We are excited to announce the launch of the latest product in our range of Android tablet PCs – the Scroll Excel III. Packed full of exciting features the Excel III offers powerful hardware and the latest Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) operating system, ensuring speedy response times, excellent accessibility and high levels of overall performance.

Beneath the sleek and stylish tablet casing a powerful Dual Core Cortex A9 1.6GHz processor provides ample power to run even the most demanding of apps with relative ease. Add a more than capable Quad Core Maili-400 graphics processor to 1GB of DDR3 RAM and the Excel III ensures that high quality content is quite literally at your fingertips.

The latest addition to the Storage Options Scroll range also comes complete with the brilliant Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) operating system. Refined and optimised to enhance performance, the most recent incarnation of Android allows you to make the most of the Excel’s noteworthy hardware and enjoy a smooth and pleasing tablet experience.

An exceptional 1024 x 600 high resolution screen, which allows you to watch content in crystal clarity; Bluetooth connectivity for use with peripherals along with front (0.3MP) and rear (2.0MP) facing cameras and the Scroll Excel III offers and impressive package, ideal for use in the home, office or on the move.

Available to order directly via storageoptions.com and from selected stockists, the Excel III is the newest addition to join the award winning Storage Options Scroll tablet line up.

Installing a camera could be the best step you can take in ensuring home or business security and complete peace of mind. With gadget and technology ownership on the rise homes are increasingly becoming an attractive target for would-be burglars.  While an alarm system, if you chose to install one, may alert you, your neighbours or the police to the presence of an unwelcome visitor, there is no capacity for capturing the trespasser in the act.

With an IP camera not only does the motion detection feature send an instant email notification that something is amiss, but the captured footage can also provide the authorities with the image required to help detect and ultimately detain an intruder.

Home security, however, is not the only application for an IP Camera. Every parent knows how tiring it can be caring for a baby or a small child – with so much to do, you can often feel as though you need eyes in the back of your head. With an IP Camera another set of eyes is only a step away. Simply set up a camera in your baby’s nursery or child’s play room and, day or night, you can effortlessly ensure that they are safe and well without having to disturb them.

Plus with the remote access functionality IP Cameras afford, even the parent who is not at home with the infant can log in from wherever they are to give them added peace of mind.

The remote access feature also means that you can keep an eye on a pet while away from home. Dogs are said to be man’s best friend and, while leaving your companion home alone may or may not be a regular occurrence, the reassurance that your pet is safe and well can often be invaluable.

The pan and tilt feature of the Indoor IP Camera also means that, even if you pet roams around the room, a quick, remote adjustment of a well placed camera will bring your animal into view.

The owners of holiday homes know all too well the anxiety which can be caused by being away from a property for a prolonged period of time. In much the same way as a home or business the threat of intruders is a key area of concern, but other household emergencies also take on a new dimension.

Leaking pipes, the after effects of a storm or power outage or even an unlocked door or open window are all matters which can be quickly addressed in the home with minimal inconvenience or damage. But if you are away for the property for a prolonged period of time such problems may go unresolved. Installing an IP Camera, however, provides the opportunity to spot a problem and contact a friend or neighbour on the scene who can prevent misfortune becoming disaster.

The uses for an IP camera also extend beyond home security and reassurance. Nature lovers too can utilise the potential of an IP surveillance system.  Installing a camera such as the Outdoor IP Camera overlooking a garden, nature area or other outdoor space can provide an excellent view of animals interacting in their natural surroundings without the intrusion a human presence can cause. The potential for capturing unspoilt, natural images is truly exciting.

The latest Android Operating system (4.1, Jelly Bean) is now available as an update for the Scroll Essential II. The upgrade, which can be downloaded directly from the Storage Options Website, means that the popular 7’’ tablet can now run on the latest tablet operating system, ensuring a smooth and sleek user experience. This enhancement is part of the Storage Options brand commitment to offer ‘Technology without Compromise’ and offer extensive product support wherever possible.

The Jelly Bean (4.1) operating system is designed to optimise tablet performance and effortlessly affords a fast, fluid and smooth experience allowing you to enjoy using your Scroll Essential II with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

The Jelly Bean operating system also affords the most responsive android experience yet, meaning that with the touch of a finger tip you can quickly and accurately switch between apps applications and programs and much more.

Firmware and Guide Available Online

Scroll Tablet Firmware Page

Scroll Essential II Android 4.1 Upgrade

Tuesday 5^th February 2013 marks Safer Internet Day, an event organised annually to promote safe and responsible uses for online technology. The campaign, now in its tenth year, is aimed especially at children and young people, with a view to promoting healthy internet practices. The campaign is one which Storage Options endorses and is proud to support during 2013.

The issues raised by the campaign are mirrored in the findings of a recent study commissioned by Storage Options, which found that parents are concerned about the amount of time their children are spending with technology. The study found that almost two thirds parents (62%) worry about the amount of time their children are spending using computers, consoles, mobiles and tablets.  Concerns about online activity were also raised.

Over the Christmas period sales reports indicate that children received more technology based presents than ever before, with worldwide tablet sales growing to 119 million units (a 98 per cent increase from 2011). Official figures have also found that children are one of the main technology users in our homes, spending approximately 353 hours every year using their gadgets, making it a genuine topic of concern for parents.

Even though just under half (41%) of parents admitted letting their children use their mobiles devices regularly, a quarter (24%) aged between 45-54 said they wouldn’t let them use their technology at all.

Storage Options has noticed the ‘tech-based anxiety’ some parents are facing with mobiles ‘phones, consoles and gadgets become more ingrained in our daily family lives. For this reason, and in support of the Safer Internet Day initiative, we are pleased to offer some useful parenting tips to help families enjoy technology responsibly.

1. Every parent must decide when their child is the correct age to use a mobile device – this is a personal decision with no right or wrong answer.
2. Teach your children positive computing habits by encouraging them to come forward with questions surrounding any negative situations and try to set a good example with your own online behaviour.
3. Don’t be afraid to communicate the basics to your child and teach them the ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ of using your mobile device. Educate them regarding online safety, cybercrime, rules of online etiquette and behaviour as well as information sharing and spending.
4. Screen time should always be limited with no more than two hours per day and use of devices balanced with other healthy everyday activities such as reading, participating in sports and playing outdoors.
5. Make it clear that games are only for playtime as part of a daily routine.
6. An efficient way of monitoring children’s usage is by getting involved and interacting with them too as this can help you both bond.
7. Try to work with friends or your child’s school and its district to develop a class for parents that educates about school policies on electronic aggression and the resources available to you as parents.
8. Make sure they do not access your devices in private areas of your house, with use restricted to areas like the living room and kitchen.
9. Use technology time as a reward as this can be useful, reinforcing to the child that access is actually a privilege and not their right. It can then also be removed for bad behaviour. Let them earn time by helping out at home, doing good deeds or doing well at school.
10. Try and get your child to use the device for anything that offers educational value or encourages them to learn about real life subjects from maths to history, science to geography.
11. Encourage open discussion about anything online and let them come forward and ask any questions they may have.
12. Finally, embrace technology and educate yourself as much as you can. Try to be hands-on with new devices, applications, social networks and services whenever possible as it will give you a chance to bond with your child.

New and emerging technologies have brought us a new era of communication and our youngsters learn to use social media forums and websites to learn, connect with friends, relatives and even potential employers. As long as the right balance can be found for a child’s lifestyle both parents and the child can benefit.

1. Business – If you spend a lot of time on the go and don’t fancy having to carry a laptop around with you or if you have to work in tight spaces then working from a tablet is an ideal solution. OfficeSuite Pro 6allows you to view, edit and create Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files meaning that you can leave the office and still take it with you. Available from Slide ME for just $14.99.

2. Music – The rise in self-recorded music has led to a growth in the amount ways to share it. SoundCloudallows users to share, record, and listen to music wherever they are. It makes for a great alternative to listening to your MP3 and you may stumble across some new bands.

3. Social – Tablet devices are a great tool to keep up with your friends while you’re out and about as well as for sharing. Whether you like to Tweet, FourSquare or Facebook you can now have any of these great social media apps on your tablet to share the good times. With all of our Scroll tablets coming with cameras there is no quicker way to share those memories than to take your pictures and upload them straight away. Simply visit their websites to upload. If you like sharing on Instagram you might want to check this funky little applicationout.

4. Gaming – The number of mobile gamers has now overtaken the number of hardcore gamers and it’s down to games like Temple Run and Angry Birds. However, the game we’re hooked on at the moment is 100 Doors. A series of mental challenges to get from one room to the next which will keep you thinking even when you’re relaxing. Don’t worry though; a walkthrough is also available just in case you get a bit stuck.

We are pleased to offer a full Customer Service experience throughout the Christmas period. With the exception of weekends and bank holidays our UK based team will be available to answer any questions and queries which you may have.

High demand is expected

We are anticipating high levels of seasonal demand for our support services. Our team will be more than happy to deal with your request and will respond to your query when you Submit a Service Request.

The high level of demand means that you may not receive an immediate response to your query, however we do expect an answer to be within the standard time period of two working days, so please be patient – we won’t let you down.

Please, only contact us once

When you register a request you will be issued with a unique help desk ticket number. Please do not submit multiple requests for the same query – all issues will be resolved in the order in which they are received and additional tickets will only delay our team from helping other customers.

We love hearing from you on Facebook, Twitter and via the Blog, but please avoid asking technical or customer service questions via social media. All technical questions will only be answered via service requests logged with our customer services team. We feel this is the best and fairest way of offering our service.

Is there already an answer to your question?

We work hard to produce the best possible support material online. This means that there may well be an answer to your question waiting for you on the Support Pages of our website.

Our extensive FAQ database will give guidance on some of the most frequent questions we receive.

Plus our plain English Guides and Manuals are also available to take you, step by step, through a whole range of topics.

In our experience, these solve the majority of support issues and will get you up and running in no time.

Website Orders

Over the Christmas period we are implementing a number of changes to our system. This will mean that, while orders will be processed and payment taken we will be unable to ship goods after 5pm on Friday 21^st December. A full service will be resumed on Wednesday 2^nd January 2013, when all outstanding orders will ship.

Already proving popular in the market, the Scroll Pocket has now received a ringing endorsement from Britain’s Most Popular Paper – The Sun.

In a piece featuring in Friday’s edition as well as the Sun Online, Gaming Editor Lee Price was impressed with the features and feel of ‘the season’s must-have gadget’. With an RRP of only £49.99, this ‘Bonanza’ price point was also greeted positively.

This ideal Christmas gift is also a favourite of the Gadget Show, who felt the 4.3’’ slate ‘just about took the biscuit’ when compared to the other products currently available.

The Scroll Pocket is available to order now direct from Storage Options Website as well as from a number of our Partners.

Retailing at just £119.99, the sleek and stylish Scroll Evoke features a new Dual Core Cortex A9 1.6GHz processor, enhancing performance and offering a crystal clear viewing experience. The 7” tablet also offers 8GB of on-board memory (expandable by up to 32GB with a Micro SD card) ensuring plenty of room for e-books, music and movies, plus Bluetooth connectivity provides access to a range of wireless devices such as a keyboard or mouse.

Providing a truly portable experience, the Scroll Evoke comes with a brand new Mali-400 quad core graphics processor, offering the user an impressive, polished display and rich viewing experience.

Paul Evison, Head of Brand at Storage Options, comments: “The Scroll Evoke is an exciting and important addition to our range and as the first device to run on Android 4.1, we are re-enforcing our commitment to offering the latest technology to our customers. Our Scroll range now offers a tablet to suit everyone, whether they are looking for an entry level device or something more sophisticated. With great features such as a Quad Core graphics processor and Bluetooth connectivity, we feel that the Scroll Evoke is the perfect addition. With an RRP of only £119.99, the Evoke is also one of the most cost effective tablets on the market which runs the latest Android operating system.”

The Android 4.1 Jellybean operating system is the fastest and smoothest version to date and introduces a new Google search experience. Everything in Jelly Bean is faster, more fluid and smoother. These new 4.1 features have improved performance throughout the Scroll device including faster orientation changes, quicker responses when switching between apps and more consistent rendering across the system through triple buffering.

Available to order from http://www.storageoptions.com, the Evoke is the newest tablet to join Storage Option’s award winning Scroll line up with tablets ranging from 4.3” to 9.7”.

· 45% say they can ‘never switch off’

· Half prefer checking device to conversation with their partner

New research we have released today has found that our obsession with mobile devices could in fact be affecting our relationships, as Brits admit to being more interested in status updates and emails than conversation with their partner – not to mention using their mobile devices on the toilet, in bed or even during intimacy!

Our study explored the tech usage habits of the nation, and revealed a worrying majority unable to go even a few minutes without an electronic device to hand.

More than half (57%) of people surveyed admitted they regularly use their mobile devices in bed, 40% using them while sat on the toilet and one-in-20 people even confessing to using their devices during sex! As a result, 45% admitted that their mobile phones and tablet devices prevented them from ever truly switching off and relaxing in their spare time.

Checking emails, surfing the net or updating social network sites also emerged as another area of obsession, with almost half (49%) admitting to checking their tablets instead of properly listening to their partner, and 35% of people finding the amount of time their partner spends on their tablet device even more annoying than them not doing the housework!

In addition, our study also highlighted that one-in-five of us actually set a time limit for our partners to use their devices, while just under half (45%) of respondents admitted that they can’t go more than an hour without using or checking their technology.

Despite all of this, 40% truly believe that their tablet or mobile device has made them more efficient – whether that is in their personal lives or in a work capacity. So why is it so difficult to switch off and how can you get the most out of your tablet device without it taking over your life?

Paul Evison, Head of Brand comments: “We know that people are becoming more and more reliant on their mobile devices. Having information at your fingertips can make life so much easier and the thought of having that instant access removed can be a daunting prospect for many. However, we can all be much more efficient by actually setting aside certain times of the day to use your tablet, update your social networks and check your emails. Instead of constantly dipping in and out of our devices we just need to set aside specific times to use them each day to stop us becoming unsociable tech-mad hermits.”

Interestingly, our research found that stress levels at not having access to mobiles phones or tablets are at their highest in Northern Ireland (36%) and the South East of England (34%) with respondents feeling like they will be missing out on vital information if they had to go without their mobile devices for 24 hours.

The Excel II has been significantly improved with Bluetooth and selected 3G connectivity being added to the new model. Its on-board memory has doubled from 4GB to 8GB and continues to support a highly versatile multi-touch screen and a smooth 3D output to compatible TV or monitors via a mini HDMI cable.

The Extreme II has also been boosted with Bluetooth connectivity now enabling hassle-free file transfers and access to our range of wireless tablet accessories. It features a 9.7” capacitive multi-touch IPS screen and comes with an Allwinner A10 Cortex A8 1.2 GHz processor which allows users to glide across pages and view multimedia content.

The Essential II, which has been upgraded to Android 4.0, offers an extremely portable solution at 7” with a capacitive multi-touch screen and now, like the Excel, has selected 3G connectivity. With 8GB of built-in memory, which is expandable by up to 32GB through a Micro SD card, the Essential II also supports videos, e-books and games – making it the perfect entry level tablet.

In addition to the new tablets, we are also delighted to announce our exciting new range of wireless Bluetooth tablet accessories. The new Scroll Keyboard and Scroll Mouse make navigating and typing on a tablet that little bit easier, while the wireless Scroll Speaker provides you with a rich and full bodied sound, making them the perfect partners for movie viewing.

Paul Evison, our Head of Brand from said, “To ensure the Scroll tablet range remains competitive, we are constantly looking at ways to enhance our products. By updating these latest devices we have now placed our entire range onto the Android 4.0 operating system. We now offer seven Scroll tablets with each one offering something a little different to the customer. We believe no matter what you are looking for in a tablet device the Scrolls offer you great value for money.

“The new range of accessories is an exciting addition to our portfolio that allows our customers to really get the most out of their tablet.”