logo reproduction is to separate your business from the common herd of competitors and build brand recognition and preference. (Think of the golden arches.) A good business logo helps your customers remember your business and many people remember images better than they remember words.<br /><b>Where To Start…</b><br />Would you give yourself a haircut or leave it to a professional? The same goes for your logo. For a truly professional look, it’s best to hire someone who knows the software and can guide you through the steps to a polished and effective logo design. If you’re in the process of designing a logo or having one designed remember:<br /><br /><b>1. KEEP IT SIMPLE. </b>A business logo has to be simple. Simplicity of business logo design makes a logo easy to reproduce and makes it easier for customers to remember and recognize. Limit the number of colours in your business logo, and stay away from muddy colours or tone on tone designs. Think clear contrast and simple shapes when thinking of business logo design.<br /><br /><b>2. RELEVANCE. </b>Your business logo has to have some relevance to your business. For instance, a Christmas tree shape with a bolt of lightning striking it won’t be an effective business logo for a computer consulting business. The “picture” the logo represents just doesn’t have any association with computers.<br /><br /><b>3. SYMBOL vs INITIALS. </b>It’s no coincidence that so many business logos are the initials of the business’ name encased in a simple shape; relevant pictorial associations are hard to come by for many businesses, and a symbol that misleads will do more harm than good.<br /><br /><b>4. COLOR. </b>Colors are powerful. Different colors have different associations and can present powerful messages in themselves. Red, as we all know, is seen as fiery and energetic. But what about brown? No matter how much you like a particular shade, it may not be a good choice for your business logo design.<br /><br /><b>5. SCALEABLE. </b>Your business logo has to be scaleable to suit all your promotional needs. The logo you choose has to look good on a business card, on a brochure, and on the side of a bus, for instance, if that’s how you choose to advertise. Complicated business logo designs don’t scale well. This is another example of why you should hire a professional to design your logo. A graphic designer has the software needed to create a scaleable (or “vector”) logo that can be scaled to any size without looking fuzzy or pixelated.

Get your logo WORKING for you

Business logos aren’t just for multi-national corporations! They’re for any business that wants to present a professional image and work ...

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Create A Great Business Name

<span style="color: #999999;"><i></i></span> <br /><div><a href="http://creativeinstinct.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/nametag1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-519" height="231" src="http://creativeinstinct.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/nametag1.jpg?w=324&h=231" title="nametag" width="324" /></a>A great name is the beginning of a great brand. It should be memorable and create a certain feeling when heard. Here’s a quick how-to on creating one and making sure it’s not already used.</div><h3>Here’s How:</h3><ol><li><b>Brainstorm.</b> Think about how you want people to feel when they hear the name. Write down the words on paper and then categorize them by primary meaning.</li><li><b>Relate.</b> Think about related words and phrases that evoke the feelings you want. Hit the thesaurus and find all the synonyms for your words and phrases.</li><li><b>Relate more. </b>Find out the Greek and Latin translations of your words. Figure out what colors, gemstones, plants, animals, etc., relate to your words.</li><li><b>Experiment. </b>Start playing with combinations of your various words and partial words. Don’t be judgmental now – just make a list.</li><li><b>Reflect.</b> Review your list and just give some thought to each name. How does it make you feel when you hear it?</li><li><b>Communicate.</b> Go over the list with someone you trust. Have them tell you how each name makes them feel, and how memorable they think it is.</li><li><b>Prioritize.</b> Throw out any that just don’t fit and make a prioritized list of the rest.</li><li><b>Check trademarks. </b>Make sure no one is using that name in your line of business. You may be able to use the name in a completely different business, but be aware that it may create confusion for both you and them.</li><li><b>Check domain names. </b>You want to make sure that an appropriate domain name is available. You want YourCompanyName.com, of course. If that’s not available, you may want to reconsider.</li><li><b>Search the internet.</b> Even if someone doesn’t have the domain, you still want to see what else is out there that has the same name. That doesn’t mean you don’t use it if you find something, but you need to know.</li><li><b>Check company names.</b> If you’re planning to incorporate, check with the Secretary of State (or other appropriate office outside the U.S.) of the state you’re planning to incorporate in.</li><li><b>Check assumed names.</b> For sole proprietors, check for local assumed names (also known as DBA). In the U.S., you check this with the County Clerk.</li><li><b>Stake your claim!</b> Register your assumed name or file your incorporation papers right away. Also, start using either TM (trademark) or SM (service mark). You do NOT have to register them to use them.</li><li><b>Get the domain(s). </b>Find an inexpensive registrar and register your domain and any obvious variations on it. You shouldn’t be paying more than $10 a year for each, and at that, it pays to prevent poachers.</li><li><b>Protect your brand.</b> A U.S. trademark or service mark costs $325. It’s a drop in the bucket compared to trying to defend it later. It’s not really necessary, though, for a small local business.</li></ol><h3>Tips:</h3><ol><li>Avoid generic names based on names, such as Joe’s Bar, Sam’s Hardware, etc. They’re not memorable and are nearly impossible to trademark.</li><li>Avoid generic names that literally describe the product or service, like Computer Consulting Company, Appliance Sales and Service, Inc., etc.</li><li>Generally, avoid geographical names. Besides not generally being very memorable, what happens if you decide to move or expand? The exception is if you’re trying to create a strong local affinity like, say, a neighborhood bar.</li><li>Preferably, don’t restrict future product or service lines. Be broad enough to include your wildest long-term vision for the business.</li><li>Try to keep the name short and easy to pronounce</li></ol>

Create A Great Business Name

A great name is the beginning of a great brand. It should be memorable and create a certain feeling when heard. Here’s a quick how-to o...

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Tips to Creating SPEC ADS

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kylesmithcreative.net/uploads/7/0/9/2/7092780/8249386.jpg?1302808175" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://www.kylesmithcreative.net/uploads/7/0/9/2/7092780/8249386.jpg?1302808175" width="320" /></a></div>Find any ad you feel is missing something. Are the words not packing a punch? Does the headline fizzle? Is the call to action weak? Not motivated to buy the product after you finish the ad? Choose an ad that is missing the key elements all copywriting projects need.<br /><br />You're going to use this original ad to create your own version. This is called a SPEC AD.<br /><br />In the advertising industry, a SPEC AD (for speculative ad) is an ad you created on your own. You didn't work with the ad agency or client to create the ad. You are simply using a SPEC AD to show your own take on how you would write the ad.<br /><br />SPEC ADS are very common for budding copywriters who have little to no experience under their belt. They are a great way for you to display your copywriting talent to a potential client or employer. Most copywriters who use SPEC ADS in their portfolio have limited or no copywriting samples to show in the interview process.<br /><br />For our example, we've selected a print ad in a magazine.

Tips to Creating SPEC ADS

Find any ad you feel is missing something. Are the words not packing a punch? Does the headline fizzle? Is the call to action weak? Not mo...

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Manage Your Customer Relationships or Perish

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAaBdkuu6mNbK6RF3HhBoMnUmXSMuLA5SUJt0gILvaYGsWkvuWMVZXdIkGC7-4ianzU9rMUXzW4OKmhbHOqWug9LomaxVTOpZRY5UD0Xb_zcRSAUe5YnSN5b5LW6uuQjJ3jeLKpmEroyc/s1600/business-handshake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAaBdkuu6mNbK6RF3HhBoMnUmXSMuLA5SUJt0gILvaYGsWkvuWMVZXdIkGC7-4ianzU9rMUXzW4OKmhbHOqWug9LomaxVTOpZRY5UD0Xb_zcRSAUe5YnSN5b5LW6uuQjJ3jeLKpmEroyc/s320/business-handshake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>With an explosion of choice in product and service selection winning more business is getting tougher each year. Reaching and nurturing customer relations are essential for a small business to survival. Central to managing any customer relationship is CRM or customer relationship management software. Discover the necessary survival strategy of managing customer relations with the technology of today.<br /><br />Gone are the days of marketing to your potential customer base and sitting back to reap the rewards of a great ad campaign. Gone are the days of grabbing the hottest leads and forgetting about the warmer less inclined to buy now clients. Gone are the days of using a simple notebook or excel spreadsheet to collect your lead list.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Customer Relationship Management: Share of Wallet</span>.<br /><br />The late father of management Peter Drucker, simply stated, “Shares in disposable income are the foundation of all economic information. Businesses keep figures on sales and know whether they go up or down. But practically none knows the truly important figure: the share of the disposable income of their customers that is being spent on the products or services that they produce and sell.”<br /><br />The battle for customers is a zero sum game. No matter how wonderful your product or service, your potential customers have a limited disposable income. Their disposable income is in a state of change with rising and fall incomes and living expenses. How can you get your share of their wallet?<br /><br />Companies poised to win their share of the wallet know customer relationship management is not a luxury but an essential to being in business. According to Forrester Research, businesses under 100 employees will account for more than 30% the CRM market reach in 2007. Is your small business CRM ready?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overcoming the Hurdles to Successful CRM Implementation</span>.<br /><br />Customer relationship management or CRM is the methodology and tools of finding, communicating, and retaining your best customers. Software programs such as GoldMine or ACT! or subscription services like Salesforce.com help you build lead lists, merge mail, handle contacts, and assess the results of your marketing campaigns.<br /><br />Many larger corporations have failed at successful implementation of CRM. While it’s easy to blame the software or incompetent staff, the real issue lies with employee motives, time, and training. Use these success tactics for overcoming the hurdles you will encounter with CRM.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spot Check:</span> My own experiences with customer relationship management tools found employees aren't only reluctant to adapt a new technology but outright resist the sales lead component of CRM software. For under performers, tracking leads reveals their true incompetence. I have witnessed sales personal enter in fake names and numbers to avoid the scrutiny of a sales manager. Successful implementation of CRM requires periodic spot checking of lead entries and even calling leads to see if they exist.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Make Time:</span> Whether you are the only user of CRM software or have a staff, it’s critical to set aside time each week for using the technology. Like any new business application, regular use will reduce time and help you see the rewards of CRM.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get Trained:</span> A large part of setting aside time is learning the new tools of CRM. Learning typically follows a U-shaped curve with the initial phase being difficult till it peaks and learning accelerates. Be patient and in no time you will master the must have tools of CRM.<br /><br />Winning the customer game with customer relationship management tools is a necessary for any small business today. The more you know your customers and build a strong relationship, the greater your odds at winning the minds and wallets of your customers in the competitive market.

Manage Your Customer Relationships or Perish

With an explosion of choice in product and service selection winning more business is getting tougher each year. Reaching and nurturing cu...

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Ways to Make Money Online

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfUlLf7VEzMGR45MuvR57nQ0hEojOhFvYTiA98BrjptPGSgALSFFzQs0TECoo1GdL4cE49jNCE5wafWznTDN3z36vqfsI1vkT0yJURVH1qLGUpCuzyRq5daShEwnvET09rEJl7F2Kuemw/s1600/Make+Money+from+Home+Online.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfUlLf7VEzMGR45MuvR57nQ0hEojOhFvYTiA98BrjptPGSgALSFFzQs0TECoo1GdL4cE49jNCE5wafWznTDN3z36vqfsI1vkT0yJURVH1qLGUpCuzyRq5daShEwnvET09rEJl7F2Kuemw/s320/Make+Money+from+Home+Online.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>It might surprise you to hear that there are only two ways to make money online, but, its true. No matter how many methods of making money online there are, they all come down to 2 basic methods. The reason so many people fail to make money online, is simply because they fail to understand this concept. They waist their time and money, and never make a dime. If you want to succeed in making a living online, you need to understand that when it comes down to it, there are only two ways to make money online, and those two methods are:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trading one’s time for money</span><br /><br />This is the first and I believe the easiest way for making money online. Online money making methods like, paid surveys, freelancing, GPT, writing for websites and blogs, designing themes and etc fall under this category. Of course, you could argue that you need some knowledge and know how to make money with most of these methods, which is true, but, all of these methods require you to spend time. So, when it comes down to it, you are trading your time for money. Simple as that!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trading online traffic for money</span><br /><br />Another basic thing you need to make money online, is simply trading traffic for money. The goal is simple, drive traffic to a website, blog or what have you, and try to convert that traffic into sales. A lot of great online money making methods fall under this category, such as blogging, CPA marketing, affiliate marketing, ad sense revenue sharing and any other method that realize on traffic for making money.<br /><br />Yes, there are many ways to make money online, some can make you thousands of dollars, and some are only good for making a little extra cash. But, when you think about it, all of them come down to these 2 methods. Any online money making method that you can think of, that you or someone else is using to make money online, is possible either by trading time for money or trading traffic for money, and in some case both. So, if you can do either or both, congratulations! you have hunderds of possible ways to make money online.

Ways to Make Money Online

It might surprise you to hear that there are only two ways to make money online, but, its true. No matter how many methods of making money ...

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Get Customers to Buy Now

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbTOM4f5pPNSIGWCP8JtxjCeRYY8SU1u_3eIkSnKXY35wyPD6udnvSug8KZuKubzI2rYhQK1M16O37aH9I8guzgB5BoLAjl2tHml9EKFABRInzU-Acb1lVodxacPfJ7SInbtMwzsdB9Qv/s1600/Get-Customers-To-Buy-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbTOM4f5pPNSIGWCP8JtxjCeRYY8SU1u_3eIkSnKXY35wyPD6udnvSug8KZuKubzI2rYhQK1M16O37aH9I8guzgB5BoLAjl2tHml9EKFABRInzU-Acb1lVodxacPfJ7SInbtMwzsdB9Qv/s1600/Get-Customers-To-Buy-.jpg" /></a></div>You sent out the best direct mail piece you've ever seen. Your catalog belongs in the Smithsonian. Your brochure is so great you framed it and put it next to the pictures of your kids.<br /><br />So why aren't you getting sales?<br /><br />Take a look at your call to action. With any advertising materials, it's crucial that you get potential customers to act. Now!<br /><br />Use the following techniques to create a call to action that will have your phones ringing off the hook and your profits reinventing your sales graphs:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Give a Deadline for Ordering</span><br />We've all received some sort of promotional material that has a deadline for ordering. The offer could end on that date.<br /><br />Or you could use the deadline in conjunction with an upgrade or free gift. For example, order by the 15th and receive....<br /><br />Also, try to make the cut off date in the same month as your materials will be received. That way, your potential customers know they only have a limited time to respond and they won't fall victim to the "I'll do it later" syndrome.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Advise of a Price Increase</span><br />People want to get in on a good deal. If your price is going up on a specific date, let your customers know. They'll want to buy before your product's price increases.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Establish a Trial/Introductory Period</span><br />Trial periods are a great way to get new customers. Offer a special deal, extra service or a lower price during your trial/introductory period.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Free Gift</span><br />Nothing attracts new customers like free gifts. As an added incentive for ordering, offer your free gift to the first 100 or 1000 people that respond.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"No Risk" Trial</span><br />People want to know there's no risk involved if they're not satisfied with the product/service. Let new customers know they can cancel for any reason before the trial period expires.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Not Available in Stores"</span><br />Is your product exclusive to mail order? If your product's not available in stores, be sure to tell your customers. They'll know they can only order your product from you instead of visiting the local stores.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Offer an Upgrade</span><br />One simple line can boost your sales. "Order within 10 days and we'll upgrade you to the deluxe model."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Free Supplies/Accessories</span><br />You've seen this technique used with computer sales. Buy a computer and receive a free printer. This works with a whole range of products. But be sure to include a date on your offer. This politely urges people to take advantage of your offer before time runs out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Use Action Phrases</span><br />No matter how you approach your own call to action, be sure to include action phrases:<br /><br />Call Now. Toll Free. 24 Hours a Day. Mail this coupon today in the postage-paid envelope. Fax your response card.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Avoid Passive Phrases</span><br />Be sure to avoid passive phrases like:<br /><br />You know how to reach us. Call when you're ready to order.<br /><br />Give your customers the perks of responding immediately. They'll grab their wallets. You'll see an increase in profits.

Get Customers to Buy Now

You sent out the best direct mail piece you've ever seen. Your catalog belongs in the Smithsonian. Your brochure is so great you framed...

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Phone Answering Tips to Win Business

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6xOij5qU66SLn8G9SDr4URgYGxKm4VHzc_U4WYAdllybOJ0qPqNzMWzXdXs7P-TEp741G3Kl2zwFRxuW2o9DGGoe29E4uV6nsMWy3NvB4xRF0IlK62HSQexghzeT9Q7Fx6752ol5klT2/s1600/phone-answering.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6xOij5qU66SLn8G9SDr4URgYGxKm4VHzc_U4WYAdllybOJ0qPqNzMWzXdXs7P-TEp741G3Kl2zwFRxuW2o9DGGoe29E4uV6nsMWy3NvB4xRF0IlK62HSQexghzeT9Q7Fx6752ol5klT2/s320/phone-answering.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Phone answering skills are critical for businesses. The telephone is still most business's primary point of contact with customers. And the way you answer your company's phone will form your customer's first impression of your business. These phone answering tips will ensure that callers know they're dealing with a winning business:<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Answer all incoming phone calls before the third ring. <br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>When you answer the phone, be warm and enthusiastic. Your voice at the end of the telephone line is sometimes the only impression of your company a caller will get.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>When answering the phone, welcome callers courteously and identify yourself and your organization. Say, for instance, "Good morning. Cypress Technologies. Susan speaking. How may I help you?" No one should ever have to ask if they've reached such and such a business.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Enunciate clearly, keep your voice volume moderate, and speak slowly and clearly when answering the phone, so your caller can understand you easily.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Control your language when answering the phone. Don't use slang or jargon. Instead of saying, "OK", or "No problem", for instance, say "Certainly", "Very well", or "All right". If you're a person who uses fillers when you speak, such as "uh huh", "um", or phrases such as "like" or "you know", train yourself carefully not to use these when you speak on the phone.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Train your voice and vocabulary to be positive when phone answering, even on a "down" day. For example, rather than saying, "I don't know", say, "Let me find out about that for you."<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Take telephone messages completely and accurately. If there's something you don't understand or can't spell, such as a person's surname, ask the caller to repeat it or spell it for you. Then make sure the message gets to the intended recipient.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Answer all your calls within one business day. I can't emphasize this one enough. Remember the early bird? The early caller can get the contract, the sale, the problem solved... and reinforce the favorable impression of your business that you want to circulate.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Always ask the caller if it's all right to put her on hold when answering the phone, and don't leave people on hold. Provide callers on hold with progress reports every 30 to 45 seconds. Offer them choices if possible, such as "That line is still busy. Will you continue to hold or should I have ________ call you back?"<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Don't use a speaker phone unless absolutely necessary. Speaker phones give the caller the impression that you're not fully concentrating on his call, and make him think that his call isn't private. The only time to use a speaker phone is when you need more than one person to be in on the conversation at your end.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>If you use an answering machine to answer calls when you can't, make sure that you have a professional message recorded, that does the same thing as tip # 3, and gives callers any other pertinent information before it records their messages. Update your answering machine message as needed. For instance, if your business is going to be closed for a holiday, update your recorded answering machine message to say so and to say when your business will reopen.<br /></li><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><li>Train everyone else who answers the phone to answer the same way, including other family members if you're running a home-based business. Check on how your business's phone is being answered by calling in and seeing if the phone is being answered in a professional manner. If they don't pass the test, go over this telephone answering tips list with them.</li>

Phone Answering Tips to Win Business

Phone answering skills are critical for businesses. The telephone is still most business's primary point of contact with customers. And...

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Make Easy Money On The Internet with Writing

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXg5-DR9FmQ4sgJEZQhcXmVrmj0f5Up6dMLN55tyyzMLL4nHUvov7iq22bxmO40C16fEhIaWVwV-HqvB5EbkF4kyQykwfmaQhbE8lQQQRxOchwBQvfqqgvKaz0gSYk1lTCQ8ZBSaBuc0AY/s1600/anonym0us.tk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXg5-DR9FmQ4sgJEZQhcXmVrmj0f5Up6dMLN55tyyzMLL4nHUvov7iq22bxmO40C16fEhIaWVwV-HqvB5EbkF4kyQykwfmaQhbE8lQQQRxOchwBQvfqqgvKaz0gSYk1lTCQ8ZBSaBuc0AY/s1600/anonym0us.tk.jpg" /></a></div>Here are some easy ways to make money, if you like writing.<br />Probably should have said simple ways to make money, rather than easy ways to make money, because there is a difference between simple and easy. But who cares, this is about how to make easy moneyquickly.<br /><br /><b>1. </b>Make easy money online naming domains. The original idea comes from Dane Carson’s blog. While you can earn money as a contributor for services such as PickyDomains.Com, here is a better idea. Go to Google or any other search engine, find sucky domain names and contact their owners directly, offering them your services. The key to success is to make it 100% risk free. Inform your prospective clients that you’ll accept money only if they like your domain name. If you come up with one approved domain name a day and charge what PickyDomain charges, you can make $1500 a month. Another twist – come up with cool domain names, like SiteToRemember.Com or ItsMe.Com, register them yourself and sell them on the aftermarket.<br /><br /><b>2. </b>eBay arbitrage. A lot of people like buying stuff on eBay, because it’s cheap. And some people never buy on eBay, because they are afraid of being ripped off. Here is your solution to making easy money on eBay. Go to Craigslist.Com and see what items people buy and sell most often. Look at prices. Then go to eBay and see, if you can get it cheaper. Once you find your niche, you can buy things on eBay (or better yet, act as a representative for an eBay powerseller) and sell them for a profit using local classifieds and Craigslist. You can do this online as well. Set up a proxy store, and when you get an order, simply buy the same item on eBay for less, substituting shipping address from your own to that of your buyer.<br /><br /><b>3.</b> eBay copywriting. If you are good at copywriting, go to eBay and look for highticket items, like boats. Find auctions with totally sucky descriptions. Contact an owner and inform him or her that good description of his or her item is likely to increase the chances of that item being sold. Then offer your services for a 1% of the selling price. You can use free eBay software<br /><br /><b>4. </b>Get Paid Writing Reviews. This idea comes from a blog called Business Ideas That Work. A site called SoftwareJudge.Com pays up to 50 dollars per good review. However, if you are good at reviewing software, you can do this on your own. Go to CNET or any other site that lists software. Find sites that don’t have any reviews or testimonials. Contact developers directly, offering them your review services. Good reviews and testimonials increases sales, so you shouldn’t have any difficulties convincing developers that they need your services. And you get free software and games too! Oh, and you don't have to limit yourself to software alone.<br /><br /><b>5.</b> Social Bookmark Whoring (oops, I meant to say PR). This is really easy money online. RedDit and Digg can bring a crapload of traffic. And traffic means money. If you have experience creating linkbate titles and getting to the top, why not offer your services? Say, you charge 10 dollars for submitting news to RedDit, Digg, StumbleUpon, Furl, NewsVine, Fark and all the other social bookmarting sites. The key is to work only with interesting stories, so you don’t become a spammer. 10 news a day and you are 100 dollars richer. You can probably work out a deal with online PR agencies, because they are totally clueless about this.<br /><br /><b>6.</b> Writing Google AdWords Ads. Every time I see “Cake Icing. Used And New. eBay.Com” type ads or “Four best sites on killing your wife”, it makes me wonder. Aren’t there any GOOD AdWords ads copywriters? Look’s like a great job to me. The ads are only three lines long and if you charge 10 bucks per ad, you can make a lot of money. And the customers are easy to find, too. Just look at all these terrible ads that Google displays on their search engine and contextual network.<br /><br /><b>7.</b> Wacky blogs. Steve Pavlina gets over 300 dollars a day from AdSense alone, writing on wacky topics, like polyphasic sleep, astral projection and psychic development. Or take David Icke, who claims that president Bush in an alien and a reptilian. Your blog doesn’t have to be true, it just has to be interesting.<br /><br /><b>8.</b> Blog whoring. There are a number of services, like PayPerPost.Com, that pay for promotional blogposts. Once again, you can do the same thing, cutting the middleman out.<br /><br /><b>9. </b>Unique Personal Ads. Write memorable personal ads for online daters. Most personal ads suck. “Hi, my name is Bambie, I’m a Vergo, I’m 19 and I love dogs.” Here is my favorite personal ad. If people pay for resume writing, they might pay for a great personal ad.<br /><br /><b>10.</b> Poet For Hire. This is nothing new. Still, if you love writing poetry, why not make some money with your rhymes.<br /><br /><b>11.</b> Don’t EVEN THINK about majoring in English, Medieval Literature, Journalism or GET A REAL JOB, IF YOU WERE DUMB ENOUGH TO DO SO. Just kidding. If you love writing, just write, and the money will follow.

Make Easy Money On The Internet with Writing

Here are some easy ways to make money, if you like writing. Probably should have said simple ways to make money, rather than easy ways to ma...

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Create Your Own Pedicure Design

<div class="article-mod clearfix article-text">Plunge into the fun world of nail art and demonstrate your skills by creating fabulous pedicure designs which will contribute greatly to the stylish appearance of your feet. Inspire yourself from the following pedicure designs and your feet will most definitely look all styled-up! </div><div class="article-mod clearfix article-text"></div><div class="article-mod clearfix article-text">Summer is right around the corner and your feet have to be all prepped and ready for those killer sandals you've been yearning to wear. An easy to do pedicure design can most definitely add more fun and beauty to your toenails, making them stand out and enhance the style of your flirty shoes, so gather all your tools and get ready to be creative. <br /><br />Open toe shoes and sandals are a definite must this spring summer season, so grab your favorite shoe styles and match your pedicure design to the shoe style and its coloration. You'll be amazed of the impact <b>nail polish</b> can have over the aspect of your toenails, so use your skills to create various pedicure nail art designs that suit your style and personality. Go for summery nail polish hues that brighten up your feet, as your options are vast, thanks to the myriad on nail polish hues developed. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedicure3_thumb.jpg" /><img alt="" src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedi-2_thumb.jpg" /></div><br /><div class="article-mod clearfix article-pictures"></div><br /><div class="article-mod"><ul class="horiz-art-list"><li> Home Pedicure Tips </li></ul></div><div class="article-mod clearfix article-text">Simple is definitely the easiest and most popular way to go as far as any <b>nail art</b> design goes, and this means you can have a lovely pedicure without spending a dime. You can do your own pedicure and put on your favorite nail polish, and you'll definitely look hot and stylish. Use hues which suit your personality and contrast the color of your shoes for best results. <br />Apply one or two coats of your fav nail polish and seal it with a top coat for a glossy, long lasting finish. Orange tones are highly popular this spring summer season, so give these hues a try to add a splash of color to your nails. Add more fun to your nails by turning towards nail art stickers, as they can be easily applied and come in a variety of styles. </div><br /><div class="article-mod clearfix article-pictures"><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedicure703166.jpg" target="_blank" title=""><img alt="" src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedicure703166_thumb.jpg" /></a><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedicure2.jpg" target="_blank" title=""><img alt="" src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedicure2_thumb.jpg" /></a><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurefrench.jpg" target="_blank" title="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs "><img alt="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs " src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurefrench_thumb.jpg" /></a><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedicure.jpg" target="_blank" title=""><img alt="" src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/pedicure_thumb.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="article-mod clearfix article-text">A French pedicure is definitely suitable for all occasions, so if simplicity and elegance is your style, this type of pedicure design will suit you like a glove. Creating a French style pedicure is quite easy; you can use special guiding strips or you can use your skill to trace out the French tip. Use a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover to repair any mistakes and adjust the design, making it look perfect. Keep things simple or use glitter or rhinestones to give the nail a more glamorous allure.</div><br /><div class="article-mod clearfix article-pictures"><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurecolored.jpg" target="_blank" title="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs "><img alt="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs " src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurecolored_thumb.jpg" /></a><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurelovedots.jpg" target="_blank" title="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs "><img alt="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs " src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurelovedots_thumb.jpg" /></a><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurestars.jpg" target="_blank" title="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs "><img alt="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs " src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicurestars_thumb.jpg" /></a><a class="art-content-img" href="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicureanimal.jpg" target="_blank" title="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs "><img alt="Easy to Do Pedicure Designs " src="http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2011/Mar/16/4065/naildesignspedicureanimal_thumb.jpg" /></a></div><br />If you're looking for a more sophisticated nail art design, which will have a little bit of edgy-vibe attached, you should be directing your attention towards designs which feature multiple hues, glitter, rhinestones, stickers, hand painted details, etc. <br />Animal prints, floral designs, glitter applications, color mixes are only a few of the options you have as far as your pedicure design goes, so experiment and go wild for a statement look. Don't hold back your artistic side and experiment to create your own personalized design that will make your nails look incredibly fashionable!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source: <a href="http://www.bodycare.becomegorgeous.com/" target="_blank">bodycare </a></span>

Create Your Own Pedicure Design

Plunge into the fun world of nail art and demonstrate your skills by creating fabulous pedicure designs which will contribute greatly to th...

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Microsoft Bug Removes Google Chrome

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbUEVQYUge3xa82roumJMIKH_F8C2gyu0ATodphV81j_SIuIBYQ2w5J6gz0Re5OCJFF1bILaeTFOXBjADjgksezJEID1UNSlYWymxvEWUChEu14LmyGkoT3FfsiHTn10ZpL7cy6jGOt8D/s1600/319504-google-chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbUEVQYUge3xa82roumJMIKH_F8C2gyu0ATodphV81j_SIuIBYQ2w5J6gz0Re5OCJFF1bILaeTFOXBjADjgksezJEID1UNSlYWymxvEWUChEu14LmyGkoT3FfsiHTn10ZpL7cy6jGOt8D/s1600/319504-google-chrome.jpg" /></a></div>Hundreds of Google Chrome users (at least) have found their internet browser of choice removed from their Windows PCs after Microsoft deleted the web-surfing app.<br />And no, Microsoft didn't start pushing out Chrome because it's gaining market share and posing a threat to Internet Explorer. Microsoft said in an emailed statement that the Chrome removals took place due to a mistake on the part of its Microsoft Security Essentials software for Windows.<br />Microsoft Security Essentials and also Microsoft's Forefront Endpoint Protection software can remove Google Chrome as a malware threat. This matches up with reporting from the website ZDnet, which broke news of the Chrome problems on Friday morning in the US.<br />The software errors wrongly spot Chrome as malware to be removed from PCs. For affected users, simply trying to reinstall Chrome doesn't solve the problem. Instead, Microsoft's software removes the browser again.<br /><br />The Windows-maker, however, said that an update to Microsoft Security Essentials' software has been pushed out to the web and it's working on making everything well again.<br />Here's the explanation from Microsoft:<br />"On September 30th, 2011, an incorrect detection for PWS:Win32/Zbot was identified and as a result, Google Chrome was inadvertently blocked and in some cases removed from customers PCs. We worked quickly to provide an updated signature (1.113.672.0) at 9:57am PDT to fix this issue. Affected customers should manually update Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) with the latest signatures. To do this, simply launch MSE, go to the update tab and click the Update button, and then reinstall Google Chrome. We apologise for the inconvenience this may have caused our customers."<br />Google, for its part, published a blog post on the matter, explaining to Chrome users in a series of steps how to reinstall the browser after Microsoft's mistake.<br />It's also working on releasing an update to Chrome to help protect the browser from the buggy version of Microsoft Security Essentials.<br /><br />From Google's blog post:<br />"Earlier today, we learned that the Microsoft Security Essentials tool began falsely identifying Google Chrome as a piece of malware ("PWS:Win32/Zbot") and removing it from people's computers. If Chrome is working correctly for you, then there's no need to take any action. We are releasing an update that will automatically repair Chrome for affected users over the course of the next 24 hours."<br />So were you affected? If so, did you see the problem with Microsoft Security Essentials or Microsoft Forefront Endpoint Protection? If Chrome was removed, but you're back up and running in Chrome now, are your bookmarks and other data still around or wiped out?<br /><br /><br />source: <a href="http://english.kompas.com/read/2011/10/03/09245551/Microsoft.Bug.Removes.Google.Chrome" target="_blank">kompas</a>

Microsoft Bug Removes Google Chrome

Hundreds of Google Chrome users (at least) have found their internet browser of choice removed from their Windows PCs after Microsoft delet...

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Casio's Bluetooth 4.0 G-Shock

<div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/25/casios-bluetooth-4-0-g-shock-is-water-and-shock-resistant-fcc/"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/07/casio-gzone-bluetooth-closeup.jpg" style="border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; margin: 4px;" /></a></div>The latest G-Shock watch from Casio boasts the usual array of shock and water-resistant claims, and now it can add FCC acceptance to the list, having passed through that government agency's approval process. So, why did this wristwatch hit the FCC in the first place? Well, the rugged little timekeeper is packing Bluetooth 4.0 in its bag of tricks, which lets the wearable gadget communicate with your smartphone. No word on a release date, but Casio did mention a fairly broad "some time in 2011" window when it was first announced back in March. Here's hoping that its FCC debut will speed the shock-filled process along.

Casio's Bluetooth 4.0 G-Shock

The latest G-Shock watch from Casio boasts the usual array of shock and water-resistant claims, and now it can add FCC acceptance to the...

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Casio's solar-powered Pathfinder watch

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2010/03/3-18-10-casiopag110c-3solarassist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2010/03/3-18-10-casiopag110c-3solarassist.jpg" /></a></div>Plotting their latest spread of watches this spring, <a href="http://www.engadget.com/tag/casio">Casio</a> executives decided it was time to "go green." Some poor schmuck in R&D took them at their word. Thankfully for mother nature, the Casio Pathfinder PRG110C-3 is more than meets the eye; the watch -- suited for argonauts needing an altimeter, barometer, thermometer and digital compass -- also has a miniature <a href="http://www.engadget.com/tag/solar+cell/">solar cell</a> built into its face to <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2005/05/10/citizens-eco-drive-watch-never-needs-a-battery/">automatically recharge the battery</a>. Though Casio's claim that this last will cut down on the three billion batteries Americans trash each year seems a little reaching -- watch batteries last a <i>lot</i> longer than a AA -- the timepiece does help the planet some merely by being packaged in recyclables. The $250 device will be available exclusively from Amazon, and yeah, the color you see here is the color you'll get.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="post_via "></div><img alt="source" class="img_label" src="http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/post_label_source.gif" /><span class="caption"><a href="http://www.casio.com/news/content/917E7FD3-8ECA-42DD-B16B-0F13EE450196/">Casio</a>, <a href="http://www.casio-intl.com/wat/toughsolar.html">Casio Tough Solar</a></span>

Casio's solar-powered Pathfinder watch

Plotting their latest spread of watches this spring, Casio executives decided it was time to "go green." Some poor schmuck in R...

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Casio's Poptone Cubic Puzzle watch

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tokyoflash.com/en/watches/casio/cubic_puzzle/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="1" height="235" hspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2009/09/casio-puzzle-watch-09-28-09.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></a></div><br />Alright, so Casio's new Poptone Cubic Puzzle watch may not actually contain any puzzles (or games of any sort, for that matter), but it does boasts some buttons that kind of, sort of resemble Tetris pieces, and it in comes in blue, which is good enough for us. Otherwise, it looks like you'll get all the usual watch functions you'd expect from a watch, including 12 or 24 hour time settings, a stopwatch, an alarm clock, and a backlight -- not to mention an "animated display," which remains something of a puzzle. Sold? Then you can grab one right now in your choice of black or blue for just under $90.

Casio's Poptone Cubic Puzzle watch

Alright, so Casio's new Poptone Cubic Puzzle watch may not actually contain any puzzles (or games of any sort, for that matter), but i...

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Magic Watch Casio

<a href="http://watch.brando.com.hk/prod_detail.php?prod_id=00103"><img alt="" border="0" hspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2006/12/wcasi001200_01_l.jpg" style="display: block; margin: auto;" vspace="4" /></a>Just when we were beginning to think that the well of watch innovation had run dry, Casio comes along and renews our faith in multi-use timepieces, with a watch that not only tells time, but does magic! The appropriately-named Casio Magic Watch was created with the assistance of close-up magician Tomohiro Maeda, who may or may not be responsible for the totally 80s-inspired design, but most definitely is the man behind the five tricks the watch can help you perform, including guessing the number or card that a person is thinking of or roping your friends into a little con game. For some old school magic, each watch also comes bundled with an exclusive set of Tomohiro Maeda playing cards from Tally-Ho, though you'll have to decide if that's enough to justify the $80 price tag.<br /><br /><br /><br />source:<a href="http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/19/casio-magic-watch/" target="_blank">engadget.com</a>

Magic Watch Casio

Just when we were beginning to think that the well of watch innovation had run dry, Casio comes along and renews our faith in multi-use tim...

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Casio debuts Prizm graphing calculator

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/09/casio-debuts-prizm-graphing-calculator-with-high-res-color-scr/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" hspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2010/10/casio-prizm-10-08-2010.jpg" vspace="4" /></a></div><div><br />Texas Instruments recently rocked the graphing calculator world by adding a touchpad to its TI-Nspire calculator, and Casio has now come back with a technological revolution of its own: a high-res color screen. Of course, a 3.7-inch, 384 X 216 display may not be much by smartphone standards, but Casio insists that the "Blanview" LCD will let equations and text be "displayed just like they appear in textbooks." The rest of the calculator's specs aren't too shabby either, and include USB connectivity, 16MB of flash memory, and a promised 140 hours of battery life. You'll still have to stick to your cold, hard black-and-white world for a while longer, however, as the Prizm won't be available until sometime in January, when it'll set you back $129.99.</div><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><img alt="source" class="img_label" src="http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/post_label_source.gif" /><span class="caption"><a href="http://www.casioeducation.com/prizm/home" target="_blank">Casio Education</a></span>

Casio debuts Prizm graphing calculator

Texas Instruments recently rocked the graphing calculator world by adding a touchpad to its TI-Nspire calculator, and Casio has now come ba...

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Casio Tryx (EX-TR100)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img height="265" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-grand-canyon-1304478088.jpg" width="400" /></div>Given the sheer quantity of marketing muscle that Casio put behind the Tryx, you'd think the company was gearing up to rival Nikon and Canon in the DSLR space. Instead, out popped the outre device you see above. Without qualification, this is one of the strangest, most bizarrely designed cameras we've ever seen, featuring a pop-out display and a grand total of <i>two</i> buttons for operation. At 4.8- x 2.3- x 0.6-inches, it's certainly one of the slimmest, easy-to-carry point-and-shoots on the market, but is the absence of an optical zoom and a removable battery enough to tank an otherwise radical idea? Head on past the break for our two pennies.<br /><br /><a class="4107145" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on/#4107145" rel="casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-hands-on1409_103x88.jpg" /></a><br /><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107146" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on/#4107146" rel="casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-hands-on1411_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107147" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on/#4107147" rel="casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-hands-on1412_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107148" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on/#4107148" rel="casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-hands-on1413_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107149" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on/#4107149" rel="casio-tryx-ex-tr100-hands-on" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-hands-on1414_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><h5><br />Design</h5>Let's be crystal clear here -- Casio's playing up the design angle <i>hard</i> on the Tryx. And unsurprisingly so, might we add. The chassis is undoubtedly the differentiating factor that separates this shooter from a myriad others that are currently cluttering store shelves, but the real question is this: does it matter? We've seen pop-out displays emerge on DSLRs -- where they're seen as helpful for budding video makers who need to shoot low-angle clips -- but Casio's taking a leap of faith by assuming the same theory will translate in the compact realm.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" height="266" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107300" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-rim.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></div>The outer "rim" that surrounds the optics and the 3-inch touchpanel is constructed of a markedly robust metal. We did our best can-crunching pose, and the frame barely flexed. All that's needed to separate the LCD from the frame is a solid shove, and things click back into place automatically once swung back around. Once exposed, the LCD is surrounded by an SDXC / SDHC / SD card slot, a mini HDMI output and a USB charging port. Each of those are covered by flimsy plastic clips, which we're guessing won't last a year given the assumption of normal wear and tear. The bezel is home to just two physical buttons: an on / off switch and a shutter trigger.<br /><br />After you've moved the LCD out into the open, you can swivel it 360 degrees -- perfect for shooting low-angle video and self-portraits. The hinge does an excellent job of holding the LCD where you put it, yet it's smooth enough that it doesn't require the assistance of the Old Spice Guy to return it to its default position. The 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor that dominates the face of the device is encased in a protective layer, and while we weren't able to scratch it during our recent jaunt to Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest and Joshua Tree National Parks, we're still leery that one or two tumbles could render all of your future photos a bit less idyllic.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" height="266" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107302" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-open.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></div>As clever as the design is, we found ourselves struggling to unearth a purpose even after using it for a week. If you attempt to pop the LCD out and set it on a table for a timed group shot, you're foiled by the fact that it'll sit cockeyed on whatever surface you place it on. If you consistently shoot low-level video, the swiveling LCD is an obvious boon, and if you're a fan of filming your rollercoaster escapades, the handle (read: exposed rim) will certainly come in handy. Outside of that, though, we found no compelling reason to handle this thing unlike any other point-and-shoot. Compounding the problem is the fact that the entire rim is slick as glass, so you're taking quite the risk by holding the device in a closed fashion.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" height="266" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107303" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-lens.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></div>We also found the inability to zoom (optically, anyway) to be a huge downer. Sure, there's a digital zoom, but considering that you aren't a fan of heavily pixelated images, you might as well consider the EX-TR100 to be zoomless. <br /><h5><br />Software and user experience</h5>The user interface that Casio has loaded onto the Tryx is certainly sufficient. It's intuitive enough to navigate sans a trip through the dreaded user guide, and changing between modes rarely required more than two or three taps on the panel. Thankfully, the touchscreen is superbly responsive, and we never once had an issue with the camera recognizing our commands. We still prefer manual control dials and physical buttons when it comes to navigating through camera menus, but Casio does an admirable job of creating a touch-based UI that simply works.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" height="300" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107307" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/nothing-arizona-casio-tryx.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></div>As is common on point-and-shoots these days, the Tryx is home to quite a few shooting modes: Full Auto, Premium Auto, Best Shot, HDR Art, Slide Panorama and Motion Shutter (just to name a few). In our experience, Premium Auto seemed to render the best results for beginners who have no desire whatsoever to tinker with settings, while HDR Art was stunningly disastrous. If you're hoping to fiddle with ISO, aperture or any other number of manual settings, you're barking up the wrong tree. Impressively enough, the screen automatically rotates as you spin it around, and there's next to no lag in the changeovers. Also interesting is the fact that any video started while the camera is positioned in a vertical manner will result in a vertical video. Shocking, we know, but gnarly nonetheless. (Given just awkward it is to embed such a tall video, we'll point you to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDmJBzlO6Xk">the YouTube sample here</a> for external viewing.) Below, you'll find a few videos shot in NYC -- two in the day, one in a dimly lit eatery.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="250" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NMHiSeqK78o" width="450"></iframe></center> <br />While we're on the topic, it's worth pointing out that this camera is capable of logging clips at 1080p, which is -- in our humble opinion -- the single most understated standout feature of the Tryx. A video can be started by tapping a small red record button in the lower right corner of the LCD, and we had no stuttering issues whatsoever using an off-the-shelf SDHC card. Unfortunately, it's impossible to start a video while shooting in panorama mode -- you'll need to switch into a standard automatic mode first, which seems like a ridiculous and unnecessary complication given just how terrific the panoramic mode truly is. In other words, we found ourselves glued to the panorama mode, but had to switch back and forth just to start videos.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107306" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-panorama.jpg" vspace="4" /></div>Snapping photos was easy enough, but the sliver-of-a-shutter-button won't be pleasing to all. That said, we're thrilled to have a physical button given the dearth of other keys, so we aren't going to harp too boisterously on that point. Casio goes out of its way to keep things dead-simple from a photo snapping standpoint, and we have to confess -- the Tryx does an admirable job of capturing the moment in broad daylight. It automatically flops over to Macro mode if it senses that you're too tight on a subject, and it did a laudable job of capturing hues and tone on challenging scenery at some of America's most stunning National Parks. Are we talking DSLR-quality? Hardly, but remember that the MSRP on this is but $250, and it's already selling for $229 at a smattering of reputable e-tailers.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107308" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/petrified-forest-casio-tryx.jpg" vspace="4" /></div>The panorama mode, however, deserves a round of golf claps all its own. We adored the feature on the company's <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/20/casio-debuts-exilim-ex-h20g-with-hybrid-gps-and-ex-z16-point-a/">Exilim EX-H20G</a>, and we found it even easier to use on this guy. The results are nothing short of spectacular, and the automatic stitching job is downright impressive. <br /><h5><br />Image quality</h5>The 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor does predictably well in broad daylight. Colors were generally sharp and crisp, and for a sub-$250 point-and-shoot, we really had no qualms with our results. Once the light starts fading, however, it has a difficult time snapping a usable image free of blur. Expected, sure, but having full manual control access would've come in handy here. Considering that there's no optical zoom, you'll be forced to move forward and back to change what's in the frame. It's pretty obvious that still images aren't this camera's forte, but it certainly does a better job with 'em while also handling 1080p video than any of Flip Video's (now-defunct) camcorders ever did. Have a gander in the gallery below to get a feel for the image quality -- just so you know, these are completely untouched aside from a resize.<br /><div class="article_gallery"><div class="gallery_info"><span class="gallery_title">Casio Tryx sample shots</span></div><div class="gallery_img_holder"><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107250" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-sample-shots/#4107250" rel="casio-tryx-sample-shots" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/petrified-forest-np-g0031_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107251" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-sample-shots/#4107251" rel="casio-tryx-sample-shots" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/petrified-forest-np-g0030_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107252" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-sample-shots/#4107252" rel="casio-tryx-sample-shots" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/petrified-forest-np-g0029_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107253" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-sample-shots/#4107253" rel="casio-tryx-sample-shots" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/petrified-forest-np-g0026_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"><a class="4107254" href="http://www.engadget.com/photos/casio-tryx-sample-shots/#4107254" rel="casio-tryx-sample-shots" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/petrified-forest-np-g0024_103x88.jpg" /></a></div></div></div><h5><br />Battery life</h5>You're probably wondering why an atypical point-and-shoot deserves a battery section, so we'll just cut to the chase: the longevity of the Tryx is startlingly poor. 50 still images and 20 minutes of capturing 1080p footage had our review unit hanging on for dear life, and we aren't confident that a full charge is capable of lasting through a solid hour of filming. That may be forgivable if a few other things were true, but they aren't.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" height="266" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107301" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-battery-low.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></div>Those "other things" include a removable battery and a conventional micro-USB port. For whatever reason, Casio decided to completely encase the Li-ion here, making it impossible to access, remove or replace. We couldn't rely on this guy to carry us through the daytime hours at a National Park, which led to us carry yet another camera as a backup -- there goes the advantage of being mobile, eh? To make matters worse, Casio threw a proprietary USB charging port on here, which makes absolutely zero sense to us.<br /><br />What's so irritating about this decision isn't the requirement to carry around yet another cable in your pack; it's that Casio came <i>so close</i> to including a feature that we'd love to see on every single point-and-shoot from here on out. Had this camera been able to recharge via a standard micro-USB port (you know, like your Android smartphone, PND, portable media player, and 14 other gadgets you've got sitting around), it would have instantly become one of the most stress-free charging experiences to ever hit the P&S world. As it stands, we're flabbergasted with the design choice to select something other than a standard port -- there may be an awesome reason from an engineering standpoint, but if we can charge a Nexus One and a <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/04/columbia-omni-heat-circuit-breaker-softshell-electric-heated-j/">Columbia heated jacket</a> through the aforesaid port, why not this?<br /><br /><i><b>Update: </b>Casio reported 50 still shots with just over an hour of Full HD video, but it's hard to say how much time they spent simply toting the camera around with the LCD on -- you know, as a real-world user would. As always, battery life is full of YMMV, but now you've got an ideal look at what you could possibly squeeze out, too. </i> <br /><h5><br />Wrap-up</h5>Casio's Tryx (EX-TR100) is far and away the most interestingly designed point-and-shoot that we've seen in years, but the compromises made to end up with a needlessly unique design continues to haunt it. The only logical benefit to the swivel-based form factor is to assist with low-level video shooting, and while the 1080p content that it logs is admittedly impressive, the paltry battery life means that you won't be shooting that way for long. If you're looking for a so-called Flip substitute now that Cisco's consumer dream has died, this would be an amazing option for $229... if it'd last for more than a couple of hours. We'd also have a far greater sense of appreciation for the design decisions if this were rechargeable via a traditional micro-USB cable, but alas, we're left with an even inferior solution: a proprietary cable <i>and</i> the inability to insert a secondary battery.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="1" height="266" hspace="4" id="vimage_4107304" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-tryx-stance.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></div>There's no question that the Tryx is snappy, produces reasonably great images in daylight and handles Full HD video like a champ, but until a version ships with a far more robust battery and an optical zoom, it's tough to recommend without reservations. <br /><div class="post_footer_left"><table class="spanks"><tbody><tr><td valign="bottom"><div class="post_via "></div><br /></td><td valign="bottom"><div class="post_via "></div><br /></td><td valign="bottom"><div class="post_via "></div><br /></td><td valign="bottom"><div class="post_via "></div><br /></td><td valign="bottom"><div class="post_via "></div><br /></td><td valign="bottom"><div class="post_via "></div><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><br />source:<a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/casio-tryx-ex-tr100-review" target="_blank">engadget.com</a>

Casio Tryx (EX-TR100)

Given the sheer quantity of marketing muscle that Casio put behind the Tryx, you'd think the company was gearing up to rival Nikon and ...

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Casio TRYX Earns Guinness World Records Accolade

<a href="http://www.imaging-resource.com/NPICS1/TRYX_3_L.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://www.imaging-resource.com/NPICS1/TRYX_3_L.JPG" width="320" /></a>Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., proudly announce that TRYX™ has been named the “World’s Most Adjustable Digital Camera” by Guinness World Records. The 12.1 megapixel camera, which appears in the 2012 edition of the legendary reference book, can capture images from virtually any angle and can be adapted to fit a user’s preferred shooting style. The frame rotates 360-degrees and can be adjusted so that the body acts as a tripod, allowing TRYX to stand on its own. Simultaneously, the LCD screen can be rotated up to 270-degrees so that users can perfect their own self portrait and see themselves in the frame. With TRYX, consumers can do more and be prepared to capture their photographic lives in ways they were never able to before. <br />“We’re honored to have TRYX included among such a celebrated collection of world records,” said Toshi Iguchi, Senior General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Casio America, Inc. “Guinness World Records is an iconic brand that for decades has been synonymous with pushing the boundaries of human achievement, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it with a product that has redefined the digital imaging category.”<br />The 3-inch touch-screen LCD on TRYX is swivel-mounted inside a frame, on which the camera’s ultra-wide-angle lens and flash are affixed. As such, users can even flip out and rotate the body so that the camera can hang from a hook, doorknob or other surface. TRYX’s body can also be adjusted so that users can record full-HD, 1080 video (30fps) using either a left- or right-handed grip. <br />TRYX is also fully-loaded with a full range of fun and creative functions, such as Slide Panorama, slow-motion video recording and Casio’s revolutionary HDR-Art technology, which gives users the ability to effortlessly transform any photo from ordinary to extraordinary, all with just the touch of a button. HDR-Art works by combining continuous shots with differing exposures and performing highly-precise image analysis to locally change the contrast and level of color saturation. Users can select from three different processing levels to suit their artistic tastes and produce results that are guaranteed to impress.<br />The TRYX appears in the Science and Engineering section of the Guinness World Records 2012 edition under the “Consumer Tech” category. This digital camera launched in North America in April 2011 and it retails for $249.99.<br /> 

Casio TRYX Earns Guinness World Records Accolade

Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., proudly announce that TRYX™ has been named the “World’s Most Adjustab...

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Casio G'zOne Commando

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/casio-gzone-commando-review/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="1" height="292" hspace="4" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando-lead.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></a></div>For years, construction workers, thrill-seekers, and everyone else unfettered by cubicle walls have had rubberized, rugged handsets to keep them company on the road. Until fairly recently, though, the price of durability has been settling for a <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/29/samsung-announces-rugged-xcover-handset-with-67-day-standby-time/">dumbphone</a>. And frankly, the selection of <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/18/motorola-defy-review/">toughened-up</a> smartphones remains pretty sparse today. <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/rugged-casio-gzone-commado-official-coming-to-verizon-on-april/">Casio's G'zOne Commando</a> ($199 on contract) isn't the first quasi-invincible Android device, but it <i>is </i>the first to be sold on Verizon's network. As expensive as a flagship handset, the Commando offers military-grade resilience against drops, water, extreme cold, and other elements. But is it capable enough for everything else? Let's find out.<br /><div class="article_gallery"><div class="gallery_info"><span class="gallery_title"><a href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-review/">Casio G'zOne Commando review</a></span></div><div class="gallery_img_holder"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134349" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-review/#4134349" rel="casio-gzone-commando-review" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando6327-1305379055_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134333" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-review/#4134333" rel="casio-gzone-commando-review" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando6032-1305378981_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134351" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-review/#4134351" rel="casio-gzone-commando-review" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando6340-1305379059_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134359" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-review/#4134359" rel="casio-gzone-commando-review" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando6370-1305379106_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134361" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-review/#4134361" rel="casio-gzone-commando-review" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando6372-1305379118_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div></div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><center> </center> <br /><h5>Hardware</h5><br />With a name like "Commando," would it really surprise you to learn this is one macho handset? Particularly compared to the <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/18/motorola-defy-review/">Motorola Defy</a>, a phone compact enough that you could mistake it for a garden-variety Android device, the Commando has an aggressively industrial aesthetic that combines rubberized surfaces, red accents, and loads of exposed screws. And yet, for such a tough device, there's something oddly toy-like about it. That's mostly because its sides are lined in plastic -- a material that also makes this handset lighter than you'd expect.<br /><br />In part, though, it's the small screen that makes the Commando look like a less-than-serious phone. Given its heft (5.1 x 2.6 x 0.6 inches), it's hard not to feel that Casio squandered some precious space. For a phone this imposing, the capacitive screen is surprisingly modest at 3.6 inches, and it's more cumbersome to hold than, say, <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/05/samsung-infuse-4g-hands-on/">Samsung's Infuse 4G</a>, which boasts a whopping 4.5-inch display. Next to our <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/30/motorola-droid-review/">Motorola Droid's</a> screen, the Commando's 480 x 800 screen is brighter and more vibrant, though at times the touchscreen -- encased in 1-mm-thick <a href="http://www.engadget.com/tag/GorillaGlass/">Gorilla Glass</a> -- can be vexing to use. After about a week of testing, we realized that we had subtly adapted our behavior, and learned to apply extra pressure while swiping and tapping objects. As it turns out, without that extra pressure you'll have some irritating (and fairly frequent) moments where you flick the screen and nothing happens.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/casio-gzone-commando-review/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="1" height="213" hspace="4" id="vimage_4125177" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando-flip-out-menu.jpg" vspace="4" width="320" /></a></div><br />Taking a tour around the body, you'll find a covered 3.5mm headphone jack and a MicroUSB port, along with a volume rocker, programmable key, camera launcher, and power button. The port covers are easy to lift, particularly if you can wedge a fingernail under there. And though they stay put, these details, too, also make the phone feel deceptively less solid than it is. Removing the back cover, is also easy: just flip a lever to the unlock position and scrape the lid off. To re-secure it, just press the seven dots printed on the battery cover and slide the lever back into the lock position. Pressing those spots and hearing the lid make a satisfying click is one of the high points in the user experience, at least where tactility is concerned.<br /><br />Although sound from the two front-facing speakers was loud, phone calls sounded weak on our end. Ironically, we had a difficult time hearing our callers while chatting outdoors. Even when we retreated inside, though, we still had to crank the volume to make out what our friends were saying. But while the call quality isn't exactly befitting of an outdoorsy phone, the 1460mAH battery is well-suited to the challenge of lasting through a day in the rough. The phone's rated for 7.5 hours of use, and actually, we still had juice to spare after a full business day of obsessively checking email and Twitter, looking up directions in Google Maps, and playing <i>Angry Birds</i> during our commute and long wait at the doctor's office. If you were already in the market for a durable phone, this is the single best reason to consider the Commando. Sure, the Defy has stellar longevity, too, but with the Commando you won't have to wait long to start using it after you start recharging your dead battery.<br /><br /><h5>Ruggedness</h5><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/casio-gzone-commando-review/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="1" height="312" hspace="4" id="vimage_4125179" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando-aerial-water-1305126369.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></a></div>The Commando meets the military's 801G specifications for water, dust, shock, salt fog, vibration, solar radiation, and temperature extremes. If you were expecting to see a stunt video of us running the phone over with a cement truck, well, we hate to disappoint you, but the phone's durability is more appropriate for protecting it from mundane clumsiness. As an 810G-certified handset, the Commando can survive immersion in meter-deep (3.3-foot) water for up to 30 minutes, a series of 26 four-foot drops, and temperatures between -25 and 85 degrees Celcius (-13 to 185 degrees Farenheit).<br /><br />In short, it works as advertised. The phone's performance remained unchanged after we left it in our freezer for half an hour and left it submerged in water for the same period of time. And though we stopped short of throwing it out of our fifth-floor office window, we weren't able to scratch the display during our week with it.<br /><br /><h5>Software</h5>The Commando runs Android 2.2. (Froyo), though out of the box, at least, it feels like a crippled version of the OS. Verizon made Bing the default search engine, though you can always add a Google search widget to one of the five home screens (and, you know, trash the Bing one if you so choose). It also replaced the stock Gmail app with a proprietary mail application that syncs with Gmail accounts, along with Yahoo Mail, Hotmail, AOL, Exchange, and Verizon.net addresses. That variety's nice, but the app just isn't as well designed as the standard one -- it doesn't group messages in conversations, and you have to press a soft key to get to any reply or forwarding options.<br /><br />Fortunately, you can add your Google account through Android Market, at which point the phone will download the Gmail and YouTube apps, as well as copy the contact list from any previous Android handset you've owned. Alas, Google Maps doesn't come preinstalled, and you'll have to download it manually.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/casio-gzone-commando-review/"><img border="1" hspace="4" id="vimage_4125161" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/casio-commando-keyboard.jpg" vspace="4" /></a></div><br />One thing you can't recover is the stock Android keyboard. Unlike other Android handsets, which list it as an option even if <a href="http://www.engadget.com/tag/Swype/">Swype</a> or another third-party option is the default, the Commando gives you one choice: the XT9 / <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/24/t9-trace-lets-you-swype-through-your-text-messages/">T9 Trace</a>. Fortunately, it's a pretty darn good one. Essentially, it does the same thing as Swype, letting you trace out the word on the virtual keyboard without taking your finger off. (Of course, you can peck at each letter, too, which works smoothly.) The traceable keyboard is accurate, though be warned that there is a learning curve. You have to be precise about where you put your finger, and make sure you linger on a letter before gliding on to the next. As with Swype though, the word prediction isn't all that smart. For instance, in the photo above you can see that when we typed "helo" by mistake, "hello" wasn't among the top suggestions. Similarly, if you get the first letter of a word wrong (say, "b" instead of "v"), spellcheck won't offer words starting with "v," even if you spell the rest of the word correctly. With this keyboard, at least, the suggestions are listed in a horizontal panel sitting just above the keyboard -- a much less intrusive approach than Swype's predictive spelling, which pops up in the center of the screen.<br /><br />The Commando also takes liberties with the home screen (the default of five, that is), adding a flip-out menu of shortcuts for contacts, email, messaging, voice control, and the calendar app. To be honest, we didn't find much use for this, since we're fans of loading our primary home screen with shortcuts for the apps we use the most.<br /><br />Being a rugged phone and all, Casio also bundled a handful of home-brewed apps geared toward outdoorsy type, including a compass, pedometer, star gazer, runner's training companion, thermometer, so-called Trip Memory, sunrise / sunset tracker, and another that keeps tabs on the tides. Although you can install widgets for these, you can also find them inside the main G'zgear app. Of the bunch, the only one we found ourselves using repeatedly was the thermometer, which reports both city and room temperatures. All in all, the suite is gimmicky in the way <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/17/puma-phone-hands-on/">Puma phone</a> was, but at least it's easy to ignore these extraneous applications if you're so inclined.<br /><br />More egregiously, Verizon also bundled its share of apps you didn't ask for, with a bloatware list that includes City ID, Guided Tours, InnoPath Active Care, Verizon's mobile IM app, My Verizon Mobile, NFL Mobile, VZ Navigator, and a quartet of V Cast applications (music, tones, videos, and a store).<br /><br /><h5>Camera</h5><br />The ironic thing about the Commando's 5 megapixel camera is that the only way to get decent shots is to call a time-out in your active lifestyle. It's not enough to stop walking and try your darndest to keep your hands still -- you also have to stay frozen for a few seconds after you tap the shutter button. In the case of the below photo, for instance, we paused briefly to snap some foliage, and continued on our merry way. Only later did we realize we hadn't lingered long enough to get a clean shot of the greenery.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/casio-gzone-commando-review/"><img border="1" height="300" hspace="4" id="vimage_4119766" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/commando-foliage.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></a></div><br />Occasionally, when we concentrated hard enough, we walked away with a crisp picture.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/casio-gzone-commando-review/"><img border="1" height="300" hspace="4" id="vimage_4119610" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/05/commando-open.jpg" vspace="4" width="400" /></a></div><br />As for quality, the color reproduction is fairly accurate, though the camera still stumbles in a wide range of shooting scenarios, from harsh backlighting to close-up photography. Meanwhile, our video looks like a stop-motion movie, with people and cars chugging along at a far more sluggish speed than in real life.<br /><div class="article_gallery"><div class="gallery_info"><span class="gallery_title"><a href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-test-shots/">Casio G'zOne Commando test shots</a></span></div><div class="gallery_img_holder"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134316" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-test-shots/#4134316" rel="casio-gzone-commando-test-shots" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/img20110508185918-1305378681_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134317" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-test-shots/#4134317" rel="casio-gzone-commando-test-shots" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/img20110508190039-1305378684_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134318" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-test-shots/#4134318" rel="casio-gzone-commando-test-shots" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/img20110508190054-1305378688_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134319" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-test-shots/#4134319" rel="casio-gzone-commando-test-shots" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/img20110508190121-1305378692_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a class="4134320" href="http://mobile.engadget.com/photos/casio-gzone-commando-test-shots/#4134320" rel="casio-gzone-commando-test-shots" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title=""><img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/mobile.engadget.com/media/2011/05/img20110508190135-1305378696_103x88.jpg" /></a></div><div class="gallery_img"></div></div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><center> </center> <br /><h5>Wrap-up</h5><br />Casio's G'zOne Commando earns its stripes with its brawny design, which resists scratches, falls, spills, and stints in the freezer as promised. But what it boasts in battery life and sheer fortitude, it lacks in call quality, core Google apps, and a responsive touch experience. In a sense, we can't knock the slightly poky display <i>too </i>much. The Commando is a fine, if not good, phone for what it is. After all, if you're buying this, it's because you crave durability first, and not because you're a benchmark junkie. Still, we'd be remiss if we didn't point out that the Motorola Defy also offers impressive battery life -- along with a more discreet design (and, to be fair... <a href="http://www.engadget.com/tag/Motoblur/">Motoblur</a>). If you can tolerate -- or even learn to love -- the Commando's cheesy <i>man's man</i> design and are willing to download core Google apps manually, you shouldn't get too hung up on the rest of those niggles in our cons list.<br /><br /><br /><br />source:<a href="http://www.engadget.com/" target="_blank">engadget.com</a>

Casio G'zOne Commando

For years, construction workers, thrill-seekers, and everyone else unfettered by cubicle walls have had rubberized, rugged handsets to keep...

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