Hey, a phone that Apple introduced back in 2009 (that'd be the iPhone 3GS) is now selling -- brand new with a two-year voice / data agreement -- for $49, both at AT&T and through Apple directly. Of course, you could get the far more capable iPhone 4 for a fair amount more, or you could wait until tomorrow so you'd actually have an option when it comes to carriers. Your call, obviously.
See that image above? It's not a forthcoming Palm LTE phone for Verizon Wireless, but it could be a sneak peek into Big Red's plans for the future. If you'll recall, VZW's CTO Tony Malone hinted last week at CES that integrated LTE voice + data wouldn't come until 2012 or 2013 at the earliest, and for now, all LTE devices would be relying on 3G for voice and 4G for data. Heck, not even all of the first-wave LTE devices will support simultaneous 4G data + 3G voice. Of course, we all know that LTE voice is coming eventually, and a new test portal at Verizon's official website may be a clue as to how things will be arranged once it's live. We're guessing that an admin simply populated this page with information and images from the standard Pre Plus page -- there's no way an LTE-enabled Pre is planning to slink into VZW's lineup -- but it's pretty obvious that at least someone within the company is thinking about a world where voice calls are completed over LTE. Potentially more interesting is the "4G plan pricing on this phone" line -- during Verizon's second LTE presser at CES, none of the executives on stage would talk dollars and cents, but this makes it fairly clear that there will definitely be separate plans for 4G phones, most likely ones with higher prices. Feel free to hit the source link if you'd like to poke around, but we wouldn't expect it to remain online for much longer. One more look is after the break.
Toyota made no bones about the fact that more Prius models were to be unveiled in Detroit for the North American International Auto Show, even throwing advertisements up around town asking whether it's supposed to be Priuses or Priii. (We, as you can see, chose to side-step the debate.) Now we know what's coming, first being the Prius V. It's the MPV the company has been teasing, basically just a taller version of the four-door sedan with a hatchback and a whopping 60 percent more cargo space -- 32 cubic feet, which is more than most compact SUVs. It's to be rated 42mpg city, 38 highway, and 40 combined, which is a surprising 10mpg lower than the sedan model. That's perhaps a bit disappointing, but availability this summer is a pleasant surprise.
Next is the Prius C, naturally for "concept," which is aimed at "young singles and couples." It's definitely funkier and way cooler than the current model, looking to have a nose very similar to the car's FT-86 concept. We hope the production model looks quite close to this, and while that's always a doubtful proposition we won't have all that long to wait, with it hitting dealerships in the first half of 2012. Toyota also showed off the Prius Plug-In, the very same one we test drove last year, said to be coming first to the western and eastern coasts of the US first, and re-affirmed the "patriarch" status of the current-generation Prius sedan, having sold 230,000 cars since 2009. It's good to be the king.
Oh, wow. Are you sure we're ready for this, Tesla? I mean, just last week you wouldn't even let us sit inside your Model S prototype and now... this. You sure we're not moving too fast? A fully naked Model S is on display at the company's booth, bare frame and bare aluminum separated by a Lucite riser, giving us a glimpse at the car's motor nestled between the rear wheels. Take a look at it, barely bigger than the exhaust of a modern musclecar yet powering this thing to 60mph in 5.7 seconds and up to an anticipated maximum 300 mile range. Unfortunately the tangle of wires and other components that'll actually make this thing go are missing, and the paint, but it's still a great view at the simple, obviously Elise-inspired frame that holds it all together.
If you've managed to use any piece of technology for ten years, it's safe to say that said piece has some serious lasting power in an era filled with flavors-of-the-week. It's a bit startling to think that Apple's iTunes has now fallen into that category, but sure enough, the music-turned-media-application is now a decade old. Fittingly enough, it just hit version 10.0 a few months ago, and it may very well be tweaked to play nice with an all new device later this week. Head on past the break for a look at the very first iTunes introduction at Macworld 2001, and then think about how many times you've hated your life as you watched that sync progress bar crawl along at glacial speeds. No, seriously, think about it.
Android tablets aren't exactly in short supply at CES 2011, but the Espert Identity Tab stands out -- despite hailing from a manufacturer we'd never heard of before the show. Espert's got two slick 7-inch slates on the floor, and while the E201 mostly cribs from Samsung's WiFi-only Galaxy Tab -- right down to a 1GHz Samsung Hummingbird chip -- the flagship Espert E301 pumps up the pixel density with a 1024 x 600 capacitive touchscreen, adds an all-metal case, a mobile DTV antenna, and 3G connectivity. We poked and prodded these tablets all over and got a peek at the full spec sheets, so after you peruse our gallery below, hit the break for details!
Espert E301: There's nothing quite like a device made of metal and glass, as Apple well knows, and the Espert E301 feels like a premium device because of both. Make no mistake, we're looking at an aluminum sandwich rather than a single machined unibody here -- and these prototypes had plenty of rough edges to boot -- but the E301 felt like a solid, attractive device and had very little flex to speak of. The spacious screen is not only quick and accurate, but also quite pretty for a standard TFT LCD, with good horizontal viewing angles and bright colors, and seemingly without the the oversaturation of Samsung's slate's screen. Power and volume buttons reside on one edge, a mix of capacitive and physical Android keys join a 1.3 megapixel webcam up front, there's a 5 megapixel autofocus imager around back, and all the ports (including microSD, micro-HDMI, mini-USB and a 3.5mm headphone jack) are actually on a tiny slab that slightly swings out of the bottom, next to the speakers and a pop-out TV antenna. While overseas products typically ditch their DMB antennas before making the journey stateside, that actually may not be the case here, as the E301 actually supports ATSC-M/H, the new Mobile DTV standard for us roaming US bumpkins.
Under the hood, you'll find a 1GHz ARM Cortex A8 CPU, PowerVR SGX 540 graphics, 8GB of flash storage and 512MB of RAM, 802.11 b/g/n WiFi and Bluetooth 2.1, a gyroscope, accelerometer, compass and ambient light sensor, and either a 4,100 mAh or 4,400 mAh battery good for 4 or 4.5 hours of uninterrupted video playback -- depending on which spec sheet you trust. Espert's prototypes ran Android 2.2, but reps told us it'll sport Gingerbread at launch, and they're hoping to have it run Honeycomb later on. Unfortunately, they couldn't confirm whether it'd have Android Market (and other Google apps) on board, saying the company needed to get GSM certification for the device first.
Espert E201: Presently saddled with Android 2.1 (Espert promises Froyo soon), the E201 still feels like a speedy, capable machine if not nearly as stylish or high-resolution as its successor. We only had a few minutes to toss it around, but it felt well-constructed and responded quickly to our touch, and we were surprised to find the fixed-focus 3 megapixel camera around back took decent snapshots, though the LCD panel looked a little sub-par. The Samsung Hummingbird's embedded PowerVR SGX540 graphics chip still pulls its weight here, as Asphalt 5 and Angry Birds played butter-smooth. Interestingly, there's a full-size SDHC card slot and a micro-HDMI socket under a flap up top. Tiny twin speakers and a mini-USB charge cable live on the bottom, there's a front-facing camera, mic and three physical Android buttons up front, and volume buttons on the side. What lies beneath that faux metal frame? Pretty much the same stuff as the E301, though a product brochure claims it will have a smaller 3,000mAh battery even as the spec sheet lists a 4,100mAh pack.
While Espert tells us its products are already tooling around Korea, they'll be coming stateside soon -- the Identity Tab E301 is "coming to a major US wireless carrier for a back-to-school launch," while the WiFi-only E201 will hit brick-and-mortar Best Buy stores in the first quarter of this year. We're looking forward to see how they size up. Press release below!
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ENSPERT UNVEILS LINE OF NEXT-GENERATION MULTIMEDIA ANDROID TABLETS AS PART OF 2011 IDENTITY PRODUCT ARSENAL
New Mobile Devices and ConvergenceOne Platform Let Consumers Enjoy Seamless Multimedia Sharing Across Devices
LAS VEGAS – January 5, 2011 – Enspert (http://enspert.com), a leading media convergence solution and device provider, is introducing its 2011 IDENTITY product line featuring a series of affordable Android-based multimedia tablets today at International CES. The IDENTITY tab is an innovative media and productivity device for education and entertainment, delivering color LCD e-book reader capabilities along with HD-quality video playback and Web browsing. Highlights include:
The IDENTITY tab E201 is Wi-Fi enabled and scheduled to be available at a leading consumer electronics retailer in the U.S. in early 2011. The E301 with Wi-Fi and 3G will likely be available shortly after.
Varying IDENTITY E300 series models, including the IDENTITY E301 with Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity, will be available through a leading U.S. wireless carrier in time for the 2011 back-to-school season.
The IDENTITY E302 model is Wimax enabled and slated for distribution in select in European and Asian markets.
The E300 series of tablets are based on the Android Gingerbread platform.
"Communication, productivity and multimedia sharing should be a seamless experience across devices. We empower consumers to enhance their digital lifestyle with our platform of imaginative media convergence technologies," said Chang-Suk Lee, CEO of Enspert. "The human experience is at the heart of how we design our technology offerings, with a goal of providing an expansive and intuitive environment for consuming diverse media formats."
Enspert marries the latest in portable mobile technology with elegant and fashionable devices that express the way we live and work today. In addition to the IDENTITY tab collection, the 2011 IDENTITY line features an ecosystem of smart connected devices that leverage the open-source Android operating system including smartphones, multi-device media convergence hubs, VoIP and SoIP systems, mobile hotspots and more. The new lineup of IDENTITY devices is available for demo at 2011 International CES in the South Hall Upper Level & Connector, booth number 36218, from January 6-9.
"In addition, Enspert will be offering a sneak peek at future tablet devices and presenting our vision of the tablet market at CES," continued Lee.
Enspert products, including the IDENTITY tablets, support maximum connectivity between neighboring multimedia devices using the ConvergenceOne platform, the optimal solution for 3-screen media convergence in IP-based fixed/wireless integrated network environments. Connectivity between tablets, smartphones, IPTV and PCs via DLNA protocol facilitates the sharing of digital multimedia content and allows various applications to be downloaded from the App Store.
"We're looking forward to demonstrating the latest Enspert technology at CES and expanding our presence into the U.S. and beyond," said Sang-su Lee, president of Enspert. "The IDENTITY tab E201 has already been released in Korea with KT, Korea's leading wireless carrier, and is one of few tablets commercially available through a wireless carrier. Global market demand for Enspert devices will expand rapidly starting with entry into the North American market in January and distribution announcements with some of the continent's most prominent distributors will follow shortly after."
For more information, stop by the Enspert booth at CES - South Hall Upper Level & Connector, booth number 36218.
Okay, we've seen an iPad on a dashboard. Ready for some in-car PlayBook action? Recent RIM acquisition QNX is all over it, showing off what it calls simply QNX Car. It's a basic reference implementation of some technology that will be running the infotainment systems of cars in the coming years -- though they'll surely look very different than this by then. QNX is showing how it can pull media from multiple sources, like an iPhone, use Message Access Protocol Bluetooth to pull data from a BlackBerry, and even use Terminal Mode to replicate the UI of something like the PlayBook. Plus, the PlayBook was able to change climate control settings in the car.
The company is also working on what it's called the Simple UI Protocol. It's basically a lowest-common-denominator smartphone integration -- something like Ford's AppLink that, in theory, will work regardless of the app or the hardware on the car. It's very limited, allowing just two lines of text and a few icons to be sent from the phone to the car, and just two buttons (left and right) to be sent back to the phone as controls. The idea is to remove any aspect of driver distraction and to provide AppLink-like functionality in a standard, non OEM-specific way, which we like. But, it's so limited in scope we're not sure just how useful it would be. See for yourself after the break.
One thing we're learning at CES is that the future of transportation is, apparently, pretty weird looking. The EN-V or YikeBike not odd enough? Check out the Uno from BPG Motors, a tricycle that transforms into a self-balancing, two-wheeled... thing. It's gained a wheel since the last time we saw it, a front fork that folds in between the rear wheels and the whole thing starts balancing when you need to go through some tight spaces and then, when it's time to go faster (up to around 30 or 35mph) that wheel pivots out, the whole thing lowers, and away it goes. Unfortunately we weren't allowed to pivot the thing at the show, but we have a video of the transformation after the break along with a little walk-around of the thing. Trust us: you'll want to watch them both.
Still not believing that Verizon Wireless will introduce a CDMA'd iPhone for its network tomorrow? We can't say we're completely sold either, but it's getting harder and harder to fight off the emotions pointing to "yes." The Wall Street Journal has followed up on its earlier reports by suggesting that not only will VZW soon carry Apple's iPhone 4, but that it will make no changes to its data plans once that happens. Of course, it's not like anyone actually expected Big Red to do such a thing, but it's definitely one more reason for heavy users to consider Verizon Wireless over AT&T. Grandfathered customers notwithstanding, AT&T users who buy a new iPhone 4 are hit with a few tiered data plan options, with the largest ($25 / month) being capped at 2GB. With Verizon, $29.99 per month nets you "unlimited" data, though you could run into issues if you routinely suck down more than 5GB -- a rather typical 'gotcha' in the American cellular space. The real question, however, is this: will the Verizon iPhone be compatible with Verizon's $14.99 / month (150MB) plan, and moreover, will it ever be upgradable to handle the LTE network we heard oh-so-much about just days ago? Bookmark our liveblog and tune in tomorrow to find out!
Good news for people who love bad good news. According to IDG News, this year's Consumer Electronics Show saw around 140,000 people descend upon it, which pretty much destroys the estimate of 126,000 attendees. We're told that around 126,000 humans showed up last year to see Palm introduce webOS 1.4 (and for everyone else to introduce an e-reader), while just 113,000 booked a ticket to Las Vegas for CES 2009. The last time this quantity of Earthlings arrived in the desert to get their geek on was CES 2008, or in other terms, the last year that life as we knew it was halfway normal. There's no question that we felt as if the floor was teeming with people, and the show in general just felt more alive than usual.
Furthermore, we're being hit with even more amazing news from the show floor: the official show dates for 2012. Rather than pushing CES up against a pair of holidays in Christmas and New Year's Day, the Consumer Electronics Association has finally seen fit to bump things forward a week. CES 2012 will officially be held January 10th through 13th, and we're guessing that most of the press events will start on the 8th or 9th. Sadly, we weren't able to go three for three with outstanding news today -- the show is still slated to be held in Las Vegas, so we're apologizing in advance to the internationals who will once again wonder how a place overran with neon, grotesque paper cards at every street corner and a public transportation system that only stops once every five minutes could be so highly touted.
To say Motorola's Xoom had a coming-out party at CES would be understating things greatly. It was easily one of the highlights of the show, and the potential that was shown was obviously just part of the story. According to Moto's developer page, there's actually a barometer included, right alongside an accelerometer, magnetometer, ambient light sensor and gyroscope. Oddly enough, a proximity sensor is left out of the mix, but seriously... a barometer? Truth be told, this is actually just an oft overlooked point that was first shown in VZW / Motorola's joint press release, but it's good to know that at least one flagship slate will be compatible with Android 2.3's barometer support. Here's hoping it'll be useful for helping you sidestep ugly weather patterns, or something of the sort.
Sure, we're fresh from sampling Ford's next evolutions of MyFord, the Mobile and AppLink systems, but those are due to start hitting cars in the next months and years. Sometimes it's fun to look a little further down the road, and that's what the company's Veritek concept is doing, giving us a taste of exterior styling to come in the company's C-segment cars (like the C-MAX), plus a taste of some future innovations in the drivetrain department, most notable being an alternator that boosts its output under braking to provide a regenerative-like effect despite this not being a hybrid.
While the exterior is quite striking -- showing clean, sharp, dynamic lines and the impossibly small mirrors of a concept -- it's the interior that caught our eye. Yes, futuristic interiors like these rarely look little like their subsequent production successors, but we can get get some ideas of what Ford is looking at going forward, starting with what looks like an LCD (or possibly OLED) gauge cluster, something that's increasingly common now. The concept still has MyFord five-way controllers on the steering wheel stalks, but nestled down between the seats and duplicated on the dash is an Audi MMI or iDrive-like jog wheel. Interestingly there's the silhouette of what can only be an iPhone displayed on the center, perhaps giving an indicator of where the current media is coming from. We'll see if we can track the thing down on the show floor and find out.
FORD VERTREK CONCEPT PREVIEWS A SLEEKER, SPORTIER AND MORE STYLISH COMPACT SPORT UTILITY VEHICLE
• The Vertrek concept is Ford's vision for a utility vehicle that will appeal to customers around the globe; it signals the direction Ford will take in developing a new global utility vehicle
• The concept features a stylish design, outstanding cargo space and a 1.6-liter EcoBoost™ engine equipped with Ford Auto Start-Stop technology that could deliver best-in-class fuel economy. These are key why-buys for customers around the globe
• Ford Vertrek concept is built on Ford's global C-segment platform, which will underpin more than 2 million vehicles globally by 2012
DETROIT, Jan. 10, 2011 – Ford Motor Company today unveiled its vision for a sleeker, sportier and more stylish compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) at the 2011 North American International Auto Show. The Ford Vertrek concept previews the company's ambition for a next-generation, global compact SUV that could lead the industry in both design and fuel efficiency.
The Ford Vertrek concept is based on Ford's global C-segment platform, which includes the all-new Ford Focus range launching early in 2011 in North America and Europe, plus the latest C-MAX and Grand C-MAX multi-activity vehicles. It represents the vision of the company's top design and engineering talent on how best to attract and satisfy future sport utility vehicle customers around the world.
"Vertrek concept is a no-compromise solution we feel utility vehicle customers will embrace around the world," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president of Global Product Development. "It is a revolution compared to what is typically seen in this segment in North America and is a stylish evolution compared with products outside North America. This new design is sleeker and more fuel efficient and delivers the capability, including people and cargo volume, customers demand globally."
The Ford Vertrek concept combines the best of Ford's distinctive European kinetic design styling and driving quality with outstanding levels of cargo space, trailer-tow and off-road capability for North America, promising a vehicle that meets the needs of next-generation compact utility vehicle customers around the world.
The sleek appearance of the Ford Vertrek concept has been honed aerodynamically to help support the program target of class-leading fuel economy and low CO2 emissions and complement the high-tech powertrain solutions Ford envisions.
Ford preliminary data show that a production vehicle based around the Vertrek concept would be at least 5 percent more aerodynamically efficient than current comparable Ford North American and European models, such as the Escape and Kuga.
Global solution for global needs Ford's global C-segment platform allows for the efficient creation of vehicles that address consumer tastes around the world.
"Customer demands are converging globally toward a compact sport utility vehicle that is stylish and great fun to drive while at the same time providing the package, capability, engaging technology and fuel economy they expect," said Jim Farley, group vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. "The Ford Vertrek concept will allow us to hear directly from these customers about trade-offs they are prepared to make as we look to deliver a future production model that brings to life all these attributes."
At least 10 new models will be built on the new global C-segment platform, which replaces three platforms currently in production regionally. By 2012, the new platform will account for more than 2 million units of sales, providing Ford with unprecedented economies of scale and an opportunity to offer customers around the world an array of new technologies and product features usually reserved for premium vehicles.
The compact sport utility vehicle segment is one of the largest (consistently in the top five), most competitive and fastest growing segments – more than doubling in market share since 2000 – in the U.S. It also ranks among the top four most cross-shopped segments in the U.S. It is a segment that Ford helped pioneer with the popular Escape model.
Growth in Europe of crossover products, similar to the compact sport utility vehicle segment in the U.S., has been astounding – up more than 200 percent since 2000. The Ford Kuga has consistently ranked third in its segment, in which all major manufacturers compete, since its launch in 2008. Nearly 70 percent of Kuga customers opt for the high series.
Globally, the compact SUV segment has shown growth since 2009, led by China and the U.S. The market in China is projected to increase 60 percent by 2011 compared with 2009.
"This segment is uniquely diversified across the globe," said Farley. "In the U.S. these are considered small cars, while in Europe and other markets they are considered midsize cars. No matter how you classify it, the segment is vitally important and only those manufacturers who demonstrate leadership in design, customer-focused technology, capability and fuel-efficient performance will succeed."
Kinetic design taken to the next level The sporty, sleek Ford Vertrek concept builds on Ford's global kinetic design philosophy. This distinctive and continually evolving design language is rooted in creating cars that appear to be in motion even when stationary, while at the same time communicating the engaging driving experience that Ford cars deliver.
The starting point is creating an athletic stance for the vehicle, almost like a runner in starting blocks poised and ready to burst forward. Other key elements include dynamic lines and taut surfacing, again conveying muscularity and athleticism.
Vertrek concept builds on these kinetic design fundamentals, underscoring its on-road characteristics and off-road capability.
"The Ford Vertrek concept is inspired by contemporary compact sport utility customers' expectations and aspirations," said J Mays, group vice president, Design, and chief creative officer. "It unites stylish design, world-class craftsmanship and outstanding capability to present a fresh vision that we believe will resonate globally."
High-tech gasoline and diesel powertrain solutions The Ford Vertrek concept shows how the vision of a next-generation, fuel-efficient compact SUV could become reality by extending the reach of the company's growing EcoBoost™ engine and advanced turbo diesel common-rail direct-injection (TDCi) engine families while introducing Ford Auto Start-Stop technology.
EcoBoost is fundamental to Ford's strategy to provide technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver uncompromised performance and fuel economy. Ford EcoBoost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger, less-efficient engines.
In addition to turbocharging with direct injection, Ford powertrain engineers have enhanced EcoBoost's technology capabilities by adding variable valve timing and precisely controlling all aspects of the engine. Ford has at least 125 patents on its EcoBoost technology.
Ford Vertrek concept features the highly efficient 1.6-liter four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine, giving the vehicle the power of a larger engine yet delivering significantly better fuel economy and CO2 emissions.
By 2013, 80 percent of Ford's global nameplates and 90 percent of Ford's North American nameplates will have an EcoBoost option.
Advanced diesel engines Outside the U.S., Ford also offers customers a wide range of efficient and powerful Duratorq® TDCi engines, many of which could be applied to a future production model based on the Vertrek concept. Advanced diesel technology is especially vital in Europe – 96 percent of Kugas sold are diesel-powered.
The acclaimed 2.0-liter Ford Duratorq TDCi engine has recently been upgraded to deliver even higher efficiency with improved performance, fuel economy and refinement.
A more efficient combustion system enables greater peak power, significantly improved driveability with increased responsiveness and more pulling power at low engine speeds. It also delivers reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Depending on application, CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 7 percent compared to the previous 2.0-liter Duratorq TDCi engine.
Paired with the engine will be a fuel-saving six-speed transmission. By 2013, 100 percent of Ford vehicles in the U.S. will incorporate a six-speed transmission as part of the company's commitment to leadership in fuel-economy performance in all vehicle segments.
Automatic shutdown of engine saves fuel Another key enabler of enhanced fuel efficiency is the Ford Auto Start-Stop system. This system automatically shuts down the engine when the vehicle is at idle – at a stoplight, for example – and quickly restarts the engine when the driver wants to move off.
An Auto Start-Stop system can reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 5 percent in mixed driving conditions. In city driving and in heavy traffic with frequent stops, the savings could increase to as much as 10 percent.
The advanced new Ford Auto Start-Stop system has been carefully designed with customer comfort in mind, providing consistent starting and stopping performance that is smooth, quiet and seamless, requiring no changes in driver behavior. When the engine shuts down, the electronic control unit immediately prepares the engine's systems for an instant restart. An integrated system of sensors is then used to detect when the driver performs an action that signals the intent to drive off, such as pressing the accelerator or clutch pedal.
As soon as the driver prepares to move away, the engine starts quietly and almost instantly; it takes the system only around 0.3 second to fire up the engine. The process is near imperceptible and happens before gear selection is completed. To support the increased number of engine starts, the starter motor is upgraded with a high-performance electric motor and a stronger pinion-engagement mechanism with reduced noise levels.
Smart Regenerative Charging Advanced battery technology is required to ensure the main vehicle battery copes with the frequent charge-discharge cycles common with start-stop operation. Additional technologies ensure the battery is kept charged in the most efficient way.
A Smart Regenerative Charging system increases the alternator output when the vehicle brakes or decelerates. This converts the kinetic energy of the vehicle into electric energy without using additional fuel.
The "free" electric current is used to recharge the battery, so it can be used by the electrical systems at a later stage. This could be when the engine is switched off during a stop phase but also can be when the generator is operating in a less-efficient mode.
The battery has an advanced management system that continually monitors its status and communicates with the Ford Auto Start-Stop system, so that the regenerative charging feature can charge the battery in the optimal way. The Auto Start-Stop system knows how much battery charge is available, so that it can leave the engine running if the battery does not have a sufficient level of charge.
# # # About Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 163,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.
Well, the leaks have been flying fast and furious: the presumed PlayStation Phone has been in the hands of folks for a hot minute, and now a video has popped up showing one lucky hombre playing Resident Evil 2 and Rage Racer on the device. The hardware is apparently on the up and up, although the fact that the titles had to be loaded through ROM Buddy (a third-party Android app for running ROMs) suggests that the software is still being tinkered with. Or that this is all a terrible hoax. That said, it looks like this thing is pretty much a done deal. See for yourself after the break.
OmniVision has just let loose its OV10810, hailed as the first native 16:9 CMOS image sensor to enable simultaneous 1080p HD video recording and ten megapixel image captures. The chip is built upon the company's 1.4-micron OmniBSI pixel architecture, and it's obviously aimed at digicams, camcorders and higher-end smartphones. Generally speaking, any camcorder that can snag stills on the side does so at a terribly low resolution, but this bantam slab of silicon would obviously serve as a solution. The technobabble's there after the break if you're interested, and you can commence waiting for this to make it to your favorite smartphone / camera maker... now.
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OmniVision's OV10810 -- First Native 16:9 CMOS Image Sensor to Enable Simultaneous 1080p HD Video Recording and 10-Megapixel Image Capture
Native 16:9 Aspect Ratio Designed to Support Full Screen Photo and Video Sharing
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- OmniVision Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: OVTI), a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions, today introduced the OV10810, a 10-megapixel CMOS image sensor built on OmniVision's highly optimized 1.4-micron OmniBSI™ pixel architecture. The 1/2.5-inch OV10810 is designed to offer complete convergence between high-resolution still photography and full high-definition (HD) video by combining 10-megapixel burst photography at 30 frames per second (fps) with full 1080p HD video in a native 16:9 aspect ratio. This makes the OV10810 an ideal choice for digital still and video camera (DSC/DVC) hybrids and high-end smart phones.
"The OV10810 is a 10-megapixel image sensor that allows the simultaneous capture of full-frame, 10-megapixel still images and 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second, a unique feature that is exclusive to CMOS technology," said Devang Patel, senior product marketing manager at OmniVision. "Allowing users to take pictures even while they are recording video is a key feature that bridges the gap between DSC and DVC, giving users the ultimate camera experience. Additionally, the sensor's 16:9 aspect ratio reflects the increasing popularity of HDTV by capturing photos and video that align with the wide screen displays used in most of today's TVs, notebooks and smart phones, further enhancing the user experience."
Optimized to meet the performance specifications of next generation DSC/DVC applications, the OV10810 is outfitted with improved pixel and system architectures. The enhanced 1.4-micron OmniBSI pixel features significantly improved low-light sensitivity and full well capacity, as well as higher dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio, making it the highest performing pixel in its class.
As a RAW sensor, the OV10810's integrated programmable scaler enables either 1080p or 720p HD video capture at 30 fps while maintaining full field of view (FOV). At 2.6-megapixel resolution, the sensor operates at 60 fps with pixel binning, maintaining full FOV while offering significantly improved low-light sensitivity. At 5.3-megapixel resolution with cropping, the OV10810 runs at 60 fps. High frame rates enable a number of key benefits, including: slow motion photography, no image lag for shutter-less designs, continuous shooting, minimized rolling shutter effect, and real-time still image and video capture without changing resolutions.
The OV10810 features a 2 x 2 binning functionality to improve low-light sensitivity, and a post-binning re-sampling filter that minimizes spatial artifacts and removes image artifacts around edges to deliver clean, crisp color images. The OV10810 supports up to 8-lane LVDS or MIPI interfaces for high data transfer rates, and is compatible with a wide range of custom and merchant ISPs. The OV10810 comes in a CSP3 or RW package and is currently available for sampling.
About OmniVision
OmniVision Technologies (Nasdaq: OVTI) is a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions. Its award-winning CMOS imaging technology enables superior image quality in many of today's consumer and commercial applications, including mobile phones, notebooks and webcams, digital still and video cameras, security and surveillance, entertainment devices, automotive and medical imaging systems. Find out more at http://www.ovt.com.
Ouch. Over the weekend, Boxee CEO Avner Ronen tweeted that a new firmware was imminent for the Boxee Box, and given that we'd all been led to believe that both Netflix and Vudu support were inbound shortly, the natural expectation was... well, natural. Late last night the company went live with a new build, but it was pulled from existence within a few hours. According to Boxee's blog post, the new update adds enhancements to control de-interlacing and video filters configuration, support for language selection in subtitle / audio, boosted browser performance and about 812 bug fixes. That's the good news. The bad news is two threefold: there's nary a mention of Netflix support, and while the team is just about there with Vudu, it's also remaining off of the list for this particular update. Moreover, the devs noticed such major issues that the software was yanked from the servers only hours after it was posted, and judging by official comments in the source link below, things still aren't totally ironed out. Translation? Hold tight for now, tough as it may be.
Electric? Hybrid? Series? Parallel? Who cares? The Chevrolet Volt, the very car that helped us flee a soggy and cold Washington D.C. last year, was just named North American Car of the Year at the North American International Auto Show by an independent panel of judges representing major media outlets. It bested other finalists, the Nissan Leaf and the Hyundai Sonata. The Volt has won despite scoring low marks in the swimsuit portion of the competition, but in its acceptance speech the Volt thanked all the little people and indicated it would spend the next 12 months working toward world peace and alternative drivetrain configurations for all.
The scariest looking peripheral at CES 2011? Possibly. But for those looking to gain a split-second edge on the competition, the N-Control Avenger just may be the solution Xbox 360 gamers have been looking for. Announced just a couple of months ago, the company was here in Las Vegas to actually demonstrate a fully functional model. But simply, it straps onto your first-party 360 controller, adding triggers, straps, cables and all sorts of other contraptions that aim to give you improved alternatives to pressing buttons (while freeing your thumbs up to more accurately operate the analog joysticks). Enough talk -- hop on past the break to see how exactly this $60 shell gets down to business.
Prius this ain't. Take a gander at Porsche's 918 RSR, which just rolled onto the company's stage at the 2011 North American International Auto Show. It has a 563hp traditional gasoline engine mounted amidships, with a pair of electric motors powering the front wheels that bring the total power up to a whopping 767. The electric motors are not powered by a set of batteries, as in a traditional hybrid, rather they take their power from an inertial flywheel mounted where the passenger seat would be on a road car and spinning at up to 36,000rpm. That's spun up by momentum when the car brakes and, when the driver hits a button, that momentum is converted to give an acceleratory boost.
That's the same setup as the 911 GT3 RSR Hybrid, which ran reasonably successfully last year. Its styling is obviously an extension of the 918 Spyder, with a number of cues taken from the incredibly successful Porsche 917 racer of the early '70s (dig the endplates that look like the 917's iconic fins). At this point Porsche hasn't indicated when this car will make its debut on the track, nor in which classes it will run, but one thing's for clear: this isn't for the road. So, we're a bit disappointed we still haven't any firm details on a production, street 918 -- not that we could have afforded it anyway.
Not news: NextComputing's Radius portable workstation is still stretchingdestroying the bounds of what's actually considered mobile. News: But now, the Radius is a lot more powerful than the prior iterations. The newfangled Radius is now available with Intel's Sandy Bridge processors, with the latest model of the all-in-one workstation offering multiple full-length / full-height PCI Express slots, multiple terabytes of storage and an integrated display. As for applications? It's still aimed at those who need serious oomph in the field, and frankly, editing political commercials or crunching SETI data in the Amazon sounds far more enjoyable than doing so in [insert your city here]. No offense of anything.
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Portable Workstations from NextComputing Now Available with 2nd Generation Intel Core Processors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nashua, N.H. – January 6, 2011 – NextComputing, a leading provider of portable and small footprint workstations and servers, announces the addition of the 2nd Generation Intel™ Core® processor family to its Radius all-in-one portable workstations. By adding these latest processors, based on Intel's newly redesigned micro-architecture, code-named "Sandy Bridge", NextComputing's customers can expect to achieve greatly improved performance for any processing-intensive application, due to numerous major design enhancements at the chip level.
Based on Intel's 32nm process, the "Sandy Bridge" architecture represents the next major step in the evolution of Intel micro-architecture. Users can expect better performance at higher clock speeds while consuming less power than the previous generation Intel Core processors. These 2nd Generation processors also include an on-die graphics processing unit (GPU), allowing the processor to adjust its performance and power consumption depending on an application's needs for general purpose processing, graphics, or both. In addition, features such as optimized Intel Turbo Boost and Intel Hyper-Threading technology offer intelligent core clock-speed throttling and multi-threading capabilities respectively, giving power users a significant performance boost for their most demanding applications.
NextComputing specializes in building customized portable computing solutions for power users in several key industries who require the highest-end performance in easily transportable systems. The company's Radius series portable workstations feature high-performance Intel Core i7 processing, multiple full-length / full-height PCI Express slots, and multiple terabytes (TB) of internal and removable storage – all in a compact, briefcase-sized system with integrated display.
Mobile professionals in several key industries stand to benefit from 2nd Generation Intel Core series processors, including:
* Test and Measurement – Applications like network traffic inspection and generation can achieve faster time-to-solution by processing and analyzing network data more quickly and efficiently.
* Military and Intelligence Operations – Mission critical intelligence in its various forms, whether full-motion video, RADAR, or satellite imagery, can now be analyzed and reported on faster, allowing military and homeland security personnel to more actively respond to threats.
* Video Editing – Manipulating and encoding High-Definition (HD) video are now faster, leading to increased productivity when working with complex projects.
* Digital Content Creation – Rendering lifelike computer-generated images and scenes is now faster, resulting in a more interactive creative process
"NextComputing answers the needs of professionals who need the power of a desktop or server system in a smaller, more transportable package for working out in the field," says Bob Labadini, President and CTO of NextComputing. "For years we have found innovative ways to deploy Intel micro-architecture in unique, portable designs. Now with the inclusion of the 2nd Generation Intel Core processor family in its Radius series portable workstations, our customer base of mobile power users can work even faster in any of their demanding applications."
Learn more about the Radius http://www.nextcomputing.com/products/portable-workstations/radius
As good old-fashioned girly men, we're always looking for excuses to get our nails done, so our heartfelt thanks go out to Guangzhou Taiji Electronics and their ArtPro Nail Printer line. You put a couple of white base coats on, stick your hand inside, align the desired image to your nail, and hit print -- and an inkjet head (we saw a Lenovo cartridge inside) goes to work. A few seconds later, you're ready to seal the deal with clearcoat. A simple idea, well-executed and highly satisfying. Video of our experience inside the future of the beauty industry after the jump.
Looks like that tease was more than just a tease. It's a truism. Back at Computex, Bigfoot Networks' CEO told us that his next major target was motherboards. The company already infused its Killer E2100 gaming network card into a GPU, and here at CES, it's formally announcing three partnerships with major mainboard makers. MSI, ASUS and Gigabyte are all onboard, with the latter to offer a new line of G1-Killer mobos later in the year. ASUS will be dishing out a ROG Rampage III Black Edition (shown above) which will feature the E2100 on a combined LAN / audio called dubbed ThunderBolt, but your guess is as good as ours when it comes to specifications and CPU compatibility. Pricing and release information remain a mystery across the range, but it's practically a guarantee that we'll see more of these tie-ups in the coming months.
9to5 Mac reports that Apple will drop its 10 percent restocking fees on January 11th. We've confirmed with our own sources that this is true. January 11th happens to be the day that Verizon will hold a mysterious event in New York City, presumably for the Verizon iPhone. While this certainly isn't incontrovertible evidence that the Verizon event is actually more of an Apple event, this definitely adds some tinder to the flaming rumor mill. Then again, Apple could merely be following Best Buy's lead, with the 1.11.11 date pure coincidence. Either way, we're fans of open return policies for expensive products, so if you ask us, it's more of a good thing.
So, while all the cool kids were showing off their wares at CES, the good people at Gigabyte decided to throw their own tablet party across the Pacific. The S1080 is the slate you never asked for, in that it runs Windows 7 on a dual core Atom N550 processor underneath a 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen with 1024 x 600 resolution. If multitouch navigation isn't your thing (an odd preference for those buying tablets), there are a couple of tactile mouse buttons on one edge and an optical mouse on the opposite side for thumbs-only operation. The device has a massive (for a tablet) 320GB hard drive, SD card reader, ethernet port, and USB 3.0 connectivity to sate your computing needs. Also included is a 1.3 megapixel webcam, 802.11b/g/n WiFi, and Bluetooth 3.0. Lastly, in what can only be considered an odd design choice, our Taiwanese friends elected to give the S1080 a VGA port instead of an HDMI connection. Word on the street is that the device will be less than $300 when it goes on sale next month, so if you are a member of the (presumably small) group of people who aren't interested in an Android, Apple, Blackberry, or HP slate, the S1080 may be the tablet for you.
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GIGABYTE Launches an Exciting New Slate PC Introducing the GIGABYTE S1080
Taipei, Taiwan – January 4, 2011. GIGABYTE, a longtime leader in computer technology and innovation, today announced an exciting new 10.1-inch slate PC, the S1080. The S1080 features a Windows® 7 operating system and is powered by an Intel® Atom™ N550 dual core processor.
"The S1080 is designed to be the ultimate mobile device to fit the demanding needs of consumers who need a high-performing multitasking slate that offers the full productivity of a PC," said Stephen Lee, Sales Director at GIGABYTE Notebooks. "With the S1080, users now have constant access to all their business needs including email, internet and other important applications."
Weighing under 0.90kg (1.98lb), the S1080 is both sleek and light, making it the premier choice in mobile computing. With a massive 320GB of built-in storage, users can add all their important applications and files without worrying about whether there is enough space. The large hard drive also makes it the perfect device to load custom business and enterprise applications. The S1080 also comes with USB 3.0, which provides incredibly fast transfer speeds making it very useful for a mobile device.
Featuring a striking 10.1" multi-touch backlight TFT-LCD 1024x600 display, the S1080 produces bright and clear images. With its stunning display, the slate can be used as a captivating tool during business meetings and presentations. The S1080 also comes equipped with a built-in VGA port, which allows users to hook up an external monitor or projector whenever a larger display is needed.
For onscreen navigation, the S1080 features the best of both worlds to maximize effectiveness. The 10.1" capacitive multi-touch display featuring the Windows 7 on-screen keyboard and handwriting recognition software makes navigating the display by fingertips both fun and a breeze. Or, for a more traditional PC approach, users can navigate the display using the navigator button and left and right mouse buttons to easily move the cursor around the screen to conveniently access applications and edit documents.
The S1080 is the perfect mobile device to stay connected while on the go. The slate comes with wireless 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0®, which makes it incredibly easy to access email and the internet whenever the slate is in range of wifi or a mobile hotspot. The built-in 1.3mp webcam is also an excellent feature to give users convenient mobile videoconferencing options.
We weren't able to check out the customization features of XpanD's latest active shutter LCD 3D glasses, but we did get to try them on at their booth for a moment. They're markedly lighter than the company's other 3D specs and the side pods for the battery and settings storage seem to do a decent job of blocking light from the sides. We'll need to sit down for a few rounds of NBA 2K11 3D or Resident Evil: Afterlife to know how they hold up in real life but in the meantime check out the pics in the gallery.
We've been seeing demo units of in-car Blu-ray players at CES for years, but Audiovox is apparently finally ready to offer one for sale with its AVDBR1, seen here skulking about the halls of CES. Due in the spring with an MSRP of $349.99, it can be installed under the seat or in a storage compartment and is even BD-Live compatible with optional WiFi upgrade, available after a firmware update arrives later this year. Of course, even if you like video in the car -- usually for the kids in the backseat -- there's plenty of other ways to get it including digital copies that can be activated on your phone, tablet or laptop, or DVDs included in the combo packs most major releases have. Add to this the fact that mobile screens are generally too small to make a big difference with HD and there's plenty of reasons to be skeptical, but if you are on a long road trip with only the Blu-ray copy of Black Dynamite to keep you company, you'll be glad you opted for the AVDBR1. Want more details? Check the press release after the break.
Audiovox Introduces Industry's First Automotive Blu-ray Disc Player
2011 CEA Innovation Honoree Award Winner
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- International CES, Center Hall, Booth 10406-10418 -- Audiovox Corporation (Nasdaq: VOXX) today announced the introduction of the industry's first automotive Blu-ray Disc player that plays any Blu-ray Discs as well as traditional DVDs and CD Audio Discs.
"We developed the AVDBR1 in response to the consumer preference for Blu-ray Discs in their home entertainment systems. This mobile solution will allow them to maintain a single video collection that works both in the vehicle and at home," said Tom Malone, President of Audiovox Electronics Corporation.
The AVDBR1 is installed under the seat or in a storage compartment in the vehicle and connects to any monitor by using either the HDMI, composite or component output.
The unit has been road tested to tolerate the vehicle's environment and its small size allows for multiple horizontal and vertical mounting options in the vehicle. A blue accent light is used to illuminate the slot load disc area and button array. The unit is powered from a 2-pin, 12-volt connector to the vehicle's accessory power source and comes with a full function wireless IR remote control. An 18 foot long IR extension is also included to allow for operation of the system via remote control, while the unit is concealed, under a seat, storage compartment, trunk, or cargo area. The infrared sensor will accept the IR commands from a remote and relay it back to the unit. Note: WiFi capable – for wireless media streaming (firmware upgrade available 2011). Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $349.99. This unit will be available in the spring of 2011.
"There are more than 1,600 Blu-ray titles and over 190 BD-Live content titles available in the United States today and Blu-ray content will continue to grow every year. Once again we believe we will lead the way in mobile entertainment by providing consumers with a product that connects their home lifestyle to their mobile environment," Malone concluded
For more information on Audiovox's Mobile Entertainment product line, please visit www.mobile.audiovox.com.
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About Audiovox
Audiovox (Nasdaq: VOXX) is a recognized leader in the marketing of automotive entertainment, vehicle security and remote start systems, consumer electronics products and consumer electronics accessories. The company is number one in mobile video and places in the top ten of almost every category that it sells. Among the lines marketed by Audiovox are its mobile electronics products including mobile video systems, auto sound systems including satellite radio, vehicle security and remote start systems; consumer electronics products such as MP3 players, digital camcorders, DVRs, Internet radios, clock radios, portable DVD players, multimedia products like digital picture frames and home and portable stereos; consumer electronics accessories such as indoor/outdoor antennas, connectivity products, headphones, speakers, wireless solutions, remote controls, power & surge protectors and media cleaning & storage devices; Energizer®-branded products for rechargeable batteries and battery packs for camcorders, cordless phones, digital cameras and DVD players, as well as for power supply systems, automatic voltage regulators and surge protectors. The company markets its products through an extensive distribution network that includes power retailers, 12-volt specialists, mass merchandisers and an OE sales group. The company markets products under the Audiovox, Advent, RCA, Jensen, Acoustic Research, Energizer, Code Alarm, Invision, Prestige, Schwaiger, SURFACE and Terk brands. For additional information, visit our Web site at www.audiovox.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
Except for historical information contained herein, statements made in this release that would constitute forward-looking statements may involve certain risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on currently available information and the Company assumes no responsibility to update any such forward-looking statement. The following factors, among others, may cause actual results to differ materially from the results suggested in the forward-looking statements. The factors include, but are not limited to, risks that may result from changes in the Company's business operations; our ability to keep pace with technological advances; significant competition in the mobile and consumer electronics businesses as well as the wireless business; our relationships with key suppliers and customers; quality and consumer acceptance of newly introduced products; market volatility; non-availability of product; excess inventory; price and product competition; new product introductions; the possibility that the review of our prior filings by the SEC may result in changes to our financial statements; and the possibility that stockholders or regulatory authorities may initiate proceedings against Audiovox and/or our officers and directors as a result of any restatements. Risk factors associated with our business, including some of the facts set forth herein, are detailed in the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2010 and in its most recent quarterly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Ford indicated that CES was simply the right place to debut the Ford Focus Electric, and we'd tend to agree given the company's history of showing off cool stuff at the show. But, perhaps part of that reason is because the company wasn't done with the new car announcements. In Detroit Ford has announced two new flavors of its C-MAX, both coming to the US: hybrid and plug-in hybrid. The C-MAX is a European market compact MPV, basically a tall station wagon that'll comfortably seat five and still leave room for luggage, dogs, or '70s era mainframe systems in the back. More details on both versions, plus the full PR, after the break.
The plug-in version, ala the Volt and the Prius PHEV we test drove a few months back, is called the Energi and promises to deliver a total range of 500 miles. While Ford isn't saying yet just how far it'll go on a charge before the internal combustion engine kicks on the company is confirming you will be able to drive it as a full EV at least for some distance. Neither is the company saying what kind of mileage the straight Hybrid model will deliver, except that it'll better the Ford Fusion Hybrid's 41mpg rating -- hopefully by a wide margin if it's going to trump the Prius.
The Energi will be controllable using MyFord Mobile, just like the Focus Electric, meaning owners can set up charging times automatically based on up-to-date utility costs, pre-condition the car (heating or cooling it while it's still plugged into the wall) and, additionally, can get feedback on their driving habits. The feedback will be given in real-time, too, but unlike the pretty butterflies in the Focus you get leafy vines here. It's a flora vs. fauna all over again, folks. Both models are expected to launch in the US by the end of 2012, coming to Europe a year later, in 2013. Oh, and that grille we hated on the Focus Electric? Looks like we're going to have to get over it.
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FORD SUPERCHARGES ELECTRIC VEHICLE PLAN, UNVEILING NEW C-MAX ENERGI AND C-MAX HYBRID PRODUCTS
• Ford will launch C-MAX Energi, its first-ever production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, and C-MAX Hybrid, a full hybrid variant, in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013
• Both versions of the five-passenger multi-activity vehicle will leverage the company's global C-car platform, critically acclaimed powersplit hybrid architecture, next-generation driver information features and advanced, lighter and smaller lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery systems
• C-MAX Hybrid is targeted to deliver better miles per gallon than Ford Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient sedan in America
• C-MAX Energi targets more than 500 miles (800 kilometers) of driving range using the battery and engine, more than any other plug-in or extended-range vehicle. It also targets AT-PZEV status and delivers better charge-sustaining fuel economy than Chevrolet Volt
DETROIT, Jan. 10, 2011 – Ford today revealed two next-generation hybrid vehicles – including its first production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle – at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, bringing consumers more choice, versatility and style for high-mileage family-friendly vehicles.
Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid and C-MAX Hybrid are based on the new Ford C-MAX five-passenger multi-activity vehicle, and each will offer high mileage and low emissions as well as distinctive body design and a flexible interior. The plug-in hybrid and third-generation full hybrid leverage Ford's global C-car platform, acclaimed powersplit architecture, next-generation driver information features and advanced lithium-ion battery systems. "C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid will be perfect for families looking to maximize their hybrid car experience," said Nancy Gioia, Ford director of Global Electrification. "Thanks to the versatile interior, these cars are going to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers who need room to grow."
C-MAX Hybrid is targeted to deliver better fuel economy than the 41 mpg Ford Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient sedan in America today. It builds on the success of the critically acclaimed powersplit architecture Ford uses in its current hybrids, allowing it to operate in fuel-saving electric mode beyond 47 mph.
Both the C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid models will be built alongside the all-new 2012 Ford Focus and Focus Electric at Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Mich. The plant's production is powered in part by one of the largest solar energy generator systems in the state. The C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid vehicles sold in Europe in 2013 will be built at Ford's plant in Valencia, Spain, starting in 2013.
The plug-in advantage Targeted to achieve AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) status, C-MAX Energi provides maximum fuel efficiency by pairing a high-voltage lithium-ion battery and electric traction motor with a high-efficiency Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine. This allows it to run in electric mode before using the gasoline engine.
C-MAX Energi will offer more than 500 miles (800 kilometers) of overall driving range using the battery and engine – more than any other plug-in or extended-range electric vehicle. C-MAX Energi delivers better charge-sustaining fuel economy than Chevrolet Volt.
In general, plug-in hybrid vehicles offer several benefits, including: • Electric driving range, perfect for emissions-free and silent city driving • Potential consumer savings on energy and fuel costs thanks to improved fuel efficiency over a standard hybrid • Reduced dependency on petroleum and increased energy independence • Reduced environmental impact through reductions in greenhouse gas emissions • Increased use of electricity from renewable energy sources (e.g. wind and solar), where available, for vehicle recharging
"A plug-in hybrid owner may make fewer trips to the pump to refuel because of its all-electric mode capability," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford vice president of Global Product Development. "Conveniently, they'll be able to recharge their plug-in hybrid at home overnight. And they'll never have to think about the vehicle's electric range, because the plug-in hybrid seamlessly shifts to fuel power when needed."
The development of Ford's first-ever production plug-in hybrid leverages more than 200,000 miles of road testing conducted in collaboration with a coalition of 10 utility companies, the U.S. Department of Energy, the New York State Energy Research and Development Administration and the Electric Power Research Institute.
Getting charged up C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid will use advanced lithium-ion battery systems developed and assembled in-house by Ford in Michigan. Each system is smartly designed to maximize use of common, high-quality components, such as control board hardware that has proven field performance in Ford's current, critically acclaimed hybrid vehicles.
Li-ion battery packs offer a number of advantages over the nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries that power today's hybrid vehicles. In general, they are 25 to 30 percent smaller and 50 percent lighter, which makes them easier to package in a vehicle, and can be tuned to increase power to boost acceleration or to increase energy to extend driving distance.
While C-MAX Hybrid will operate much like today's hybrid vehicles, C-MAX Energi will benefit from daily charging to maximize its all-electric range. Thanks to the efficiencies of its right-sized battery system, the plug-in hybrid easily recharges 100 percent overnight on a 120-volt outlet.
A full charge in C MAX Energi allows owners to increase their driving significantly in all-electric mode and drastically reduce their use of the on-board fuel engine.
On start-up, C-MAX Energi will operate in charge-depletion mode, providing electric driving range. When the battery has been depleted or certain conditions are met, it switches to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency.
Ford worked with a supplier to provide an industry-standard five-point plug for C-MAX Energi (and new Focus Electric) that is ergonomically comfortable to hold as well as durably and distinctively designed. The plug handle uses a matte-finished black rubber for a comfortable, non-slip grip and the plug head is shielded with a glossy white hard plastic to protect the electronics. The Ford Blue Oval trademark helps make the device immediately recognizable.
When the cord set connector is plugged into the vehicle's charge port, which is located conveniently between the driver's door and front wheel well, it activates a light ring that loops around the port twice in acknowledgement of connectivity. The light ring then illuminates in quadrants as the vehicle charges. Flashing quadrants represent charge in progress and solid-lit quadrants show stages of charge completion. When the entire ring is solidly lit, the vehicle is fully charged.
Smarter interface C-MAX Energi owners will have access to a suite of driver information systems – on-board and off-board – designed to help them manage the recharge process, manage the most eco-friendly route on-board, remotely control their vehicle's charge and preconditioning settings, monitor battery state of charge and maximize energy efficiency to extend use of electric mode. C-MAX Hybrid owners also will benefit from the on-board features.
Among these tools is a unique execution of MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology, especially for electrified driving. It offers exceptional configurability of vehicle information, including fuel level, battery power level, and average and instant miles per gallon.
The cluster's new MyView feature allows drivers to access even more vehicle data such as the electrical demands of vehicle accessories, including air conditioning, which influences fuel economy and the electric driving range of the C-MAX Energi.
The Brake Coach feature helps to educate drivers to optimize their use of the regenerative brakes to recapture kinetic energy and send it back to the battery, also reducing wear on the brakes.
Long-term fuel efficiency can be displayed in two ways – either as a traditional chart or using an innovative display that shows a growing leafy vine on the right side of the cluster. The more efficient a customer is, the more lush and beautiful the leaves and vines become, creating a unique visual reward for the driver's efforts.
To reinforce the message, at the end of each trip a display screen provides distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, fuel consumed (average and total) and a regenerative braking score.
New MyFord Mobile Off-board, C-MAX Energi owners in North America can maintain constant contact with the car anywhere they have mobile phone or web access using the Ford-developed MyFord Mobile.
MyFord Mobile enables access to a secure Ford website and smartphone/feature phone app to get instant vehicle status information, perform key functions remotely, monitor the car's state of charge and current range, get various alerts including when the vehicle requires charging, remotely program charge settings and download vehicle data for analysis.
The feature also allows the owner to program the vehicle to use electricity from the grid to heat or cool the battery and cabin while plugged in. For example, during hot summer months, owners can preprogram the car the evening before to be fully charged – and fully cooled to a particular temperature – by a certain time the following morning. Users can also locate the vehicle with GPS, remotely start the vehicle, and remotely lock and unlock the car doors.
Working with MapQuest®, MyFord Mobile can communicate charge station and other points of interest to C-MAX Energi using SYNC's Traffic, Directions and Information (TDI) service. Turn-by-turn guidance is provided by the in-car map-based Navigation System. Drivers can also get up-to-date charging station information in their vehicle directly through SYNC TDI simply by connecting to SYNC Services.
Value charging, powered by Microsoft Using the value charging feature, powered by Microsoft, C-MAX Energi owners in North America will be able to optimize their home's energy use and vehicle recharging practices. Value charging allows Ford customers to reduce their electricity costs by taking advantage of off-peak or reduced rates from their utility without a complicated set-up process.
"Although C-MAX Energi owners won't have to plug in, by doing so they'll get the benefits of driving in electric mode for longer distances; that can mean fewer trips to the gas station and less emissions when driving," said Sherif Marakby, director of Ford's hybrid and electric programs. "That's why we'll be providing C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid owners with a user-friendly interface and tools like value charging that will help them get the most out of the vehicle's electric mode capability."
Proven powersplit technology C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid build on the success of the critically acclaimed powersplit architecture Ford uses in its current hybrids, including the Ford Fusion Hybrid, winner of the 2010 MOTOR TREND Car of the Year® award.
In a powersplit hybrid, the electric motor and gasoline-powered engine can work together or separately to maximize efficiency. The engine also can operate independently of vehicle speed, charging the batteries or providing power to the wheels as needed. The motor alone can provide sufficient power to the wheels in low-speed, low-load conditions, and work with the engine at higher speeds.
While this system enables the current Fusion Hybrid to operate in fuel-saving electric mode up to 47 mph, Ford is targeting higher electric operating speeds for C-MAX Hybrid and even more capability for C-MAX Energi, which will have the advantage of additional battery power.
Ford's global C-car strategy C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid are two of at least 10 new models or derivatives that Ford will launch around the world based on its new global C-car platform – Ford's first truly global One Ford platform.
Ford's new generation of C-segment vehicles will be sold in more than 120 markets and will account for more than 2 million units annually. The C-segment accounts for one in four cars sold worldwide today and, in conjunction with the B-segment, is expected to rise to 50 percent of all cars sold globally by 2013.
The all-new C-MAX lineup also introduces a number of advanced new technologies to the compact multi-activity vehicle class. More often found only on larger or more premium cars, these technologies are focused on enhanced comfort, safety and sustainability, including the availability of new and powerful, yet highly fuel-efficient, low-CO2 Ford EcoBoost™ gas engines.
The previous European C-MAX established a reputation for providing a balance of enjoyable driving dynamics and impressive comfort. The all-new model is set to take that performance to a new level, giving drivers a class-leading combination of responsive, sporty handling and overall refinement approaching the standards usually associated with larger, luxury vehicles.
C-MAX Energi and C-MAX Hybrid are two of five electrified vehicles that Ford will bring to the North American market during the next two years. In addition, the Ford Transit Connect Electric small commercial van, built in collaboration with Azure Dynamics, began initial production at the end of 2010, and Focus Electric will launch in late 2011. A second next-generation hybrid electric vehicle will be announced later and available in North America and Europe in 2012.
# # # About Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 163,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.
Each week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.
It was a monumental week for eco architecture as renewably-powered projects sprung up around the world. Japan unveiled plans for a massive new type of wind power tower, and we were wowed by a proposal to transform abandoned Italian viaducts into high-tech energy centers. We also showcased a solar-powered Dutch pavilion that can generate as much power as it consumes, and we were awestruck by one designer's plan for a crazy vertical skyscraper amusement park.
In other news, eco transportation blazed a trail as a student-designed solar car smashed a world speed record. The recently released Chevy Volt outsold the Nissan Leaf by a huge margin last month, and we took a look at a breakthrough battery tech that could enable electric vehicles to charge 40 times faster. We also saw efficient aviation take to the skies as Honda launched a new jet that consumes 20% less fuel than comparable planes, and speaking of jet fuel, this week we learned that banned Four Loko beverages are being recycled into engine-ready ethanol.
Looking down at gauges? Officially passe. Check out Pioneer's vision of the future, a prototype that uses an embedded laser projector (a Microvision, as it were). They showed it a little earlier in Japan but this is the first time we've seen it in the US, and we got a chance to try it out. Right now it's just running a static demo, but the idea is that a virtual concierge (represented by our favorite mascot pops up to give you information, and you could also get streaming video from traffic cameras, all without you having to look down. The information is supposed to come via a smartphone, we learned later an Android one at that, though things are a little vague. A release date is a little vague too, sometime in 2012, though we're told the company is working with car companies. But could we get this by next year? We'll see.
The Motorola Xoom is a huge product this year for two reasons: it's a major first tablet from a major Android manufacturer, and it's the flagship device for Honeycomb, an OS that's been announced for dozens of other tablets here at the show, but not actually shown running on any of them. The only problem is that Motorola isn't really showing Honeycomb on the Xoom, either. Instead they're showing a demo video of the UI, which is actually running on top of real Honeycomb. For a glimpse under the covers, Jacob snagged a quick illicit peek at a totally unpopulated home screen, the gallery app, and even the task switcher the other day. We'll just keep that between us, however, and until we get a full-on official look at the UI, we thought we'd walk you through that demo UI video Moto is running on the actual tablet and pretend like we're actually using the thing, which should clear up some of the confusion on this brand new tablet OS while simultaneously stoking our egos. Check it out after the break.
Update: Here's the gallery of the non-pretend and very real UI shots we peeked in the first hands-on post (including a shot of the task switcher in its current form).
Ever wish you could bring the palpation-indusing bass, disorienting mids, and ear-rupturing highs of a concert with you whenever you drive? That your ears would still be ringing the morning after cruising home from the grocery store? That's the idea behind the Fender premium car audio system, which will be taking center stage in Volkswagen's new sub-$20k Passat -- which, by the way, is built at a new plant in Chattanooga, TN. The in-car audio system is the result of a partnership with Panasonic that was announced way back in 2007. VW hasn't quite fully unveiled the car in the flesh to the world yet (that's coming tomorrow), but it did see fit to host an event teasing the car, issuing a press release that states the system will "bring the raw emotion of live music to the driving experience." We've tried to capture that experience in the video below, which makes us very excited for the company's latest sedan indeed.
Passat / World Premiere / NAIAS / VOLKSWAGEN / 03 The Passat sets new standards for comfort, with a significantly larger rear seating area, bestin- class rear seat legroom, well-designed controls and superior touring properties. Other standard features include automatic climate control, power windows all around, air conditioning, insulating glass, a distinctive analog clock at the center of the instrument panel, cruise control, outside temperature display with frost warning, radio-CD system (MP3-capable, plus external audio input) and Bluetooth connectivity. Premium options include 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels, power seat adjustment, leather, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, a touchscreen satellite radio, a choice of Volkswagen's RNS 510 or RNS 315 navigation systems, front fog lights with static cornering lights, wood decor, new ambiance lighting, memory driver's seat, power passenger seat, and keyless access with push button start. The Passat will also offer the new Fender premium audio system, designed exclusively for Volkswagen. In a partnership that combined quality automotive engineering and quality sound engineering, Volkswagen and Fender teamed up to bring the raw emotion of live music to the driving experience. Exterior The Passat's balanced proportions give it a unique, timeless and dominant styling reflecting the "design DNA" developed by Walter de Silva, the Italian design chief for the Volkswagen Group and Klaus Bischoff, the German design leader for the Volkswagen Brand. The signature clean design, with a predominance of horizontal body elements, reinforces the Passat's position as the sophisticated choice in the midsize segment. The bottom line: this car looks much more expensive than it actually is. The key identifying feature of a strong brand is the styling of its front end. Here the Passat displays the new horizontal brand face, with the grille and headlights forming a single unit. Unlike models in the compact class, the Passat's grille is sculpted in a three-dimensional shape. Moreover, the grille stands more upright and makes a more distinctive and elegant impression in its stricter geometry. From the side profile, the muscular ridge in the sill area creates a lively interplay of light reflections. Powerfully sculpted wheel arches emphasize the dynamic properties of the Passat. In the balance of the side profile, the roof lines flow toward the back with a nearly
You've surely checked out our BlackBerry PlayBook preview by now, so you know that we're very impressed with the state of the tablet at this point in time. Still, we're somewhat dumbfounded by the lack of native messaging and calendar clients, and until now we've been in the dark on exactly how RIM planned to execute this. Enter BlackBerry Bridge -- the app suite that allows your Bluetooth-tethered BlackBerry device to manage your Messages, Calendar, and -- yes -- BBM. Head past the break for a video of these in action (sorry it's a little shaky and loud, we were on the floor), as well as a quick rundown of some of the basics -- and we've got a bonus gallery of some first-party PlayBook accessories thrown in for good measure.
The two handhelds are automagically kept perfectly in sync so long as you're within Bluetooth range: send an e-mail from the PlayBook and it shows up as sent on your BB screen, add or delete events from calendar on one device and changes show up accordingly. Finally, BBM on the gorgeous 7-inch screen will make the true fanboys and girls go gaga -- even things like delivery and read confirmation are synced between the two (though we didn't get to check out sending an image or the venerable PING!!!). These apps look pretty minimal at this point, but like most other aspects we've seen thus far, we're kind of digging it. This early build had trouble running all three apps simultaneously, but we'll chalk that up to simple software glitches and we're sure it'll get sorted before this slate ships later in Q1.
We're really glad to see that RIM has a solid implementation for this stuff, but that still doesn't detract from the fact that you need to own a BlackBerry to get all this functionality. Even cheap Android tablets and the PMPs have these capabilities off the shelf, and it's really inexcusable for the company to expect non BlackBerry users to switch for the sole purpose of this basic stuff. Since the device doesn't have a PIN -- at this point at least -- it's not looking too good for users of other mobile platforms, and we're curious about how it'll end up working should RIM change its tune. We understand that there are possible security issues (and let's face it, the company still caters mainly to the enterprise), but it just isn't acceptable for this thing to not have native apps for such no-brainer functions. Yes the browser is pretty awesome and can load Gmail just fine, but the BlackBerry's claim to fame is its stellar messaging services and it seems kind of unholy that it still has a big ole BlackBerry logo up front but can't do any push services without another dedicated device. We're hoping that at some point between now and the time this launches RIM will see the writing on the wall and the PlayBook will get the stuff in due time(See update below). For now though, see the bridge in action in our hands-on video from the show floor.
Update: Well, it looks like we may have spoken too soon. An interview with Ryan Biden (the Senior Product Manager of the PlayBook team) just posted to the Inside BlackBerry blog confirms that "there will be a native e-mail, calendar, contacts, all those similar kinds of apps as the platform evolves." The interesting stuff starts around 3:40.
Joshua Topolsky & Paul Miller contributed to this post
There's been no shortage of glasses-free 3D at CES but we can't say we expected Stream TV, makers of those Elocity tablets, to be showing off wares of its own. While the company is promising lots of spectacle-free TVs with parallax screens in the next year, at its booth there was just a 42-inch 1080p 3T1 panel on the show floor. We've got mixed feelings about this one; as you can see in the gallery below, the display looks very grainy and the converted HD 2D-to-3D content, while it did look three dimensional (as much as you can say), it didn't appear to be high definition by any means. However, there was one nature clip that was apparently shot in 3D, which looked incredibly crisp. Yeah, it was almost like we were watching that waterfall from a helicopter overheard. We can't say the three-dee experience is as jaw-dropping as the one provided with active shutter glasses, but it is impressive to think you don't have to wear a piece of $100 technology on your face to get images jumping into your living room. Viewing angles were actually pretty impressive -- at least in comparison to the other glasses-free 3D displays we've seen -- and tilting our head slightly didn't throw off the 3D effect too much. Steam TV is planning to release the 3T1 in May along with a 52-inch version and then 56- and 60-inch versions in September -- that will have 'em beating Toshiba to market, but we're not quite sure in quality.
Every CES there's something so alluring that we can't help going back for seconds (or thirds). This year it happens to be the Motorola Atrix, which is undoubtedly our gadget of the show, and which Myriam already put together an in-depth hands-on for. We've been using every excuse we can to swing past Motorola's booth "on our way" to other stuff on the show floor, and we finally broke down and went in for another hands-on. Check out our video walkthrough after the break, which hopefully should help explain the transition the Atrix can make from phone to desktop to laptop to set-top box. And please excuse our enthusiasm.
You didn't think were were done with tablets at CES just yet, did you? This latest offering comes courtesy of Azpen, which is actually introducing two variations on a dual-boot Windows 7 / Android tablet: one with a 16:9, 10.1-inch screen, and one with a 4:3, 9.7-inch display. Both are otherwise identical, however, and pack an Atom N455 processor, a capacitive display, "up to" 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, a microSD card slot, two USB ports, and Android 2.2 alongside Windows 7 (though the early demo unit on display was only running Android 1.6). Unfortunately, that dual-boot functionality also leaves these demanding quite a premium over your run of the mill Android tablet -- look for them each to set you back $500 when they launch in a few weeks. Hit up the gallery below for a closer look.
Philips has been touting its uWand "direct pointer" remote for a good while now, but we've never had the chance to actually use one ourselves. Today that omission has been rectified as we got our mitts around this motion / gesture-based controller and gave it a quick test drive. It works by having an infrared camera embedded in the front, which detects an IR beacon in your TV and thereby judges its own distance, tilt and relation to the TV. That then allows for things like motion-based zooming, pointing the remote at the particular thing on the television that you want to "click" on, and navigational shortcuts attached to gestures performed with this handheld. There's also a nice spacious keyboard on the back, assisting in the use of all these Smart TVs CES has been littered with. Philips' intention is to license the technology out to other manufacturers, which could result in consumer products by 2012 -- so yeah, it's not terribly close to your living room yet, but our gallery of images is.
Ah, the connected home... the ultimate Jetsonian fantasy that refuses to come true. LG's doing its best to change that with its Thinq lineup of connected appliances announced and demonstrated for the first time here in Las Vegas. The details of connectivity and interoperability are scarce but we do know that the appliances support both WiFi and ZigBee connectivity in order to communicate with each other, your in-home smart meter, and with smartphones when outside of the home. So far, LG has announced four Thinq devices including a vacuum, fridge, oven, and washer and dryer pair. That's a pretty strong foundation to build from especially if your home is already equipped with ZigBee devices like automated light switches, window controllers, and locks. Each LG appliance brings a rather lengthy list of features many of which are accessible remotely on a smartphone app (Android was demonstrated). It's just hard to fathom how useful they are without a humanoid robot capable of moving the finished wash into the dryer or putting the porkroast in the oven. And while being able to look up the contents of your fridge as you enter the supermarket sounds compelling, knowing that the owner has to manage the list manually (there's no UPC code scanner and RFID is still just a dream) tarnishes our enthusiasm quite a bit. Still, Thinq is definitely a step in the right direction. Watch LG make its pitch after the break.
Well, along with all the other things that happened this year at CES, Bang & Olufsen announced a new cooperation agreement with Intel. What does that mean to you, the consumer? Not terribly much, on the outside -- B&O products have carried Intel chips in the past, but this marks the first time the two companies have had an official relationship, and should mean we'll be seeing refreshes of B&O products every time Intel brings forth new chips. And that's always great news, isn't it? Hit up the source link for full, flowery quotes from reps at both Intel and Bang & Olfusen. Full press release is after the break.
Show full PR text
Bang & Olufsen enters strategic cooperation
with Intel
Bang & Olufsen is working in cooperation with Intel to gain access to the latest technologies, and to provide Intel with first hand information in the consumer electronics industry from a leader in the high-end segment.
Bang & Olufsen, a worldwide provider of exclusive, high quality audio and video products is working closely with Intel, the world leader in silicon innovation.
"During this convergence of PC, TV and audio technologies, this strategic cooperation with Intel is hugely important to Bang & Olufsen. We are looking forward to working with Intel on creating unique product solutions for the future", says Kalle Hvidt Nielsen, President & CEO, Bang & Olufsen.
"This strategic cooperation with Intel provides Bang & Olufsen with access to the latest silicon process technologies. This will enable Bang & Olufsen to stay at the technological forefront in the future and increase the efficiency of Bang & Olufsen's product development", Kalle Hvidt Nielsen continues.
"Bang & Olufsen represents a unique opportunity and brings a deep understanding of the high-end consumer DTV market to this exciting cooperation", says Wilfred Martis, General Manager, Retail CE, Digital Home Group, Intel Corporation. "Intel looks forward to this collaboration to develop smart TV enabling products that take advantage of Bang & Olufsen's design and engineering expertise."
Bang & Olufsen will be launching this cooperation at the 2011 International CES in Las Vegas, January 6-9.
Hanvon is aiming to fill the chasm between monochromatic e-readers and color LCD-based tablets at CES this year with its all-new color e-reader. It features the famed 9.7-inch color E Ink panel, the first of its kind, and offers the rather spectacular resolution of 1200 x 1600. We managed to spend a few precious moments with a prototype unit and were impressed by the solid and thin construction and the excellent viewing angles on offer. Sadly, there's plenty of bad news here too: the E920's colors are muted and not really on par with what you'd expect from even a mediocre LCD, refresh rates are pretty glacial, and the touchscreen functionality is of the resistive kind, meaning you'll have to resort to using the integrated stylus for navigation. The biggest downer, however, is that China, the first market for this e-reader, won't be getting it until May at the earliest. That's a long time to wait for a $500-ish slate. Video after the break.
Update: There was some initial confusion about the device's name and specs, which has since been rectified and the post updated accordingly. [Thanks, Michalis]
We spent a few minutes at the show this week ogling the prototype displays that Samsung's Mobile Display unit has produced over the last few months, headlined by some particularly awesome 4.5-inch flexible and 19-inch transparent AMOLEDs. Let's start with the flexible unit: Sammy seems to be particularly excited about this one, demonstrating on video that it's shatter-proof by bashing it repeatedly with a sledgehammer -- compare that to the inevitably disastrous consequences of dropping an iPhone onto concrete, and they've already won us over. Although the company still has some manufacturing challenges to overcome, commercial interest seems to be strong and they'll eventually be on the market (though not in 2011, sadly).
The picture for the transparent displays is a little murkier -- both physically and from a business perspective. Though they're not as clear as regular glass or as crisp and bright as a traditional AMOLED display, you've got to marvel at what they're doing here: full see-through color at effectively small television sizes. Interestingly, Samsung tells us that they're really close to being production-ready with these -- possibly even close than the flexible screens -- but they're still looking for business cases that'd make mass-producing them a worthwhile venture. Follow the break for some video of these bad boys, along with a 7-inch Super AMOLED that's looking Galaxy Tab-ready (and some other goodies)!
Hey, a phone that Apple introduced back in 2009 (that'd be the iPhone 3GS) is now selling -- brand new with a two-year voice / data agreement -- for $49, both at AT&T and through Apple directly. Of course, you could get the far more capable iPhone 4 for a fair amount more, or you could wait until tomorrow so you'd actually have an option when it comes to carriers. Your call, obviously.
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