| Enzo's Pinball gets you all touchy-feely with your phone Posted: 08 Apr 2011 10:57 AM PDT We got a hands-on sample of Haptify's haptic-powered apps a couple months back and came away intrigued, but yearning for more. Well, the company is finally ready to sate our penchant for playtime physicality with its first game, Enzo's Pinball. The game debuts with three tables ("more coming soon"), and is designed to let you feel every bump, rattle, and ricochet as if it were the real thing. It isn't identical to its tangible counterpart, but it is an upgrade over the rumble-free digital competition. Haptify's haptic black magic works with handsets running Android 2.1 and up, so there's an awful lot of potential pinball wizards out there. You can grab the game in the Android Market and it'll cost $1.49 to give in to your tactile desires. |
| Prototype Tesla-powered RAV4 driven, demonstrates extreme brake regen Posted: 08 Apr 2011 10:23 AM PDT What happens when you put the powertrain from a Tesla Roadster into an SUV? You get the Toyota RAV4 EV, an early prototype of which PluginCars got a chance to drive. It referred to a "sophisticated proof of concept," basically a drivable show car, and the performance is reasonably stout: 0 - 60MPH in nine seconds -- not bad for a 3,900lb car. Range is estimated to be 100 miles in real-world conditions, but that's liable to change between now and when the car is expected to hit dealers, sometime toward the end of 2012. We're guessing the Roadster-style pushbutton gear selector will be gone by then, too. |
| D-Link does the NAS dance with new ShareCenter DNS-320 and DNS-325 home servers Posted: 08 Apr 2011 09:59 AM PDT  Many of us have a smartphone, set-top box, and a PC or two, and it's always nice (and sometimes necessary) to have access to your data no matter which gadget you've got on hand. Enter D-Link's newest ShareCenter NAS servers, the DNS-320 and DNS-325 to accomplish the task of digital distribution. Both pack dual SATA 3.5-inch drive bays for up to 4TB of total storage, a single USB 2.0 port, RAID support, integrated P2P, gigabit Ethernet, and a built in web file-server app (too bad they didn't follow QNAP's lead and give us a dedicated smartphone app as well). Available now, the $110 DNS-320's got an 800MHz processor and 128MB of RAM, while those willing to pony up $200 for the DNS-325 get 1.2GHz silicon, 256MB of memory, photo gallery and audio streaming apps, plus the ability to host your blog directly from the device. If you want a 1TB drive pre-installed, prices jump to $200 for the DNS-320 and $280 for the DNS-325 when they drop next month. A small price to pay in preparation for World Backup Day, wouldn't you say? Show full PR text D-Link® ShareCenter® Solutions Offer Easy Backup, File Sharing, Media Streaming, and Remote Access for Today's Digital Home
New 2-Bay Network Storage Solutions with Superior Performance, Re-designed Interface and Enhanced Media Functionality for Home Users Now Shipping
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. – April 6, 2011 – D-Link today announced the availability of its ShareCenter® 2-Bay Network Storage devices, the DNS-320 and DNS-325. With shared storage serving as an essential element in today's digital home, these network-attached storage (NAS) solutions feature an upgraded hardware platform and intuitive user interface, enabling consumers to easily share documents, files and digital media with everyone on a home network[i].
The next generation of the award-winning DNS-321 and DNS-323, the new DNS-320 and DNS-325 provide users with centralized storage to help protect, manage, share, stream and remotely access data. Both products feature two SATA HD bays for 3.5-inch drives of either 1TB or 2TB capacities, ensuring plenty of storage for today's home users. Whether streaming movies, sharing files, or storing video from a network camera, D-Link® ShareCenter storage solutions are designed to let consumers work, play, and share from any room in the home or from a remote location, over the Internet. A complementary piece to D-Link's digital home solutions, consumers can utilize ShareCenter products for a number of applications – whether it's connecting directly to the wireless router, storing video from mydlink-enabled IP cameras, or streaming video to your TV using the Boxee Box by D-Link.
"From music for your iPod to photos from your digital SLR to videos for streaming, the need for centralized storage has increased dramatically in today's connected households," said Daniel Kelley, associate vice president of consumer marketing, D-Link North America. "Our new ShareCenter products enable users to easily backup their digital lives with added capabilities and advanced technology to get the most out of their home networks."
Installation of ShareCenter devices is simple, and if more storage is needed, easy expansion allows consumers to add additional hard drives without using tools or attaching any cables. Both solutions include Farstone's Total Recovery Pro Backup software to manage scheduled and incremental network backups, enabling users to backup all the computers in their home without having to hassle with physically connecting each device to a USB drive. In addition to content back-up and RAID support for data protection, the DNS-320 and DNS-325 also feature remote access to files through a built-in web file server app and FTP server. With the included remote backup application, users can easily backup content to a second storage device at another location to protect against data loss in the event of a catastrophe. And, using the USB port in each device, users can share a single printer among all of the computers in a household over the network. Additionally, users can automatically download content from the web without powering on a PC with the integrated Peer-to-Peer Downloader or access their files at top speeds without bottlenecking with the Gigabit Ethernet port.
The DNS-320 includes its own internal 800 MHz processor, a simplified interface and software for finding and managing files. The DNS-325 features increased speeds due to its upgraded 1.2 GHz processor. Its rugged, compact design makes for easy desktop placement. It also includes applications, such as a photo gallery, an audio streamer and a Blog application that allows users to host their own blogs directly from the device, making the DNS-325 an ideal solution for not only storage, but also for streaming media over a home network. It can also support additional add-on applications as they are developed. Both products also feature AFP and Time Machine support for Mac users.
The DNLA-certified DNS-320 and DNS-325 both feature an upgraded warranty of three years, compared with the one year warranty of prior ShareCenter products.
Availability and Pricing
The DNS-320 and DNS-325 are currently available throughout the D-Link network of retail and e-tail outlets in North America, including Fry's Electronics, Micro Center, J&R, Amazon, Tiger Direct, NewEgg, Buy.com, and at the company's online store, http://www.dlinkshop.com Street prices for the DNS-320 and DNS-325 are $109.99 and $199.99, respectively. In addition, D-Link will also launch the DSN-320-110 and DNS-325-110 (pre-configured with a 1TB disk drive) in May 2011 for $199.99 and $279.99, respectively.
About D-Link
D-Link is the global leader in connectivity for home, small business, mid- to large-sized enterprise environments, and service providers. An award-winning designer, developer, and manufacturer, D-Link implements and supports unified network solutions that integrate capabilities in switching, wireless, broadband, storage, IP Surveillance, and cloud-based network management. For more information visit www.dlink.com or connect with D-Link on Facebook (www.facebook/dlink) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/dlink). |
| Verizon pushes out update for Galaxy Tab, promises improved battery life, browser performance Posted: 08 Apr 2011 09:33 AM PDT Feeling less than enthused with your Galaxy Tab? Verizon feels your pain: the carrier is rolling out an update to the tablet, whose LTE radio and higher-resolution rear camera took us by surprise at CES. In particular, the tweaks promise to speed up browser performance and extend battery life -- a familiar challenge with 4G devices. The update also packs a slew of improvements to the non-Gmail email app (if you even use it), including better font sizing and linking, a line in the status bar indicating the time the email was received, larger attachment openings, Word doc downloads, and the ability to send multiple name cards. If your Tab hasn't received the update yet, well, keep your eyes peeled. |
| Engadget Podcast 235 - 04.08.2011 Posted: 08 Apr 2011 09:00 AM PDT What's that? Oh, it's just the return of the Engadget Podcast, leaner, meaner, and laser-focused on bringing you the freshest jams of the technology blog news universe. Live and direct from their shiny new Editor-in-Chief and Managing Editor chairs are hosts Tim Stevens and Darren Murph, joined by mobile vets Myriam and Vlad -- a quadfecta of power unmatched in pure nerd horsepower (or battery power, depending on what you're driving). Can you taste it? It kind of tastes like when you lick a battery. In a really good way. Hosts: Tim Stevens, Darren Murph Guests: Myriam Joire, Vlad Savov
Producer: Trent Wolbe Music: Sweet Home Alabama 00:00:58 - Android chief Andy Rubin tackles open source qualms, says Honeycomb isn't 'one size fits all' 00:00:00 - Sony's Howard Stringer confirms Honeycomb tablet in US by summer (update) 00:18:00 - GameStop details plans for Impulse and Spawn Labs, says it's 'becoming a technology company' 00:20:50 - GameStop snaps up Spawn Labs, Impulse game distribution platform 00:23:25 - Sony CEO casually mentions he's supplying cameras to Apple 00:25:48 - Next-gen iPod nano chassis hints at camera? 00:30:05 - iPod touch prototype with capacitive home button leaked? 00:32:45 - HP's keyboard-less webOS phone and Verizon Pre 3 leaked? 00:35:05 - Google's new cloud-based Android Music app leaks out 00:45:09 - Nikon D5100 and ME-1 external mic coming April 21st, we go hands-on (video) 00:47:50 - Nikon D5100 DSLR surfaces with 16.2 megapixel sensor, 1080p video recording 00:51:52 - Silverlight coming to Xbox, bringing WP7 games along with it? 00:52:25 - Xbox Development Kit arrives with 'significantly reduced price,' Sidecar attachment 00:55:25 - Razer Chimaera wireless Xbox 360 headset review 00:58:40 - Tesla Roadster 2.5 Sport review Hear the podcast
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Contact the podcast 1-888-ENGADGET or podcast (at) engadget (dot) com. Twitter: @tim_stevens @darrenmurph @tnkgrl @vladsavovThis posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now |
| BlackBerry Torch 2 gets an early hands-on Posted: 08 Apr 2011 08:41 AM PDT We'd already heard that the BlackBerry Torch 2 would basically be a Torch with some significantly bumped specs, and that's now been all but confirmed by BGR, which managed to spend a bit of time with the device itself. As you can see, it's nearly identical to the original Torch in terms of appearance, but BGR says the device's 1.2GHz processor could "light a fire" when paired with BlackBerry OS 6.1, and that its 640 x 480 display "looks absolutely great." As with the Bold Touch it got its hands on yesterday, BGR says the Torch 2 will be making its official debut at BlackBerry World next month, with a launch on AT&T to follow in July. Hit up the source link below for a few more hands-on shots. |
| Canon's XF305 and XF300 pro camcorders can now shoot in 3D... if you buy two of them Posted: 08 Apr 2011 08:19 AM PDT   Make no mistake: that whole 3D-everything trend is snaking its way into professional-grade products. Canon has issued a firmware update allowing its year-old XF305 and XF300 pro camcorders to record 3D HD video. There's a catch, though: you'll need two of these bad boys, which cost a princely $8,000 and $6,700, respectively. For those with a well-stocked studio, Canon's "3D Assist Feature" aims to take some of the grunt work out of setting up two cameras to record in 3D by optically aligning their lenses and calibrating their zoom settings. The company also beefed up the scan reverse feature so that you can flip the orientation of the video to horizontal, vertical or diagonal -- a strong likelihood if you're using a 3D mirror rig. Canon slipped in a few extra goodies as well, including the ability to turn off relay recording from one memory card to another, and to simultaneously record to two memory cards, should you be paranoid about data loss. So what are you waiting for? Download the update. And, you know, get yourself a second camera. Show full PR text Canon Enhances The XF305 and XF300 Professional Camcorders With New 3D Capabilities
New Firmware Enables 3D HD Video Capture Assist and a Host of New Features
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 7, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced significant enhancements to the Canon XF305 and XF300 Professional Camcorders, including the ability to configure two units for 3D HD video capture. Canon's new firmware upgrades the XF300-series camcorders to include Canon's 3D Assist Function that allows two units to be easily set up for 3D HD video, as well as an updated Scan Reverse function, Double Slot Recording for instantaneous backup, and the option to disable Relay Recording. Canon will be demonstrating a range of professional applications for the Canon XF305 and XF300, including 3D image recording, at the Company's booth # C4325, at the 2011 National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show in the Las Vegas Convention Center, April 11th-14th.
"Our professional imaging equipment continues to offer cutting-edge features and capabilities that professionals need in the field and helps open new doorways to endless possibilities for creative expression," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technology and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.
3D Shooting Capability
Canon's 3D Assist Function facilitates the setup of two XF305 or XF300 Professional Camcorders when used together to capture 3D HD video. The new firmware includes the ability to perform OIS Lens Shift to aid in optically aligning two XF305 or XF300 camcorders and a Focal Length Guide to display the zoom position of each camera in relation to each other and help calibrate zoom settings. This adjustment can be done through the menu system while the camcorders are mounted to a rig or tripod. Once aligned, the amount of the angle-of-view change is displayed after zoom adjustment, preventing camera misalignment and simplifying adjustment. This is similar to the 3D shooting functionality found in the Company's XF105 and XF100 model professional camcorders.
Scan Reverse
The new firmware updates the Scan Reverse functionality of XF300-series camcorders to allow for recorded images to be flipped on the horizontal axis, vertical axis, or both simultaneously to facilitate recording with 3D mirror rigs.
Double-Slot Recording
This new function allows the camcorders to record footage simultaneously to both card slots for instant backup of important footage and files. Ideal for use in production environments to ensure multiple copies are secured for each take.
Relay Recording On/Off
Relay Recording, an innovative feature where footage is seamlessly recorded to the second CF card as the first fills up, can now be turned off to prevent capture data from automatically being recorded to the second card. This allows the second card to be protected from recording and used only when designated or to allow the user to only copy or back up select takes to the card.
Professional Feature Set
The Company's XF300-series camcorders employ Canon's XF Codec, an MPEG-2 4:2:2 50Mbps codec for native 1920 x 1080 HD video recording onto affordable, universally available Compact Flash (CF) cards. Uniting video, audio and metadata into a single file, the Canon XF305 and XF300 use an MXF (Material eXchange Format) File Wrapper, a widely supported open-source format, to maximize compatibility with existing industry infrastructure and non-linear editing (NLE) systems.
The Canon XF305 and XF300 Professional Camcorders include a Genuine Canon 18x HD L-series lens, three Canon developed and designed native 1920 x 1080 CMOS image sensors, and Canon's own XF Codec that delivers the extreme color detail required for accurate chroma-keying, color-grading and compositing for digital filmmaking. In addition, Canon's XF305 model features industry-standard HD-SDI output, genlock, and SMPTE time code (in/out) terminals for multi-camera, broadcasting or 3D production.
Priced under $8,000 and $6,700 per model respectively, the Canon XF305 and XF300 Professional Camcorders are designed for multiple production applications including broadcast news, documentary and independent filmmaking and event videography. |
| Novation Twitch touchstrip DJ controller makes the scene at Musik Messe 2011 (video) Posted: 08 Apr 2011 07:47 AM PDT  We're not professional musicians by a long shot, but when we do get a chance to break away from the relentless torrent of cellphones and tablets, nothing quite hits the spot like a little music appreciation. Of course, when done Engadget-style this usually means a gadget of some sort -- and we'd be lying if we didn't say that Novation's newest didn't whet our appetites for some after-hours beatmatching. Twitch is essentially a full-figured DJ controller, but instead of some sort of round jog wheel (which the current reviewer has always found to be extremely counter-intuitive) the company added a touch strip, which can be used for everything from finding the beat to zooming in and out of the waveform display (after watching the video, it's hard to believe we've been beatmatching without pinch-to-zoom for this long). This bad boy also boasts a full compliment of controls for Serato, Traktor NI, and Ableton Live. You're probably interested in seeing how it performs in the real world, but unless you're in Frankfurt for Musik Messe, you're going to have to settle for the video after the break. Look for it in July for a street price in the $500 range. |
| Panasonic gives its in-flight entertainment system an Android makeover, adds 3D displays Posted: 08 Apr 2011 07:16 AM PDT Panasonic has been kicking around the idea of a tricked-out Android-based in-flight entertainment system for awhile, and now it's ready for airlines to start retrofitting their livery. The system, dubbed eX3, runs Android, relieving restless fliers with news, live television, games, and what the company calls on-board social networking, but that's mostly a nod to the Facebook app. Other amenities include broadband internet access and GSM service, touchscreen controllers, capacative screens, proximity sensors, and, in some cases, 3D displays. Not going to front -- we're stoked on the idea of tuning out on-board babies via multi-hour Angry Birds sessions, but we're seriously hoping the airlines ignore one of the system's marquee features: in-flight video conferencing. |
| Sony accelerates Memory Stick's rate of obsolescence to 50MBps Posted: 08 Apr 2011 06:49 AM PDT Only Sony -- the company behind the " Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity" streaming service -- would consider naming its latest flash memory card the "Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX." But once you get past its monumental moniker you'll notice that the 32GB (¥17,000 about $200), 16GB (¥9,000 or $106), and 8GB (¥5,000 / $59) MS-HXB series memory cards boast an impressive 50MB per second transfer rate as tested by Sony. That's a pretty decent jump past Sony's older MS-HXA series of cards and should help keep the few remaining Memory Stick-only devices happily bursting into a future dominated by Secure Digital. |
| The Awesome button is... Posted: 08 Apr 2011 06:14 AM PDT Ever struggled to find the perfect adjective to articulate your admiration for a given article of awesomeness? Matt Richardson over at Make felt exactly the same way, so he perfected himself an Awesome button, designed specifically to spit out synonyms for his favorite descriptive word. To accomplish the task, he had to gut a Staples "easy" button and arrange a Teensy USB microcontroller inside it, before making the resulting mini-thesaurus compatible with his computer. Don't worry, full instructions are contained in the video above. Just mash the play button. |
| Keepin' it real fake: the iPad Smart Cover done wrong (video) Posted: 08 Apr 2011 05:44 AM PDT Let's be honest, the only time you're likely to consider Apple's prices for own-brand peripherals reasonable is when someone else is paying for them. It's not unusual, therefore, for folks to look to complement their walled Apple garden with a few well selected accessories from the grey market. Such as this here Smart Cover knockoff, which saves you a whopping six bucks off the Apple price at only $33, comes with detachable (no user assistance required) hinge elements, and has a special pet-repelling odor as an added extra. Yes, it's pretty terrible and self-destructs the moment you look at it. And, naturally, it's available to watch on video right after the break.
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| 3DS outsold by PSP in Japan, gets dumped for a dating sim Posted: 08 Apr 2011 05:21 AM PDT When a new console launches you expect it to hit the ground with a big "thwomp" that knocks the competition aside. Nintendo's 3DS, however, has had something of a softer landing. It released in Japan on February 26th and had been positioned high and proud at the top of the sales charts. However, it's already been usurped by the humble PSP, which according to Media Create sold 58,075 units in the week of March 28th to April 3rd. The 3DS, meanwhile, sold 42,979. This is in large part thanks to PSP dating sim Amagami, an old PS2 game that's just been re-released for the portable. It seems nostalgia trumps 3D wizardry again, and with the PSP getting cheaper in Europe this week, the competition is even getting tougher. |
| Acer's Iconia Tab A500 soaks up the WiFi rays, hits shelves April 24th for $450 Posted: 08 Apr 2011 05:00 AM PDT Ladies and gentlemen, the days of spending $600 for an Android Honeycomb tablet are nearly done -- on April 24th, the Acer Iconia Tab A500 will wash that price away with waves of brushed aluminum. That's when the WiFi-only version of Acer's Android 3.0 tablet will hit Best Buy and online retail for $450 sans contract, but with the same basic raft of specs as the WiFi-only Motorola Xoom: a dual-core 1GHz Tegra 250 SOC, a 10.1-inch 1280 x 800 LCD screen, 1GB of RAM, 16GB of flash storage, a 5 megapixel camera around back and a 2 megapixel imager up front, HDMI-out, not to mention a pair of 3260mAh batteries that Acer claims are capable of eight full hours of life while playing HD video. Sure, it's a wee bit thicker and heavier, too, but if you're attracted to shiny things, look for our review in the coming weeks -- or wait until this summer to get one with AT&T. PR after the break. Update: As Acer mentioned in its press release, pre-orders for the device are beginning exclusively at Best Buy today, and you can now get your order in online. Show full PR text
Acer Iconia Tab A500 Tablet Super-Charges Mobile HD Entertainment, Connectivity
First Acer Tablet with Android 3.0 for US Market Now Available for Pre-Order at Best Buy; Provides Superior Mobile Entertainment, Connection to Internet, Games, Movies, Social Networks
SAN JOSE, Calif., April 8, 2011 – Acer America today debuts the Acer Iconia Tab A500 in the United States and announced that it is available for pre-order online exclusively from Best Buy. The Acer Iconia Tab A500 is the company's first 10.1-inch tablet running Android 3.0 (Honeycomb) in the new Acer Iconia family of tablets for North America.
The new Acer Iconia Tab A500 tablet enables customers to interact with and enjoy technology in ways that are both truly natural and exciting. The 10.1-inch multi-touch screen provides accurate finger-tip control for personal access to applications, games and entertainment. The tablet provides an enhanced level of performance with its NVIDIA Tegra 250 1GHz dual-core processor and integrated GeForce™ GPU that lets customers enjoy HD gaming, 1080p video and faster browsing, as well as running multiple applications and digital media playback at the same time.
Customers can take advantage of these capabilities with the new Android 3.0 (Honeycomb) operating system, which gives them the flexibility to customize their experience to suit their interests.
The Acer Iconia Tab A500 was built for usability on-the go. Its slim and modern aluminum design weighs only 1.69 pounds and measures only 0.52-inches thin. It also includes forward and rear-facing cameras for capturing videos and photos as well as video conferencing.
A Best Buy exclusive, the Acer Iconia Tab A500 with WiFi is now available for pre-order online at bestbuy.com and may be pre-ordered in stores beginning April 14. The Acer Iconia Tab A500 with WiFi will be available in stores and online beginning April 24. The Acer Iconia Tab A500 has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $449.99.
"Staying connected and entertained are firmly embedded as a part of our everyday lives – and the Acer Iconia Tab A500 does this and so much more in a performance-minded, sleek and stylish design," said Sumit Agnihotry, vice president of product marketing, Acer America. "This tablet absolutely delivers on the expectation that customers can be entertained, stay in touch with family, friends, colleagues and social networks, as well as keep up on the world around them in a way that is intuitive and fluid, and also incredibly enjoyable."
Best Buy's vice president of computing, Jason Bonfig, stated, "Tablets are paving the way for people to enjoy a whole new form factor in entertainment and connection. We're pleased to have Acer join our tablet selection and to offer our customers an opportunity to try this tablet out for themselves at any Best Buy store."
Extraordinary Mobile Entertainment and Fun; Two Great Games Included
Navigating through the interactive environment with the touch of a finger-tip is incredibly natural. The 10.1-inch capacitive touch-screen tablet delivers a remarkable degree of accuracy and responsiveness. The high-resolution 1280x800 TFT WXGA display is crisp and clear, and provides an 80-degree wide viewing angle to ensure an optimal viewing experience. The large 10.1-inch size is ideal for comfortably accessing and enjoying a number of applications – from movies and games to social networks and scrolling through photos in the photo book application.
Designed for HD entertainment, the high-color contrast 10.1-inch widescreen display allows customers to enjoy exhilarating HD 720p video in a 16:10 aspect ratio. Customers can also use the Acer Iconia Tab A500 as their media hub and share full 1080p Blu-ray-quality video via the built-in HDMI port with other devices, such as a high-definition big screen TV or monitor. Dolby Mobile technology completes the entertainment experience with heightened audio.
One of the tablet's most impressive features is its ability to run and play premium HD arcade games and complex online games. The 10-point touch display and six-axis motion sensing gyro meter control guarantees an entertainment experience on par with the best game consoles. Plus, the Acer Iconia Tab A500 comes with two full versions of leading games already on it. "Need for Speed: Shift" gives customers a sense of exhilarating speed and power as they "steer" the ultra-responsive tablet to maneuver through courses with dynamic HD graphics. In "Let's Golf," customers choose their character and swing for a hole in one on a variety of courses from around the word in vibrant color.
Taking along hundreds of books and magazines is easy with the Acer Iconia Tab A500. The tablet supports eReading and comes pre-installed with Acer LumiRead and Google Books eReading apps for enjoying eBooks, while Zinio is pre-installed for reading full-color digital magazines.
The technology in the Acer Iconia Tab A500 delivers a thrilling level of performance. It features a dual-core NVIDIA Tegra 250 Cortex A9 1GHz processor, supported by the ultra-low power GeForce graphics and 1GB of RAM for blazing mobile performance. It also supports flash.
The new tablet comes with an integrated 16GB of flash storage for programs and apps to give customers incredibly fast access while limiting weight and noise. The platform can support a larger storage capacity of 32GB, which is planned for future models. The Micro-SD card reader supports up to 32GB Micro-SD cards, so customers can access and download their own digital content, including videos, movies and eBooks.
The Acer Iconia Tab A500 can be used in a range of environments thanks to its ambient light sensor. The integrated accelerometer provides auto-rotation between portrait and landscape modes for viewing movies, websites, games and more.
Staying Connected and On-the-Go
Today's customers are connecting with their social networks in a real-time way that brings more meaning and convenience to their lives. The Acer Iconia Tab A500 connects to Wi-Fi networks with reliable Acer InviLink Nplify 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi CERTIFIED wireless technology at home and on the go for updating social network apps, Twitter feeds and accessing the Internet. Customers can also set up multiple email addresses in the tablet and even open and view Microsoft Office documents using the trial version of the "Docs to Go" app to boost their productivity.
The two webcams boost customers' ability to stay in touch. The 5MP rear-facing camera has a flash and is auto-focusing, so it captures excellent video and images. The 2MP fixed-focused front-facing webcam is ideal for video conferencing and recording HD video and comments for YouTube and Facebook. Customers can utilize the built-in GPS with various apps to enjoy navigation and location-searches while traveling and driving. Plus, the integrated Bluetooth allows consumers to connect the tablet to a variety of other devices, such as headsets and printers.
Customers will enjoy extra-long uptime with their Acer Iconia Tab A500. The system's two 3260 mAh Li-polymer batteries provide up to eight hours of playback for casual games, eight hours of HD video playback and 10 hours of WiFi Internet browsing.
Superior Mobile Browsing Experience with Android 3.0
The advances in Android 3.0 (Honeycomb) build on the leading-edge performance in the Acer Iconia Tab A500 to deliver a mobile experience unlike anything customers have experienced to date. Specifically optimized for a tablet environment, Android 3.0 runs on the Acer Iconia Tab A500 to deliver superb browsing with an array of features that make online time rewarding and productive.
Plus, customers can get even more out of their Acer Iconia Tab A500 by customizing it with Android apps of their choice from the Android Market and other Android-based app sites.
Innovative Design Boosts Usability
The Acer Iconia Tab A500 will be used in a very personal way, so it was designed with great attention to detail. Customers will enjoy using it as a primary connection to their world from wherever they take it. The design boasts an Alpine Silver brushed metal aluminum chassis that is cool to the touch and comfortable to hold. The design's upscale look and feel features a high-gloss finish decorated with engraved patterns that create a subtle sophistication.
The Acer Iconia Tab A500 is incredibly easy to use and enjoy. It easily fits in a purse, briefcase or book bag. It measures 10.24(w) x 6.97(d) x 0.52(h)-inches and weighs only 1.69 pounds.
Acer offers several options for customers to further personalize their Acer Iconia Tab A500. They are:
· The full-sized dedicated keyboard connects to the tablet via Bluetooth to boost productivity. MSRP is $69.99.
· The dock with IR remote securely holds the Acer Iconia Tab A500 into a secure position with two tilt angles. The dock charges the unit and includes a connection for an external speaker or headphone. MSRP is $79.99.
· The sleek protective case guards the tablet without adding weight or bulk. It allows access to the connectors and ports, while also propping it up in two positions while on a desk or nightstand. MSRP is $39.99.
· The Americas power adapter set comes with the four connectors used in North, Central and South America as well as the UK and Europe. MSRP is $29.99.
clear.fi for Digital Media Sharing
Acer clear.fi is installed on the Acer Iconia Tab A500 to connect it with any other DLNA-compliant device to quickly and easily share digital media. Clear.fi automatically connects all Acer devices on a network (smartphones, notebooks, desktops, HD media players and storage devices) and then gathers and organizes media files by type (video, music, photo, pre-recorded TV). |
| ASUS releases Eee Pad Transformer source code, physical bits to come later Posted: 08 Apr 2011 04:24 AM PDT We're still sitting here playing with our Decepticon and Autobot toys, Jetfire and Starscream continuing their battle for airborne supremacy. It's how we entertain ourselves whilst waiting for ASUS to release its Transformer tablet on the world, but now we can at least get our hands on what makes it tick. The source code for that 10.1-inch tablet with its IPS screen and Honeycomb flavor has just been lobbed up onto the company's site and, with just a few clicks, you can continue its trajectory right onto your storage device of choice -- though you'll need to run it through an unzipper before it can really have any impact. What you do with it after that is up to you, but you're going to have to wait a bit longer before you'll have anywhere to deploy the results of the included makefile. |
| Sony Ericsson Xperia Neo delayed to Q3, Arc and Play facing limited supply due to Japanese quake Posted: 08 Apr 2011 03:49 AM PDT There hasn't been much good news coming out of Japan lately and this sadly keeps up with the unhappy trend. Sony Ericsson has officially bumped the broad launch (it's already available in limited quantities) of its Xperia Neo handset to at least July, explaining the delay as the result of "supply chain disruptions." Additionally, the Xperia Arc and Play devices, two other members of the company's new Android Gingerbread family, will be available in smaller volume than expected, at least for the near term. We guess that might go some way to explaining why the Xperia Play failed to reach some UK carriers in time for its April 1st launch date. Skip past the break for a statement from Sony Ericsson, who promises to be more explicit about the situation when it delivers its latest quarterly results on April 19th. As Sony Ericsson continues to assess the impact of the situation in Japan on its business, we have communicated to our operator customers and distributors that some volume of Xperia arc, Xperia PLAY and Xperia neo phones has been affected. Xperia neo has already been introduced to the marketplace in limited quantities. However, due to supply chain disruptions resulting from the situation in Japan, we have shifted the timing of Xperianeo's broader launch and it is now planned for early Q3.
We will address this topic at the time of our Q1 financial results announcement call that is scheduled for April 19, 2011. |
| Motorola's SocialTV app will turn your Xoom or Atrix into a communicative couch companion Posted: 08 Apr 2011 03:26 AM PDT Whether you look at stats or your own limitless experience, you know very well that humanity spends too much time staring at tubes, screens, and other unnatural visualizers. Motorola isn't really here to fix that ailment, but at least it's converging the uses of some of those device classes with its introduction of a SocialTV Companion Service. Designed to turn your smartphone, tablet or laptop into a, you guessed it, TV companion device, this new software serves up social networking, complimentary content, real-time chat, TV show ratings, and interactive (as opposed to what, non-interactive?) games. Basically, since you spend your TV-watching time idly browsing away on your Xoom anyway, why not fuse the two things together and "generate some incremental revenue" for your service provider in the process? We presume the new SocialTV stuff will be rolled out in app form, Moto doesn't dish up those details or give us a launch date. If only we had an app to tell us when to expect new apps to arrive. Show full PR text Motorola Mobility Blends Community and Entertainment with Launch of SocialTV Companion Service for Tablets and Mobile Devices
SocialTV Companion Service extends Motorola Medios multi-screen video service management portfolio
April 07, 2011
HORSHAM, Pa.– April 7, 2011 – Motorola Mobility Inc. (NYSE: MMI) today announced the launch of its SocialTV Companion Service, targeted at service providers looking to deliver multi-screen experiences to their customers.
Motorola's new SocialTV Companion Service is part of the Motorola Medios multi-screen video service management portfolio. SocialTV helps service providers differentiate their offering and generate incremental revenue by leveraging social networking, loyalty programs, advertising and product merchandising via companion devices such as tablets, smartphones and laptops. When consumers are viewing video content on their primary TV screen, they will in tandem be able to share comments and interact real-time with friends and family via social networks using the Motorola SocialTV Companion Service. In addition, they will be able to access content, applications or merchandise related to the program they're watching. Motorola Mobility's 2010 Media Engagement Barometer showed that nearly 40% of Americans would prefer a TV viewing experience that offered access to value-add services such as these.
"Consumers are increasingly using companion devices to augment their entertainment experience," said John Burke, senior vice-president and general manager, Converged Experiences, Motorola Mobility. "Our SocialTV Companion Service is leveraging the convergence of companion devices, community and entertainment to create a more enjoyable and personalized experience for the consumer, while giving the service provider the ability to monetize that experience."
Motorola's SocialTV Companion Service includes interactive games and social experiences enabling viewers to express themselves and interact real-time with their virtual community of friends also watching the TV show. Real-time chat and TV show ratings, including live feeds to the companion device from leading social networking platforms, are also included. Adding further value and differentiation, the SocialTV Companion Service enables monetization opportunities thru show-related product merchandising, on-screen advertising placement and an integrated social loyalty rewards program with enterprise-class analytics and reporting capabilities. Optional features include show-specific games, quizzes and viewer voting polls.
Motorola's SocialTV Companion Service utilizes component modules from LoyalizeTM, including real-time social experiences and their real-time participation platform, analytics and rewards administration components. |
| 3LiveShop woos you into phone contracts by touching your screen from the other side (video) Posted: 08 Apr 2011 02:44 AM PDT Feeling lonely? Got some Swedish kronor to burn? Now you can kill two birds with one stone thanks to Three's Scandinavian arm. Hold up, we're not talking about online dating here; but you could certainly start by buying a phone from 3LiveShop, which lets you interact virtually face to face with a human sales rep. Better yet, these folks are equipped with eccentric multitouch workstations (pictured after the break) to let them drag phones and spec sheets around your screen. We had a go on this service just now and apart from a couple of hiccups later on, our Hong Kong-to-Sweden call was surprisingly fluid and fun. Sadly, we didn't get around to filming our intimate conversation with Adam here, but you can watch a promotion video by B-Reel -- the folks behind the touchscreen's Flash interface -- after the break to see how it works. [Thanks, Johan] |
| Nokia sucks at Photoshop Posted: 08 Apr 2011 01:57 AM PDT Oh man, is this the new version of Symbian? If so, it looks magical. [Thanks, Jaris] |
| Intel licensing Kno hardware for partners with manufacturing knohow Posted: 08 Apr 2011 01:24 AM PDT A month or so ago, we reported that Kno was looking for a way out of the tablet hardware business and intended to transition itself into a purely software-centric operation. Well, now Bloomberg and All Things D tell us that a deal has been worked out to make that desire a reality. A $30 million investment round led by Intel Capital has reportedly been arranged, whose stipulations include granting Intel a license to the hardware designs and blueprints of the original dual-screen tablet. Chipzilla's share of the new buy-in is estimated at around $20 million, though before you start fantasizing about what the company's financial and R&D muscle could do for the platform, we should note that it apparently doesn't intend to build any tablets of its own. The goal is simply to obtain the knohow and share it with its OEM partners (while inevitably tying that gesture of goodwill to more chip orders). As to Kno itself, it'll try to exploit the new cash in its continued efforts to become an educational software delivery platform benefiting from its many partnerships with academic institutions. Knowledge is power, after all. Update: Not that there was much doubt, but this deal is now completely official. Press release is after the break. Show full PR text Intel Capital, Advance Publications, Andreessen Horowitz, First Round Capital, FLOODGATE and SV Angels Invest $30 Million In Kno
Intel and Kno to Further Innovation in Education Tablet Market
Santa Clara, CA – April 8, 2011 – Kno, Inc., a leading education software company, announced today that it has closed $30 million in Series C financing led by new investor Intel Capital that contributed $20 million. Advance Publications Inc. also participated as a new investor. All of Kno's existing institutional investors participated in the round, including Andreessen Horowitz, First Round Capital, FLOODGATE and SV Angels. This latest round of funding will help Kno continue to develop its innovative educational software solution for multiple platforms and devices, including Intel Architecture.
As part of the agreement, Intel and Kno will join forces to advance the use of tablet computers designed to meet the needs of interactive and 1:1 student learning environments. The two companies will explore opportunities to make Kno's touch-based applications available for Intel's educational platforms.
"We are excited to have the opportunity to continue building our solutions in broader education markets and onto the innovative Intel-based platforms," said Osman Rashid, CEO and Co-Founder, Kno, Inc. "We look forward to working together with the ultimate goal of making learning engaging, collaborative and fun for students."
"Kno's unique end-to-end software and their experience with content publishers aligns very well with Intel's approach of delivering a holistic solution for education that comprises of hardware, software, digital content and services," said Arvind Sodhani, president of Intel Capital and Intel executive vice president. "We plan to work with Kno and continue to bring a wide range of innovative platform choices to students worldwide."
About Kno
Kno, Inc. is an education software company on a mission to make learning engaging, effective, and social for students. Osman Rashid, the co-founder of Chegg, and Babur Habib, a consumer electronics veteran, founded Kno, Inc. in May 2009. The company has received funding from Advance Publications, Andreessen Horowitz, First Round Capital, FLOODGATE, Intel Capital, Ron Conway, Silicon Valley Bank, SV Angels and TriplePoint Capital and is based in Santa Clara, California. For more information go to www.kno.com, or follow Kno at facebook.com/GoodtoKno and http://twitter.com/GoodtoKNO.
About Intel Capital
Intel Capital, Intel's global investment organization, makes equity investments in innovative technology start-ups and companies worldwide. Intel Capital invests in a broad range of companies offering hardware, software, and services targeting enterprise, home, mobility, health, consumer Internet, semiconductor manufacturing and cleantech. Since 1991, Intel Capital has invested more than US$9.8 billion in over 1,100 companies in 48 countries. In that timeframe, 189 portfolio companies have gone public on various exchanges around the world and 258 were acquired or participated in a merger. In 2010, Intel Capital invested US$327 million in 119 investments with approximately 44 percent of funds invested outside the U.S. and Canada. For more information on Intel Capital and its differentiated advantages, visit www.intelcapital.com. |
| PSP starts streaming Music Unlimited on April 14th Posted: 08 Apr 2011 12:40 AM PDT What started as loose-lipped tattle is now official: the PSP will get a taste of Sony's Music Unlimited streaming music service starting on April 14th. The service, tortuously entitled "Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity" by Sony, requires a PlayStation Network ID to access all that digital audio. Once setup, Sony promises a "synchronized music experience" across your PSP, PS3, PC, and other network-enabled Sony devices like Bravia TVs and Blu-ray players -- a claim backed by a cloud-based catalog of some seven million tracks supported by a "music sync" functionality that will automatically organize your Music Unlimited library after perusing the local files and playlists found in your existing media player (yes, iTunes is supported). Click through the break for the full press release and a good video overview of the service while you ponder the $3.99 basic and $9.99 premium monthly service fees.
Show full PR text "Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity™" Arrives on the PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable)
FOSTER CITY, Calif., April 7, 2011 –SonyNetwork Entertainment today announced that beginning April 14, PlayStation®Portable (PSP™) owners with PlayStation®Network (PSN) IDs will be able to access "Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity™," a new, cloud-based, digital music service which lets music lovers listen to millions of songs and easily discover new music from major and independent labels from around theworld*. PSP owners can also enjoy a common and synchronized music experience on their PlayStation® 3 computer entertainment systems as well as PCs and other network-enabled Sony devices without the need to manage or transfer music files.
Music Unlimited debuted in the U.K. and Ireland in December 2010 and became available in France, Germany, Italy and Spain in January 2011, then later launched in the United States, Australia and New Zealand in February 2011, representing one of the fastest global rollouts ever seen for a digital music service.
Music Unlimited service gives users the music they want,when they want it. It offers instant streaming access to a catalogue of over seven million songs on any PC or laptop, as well as a variety of Sony devices, including Sony's 2010 and 2011 models of network-enabled BRAVIA® TVs, Blu-Ray Disc™ players, Blu-Ray Disc Home Theatre systems, as well as PlayStation®3, VAIO® laptops, and now the PlayStation®Portable. It will also become available on a wider range of Sony's portable devices, Android-based mobile devices, and other portable devices.
By studying users' listening habits and incorporating their preferences, "Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity" delivers dozens of personalized music channels uniquely tailored to their tastes, commercial-free and uninterrupted, with unlimited skips. Consumers can try the Premium service free for 30-days. Go to www.qmusic.com for more information.
*Currently accessible on PSP handheld entertainment systems in WiFi network environments |
| Manual for Alienware M11x with Sandy Bridge confirms NVIDIA GT540M graphics Posted: 08 Apr 2011 12:08 AM PDT If the previous Alienware M11x R3 spec leak got you all giddy, then we have some good news for you: according to a manual dug up by one of our eagle-eyed readers, it appears that this year's M11x refresh will indeed be coming with second-gen Core i5 ULV and Core i7 ULV options, along with a faster DDR3 bus (1333MHz instead of 800MHz), a higher-res webcam (2MP instead of 1.3MP), an HD TrueLife LCD, and optional 3G / 4G mobile broadband. But of course, the real meat on this laptop is its graphics card, which turns out to be an NVIDIA GeForce GT540M with either 1Gb or 2GB of dedicated memory -- not bad for a laptop of this size. Unsurprisingly, no dates or prices are mentioned here, but given the early start of inventory clearance, it shouldn't be long before Round Rock reveals all. [Thanks, Matt] |
| Doom 2 gets ported to PocketBook 360 Plus e-reader (video) Posted: 07 Apr 2011 11:07 PM PDT Porting Doom to unexpected devices may be one of the oldest tricks in the game-porting book, but seeing it (or Doom 2, no less) run in a somewhat playable fashion on an e-reader is still a feat worth noting. That was recently done on the as yet unreleased PocketBook 360 Plus e-reader, apparently in an effort to demonstrate its new Pearl E Ink display and Freescale processor. Head on past the break to check out the results for yourself -- and, no, Doom 2 unfortunately won't actually be included with the e-reader. [Thanks, Zach]
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| NASA's Curiosity Mars Rover stars in its very own photoshoot Posted: 07 Apr 2011 09:52 PM PDT NASA's already given us a glimpse at its Mars rover, courtesy of a USTREAM broadcast a few months back, but the crew over at BoingBoing has taken one small step for mankind by going even further in-depth with Curiosity before it launches in November. One lucky photographer was granted permission into the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, and the fruits of his bunny-suited labor showcase the nooks and crannies of NASA's latest and greatest. We're still kind of bummed that the rover won't be equipped with a zoom 3D camera as originally planned, but we've got a hunch James Cameron's taking it even harder. Be sure to hit the source link for a whole smattering of more angles, if intergalactic spacecrafts are your thing. |
| T-Mobile G2x shows up on eBay with $799 price tag, tests your bartering skills (update: sold!) Posted: 07 Apr 2011 08:44 PM PDT We already knew that T-Mobile's dual-core G2x won't be arriving for another week, but it looks like some cheeky monkey managed to nab one early and promptly put it up on eBay. While the seller hasn't posted photos of the actual handset, all the signs suggest that at least this sealed box is legit, especially the label on the back. If you're willing to take the risk, then this Tegra 2 Froyo Android could be yours early for a cool $799, or maybe a bit less if you could work your magic on that "Make Offer" button. Update: And it's gone. Looks like someone really wanted this phone. |
| Ask Engadget: best wireless keyboard with built-in trackpad? Posted: 07 Apr 2011 07:33 PM PDT We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Calvin, who's presumably looking for the ultimate HTPC keyboard for use in his increasingly swank living roon. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. I'm an analyst and a lot of what I do requires me to quickly switch back and forth between using my keyboard and mouse. I've learned a lot of keyboard shortcuts and have even built macros to alleviate the need for so much switching, but alas, it's not enough. I've started looking for a wireless keyboard that has a built-in touchpad -- that way, my fingers are just a few inches away being able to manipulate the on-screen pointer at any given moment. I need one that has a ten-key pad and and dedicated F-keys. Is there anyone out there that has some experience with something like this and that has found one that actually works well? Please help! Two in one. We get it. If you do as well, drop your suggestion(s) in comments below. |
| Dell Panerai convertible tablet leaks at FCC, could be part of Inspiron Duo family? Posted: 07 Apr 2011 07:02 PM PDT Since the very first day we saw the Dell Inspiron Duo's crazy swiveling hinge in action, we knew we wanted a laptop that swung that way -- but the Inspiron Duo itself turned out to be a sluggish netvertible with poor battery life. Well, it looks like Dell may be looking for a second chance, because a "Dell Panerai" just hit the FCC, which looks like might have sprung from the same minds who dreamt up the original's sexy frame. Believe it or not, we can thank Intel for revealing this Dell P12F and Canada for pointing out its convertible nature, because of a little-known test specifically designed for transforming tablets like these -- our northern neighbors require that hybrid laptop / tablet computers get checked for face-melting radioactivity if they have antennas built into the display, and that's just what happened to the dual-band Intel 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi radio inside this machine. Oh, and judging by our calculations (based on the size of that orange label), the unit could sport a 15-inch screen. Sweet. |
| Facebook's Open Compute Project shares plans for energy-efficient data center Posted: 07 Apr 2011 06:37 PM PDT We know, you've seen an awful lot of Zuckerberg and crew here lately, and the Facebook news just keeps rolling in. This time the social networking giant is doing some sharing of a different sort by offering public access to the specifications and best practices behind its new, more efficient data center in Prineville, Oregon. According to the company, the center, built in collaboration with AMD, Dell, HP, and Intel, has boosted energy efficiency by 38 percent while lowering cost by 24 percent. The information now available through the Open Compute Project includes technical specs and mechanical CAD files for everything from servers to building design. Basically, if you want to erect your own multi-million dollar Facebook-style data center, you've got the go ahead. Full PR after the break. Show full PR text Facebook Launches Open Compute Project to Share Custom-Engineered, Highly Efficient Server and Data Center Technology With the World
PALO ALTO, Calif., April 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Seeking to transform the energy efficiency of global data centers, Facebook today launched the Open Compute Project, an initiative to share the custom-engineered technology in its first dedicated data center in Prineville, Oregon. This advanced technology delivered a 38 percent increase in energy efficiency at 24 percent lower cost for Facebook, and the specifications and best practices behind those gains will now be available to companies across the industry.
"Facebook and our development partners have invested tens of millions of dollars over the past two years to build upon industry specifications to create the most efficient computing infrastructure possible," said Jonathan Heiliger, vice president of technical operations at Facebook. "These advancements are good for Facebook, but we think they could benefit all companies. Today we're launching the Open Compute Project, a user-led forum, to share our designs and collaborate with anyone interested in highly efficient server and data center designs. We think it's time to demystify the biggest capital expense of an online business -- the infrastructure."
Inspired by the success of open source software, Facebook is publishing technical specifications and mechanical CAD files for the Prineville data center's servers, power supplies, server racks, battery backup systems and building design. This technology enabled the data center to achieve an initial power usage effectiveness (PUE) ratio of 1.07, compared with 1.5 for our existing facilities, which fall into the "best practice" category as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency*. Established by the Green Grid in 2007, PUE is an indicator of data center energy efficiency, and the lower the number, the better.
Facebook is releasing these designs as open hardware, aiming to encourage industry-wide collaboration around best practices for data center and server technology.
Advanced Micro Devices, Dell, HP and Intel are among the companies that co-developed technology with Facebook. In addition, Dell's Data Center Solutions business will design and build servers based on the Open Compute Project specification. Synnex Corporation will also serve as a vendor for Open Compute Project servers, offering fully integrated and tested solutions based on customers' specifications.
For Facebook's data center in Prineville, Open Compute Project hardware delivered:
Energy savings-The data center uses 38 percent less energy to do the same work as Facebook's exiting facilities. If a quarter of the data center capacity in the U.S. were built on Open Compute Project specifications, it would save enough energy to power more than 160,000 homes.
Cost savings-In addition to the energy savings, Open Compute Project hardware means data center infrastructure costs 24 percent less to build out than Facebook's existing data centers.
Materials savings-Servers use a vanity-free design with no paint, logos, stickers, or front panel – and are free of all non-essential parts. This saves more than 6 pounds of materials per server. In a typical data center**, this would save more than 120 tons of material from being manufactured, transported, and, ultimately, discarded.
Facebook is publishing specifications and mechanical designs for Open Compute Project hardware, including motherboards, power supply, server chassis, and server and battery cabinets. In addition, Facebook is making available its data center electrical and mechanical construction specifications. |
| Nu-Screen HD polishes your screen, doesn't moisturize your lips Posted: 07 Apr 2011 06:07 PM PDT  If you've ever been concerned about fingerprint smudges compromising your smartphone's password, this might just be a viable solution. Nu-Screen, a company little known around these parts, has launched the Nu-Screen HD polish stick which promises to leave a "slippery smooth, non-greasy surface" on your screen. How certain are we that smearing this mystery substance on your device will prevent smudges? Well, let's just say we'd rather pat some baby powder onto our hands. But hey, if you're willing to give this a go, hit up the source link to purchase the $26 jank stick -- just make sure not to confuse this with your cherry ChapStick. |
| HTC Droid Incredible 2 struts its stuff in leaked press shots? (Updated) Posted: 07 Apr 2011 05:32 PM PDT If you had any doubts about HTC's Incredible S making it to our shores, they're probably dissipating as we speak -- not only has the phone obtained Verizon's shiny red checkmark, it's now got the robotic eye of Sauron staring at us with ferocious intensity. PocketNow obtained these pictures of the likely Droid Incredible 2 without naming so much as an anonymous source, and we wouldn't be surprised if it's Verizon's way of reminding us that the handset is rapidly on its way to market. You'll find two more pictures at our source link. Update: Android Central got hold of some new shots of the actual phone itself, which shows off its model number ADR6350 and firmware 2.2.1. Thanks, Bla1ze. |
| White Nexus S with AT&T 3G bands hands-on! (video) Posted: 07 Apr 2011 04:34 PM PDT Well, what do we have here? Sure enough, it's that coveted white Nexus S with AT&T-compatible 3G that we mentioned yesterday, and we just got our dirty little paws on it thanks to a friendly tipster. This particular handset was purchased from Negri Electronics, and it's both unlocked and running Android 2.3.3 (Gingerbread), the version that just barely started rolling out to existing AWS Nexus S units in February. As you can see, it's pretty much identical to the current model, except of course for that white tuxedo and 850 / 1900MHz-friendly 3G radio. Feast your eyes upon Google and Samsung's latest prodigy in our gallery below, and hit the break for our hands-on video. [Thanks, Steve] |
| Pandora mobile app found to be sending birth date, gender and location information to ad servers Posted: 07 Apr 2011 04:02 PM PDT  We still haven't heard much more about that Federal Grand Jury investigation into Pandora and other mobile apps over privacy concerns, but an independent security firm has now gone ahead and taken matters into its own hands. According to an analysis done by the folks at Veracode, Pandora does indeed seem to be sharing more information about you then it lets on. More specifically, they found that the Android app (they haven't yet gotten around to the iOS version) "appears" to be sending information about users' birth date, gender, Android ID and GPS location to various advertising companies -- bits of information that the firm notes could be combined to determine who someone is, what they do for a living, and even who they associate with. For its part, Pandora is simply declining to to comment at the moment, and we're guessing that's unlikely to change anytime soon given the aforementioned investigation. Hit up the source link below for Veracode's complete findings. |
| FCC mandates data roaming after 3-2 vote, AT&T and Verizon aren't too happy about it Posted: 07 Apr 2011 03:28 PM PDT  Good news for small cellular carriers, and bad news for big ones today -- the Federal Communications Commission has decided to mandate data roaming by a 3-2 vote. Simply put, major carriers like AT&T and Verizon will be required to let you check your email and perform VoIP calls over their federally-licensed airwaves even if you're actually paying a regional carrier for your cellular coverage instead -- just as they've been required to do for voice and messaging since 2007. As you can imagine, Big Red and Ma Bell aren't exactly jumping for joy at the news, with both threatening to slow expansion into niche markets if they'll be forced to share their infrastructure. The victorious members of the FCC claim that this doesn't constitute common carriage because the big boys still get to negotiate "commercially reasonable" rates. Considering that two dissenting commissioners say that it is, indeed, common carriage, though, and thus beyond the powers granted to the FCC, we imagine we haven't heard the last of this debate. What happened to simply "incenting" the carriers to come to an agreement? Find statements from most every concerned party at the links below. |
| MyVoice app for iOS and Android enables the mute to talk (video) Posted: 07 Apr 2011 02:59 PM PDT Talking is something most of us take for granted, but a new app called MyVoice -- currently available for iOS and coming soon to Android -- is attempting to give the ability back to those who aren't as fortunate. Developed by a group of University of Toronto students after being approached by a man who had a stroke, the location-based app allows users to "speak" pre-programmed text macros using text-to-speech. You can't add new phrases from within the app just yet, though for now there's an online portal that also allows relatives to configure strings and organize them into "places" for the ultimate user. We checked out the app and it seems to work as advertised -- there's a pretty extensive word pack that comes with it. You can score the free download at the more coverage link below, and we've got a video demo after the break. |
| The Engadget Podcast, live at 5.30PM ET! Posted: 07 Apr 2011 02:17 PM PDT It's time. And by "time," we mean "time to get the gears of the Engadget Podcast churning once again." Your hosts for tonight's festivities are Engadget's freshly inaugurated new Editor-in-Chief, Tim Stevens, and his right-hand man, Darren Murph. For one night only (or maybe every night for the rest of eternity), they'll also be joined by the Mobile Podcast crew, who'll help them steer a course through the weird and wacky waters of consumer electronics news from the past few days. Won't you, dear reader, transform thyself into a listener and indulge us with an audience after the break? Something tells us you'll be glad you did. P.S. - If you're on the move but don't want to miss out on the live banter, Ustream has mobile clients for Android, iOS and Windows Phone. Update: That's a wrap! We'll have it up tomorrow if you missed it!
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| Oscium's iMSO-104 turns iPad, iPhone into mixed signal oscilloscopes Posted: 07 Apr 2011 02:09 PM PDT We've seen oscilloscopes repurposed as clocks and MAME machines, but we hardly ever see the pendulum swing in the opposite direction. The iMSO-104, however, actually turns your iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch into an oscilloscope display. Using a Cypress Semiconductor system on a chip, the iMSO-104 touts a 5MHz bandwidth and as much as 12 megasamples per second, and connects to your device by way of the dock connector -- according to its maker, it's also the world's smallest and most portable oscilloscope. That's all well and good, but what we really want to know is, does it support Tennis for Two? The iMSO-104 is now available for pre-order for $300, but if you're itching to see the thing in action, you can download the corresponding app today and give it a test drive. Full PR after the break. Show full PR text Oscium's New iMSO-104 Oscilloscope Powered By Cypress's PSoC® 3 Device Turns iPod touch, iPhone and iPad into Easy-to-Use Mixed Signal Scopes
PSoC 3 Handles Apple's Proprietary Interface For iOS Devices While Processing Incoming Analog and Digital Signals for Intuitive Scope System That's Both Affordable and Portable
SAN JOSE, Calif., April 6, 2011 – Cypress Semiconductor Corp. (Nasdaq: CY) today announced that Oscium has selected the PSoC® 3 programmable system-on-chip for its revolutionary new iMSO-104 mixed signal oscilloscope for iPod touch, iPhone and iPad. The PSoC 3 device in the iMSO-104 seamlessly manages the two-way communication between the oscilloscope and any iOS device via Apple's proprietary dock connector, and also processes the incoming analog and digital signals.
The iMSO-104 from Oscium is the first mixed-signal oscilloscope that leverages Apple's ubiquitous iOS devices. It is the smallest, most portable scope in the world, making it the ideal solution for hobbyists and students, as well as field sales and application engineers. It boasts a 5 MHz bandwidth and up to 12 MSPS (megasamples per second) sample rate, while simultaneously analyzing up to one analog and four digital signals. In conjunction with the iMSO app (available for download from the Apple App Store) and Apple's intuitive multitouch user interfaces, brilliant displays, and computation power, the iMSO-104 delivers the easiest, most intuitive scope solution on the market. The iMSO-104 sells for US$279.99. More information is available at www.oscium.com.
Oscium engineers were able to quickly and easily interface to iOS devices using Cypress's CY8CKIT-023 PSoC Expansion Board Kit For iPhone & iPod Accessories – a plug-in board to Cypress's CY8CKIT-001 PSoC Development Kit. The kit streamlines design of innovative mobile accessories using the flexible PSoC programmable system-on-chip architecture. It leverages Apple's iOS operating system and its corresponding SDK (Software Development Kit) to provide a two-way communication interface between apps and connected accessories. Details on the new kit and a video demonstration are available at www.cypress.com/go/cy8ckit-023, and for more information on Apple's (MFi) Made for iPod touch, iPhone and iPad program, visit http://developer.apple.com/mfi.
"Our engineers selected the PSoC 3 platform because it delivers the perfect combination of low-power consumption, processing power, and flexible communications interfaces," said Bryan Lee, President of Oscium. "Our focus is on making test equipment more intuitive and easier to use. We call it innovation for inventors. PSoC 3 helps us deliver on that promise."
"We're very pleased to see PSoC 3 adding value to this innovative yet handy product, which taps into Apple's massive iOS installed base," said Leon Tan, marketing manager for Cypress's MFi and mobile accessories solutions. "Oscium is a great example of how Apple's iOS and MFi developer programs open up a whole new realm of opportunities for app developers and accessory manufacturers. This product also showcases the many advantages that make PSoC the perfect solution for designers of iOS-based 'app-cessory' products." |
| Time Warner Cable takes Viacom to court over its TWCable TV iPad app; Viacom responds Posted: 07 Apr 2011 01:46 PM PDT While there's been a lot of talk about whether or not Time Warner has the right to include feeds of cable channels it carries in the new TWCable TV app, besides the company's voluntary removal of several networks there's been very little action until now. Time Warner Cable announced this afternoon it has filed a request in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York for a declaratory judgement regarding Viacom's cable networks. Time Warner continues to maintain its carriage agreements give it the right to allow subscribers access on any screen in their home, not just the TV and is apparently ready to prove that in court -- or at least drive Viacom, Discovery, Fox and other complaining networks towards more favorable negotiations. The app added seven more channels earlier today, while we wait for Viacom's side of the story you can check out the press release after the break or Time Warner's official blog to understand its stance in full. Update: Viacom has responded, saying Time Warner "blatantly grabbed the rights that their competitors have negotiated in good faith to obtain" forcing it to file a lawsuit of its own. The gloves are officially off -- check the full text after the break, or a PDF of Viacom's complaint linked below. Show full PR text Time Warner Cable Seeks Declaratory Judgment on Rights for iPad™ Use Within the Home
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Time Warner Cable (NYSE: TWC) today announced that it has filed a request for declaratory judgment relating to Viacom cable networks. The request asks the court to rule that Time Warner Cable's rights under its carriage agreement allows it to deliver the programming of this company over its cable systems for viewing on devices of its video customers' choosing, including iPads, in their homes. The case was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Marc Lawrence-Apfelbaum, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Time Warner Cable said, "We have steadfastly maintained that we have the rights to allow our customers to view this programming in their homes, over our cable systems, without artificial limits on the screens they can use to do so, and we are asking the court to confirm our view. With over 360,000 downloads of our TWCableTV™ app, it is clear that our customers welcome the convenience and flexibility our new app provides."
The app, which launched to customers on March 15, 2011, currently features 43 channels which are available to customers whose subscriptions include them. For a list of the channels currently available and updates on the app, please visit www.twcableuntangled.com, the company's blog.
About Time Warner Cable
Time Warner Cable is the second-largest cable operator in the U.S., with technologically advanced, well-clustered systems located mainly in five geographic areas - New York State (including New York City), the Carolinas, Ohio, southern California (including Los Angeles) and Texas. Time Warner Cable serves more than 14 million customers who subscribe to one or more of its video, high-speed data and voice services. Time Warner Cable Business Class offers a suite of phone, Internet, Ethernet and cable television services to businesses of all sizes. Time Warner Cable Media, the advertising arm of Time Warner Cable, offers national, regional and local companies innovative advertising solutions that are targeted and affordable. More information about the services of Time Warner Cable is available at www.timewarnercable.com, www.twcbc.com and www.twcmedia.com. Show full PR text "Viacom has always negotiated rights to distribute our content based on specific technologies and devices to ensure that the unique business issues, such as security, product quality and audience measurement, are properly addressed. Instead of addressing these issues, Time Warner Cable simply launched the product without a license to distribute our programming through an iPad app. They blatantly grabbed the rights that their competitors have negotiated in good faith to obtain. Time Warner Cable removed our programming from this service only when they were threatened with a lawsuit and, now, it is asking the Court to declare their brazen acts lawful. Regrettably, all of this has compelled us to file a suit of our own – as Time Warner Cable refuses to even discuss the business issues. With $5.2 billion in cash from operations last year, Time Warner Cable can certainly afford to provide our programming through this new broadband service without passing along any additional costs to its customers." |
| Toshiba intros Camileo P100 and B10 pocket camcorders, strays from tried-and-true pistol grip Posted: 07 Apr 2011 01:26 PM PDT  The seasons come and go, but Toshiba's line of Camileo pocket camcorders tend to look the same, with their pistol grips and flip-out screens. But now, Tosh is getting ready to ship two new models in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and one of them, at least, takes the company's design in a different direction. The B10 camcorder has a candy bar shape with a front-facing lens -- much like the Flip camcorders that kicked off the pocket cam craze in the first place. The B10 shoots at Full HD resolution, snaps 16 megapixel stills, has 16X digital zoom, and takes SDXC cards as large as 64GB. Prefer the ole' pistol grip? The P100 boasts the same specs and adds 8X optical zoom -- still a rarity in inexpensive pocket cams. Toshiba hasn't announced pricing yet, though the two will go on sale sometime in the second quarter. In the meantime, check out the press release for more deets. Show full PR text [4/5/2011]
Toshiba adds two action camcorders with powerful zoom options and content sharing function to its CAMILEO range
Neuss, Germany, 5th April 2010 – Toshiba Europe GmbH today unveiled two new camcorders with Full HD capability: the CAMILEO P100 and the CAMILEO B10. The CAMILEO B10 is targeted at active, sporty people; adventure travellers; the young and the young-at-heart. These consumers value a neat, robust camcorder that can be kept close at hand for spontaneous shots, but they don't want to compromise on picture quality. The CAMILEO P100, with an ergonomic 'pistol grip' and powerful optical zoom, is an ideal all-round companion for any occasion. Both new CAMILEO family members will be available during the second quarter of 2011 in Europe, Middle East and Africa.
Easy to use, easy to share
Both the CAMILEO B10 and the CAMILEO P100 feature Toshiba's graphical user interface with clearly arranged icons and an easily navigable, intuitive menu. Thanks to each camcorder's compatibility with flash memory cards supporting the 64 GB SDXC standard, users have enough space to store their videos and photos. Plus, the CAMILEO Upload Button allows easy uploading of videos to social networks to share videos with friends and family members. To stream photos and video clips directly to a large HD display, the camcorders offer an HDMI® Digital AV output.
CAMILEO P100: Advanced optical zoom and less editing
The CAMILEO P100 features an advanced zoom that allows greater detail to be captured of far-off scenes with an 8x magnification for brilliant Full HD videos. When switched into photo mode, the CAMILEO P100 offers a 5x optical zoom at 16 megapixels resolution using real time interpolation.
The CAMILEO P100 automatically connects scenes when the new Pause Button is pressed. This means that users can pause their recording and then continue later within the same clip.
CAMILEO B10 – captures adventures in Full HD
In addition to the easy video upload to social networks feature, the CAMILEO B10 also can serve as a web cam. Users can simply connect the camcorder via USB to a laptop with web access to stay in touch with friends and family members. With a weight of only 108g grams, the CAMILEO B10 is a very robust, pocketsize companion that can always be at hand for spontaneous shots. Video stabilisation -combined with the motion detection feature - gives sharp, crisp pictures even of action scenes. |
| BlackBerry Bold Touch prototype photographed, leaves a good impression Posted: 07 Apr 2011 12:51 PM PDT Are video tutorials and leaked presentations still not enough to convince you of the BlackBerry Bold Touch's existence? Well, if not, you can thank BGR for getting its real live hands on an honest-to-goodness prototype, which it says looks even better than the renders. The site also reports that the touchscreen is plenty responsive, which could help induce users to move their thumbs from the optical trackpad for navigation. It also reiterates a BlackBerry World launch, so if things stay on track we'll be getting our own hands on one in just about one month's time -- we know you can't wait. |
| B&N accepting Nook Color app submissions, because you can never have too many app stores Posted: 07 Apr 2011 12:16 PM PDT The upcoming firmware update for the Nook Color is shaping up to be a hefty one for the e-reader-turned-Android tablet. Barnes & Noble has now announced that it's officially opening up the device to developers, and will be taking app submissions through its developer site effective immediately. The Nook has long been one of the best bangs for your buck in the ever-expanding world of Android tablets, and all that's left now is Honeycomb -- and no, the hacked port doesn't count. |
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