It was no secret that Amazon was working an Android app store, including some early work with developers, but Amazon's "Appstore" (see what they did with the space there?) Developer Portal just went live. So, no doubt that this is happening, if there was any left in your mind, and we've got a nice stack of details on the store to tide us over until Amazon launches this thing. Amazon is looking to strike a balance between Apple's ultra strict store rules and Google's unvetted mayhem, and will be examining and testing each app before it goes onto the store. Amazon is also going to control pricing, with developers allowed to set a "list price" that Amazon will riff on, adjusting the price based on magical algorithms. There's the standard 70 / 30 split, and Amazon promises that the developer will get no less than 20 percent of the list price. Apps will be promoted to folks browsing Amazon.com just like how Kindle books pop up among physical goods, and can be "pushed" to your device similarly. It's all very intriguing if it catches on, which seems particularly likely on non-blessed devices that don't have access to Google's Market (like the bevy of WiFi-only tablets, the market Amazon claims to be targeting), and developers who want to get in on the action can fork over $99 today to get started.
It seems like wearing your gadgets is all the rage these days, and the Vyne is no exception. A belt-like flexible strip of plastic with a clip on the end for your iPod touch or iPhone (though we suppose it should work with any gadget that has the right dimensions), this product isn't wholly unlike the Gorillapod. There's no word on price or release date just yet, but just think of all the attention you'll get while using this in public. Then again, your hands will be free to do tons of other things -- like checking the time on your iPod nano wristwatch.
Look for the logo, says RIM. Don't look for the distinctively BlackBerry-shaped case, car mount, screen protector, or holster ... look for the logo. Apparently, BlackBerry users have been struggling with picking out accessories for their smartphones, so RIM has decided to roll out a licensing program for specially certified "Built for BlackBerry" peripherals. Case-mate, Incipio, Speck and other manufacturers have already signed up for this authentic accessory program and you'll see a video loaded with marketing speak after the break explaining the synergistic benefits flowing from this industrial collaboration.
Looks like AT&T will be pushing out more than just a dozen Android phones here at CES. During the outfit's Developer Summit, Peter Hill, VP of ecosystem and innovation, demonstrated how U-verse Mobile Application Development Technology can effectively enable a mobile device to interactively share media, content and apps with the TV. In theory, this could lead to the creation of apps that will enable AT&T customers to control more of the U-verse TV experience with their handsets, and possibly vice-versa. In his words, the tech "can easily connect mobile devices to set-top boxes via WiFi," and it'll complement DLNA with authentication. At the Summit, a brief demo saw an iPad app schedule a show and control the U-verse DVR, and a brand new option -- dubbed ComplemenTV -- took center stage. Essentially, the iPad was able to look at what channel was being viewed and then delivered relevant extra content on the iPad. Sounds more like an advertiser's dream than anything else, but we're holding out hope for more enticing uses in the near future. Unfortunately, no dates were given as to when this stuff would be rolled out, but the future's looking bright, anyway.
Hot on the heels of its trifecta of HSPA + smartphones (the Infuse 4G, Atrix 4G, and Inspire 4G), AT&T announced that both HSPA+ and LTE tablets are coming to its network in the second half of 2011. The first tablet is made by Motorola and features HSPA+ (or as AT&T calls it, 4G), Honeycomb, a 10.1-inch display. and a 1GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor. The second tablet features LTE, but AT&T was reluctant to share more specifics. These will be joined by more HSPA+ devices in the first half of the year (5 to 7 devices total), and LTE devices in the second half of the year, including phones, tablets and modems.
Vizio's already rolled out a whole range of new TVs that include Vizio Internet Apps, and it's now announced a bit of a bonus to go along with them -- both Hulu Plus and Blockbuster On Demand have been added to Vizio's roster, and will begin rolling out to all VIA-ready TVs this week. Both apps will also be headed to VIZIO 3D Blu-ray Players with Wireless Apps, but they'll apparently have to wait a bit longer. As Vizio notes, those are just two in a series of recently announced additions to the platform, which will also soon include MOG, OnLive, Namco Bandai, Skype and Vimeo, to name a few. Head on past the break for the complete press release.
Show full PR text
Hulu Plus™ Subscription Service and BLOCKBUSTER On Demand® Now Available on VIZIO Internet Apps™ Adding More Entertainment Freedom to the Industry's Award-Winning Connected CE Platform
- VIZIO's industry-leading Connected CE platform, VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA), continues its innovation and leadership position with the addition of Hulu Plus and BLOCKBUSTER On Demand®
- Hulu Plus offers instant access to the entire current season of hit TV shows like Glee, The Office, and Modern Family as well as classic favorites like Battlestar Galactica, and The X-Files
- BLOCKBUSTER On Demand® delivers new release movies on the same day as they become available on DVD and Blu-ray
- Additional partners available soon on the platform include BigStar, MOG, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., OnLive, Skype, and Vimeo.
IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- VIZIO, America's #1 LCD HDTV Company*, announced today a significant expansion of the VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) platform with the addition of Hulu Plus™ subscription service and BLOCKBUSTER On Demand®. These new apps further strengthen the diverse catalog of entertainment choices available through VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) Connected CE platform on 2010's best-ranked LCD HDTVs and select Blu-ray players. Several other partners soon to launch their content and services to the award-winning VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) platform include BigStar, MOG, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., OnLive, Skype, and Vimeo.
"Our VIZIO Internet Apps platform continues to be the most innovative and compelling connected experience for consumer electronics," said Matthew McRae, Chief Technology Officer at VIZIO. "Service and application partners focus on VIZIO because of the seamless user experience, class leading features, and award winning devices. The result is a product that gives consumers unprecedented choice and access to the best of what the web has to offer."
Hulu Plus enables subscribers to stream instantly the deepest available library of current hit TV shows from ABC, FOX and NBC for only $7.99 per month. Hulu Plus offers the full seasons of many current hit television shows like Glee, Family Guy, Grey's Anatomy, Modern Family, 30 Rock, House and The Office. Viewers will also be able to enjoy classic shows from an extensive back catalog, including The X-Files, Arrested Development, Battlestar Galactica, Monk, Saturday Night Live, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Ugly Betty, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and many more.
BLOCKBUSTER On Demand delivers a wide range of movies, including new releases as soon as they become available on DVD and Blu-ray. Rental prices range from $2.99 to $3.99, and purchase prices range from $5.99 to $19.99. BLOCKBUSTER On Demand enables customers to rent or buy not only the latest hit movies, such as Inception, Shrek Forever After and The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, but also classics like Caddyshack, Superman and Back to the Future.
VIZIO Internet Apps Continues to Grow
The VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) Connected CE platform delivers unprecedented choice and control of web-based content and services directly to the television without the need of a PC or set-top box. The platform spans across VIZIO's E, M and XVT Series HDTVs, from sizes as small as 22" class, up to 65" class, with select apps also available on certain VIZIO Blu-ray Players. VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) features top online content and service brands including: Amazon Video On Demand, Facebook®, Flickr®, Netflix, Rhapsody®, Pandora®, Twitter™, VUDU®, and Yahoo!® TV Widgets, as well as several new apps recently released, including: Fandango®, iMemories®, MediaBox™, My-Cast®, TuneIn Radio™, Web Videos, Wiki TV and Yahoo Fantasy Football .
Several new partners have also signed on to deliver their services through the VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) platform including BigStar, MOG, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., OnLive, Skype, and Vimeo.
BigStar (www.bigstar.tv) – BIGSTAR, the social discovery and demand platform, gives access to thousands of unique movies and entertainment. Watch Indies, foreign films, festival award winners and more!
MOG (www.mog.com) – MOG is the award-winning, on demand digital music service that provides unlimited access to over 10 million songs from over a million albums in CD quality through a wide range of devices including mobile phones, tablets, TVs, Blu-ray players and the Web.
NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. (www.namcobandaigames.com) - Namco Bandai provides top-notch interactive gaming to multiple platforms. With the expansion to the VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) platform, Namco's rich franchises will be available to an even broader audience.
OnLive (www.onlive.com), the pioneer of instant-play cloud gaming, delivers premium video games on demand to a range of electronic devices, empowering gamers to anytime, anywhere, instantly.
Skype (www.skype.com) – The Skype App in VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) HDTVs will work in conjunction with the VIZIO Video Camera VCP100 that attaches to any VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) HDTV through a USB connection. When used together, users can enjoy HD quality 720p video chat at up to 30 frames per second over their high-speed Internet connection. Perfect for staying in touch with friends and loved ones, the Skype App also lets you chat over instant messenger with other Skype users.
Vimeo (www.vimeo.com) – Vimeo's newest app allows people to watch their original videos in high quality on Vimeo.com along with thousands of other inspiring works from talented creators.
Additionally, 3D fans can look forward to instant streaming of 3D movies from VUDU. At CES this year, VUDU began offering 3D content for enabled TVs and Blu-ray Players, which will soon include VIZIO HDTVs and Blu-ray Players. With the addition of 3D streaming, VUDU enriches its industry leading cinematic streaming experience, an experience that already includes instant HD and HDX 1080p and Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 Surround Sound. Combined with VIZIO's new Theater 3D™ HDTVs which utilize lightweight and battery-free eyewear and provide up to 2X brighter and flicker-free picture quality, users will be able to enjoy the ultimate 3D experience without leaving their living rooms.
In further support of the cinematic experience, VIZIO will be demonstrating a new app at their private CES showroom at the Wynn Hotel. The new VIZIO On Demand app will enable users to access movies in CinemaScope aspect ratio for a pure movie experience on VIZIO's Cinema HDTV™ displays, 4K by 2K content for Ultra HD TVs that can display up to four times the resolution of 1080p HD, 3D movies, and a deep catalog of top movie favorites, all available to stream direct to VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA)-enabled TVs.
Wireless connectivity is central to the VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) experience with 802.11n dual-band Wi-Fi conveniently built in for high performance. With VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA), viewers can enjoy the convenience of on demand movies, TV shows, social networking, music, photos and more with just the push of a button on the premium Bluetooth QWERTY keyboard universal remote with slide out keypad (XVT Models only).
VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) Blu-ray Players also deliver select apps with most models sporting built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi connection as well.
Hulu Plus and BLOCKBUSTER On Demand will be rolling out this week to VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) HDTVs through automatic updates over their Internet connection. Soon to follow, VIZIO 3D Blu-ray Players with Wireless Apps (VBR333 and VBR334) will receive updates over the Internet that will add these apps as well.
*Sources: Q3 2010 iSuppli and DisplaySearch Reports
About VIZIO
VIZIO, Inc., "Entertainment Freedom For All," headquartered in Irvine, California, is America's HDTV and Consumer Electronics Company. In 2007, VIZIO skyrocketed to the top by becoming the #1 selling brand of flat panel HDTVs in North America and became the first American brand in over a decade to lead in U.S. TV sales. Since 2007 VIZIO HDTV shipments remain in the TOP ranks in the U.S. and was #1 for the total year in 2009. VIZIO is committed to bringing feature-rich consumer electronics to market at a value through practical innovation. VIZIO offers a broad range of award winning consumer electronics. VIZIO's products are found at Costco Wholesale, Sam's Club, Walmart, Target, BJ's Wholesale, and other retailers nationwide along with authorized online partners. VIZIO has won numerous awards including a #1 ranking in the Inc. 500 for Top Companies in Computers and Electronics, Fast Company's 6th Most Innovative CE Company of 2009, and made the lists of Ad Age's Hottest Brands, Good Housekeeping's Best Big-Screens, CNET's Editor's Choice, PC World's Best Buy and OC Metro's 10 Most Trustworthy Brands among many other prestigious honors. For more information, please call 888-VIZIOCE or visit on the web at www.VIZIO.com.
The V, VIZIO, TruLED, Extreme VIZIO Technology XVT, VIZIO Internet Apps, VIA Plus, 480Hz SPS, 240Hz SPS, Thin Line, Smooth Motion, Razor LED, Smart Dimming, Theater 3D, Cinema HDTV, Entertainment Freedom For All, names, phrase and symbols are trademarks or registered trademarks of VIZIO, Inc. All other trademarks may be the property of their respective holders.
We saw the HTC F8181 floating around in September, HTC's followup to the Smart, and now AT&T has announced it as the HTC Freestyle. It has a 3.2-inch capitative touchscreen, with a "Sense experience" UI that obviously riffs on HTC's Android efforts, but instead runs on top of Qualcomm's Brew MP platform. AT&T is classifying it as a "QMP" for "Quick Messaging Phone." The Freestyle will be out next month, and while there's no word on price, expect cheap.
AT&T has mentioned today at CES that it's prepping to launch some 12 Android devices this year -- presumably a mix of phones and tablets, many of which have been announced here today at the carrier's developer event. For the mathematically challenged, that works out to one a month on average -- a pretty aggressive pace and a sign that Android's showing no signs of slowing down in terms of carrier and manufacturer adoption. Though the hardware looks great, none of AT&T's Android announcements so far here feature a stock UI experience -- sure, nothing they've done in the past year suggests they're keen to offer a stock device, but with 12 in the pipe, surely just one of 'em can go skinless?
We briefly chatted with LG's John Taylor, US VP of marketing, to better understand when LG might bring its auto-stereoscopic 3D mobile TV to market. The US market, to be precise, since this portable TV is built around the ATSC-M/H standard for mobile TV. The television on hand here in Vegas was a prototype using a parallax barrier panel developed by LG Display and destined for other LG products including a 3D picture frame still under development. The 3D effect was on par with the capabilities we've seen from other parallax barrier displays of similar size. LG's testing the waters right now with plans to launch in 2012 -- just as soon as broadcasters embrace the fledgling technology in sufficient numbers.
At the last CES it was Kia showing off its Microsoft-backed Uvo infotainment system. This year Big Poppa Hyundai is taking the reins and showing off Blue Link, which takes at least part of its name from the BLUE-WILL concept hybrid. Blue Link isn't a fancy car, though, rather a new infotainment and telematics system that will be first installed on the Sonata this spring, then coming to the Veloster this summer before hitting all models by 2013. What does it do, you ask? Why, lots of stuff.
There's voice recognition, enabling the driver to search for POIs and the like without taking a single hand off the wheel. There's also remote start, which is handy on a cold morning, and even remote disabling of the car via text message, which is handy if you find nothing but an oil stain where you left your prized ride. No word on what if anything Hyundai will charge for Blue Link, but there will be a additional premium tiers of services, like Blue Link Assurance, which sounds a good bit like OnStar to us, and Blue Link Navigation.
We'll be getting our hands on with Blue Link soon, but until then you'll have to bide your time reading the PR below.
Show full PR text
HYUNDAI LAUNCHES ALL-NEW BLUE LINK® TELEMATICS PLATFORM
Hyundai-developed in-vehicle telematics platform incorporates more than 30 innovative connectivity functions and core safety services
LAS VEGAS, January 5, 2011 – Hyundai is set to challenge conventional wisdom in the automotive industry again in 2011 with the introduction of Blue Link®, an all-new telematics platform exclusive to Hyundai models. This new telematics platform will offer more than 30 unique connectivity features on future models.
A variety of different features will be available at launch, including unique applications such as a maintenance alert that helps drivers identify and schedule service; an "Eco-Coach" that improves efficient driving; restaurant ratings; and remote door lock/unlock capabilities. Blue Link's innovative features continue with remote vehicle start, which allows a driver to heat or cool the car before driving; geofence, which can send a text if a driver has ventured outside prescribed borders or time constraints; and stolen vehicle slowdown to help police recover a stolen vehicle.
Drivers will not have to wait long for the arrival of Blue Link on Hyundai models as it will debut this spring on the popular Sonata sedan, one of three finalists for the North American Car of the Year award. In addition, Hyundai soon will announce a second Blue Link-equipped, youth-oriented coupe model, which will also be available before summer. Hyundai projects Blue Link to be available across the majority of the lineup by the 2013 model year.
"Blue Link combines safety, service and infotainment into a complete package that works to both help simplify Hyundai owners' lives and reduce distracted driving," said Barry Ratzlaff, director of customer satisfaction and service business development, Hyundai Motor America. "We've carefully studied how drivers rely on smart phones and navigation systems as an innovative link to the outside world. Blue Link brings that seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like voice text messaging, POI web search download, turn-by-turn navigation, and monthly vehicle reporting. Our agent-assisted advanced voice recognition system offers a 21st century solution to performing POI searches in the vehicle. This unique and innovative approach enables Hyundai to deliver fast, accurate searches and downloads of POIs to vehicles without the unnecessary costs of traditional operator-only type systems of our competitors."
As part of the Blue Link launch, Hyundai also will provide Blue Link Assurance on Blue Link-equipped vehicles, which includes core safety services for an introductory period. These key safety services include: Automatic Crash Notification (ACN) and Assistance, SOS Emergency Assistance, and Enhanced Roadside Assistance. After the introductory period, owners of Blue Link-equipped vehicles can choose to extend these and other services as desired. Blue Link package subscription fees will be announced this spring on Sonata.
Blue Link Assurance further expands Hyundai's industry leadership formerly established by Hyundai Assurance, the industry's most comprehensive suite of new-vehicle protection. Hyundai Assurance already offers a 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable bumper-to-bumper warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, 5-years complimentary Roadside Assistance, and Buyer Protection - a credit-protecting job-loss vehicle return program.
In typical Hyundai fashion, Blue Link services were developed with targeted packaging options that are tailored to distinct telematics user groups:
Blue Link Assurance package: • Automatic Crash Notification (ACN) and Assistance - Provides immediate assistance when an accident occurs and an airbag is deployed. In this event, an ACN signal, containing customer and location information, will automatically be transmitted to the response center. Upon receipt of the signal, a response specialist will attempt to establish voice communications with the vehicle occupants and forward any pertinent information to emergency services. • SOS Emergency Assistance - Customers request emergency 911 assistance by pressing the dedicated SOS button in the vehicle. This action transmits vehicle information and location to specially-trained response specialists, who assist in coordinating the dispatch of appropriate emergency assistance to the customer. The response specialist remains on the line with the customer until advised assistance has arrived. • Enhanced Roadside Assistance - Enables customers to contact Roadside Assistance via a single in-vehicle button-press. Vehicle information (including location) is automatically transmitted to a response center, enabling the specialist to dispatch assistance more quickly and efficiently for vehicle assistance and retrieval.
Blue Link Essentials package: Remote Access: • Remote Door Lock/Unlock - Enables locking or unlocking vehicle doors via a toll-free number, owner's website, or mobile phone application. • Remote Horn and Lights - Enables activating the horn and/or lights via a toll-free number, owner's website, or mobile phone application. • Panic Notification - Notifies customers when the panic button on their vehicle key fob has been activated, signifying when a family member or other vehicle occupant may be in danger. Notifications are configured online and occur via email or text message. • Remote Vehicle Start - Enables customers to start the vehicle via owner's website or toll-free number, or mobile phone application.
Convenience: • Alarm Notification - Notifies customers when and where the vehicle alert is activated via a text message, email or an automated phone call. • Quick Tips – Provides quick reference assistance for primary vehicle feature location and function. • Location Sharing - Enables sending vehicle location to select friends and members of social networking sites, including Facebook - directly from the vehicle. • Voice Text Messaging – Enables hands-free text messaging to SMS text recipients, including the ability to initiate text messages, rather than only respond to messages, as with some competitive systems. Vehicle Self Diagnostics: • Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification - Provides explanation and repair assistance using vehicle data and off-board diagnosis capabilities to better inform the customer of vehicle trouble alerts. A combination of in-vehicle display alerts and guided voice messages provides customers with additional instructions (information also sent to the customer's preferred dealer to assist with the repair process). • Maintenance Alert - Notifies customers via website, email or SMS message that an upcoming service is due at various thresholds leading up to the event. Configured online, the alerts explain what is included in particular maintenance intervals. • Recall Advisor – Provides all pertinent recall information should a recall be initiated. • Web Vehicle Diagnostics - Provides a report of vehicle diagnostics, eco-coach performance and other important information in a monthly email report and web page update, starting 30 days after registering with the Blue Link service. Theft Protection: • Stolen Vehicle Recovery - In the event a customer's vehicle is reported stolen (and a stolen vehicle report has been filed with the appropriate police department), the response center can provide assistance to the police in an attempt to recover the vehicle. • Stolen Vehicle Slowdown - Used with Stolen Vehicle Recovery, this enables law enforcement to gradually reduce the engine power of the vehicle, thus slowing it down to safe levels. A warning will be transmitted to the driver prior to the slowdown procedure. • Vehicle Immobilization - Used with Stolen Vehicle Recovery, this enables law enforcement to send a signal to the vehicle which immobilizes the engine management system, thus preventing startup. This capability is only valid when the ignition is off, but the command can be saved by the engine ECU for later immobilization if the vehicle is on or in motion at the time of signal transmission. Safeguard: • Valet Alert – Enables alert via text message or automated phone message when the customer's vehicle moves beyond a prescribed region. • Geofence - Enable monitoring vehicle movement in and out of pre-defined regions configured on the owner's website. When the vehicle enters or leaves a designated region, the customer is notified by email, text message or automated phone message. • Speed Alert - Notifies the customer via email, text message or automated phone message when their vehicle exceeds the specified speed threshold established on the owner's website. High value for parents of teen drivers and fleet customers. • Curfew - Alerts owners if the vehicle is being used outside a pre-determined time interval. Alerts are configured online and sent via text message and/or automated phone message.
Blue Link Guidance package: • Turn-by-Turn Navigation Service - Provides traffic information surrounding the customer's vehicle and in the nearby area, based on preferences established using the owner's website. • POI Web Search by advanced voice recognition system and download - Enables Point-of-Interest searches using an automated voice system. Results can be downloaded to the vehicle navigation system. Live operators provide additional support, if needed. • Daily Route Guidance with Traffic Condition - Enables customers to pre-define several routes to a common destination and receive a regularly-scheduled traffic alert for traffic delays along those routes. Results include flow and incident data, along with "Fastest Route" recommendation. • Traffic - Provides traffic information surrounding the customer's vehicle and in the nearby area, based on preferences established using the owner's website. • Gas Station Locations and Gas Prices - Locates gas stations by price, brand or fuel type from the vehicle. Results are played back via automated voice, and can be downloaded to the vehicle's navigation system. • Eco-Coach - Tracks the customer's driving performance habits (MPG and CO2 emissions) on a continual and historical basis. Results and environmentally responsible driving recommendations are provided on the owner's website. • Restaurant Ratings – Provides restaurant ratings for local restaurants with address download for turn-by-turn navigation or onboard navigation. • Weather - Provides weather forecasts and alerts for the immediate area or for customer-defined locations within the owner website. Alerts also appear during navigation routing.
More details on Hyundai Blue Link are available at www.HyundaiBlueLink.com.
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 800 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.
AT&T Mobility boss Ralph de la Vega said at the carrier's Developer Summit in Vegas today that he considers both LTE and HSPA+ to be 4G technologies -- the same philosophy expounded by T-Mobile that's heavy on marketing and light on facts -- and that they'll be launching 20 such devices in 2011. The first half of the year looks to be heavy on HSPA+ fare, while the second half -- following AT&T's initial LTE launch in mid-2011 -- will start to see the LTE stuff come online. A confusing message to be sure -- but hey, as long as those 20 devices are fast and awesome, we'll let it slide.
Toshiba made good on its word to sell glasses-free 3D TVs prior to the end of 2010, but it only managed to out 12- and 20-inch versions in Japan. Today at CES, executives have reportedly stated that the company will be kicking things into high gear for 2011. It'll be showcasing 56- and 65-inch prototypes here in the desert (and a 4K one at that), and according to Reuters, it'll "probably launch two models, one over 40-inches and another over 50-inches." Atsushi Murasawa, Toshiba's head of visual products, even cleared up the distribution question: "These will not only be for the Japanese market, but also America, Europe and China." Sadly, no details were given surrounding eventual prices and release dates, but we'll see if we can't coerce someone into spilling a few more beans here in a moment.
Update: We were able to grab someone here at the show, and were told a more realistic date of "end of fiscal year," which could mean into early 2012 before consumers can bust out their credit cards.
PrimeSense had a feeling this kind of revolution would take over the television world when we spoke with them last March at GDC, and sure enough, said revolution is happening. LG's already integrated motion controls into its sets with its Magic Remote, and now Hillcrest is providing a solution just in case the rest of the world wants to buy in. Hailed as a "turnkey solution," the Freespace MotionEngine is now integrated with Broadcom's BCM35230 digital TV SoC and BCM20730 single-chip Bluetooth solution. That's a lot of technobabble, for sure, but the long and short of it is this: by integrating this into televisions, Freespace / BT-enabled remotes that are equipped with the right sensors can allow TV viewers to control channel switching, volume levels and who knows what else with just their hands. The outfit will be busting out a demo here in Vegas, so we'll be doing our best to catch a glance.
Show full PR text
Hillcrest Labs Unveils Low Cost, Embedded Motion-Control System for Next-Generation Connected TVs
Company to Showcase Collaborative "Smart TV" Solutions with Universal Electronics at CES 2011
LAS VEGAS and ROCKVILLE, Md., Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hillcrest Labs, a leader in motion-control technology and interactive television applications, today announced a new low cost, embedded motion-control system for TV manufacturers. The new turnkey solution is designed to support new motion pointing and gesture-enabled user interfaces for navigating the Web, Internet-based applications, and games on televisions. It will be showcased at the International CES show, January 6-10, 2011, in Las Vegas, NV, in the Broadcom Meeting Room, Hillcrest Labs suite at the Renaissance Hotel, and the Universal Electronics (UEI) booth on the CES show floor.
Specifically, the Company announced that Hillcrest's patented Freespace® MotionEngine is now integrated with Broadcom's new BCM35230 digital TV system-on-a-chip (SoC) and Broadcom's new BCM20730 single-chip Bluetooth® solution, enabling a turn-key, cost-effective, and fully-featured motion control solution for connected televisions. In addition at CES, Universal Electronics, the world's leading manufacturer of TV remotes, will showcase a new Freespace and Bluetooth-enabled TV remote control, utilizing the world's first single-chip, digital-output, 3-axis MEMS gyroscope from InvenSense, that is compatible with the new system from Broadcom and Hillcrest. The demonstrations will include a TV user interface optimized for motion pointing, which includes Hillcrest's HoMEcast™ video application and a Webkit browser engine.
"As the demand for Internet-based content on TV continues to rise, manufacturers are seeking differentiated, turn-key, and economical solutions that enable immersive and intuitive user experiences for consumers," said Chad Lucien, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Hillcrest Labs. "We are proud to have collaborated with Broadcom and the market leaders in remote controls and MEMS devices to create a turnkey solution that enables TV manufactures to quickly add Freespace motion control, pointing applications, and Bluetooth to connected televisions."
"Broadcom is at the forefront of producing very low power chipsets that will enable a growing portfolio of innovative remote control devices for Internet-connected TVs and home entertainment devices," said Craig Ochikubo, Vice President and General Manager of Broadcom's Wireless Personal Area Networking line of business. "We are very pleased to have worked with Hillcrest Labs to incorporate their pioneering Freespace technology into our new class of Bluetooth and digital TV chipsets."
Unlike alternative motion control technologies, both the new chipset and compatible TV remotes use fully-integrated motion sensors that do not require additional external cameras or lightbars in order to control the onscreen viewing experience. In addition, the low cost Bluetooth-based solution does not require line-of-site, which enables consumers to control their TVs without the need to aim at the TV. The new system is compatible with a variety of smart TV platforms including Linux, Android or Google TV-based solutions.
Broadcom is a leader in applying Bluetooth wireless technologies to an increasingly diverse range of consumer electronics and media devices. As a leading supplier of integrated solutions for digital TV, set-top box, Blu-ray disc players and other technologies, Broadcom is able to help drive the proliferation of Bluetooth based gestural and other advanced remote controls. Bluetooth is particularly well suited for the applications because they increasingly require higher data bandwidth than are available from other nascent radio technologies also targeting these devices.
For the past two consecutive years, Hillcrest Labs was named an International CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards Honoree. For 2011, Hillcrest was selected for Kylo™, its free Web browser for television, and in 2010, the company was selected for its Loop™ pointer, an in air mouse designed for consumers who connect their computers to a television. Companies that have licensed Freespace for use in their products include: Eastman Kodak, LG Electronics, Logitech, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., Universal Electronics (UEI), and others.
Additional information about Broadcom is available at www.broadcom.com.
Additional details about Freespace or Hillcrest Labs are available at www.hillcrestlabs.com.
You won't have a difficult time hunting down a charger these days, but hunting down a good one? Now that's a challenge. If you're looking for something that's off of the beaten path (and shamelessly fond of Ma Earth), Idapt's new i1 Eco may be precisely what the doctor ordered. It's a universal charger with two points of charger: a USB port and a tip port, the latter of which is useful for "over 4,000 gadgets" include the iPad, iPhone, PSP, your Xbox 360 controller and your GPS unit. It features an auto-off system that disables it when not in use, and a restart button kicks things back into gear when the time comes. It's slated to ship this spring, but only heaven knows for how much.
Show full PR text
IDAPT Debuts CES Innovations Award Honoree i1 Eco Universal Charger
Check out the award winning charger during CES in the North Hall, iLounge Pavilion, Booth #4216
Barcelona, Spain – January 5, 2011 – IDAPT, a leading mobile technology leader, is excited to announce the new IDAPT i1 Eco dual universal charger. The compact IDAPT i1 Eco is made of recycled materials, meets Energy Star standards, and minimizes the user's carbon footprint while charging most electronic devices.
The IDAPT i1 Eco charger helps conserve energy through its Auto-off system which turns off the charger while not in use and a re-start button to wake it when necessary. The dual charger can refuel mobile devices while at home or the go via wall outlet or included car adapter with minimal impact on the environment. Additionally, no chemical painting is used during the manufacturing process in order to ease the process of future recycling. The IDAPT i1 Eco has two points of charge, a USB port and a tip port. The future-proof interchangeable tips system makes the IDAPT i1 Eco compatible with over 4,000 different devices including iPad and iPhone as well as BlackBerry, Nintendo PSP, XBOX controllers, GPS systems and Bluetooth products.
IDAPT i1 Eco will be available in Spring 2011. More information about IDAPT's new CES products can be found at IDAPTweb.com/CES 2011.
Yet another of the many announcements at today's AT&T Developer Summit, the Inspire 4G is a 4.3-inch monster from HTC that looks ripe to do battle with its counterparts on Sprint and Verizon with the very latest version of Sense first launched on the Desire Z and Desire HD a few months back featuring a lost phone finder, cached maps, fastboot, and more. As with the other "4G" phones that AT&T has announced today, the Inspire 4G doesn't support the carrier's upcoming LTE network -- it'll top out with HSPA+. More details as we have them!
We don't have full details yet, but Acer has just launched three new Aspire laptops, all featuring AMD's Fusion APU. Up first, the 10.1-inch Aspire One 522 -- which we've seen previously -- boasts the AMD C-50 APU, AMD Radeon HD 6250 graphics, and it supports 1080p video with HDMI output. The 10.1-inch panel has WXGA resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio, and other features include Wi-Fi and LAN, plus optional Bluetooth or 3G. The Aspire One 522 will come in green or black. No word on pricing or availability yet. The other two offerings Acer has announced are the Aspire 15.6-inch 5253 and the 14-inch 4253. These bad boys feature AMD's E-Series accelerated processing unit, as well as its Vision engine. The Aspire 5253 can pack up to 8GB of DDR3 SDRAM, and both laptops feature 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi. There's no pricing or availability information for these, yet either, but we'll let you know as soon as we do.
Turns out Motorola's just-announced Atrix 4G for AT&T will be available with a setup they're simply calling the Laptop Dock that pairs up with an app on the phone -- Webtop -- to transform the Atrix into a full-fledged smartbook. All you do, it seems, is dock the phone into a larger, 13.9mm thick chassis -- great for those times when nothing other than a big physical keyboard will do. We don't know how much it's going to cost on top of the phone itself, but something tells us it won't be a bundled accessory. More details as we have them.
Woah, Acer just dropped news on a new Iconia device, except this one is all tablet. The Iconia Tab A500 has Android (no version specified) with the "Acer UI 4.5" on top, and Verizon 4G LTE inside. There's a 10.1-inch "10 point multitouch" screen, Tegra 2, and a gyroscope, which Acer claims should position the tablet perfectly for games. You can also output 1080p video over the built-in HDMI port, but there's no word on the screen's actual resolution. We also don't have any word on a price or a release date, and Acer hasn't even supplied any photos of the device yet , but we played with a 10.1-inch Android tablet from Acer back in November (pictured), and we have to assume this is the same one.
Show full PR text
Acer's New ICONIA Tab A500 to Support Gamers and Mobile Consumers on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network
LAS VEGAS and BASKING RIDGE, N.J., Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Acer announced today that the new Acer ICONIA Tab A500 will be showcased with Verizon Wireless at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), taking advantage of the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network. Providing the backbone for the United States' fastest, most advanced mobile network, Verizon Wireless 4G LTE ensures an improved end-user experience, including fast navigation and high-definition media streaming. The 4G LTE technology will be showcased on the ICONIA Tab A500 at the Verizon Wireless booth (#35216 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center) at CES with a live demo.
"Innovation is in our DNA," said Campbell Kan, vice president of Acer's Smart Handheld BU. "We are proud to once again offer users the most advanced technologies. With the ICONIA Tab A500 supporting 4G LTE, users will be able to wirelessly navigate, download or stream as seamlessly as they do with a wired connection. This is indeed another step toward a truly mobile Internet experience." Sleek, smart and full of innovative features, the ICONIA Tab A500 will be equipped with the latest highly intuitive Android OS and Acer UI 4.5 to reach a whole new level of interactivity. What's more, the Clear.fi media sharing system will be preloaded on the device to easily access, play and share multimedia across the home network and to instantly publish updates to social media networks. Designed for HD entertainment, this tablet comes with a high-resolution, high color contrast display, allowing users to play or share HD video with friends on the go. Complete with a built-in HDMI port and 1080p output, it may also be used to enjoy HD content in full HD on a big-screen TV or monitor.
The 10.1" full capacitive touch screen ensures an optimal on-screen experience from every angle. Aluminum casing provides a cool look and feel, while its high-gloss finish decorated with an engraved pattern demonstrates subtle sophistication. Despite being just 13.3mm thick, it's powerful enough to provide fun and productivity in any location.
One of the tablet's most impressive features is its ability to run and play premium HD arcade games and complex online 3D games, thanks to the 10-point multi-touch and gyro meter control, which guarantees an entertainment experience on par with the best game consoles.
The ICONIA Tab A500 will be equipped with NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core 1.0Ghz processor with Flash 10.1 support for optimized HD Web experience, 3D gaming and multimedia playback anywhere. For seamless communication, it also features the SkyCross antenna and ZTE LTE wireless module.
The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years.
For more information about Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE network, visit www.verizonwireless.com/lte.
About Verizon Wireless Verizon Wireless operates the nation's fastest and most advanced 4G network and largest and most reliable 3G network, and serves more than 93 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 80,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, Nasdaq: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
About Acer Since its founding in 1976, Acer has achieved the goal of breaking the barriers between people and technology. Globally, Acer ranks No. 2 for total PCs and notebooks. A profitable and sustainable Channel Business Model is instrumental to the company's continuing growth, while its multi-brand approach effectively integrates Acer, Gateway, Packard Bell, and eMachines brands in worldwide markets. Acer strives to design environmentally friendly products and establish a green supply chain through collaboration with suppliers. Acer is proud to be a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Movement, including the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter and London 2012 Olympic Games. The Acer Group employs 7,000 people worldwide. 2009 revenues reached US$17.9 billion. See www.acer-group.com for more information.
Noticing a trend here? First we had the Infuse 4G from Samsung, and now we've got the Atrix 4G from Motorola featuring a whopping 1GB of RAM -- so it would seem this is the device we'd had rumored as the Olympus. Announced at AT&T's CES-based Developer Summit today, the phone is the first to be unveiled for the carrier's lineup with a dual-core processor. More details as we have them!
Robots, Arduino, and monsters are all very close to our new-age, gadget-loving hearts. The folks over at Union Bridge Labs have created a half-monster, half-machine dubbed the Yarn Monster. This little cubic beast has one job -- to eat yarn and shape it into a perfectly rolled ball of, well, yarn. It's powered by a ton of hardware, from a stepper motor to Arduino components to even a universal mounting hub. Instructions to control speed of the nom-noming are sent to the Arduino via XBee from a remotely connected potentiometer which can also reverse the direction of yarn-ball rolling. We encourage you to spend your hard-earned dough (about $130), buy the proper components and build one of these things to impress your loved ones. If not though, be sure to watch the video after the break.
iGUGU, the company behind Gamecore (and the company with a name that even a neonate can say) will be demonstrating its InterneTV product at CES this week. The PC-based solution allows users to watch and share any content on their HDTV, projector or monitor, via wireless USB. It also comes packed with an RF remote and seems simple enough that even the stock photo "hippie" above can figure it out! We'll let you know what we think when we get our hands on the device itself, but until that happens you'll have to make do with the PR. Luckily, it's after the break.
Show full PR text
iGUGU InterneTV Delivers the World of PC- and Internet-Based Content to the Television
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- iGUGU®, a global manufacturer of innovative entertainment technology products for consumers and business, will demonstrate InterneTV, an easy-to-use, affordable solution that enables consumers to stream the majority of all PC- and Internet-based content to the television, at the 2011 International CES (Central Hall, booth 14043) from Jan. 6-9, 2011.
Unlike most other Internet content streaming solutions, InterneTV is PC-based allowing the solution to stream virtually any content that can be viewed on the computer to a television in the living room or in the home theater using a compact, feature-rich handheld RF remote control. At the core of InterneTV is a powerful software application that aggregates both subscription-based and free content from hundreds of websites, making it easy and intuitive to search, access and view video content.
A content streaming solution is only as good as the type and amount of content that it can actually stream. CES attendees are invited to visit its booth at CES to directly compare iGUGU InterneTV with other leading Internet content streaming solutions. Whereas most other content streaming products limit users to viewing content from specific sources, the PC-based InterneTV solution enables users to view virtually ANY content that can be played on a PC.
The iGUGU InterneTV system consists of an innovative, compact handheld wireless remote control, wireless or cable-based options to connect the PC to the television, and an easy-to-use, powerful, software application that aggregates free and subscription-based content on the Internet, giving users the ability to search, catalog and play more content than any other solution on the market.
10:49AM "If you can imagine it, we can help deliver it." And that's it! Thanks for joining!
10:48AM Stay tuned for breakout sessions. Sorry, we wont' be there. We have to go see this guy about a thing.
10:45AM Jeff Bradley, the Senior VP of devices, is here to "wrap up". He gets a much more subdued entrance.
10:44AM AT*T Connection Kit for device developers. Includes six months of service, design guidelines, access to the AT&T control center, APIs / Sandbox, and it's available with hardware / modules.
10:42AM New categories. "New opportunities." Automotive, health care, gaming, tracking. Gives a nod to BMW's recently-announced connectivity.
10:41AM E-reader growth is exploding. One shining success story. Five million Kindles this year, 11.5 million by 2012 (according to Barclays Capital, not Amazon itself. Sorry, number crunchers.)
10:39AM 4 million new screens this past year. 1,500 non-traditional devices (not phones).
10:38AM Emerging Device group formed in 2008 to connect non-traditional devices to the network. "If it runs current... it should be connected."
10:36AM Another blast of video for Glenn Lurie, President of Emerging Devices
10:35AM Yep, still here. "We're out of time here," says Donovan, thus beginning what's hopefully the final wrap-up.
10:21AM Mullany pulls out a mystery tablet with Android 3.2 Ice Cream! Just kidding.
10:20AM Sorry, by Q&A, we just mean Donovan prompting the speakers to make compelling stump speeches about the business side of things.
10:19AM Makeshift Q&A with Matt Murphy (Kleiner Perkins), Michael Mullany (Sencha, and Sam Ramji (Apigee). At least we now know what the tables are for!
10:16AM A Collaborative Innovation program with "speed-date evaluations" (AT&T's words, not ours) for developers. 15 percent engagement rate out of the 150-plus speed-date evaluations in 2010. 400 more planned for this year.
10:13AM Looks like we'll be moving into the enterprise portion of this meeting. Apologies to those hoping for another Android device to pop up in this liveblog.
10:11AM "Some networks" ignored old networks and jumped straight to LTE. "The drop-off is jarring, and early reports is the transition is troublesome." Saucy, you are.
10:10AM HSPA+ upgrade is fifth wireless tech advance in the past few years. That includes (in order): GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, HSDPA, HSPA 7.2, "4G - HSPA+" and "4G-LTE" for the present and future. Expects nearly two-thirds broadband network on expanded backhaul.
10:09AM A number of tables and chairs are being brought out on stage while CTO John Donovan walks out.
10:08AM CMO David Christopher exits stage left.
10:07AM SDK trial in March. General availability in second half. Wanna sign up? developer.att.com/html5 -- hey, you're welcome.
10:06AM Developing a standards-based HTML5 SDK. Includes tools and samples needed to build across devices. Integrating AT&T carrier billing.
10:05AM On to HTML5. In second half of 2011, majority of AT&T smartphones (and a number of QMPs) should support HTML5.
10:05AM Christopher: Developers can now combine in-app purchases with carrier billing. More flexibility for premium services. "We'll make them easier for you to build them and bill for them." Yeah, he's a marketing guy.
10:03AM Asynchronous multiplayer (think: time trial "ghost").
10:02AM Open Feint CMO Eros Resmini takes the stage, demoing an iPhone racing title that using the SDK.
10:00AM Now onto gaming. Partnering with OpenFeint. SDK is free and available from developer site for Android devs.
9:59AM "Starting today, we're gonna be accepting submissions" for the alpha program developing u-verse apps. Grants you access and tools.
9:55AM Demo time. Hill is launching U-verse app from iPad for scheduling shows / DVR. New option, ComplemenTV. "So the iPad is basically asked what channel, what show you're on right now." It brings up information and purchase opportunities from Amazon. Now at Home Shopping Network, with the shopping page showing up for the product showing on the screen. Works with recordings, too.
9:53AM Now onto AT&T U-verse. "This morning we have a new technology to show you." Now letting developers create applications "that can easily connect mobile device to set-top box via WiFi." It'll complement DLNA with authentication, rich TV interface, and a "specific context" for application. Here comes VP of Ecosystem and Innovation Peter Hill.
9:51AM Rogers Communication in Canada has also committed to Brew MP.
9:50AM 3.2-inch capacitive touchscreen, "Sense experience". Five more QMPs due this year, all on Brew MP platform. "Write Once, Publish Often." No fragmentation.
9:49AM Quick-messaging phone (QMP) devices for those getting their feet wet in the smartphone scenes. A new lineup of devices with a consistent platform, Brew MP. First one will be the HTC Freestyle.
9:48AM Christpher's table of contents: Brew MP, U-Verse TV, Gaming, and HTML5. "The key enablers" for its motto Imagine, Create, Deliver.
9:47AM 12 new Android devices this year.
9:46AM "We offer the best Apple products. We offer the best BlackBery." He means the Torch, and makes a point to mention its positive sales.
9:45AM 4G roadmap. First half between 5 and 7 HSPA+ devices (including the three aforementioned devices / tablet and the previously announced pair of modems). Second half include LTE devices: phones, tablets, modems.
9:43AM First LTE tablet mid-summer, additional in second half. "It's too soon to share specifics on all these." Booooo.
9:43AM First 4G tablet coming from Motorola and will be here in second half (it's HSPA+, though, not LTE). Honeycomb, 10.1-inch NVIDIA Tegra 1GHz dual core processor. More to come at the Motorola event, apparently.
9:40AM De La Vega once again, rounding up the three (of 20, as we're once again reminded) 4G devices we should expect to see this year.
9:39AM HSPA+ CAT14 / 21 Mbps, 1.2 GHz Hummingbird, rear-facing 8MP camera with LED flash and a front-facing 1.3MP camera.
9:38AM Approximately 9mm thin, which as they'd like you to know, is about 2mm thicker than a standard pencil.
9:37AM Samsung President J.K. Shin takes the stage to unveil the Infuse, which yes, we saw hit the wire just before this event started. Just smile and nod for a few minutes.
9:36AM Chou pulls out the phone from his pocket. And in case you're wondering, that 4G is decidedly HSPA+. Chou is gone, De La Vega is back. Samsung up next with "AT&T's thinnest smartphone" with the largest display. 4.5-inch Super AMOLED, HTML5, and Android 2.2. Notice the trend? (Yes, no Gingerbread yet.)
9:33AM The conversation is turning to 4G. "3G is already providing great experience, but in this era, technology can be changed. Many people want more. People want to instantly access music, video, sports event, and social content which they are about." So that means we want speed and, at is were, freedom.
9:33AM "Features once seen as fancy extra are becoming standard." Nice to have are becoming must-have.
9:31AM Find your phone feature can ring the phone, lock the phone remotely, send a text message. They suggest offering a "generous reward" for returning a lost device. Protip!
9:30AM First to use HTCSense.com service. Going to "expand HTC experience beyond just phone... makes the smartphone even smarter."
9:29AM "A great new feature called fastboot." It boots fast.
9:28AM New personalized button menu, easier to make widgets.
9:28AM The new Sense rings loudly when it's in your bag, but knows to quiet down when you take it out of your bag.
9:26AM HTC Inspire 4G has the latest version of the "critically acclaimed" Sense.
9:26AM Chou is going through the current lineup. HTC Aria, the HTC Surround (yes, they're still proud of it), and now the HTC Inspire 4G. Surprise!
9:25AM Here comes HTC chief Peter Chou. Still no name on the new HTC device, it's a bit annoying how they're teasing specs (now twice) before giving the names.
9:24AM Ralph is back! He's building up HTC. The first device with next generation Sense. HTML5 support, a 4.3-inch display, Android 2.2
9:23AM And that's it for Jha -- after a teasing the 4PM Motorola press event, of course.
9:22AM Okay, we'll say it. This thing is insane. Can't wait to see how it handles in person.
9:22AM HD Dock gives you an HTPC-esque menu for couch-based perusing.
9:21AM Adobe Flash is included, of course. World's first qHD ("quarter HD," we believe) display.
9:21AM Mobile View seems to be just that, an emulator of the phone would be. B.O.B.'s "Magic" is blasting in the background. We get the feeling this song will be making the rounds quite a bit this year.
9:20AM Commercial time! Mobile View, Dial, Contacts, Entertainment Center is seen in the lower dock.
9:19AM Two USB ports, strong magnesium alloy, weighs just 2.4 pounds.
9:19AM A 13.9mm device, thin laptop that you dock the Atrix into behind the monitor. You now have full browsing capabilities. Mozilla Firefox (full, not web) browsing.
9:17AM Motorola Webtop application, allows for full keyboard and mouse experience. Demo time!
9:17AM Oh yeah, and there's Motoblur, if you haven't noticed from the last picture.
9:16AM 1930mAh battery, 10.9mm design.
9:16AM 1GB RAM! Whoa!
9:16AM "Today we are partnering to create a brand new category for consumers. We think it's a new paradigm for mobile."
9:15AM Motorola Mobility's Sanjay Jha takes the stage, new company name and all.
9:14AM Motorla's "most powerful smartphone ever." AT&T's first dual core processor, HTML5 support, Android 2.2, the Atrix 4G.
9:12AM De La Vega just name-dropped Apple among the list of upcoming "4G" device platforms (again, LTE and HSPA+) -- although he could just be reminding the audience that they'll still have the iPhone.
9:11AM "We offer the most choices and operating systems and have the most smartphone customers of any US carrier... we plan to introduce 20 new 4G devices this year." That includes, apparently, HSPA+ for the first half and LTE for the second.
9:10AM Ralph de la Vega is calling both HSPA+ and LTE 4G networks. That's quite a disparity.
9:09AM Plan is to launch LTE services in middle of this year.
9:08AM "Let's discuss [those] plans." HSPA+ deployment completed to about 100 percent of the mobile broadband network. Accelerated LTE deployment largely complete by end of 2013.
9:07AM "2011 is going to be a defining year for our industry and our country because of 4G. Today we're going to outline AT&T's plans."
9:06AM "The authorities request that we ask you to look at this chart." Cautionary language concerning forward-looking statements. What an introductory buzz kill.
9:05AM Introduction video is a serious of geometric shapes floating about. "Create, Deliver, Imagine." Cue Ralph de La Vega to the stage.
9:05AM And here we go.
9:04AM AT&T may be running a few minutes behind, but Samsung's embargo isn't. It just announced the crazy thin 4.5-inch Samsung Infuse 4G with a super AMOLED screen. You should check it out on Engadget.com, awesome site.
9:02AM We just found some seats. The Large Overhead Voice says we'll be starting in a few minutes, but there's still quite a few empty seats and just as many people trying to shuffle inside.
The AT&T developer summit doesn't have the most alluring name, but last year's event brought us news about Android and Palm devices hitting the carrier, so who knows what to expect this time around. We're here all the same, just in case, so join us vicariously!
First introduced just last year on the Wave, it feels like Super AMOLED was just starting to get its sea legs... but here we go again: Samsung's latest handset -- announced today in collaboration with AT&T at CES -- is the first to tout "Super AMOLED Plus" technology that features a 50 percent boost in sub-pixel count, promising improvements both in contrast and outdoor readability. Maybe more importantly, the display clocks in at a whopping 4.5 inches, besting HTC's 4.3-inch range (the EVO 4G, Desire HD, and likely the Thunderbolt) without getting dangerously close to Dell Streak territory. It's got an 8 megapixel camera on back paired with a 1.3 megapixel shooter up front, a 1.2GHz single-core Hummingbird processor, and still somehow promises to be the thinnest smartphone on AT&T when it launches at a to-be-determined date. Now, the controversy: despite the name, the Infuse 4G apparently doesn't have a hint of LTE -- it's HSPA+, which means AT&T's now playing the same game as T-Mobile.
We've had a brief chance to play with an early Infuse 4G dummy unit, so we weren't able to turn it on, but we got a pretty good impression of how it feels. Basically, we came away encouraged that 4.5 inches isn't going to feel too big for practical use -- if you're accustomed to something like an EVO, you probably won't skip a beat (that's undoubtedly due in part to the fact that the Infuse seems to be quite a bit thinner). We're told the tastefully textured matte rear cover that we saw wasn't final, but we're crossing our fingers that the retail unit doesn't diverge far from what they've done here, because it felt exceptionally high-quality and looked a whole lot better than the typical glossy plastic on the existing Galaxy S series. Speaking of Galaxy S, the Infuse is described as "a Galaxy S phone" -- so yeah, that brand isn't going away any time soon. Software-wise, we obviously weren't able to get a feel for speed on the non-functional model, but you can expect the usual TouchWiz skin atop Android 2.2; sure, Gingerbread would've been nice at launch, but you can dry your tears on that 1.2GHz silicon.
Sony Ericsson, Citizen, and others have been taking occasional shots at integrating Bluetooth into wrist-bound baubles for several years now, but the problems have been pretty obvious -- Bluetooth wasn't really optimized to transfer nibble-sized chunks of information while sipping almost imperceptible amounts of power, so you end up with a watch that dies in hours or days rather than years. That's where Casio comes into play, showing off a prototype watch here at CES that makes use of Bluetooth Low Energy to connect to your phone and keep you abreast of calls and emails without the hassle of pulling the handset out of your pocket (or, worse yet, your belt-mounted holster). You can also silence alarms just by tapping on the watch, get your time synced, and generally look awesome while doing it -- if it were a production unit, that is. Problem is that there aren't any phones on the market with Bluetooth 4.0 support just yet, but Casio's confident enough that they're in the pipeline to say that they want to product their first BLE-enabled retail watches in 2011. The company is claiming two years of battery life off a single coin cell assuming twelve hours of use a day... so yeah, the benefits for this type of product are pretty clear. Follow the break for the full press release.
Show full PR text
CASIO DEVELOPS WATCH THAT COMMUNICATES WITH SMARTPHONES VIA BLUETOOTH® LOW ENERGY LINK
Prototype Features the Latest Wireless Technology with Very Low Power Consumption
LAS VEGAS, JANUARY 5, 2011 - Casio Computer Co., Ltd., announced today that it has developed a watch using Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) technology, the new low-power-consumption version of the short-range wireless networking standard*. A prototype of the watch, sharing a two-way data link with a smartphone, will be exhibited at Casio's booth (#11006) at the International Consumer Electronics Show to be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 6-9, 2011.
Casio has been redefining the wristwatch for years by applying the latest technologies. Now, Casio's application of BLE positions the company to create new possibilities for the way people use their watches. Taking advantage of the low power consumption of BLE, the new watch powers wireless communication functions with a single, ordinary button-cell battery, and without consuming any more battery life than a conventional wristwatch. Users can wear it every day just like they normally do, without the hassle of recharging which is required by typical mobile devices. Battery life is estimated at approximately two years based on the prototype model, assuming that the Bluetooth wireless communication function is used for 12 hours per day.
Casio's new prototype communicates with BLE-equipped smartphones, which will be available in the near future and will connect to networks of various kinds of devices. As the wireless link between smartphones and watches gains in adoption, and as the universe of smartphone applications continues to grow, Casio expects to see new possibilities for watches in everyday life.
Casio aims to produce its first Bluetooth Low Energy Watch in 2011. Meanwhile, Casio will call for partner companies to develop applications compatible with smartphones and other household devices in such areas as sports, health, home entertainment, security, and communication with family and friends.
Overview of Casio's Prototype Bluetooth Low Energy Watch Main features: • Wireless communication is powered by the button-cell battery used in small devices and watches • Battery life with the communication functions is the same as previously released watches • The watch case measures a comfortable 53.4 (D) x 44.4 (W) x 12.8 (T) millimeters Main functions: • The alert signal notifies the wearer of calls and e-mail messages arriving on the networked smartphone • Alarm and vibration functions of a smartphone can be activated using a watch button • A smartphone's ring and vibration alerts can be stopped by tapping the watch • Accurate time information can be transmitted from a smartphone to the watch to ensure correct time
Casio's demonstration of the Bluetooth Low Energy Watch uses a prototype of a Bluetooth Low Energy smartphone. The demonstration will be conducted at Casio's Booth (#11006) at 2011 International CES, in cooperation with NEC Casio Mobile Communications.
Don't ever knock the SD Association for lagging behind. A scant seven months after the aforesaid entity revealed the UHS-I specifications, in flies the predicted successor at CES. UHS-II is a newfangled bus-interface system that promises high-def recording speeds of up to 312 megabytes per second, enabling pro shooters and videographers to actually consider an SDHC or SDXC-based camera rather than relying solely on CompactFlash or SSD. The protocol will be an integral part of the SD 4.00 specification that's going out to members later in the quarter, and naturally, it'll only be useful to SDXC and SDHC cards. We're looking at a 3x increase in transfer rates, and these same upticks will be gracing UHS-II microSDXC and microSDHC cards, too. Best of all, UHS-II cards will be fully backwards compatible with older devices and readers, as the speed increase simply relies on a new row of pins on a familiar form factor. In related news, a new eBook SD application has been announced, though the details surrounding it are murky at best. So far as we can tell, eBook SD cards will have their content pretty well contained, giving publishers the ability to rest easy while still getting content out to the myriad products that can understand SD. Peek the full release after the break.
Show full PR text
SD ASSOCIATION TRIPLES SPEEDS WITH UHS-II AND INTRODUCES NEW eBOOK SPECIFICATION
New pin design ratchets bus speeds up to 312 MB/s, eBook spec opens books, graphic novels to secure portability
LAS VEGAS – CES Booth South Hall 4 # 36226 – Jan. 5, 2011 – SD gives consumers data transfer speeds that exceed even the most demanding high-def recording needs today with an important leap in SD bus-interface speeds up to 312 Megabytes per second with its new UHS-II bus-interface specification. These extraordinary transfer speeds give manufacturers the flexibility to develop new features and markets for mobile phones and other consumer electronics strengthened by the world-leading memory card standard. The SD Association also announced today eBook, an application specification that gives eBook publishers access to billions of SD-equipped mobile phones and other portable devices.
"UHS-II increases SD performance and value and delivers immediate impact on manufacturer innovation and consumer creativity," said Norm Frentz, chairman of the SD Association. "We've tripled bus-interface speeds from last year's UHS-I development, and we plan to double UHS-II speeds in the future."
UHS-II: Available exclusively on SDXC and SDHC products Fast and reliable, the new SD 4.00 specification available to members this quarter turns SD memory cards into high-performing storage systems and consumers' video and still cameras into professional-level equipment. Tripled bus-interface speeds give manufacturers more flexible design options, including low voltage and low power consumption, for large and small SD devices without compromising data transfer rates. Consumers will be able to increase the power and possibility of their mobile phone at home and work, recording high-definition video directly onto their UHS-II memory card and backing up data. Well-known SD benefits are heightened with UHS bus interface, providing faster continuous shooting speed for digital still cameras and higher resolution movie recordings in video cameras, including 3D HD. Since it is fully backwards compatible, devices supporting UHS bus interface will accept the billions of existing SD memory cards in the market today.
New high-speed interface signals are assigned on the second row of pins on UHS-II SDXC and SDHC memory cards. This new speed option will be available in full-size SDHC and SDXC memory cards and microSDHC and microSDXC form factors and does not change the physical size or shape of the cards.
Both UHS-I and UHS-II make the massive storage specified for SDHC and SDXC manageable and even more portable. Ultra High Speed was announced in June 2010 and UHS-I delivers top bus-interface speeds of 104 Megabytes per second. UHS bus interfaces are backwards compatible and are exclusive to SDXC and SDHC products. All UHS-equipped memory cards achieve greatest performance when paired with corresponding UHS devices. Both SDXC UHS-I and SDHC UHS-I products are already in retail outlets around the world. eBook: Expanding functionality of mobile devices "Our new eBook application brings the digital book niche to the global masses. It opens broad consumer access to eBook content and turns billions of existing SD mobile phones and devices into eReaders," Frentz said. "SD continues to evolve its capabilities to support voracious consumer demand for portable movies, television broadcasts, high-definition home videos and now full-color books."
The eBook application increases the value of SD-slotted mobile phones and other display devices. Publishers and readers alike will benefit from full-color, illustration-intensive books like graphic novels available as pre-loaded and portable content. The application lets consumers create an expandable digital library and view content on other SD devices. It also opens new and secure opportunities for content publishers who are currently limited by downloaded content restricted for use only on specific devices. SD application specifications are designed so SD memory cards can be used in all SD devices.
The Association has two videos showing optimized uses for the variety of SD memory cards available today at www.sdcard.org/videos. It also offers an online resource, www.sdcard.org/cardchoice, for users to explore the variety of SD memory cards types for new and existing devices.
SD Association The SD Association is a global ecosystem of more than 1,000 technology companies charged with setting interoperable SD standards. The association encourages the development of consumer electronic, wireless communication, digital imaging and networking products that utilize market-leading SD technology. The SD standard is the number one choice for consumers and has earned more than 80 percent of the memory card market with its reliable interoperability and its easy-to-use format. Today, mobile phones, Blu-ray players, HDTVs, audio players, automotive multimedia systems, handheld PCs, digital cameras and digital video cameras feature SD interoperability. For more information about SDA or to join, please visit the association's web site, www.sdcard.org.
Looking for a few peripherals to go along with all of this new gear being unveiled at CES? Have a gander at this. Xtrememac has just rolled out yet another rechargeable battery pack / protective case for Apple's iPhone 4, with this particular monster having a 2300mAh battery, an integrated kickstand and an on / off switch. The InCharge Mobile will go for $79.99, putting it in direct competition from the folks at Mophie. Next up is the InCharge Auto USB, which is a somewhat plain in-car USB charger that saves itself with ten watts of output -- plenty to juice up your iPad as it acts as the Road Trip Jukebox. The InCharge Auto Plus doubles it up with a second USB port, while the InCharge Auto AUX tosses in a 3.5mm auxiliary jack for easy connecting to one's line-in port. Those three will sell for $24.99, $29.99 and $49.99 in order of mention, and the trio should be available to ship right about... now.
Show full PR text
XtremeMac™ Unveils InCharge™ Series of Charging Solutions for iPad, iPod and iPhone
See the new chargers at Pepcom's Digital Experience or the Bellagio Grand Ballrooms during CES
Sunrise, FL – January 5, 2011 – XtremeMac, a leading designer and manufacturer of accessories and audio solutions for Apple devices, is pleased to announce four new additions to its popular InCharge™ series during CES. The InCharge series are designed to keep your iPod, iPhone and iPad charged and playing at home and on the go. The new introductions are the InCharge Mobile, Auto USB, Auto Plus and Auto AUX.
InCharge Mobile is a low profile, sleek rechargeable battery pack and protective case. It boasts one of the largest battery capacities for iPhone 4 chargers on the market at 2300 mAh, the equivalent of one full charge. Features include an integrated stand for landscape viewing and FaceTime chatting, LED battery status indicator, on/off switch for battery conservation and a micro USB cable for charging and syncing.
The three new InCharge Auto solutions for the car each offer a compact design, deliver 10 watts of power, and provide a distinguishing feature for added functionality. The InCharge Auto USB is equipped with a detachable USB to 30 Pin cable for charging and syncing Apple products. The InCharge Auto Plus provides users with a second USB port to simultaneously charge an iPhone, iPod or iPad and another USB powered device. Finally, the InCharge Auto AUX features a 3.5mm auxiliary jack and cable allowing users to play music through their car stereo line input while charging an iPhone, iPod or iPad, replacing the need for an FM transmitter.
InCharge Mobile, Auto USB, Auto Plus and Auto AUX are available now for US$79.99, US$24.99, US$29.99 and US$49.99 MSRP respectively. These new chargers are available at www.XtremeMac.com.
XpanD has already helped push 3D at home forward with glasses that worked with 3DTVs from all manufacturers, and not it appears the next step will be 3D glasses design to adjust to all people. Besides being lighter and having a new design, the Youniversal glasses it's releasing in 2011 feature Bluetooth or USB connectivity to iPhone or Android devices that allow their performance to be calibrated to any particular user's specifications. We didn't get a chance to test them out at the press event, but as you can see in the gallery, things like transition time can be adjusted to improve brightness or reduce ghosting. No word on price yet but the company expects these to be at the high end of the market compared to its current $129 X103s when they arrive in April. Oh, and if you're jumping on the passive glasses bandwagon like its old pal Vizio? There were some harsh words for the technology there, claiming it made broadcast 3D look SD with its loss of resolution, viewing angles and reduced quality on 2D HD content.
XPAND Presents the World's First Personalized 3D Electronic Eyewear At CES 2011
LAS VEGAS, Nevada – XPAND today introduced the new YOUNIVERSAL series 3D electronic eyewear that optimizes the 3D experience by modifying the 3D parameters specifically for each user and for different 3D environments. The high-end electronic eyewear offers unprecedented personal optimization, full HD 3D performance, advanced interoperability between all 3D devices and market-leading comfort and style.
Using a specialized smart phone app, XPAND YOUNIVERSAL glasses can be optimized to address the fact that every human's eyes and facial structure are unique and that each user's viewing requirements and environment are different. Available in black, gray and red in male and female sizes, the new YOUNIVERSAL high-end glasses will begin shipping in April 2011 and will communicate with Infrared (IR), Bluetooth (BT), Radio Frequency (RF) and DLP-Link. The smart phone app will initially be available for Apple iPhone™ and Google Android™ platforms.
"The YOUNIVERSAL glasses put YOU in universal," said Maria Costeira, CEO of XPAND. "Recognizing that no two people view 3D in the exact same way, we have designed our electronic eyewear to comprehensively address the unique differences in people's vision, the viewing environment and selection of 3D devices. In doing so, we're creating the ultimate 3D experience!"
Artistically designed by the acclaimed Gigodesign studio, XPAND YOUNIVERSAL electronic eyewear provides remarkable comfort and style. XPAND's approach to the development of the YOUNIVERSAL glasses is one of no compromise. "The glasses feature the best-and only the best-innovations," Costeira added. "Every parameter from viewer optimization, interoperability, unit weight and comfort was evaluated and XPAND made groundbreaking improvements in every category. This new high-end product starts a new era of 3D lifestyle. XPAND proves once again that 3D quality is essential. Anything short of full HD 3D performance is a weak, unacceptable compromise!"
The new YOUNIVERSAL glasses are not simply the lightest active shutter 3D glasses in the marketplace, they're also the fastest by a significant margin. Moreover, their ability to operate across so many different communication protocols brings a new level of universality to the 3D experience. "XPAND is deeply committed to maximum 3D quality," said Ami Dror, XPAND's Chief Strategy Officer. "Only active 3D glasses can provide full HD 3D experiences, but this is only the first step in 3D evolution. Our YOUNIVERSAL 3D glasses are personally optimized to the individual human visual capabilities with maximum comfort and customizability that allows them to work in all modern 3D environments."
For more information on XPAND, please visit www.xpandcinema.com
About XPAND: The global leader in the 3D market, XPAND Universal 3D Glasses are the only 3D glasses that work with all the 3DTV brands and models, 3D computers, 3D gaming consoles and cinema. Its 3D glasses are affordable for cinema owners and home users while providing 3D quality that was originally available only at a professional cost. XPAND has the extraordinary combination of experienced and visionary leadership, state-of-the-art technology, and economies of scale that will provide a backbone for the cinema and consumer electronics industries as they further transition into the 3D future. X6D Limited is a global company whose products and services are marketed under the XPAND brand name. XPAND was created by industry veterans in theatrical exhibition, entertainment, film production and distribution, and specialty film and digital technologies and is funded by a European investment fund. XPAND technology is used by over 3,200 3D cinemas in more than 50 countries and is the 3D solution of choice for post-production houses, educational and professional 3D applications. XPAND designs, manufactures and OEMs a range of consumer electronics 3D solutions that are driving the 3D revolution.
Who says netbooks and tablets can't live in harmony? In addition to its unnamed tablet, Toshiba has brought along two 10.1-inch netbooks to CES. The first -- the Mini NB505 -- is really no surprise, and similar to the one released overseas, it has an Intel Atom N455 processor, 1GB of RAM, Windows 7 Starter, and a 250GB hard drive. At $300, it's officially Tosh's cheapest netbook, but we actually have to say the spotted, rubbery lid, which is available in five colors, is a nice addition. On the higher netbook end -- yes, there is still such a thing -- Toshiba has updated the Mini NB305 with an blue, aluminum lid and a dual-core Atom N550 processor. For $380, you get a 250GB hard drive, 1GB of RAM, and that same great chiclet keyboard and touchpad combo. Alright, so isn't a Libretto W105 refresh, but hey, you can't say Toshiba's lacking in the mobile computing options department.
It may have already tipped its hand, but LG has now just gotten fully official with its latest flagship Android phone, the Optimus Black (previously known as the LG "B"), which packs a 4-inch NOVA display that promises to be both bright (700 nits) and energy efficient. What's more, despite being just 9.2 mm slim (and tapering down to 6 mm), the phone also packs 1,500mAh battery that promises a full day of use, and you'll get a 2 megapixel front-facing camera in addition to another one of unspecified resolution presumably 'round back. According to LG, the phone will ship with Android 2.2 (plus LG's Optimus UI 2.0), but get a Gingerbread update at some point in the future. Head on past the break for the complete press release, and look for the phone itself to roll out globally in the first half of the year.
Show full PR text
LG introduces next generation smartphone design and display with LG Optimus Black
New LG Optimus Black Delivers Breakthrough NOVA Display Technology in the World's Slimmest Smartphone Device
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) announced today it will unveil a new Android smartphone, LG Optimus Black, at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) from January 6th in Las Vegas. Providing users with a dramatically brighter 4-inch NOVA display in the world's slimmest 9.2 mm mobile device, LG Optimus Black creates a one-of-a-kind user experience unlike anything before.
Available for the first time in the mobile market, LG Optimus Black's NOVA display is designed to be the brightest, clearest and most readable among mobile screens with 700 nits of brightness for optimal visibility. LG Optimus Black provides users with an easier and more natural experience when browsing the web, reading emails, or writing documents with higher levels of brightness and pure white tones that deliver true black and white colors for ideal handset viewing. NOVA technology featured on LG Optimus Black also enables users to maintain visibility whether indoors or outdoors under strong sunlight.
In addition to greater luminosity, the NOVA display on LG Optimus Black also radically reduces power consumption by 50 percent during general indoor use compared to a conventional LCD. Similarly, AMOLED consumes twice as much power as NOVA to display a full white screen, the most frequently used color scheme for web browsing. Combined with the 1500 mAh battery of the LG Optimus Black, users will have enough power for their daily needs, even at maximum brightness settings.
Users will never be out of style with the LG Optimus Black's ultra slim 9.2 mm design. Making a strong visual statement, LG Optimus Black weighs only 109g and offers sleek lines and smooth edges that improve handheld grip. Tapering down to the world's thinnest smartphone profile of 6.0 mm, LG Optimus Black's subtle back arch helps to create the illusion of even greater slimness. Unique to the LG Optimus Black, the flush and flawless finish of the front display is achieved by innovatively hiding the Invisible Receiver behind the edges of the phone.
"We are excited to introduce this stylish new Android smartphone and expect the LG Optimus Black to play a key role in the mobile market," said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "LG Optimus Black reflects our core strengths of advanced technology, in both display and design, offering the world's brightest screen and the world's slimmest design in an attractive and smart package."
The LG Optimus Black also offers a set of smarter features designed for easy and faster access to important apps and content. Optimus UI 2.0 lets users directly access messages, emails and missed calls from the locked screen with just one single finger tap. The Gesture UI offers more intuitive commands, including lifting, shaking and tapping, for taking calls, entering camera mode, or enjoying music. LG Optimus Black also introduces the world's first Wi-Fi Direct™ for quick and high-quality data transfer between mobile devices and adopts the world's first 2MP front-facing camera.
All LG Optimus Black features are available on the Android 2.2 Froyo platform with Android 2.3 Gingerbread upgrade capability. Utilizing the 2MP front-facing camera, LG Optimus Black allows users to utilize video telephony functions of higher quality after upgrading to Android's Gingerbread.
The LG Optimus Black will be rolled out globally in the first half of 2011.
Thanks to a couple of carefully planned slips over in South Korea, hardly anything about LG's CES 2011 is apt to take you fully by surprise. But if you just so happened to disconnect over the holidays, we'll break it all down below to ensure you remain firmly in the loop.
For starters, the outfit seems pretty darn proud of its new SmartTV platform. Hinted at last month, this system enables HDTVs, Blu-ray players and other sources to access all sorts of streaming media, apps and even provides users with a way to surf the web. Four main sections are given -- TV Live, Premium Content, TV Apps and a Launch Bar -- and for TV models, owners will control things with a wave of the hand (read: Magic Remote). SmartTV picks up where NetCast left off, offering access to Vudu, Netflix, YouTube, CinemaNow, Hulu Plus, Amazon Video on Demand, NHL Gamecenter, NBA Game Live and MLB.tv. This here functionality is baked into quite a few of the outfit's 2011 HDTVs, but should own an older model...
Then there's the all-new SmartTV upgrader! The ST600 is a minuscule set-top box that aims to transform any TV into a SmartTV. So long as your set has an HDMI input, you'll be able to access the content mentioned above. But, of course, it's on you to source your own Magic Remote.
If it's an all-new TV you're after, the company is also revealing its 2011 LED and LCD HDTV line. Nary a one is different than those we heard about last week, but at least you can now rest easy knowing that the LW9500 and LW7700 Nano Full HD 3D models will indeed see a stateside release this month. The best news here is the use of polarizing glasses -- none of that headache-inducing active shutter mess. There are 13 new LED LCD models in all, with nine of 'em shipping with the SmartTV platform embedded. Unfortunately, LG's not dishing out pricing information on these bad boys just yet.
Not so keen on picking up an LCD? Plasma still lives, you know! LG's rolling out its 1080p Infinia PZ950 and PZ750 lines here at CES, with both available in 50-inch and 60-inch class sizes. Both lines come equipped with the SmartTV platform, a gesture-based Magic Motion remote andl as a free Android / iPhone app if you'd rather use your phone as a remote. The 50- / 60-inch PZ550 is saddling with NetCast 1.0, but it -- along with the PW350, PZ950 and PZ750 lines -- can handle 3D imagery. Sadly, LG's also straying from providing pricing details on these.
Wrapping things up, the company is debuting its 2011 line of networked Blu-ray players and home theater systems. The BD690 supports 3D BD playback and ships with an inbuilt 250GB HDD and the SmartTV platform. The majority of LG's line also includes WiFi, DLNA streaming support and a MusicID feature by Gracenote that enables consumers to play a song from a movie of TV show by mashing a single button on the remote. The BD670, BD650, BD640, BD630 and BD650 are also seeing the light of day, with the latter being LG's first portable BD deck.
Finally, LG snuck in an image (seen above) of a 3D mobile TV prototype. We've no details whatsoever to go on, but you can rest assured we'll be scouring the show floor in search of just that.
For more information on all of the goods here, head on past the break for the full releases. Don't expect to find any pricing information, though.
LG ELECTRONICS MAKES IT EASY TO GO SMART WITH NEW SMARTTV OFFERINGS
User-friendly Dashboard and Motion Control Magic Remote Provide Easy Access to Premium Content and LG App Store
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG), a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, unveiled its new LG SmartTV platform at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205). The unique platform provides access to thousands of movies, customizable apps, videos and the ability to browse the Web through an easy to navigate user interface and uncomplicated point and click remote system*.
A simple dashboard is the gateway to the LG SmartTV experience. With just four main sections – TV Live, Premium Content, TV Apps and a Launch Bar – viewers are never more than a few clicks from a vast variety of content.
For TV models, selecting features is as easy as the wave of the hand with the motion controlled Magic Remote*. The remote is operated by simply pointing it at the screen, moving the cursor to the desired option and clicking on the selection. A keyboard is not needed, but a QWERTY keyboard app is available for download on Android smartphones or iPhone.
"LG SmartTV provides viewers with endless options on their television, however, if these entertainment features are difficult to access or select, consumers will not truly enjoy the technology," said Jay Vandenbree, senior vice president, Home Electronics, LG Electronics USA. "We have designed our LG SmartTV platform to be as easy and simple to use as possible, so that viewers spend their time engaging with their television, rather than navigating it."
Building upon the pioneering NetCast Entertainment Access offering, LG's SmartTV platform provides access to endless entertainment options from providers including**:
• VUDU– Allows consumers to buy or rent from an extensive catalog of more than 2,000 high-definition movies and TV titles without monthly fees or additional hardware. It also is the only online service to offer movies in 1080p. • Netflix – Updated with Netflix 2.0, consumers can now stream thousands of movies without a PC. • YouTube – Instantly streams millions of Web videos directly from the Internet. • CinemaNow – Allows consumers to browse from the CinemaNow premium content catalog and instantly stream purchased or rented movies and popular TV shows. • Hulu Plus – Subscribers have access to back seasons or full runs of some of TV's greatest shows. • Amazon Video on Demand – Allows consumers to view more than 75,000 hit movies and television shows instantly. • NHL Gamecenter – Hockey fans can stay up to date with player profiles, stats and live scores. • NBA Game Live – NBA fans can follow their favorite team on and off the court with live game broadcasts, stats, scores and schedules. • MLB.TV – Streams all regular season games in HD quality and provides in-game stats and fantasy tracker.
The LG App Store is also populated with hundreds of applications for download. Additionally, the platform includes a Web browser so users no longer need to turn on their laptop to access the Internet. With this feature, news, reviews, and a host of other content can be viewed on the television screen. (Web browser available on LG SmartTV models and LG Smart TV Upgrader only).
LG's Smart Share function allows users to wirelessly stream content from their PCs and other compatible devices for viewing on their television screen. Smart Share also includes Media Link, which provides additional information, such as cover art or liner notes, for content being streamed.
LG SmartTV is available on a range of LG's new LED, LCD and plasma HDTVs, including: LK530, LV3700, LV5500, LW5600, LW6500, LW7700, LW9500, LZ9700, PZ750 and PZ950. The platform is also available on a number of Blu-ray Disc players and Home Theater offerings, including: BD650, BD670, BD690, LHB336, LHB536 and LHB976. For consumers who are not looking to purchase a new television but would like to access the LG SmartTV technology, LG also has introduced the LG SmartTV Upgrader, a set-top box that provides any television with an HDMI input the ability to access endless amounts of content including movies, sports, television programming, music and premium applications.
Show full PR text
NEW LG SMARTTV UPGRADER MAKES EVERY TV A SMART TV
Combines Web Browser, Premium Content and LG Apps With a User-Friendly Interface
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 – LG Electronics introduced its new LG SmartTV Upgrader (ST600), an easy solution for transforming any TV into a Smart TV, today at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205). The Upgrader gives any television with an HDMI input the ability to access endless amounts of content including movies, sports, television programming, music and premium applications, all through an easy to navigate user interface*.
The LG SmartTV Upgrader also offers a Web browser so viewers no longer need to turn on their laptop to access the Internet. With this feature, news, reviews and a host of other content can be viewed on the television screen.
"LG Smart TV is an exciting innovation and our LG SmartTV Upgrader provides an affordable option for consumers to adopt this new technology," said Jay Vandenbree, senior vice president, LG Electronics USA. "Now any TV can be 'Something Better' with virtually unlimited content options."
Building upon the pioneering NetCast Entertainment Access offering, the LG SmartTV platform provides access to endless entertainment options from providers including*:
VUDU– Allows consumers to buy or rent from an extensive catalog of more than 2,000 high-definition movies and TV titles without monthly fees or additional hardware. It also is the only online service to offer movies in 1080p. Netflix – Updated with Netflix 2.0, consumers can now stream thousands of movies without a PC. YouTube – Instantly streams millions of Web videos directly from the content catalog and instantly stream purchased or rented movies and popular TV shows. Hulu Plus – Subscribers have access to back seasons or full runs of some of TV's greatest shows. Amazon Video on Demand – Allows consumers to view more than 75,000 hit movies and television shows instantly. NHL Gamecenter – Hockey fans can stay up to date with player profiles, stats and live scores. NBA Game Live – NBA fans can follow their favorite team on and off the court with live game broadcasts, stats, scores and schedules. MLB.TV – Streams all regular season games in HD quality and provides in- game stats and fantasy tracker.
The LG App Store is also populated with hundreds of applications for download. The user- friendly interface can be easily navigated by a remote control with finger touch pad or smart phone with an Android or iPhone QWERTY keyboard application.
LG's Smart Share function allows users to wirelessly stream content from their PCs and other compatible devices for viewing on their television screen. Smart Share also includes Media Link, which provides additional information, such as cover art or liner notes, for content being streamed. The Upgrader includes built-in WiFi and uses an HDMI connection.
Show full PR text
LG ELECTRONICS REDEFINES HOME ENTERTAINMENT WITH BROAD LINE OF FULL-FEATURED LED AND LCD HDTVs
New LED Technology, Combined with 3D, SmartTV and Enhanced Picture Quality, Delivers Uncompromised Options for Home Theater Enthusiasts
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 – LG Electronics today introduced its 2011 LED and LCD HDTVs – led by advanced new display technology, versatile new 3D viewing options and internet-connected "Smart TV" capabilities – at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205).
The LG LED and LCD HDTV 2011 lineup combines slim depth and bezel design with enhanced connectivity and abundant content options. Leading the way to the ultimate home entertainment experience, the LW9500 and LW7700 sets are LG's first NANO FULL LED 3D-ready models available in the United States. Setting a new standard in 3D comfort, the LW6500 and LW5600 sets will be LG's first models available for home entertainment consumers containing polarized LG Cinema 3D technology. LG's Cinema 3D offers a theater-like experience at home with lightweight glasses, crisp images and clear wide-angle viewing.
INFINIA is the flagship of LG's 21-model LED HDTV* line – including nine new series of LED HDTVs and four new series of LCD HDTVs. Leading these introductions is the
NANO FULL LED series that pushes the boundaries of viewing pleasure with NANO Lighting Technology, which produces bright, clear and smooth picture. An extremely thin film printed with a proprietary light dispersion pattern and combined with a full array of LEDs disperses light more evenly across the screen, creating pictures that are brighter and more uniform than conventional edge-lit LED sets. What's more, an Anti-Reflection provide a crystal clear picture.
The LW9500 and LW7700 were recognized with CES 2011 Innovations Awards, including the "Best of Innovations" distinction in the Video Displays category for the LW9500.
Setting Premier Expectations Broadening consumer entertainment options, LG's latest series of HDTVs gives consumers superior picture quality, advanced energy saving options and flexible access to content- on-demand. LG's LED HDTVs challenge consumers' current perceptions of home entertainment by illustrating what's possible with superior display technology.
LG's NANO FULL LED and Full LED Slim series (models LW9500, LW7700 and LZ9700) are expected to achieve THX 2D and 3D Display Certification* – the industry standard for having the correct gamma, luminance, and color temperature. To earn THX 3D display certification, these models passed more than 400 laboratory tests evaluating left and right eye images for color accuracy, cross-talk, viewing angles and video processing performance. In addition to THX 3D Display Certification, this series had to pass THX certification for their superior picture quality in 2D, which must be achieved before passing THX 3D Display Certification. THX Certification ensures that consumers bring home an uncompromised HD experience with picture quality the way the director intended. NANO FULL LED and FULL LED Slim 3D works with the use of active shutter glasses and an RF emitter built into the television.
Connectivity Nine out of 13 of the new LED LCD series boast a connectivity package with a variety of entertainment options, including the brand new LG SmartTV*. LG SmartTV is an browse the Web, all organized in a simple to use interface. And when consumers can just point and choose selections with LG's unique motion-controlled Magic Motion Remote control, it's even simpler.
LG also has incorporated the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) technology across all SmartTV-enabled HDTVs. DLNA allows consumers to access content stored on other DLNA-certified devices within the home, such as computers or an LG NAS device, making content options almost limitless.
Providing easy options for connecting to the Internet, in addition to the wired Ethernet jack, all LG SmartTV-enabled sets can integrate into a wireless home network by using a
USB wireless broadband adaptor (included). All LG SmartTV models also support multi- media playback from a connected USB device including photos (JPEG), music (MP3) and video (DivX HD).
Energy Savings Understanding consumers' desire for products that reduce their household energy costs, most of LG's LED HDTVs have a variety of energy-saving features, such as Intelligent Sensor, to automatically calibrate and optimize brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the ambient light in the room, saving on energy output under most circumstances. Additionally, ISFccc calibration options allow consumers to work with a professional to set "day" and "night" levels for optimal viewing and brightness levels. All of LG's 2011 LED series also qualify for ENERGY STAR® certification.
In total, LG unveiled 13 new series of LED and LCD HDTV models for consumers – creating a robust HDTV line up of advanced picture quality, wireless technology and diverse screen sizes. Full details on the series are below:
INFINIA LZ9700 (72-inch class size*) – LG's largest consumer TV, Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled HDTV features Full LED Slim technology with Local Dimming, TruMotion 480Hz and THX 3D and 2D Display Certification (pending). Also includes LG SmartTV with Magic Remote, DLNA, Wi-Fi capability (adaptor included) and Smart Energy Saving features.
INFINIA LW9500 Series (55- and 60-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled HDTV features LG's thinnest design with ultra-slim bezel, NANO FULL LED technology, TruMotion 480Hz and THX 3D and 2D Display Certification (pending).
Also includes LG SmartTV with Magic Remote, DLNA, Wi-Fi capability (adaptor included) and Smart Energy Saving features.
INFINIA LW7700 Series (47- and 55-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled HDTV features NANO FULL LED technology, TruMotion 240Hz and THX 3D and 2D Display Certification (pending). Also includes LG SmartTV with Magic Remote, DLNA, Wi-Fi capability (adaptor included) and Smart Energy Saving features.
INFINIA LW6500 Series (47-, 55- and 65-inch class sizes*) – Provides consumers with Full HD 1080p, LG Cinema 3D, TruMotion 240Hz, and LED Plus technology with local dimming capability. With LG SmartTV, the Magic Remote and Wi-Fi capability (adaptor included), content is easier to access than ever before. LG Cinema 3D uses polarized, lightweight glasses. Four pairs of glasses are included with each set.
INFINIA LW5600 Series (47- and 55-inch class sizes*) – Provides consumers with Full HD 1080p, LG Cinema, TruMotion 120Hz, and LED Plus technology with local dimming capability. With LG SmartTV, the Magic Remote and Wi-Fi capability
www.LG.com
Show full PR text
LG ELECTRONICS' FLAGSHIP INFINIA PZ950 3D HDTV HEADLINES EXPANDED 2011 PLASMA LINE
New Plasma Displays Combine Top-of-the-Line Features, Amazing Picture Quality and Stylish Design
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 – LG Electronics announced its expanded family of plasma HDTVs for 2011 today at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205), a stunning line-up of seven new plasma series headlined by the Full HD 1080p INFINIA PZ950.
The INFINIA PZ950 – with its added online content options through LG SmartTV with Magic Motion Remote for easy navigation, THX Certified 3D display* and picture-enhancing technologies– represents the pinnacle among the more than a dozen new 2011 plasma models from LG Electronics.
"LG is dedicated to re-inventing the boundaries of Plasma HDTVs, and the 2011 line represents another step forward in the industry," said Jay Vandenbree, senior vice president, LG Electronics USA. "Including features that provide additional content, like LG SmartTV and 3D capability, add to the great picture quality and stylish designs that consumers have come to expect from an LG plasma HDTV."
Connect, Surf, Enjoy Two of LG's new plasma lines, PZ950 and PZ750 series (each available in both 50- and 60-inch class sizes*), come with the new LG SmartTV function. Building on the online content platform the company first introduced in 2008, LG SmartTV provides consumers access to virtually limitless content, thousands of movies, customizable apps, videos and Web browsing, all through an organized, simple-to-use interface*. Making navigation easier is LG's "magic motion" remote control. This gesture-based remote provides a simple and intuitive way to control the TV as well as LG SmartTV apps. In addition, a free app for iPhone and Android-based smart phones will provide an additional way to control the set, including a full QWERTY keyboard.
The PZ550 series (available in 50- and 60-inch class sizes*) includes online media options from content partners including Netflix, CinemaNow, VUDU, Picasa, MLB.com and many more with LG NetCast 1.0. Providing easy options for connecting to the Internet, in addition to the wired Ethernet jack, all internet-capable sets can integrate into a wireless home network by using a USB wireless broadband adaptor (Included with PZ950, sold separately for other models).
All LG's internet-capable plasmas have incorporated the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) technology. DLNA allows consumers to access content stored on other DLNA-certified devices within the home, such as computers, making content options almost limitless.
Eye-Popping Picture, Eye-Catching Design Four of LG's new plasma series (PZ950, PZ750, PZ550 and PW350 series) incorporate 3D capability, working with the use of active shutter glasses and an RF emitter built into the television. They also incorporate 2D to 3D conversion, which is user-adjustable so consumers can watch almost anything with a 3D effect. The PZ950 and PZ750 have achieved THX 2D and 3D Display Certification – the industry standard for having the correct gamma, luminance, and color temperature. To earn THX 3D display certification, these models passed more than 400 laboratory tests evaluating left and right eye images for color accuracy, cross-talk, viewing angles and video processing performance. In addition to THX 3D Display Certification, this series had to pass THX certification for their superior picture quality in 2D, which must be achieved before passing THX 3D Display Certification. THX Certification ensures that consumers bring home an uncompromised HD experience with picture quality the way the director intended.
All of the new plasma series include LG's 600Hz Sub-field Driving to ensure that all the action is delivered smoothly with virtually no motion blur. The flagship PZ950 also includes the TruBlack filter for enhanced black levels even in brightly lit conditions. Further, it features LG's striking INFINIA Design, with a depth of less than 2 inches and a bezel measuring just 1.18 inches wide. Real glass is paired with a hair-line aluminum highlight to create a luxurious, virtually borderless appearance, while a transparent lower panel completes the slim even-bezel look. The overall effect is to draw greater attention to the screen, making for a truly immersive viewing experience in both 2D and 3D. Other 2011 models (PZ550, PW350, PV450, and PT350) include LG's TruSlim Frame, which cut the bezel to less than 1-inch thin.
Energy Savings Understanding consumers' desire for products that reduce their household energy costs, most of LG's plasma HDTVs have a variety of energy-saving features, such as Intelligent Sensor, to automatically calibrate and optimize brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the ambient light in the room, saving on energy output under most circumstances. Additionally, ISFccc calibration options allow consumers to work with a professional to set "day" and "night" levels for optimal viewing and brightness levels. All of LG's 2011 plasma series also qualify for ENERGY STAR® certification.
In total, LG unveiled 12 new plasma HDTV models for consumers, featuring advanced content options, excellent picture quality, wireless technology and diverse screen sizes. Full details on the series are below:
INFINIA PZ950 Series (50 and 60-inch class size*) – LG's flagship plasma, Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled HDTV features uni-layer design with ultra-slim bezel, LG SmartTV with Magic Motion Remote, THX 3D and 2D Display Certification. Also includes TruBlack Filter, 600Hz max Sub-field Driving, DLNA, Wi-Fi capability (adaptor included), and Smart Energy Saving features.
INFINIA PZ750 Series (50- and 60-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled HDTV features uni-layer design with ultra-slim bezel, LG SmartTV with Magic Motion Remote, THX 3D and 2D Display Certification. Also includes 600Hz max Sub-field Driving, DLNA, Wi-Fi capability (adaptor required, sold separately), and Smart Energy Saving features.
PZ550 Series (50- and 60-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled HDTV features LG's TruSlim Frame, NetCast™ Entertainment Access, DLNA, Wi-Fi capability (adaptor required, sold separately), 600Hz max Sub-field Driving and Smart Energy Saving features.
PW350 Series (42- and 50-inch class sizes*) – Provides mid- to large-size 3D-enabled HDTV with LG's TruSlim Frame, 600Hz Sub-field Driving and Smart Energy Saving features.
PV450 Series (50- and 60-inch class sizes*) – Provides consumers with a Full HD 1080p experience with LG's TruSlim Frame, 600Hz max Sub-field Driving and Smart Energy Saving features.
PT350 Series (42- and 50-inch class sizes*) – Provides mid- to large-size HDTV with LG's TruSlim Frame, 600Hz Sub-field Driving and Smart Energy Saving features.
With class sizes ranging from 42- to 60-inches, LG's plasma HDTV models are all built with LG's four core technologies:
• Picture Wizard: Provides consumers with an easy-to-use seven-step calibration process that allows them to change picture settings without hiring an expert. • Intelligent Sensor: Automatically calibrates and optimizes brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the brightness and color temperature of lighting in the room – thereby saving on energy output in most circumstances. • Clear Voice II: An enhancement to Clear Voice, this feature customizes volume settings by 12 distinct voice zoom levels, helping ensure consumers don't miss a single line of dialogue during action sequences. • AV Mode II: Includes three AV modes preset to optimize picture and sound settings based on Cinema, Sports or Game content, which can be easily set with the remote control.
For more information and product images, please visit LG's online press kit at www.lgnewsroom.com/CES2011.
Show full PR text
LG ELECTRONICS FURTHER EXPANDS ACCESS TO CONTENT-ON-DEMAND WITH NEW BLU-RAY DISC PLAYERS AND HOME THEATER SYSTEMS
Key Features for 2011 Include LG SmartTV, 3D Capability, 250 GB Hard Drive, Wi-Fi Connectivity
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 – Continuing its leadership in digital media with vast online content options, LG Electronics today introduced its 2011 line-up of Network Blu-ray Disc Players and Home Theater Systems at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205)
Leading the line-up being unveiled this week is LG's BD690 3D-capable Network Blu-ray Disc player with LG SmartTV and an integrated 250-gigabyte (GB) hard drive, allowing for easy storage and instant playback of music, photos, personal videos and online movies from VUDU™*.
Demonstrating its focus on providing consumers with convenient access to nearly endless content options, six of LG's 2011 Network Blu-ray Players and home theater systems are 3D capable and incorporate LG SmartTV. LG SmartTV provides consumers with a simple-to-use interface that allows access to thousands of movies, customizable apps and videos. For convenient navigation consumers can download a free app for iPhone and Android-based smart phones to control the unit, including a full QWERTY keyboard.
"LG is committed to offering consumers easier access to more content-on-demand, which is reflected in our 2011 line of Blu-ray products with new content partners, advanced technology and unique design," said Jay Vandenbree, senior vice president, LG Electronics USA. "As the pioneer in providing content-on-demand options for consumers, LG builds on this reputation by offering full product lines designed to help consumers transform their home entertainment experience into something better."
Consumers also will enjoy that most 2011 Network Blu-ray Players and home theater systems have available Wi-Fi connectivity (built-in or available with purchase of Wi-Fi adapter) that allows consumers flexibility when installing a home entertainment system by connecting directly to any existing 802.11n wireless home network. They also include Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) functionality, which expands entertainment options by enabling easier access to family videos and pictures stored on other DLNA-enabled systems, such as computers, making content options almost limitless.
Also included on many products in the lineup is the MusicID® feature powered by Gracenote®, which allows consumers to play a song from a movie or TV show by simply pressing a button on their remote control. Gracenote then returns rich information on the song, such as artist and genre, along with album cover art.
Designed to complement the look of today's HDTVs, LG's Network Blu-ray Players and home theater systems feature slim, compact designs that allow consumers to easily blend their entire entertainment system into any existing room environment.
Network Blu-ray Disc Players Leading LG's 2011 portfolio of Network Blu-ray Disc Players is model BD690 – one of the only 3D-capable Blu-ray Disc player to feature an integrated hard drive, so consumers can consolidate their digital media files in a single device for exceptional high-resolution enjoyment. Its built-in 250GB hard drive allows consumers to create a Media Library that delivers easy storage and instant playback of music, photos, personal videos and movies purchased from the VUDU service. Also, digital media that may have been scattered throughout the home on PCs or digital cameras can now be simply imported via the USB or Ethernet port to create a single organized library of personal memories.
To take full advantage of the Blu-ray format, LG's Network Blu-ray Players also provide convenient access to BD Live, which offers a wide variety of content, such as movie scene extras, new previews and the ability to read synopses and rate movies. Also included are Bonus View features that provide picture-in-picture access to Blu-ray Disc special features, allowing consumers to toggle between their favorite movie scenes and bonus features on the disc. For those with a library full of both standard and Blu-ray titles, LG's players utilize 1080p up scaling of standard DVDs for a near high definition viewing experience – no matter what format is being played.
In all, LG introduced six new Network Blu-ray Players, featuring 3D capability, advanced content options, wireless technology and excellent picture quality. Also unveiled was its first-ever portable Blu-ray player (model BP650). Full details on the models are below:
BD690 – LG's flagship Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled Network Blu-ray Player features LG SmartTV, and 250GB hard drive with MusicID®. Also includes built-in Wi-Fi capability and DLNA (server and client) functionality.
BD670 – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled Network Blu-ray Player features LG SmartTV and MusicID®. Also includes built-in Wi-Fi capability, and DLNA.
BD650 – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled Network Blu-ray Player features LG SmartTV and is Wi-Fi ready (adaptor required, sold seperatly), and DLNA.
BD640 – Full HD 1080p Network Blu-ray Player features, connectivity to NetFlix, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube, and Wi-Fi capability (adaptor is included).
BD630 – Full HD 1080p Network Blu-ray Player features, and connectivity to NetFlix, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube.
BP650 – LG's first portable Blu-ray Player
Network Blu-ray Disc Home Theater Systems Headlining LG's new line of Network Blu-ray Disc Home Theater Systems is the LHB976. Offering a sleek, stylish audio-visual solution with 3-channel wireless speaker technology, the LHB976 provides consumers with wireless access to LG SmartTV and 3D capability.
With 1100 watts of output power to 5.1 channels featuring LG's silk dome speaker technology, this premium Blu-ray Home Theater System generates a dynamic surround-sound experience, creating a more immersive home entertainment experience. A sub-woofer and two wireless rear speakers complete the package, giving consumers the flexibility to place them anywhere in the room. In addition, the front tallboy speakers can be positioned as either floor-standing or detached to mount on the wall.
For enhanced versatility, the LHB976 features LG's wireless rear speaker technology, which utilizes digital spread spectrum operation for better signal quality and consistent high-quality audio performance. This feature ensures that installation is quick and the consumer is not left with a tangle of wires distracting the eye from the system itself.
Advanced audio format decoding is supported so users can enjoy superior audio performance with technologies such as Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio Essential. And of course, no audio system would be complete without iPod docking capabilities. The LHB976 allows for both the iPod and iPhone to be directly connected via a convenient cradle adaptor.
The LHB976 caters to most consumer listening needs by playing multiple media types, from CD/DVDs to Blu-ray Discs to network streaming content, all accessible from a single home theater system. The dual HDMI (version 1.4) inputs also deliver great audio performance and convenient connectivity for devices such as cable boxes or game systems in a simple, easy-to-use format. This model is also DLNA-certified allowing consumers to easily access content on other compatible devices.
Also announced was LG's first "HD Sound Bar" (model LSB316), a home theater accessory designed to complement LG's advanced flat-panel displays with elevated audio performance. The LSB316 includes six speaker drivers housed in a sleek, stylish speaker bar which can be placed directly below the TV or wall mounted. The bar is accompanied by a wireless subwoofer which can be conveniently placed out of sight while delivering deep, rich bass.
In total, LG introduced four new Network Blu-ray Home Theater Systems, featuring 3D capability, advanced content options, wireless technology and excellent sound and picture quality. Full details on the models are below:
LHB976 – LG's flagship Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled Network Blu-ray Home Theater System features LG SmartTV, 1100 watts of output power to 5.1 channels and wireless speakers. Also includes, built-in Wi-Fi capability, iPod/iPhone cradle, MusicID® and DLNA.
LHB536 – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled Network Blu-ray Home Theater System features LG SmartTV and 1100 watts of output power to 5.1 channels. Also includes built-in WiFi capability, iPod/iPhone cradle, MusicID® and DLNA.
LHB336 – Full HD 1080p 3D-enabled Network Blu-ray Home Theater System features LG SmartTV with Smart Phone App and 1100 watts of output power to 5.1 channels. Also Wi-Fi ready (adaptor required, sold seperatly) and includes iPod/iPhone cradle, MusicID® and DLNA.
LHB326 – Full HD 1080p Network Blu-ray Home Theater System features connectivity to NetFlix, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube; and 1100 watts of output power to 5.1 channels. Also includes Wi-Fi capability (adaptor is included) and MusicID®.
For more information and product images, please visit LG's online press kit at www.lgnewsroom.com/ces2011.
Here's an idea: start a headphone company, and then consult any 'ole musician for sponsorship. It's bound to work out well for you. HP has locked arms with Dr. Dre (and The Biebs!), Sleek Audio has done likewise with 50 Cent, Harman AKG has teamed with Quincy Jones, and now, Signeo is looking to Ludacris for a boost in the marketing department. Here at CES, the aforesaid outfit has just launched the cans you see above, aptly titled Soul by Ludacris. As you'd expect, they look mildly similar to the Beats headphone range that has seemingly taken the world by storm, and according to the release after the break, Luda was tightly involved in the construction of them. The Soul brand is debuting with five models in the line: the SL300 noise-cancelling headphones, on-ear SL150 / SL100 models and the SE99 / SE48 earbuds. The whole crew is tweaked to emit fairly intense bass ("without sacrificing the clarity of mids and highs," mind you), and while no pricing details are being shared just yet, we are told that you can find your own Soul when they hit shelves in "early 2011." One more look and the full release are after the break.
Show full PR text
Signeo USA Officially Unveils SOUL by Ludacris®
Company to Launch Full Suite of High Performance Audio Line with World Renowned Artist Ludacris at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show
January 5, 2011 – Signeo USA, a global leader in pro and consumer audio manufacturing, announces the worldwide launch of a superior new line of personal audio products - SOUL by Ludacris®. In a highly collaborative effort with the Grammy winning and globally renowned artist Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, the SOUL® brand kicks off with an initial 5-model line-up of high definition headphones that offer the elite sound caliber of a professional headphone with a distinct flair for self expression and style. Driven by his famously artistic vision, and supported by an award-winning design team with resume credits spanning from luxury automotive to world-class electronics, the line dons a sleek form factor and presents an array of eye-catching colors and uniquely designed styles.
"It was important to our team to create a collection of audio concepts that not only delivers a powerful and precise listening experience, but also embodies the kind of style people look for in a nice pair of sunglasses or even a sports car", said Bob Bonefant, Executive Director of Signeo USA. "Ludacris is a perfect partner for us as he is the consummate individualist and has such a talent for infusing a distinct style into everything he does."
The SOUL by Ludacris line debuts with the High Definition Professional SL300 Powered Noise Cancelling headphone, High Definition On-Ear models SL150 and SL100, and the SE99 and SE49 High Definition In-Ear headphones. The entire line contains professionally voiced sound technology with advanced circuitry and drivers designed by a team of engineers who have developed some of the most notable acoustic breakthroughs in the audio industry. Elements such as world-class noise cancellation technology and ultra precise audio mix balancing deliver deep bass without sacrificing clarity of mids and highs to provide a listening experience fit for a wide audience that reaches the business traveler or casual music lover to the pro musician or audiophile.
Signeo USA Executive Director Len Davi commented," Delivering an impactful sound experience is an art form. Music is a passionate expression, and when you hear a great performance it's a very powerful thing. The SOUL name and concept is founded on the idea that you should be able to experience that feeling with each listen."
The SOUL by Ludacris® product line will be exclusively distributed by Ingram Micro, Inc. (NYSE: IM) through its Consumer Electronics Division. The new line is scheduled to hit retail shelves nationwide in early 2011.
For More Information, please visit www.SOULbyLudacris.com
About SOUL by Ludacris® Expression, Passion and Superior Sound are at the core of the SOUL by Ludacris ®experience. Here to prove that style and sound quality can coexist, the SOUL line offers an array of personal audio products that masterfully balance elements such as world-class noise cancellation technology with superior sound quality, allowing you experience the full range of your music. Pair that with an award winning design team and the expressive vision of world renowned artist Ludacris, and you get the first headphone that effectively merges style with professional acoustics.
8:42AM Just as a reminder: the LG Optimus 2X and super-skinny Optimus Black were announced on the mobile front, both Android smartphones. We're still expecting the LG Revolution to bring its LTE goods to us tomorrow, most probably at Verizon's press conference.
8:40AM Alright folks, we're all wrapped up here. Fast and torrid list of announcements on the home appliance and entertainment fronts, while the smartphone section was skipped past very quickly. Looking forward to that tablet tomorrow! Bring on the Optimus Pad.
8:38AM "Some of the best looking and best performing monitors" in 2011 are also being promised, along with optical disc drive and network-attached storage products.
8:38AM Nine new Blu-ray models coming this year, most of them including SmartTV, WiFi, and a trio of Cinema3D models.
8:37AM Plasmas are getting 12 new models, including a bunch of 1080p panels, SmartTV and 3D TV. industry's thinnest bezel in a thin design also promised.
8:37AM 31 models in 13 series of new LCD TVs. Two thirds of those will include the Nano LED backlight.
8:36AM Nano Full LED lighting allows televisions that can be housed in panels less than one inch in depth.
8:35AM Another chart showing the Cinema3D set against its shutter glasses competitors. LG wins again.
8:35AM Four pairs of glasses will be in LG's sets of 3D goggles. Cheaper, lighter, just better, apparently.
8:34AM LG took its Smart TV Upgrader box to some consumers and asked them what they'd prefer. Their box beat out set-top boxes. Surprising.
8:33AM Magic Motion Remote, we saw this at last year's CES. It has six buttons and relies on gesture control. "Very simple, very fun, and very intuitive." Very smart too, no?
8:33AM WiFi capabilities will be available in "pretty much every" smart product that LG builds.
8:32AM "Second to none in the market with the amount of content that is delivered to our consumers." Access to the web with a very simple, easy to use browser, right in the TV. And DLNA compatibility, of course.
8:31AM LG's research revealed that three main elements are required by smart tv consumers: lots of content to watch, easy connectivity to home network, and ease of use.
8:31AM Cinema 3D and Smart TV make up LG's smart strategy on the television front.
8:30AM Okay, now we're finally getting the US home entertainment product roadmap. Tim Alessi on stage.
8:30AM "Imagine a refrigerator that has the ability to text you a shopping list." Dude, we've been imagining that for two decades. He was supposed to give us specifics and he dropped a bunch of imaginary products on us. Thanks, Patrick, we appreciated our time together.
8:28AM Incredibly quiet linear compressor technology in LG's range of fridges. Do they have Optimus Pads inside the fridges? No, why should we care again?
8:28AM "Imagine a dishwasher capable of blasting the toughest lipstick off the most fragile of glasses."
8:27AM "Imagine a laundry product that has the ability to determine whether to call someone if it has an issue."
8:27AM Optimal cooking results, yo! An oven "so smart" as to inform you when your roast is about done. Great, our kitchen's about to start texting us.
8:26AM "Smarter cooking, smarter, cooling and smarter cleaning." Man, we want to hear more about smarter computing.
8:26AM Parick Steinkuhl coming on the stage to dish out some specifics. "This is a year of first. LG's first time presenting home appliances at the Consumer Electronics Show. First time the industry has had the infrastructure to support smart home appliances."
8:24AM 2011 product launches for United States are about to be disclosed now.
8:24AM As to LG's LTE phones, the company said to check out its stand tomorrow. Separate session to introduce a new tablet tomorrow!
8:23AM Most of LG's stuff works over WiFi, but there is ZigBee support as well.
8:22AM Smart Grid function will let you program the times at which your appliances run in order to capitalize on cheaper electricity costs.
8:21AM Live video feed from LG vacuum cleaner's onboard camera. Fun!
8:21AM Man, LG really cranked through its smartphone announcement. Now it's sped right along to smart home appliances and is discussing the Thinq home connectivity system.
8:20AM Mobile DTV with autostereoscopic 3D. Still just a teaser.
8:19AM Wow, they're skipping on the Revolution announcement. Guess they'll let Verizon make that official. We're happy to have the 9.2mm Optimus Black anyhow.
8:19AM We're talking about LTE now. Guess the Revolution is coming. "We have developed our own LTE chipset."
8:18AM Optimus Black! Nova display with 700 nits of brightness.
8:17AM "A true cinema in your pocket."
8:17AM Smartphones on the brain now. We're seeing the Optimus 2X up front. World's first dual-core smartphone. Full HD 1080p video.
8:16AM 31-inch OLED TV promised!
8:15AM Promise brighter picture, zero flickering, lighter glasses (they're passive, so no need for charging).
8:15AM FPR 3DTVs will be coming out this year.
8:12AM SmartTV platform being explained right now. Launcher bar across the bottom will allow you to do stuff without losing your TV picture.
8:12AM 2011 is "smarter" with Smart TVs, Smart phones, and Smart appliances.
8:10AM Introducing Dr. Skott Ahn
8:04AM Competitiveness, preparedness, quality and people. LG's four priorities.
8:03AM A warm LG welcome for the boss man himself, Wayne Park. Good morning, Wayne!
8:03AM Smart technology. Smart TVs, smartphones, etc... LG just ran a teaser about "Simply Smarter." Home entertainment products, home appliances and mobile phones.
7:59AM Our program is about to begin, folks! There's a fridge perched up immediately next to the speech podium. Guess we know where LG's priorities lie.
7:57AM Ooh, washers and dryers too! These bad boys have a tablet jammed into the top of them, which looks to be removable for the ultimate in connected cleanliness.
7:54AM We're seeing Blu-ray players, robotic vacuum cleaners, LG's magic motion gesture remote, and of course, all those HDTVs.
Smooth jazz welcomes us to LG's presentation. The chairs are comfy, the air is clear and the lighting is surprisingly good. SmartTV signs and large HDTVs surround us.
We're entering the day of the liveblog here at CES with all the major electronics manufacturers finally ready to make their big splash announcements for 2011. LG is almost certain to drop some knowledge on us about its new triumvirate of Android smartphones, while 3DTVs, of both the mobile and supersized variety, are expected to feature strongly as well. Let's not waste time prognosticating, however -- there's a set of well groomed Korean gentlemen ready to do right by us with a surely awesome presentation. Why keep them waiting? Jump past the break for all the steaming-hot liveblog action.
If you've ever spilled coffee on a piece of electronics, maybe a keyboard or even a laptop, spare a thought for the pilot of United Airlines flight 940, outbound from Chicago and heading to Frankfurt. Not long after takeoff the pilot apparently dumped a cup of Joe onto the communications panel in the cockpit and things rapidly went downhill from there. The crew inadvertently sent a code 7500, which indicates that the plane is being hijacked and, as you can imagine, that led to a lot of unwanted attention. It's not clear whether the equipment malfunctioned and sent the code or the pilot, likely struggling with a scalded lap, fat-fingered things on the panel. Either way, the flight diverted to Toronto and, rather tragically, the passengers were all sent back to Chicago to try again the next day.
Russian site Gagadget seems to have scored pictures of a phone that matches up perfectly with the teasers Sony Ericsson has placed strategically around the CES show grounds this week -- which, in turn, look a whole lot like the Anzu we've been seeing leaked for a few months. The site's saying this bad boy will come to market as the Xperia Arc, so called thanks to a concave backside. The specs, if legit, are decent: 1GHz Qualcomm processor (single-core, it seems), 4.2-inch 854 x 480 display, Gingerbread, 8 megapixel back-illuminated Sony sensor with HD video capture, and a body that measures just 8.7mm at the thinnest point. Sony's CES press conference is later today, so we might not have long to wait to get all the details on this one; in the meantime, follow the break for a quick promotional video Gagadget seems to have turned up.
Qualcomm is one of the wireless industry's undisputed titans, but it's looking to shore up a few holes in its component offerings today with the planned purchase of Atheros Communications, a company that primarily specializes in WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS chipsets. Atheros isn't exactly a startup, either: at $45 a share, Qualcomm will be shelling out roughly $3.1 billion to complete the acquisition (assuming it passes all the usual bureaucratic hurdles) of a company that's got WiFi silicon in products spanning the range from phones to PCs and every fledgling category in between. The deal's expected to close in the first half of this year; follow the break for the full press release.
Show full PR text
Qualcomm to Acquire Atheros, Leader in Connectivity & Networking Solutions
Accelerates Expansion of Company's Semiconductor Business into Adjacent Markets
SAN DIEGO AND SAN JOSE – January 05, 2011 – Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) and Atheros Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATHR), today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement whereby Qualcomm intends to acquire Atheros, a leader in innovative technologies for wireless and wired local area connectivity in the computing, networking and consumer electronics industries. The acquisition is intended to help accelerate the expansion of Qualcomm's technologies and platforms to new businesses beyond cellular and provide access to significant new growth opportunities.
Qualcomm has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Atheros for $45 per share in cash, representing an enterprise value of $3.1 billion. The transaction has been approved by the Qualcomm and Atheros boards of directors and is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of domestic and foreign regulatory approvals and the approval of Atheros' stockholders. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2011. Excluding amortization of acquired intangibles, Qualcomm expects the acquisition to be modestly accretive to earnings per share in fiscal year 2012, the first full year of combined operations. Qualcomm intends to finalize its estimates of the transaction's financial impact, as well as the accounting for the transaction, upon deal close.
"It is Qualcomm's strategy to continually integrate additional technologies into mobile devices to make them the primary way that people communicate, compute and access content. This acquisition is a natural extension of that strategy into other types of devices," said Dr. Paul E. Jacobs, chairman and CEO of Qualcomm. "The combination of Qualcomm and Atheros is intended to accelerate this opportunity by utilizing best-in-class products for communications, computing and consumer electronics to broaden existing customer relationships and expand access to new partners and distribution channels."
Atheros' current president and CEO, Dr. Craig H. Barratt, is expected to join Qualcomm as president of Qualcomm Networking & Connectivity.
"Qualcomm and Atheros have a long history of collaboration and share a culture of technical innovation and execution excellence," Barratt said. "The Atheros team will build upon Qualcomm's strengths and leadership to bolster our customers' ability to deliver innovative and differentiated products in the increasingly connected world."
"With this acquisition and our complementary products, Qualcomm will be in a strong position to take our successful mobile strategy of bringing the best technologies together into a systems solution and apply this to new opportunities," said Steve Mollenkopf, EVP and group president of Qualcomm. "We see this strategy as central to helping our customers capitalize on the ubiquitous connectivity and seamless experiences that are developing across mobile phones, computing and consumer electronics."
Editor's Note: There will be a conference call on January 5, 2011 beginning at 5:30 a.m. PT on Qualcomm's Investor Relations website at: http://investor.qualcomm.com/events.cfm. A taped audio replay will be available via telephone on January 5, 2011 through February 5, 2011 at 9:00 p.m. PT. To listen to the replay, U.S. callers may dial (800) 642-1687 and international callers may dial (706) 645-9291. U.S. and international callers should use reservation number 35060578. An audio replay of the conference call will be available on Qualcomm's Investor Relations website at http://investor.qualcomm.com/events.cfm following the live call. To view the web slides that accompany this release and conference call, please go to the Qualcomm Investor Relations website at: http://investor.qualcomm.com/events.cfm
About Atheros Atheros Communications delivers innovative technologies for wireless and wired communications. Its mission is to invent technologies that connect and empower people in ways that are elegant and accessible to all. Building upon its broad expertise in RF and mixed signal semiconductor design, Atheros' portfolio includes a wide variety of connectivity solutions that are used by many of the world's leading networking equipment, computing and consumer device manufacturers. Headquartered in San Jose, California, Atheros has a significant and growing presence in Asia and Europe to serve its global customer base. For more information, visit www.atheros.com.
About Qualcomm Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) is the world leader in next-generation mobile technologies. For 25 years, Qualcomm ideas and inventions have driven the evolution of wireless communications, connecting people more closely to information, entertainment and each other. Today, Qualcomm technologies are powering the convergence of mobile communications and consumer electronics, making wireless devices and services more personal, affordable and accessible to people everywhere. For more information, visit Qualcomm around the Web: www.qualcomm.com Corporate Blog: www.qualcomm.com/blog Twitter: www.twitter.com/qualcomm Facebook: www.facebook.com/qualcomm
This news release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of Qualcomm or Atheros could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including the expected benefits and costs of the transaction; management plans relating to the transaction; the expected timing of the completion of the transaction; the parties' ability to complete the transaction considering the various closing conditions, including any conditions related to regulatory approvals; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements regarding product development, product extensions, product integration or product marketing; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the possibility that expected benefits of the transaction may not materialize as expected; that the transaction may not be timely completed, if at all; that Qualcomm will not be able to successfully integrate the products and employees of Qualcomm and Atheros or ensure the continued performance or market growth of Atheros' products; as well as the other risks detailed from time to time in Qualcomm's and Atheros' SEC reports, including Qualcomm's report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 26, 2010 and Atheros' report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009. Neither Qualcomm nor Atheros undertakes any obligation to update, or continue to provide information with respect to, any forward-looking statement or risk factor, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
In connection with the proposed transaction, Atheros intends to file a definitive proxy statement and other relevant materials with the SEC. Before making any voting decision with respect to the proposed transaction, stockholders of Atheros are urged to read the proxy statement and other relevant materials because these materials will contain important information about the proposed transaction. The proxy statement and other relevant materials, and any other documents filed by Atheros with the SEC, may be obtained free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or from Atheros at www.Atheros.com or by contacting Atheros Investor Relations at: David.Allen@Atheros.com and 408.830.5762.
Atheros and Qualcomm and each of their executive officers and directors may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Atheros' stockholders in favor of the proposed transaction. A list of the names of Atheros' executive officers and directors and a description of their respective interests in Atheros are set forth in the proxy statement for Atheros' 2010 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 7, 2010, and in any documents subsequently filed by its directors and executive officers under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Certain executive officers and directors of Atheros have interests in the proposed transaction that may differ from the interests of stockholders generally, including benefits conferred under retention, severance and change in control arrangements and continuation of director and officer insurance and indemnification. These interests and any additional benefits in connection with the proposed transaction will be described in the definitive proxy statement.
Here we are a mere day away from the ThunderBolt's probable announce at Verizon's CES press conference, which, by our rough count, gives us at least one more opportunity to see the LTE-capable monster leaked in the wild. That opportunity comes courtesy of AndroidSPIN, who claims that we can expect a 1GHz single-core processor, 8GB of internal storage with microSD expansion, 8 megapixel rear and 1.3 megapixel front cams, Android 2.2.1 with Sense, HTC-customized mapping and nav (probably HTC Locations with offline caching), and DLNA compatibility -- but no built-in HDMI. Every one of those specs was either already expected or believable enough, though the lack of HDMI -- if true -- would still give the EVO 4G some bragging rights more than six months after its release. Score one for longevity, eh?
Another year, another revamping of your favorite company's camcorder lineup. Today's Mad Lib-esque fill-in-the-company-name is Canon. The VIXIA HF G10 is its new flagship with the approximately 2 megapixel (i.e. 1920 x 1080 resolution) HD CMOS sensor, a 10x optical zoom, manual focus ring, 3.5-inch touchscreen LCD, 32GB internal memory, dual SDXC slots, cinema filters, and a $1,499 price tag due in March. The M-Series all have the same HD CMOS sensor, 10x lens, 3-inch touchscreen cinema filters, dual SDXC slots and fits neatly into the new WP-V3 waterproof case. The 32GB M41, 16GB M40, and card slot-only M400 are coming in March for $799, $699, and $649 (the related case is $599 and coming out a month prior in February). The S30 has an 8.59 megapixel sensor, 3.5-inch touchscreen LCD, 32GB internal space, and is coming March for $1,099. Lastly, the new R-series. A 3.2 megapixel sensor, 3-inch touch panel LCD, HD-to-SD down conversion, dual SDXC slots, and 20x zoom. $499 for the 32GB R21, $399 for the 8GB R20, and $379 for the internal storage-deprived R200, all due out in February. We'll get hands-on when we can; in the meantime; lock your biological viewfinder on the pictures below.
Cameras! Betcha didn't see that coming, did you? Canon's PowerShot lineup is out in full force. Actually there's just four to list, including the company's first point-and-shoot to drop below the $100 mark, but more on that one in a bit. From the top: The $179, 16 megapixel A3300 IS features 720p HD video, 5x optical zoom, a 3-inch LCD, a number of creative filters including "toy camera" and monochrome, and discrete mode that turns off all sounds for when you need to snap more quietly. Next up (or rather down, on this proverbial list) is the $139 A2200, which keeps the creative filters, 720p HD video, and discrete mode while moving down to 14 megapixels, 4x optical zoom, and a 2.7-inch LCD.
The PowerShot A1200 (for $109) has similar specs to the A2200 but drops the sensor to 12.1 megapixels and nixes the discrete mode. There's also a tiny optical viewfinder -- not too useful, but hey, it's there if you want it. Finally we have the A800. 10 megapixels, VGA video with blur reduction, and a 2.5-inch LCD... doesn't look as spectacular when in the company of others, but it does rock an $89 price tag. All are due out late February. Check out the pics below.
The Contour family of helmet cameras are among our favorite, their little lasers making it a little easier to figure out just where the heck they're pointing. Not as nice as the integrated screen as on the Drift Innovation HD170, but rather less bulky. Soon you won't have to worry about lasers with the upcoming Live Viewfinder feature. As it turns out, the $349.99 ContourGPS doesn't just have a GPS chip inside, there's Bluetooth connectivity in there somewhere too.
This enables the little cameras to connect wirelessly to your Android or iOS device and send some video its way. At least, that's the theory, as the apps aren't ready for consumption yet, though we're told iOS is coming first sometime this summer. It looks like you won't be able to tap into the camera's storage, this will exclusively work like a viewfinder, but that gives us something to hope for in coming releases. This extension is coming later this year, but we're hoping to check it out a lot sooner than that. Stay tuned.
Show full PR text
Contour Turns Your Mobile Phone into a Live Viewfinder for its ContourGPS Camera
January 5, 2011 (Seattle, Wash.) – Contour, a market leader in hands-free video cameras, is announcing a new feature for its award winning ContourGPS model: Bluetooth. Already the first hands-free video camera to capture speed and location in real-time, Contour is unveiling a built-in Bluetooth chip in the ContourGPS and a mobile app that together enable your phone to become a live viewfinder. Now, you can see what your camera sees while configuring your settings, all from the most remote locations. Applications are currently being developed for the Android and iOS platforms. Contour will be demonstrating this new functionality at the Consumer Electronics Show.
"We're excited about turning a phone into a live screen for the ContourGPS and delivering the single feature nearly all of our customers have been asking for," says Marc Barros, Contour's CEO. "ContourGPS was already the first hands-free camera to introduce real-time GPS, bringing a whole new level of video storytelling to our customers around the world. But with the enabling of Bluetooth, ContourGPS becomes the only hands-free video camera with a wireless viewfinder."
Hands-free is one of the fastest growing video camera categories, but it's often limited in its application by the lack of a screen. By unlocking Bluetooth, ContourGPS opens itself to connectivity with audio, remote control, and mobile accessories. Most importantly, it enables a mobile app to turn your phone into a live viewfinder.
The ContourGPS camera brings together three of the hottest trends: location, mobile, and video. It goes beyond being just a camera – it's an all-in-one platform that offers innovative software in conjunction with a vibrant online community. Customers can record, post, and share their video adventures while tracking their path, speed, and elevation on a map - all at the same time. A rugged video camera made specifically for the estimated 100 million outdoor enthusiasts around the world, ContourGPS makes it easy to capture video from within the action and share it online in seconds.
A 2011 CES Innovations Award Winner, ContourGPS ($349.99 MSRP) is being displayed at the Digital Experience Event on January 5th and at the company's CES Booth #35155. Visit http://contour.com/camera/contour_gps to learn more or to find a complete list of retailers.
About Contour Contour is the market leader in hands-free, location-aware video cameras. Producing adventure storytelling tools based on a simple intuitive design, Contour enables modern-day explorers to use location-based video to replay their personal tales of action, adventure and travel, sharing them with world at the touch of a button. For more information about Contour please visit www.contour.com.
Lexar. It's Where Memory Matters. And it's also the only game in town to introduce a Class 10 microSDHC card. For those currently using an Android phone with a user-accessible microSD slot, you've probably gritted your teeth on a number of occasions waiting for your current Class 2 or Class 4 card to catch up with your demands. It's one of the downfalls to removable storage, but thankfully, the device you see above looks to us like a glistening solution. The 32GB Class 10 microSDHC card promises a minimum sustained write speed of 10MB per second and a read speed of nearly 20MB per second, which should all but eliminate any lag from loading up your favorite playlist. Lexar plans on shipping this guy with preloaded software to manage and sync stored images and videos, and speaking of shipping, it should be available right now on Amazon for $149.99.
Show full PR text
Lexar Media Introduces the 32GB Class 10 High-Speed Mobile microSDHC Card for Mobile Phones
Class 10 microSDHC Performance Kit Enhances the Mobile Lifestyle with Blazing Fast Transfer Speeds
Key Messages: • Class 10 32GB microSDHC™ card with performance kit only one of its kind available today • Class 10 speed rating offers fast load and transfer of mobile content • Large capacity enables users to capture more valuable content on the move, including HD videos, photos, and music • Media management software and USB reader allow users to easily manage, transfer, and archive media files, as well as sync content between a mobile phone and PC or Mac® system
Las Vegas, NV, January 5, 2011 – Lexar Media, a leading global provider of memory products for digital media, today introduced the 32GB Class 10 Lexar® High-Speed Mobile microSDHC card. The 32GB Class 10 microSDHC card guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 10MB per second and a read speed up to 20MB per second1, allowing users to quickly load files onto the card and transfer them between mobile phone and computer, and maximize their on-the-go mobile lifestyles. The 32GB Lexar High-Speed Mobile microSDHC card is part of a performance kit that includes a USB reader and mediamoveTM for Lexar Media sideload software for easy and quick file management. For additional information about the 32GB Lexar High-Speed Mobile microSDHC card, visit www.lexar.com.
"We've seen a steady rise in the sophistication of smart and mobile phones, and usage trends show a convergence between communication and entertainment," said Jim Chan, product marketing manager, Lexar Media. "Today's users rely on their mobile devices, beyond talk and email, for capturing live moments and downloading their favorite content – whether it's photos, music, or HD video – and they want the flexibility to store and share them on demand. It is with this knowledge that we've developed this convenient, all-in-one solution to enable users to not only capture moments and download content, but also to move these to a computer or social media sites easily."
Multimedia file storage, including photos, music, videos, is the primary reason people purchase memory cards for their phones2. The 32GB Lexar High-Speed Mobile microSDHC card enables users to not only store more multimedia files, but to also move large amounts of mobile content more quickly with its performance of Class 10. The card also includes pre-loaded software to allow users to manage their stored images and videos, sync content with their PC or Mac, and share them on the most popular social websites.
As a division of Micron Technology, Inc., Lexar Media is backed by Micron's industry-leading memory technology, providing consumers with reliable, high-quality, award-winning products. Additionally, Lexar products are tested in the Lexar Quality Labs where all product designs undergo extensive testing to ensure performance, quality, compatibility, and reliability with more than 800 intended digital devices.
The 32GB Lexar High-Speed Mobile microSDHC card includes a ten-year limited warranty and the USB reader includes a one-year limited warranty. The 32GB Lexar High-Speed Mobile microSDHC card is available now at Amazon.com and Lexar.com, with a MSRP of $149.99.
Follow us online! Twitter: www.twitter.com/lexarmedia YouTube™: www.youtube.com/lexarmediainc Facebook: www.facebook.com/LexarMedia
About Lexar Media Lexar Media is a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of NAND flash and DRAM memory products under the Lexar and Crucial® brand names. Lexar Media offers products in all major flash and DRAM memory categories, including USB flash drives, innovative backup drives, industry-leading memory cards for photography, and all popular form factors of memory cards for mobile devices. Under the Crucial brand, Lexar Media offers industry-leading solid-state drives (SSD) and more than 250,000 DRAM memory upgrades for 50,000 computer systems. For more information about Lexar brand products, visit www.lexar.com, and for Crucial brand products, visit www.crucial.com.
Lexar Media is vertically integrated with Micron Technology, one of the largest semiconductor manufacturers worldwide. Lexar Media, Inc. is a subsidiary of Micron Technology, Inc. Lexar Media is a division of Micron Europe Limited, a division of Micron Semiconductor Asia Pte. Ltd., and a division of Micron Japan, Ltd.
PrimeSense had a feeling this kind of revolution would take over the television world when we spoke with them last March at GDC, and sure enough, said revolution is happening. LG's already integrated motion controls into its sets with its Magic Remote, and now Hillcrest is providing a solution just in case the rest of the world wants to buy in. Hailed as a "turnkey solution," the Freespace MotionEngine is now integrated with Broadcom's BCM35230 digital TV SoC and BCM20730 single-chip Bluetooth solution. That's a lot of technobabble, for sure, but the long and short of it is this: by integrating this into televisions, Freespace / BT-enabled remotes that are equipped with the right sensors can allow TV viewers to control channel switching, volume levels and who knows what else with just their hands. The outfit will be busting out a demo here in Vegas, so we'll be doing our best to catch a glance. 
You won't have a difficult time hunting down a charger these days, but hunting down a good one? Now that's a challenge. If you're looking for something that's off of the beaten path (and shamelessly fond of Ma Earth), Idapt's new i1 Eco may be precisely what the doctor ordered. It's a universal charger with two points of charger: a USB port and a tip port, the latter of which is useful for "over 4,000 gadgets" include the iPad, iPhone, PSP, your Xbox 360 controller and your GPS unit. It features an auto-off system that disables it when not in use, and a restart button kicks things back into gear when the time comes. It's slated to ship this spring, but only heaven knows for how much. 
Robots, Arduino, and monsters are all very close to our new-age, gadget-loving hearts. The folks over at Union Bridge Labs have created a half-monster, half-machine dubbed the Yarn Monster. This little cubic beast has one job -- to eat yarn and shape it into a perfectly rolled ball of, well, yarn. It's powered by a ton of hardware, from a stepper motor to Arduino components to even a universal mounting hub. Instructions to control speed of the nom-noming are sent to the Arduino via XBee from a remotely connected potentiometer which can also reverse the direction of yarn-ball rolling. We encourage you to spend your hard-earned dough (about $130), buy the proper components and build one of these things to impress your loved ones. If not though, be sure to watch the video after the break. 
Qualcomm is one of the wireless industry's undisputed titans, but it's looking to shore up a few holes in its component offerings today with the planned purchase of Atheros Communications, a company that primarily specializes in WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS chipsets. Atheros isn't exactly a startup, either: at $45 a share, Qualcomm will be shelling out roughly $3.1 billion to complete the acquisition (assuming it passes all the usual bureaucratic hurdles) of a company that's got WiFi silicon in products spanning the range from phones to PCs and every fledgling category in between. The deal's expected to close in the first half of this year; follow the break for the full press release. 
No comments:
Post a Comment