SkyFire Opens Beta, Includes Canada
You may remember the SkyFire web browser that we talked about a while back here at Symbian-Guru. We even got our hands on some invite codes for you, but obviously those ran out rather quickly. Don’t worry, though, if you didn’t get in on the closed beta, you’re in the clear, as the company has now opened its beta to anyone. To get your download, simply head over here, enter your email and phone number, and you’re good to go.
The beta was previously limited only to those in the United States for some silly reason, but is now officially open to Canadians, as well. There are also reports that, if you live in other countries, you can simply put in a bogus phone number and then get the download via email, but we’ve not confirmed this. Still, if you’re *that* interested in SkyFire, it can’t hurt to try.
The Symbian version has not been updated much, as compared to other platforms, but if you recall, SkyFire works basically like Opera Mini, only it’s a native S60 application. Most web video seems to be supported, as well as supposedly offering a speedier browsing experience. There are also reports that their Terms of Service allow SkyFire to basically snoop through anything you do on the browser (since all of your traffic is going through their proxy server), so you’ll likely want to steer clear of personal stuff, such as banking, that you wouldn’t want someone else nosing about in.
Personally? I’m sticking with the default S60 browser on the Nokia N96. It works great, is nice and snappy, and doesn’t come with any limitations or caveats. Just the way I like it. I’ve set Keytoss as my default homepage, and I have everything I need, right at my fingertips.
Anyway I've tried out Skyfire and its really not so great on my N95. I think its better in a phone like the 5800 XM.
In any case, I've spoken with the guys at SkyFire, and while I don't want to discredit them entirely, I've tried it on a few devices, and just don't see a compelling reason to dump the built-in browser. However, I also like the built-in browser, and I know that many people don't. I also hate Opera Mini, if that's any indication, lol.
However, "I am sticking to the default S60 browser on my N96" was cool. I thought you were sold on to N85!!!!!
I am still waiting for Nokia to announce a nice Nseries 5MP touchscreen.
However, "I am sticking to the default S60 browser on my N96" was cool. I thought you were sold on to N85!!!!!
I am still waiting for Nokia to announce a nice Nseries 5MP touchscreen.