IDC Communications Blog

Join the IDC team!

2011-05-18T14:22:00.002-05:00

IDC Communications, Manitoba’s largest communications retailer specializing in wireless communication solutions for the consumer and business markets, has an exciting opportunity for an Inventory Assistant at our Head Office location. Reporting to the Inventory Manager, the successful candidate must be comfortable working in a warehouse environment and will be accountable for:

Assistance in the Shipping & Receiving department
Floor management duties such as re-arranging and re-stocking shelves, rotation of stock, semi-annual inventory count and maintenance
Various administrative and warehouse duties (cleaning, garbage clean-up, box removal etc).

The candidate will possess:

Must be able to lift heavy objects (50-75 lbs)
High level of organization
Strong computer skills including the Microsoft Office suite of programs
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Great attention to detail
Fast learner in a fast paced organization

*** Experience in warehouse management is an asset!

All interested applicants are invited to apply with submission of a resume to elizabeth.daluz@idccomm.mb.caWe thank all interested applicants; however, only qualified candidates will be contacted.

BlackBerry Playbook - Pre-Order Today!

2011-04-11T10:57:00.000-05:00

We are now taking pre-order names for the BlackBerry Playbook. Get on the list today!

IDC BlackBerry Playbook Pre-Order List

Join the fight!

2011-03-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

We would like to extend our greatest sympathies to Joe Aiello and his family for the loss of his wife Alanna Hogue Aiello. Please help Joe and all his friends at 92 CITI FM today by requesting a song for Alanna. 100% of all song request donations will go to help the fight against cancer. You can also donate in Alanna's memory at CancerCare Manitoba:https://www.cancercarefdn.mb.ca/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?pid=793

RIM buys Swedish firm to improve screen design

2010-12-03T09:29:00.000-06:00

(Reuters) - Research In Motion has bought Swedish design company The Astonishing Tribe (TAT) as the BlackBerry maker seeks to enhance the look and functionality of its screens ahead of the launch of its PlayBook tablet.

more...

Just Announced! Exclusive offer from rural MTS Connect locations.

2010-11-03T15:43:00.000-05:00

For a limited time you can get selected wireless devices for $0 on a 2 year contract! That is a savings of up to $99. Choose from devices like the BlackBerry Curve for $0 on only a 2 year contract. This offer is available only at rural MTS Connect locations. Conditions apply. See store for details.

Singing in the car

2010-09-24T09:40:00.000-05:00

Does your car have built-in Bluetooth?
Try playing music from your BlackBerry through your car speakers. Most vehicles with built-in Bluetooth will also let you control the media player on your BlackBerry with the vehicles music controls. Pop-in a 8, 16 or 32GB micro SD card and store hundreds of songs. Got a long drive ahead of you? Try loading up on podcasts for a change of pace.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2010-08-31T11:17:00.000-05:00

NFL Season is just around the corner and you can catch all the action with NFL Sunday Ticket & MTS Ultimate TV.

Follow your favourite team and get every game, every Sunday afternoon! With NFL Sunday Ticket, you can watch up to 14 NFL games each Sunday throughout the 17-week regular season. NFL Sunday Ticket is broadcast in stunning High Definition with select games in Standard Definition (SD) format. Because real fans get NFL Sunday Ticket on MTS Ultimate TV!

More info on NFL Sunday Ticket here

Lost or Stolen Smartphone??

2010-08-20T09:40:00.000-05:00

If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, here's what you should do:

Immediately contact your carrier and tell them to turn off your phone so you're not responsible for charges.
Contact the police to file a report on the theft.
If your device has GPS tracking service, the police, working with your carrier, may be able to locate it.**

**While losing your wireless device is certainly an important issue for you, other demands on law enforcement resources may limit their ability to assist in the recovery of your device.

Here are the wireless industry's tips to prevent your device from being lost or stolen:

Know and use the security features on your device (e.g. password locks).
Use the personalization feature and put your name and a different phone number (and/or email address) so if someone finds your device, they can contact you to return it.
Keep a back-up of your contacts, calendar, etc somewhere else (e.g. computer).
Never leave your device so that it can be easily picked up and don't give your device to a person you don't know.
If you are a person who has a tendency to lose things, you may want to consider mobile device insurance. Make sure you know what the insurance plan does and does not cover.

In addition, there are some apps available that may help you find your phone if it is lost or stolen.

It's Here: The Blackberry Bold 9650

2010-08-18T17:35:00.000-05:00

The Blackberry Bold 9650

This is the RIM device many of you have been talking about. The wait is now over!

With an optical trackpad, Wi-Fi, international roaming capabilities and an impressive 512 MB of on-board memory, you'll have plenty of reasons to brag.

It's available now on the MTS network for $149.99 on a 36 month contract... For detailed hardware information on Blackberry's website, you can click here. And for further network info you can click here to go directly to the MTS website.

How familiar are you with the Blackberry Bold 9650? Are there any questions you have that our qualified sales consultants can assist you with? Just leave a comment below.

And if you do leave a valid comment relating to the Bold 9650 on this post, you'll be entered into a random draw for a $40 dollar IDC gift certificate. You may just want to mention about some of the cool features. That’s OK too!

So don't be shy. We'd love to hear from you.

(Unfortunately this random draw is not available to any IDC staff... Sorry guys.)

"Drop" in and you could win the new BlueAnt S4

2010-07-29T16:03:00.001-05:00

Check out the Easter Seals Drop Zone, August 19th and you could win the new BlueAnt S4 Bluetooth Speakerphone. In support of SMD Foundation/Easter Seals™ Manitoba, 102 brave anddedicated “Superheroes” from Manitoba businesses, media and the surrounding community will scale(rappel) 17 storeys down the side of the Royal Bank Building (220 Portage Ave) on August 19th, 2010for the 6th annual Easter Seals™ Drop Zone.

IDC is the official communications sponsor and will be there to giveaway some great stuff.

Product Launch - BlackBerry Storm2

2010-07-09T13:25:00.001-05:00

Introducing the NEW, BlackBerry Storm2 Smartphone.

The new Storm has all of the same great features as it's predecessor, with the addition of Wi-Fi!
Now you can utilize the fast speeds of Wi-Fi wherever a network is available to you.
Other new features include a 2GB on-board memory, which is double the original, as well a doubled flash memory, now 256MB.

Storm2 also features next generation SurePress technology, enabling you to access photos, videos, web and more, with the swipe of a finger.

Storm2 launches today on the MTS network and is $199 on a 36-month plan.

Check out more on the BlackBerry Storm2 at BlackBerry's website.

Bluetooth Buying Tips

2010-06-22T13:48:00.000-05:00

Hands-Free Law Announced Update

2010-06-18T07:52:00.004-05:00

A news release by the Government of Manitoba yesterday states that the hands-free law will commence July 15th.

June 17th News Release:
"Drivers caught texting or using hand-held cellphones could face a fine of almost $200 under a new law that takes effect July 15 under amendments to the Highway Traffic Act, Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Steve Ashton announced today."

With that being said, the Provincial Government's website still does not show a proclamation date for the law.

*Updated - The law has now been proclaimed on website*

Here and here.

We'll keep you posted.

MTS Launches FREE Wireless Offer!

2010-04-01T15:32:00.010-05:00

Great news from MTS!
"As a part of our ongoing commitment to offer customers in Manitoba competitive pricing along with innovative bundle offerings, MTS is introducing a new and exciting bundle offer for our four (4) service MTS customers. Effective April 1st, 2010, MTS will offer a Free Wireless Calling Plan to all customers who have MTS Home Phone, MTS TV and MTS High Speed Internet services."

Here's how it works:
Winnipeg customers who subscribe to MTS Home Phone, MTS TV and High Speed Internet service will be given a monthly wireless bill credit valued at $28.50, which will offset the cost of their $24.99 wireless calling plan and associated $3.50 Wireless Network Charge.
Already have an MTS Cellular Plan? No Worries... You can still take advantage of the offer. Existing MTS Wireless customers with less than 12 months remaining on their current wireless contract will be eligible for an early upgrade.
Existing MTS Wireless customers with more than 12 months remaining on their current wireless contract will be required to do a 12 month contract extension to a maximum of 36 months.

If you already have an MTS Cellular plan, this would be an ideal time to add Internet, MTS TV service or home phone in order to get the wireless credit.
For further information and all the details associated with this limited time offer, check out the MTS website here.

NEW Product Launch - BlackBerry Curve 8530

2010-03-16T11:20:00.024-05:00

The BlackBerry® Curve 8530 has just launched on the MTS Cellular Network. With improved styling and a host of new features, the BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone is designed to provide customers with an approachable, entry-point smartphone.

Here is a look at what's new....

Improved styling and mechanics
Soft, rounded edges with a slim and sleek design (109x60x13.88mm)

Trackpad interface
Helps you easily scroll through the information you need, with an experience similar to the trackpad on a laptop computer.

Wi-Fi® with simultaneous voice & data
- Access wireless home networks and public hotspots
- Enabled with 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi technology
- Supports an incredible media streaming experience
- Simultaneous voice and data support in Wi-Fi areas

GPS
Features built-in GPS capabilities. Designed to work with BlackBerry® Maps and other location-based software

New external multimedia controls
Allows for quick and easy access to media player and control of music playlists, even while using other applications

Faster Processor (same as Storm, Tour)
More than two times more memory (256 MB)
BlackBerry Device software 5.0
Improved microSD card access (hot swappable)
.... and more.

Visit the BlackBerry's website for more detailed specs here.
To get your hands on one for a closer look, visit on of our locations.

New MTS Connect store to open!

2010-03-12T13:11:00.002-06:00

IDC Communications will be opening a new MTS Connect store! The exact location of the new store has yet to be determined, but it will be in the Portage Avenue West area. MTS Connect stores offer its customers a full suite of MTS products and services. Everything from Cellular phones and Data Devices to High Definition TV service.

We will keep you posted on news and developments regarding location and estimated grand opening dates.

RIM introduces BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express – and it's FREE!

2010-03-08T16:26:00.008-06:00

BlackBerry® Enterprise Server Express is a new product that offers a low cost solution for businesses of any size, with an existing Microsoft® Exchange or Microsoft Small Business Server, to quickly and easily get started with the BlackBerry® solution. It provides advanced BlackBerry Smartphone business features with no additional per user or software fees. Plus is runs on any Internet-enabled BlackBerry data plan.

Here are some quick points on BES Express:

Free Server Software and free CALS
Supports up to 2000 users/can stack multiply servers for more user capability
Supports up to 75 users if installed on an existing Exchange server
Will work on Exchange 2003,2007,2010/windows small business server 2003,2008
35+ IT policies
Doesn’t support MVS (mobile extension)
Will eventually replace BlackBerry Professional Server
Do not need an Enterprise rate plan, will work with a BIS rate plan

Here's what you can do as an end-user:

Flag for follow up - Flagging email messages for follow up is a great way to help users spot the ones they’re looking for when they need them. Apply different colors, assign due dates, set reminders and more.1

Remote email search

Users can search for emails that are no longer stored on their smartphone without returning to their desk.

Set up out-of-office reply

Out-of-office notifications are updated easily from users’ BlackBerry smartphones.

HTML email

View emails with embedded HTML, including images, page layout, and text formatting.

Sync email status

Reading an email on your BlackBerry® smartphone marks it as “read” on desktop as well. Deleting an email can optionally be reflected on the desktop.

Mail folder management

BlackBerry smartphone users can add, remove or rename folders right from their smartphone. Changes made on the BlackBerry smartphone will automatically be updated on the mail server.

View email folders

View custom email folders created on the desktop. View emails moved into folders by custom email filters setup through desktop.

Free/busy lookup

Users can look at their colleagues’ availability and choose a meeting time that works for everyone.

Forward appointments

Users can simply forward a calendar entry from the email message list or directly from the calendar.

View and forward Calendar Attachments

Just as they would from an email message, users can open some of the most popular document and graphic attachments from calendar entries.

Contact sync

Contact information on users’ BlackBerry smartphones automatically stays up-to-date with the information on their computers.

Address lookup

Users can look up colleagues in the corporate address book from their smartphone.

Synchronization of multiple contact folders

Users can synchronize multiple contact folders, personal distribution lists and public/shared folders to their smartphone.

Remote File Access

Users can find local and remote files, and open, view, save, or email JPEG, Adobe® PDF, Microsoft® Word, Microsoft® Excel® and Microsoft® PowerPoint® files directly from their BlackBerry® smartphone.

Ability to download, edit, save and attach documents

Users can edit and save changes to Microsoft® Word and Microsoft® PowerPoint® files, then send them as email attachments to colleagues and customers while on the go.

Native file attachments

Users can download and save full-size email attachments in their native file formats

For more information and to check out the other goodies available with BlackBerry BES Express, check out the page here.

MTS Expands Data Coverage to Alberta & B.C.

2010-02-09T13:01:00.007-06:00

MTS has announced improved CDMA wireless data coverage in Alberta & B.C.

This enhanced coverage provides MTS customers with 3G wireless data speed in major centers like Victoria, Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton and additional wireless data access throughout rural Alberta and British Columbia where CDMA wireless coverage is in place.

MTS customers will now be able to download applications, browse the Internet, and access emails at 3G speeds in the major centers as well places like Whistler, Kelowna, Jasper, and Banff.

For more information and for more detailed coverage maps click here

Don't miss any Olympic action!

2010-02-08T13:19:00.004-06:00

Don't miss any of this year's Olympic action! Today, MTS is introducing Winter Sports Picks to all MTS Ultimate TV subscribers. The new Winter Sports Picks feature ensures you won't miss a minute of action during the Olympics. This new feature is available free throughout the Olympics until March 15th, 2010.
Winter Sports Picks allows you to watch one program in the main viewing area while keeping an eye on up to 3 other sporting events at the same time!

Here's how to use the feature:
1. Tune to either channel 2010 or 2011.
2. Press OK to start Winter Sports Picks or Winter Sports Picks Multicultural.
3. Use the UP or DOWN ARROW button to preview available channels.
4. Press OK to move to the Picture-In-Picture selection to the main viewing area.
5. Press EXIT to leave the application and view full screen.

You can still record channels from the feature, so you can catch all the Olympic action your hard drive can handle.

The Bluetooth Buzz - Go hands-free

2010-02-05T15:05:00.013-06:00

As Spring approaches, so does the new law to ban the use of cellular devices while driving. Being in your vehicle with your phone does not mean you cannot be in-touch, productive and safe. A full episode on the Oprah show was dedicated to informing people of the dangers of driving while texting and talking. Have a look at the episode here.

Here is an overview of some of the hands-free apps and devices available from IDC.

Bluetooth Headsets
Today's Bluetooth headsets are smaller and more stylish. Like most technologies, manufacturers have found a way to make them smaller, better and cheaper. With a wide range of price points out there, it helps to know some of the features to look for when choosing the right headset for you.

Voice activated dialing - for true hands-free operation
Noise cancellation - reduces wind and ambient noise interference
Automated volume adjustment
Multipoint pairing - for use with multiple phones
Battery Life - for longer talk times
Adjustability - for personal comfort

Bluetooth In-Car Speakerphones
If you spend a lot of time on the road, you may want to consider a portable speakerphone. In-car devices can blend seamlessly into your vehicle and range from clip-on visor speakers to steering wheel or mirror mounted units that display names and numbers. Some units have FM transmitters that will allow you to hear your conversations through your cars speakers. If you store music on your mobile device, you can also use the FM transmitter to play music through your car speakers.

Bluetooth - Fixed Install Kits
Fixed install kits provide seamless integration of hands-free products with your vehicle. Some of the benefits of having a professionally install kits are :

Direct connection to vehicle sound system
Connects to vehicle battery - no recharging necessary
Dashboard controls
Cradles that hold & charge your phone

In addition to conventional telephony functions - pick up, hang up, dual calls - other features are available such as: automatic phonebook synchronisation, training-free multi-speaker voice recognition, speech synthesis of the names in the phonebook, contact management (up to 2 000 per phone), call records, and more.

Hands-Free Email & Text Messaging

FREE Hands-Free App for your BlackBerry!
DriveSafe.ly is a mobile application that reads text (SMS) messages and emails aloud in real time and automatically responds without drivers touching the mobile phone. DriveSafe.ly is the solution to texting while driving.

• Eliminates texting while driving and reading emails while driving
• Reads text message shorthand (lol, brb)
• Optional customizable auto-responder
• Lightweight app doesn't slow down phone or drain battery
• One-touch activation - no complicated setup

Get the app here

iLane - For the on-the-road professional
Now you can open, listen to, and respond to email entirely hands-free simply by speaking aloud.

iLane verbally notifies you when new emails arrive on your smartphone using pleasant, conversational words like, "Good Morning John, you have 18 new emails."

Wish to respond to an email? Simply say "Reply" and compose your response via iLane VoiceNote by speaking aloud. iLane hears you, and your message is sent to the recipient from your smartphone. You can even review your calendar.

Watch the demo here

Confused?
Check out this Bluetooth buying tips article from PCWorld.

Wi-Fi is FREE in 2010!

2010-02-01T14:02:00.010-06:00

Being an MTS Business or Consumer High Speed Internet customer just got better!

MTS Internet customers will have FREE unlimited Wi-Fi access at all MTS Wi-Fi Hotspots until December 31, 2010!

What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi enables you to access the Internet through wireless technology. MTS is taking your Internet access outside of your home and into public locations and businesses around Manitoba. All you need is a Wi-Fi enabled device, such as a laptop or PDA and an MTS High Speed Internet or MTS Wireless account.

Check out all the MTS Wi-Fi Hotspots here!

MTS Ultimate TV Service lives up to the name.

2009-11-30T10:21:00.021-06:00

MTS has hit a home run with the introduction of MTS Ultimate TV Service. With features like Whole-Home PVR and a wide selection of HD programming, MTS has positioned itself to be a major force in Winnipeg's television service market. Here are a few of the features...

Canada's First Whole Home PVR
• Allows you to watch Live and Recorded programming
from any TV in the home.
• Pause, Rewind and Fast-Forward Live broadcasting from your main TV
• Record up to 120 hours of Standard Definition
or up to 30 hours of High Definition programming
• Schedule the recording of a program or record the entire series

Interactive Programming Guide
• Displays up to 2 weeks of programming information
• Includes the program's Rating, Original Air Date and Synopsis
• Ability to remove channels or rearrange channels to your liking
• Create a "Favorites" guide
• Search programs and Movies on Demand by
Show Title, Movie Name, Actor or Director

HD Channel Lineup
• Over 45 channels of High Definition available
• Pick and choose from 5 different HD theme groups

Better yet, if you already have services like cellular, Internet or alarm service you can save on your monthly bill when you add TV service.

Ultimate TV is brand new, so you may not be able get the service - yet. Ultimate TV requires enhanced network features within each neighbourhood. MTS is enhancing the network daily and coverage is continually growing.

Here are some helpful links:
- For more detailed information or for pricing options
call us or visit one of our locations.
- More info can also be found at the MTS website here.
- To check if you can get the service yet, click here.
- Already have Ultimate TV? Get detailed info on using all the features here.

YouTube Now on your Smartphone!

2009-11-04T13:11:00.000-06:00

YouTube functionality is now working on your MTS BlackBerry Smartphone. To check it out just type m.youtube.com on your devices' browser to start watching videos.
Don't forget... streaming video is data intensive, so if you are not on an unlimited data plan, be aware.

What is that thing?

2009-10-30T10:31:00.004-05:00

So what is this mosaic-like puzzle?
It's a barcode created for the new BlackBerry® Messenger App. (a.k.a. BBM)

BlackBerry Messenger is an instant messaging application for BlackBerry Smartphones that lets users chat and send files instantly. One of the coolest features in version 5 is that each person has their own unique bar code. To add someone to your contact list, simply scan their bar code and BBM will automatically capture their information and enter the person into your contact list. Better yet, you can go to websites that will allow you to create your own bar code (QR code) and then link that code to a web address, message or a phone number.

People have already started making T-shirts with codes to launch Facebook, Twitter pages, etc. and yes, some already have QR code tattoos.

BlackkBerry Messenger features:
* Personalize BlackBerry Messenger with a display picture & profile
* Add friends by scanning barcodes or sharing PINs
* Share pictures, videos, voice notes and more with multiple contacts at once
* Create groups of friends, family or colleagues and instantly share calendars, lists, conversations and updates
* See what your friends are listening to by viewing their song titles
* Organize conversation lists by date
* Send and receive text messages
* Back up and restore your conversations & contact lists

You can download BlackBerry Messenger here.

Product Intro -iLane

2009-10-05T10:25:00.010-05:00

IDC has brought in a new product to help our customers drive safe. This new hands-free product is called iLane. iLane is an intelligent, portable device that lets you control your smartphone using simple voice commands when you're inside your vehicle. You can, of course, make and receive phone calls, but the best feature of iLane is that you can listen to your emails and even respond to email using your voice.

With the hands-free law coming into effect this June, iLane is a perfect choice for people that need constant access to email.

Here are some of the key features:

Hear verbal notification of incoming emails as they're received
Listen as your emails are read aloud to you
Compose new emails by speaking
Manage your inbox with simple voice commands like "Delete", "Call Back" and "Reply"
Access and control other smartphone applications like phone and calendar

PCWorld Magazine rated iLane in the top ten at RIM's WES2009. (Wireless Enterprise Symposium)

To check out iLane visit our main store at 1385 Niakwa Road or call 254-8282 for a demo.

Drive safe!

Recycle your phone!

2009-10-02T09:06:00.001-05:00

MTS has entered into an agreement with Greentec, an ISO certified electronic waste and recycling company located in Ontario which operates the Think Recycle program. Each of our locations will collect old and used cell phones and accessories, which Think Recycle will inspect and allocate as reusable or recyclable. All proceeds from reusable phones will be re-allocated and go directly to Resource Conservation Manitoba. Phones considered as recyclable will be ground down and recycled in an environmentally friendly manner.

You CAN recycle:
• Used cell phones
• A/C adaptors
• Headsets
• Chargers
• Batteries

You CANNOT recycle:
• Paper manuals
• Cell phone boxes
• Non electronic material
• Cell phone cases, charms, plastic containers

More information can be found at MTS' website here.

GO GREEN!

b-play - Games for your BlackBerry

2009-09-22T11:01:00.006-05:00

We all have those times where there is not much to do – waiting for a movie to start in the theatre, passenger on a long drive or even those boring conference calls. Now you can get great games for your BlackBerry! At www.bplay.com, you can download some of today's most popular games right to your BlackBerry device. EA Sports Tiger Woods and Madden Football, Monopoly, Call of Duty, Texas Hold 'em & many more! Games can range from $2.99 to $6.99 each. Now, keep in mind that these games are not Playstation Portable-quality graphics, but for $6.99, you can have some real fun whenever need something to do.

BlackBerry Tour Now Available!

2009-09-08T13:00:00.002-05:00

BlackBerry's newest Smartphone, the BlackBerry Tour, is now available to MTS wireless customers! It supports high-speed 3G EV-DO Rev. A networks in North America, as well as 3G UMTS/HSPA (2100Mhz) and quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM networks abroad.

The large, brilliant 2.44" 480x360 display and the 3.2 MP camera with flash, variable zoom, image stabilization, autofocus and video recording help make the BlackBerry Tour a multimedia powerhouse.

To learn more visit one of our locations or join us at Telecom2009, Friday Septemeber 9th from 9am to 3pm and try one out. Registration is still open.

Telecom 2009 - Sneak Peak

2009-09-02T13:38:00.000-05:00

One of the new products that will be launched into the Manitoba market at Telecom2009 will be the REDFLY Mobile Companion. The REDFLY Mobile Companion links to your Smartphone via Bluetooth and allows users to view their Smartphone on a larger screen and type long emails with a full keyboard. Browse the Internet, use your applications, access your calendar – everything your normally do with your data device. A VGA port allows you to connect to a projector for on-the-go presentations.

Check out this great add-on to you Smartphone at Telecom2009, September 11th!

Test out your texting skills and take the challenge!

2009-08-24T09:27:00.007-05:00

Text savvy enthusiasts are invited to join HOT 103's Ace Burpee and Chris Fantini at St. Vital Centre on August 28 and 29 and take the T2W Text 2 Win Text Messaging Challenge. By taking the challenge, you have a chance to win 1 of 2 Motorola Hints from MTS.

If you can't make it to St. Vital Centre, log onto stvitalcentre.com and take the online challenge August 28-September 15 for your chance to win a Motorola Hint from MTS.

Visit St. Vital Centre's website here.

Telecom2009 Registration Opens!

2009-08-18T21:29:00.012-05:00

IDC is proud to announce that registration is now open for the Telecom2009 Trade Show & Conference. September 11th from 9am to 3pm at CanadInn Club Regent. This year's event is bigger and better than ever, featuring an exciting line-up of speakers, presentations and seminars to help attendees grow their business, improve their knowledge in communicating and discuss industry trends – all while taking advantage of great networking opportunities.

We will keep you updated on all the news leading up to the event, so keep checking back, or better yet, subscribe to our blog.

Learn more about the event or register for Telecom2009 here.

"I'm not wearing that!"

2009-08-04T10:10:00.003-05:00

So you are one of those people who look at Bluetooth headsets and think "I'm not wearing that." Well, you're not alone. When first introduced, many Bluetooth headsets were large and looked awkward.

There is good news. Today's Bluetooth headsets are smaller and more stylish. Like most technologies, manufacturers have found a way to make them smaller, better and cheaper. Have a look at the BlueAnt V1 – it's tiny.

A headset worth wearing - BlueAnt V1

Still not convinced? That's OK. With hands-free laws right around the corner, if wearing an earpiece isn't for you, there are other products that will do the trick. Motorola and BlueAnt make speakerphones that clip right onto your visor. Features can include voice answer, voice dialing and some can even play music from your data device. They can be paired with multiple devices as well, so if you're sharing a car – no problem.

Funkwerkz also makes an in-vehicle Bluetooth device that is installed and connected with your speaker system for optimal sound quality. Products like the EGO flash even have "Speech-to-text" functions that allow you to send a text message without typing.

Keep talking!

App Review - Weather Eye

2009-07-27T07:36:00.000-05:00

Platform: BlackBerry
Price: FREE
Category: News & Weather
Compatibilty: All BlackBerry models - v.4.1 or higher

Summary:
Mobile tool for instant weather conditions & forecasts

Pros:
• Shows current conditions icon and weather with simple roll-over
• Short & long term forecasts
• Severe weather warning updates

Cons:
• Like any other weather forecast... not 100% accurate

Review:
"I love this app. So far it is the most accurate forecast I have seen. I was sitting on the deck and saw that the icon had changed to Severe Thunderstorm Warning. Sure enough, 20 minutes later the storm passed through. Pretty accurate!"

Reviewed by Melanie Paterson, Retail Sales Trainer

Rating: 9/10
Get the app here

Want more info on BlackBerry App World™?
Visit the website here

BlackBerry® Storm - Software Update

2009-07-23T08:36:00.009-05:00

MTS has approved a new software update for the BlackBerry Storm 9530.
The new update package is 4.7.0.148

Included in this software update are fixes for:
• Improved viewing when switching from Portrait/Landscape modes
• Improved web browsing
• Improved transmit power for better cellular reception
• Camera/Camcorder fixes
• Multimedia fixes
...and more

You will need to download the update using your PC.
The update file can be found here.
Info on how to update your BlackBerry can be found here

Hands-Free Law in Manitoba... it's coming.

2009-07-21T11:30:00.002-05:00

After long speculation, Bill 5 under the The Highway Traffic Amendment Act was passed on June 11, 2009. The law will come into force one year after the date it was passed – June 11, 2010.

Bill 5 bans the use of cellular and Smartphone devices while driving.

Amendments have been made to allow cellular and radio use by law enforcement, fire departments and ambulance services.

Details on the act can be found here:
http://web2.gov.mb.ca/bills/39-3/b005e.php

Online Bill Contest - Go Green and Win!

2009-07-17T09:12:00.020-05:00

You can streamline your life and possibly win a $500 prepaid gift card,
just by signing up for the MTS Online Bill! Sign up for the MTS Online Bill before August 31, 2009, and you will be automatically entered to win one of six prizes!

Best of all, the MTS Online Bill will make it more convenient to view your MTS Home Services bill anytime, anywhere, just by logging onto our website with your unique username and password. Plus, you'll reduce household clutter by receiving less paper – that's good for you, and the environment.

To be able to sign up for the MTS Online Bill, you must be a recipient of the MTS Home Services Bill; it's the blue bill you receive each month in the mail.

More details here:
http://www.mts.ca/mtsonlinebill

Or just sign up here:
http://www.mts.ca/portal/site/mts/MyAccount

Telecom 2009 Announced!

2009-07-16T14:16:00.007-05:00

After a successful Trade Show and Conference in 2008,
IDC Communcations has announced
Telecom2009 Trade Show & Conference.
September 11, 2009 at CanadInn Club Regent.

More details will follow in the coming weeks